Welcome Guest [Log In] [Register]
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:

Username:   Password:
Add Reply
May 2008
Topic Started: Mar 18 2010, 02:23 AM (3,620 Views)
golden_trillium

Admin
Author: Pinkie
Date: Tue May 27, 2008 2:03 pm
Mari


Mari was a special kind of person. She had been hurt, broken
and abused but she still did not think bad of people. She was
relieved to have realised who had hurt her because it left her
able to trust as she had done before. Mari didn't have it in
her to distrust all and sundry, to be suspicious and angry
towards people who had done her no harm. IT was that
innocence, it was that grace, that let her smile even though
the man who was climbing out of the muck beside her was not
one bit happy.

The dark haired girl gave a small squeek when he grabbed her
cloak, hauling her bodily out of the muck and setting her onto
her feet. She shook her head, splattering bits of muck against
the male and plastered her hand against her forehead, pushing
her hair out of her face so that she could see her rescuer.

"Thank you - thank you so much! I might have been in there
another half a day before I could have gotten out myself. Gods
- how very clumsy of me .." she murmured, turning to look at
the puddle over her shoulder. There was nothing for it, she
was going to have to go bathe again.

Ash
 
"Go."


Mari looked towards the man and grimaced at the muck that
stained him now too. She had the decency to blush and the
redness was visible as the rain started to wash away the worst
of the mud so far. Her wide brown eyes lifted to his and she
gave a sheepish smile, oblivious to how close she was to being
clocked on the head and drowned in a pool of water. Her long
eyelashes batted and she dipped her head a little, rubbing a
hand over her forearm slowly before shrugging into her cloak
deeper for warmth.

She took a step backwards -

"I am so very sorry for muddying you up, Sir. Can I .. buy you
lunch as an apology?!" Mari jumped on the offer with wide,
innocent eyes, taking another step back and thumbing in the
direction of the tavern, her other hand sliding to the pouch
at her waist which held the pouch of money that the Optio had
given her.









Catherine

Catherine knew her place.

She did not move from where he left her, remaining upon her
back, her clothes in bunched disarray. She tilted one leg
inwards a little, more to get the feeling back in her lower
leg than for propriety. Her breathing was still heavy, her
body still reeling from the pleasure as Tristan lay against
her side. The blonde held her breath as best she could,
casting a cautious green eye to the side, wondering why he
remained in such clsoe contact - when she saw him though, his
eyes focussed on the ceiling she knew that it was just
happenstance.

Unfortunately.

It was another of those tender moments that meant more to her
than the act of spreading her legs for his pleasure. Her smile
was wan, her eyes blinking slowly as she sighed.

Tristan sat up and Catherine thought that she might ask him
some questions - this was her time, she always thought, after
the deed was done when a man was biddable, she asked the
questions that would slake her thirst for knowledge. She knew
that Tristan was going to have to leave soon and she regretted
that - though a part of her knew that even if he had have
stayed around that she would not have gotten much out of him,
not and keep his custom.

Tristan
 
“You’re easy to please, Sorry for the rush,”


The whore smiled at Tristan, looking away with a blush to her
cheeks when he turned his head. He looked abashed which she
found strange. What was he abashed about? The scout donned his
trousers again and Catherine sat up on the bed, gently pushing
her skirt down and wrapping one arm about her bared breasts.
They felt tender after brushing against Tristan's tunic so
hard earlier but she made no mention or hint of it as she
pulled the material of her bodice up gently, her head tilted
to one side. Her blonde hair spilled down one shoulder, her
immaculately clean skin seemed to glow in the dingy setting of
the Knight's room.

"Not always.." she smiled in response to his earlier
statement, not taking offense at it. In fact she thought it
might be a hint of a compliment that she had been able to find
pleasure with him when it had been so rushed. Hearing the
scrape of coins on the table, Catherine's head lifted and she
looked at Tristan's face, down to the coins and felt that
familiar acidic taste rise in her throat when it came to this
part of her job. She balked.

Swallowing hard, her eyes darted downwards to her shaky
fingers on the laces of her bodice and she went to stand,
blushing furiously.

"You have to leave." she said, biting her bottom lip as her
fingers got caught in the laces of her bodice. She sighed,
eyebrows rising as she focussed on tightening them without
looking like a complete inept clutz. Gods but she despised
this side of her job. It was nothing to her to spread her legs
for a man, but accepting coin for it, asking for coin for it,
taking coin for it - it just made the whole affair seem sordid
and filthy. Dirty.

Suddenly Catherine could feel the mud about her ankles from
the rain. She could feel the mussed knots of her perfect hair,
the scent of lovemaking upon her skin instead of her usual
jasmine oils.

Getting her laces done, Catherine smiled at Tristan and
stepped forward, clearing her throat softly as she reached out
for the money, her fingers shaking and her entire posture
obviously hinting at discomfort. There was too much -- ! The
blonde left one coin on the table, sliding the rest into the
pouch at her waist where it clinked against the Carthage coin
she had intended for Gawain. It seemed an age ago that she had
been herself with the blonde Knight.

Catherine started to back away, smiling over her shoulder as
she turned to walk towards the door.

"Come back safely Tristan." she told him quietly, her eyes
dropping before she turned back to face front, the bile rising
in her throat.









Galahad

Galahad liked to think he was unreadable. As unreadable as the
other Knights when in fact he was as easy to read as a
children's book. He noticed the easing of tension in Gawain
and wondered why the hell the other Knight had been so wound
up in the first place. Normally Gawain was the calm one, the
collected one of them. Did he really look that bad that he had
his brother so worked up, Galahad thought.

Gawain
 
“I was afraid you had something awful to tell me, I
thought maybe Dag or Arthur… You looked like you’d just
gotten bad news.”


Galahad frowned, looking down at the ground, his upper lip
lifting upwards a fraction as he scuffed his boot against the
ground guiltily. His eyebrows were dipped down in a sharp 'v'
between his blue eyes and his fists were balled up tightly as
he shoved the image of Alina out of his head, the thoughts
that she had been kissing another man. He didn't want to deal
with that right now. Or ever. Maybe it hadn't been her?

Sighing, the youngest knight rubbed a hand against the back of
his neck sheepishly, the skin soaking wet.

"No, nothing to tell. Wonder how Arthur is though... " he
murmured sulkily, shifting his weight a little.

