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August 2008
Topic Started: Apr 12 2010, 09:09 PM (2,841 Views)
golden_trillium

Admin
Author: LadyCastus
Date: Tue Aug 05, 2008 3:22 pm
Titrus


Arthur
 
“What is it, Titrus? And no need for apologies…go on,”


The Commander stood even taller and straighter now that Titrus
had his attention. The lieutenant stood at 'parade rest' and
squared his shoulders, slightly bending his knees to keep the
circulation flowing through his legs.

"Commander," Titrus began, clearing his throat...just the
facts.

"I regret to inform you that fortress security was breached
earlier. The side gate was compromised - broken into - and it
appears a rescue party entered. We don't know how many sir,"
he paused only to suck in more breath, trying desperately not
to look down at his feet. He felt about an inch tall and his
mouth went dry.

"We know they were woads, sir, because they penetrated the
dungeons and rescued the younger woad girl. A guard was
killed, sir," he added softly. His nose itched.

Titrus only paused for a second, then he hurried to get all of
the bad news out as though he was purging himself of some vile
infection. "We have conducted a door-to-door search,
Commander, and believe there is no longer a threat. But we
could not find the escapee. The gate has been secured again
and the guard's family has been notified."

Having finished his full report, Titrus stood back at
attention, waiting for Arthur to react. The lieutenant had
never even really been that close to Commander Castus before
and therefore had no idea what to expect. Before Arthur could
speak, Titrus said,

"One more thing sir," remembering,

when there was a knock at the door.
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golden_trillium

Admin
Author: lady ione
Date: Tue Aug 05, 2008 8:33 pm
Brendyn


The sun was setting, and he had to be at the wall on time he
felt. When he ordered, Brendyn only ordered a few slices of
bread and a bowl of stew. No drinking for him tonight. He
wanted to be sober, and alert. His eyes watched the wench
saunter off toward the kitchen with his order, then they moved
to his hands which were claped tightly in front of him. The
young soldier had not made the best impression so far at the
fort, save for Quintus's compliment upon surveying the damaged
gate through which the woad or woads had escaped. Brendyn had
felt proud at that moment...

"Here you go, sir," the wench set the bowl and the bread in
front of him. He thanked her in a soft voice, almost wishing
that he didn't have to work. But there were wenches aplenty,
and he felt his duties came first. There was time for play
later...like whenever he completed his training, or had
learned more than he had with Antonius. He took a bite of the
warm stew, then took the bread and lay it in the bowl so that
he could eat both at once.

He continued to think.

Think of how different people were here, than at Aesica.

More disciplined? Was that what he saw in these men?

It was something he did not see in himself. Antonius, he felt,
had not taught him bad fighting skills, and battle techniques,
but the mindset: the belief that to hate the enemy made them
easier to kill. It was this mind set that came out in the
infirmary earlier. He did not believe the little woad and her
older counterpart should have been allowed treatment nor
comfort. They had been given too much free rein, and he had
felt that he had to give his opinion. One that Antonius would
have been proud of. Obviously, that mindset didn't work here.

He finished his stew, and pushed the bowl aside. Brendyn
raised his eyes to look out at the dimming light of day. He
reached into his leather coin pouch and lay three coins on the
table for the food, then picked up his helmet, making ready to
leave....
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golden_trillium

Admin
Author: linnet
Date: Tue Aug 05, 2008 8:42 pm

Juna


Practicing her healing arts on the victims of Merlin’s
divinely decreed wars had always been exactly that for Juna –
practicing. Each punctured, torn, or broken body was a chance
to learn which methods and mixtures worked best. The wounded
were experimental subjects in her eyes, rather than unique
souls. It wasn’t that she didn’t understand their suffering
and pain. She did, all too well. But she detached herself from
it in order to defeat it. Each injury she treated taught her
something, gave her new insights into how the body reacted to
trauma, new ideas for finding and making medications. She
viewed every patient as a challenge, and used all the skill
and knowledge she had to win the challenge, to save the life,
to ease the pain. When the patient died, she felt defeated.
She didn’t mourn the lost life, a life she’d never been close
to. Instead she took what she had learned and labored with
steeled determination to beat death the next time such a case
happened.

As Juna worked to clean the foreign matter from Ash’s wound,
she recognized that she was feeling different. She cared if
Ash lived or died because of who he was, not just because he
was a challenge. If he died it would be more than a failure;
it would be a loss. Merlin would lose a fine, brave and loyal
warrior. Juna would lose someone she admired and respected.
And Eala would lose the only person she had left. The girl’s
every movement and expression showed the fear she was feeling
for Ash’s condition. Juna continued to mask any of her own
apprehension for Eala’s sake.

The healer couldn’t dwell on her feelings, however. The hole
in Ash’s side had become badly infected, and he was showing
signs that the infection was spreading. The young man seemed
to be weakening. He allowed Juna to quietly clean the wound
and get the bleeding under control. When Juna reached toward
her supplies for a potion that would fight the infection, Eala
beat her to the bottle, anxiously handing it over. A small
smile of thanks let the girl know that she had been helpful.
Juna then pointed toward another vial among the things laid
out beside her, so that Eala could help again. This contained
a mixture to dull pain. “Drink these,” she said to Ash,
holding both containers for him to take. “I’m going to apply a
strong medication that should draw the infection from the
wound. Then I’ll have to sew it again. It will hurt, but you
already know that. When I’m done you’ll feel better.”

She waited a few minutes for the potions to be drunk, then
applied the infection draining medicine to a cloth and pressed
it tightly to cover the wound. It needed some time to work, so
she held it in place. As she waited, Juna saw the sun’s light
fade as evening encroached faster than she wanted. She had
faith in her medication, but it would be crucial to see that
all the infection had been drawn from the injury before it was
stitched shut. The