The silence stretched between them. Galahad glanced up at
Gawain, his earlier question regarding Brianna forgotten as he
wondered if he might ask Gawain's advice. Maybe he could get
him to ask Alina if she was seeing someone else. Or maybe him
and Gawain could corner the man she had been canoodling with
and grill him about what was going on between them... ?

Gawain
 
“I was on my way to the infirmary to ask about Dag, Come
along? Put your hood up, if you do. You look like a
drowned rat.”


The Sarmatian huffed out a resigned breath and nodded his
head. He didn't moan about Gawain mothering him at all, but
did as he was told, hitching his dark hood up over his curly
wet black hair. He felt like a drowned rat.

"'K." he sighed, trudging out into the rain behind Gawain,
shrugging into his cloak with a rueful glare towards the sky.
"Does it ever do anything but bloody rain on this damn
island?" he snarked, his teeth chattering with cold as he
trotted a few steps to catch up with Gawain's longer stride.
HE fell into pace besides the blonde knight and bowed his
head, watching where he put his feet. The ground had turned to
slush with all the rain melting the snow that had fallen.

"I hope Linnette isn't here..." he said gloomily, trotting up
the steps of the infirmary and pushing open the door.
Offline Profile Quote Post Goto Top
 
golden_trillium

Admin
Author: Lancelot
Date: Tue May 27, 2008 2:11 pm
Lancelot


Arthur
 
“Yes…and perhaps if that is enough to keep you safely
within these walls, then I shall continue to lie to
you."


You say you know me best of all? And you'd lie in order to
'protect' me?

A little bit more of Lancelot's shielded heart was exposed,
and he cursed inwardly. Not what he wanted - he wanted nothing
shared with this man right now - not anything. And yet in his
wavering fatigue, he found he turned his body completely to
listen to the rest of what Arthur had to say.

Thankfully, the Roman drank some of the watered wine; it would
hopefully bolster his strength a bit for the coming
conversation that Lancelot knew Arthur would allow the Optio
to run roughshod over.

Arthur
 
“Then we have an accord, my friend. Do not concern
yourself with Scipio. Malcus and Tristan will see to it
that my orders are carried out and Merlin dealt with
properly. We will speak later tonight once we have both
rested, hm?”


Lancelot sighed roughly and put his hand on Arthur's door
latch. "The only reason I concern myself with him is because
his behavior reflects on all of us. All of us, Arthur. And he
could use that to his advantage - especially with you injured
- and because of my ... anger, earlier." He laughed quietly.
"I am not so intellegent around you, sometimes."

He opened the door and stepped out into the (thankfully) empty
hall. "I shall check on Dagonet. And report to you this
evening, commander."

Without further ado, Lancelot shut the door and hustled back
toward his own quarters. The feeling in Arthur's rooms was
getting too close by far - and he needed to breathe.

He needed to think, and bathe, and get some food - and see to
his fellow knights. Then, he would rest.

Reaching his room, he rested against the inside of the door
for a moment, allowing his shoulders to droop and his body to
quiver briefly. He stumbled to his bed, and sat heavily on the
small thing, noticing that the chamber maid that took care of
the knight's measily accomodations had been through his area.
The peat and coal in the brazier were new, and his window was
cracked to allow fresh air to seep in. Lancelot kicked off his
boots and padded on silent feet to the niche that was under
the window, and vaulted as nimbly as he could into it. Resting
his chin in his hand, he shut his eyes and lay his forehead
against the cool glass.

He'd head to the stores in a bit, to look through Tor's
things. But first...he'd let his head stop spinning.

When he opened his eyes, they were wet and achey, and a swear
word slithered out of his mouth like a dangerous snake that no
one saw before it struck. Wiping at his eyes, he got down from
the window seat, and ripped off his dirty vest and Arthur's
tunic.

And I expect you to return this to me….without damage….later,
hm?

A small smile twisted Lancelot's angular mouth, and he folded
the garment carefully. He'd drop it off with the washing women
to make sure it was clean before Arthur got it back. Biting
his lip, he decided to cut his bandage free, and retrieved his
knife from his vest pocket. The wound itself, when exposed,
looked alright - nothing too serious, as he'd told Neeve.
She'd done an excellent job of patching it.

He splashed it with water, and when it didn't bleed again,
wrapped it tightly with a fresh bandage from the kit he kept
under his bed. Hesitating, he removed the pendant he always
wore from around his neck, and wound the cord about the metal
lion. Placing it carefully in with the bandages and few small
things of home he kept, he shut the lid of the box and placed
it back under his bed.

For some reason...he needed the weight of home off his chest
to think. He pressed his fingers to his lips, and then lay
them on the top of the box. Elaine, sister. You have no idea
how much you gave me when you gave me this.

Lancelot pulled on a clean but old tunic and threw his other
leather jacket on over his lean body. Toeing back on his
boots, he exited his room and strode out in the rainy
courtyard, headed toward the stores.
Offline Profile Quote Post Goto Top
 
golden_trillium

Admin
Author: Pinkie
Date: Tue May 27, 2008 2:18 pm
Kolya


Oh this was bad... this was very, very bad.

Kolya hadn't expected Alina to actually fall for him at all.
And he was telling himself that he hadn't fallen for her at
all, as per his plans. It was just sex. That was all. He
frowned, looking down at teh top of her head as she embraced
him. It seemed awkward at first but she slipped away before he
could make it more comfortable. The Sarmatian flinched and
half turned, gritting his teeth as he peered into the
nothingness of the grey rain streaking down from the heavens.

A strong, calloused hand lifted to his face and he brushed it
down from his forehead to his bearded chin, sloshing water
away from his troubled visage. He turned back to look at Alina
darting away and lifted his face to the sky.

"Fuck." he murmured, wiping the back of his hand against his
lips and stormed off back towards the fortress. HE needed to
sit and think. He wanted a fucking drink but he knew that if
he got drunk he'd end up finding Alina and screwing her
senseless because he now knew that he could. She had fallen
for him, somewhere along the way. And he had done nothing to
stop it. OF course he had not fallen for her - oh no no no .
That wasn't possible. He wasn't able to feel. Mari had said
so. So had Alina.

He couldn't feel for anyone but himself.

Could he?









Amadeus

Amadeus had it all thought out - very careful.

In all situations there was a victim, an antagonist and a
rescuer. In this instance he would be the victim, Lancelot
could be the antagonist and Arthur, dear Arthur, he could be
the rescuer. It would be complicated in more ways than one to
keep himself squirming on his belly in front of the Commander
but the Optio dare not anger him as he had done earlier. It
served no purpose whatsoever, excepting the fact that it no
doubt hurt Arthur physically due to whatever injury he was
hiding.

Returning to the Commander's door, Amadeus rapped twice and on
hearing a husky voice ordering him to enter, he pushed open
the door and stepped inside. Sharp grey eyes swung around the
room ensuring it was indeed void of Lancelot and any other
vermin that Castus kept near him. Satisfied, Amadeus drew a
wan smile to his thin lips and inclined his head.

"Commander - thank you for granting me this audience. These
are not matters I would like to unfold before anyone else but
yourself for they teeter on the boundaries of terrible
wrong-doings and misdeeds." the Optio intoned sincerely,
walking to the centre of the room and placing his hands behind
his back. He turned to look at Arthur, his sharp features
looking tense and his stance almost defensive. YEt there was a
level of strength there too. It looked like he was holding his
breath and indeed, after a short moment he did release a heavy
sigh, his posture slouched and he lifted a hand to his
forehead, rubbing his fingers against the tight skin wearily.

"I think you may have guessed what, or rather who, it is that
I wish to speak to you about, hm? We both know what happened
in this room earlier today with that particular Knight... we
both know that his actions are well and above the
classifcation of insubordination and only upon your kind,
thoughtful and quick intervention did it stop there.
Arthur..." Amadeus looked truly hurt that he was speaking
these words, truly worried about what might have been, what
might be in the future, "The penatly for assaulting a superior
officer is no less than death. Things... He cannot be allowed
to go so far. And .. " he tsked gently, frowning, sighing and
looking down, troubled, "It pains me to say this but... I feel
my position, status and reputation to be undermined when I am
dressed down in front of your Sarmatians whilst they are
defended and protected. I think it improper and dangerous for
it leads to such ill actions as seen in this very room not one
hour past..." Amadeus stopped, his eyebrows lifted, his
expression hurt, vulnerable, pleading.

All a wondrous act, of course.
Offline Profile Quote Post Goto Top
 
golden_trillium

Admin
Author: Elessars Girl
Date: Tue May 27, 2008 2:30 pm

Arthur


Lancelot
 
"The only reason I concern myself with him is because
his behavior reflects on all of us. All of us, Arthur.
And he could use that to his advantage - especially with
you injured - and because of my ... anger, earlier. I am
not so intelligent around you, sometimes. I shall check
on Dagonet. And report to you this evening, commander."


….and then he was gone leaving Arthur alone with his lingering
thoughts on what had just transpired between them. The
Commander had only shaken his head in both understanding and
agreement with Lancelot before the knight exited the room. But
what of the ache deep within Arthur’s chest? What of the need
to protect the Sarmatian? And what if Lancelot would be
justified in his concerns over Scipio? What if the Optio
attempted to use Lancelot’s rash behavior to his advantage?
Arthur finished his wine and while he sat the mug back down on
the small table, he sighed and pinched shut his eyes. Arthur
was exhausted….still quite weak from blood loss and the
infection he’d fought in the wound only yesterday. One more
meeting and then he would rest.

A knock came at the door and thus Arthur called out his
permission for whomever to enter….

The door opened and as expected, the Optio stepped into the
room and approached Arthur as the Roman stiffly rose up from a
chair at the table. Arthur desperately needed rest, but first
he would keep his word and hear out whatever Amadeus wished to
discuss. The Commander presumed Scipio had requested this
private audience to address some last minute concern over the
meeting with Merlin….but unfortunately that was not the case
as Arthur would quickly learn.

Amadeus
 
"Commander - thank you for granting me this audience.
These are not matters I would like to unfold before
anyone else but yourself for they teeter on the
boundaries of terrible wrong-doings and misdeeds."


“Oh?” Arthur managed without concealing his surprise and while
attempting to stretch to his full height, which only brought
on a grimace that forced him to place a hand over his
stitches. Terrible wrong-doings? Arthur’s brows stitched
together in concern as emerald eyes met Amadeus’ grey gaze.
The Optio’s impeccable dress and official manner served him
well….as Arthur found himself feeling somewhat ashamed of his
current weakened physical state and casual dress, and thus
more vulnerable than usual.

Amadeus
 
"I think you may have guessed what, or rather who, it is
that I wish to speak to you about, hm? We both know what
happened in this room earlier today with that particular
Knight...


Lancelot. God damn his impetuous actions. The Commander had
thought the incident averted….but at seeing the determination
and ‘pride’ in the Optio’s steel grey eyes…..Arthur’s gut
twisted into a knot at the thought of what Amadeus might
actually want in retribution.

Amadeus
 
"We both know that his actions are well and above the
classification of insubordination and only upon your
kind, thoughtful and quick intervention did it stop
there. Arthur..."


Arthur chewed at the insides of his mouth nearly tasting his
own blood; his emerald eyes flared with his displeasure
regardless of his calm exterior…anger threatened to well up
inside of him despite the fact that Scipio was well within his
right to name Lancelot an insubordinate. Arthur’s mind began
to churn with how best to deal with this…how best to explain
away Lancelot’s rash actions and how to keep the Sarmatian
from the noose if the Optio pressed the matter. And why now
when there was a much greater threat to the whole fortress?
Merlin could attack again at any moment.

Amadeus
 
"The penalty for assaulting a superior officer is no
less than death. Things... He cannot be allowed to go so
far. And .. it pains me to say this but... I feel my
position, status and reputation to be undermined when I
am dressed down in front of your Sarmatians whilst they
are defended and protected. I think it improper and
dangerous for it leads to such ill actions as seen in
this very room not one hour past..."


Arthur knew that each point and every point in Amadeus’ speech
were valid and well within the Optio’s rights as an officer in
the Roman army. However….however…Arthur knew very well how to
best manage his men…his Sarmatians in particular. And Rome’s
way was not always the best course. Arthur slightly lifted his
chin and exhaled before opening his mouth in retort. Amadeus
was clearly ambitious and that may work to Arthur’s
disadvantage here…but, God willing, he might yet be able to
salvage Lancelot from the wrath of the Roman army.

“Please accept my sincere apology, Optio Scipio,” Arthur
finally answered in an official tone and with a courteous nod
to the ‘proper’ Roman officer before him.

“Lancelot’s actions will not go unpunished. I give you my
word. And he will not threaten you again,” Arthur stated
convincingly as he held Amadeus’ gaze. The Commander had
already sternly reminded his lieutenant of the consequences
should Lancelot attempt such a foolish show of insubordination
again. And Arthur was confident that Lancelot had actually
listened to him this time. As for the actual
punishment….Arthur would see to that personally after Scipio
had rode out today.

“However, I would remind you that the Sarmatians are not of
the same military minds as Roman officers such as yourself,”
Arthur continued with a brief gesture towards Amadeus’ person
and withholding any sarcasm or accusation from his voice.

“Lancelot can be cantankerous, but he is the fiercest warrior
and most loyal of my men. I owe my life to him many times over
and he has served me well for many years, Amadeus,” Arthur
paused long enough to reach up and rub two fingers over his
mouth and carefully choose his next words. “I would ask that
you respect the bond between myself and my knights. And in
return, I will see to it that they give you the proper respect
that you are due as an officer of the Roman army…and their
superior officer. But do not question their loyalty and bond
to me….for it is strong and Lancelot only acted in protection
of that bond earlier,”
Offline Profile Quote Post Goto Top
 
golden_trillium

Admin
Author: sabor ice
Date: Tue May 27, 2008 2:36 pm
Ash & Milan


Mari
 
I am so very sorry for muddying you up, Sir. Can I... buy you lunch as an apology?!"


The rain and the muck did not phase Ash. He had lived in worse
conditions many-a-time before. This street urchin had evolved
into a bigger bother than he had anticipated. He watched her
with indifference in his narrowed eyes, perplexed over how she
was able to act so casually in the face of the death - she
really was a pathetic little loon, and he would've been doing
society a favor by drowning her. Not that he would ever be
happy to help out the Romans, but Ash remembered the extensive
pain in his side from when she had caused him to fall. She
could've been the death of him, and such a threat was not one
Ash took lightly.

His fingers itched anxiously by his side, as he took a step
back and warily lowered to reach for the knife in his boot, a
savage light to his face as he peered up at the young woman.
Suddenly something caught Ash's attention and he stood ram-rod
straight - heavy footsteps sloshing through the rain. His dark
eyes flashed about his surroundings until they fell upon a
pale-faced boy. There was a hint of uncertainty about his
features, although there was also a look of something else -
determination perhaps? Ash looked between the boy and the
girl, suddenly understanding - he was coming to the rescue of
his little whore.

The Woad snickered under his breath as the boy watched him
fire-eyed and defensively, hovering nearby and circling closer
to the girl. The boy seemed as impeccably incapable of
standing up for his whore as his whore was of shutting the
fuck up. It would've been far too easy for Ash to befall them
both, but surely someone would bound to notice two children's
corpses littering the ground - it was too risky and clearly
not worth the effort on his part. They were of no concern to
him.

Milan's jaw hardened, his teeth clenched so tightly they were
bound to break soon, as he watched the mysterious dark
stranger tote himself away. His footsteps were hasty then as
he went to Mari's side, his hand darting out for her elbow and
pulling her close to him. His expression was not cross as he
peered down at her dirty face, just a mixture of worry and
inquisitiveness. His blue eyes warily glanced back in the
direction of the stranger, his brow softening a bit as he
looked back to Mari again. His troubled gaze seemed to
question what she was doing. A lump formed in his throat at
the thought of what might've happened to her again had he not
been there.
Offline Profile Quote Post Goto Top
 
golden_trillium

Admin
Author: Pinkie
Date: Tue May 27, 2008 2:42 pm
Amadeus


Arthur's reaction to the mention of Lancelot was...
interesting. It was a weakness - Amadeus wondered if the
Commander knew that. He wondered if Arthur realised that
anyone could come along and destroy Arthur CAstus by
annihilating his First Knight. The weak link. The Achille's
heel of this entire fortress was that stubborn, stiff-necked,
audacious, hot-headed, dog of a Sarmatian, Lancelot! It was
laughable, at least it would be if it wasn't so bloody
serious.

Arthur
 
“Please accept my sincere apology, Optio Scipio,
Lancelot’s actions will not go unpunished. I give you my
word. And he will not threaten you again,”


So far so good..

Amadeus tensed his sharp jaw and nodded his head curtly at
Arthur's apology. He managed to still look offended, wronged.
Righteous. That was one thing that Amadeus did well -
righteousness. It may have had something to do with his
honourable lineage - from the great Scipio's of the battle of
Carthage. Who else in this laughable unit could possibly claim
the same? Who else could stand upright and declare that their
blood was too good to be spilled on this land? Amadeus would
die for Britain, die for Badon, but not without a fight, an
honourable fight amongst honourable men.

Not damn Sarmatian beasts.

However, the Optio was not entirely assuaged by Arthur's
convincing apology. He took a deep breath and dropped his chin
a fraction, looking at the commander with pursed lips as he
continued.

Arthur
 
“However, I would remind you that the Sarmatians are not
of the same military minds as Roman officers such as
yourself, Lancelot can be cantankerous, but he is the
fiercest warrior and most loyal of my men. I owe my life
to him many times over and he has served me well for
many years, Amadeus, I would ask that you respect the
bond between myself and my knights. And in return, I
will see to it that they give you the proper respect
that you are due as an officer of the Roman army…and
their superior officer. But do not question their
loyalty and bond to me….for it is strong and Lancelot
only acted in protection of that bond earlier,”


Oh very nicely put!

Very nicely phrased so that Amadeus, again, was made out to be
in the wrong, villified, and Lancelot was glorified! Amadeus'
grey eyes flashed but he quickly ducked his head, looking at
the ground whilst ARthur continued about bonds and such things
that should have meant nothing to a Roman Commander worth his
salt.

The Sarmatians should have followed orders like any other
soldier in the Legion. Why did they receive special treatment
just because they were Arthur's pets? Why could they get away
with all that they did just because they were ... they were ..
they were bloody slaves for the love of God!

"I would not dream of questionning their bond or loyalty to
you, Commander, I am... however, concerned that there is an
aggressive vendetta against that which is wholesome and Roman
amongst the Sarmatians. I do not doubt their loyalty to you,
but I cannot help but question it to the Empire. As Rome's
officially sanctioned second in Command, I am morbidly
concerned that my position here amongst all the soldiers is
undermined by the attitude and near insubordination of
Lancelot." the Optio said with a wary lift to his eyebrows, a
pleading cast to his eyes for understanding. He grimaced,
sucking air in between his teeth.

"With that said, might I enquire as to how you intend to
punish Lancelot for his actions earlier? I would think it
prudent that I be there since I was the one offended... " the
man said as naturally as a leaf is green.
Offline Profile Quote Post Goto Top
 
golden_trillium

Admin
Author: golden_trillium
Date: Tue May 27, 2008 2:54 pm
Tristan


Catherine
 
"Not always...you have to leave. Come back safely,
Tristan."


She dropped her eyes on those words, seeming to shy away from
him a bit; in fact, her whole demeanor had become
uncomfortable, hesitant, ever since she had gone to pick up
the coins. And she had left one of them on the table, which
didn't sit will with Tristan at all. He threw in a little
extra for a reason- as a way of avoiding entanglements. But
entangled was just what he was beginning to feel right now,
and it wasn't a happy feeling. Her refusal of that last coin,
the hint of affection behind her wish for his safety, more
sincere than might have been expected of a virtual stranger,
her slim figure and bright blonde hair...she reminded him of
Einin, he thought with a sudden jolt that was almost a
physical sensation. She reminded him of Einin, and of how he
had ruined things with her by his own foolish actions. Or
maybe things had always been ruined. He wasn't the type of man
a woman ought to want- he hadn't been capable of love for a
very long time.

And now she was turning to go- without taking that last coin.
At the thought, however brief, of love, Tristan's eyes flicked
over to his bed, to the floor beneath it, to where, unseen by
either of them, Percival's things sat in a small box, the last
pieces of him, the pieces that Tristan could not bear even for
Einin to disturb. They would stay there as long as Tristan
lived- but this damn coin wouldn't. Shaking off hesitation,
Tristan took a smooth step towards Catherine as she turned
away from him, palming the coin surreptitiously as he did so-
with any luck she would not even know it was in his hand.

"So far I've been lucky," he remarked in a low murmur, in
response to her well-wishes. He put his hands on her waist-
she wasn't quite as small as Einin had been, of course- and
ducked his head to her neck again, just resting his lips
there, as if his only reason for doing that was because he
wanted this last embrace before she left. As he held her,
though, one long, slender hand was discreetly slipping the
coin into her pouch- as slowly as he could, so that it did not
even make a clink.

"Don't get too wet," he added gruffly, reaching out and
putting up her hood for her as he stepped away. He was not
even sure himself where that almost-affectionate gesture had
come from. From some pie-in-the-sky fantasy of Einin, maybe,
and one which he should be careful to forget all about. She
was gone, and better off that way.
Offline Profile Quote Post Goto Top
 
golden_trillium

Admin
Author: linnet
Date: Tue May 27, 2008 8:21 pm

Gawain and Mother Lavinia


Galahad
 
"'K Does it ever do anything but bloody rain on this
damn island?"


Gawain forced out a short breath of exasperation and
amusement. He would have bet every coin he had that they
wouldn’t get from the doorway to the infirmary before Galahad
complained about something. And putting money on the complaint
being about the weather would have been too easy. If there was
anything to gripe about, Galahad couldn’t let it pass. But
Gawain felt there was an edge right now to Galahad’s moaning
that wasn’t usually there. The weather was taking the brunt
for whatever really was bothering the younger knight.

Galahad
 
"I hope Linnette isn't here..."


As he walked through the door that Galahad held open, Gawain
frowned at the comment about Linnette. “Why?’ he asked,
stopping just inside the door to look at Galahad. It had
seemed like a strange, out of nowhere, statement. “We’ll wait
here to ask someone about Dag.” Gawain didn’t know where in
the infirmary Dag was, and he didn’t want to go wandering
around looking for him, disturbing others’ privacy. So he
stood near the door, dripping onto the wooden floorboards,
hoping for a nurse to come by.

Spotting trouble, Lavinia made a bee line for the two wet
knights that had just walked in. “You’re too late,” she said,
flicking her hands at them as if to shoo them out like stray
dogs. “I broke the party up earlier, Bors drank all the
spirits, and he and Dagonet are resting – not to be disturbed
for the time being.” The nun looked Gawain up and down. “I
told you this morning to come back in a week for your arm.
It’s been five hours. That’s not a week.”

Gawain looked at Galahad and shrugged his shoulders. He
shifted his gaze to the old woman and tried to give her his
most irresistible smile. “Take it easy, Lavinia. We just
wanted to know how Dagonet is doing.” He had no idea what she
meant about Bors and spirits.

“He’ll recover eventually if he’s allowed to build up his
strength,” she replied, almost civilly. Then she turned her
attention from Gawain to Galahad. “And you. I thought Alina
was ‘taking care’ of you. So where is she? We’re swamped here,
and I could use her. Please tell the free spirit that if she
wants to continue earning a living as a healer, showing up for
work is highly recommended.”
Offline Profile Quote Post Goto Top
 
golden_trillium

Admin
Author: lady ione
Date: Tue May 27, 2008 9:26 pm
Vanora


Vanora really didn't know what else to say to the grief
stricken young woman, so she thought it best to offer her
company to Linette and just be there. Deep down, she wished
that she could do more for Linnette, but there was no way to
heal sorrow. Her motherly instincts still kicked in though,
and the only other thing she could think of that usually
offered comfort to her children, though Linnette was not one,
was to just hold them close and let them cry...

Linnette
 
“I suppose so,”


Vanora reached into her apron pocket and pulled out the wages
she handed out at the end of the day. She had Thorn's pay with
her, and knew that if she was in Linnette's place, every bit
of coin would help. Taking out some coins, Vanora lay them on
the table in front of Linnette, "Please, accept this as an
advancement on your pay to help out with food and such..."
Vanora gave her a slight smile. She had wanted to give
Linnette a raise for a while now, and now seemed like a good
time. She placed the pouch back in her apron, and stood from
where she sat. Linnette had lowered her head and was looking
at her bandaged hand, then at the other one, and arranged the
handkerchief over the scratches as if padding it to make
writing easier...

Linnette
 
“Er…can I keep this for a bit? I’ll give it back to you
when I’m finished here,”


"You can keep it as long as you need it, dear, " Vanora
smiled. She had held up very well, but inside she felt like
weeping for Linnette and sharing in her grief. Surely, the
gods would bless Linnette with someone else, but now was a
time for grieving. "There is no need to return it. There are
lots more where that came from." Vanora turned to the door,
then looked back at Linnette, then moved over the the young
owman and bent over to give Linnette a comforting hug. She had
done all she could, and this always seemed to help...

"I just wish there was more I could do."
Offline Profile Quote Post Goto Top
 
golden_trillium

Admin
Author: sabor ice
Date: Tue May 27, 2008 10:39 pm
Cáel


Good heavens, what a catastrophe Badon Hill was in appearance!
Certainly Cáel had expected a much more humble abode than
Eburacum, but this...this was border-lining unlivable. Surely
he would be donned a savior, and be set within the Gods good
graces forevermore just for rescuing Gabriel's children from
such a dismal fate! They would thrive back at Eburacum, live
fuller and more fruitful lives, and all thanks to him! Of
course, the Goth could never truly know this for certain -
after he sold them, they'd no longer be his concern - but
regret he had never taken a liking to. His lack of conscience
did not allow it.

"Well, hello there!" Cáel chirped cheerfully, half-lidded eyes
meeting that of a sickly looking stable hand.

He swung down from the saddle and began tugging at the ties
that held his belongings in place as the boy dutifully stepped
forward to take charge of the horse. The Goth threw the bags
over one shoulder after securing his sword at his waist. The
weapon was such a trifle, dreadfully heavy thing, but certain
precautions were necessary. He turned back toward the lad, who
immediately averted his curious gaze. Cáel looked on with a
crooked smile, digging his hand into a pocket and retrieving
two coins.

"Be a good lad and look after my horse, won't you? There'll be
more where this came from," the Goth said, with a wink. He
slipped the money into the boy's hand as he passed him, not
pausing to admire the gratefulness that flooded the child's
features over his unconditional generosity.

Cáel whistled a merry tune whilst strolling back out into the
rain. He wanted to take care of this business venture as soon
as possible, of course, but he saw no reason to hurry. He was
weary from traveling, and nothing sounded more inviting to him
at the moment than a hot meal - and with any luck, some
handsome company.
Offline Profile Quote Post Goto Top
 
golden_trillium

Admin
Author: golden_trillium
Date: Wed May 28, 2008 6:29 am
Linnette


Vanora
 
"Please, accept this as an advancement on your pay to
help out with food and such...you can keep it as long as
you need it, dear. There is no need to return it. There
are lots more where that came from. I just wish there
was more I could do."


"Thanks." Linnette twisted in her chair to accept Vanora's
hug, then half-turned and gestured to the coins Vanora had set
on the desk with one hand. "I...I don't really need
this...money's not a problem, just so you know." She held
Vanora's gaze and shrugged with a good approximation of
nonchalance as they broke the embrace. It was true- she had
plenty of money. She made good wages and didn't spend
extravagantly, not to mention she was half-owner of the Villa
Rosarum if it came down to that. No, basic material needs were
not an issue for her- thank God. Money was about the last
thing she was worrying about right now, and she didn't want
anyone to think that she was in need of monetary charity- any
more than she was in need of someone to do her work for her.
Matter-of-factly, she pushed the coins Vanora had given her a
bit closer to the other woman, towards the edge of the table,
giving her a silent opportunity to take them back if she
wanted. Not that Linnette expected her to- but she wasn't
going to be seen just pocketing them, either. If Vanora left
them, she would put them away once the other woman had left.
They weren't exactly charity- just an advance, as Vanora had
said, and Linnette's bookkeeping would scrupulously reflect
that.

"But I appreciate it," she added with a small smile, leaning
forward and adjusting the pen in her hand as she prepared to
write. Her eyes were dry for the moment, and if she could just
get this done all in one burst, so she didn't have to sit here
longer than she had to, it would be a blessing- a load off her
mind, before she turned to the even more exhausting task of
moving rooms.
Offline Profile Quote Post Goto Top
 
golden_trillium

Admin
Author: Elessars Girl
Date: Wed May 28, 2008 7:09 am

Arthur


Amadeus appeared to at least accept Arthur’s apology on behalf
of Lancelot…yet…yet…the impeccably dressed Optio still gave
off the impression of one offended; as if he yet had more to
say on the matter. The Commander was unmoved simply due to the
fact that he’d been defending his Sarmatians for years….and
Arthur was Scipio’s superior officer. The Optio would accept
the Commander’s final word on the matter. End of story.
Besides, Lancelot had not been successful in his intentions
earlier….no doubt a blade and bloodshed if Arthur had not
intervened.

Amadeus
 
"I would not dream of questioning their bond or loyalty
to you, Commander, I am... however, concerned that there
is an aggressive vendetta against that which is
wholesome and Roman amongst the Sarmatians. I do not
doubt their loyalty to you, but I cannot help but
question it to the Empire. As Rome's officially
sanctioned second in Command, I am morbidly concerned
that my position here amongst all the soldiers is
undermined by the attitude and near insubordination of
Lancelot."


During Amadeus’ little speech on attitudes and loyalty, an
outwardly patient Arthur slightly arched his brows and gave
the impression of sincere interest. He carefully folded his
arms over his chest; expression neutral with the typical
façade that Arthur wore so well in front of almost everyone.
Yet, one thing began to stand out in Arthur’s mind: this man
spoke with the tongue of a politician more than that of any
typical officer in the Roman army. And Lancelot’s words of
warning suddenly jerked into Arthur’s mind: Arthur, he is not
to be trusted. I can feel it. And Scipio seemed to harp on the
same point that Lancelot could not see beyond: ‘Officially
sanctioned second.’

Amadeus
 
"With that said, might I enquire as to how you intend to
punish Lancelot for his actions earlier? I would think
it prudent that I be there since I was the one
offended... "


Prudent? Arthur inwardly scoffed while his index finger tapped
twice on his forearm. Was the Optio implying that he did not
trust the Commander would carry out a punishment? Artorius
Castus was nothing if not a man of his word. Anger surfaced
again despite Arthur’s weakened condition and the discomfort
still vibrating out from his stitched up wound. He imperiously
lifted his chin and set his jaw; emerald eyes once again
shimmering with the ferocity of his will and spirit.

“You need not concern yourself with Lancelot’s punishment. You
will ride out to face Merlin as I have instructed without
further delay. That is most imperative in order to avoid
further attacks and bloodshed and should be foremost in your
thoughts, Optio Scipio,” Arthur stated in a tone that would
brook no argument and a voice with the timber of fur sheathed
iron. His posture that every bit ‘Roman Commander’ despite the
fact that his body was near collapse from lack of nourishment
and proper rest. But Arthur’s sheer determination to fulfill
his duty and see to the safety of the fortress drove him
now….and his anger at supposedly being challenged in his
decision making by one of his officers who obviously knew him
not.

Arthur paused long enough to be sure Amadeus remembered his
place here.

“Have no further concerns on the matter of Lancelot’s
punishment. I do not allow insubordination of any kind from
any man. I will deal with him appropriately. And have no fear,
Amadeus. My faith in God and my allegiance to Rome are of
highest priority….my men understand and respect that as
conscripts in the Emperor’s army,” Arthur continued, intense
emerald eyes fixed on the prudent grey ones of Scipio.

“I have entrusted you with a most urgent and important
task….that is all you need be focused on,” Arthur added with a
slight dip of his chin and a deceptive flicker of trust in his
green eyes. Amadeus had yet to prove himself to Arthur, but
the Commander chose to have faith in the man’s abilities. But
as Lancelot so often reminded him, Arthur trusted too easily
too often. Would he regret sending this obviously ambitious
Roman officer to make treaty with the Woad leader? Emerald
eyes slightly narrowed at Amadeus as Arthur did not bother to
hide how he closely regarded the man….he searched Scipio’s
angular features for some indication of the man’s metal. This
shrewd tactic of assessment was often unnerving to lesser
men....Arthur Castus was after all an imposing figure with his
tall broad stature and piercing emerald eyes.
Offline Profile Quote Post Goto Top
 
golden_trillium

Admin
Author: Unicorn
Date: Wed May 28, 2008 9:03 am
Dagonet


Dagonet was looking into his brother's eyes waiting for what
he was going to say next. There weren't any perfect words that
would wave his pain away... there was nothing more to say to
diminish his sorrow. Nothing could be done to him... He felt
so bad and lost. He was glad that he had not been left on the
battlefield, but instead taken back here... but still there
was strong bulge of guilt inside his heart... strong bulge of
want to be dead also. He could not help anybody right now and
was holding to life with all his streanghts not knowing why.
Linnette was alone now and he could not go to her to help or
to say something more than that he was sorry.

Bors
 
"We carry on fighting Dag, that's what you do. We carry
on fighting the bastard Woads and in five years we go
home with our heads held high, knowing we've done our
bit for the bastard Romans. Then..."


Dagonet's thoughts were broken by Bors's voice... Fighting...
He was fighting his whole life... he could not remember a day
without a fight in his life, fight on the outside with blood
and pain and fight inside his heart. He was constantly
fighting... He was tired. He was tired of being always strong
and steady.

Five years... is a long time. A very long time here.

And Dagonet was not proud right now... He lost his children,
one because of Saoirse's actions... or rather her haritage and
the decision she made for both of them, one he lost because of
himself. He should be more carefull there! How many times in
his life he will say this in his mind? How many years have to
pass to stop living in guilt?

The tall knight bowed his head and shook it slightly. As Bors
ended, or rather just stoped talking, Dagonet looked back at
him and frowned slightly.

"And then what, Bors?" he asked. He sighed and allowed himself
to briefly closed his eyes, his exhaustion and pain
overburding him in the moment, what was probably plainly
visible on his face. "I am tired, friend. I'm tired of
fighting... I don't know how long I can go on. I am so tired
of this blood, killing and.... death."
Offline Profile Quote Post Goto Top
 
golden_trillium

Admin
Author: SarmatianKnight
Date: Wed May 28, 2008 12:32 pm

Lucius


When Lucius recognised the expression in her eyes he hoped
indeed that he would never ever be the reason for Saoirse to
be really angry and mad. No doubt that woman was able to kick.
Hard. And of course she had to think that he was odd: entering
the room and telling her more or less twice that she was
gorgeous while they did not know each other. If a man would
have told his younger sister back then in Venice such a thing
he would have risked to be hit himself although Lucius was no
one who was looking for a fight. But sometimes stepping in was
necessary. At least his correction about her look was not
answered with a hit. Lucius took that as a good sign as good
as the more or less wry amusement he heard in her snort.

She looked at him and tried to... what? Read him? See
something? Maybe. Her reaction told him that she was either
not happy with the result or unable to get any result at all.
Again, he could not tell for sure. He ignored he pleading look
and did not let go of her hand to keep her from running. It
would have been an action without thinking and that was
certainly never a good thing to do. As difficult as it was:
first thinking, then doing. And then the look was back: the
glaring and the threatening. Lucius heard the hiss that left
her lips when she sat back dowwn on the ground next to him but
misunderstood it as he took it as unhappiness and
dissatisfaction with the whole situation. He had no idea that
she was injured herself. When she sat there the Roman released
her wrist, slowly and ready to grasp it again if she tried to
run. His fingers still rested on her arm. But beside trying to
fulfill Derfel's request and find the best way for the sad
woman sitting next to him, he also tried not to be hit or
bitten or anything similar. He was quite sure that she left
the running behind when he leaned her head against back
against the wall and when she withdrew her hand he let her do
so. He saw her rubbing her wrist and he hoped that his grip
had not been too tight.

Saoirse
 
"I need a while longer t'gather me senses. When I look a
li'l less terrible - "


He could not help but smile slightly. The glaring was still
there but this time it looked different to him and so he dared
to add: ... which will take a while." Again, he did not mean
to offend her but he had the feeling that she was a woman who
could deal with such a comment. The confirmation followed
immediatly:

Saoirse
 
"He'd only blame himself if he saw me like this. Why's
he insist on callin' me back t'him? I swear he's tryin'
t'destroy his sanity by keepin' me in his bed..."


Now this time it was up to Lucius to give her a more than
surprised look from beneath a raised eyebrow. Her in his bed?!
There was just one thing these words could mean where he was
coming from. "This is an infirmary, good gracious!" He sounded
seriously shocked.

Saoirse
 
"Who're you anyways? How'd ye know Dagonet? Or Derfel
fer tha' matter?"


It took a few seconds to get that certain image out of his
mind again before he was able to answer. "Lucius Cassius
Aquila." And as always it was pure reflex that let him list
his full name. It was not easy to break with old traditions
and education. "Lucius." he corrected because for the woman
next to him this information was surely enough - and not
helping anyway. "Solder under Captain Barbattus' command. I
met Derfel in the chapel and he told me what happened. So,
here we are." Lucius decided to keep the story as short as
possible. It was not important if he had helped Derfel to get
his wife back into their rooms or why he had agreed to visit a
man he did not even know at all or why he had offered to find
a woman he must not care about or why exactly he was sitting
here with her and telling her twice that she was gorgeous. He
was a soldier, he met Derfel, he was here. End of story.
Lucius had learned through the last years that keeping stories
short was a huge advantage at times. Not lying, just keeping
things short. "Take the time you need. You want me to get
anything for you?" And chaning the subject also helped always
a lot to get away from the short stories.
Offline Profile Quote Post Goto Top
 
golden_trillium

Admin
Author: Lancelot
Date: Wed May 28, 2008 5:51 pm

Lancelot


The rain was pissing down; Lancelot cursed at the sky and
hurried on toward his goal. He passed by the infirmary, noting
Galahad and Gawain entering, but he was too far away to say
anything to them. He would keep his promise, however, and see
to Dagonet. The large man had always been kind to Lancelot -
and despite Dagonet's constant calmness and ease of demeanor
(which of course Lancelot could not understand), the first
knight respected the older man. Begrudgingly, perhaps, but he
still cared about what happened to him.

The loss of a son was not easy - or at least Lancelot could
only wager.

Entering the storage area - he considered himself lucky he
didn't run into the Woad girl or Malcus looking for clothing -
he cocked an eyebrow at the legionary on duty, who looked as
bored as Lancelot was sure he was.

"Soldier - I need to access some of my kinsmen's things. Where
are the trunks stored that house the things that belonged to
the dead?"

A bit morbid and to the point, but Lancelot didn't care. He
was swaying from exhaustion, although he hid it well, and his
sharp features were pinched and feral looking with his mood.

...and perhaps if that is enough to keep you safely within
these walls, then I shall continue to lie to you.

Lying. Lying to protect him. Lancelot bit his lip and followed
the bored soldier to the very back of the dusty stores, where
the things from the dead conscripts were kept. In typical
fashion, some of it was gone - the Roman army definitely
recycled things - but after the legionary had returned to his
desk, Lancelot easily found Tor's trunk and located two pairs
of leathers that were in decent shape. He held them up to his
body, and nodded, thinking that they would do fine. Something
else caught his eye, and he bent over the trunk. A fine dagger
someone - another Sarmatian, no doubt - had hidden under the
clothing. Lancelot stood for a moment, holding the blade in
its buttery soft sheath, the leathers thrown over his
shoulder, and contemplated taking the thing. After a moment,
he cocked his head and spoke aloud, tone serious and words
definitely meant. "My brother, I will honor this gift by
killing as many Woads as I can with your steel. I thank you
for the loan." He laughed and saluted the trunk sloppily,
although he didn't notice it for his exhaustion.

Closing the wooden box, Lancelot left the stores area, the
"guard" not even noticing him doing so. He stood under the
eaves of the building, holding off the rain as long as he
could. Where was he bound, other than to check on his fellow
knights?

Do not concern yourself with Scipio. Malcus and Tristan will
see to it that my orders are carried out and Merlin dealt with
properly. We will speak later tonight once we have both
rested, hm?

Do not concern yourself. Get some rest, useless bastard. First
knight - couldn't even see to keeping your own commander from
being injured. Your own commander.

Your own friend, the only one. The only true one who hadn't
grown up with you from birth - Lancelot did love his fellows,
but - this was different. Somehow, somewhere the gods thought
it would be funny for him to have a Roman who loved him as
much as any person ever had.

And yet that Roman lied to him to protect him. After so many
years, so many battles - Arthur had closed himself from
Lancelot, after that night - after their -

"Fuck."

Was it really all Lancelot's fault? Was it not Arthur that had
pushed him from the room, not wanting to touch him or to look
at him again? Had told Lancelot to find another whore? Arthur
was not a whore. He was - Lancelot had had to possess him. No
other Roman man would ever dominate the Sarmatian again - but
this Roman man - he wouldn't use his body as a weapon, unlike
some.

Unlike those that had -

"Fuck this!"

The wall next to his fist caught the brunt of his blow, and
Lancelot's knuckles split and bled. He shook out his trembling
fingers, and, biting his tongue so hard it also bled, forced
his anger and hated emotion away from his brain. He imagined
his thoughts and feelings like a bird - a big, ugly carrion
bird that ate the remains of what other animals wouldn't
touch. Only leftovers and scraps - and only dirty, rotten meat
filled the world with its taste - he imagined himself, clean
and uninjured, strong, his thighs gripping his horse
(Diabolus, he reminded himself) as his bow brought down as
many carrion birds as he could find.

No more thoughts - no more feelings - just duty, and killing,
and finally, his own freedom, be it a freedom filled with the
dirt of the grave or with the wide open sky of his homeland.

He didn't care which.

He reached around to his back, to slide the new dagger - thank
you, Tor - into a small pocket in the special sheaths he had
for his double blades.

Which weren't there.

"Pissing - motherfucking - what in the great gods teeth!" He
turned in a circle, looking ridiculously like a dog trying to
find a warm spot at the hearth for the evening. And then he
remembered.

He could see his swords, leaning in the corner of Arthur's
rooms, against Excalibur.

"Gods DAMN IT."

In his idiotic haste to be away from Arthur, he had forgotten
his own weapons. The things that kept him alive, kept him at
Arthur's side, kept the might of the Empire off his back.

Oh, Lancelot. You great fool.

He prayed to whomever was listening - funny, that - that
Scipio was gone, and began the wet walk back to Arthur's
quarters.
Offline Profile Quote Post Goto Top
 
ZetaBoards - Free Forum Hosting
Enjoy forums? Start your own community for free.
Learn More · Register Now
Go to Next Page
« Previous Topic · Vincit Omnia Veritas · Next Topic »
Add Reply

Christmas Theme made by Pandorasaurus of Zathyus Network Resources and Graphic Force.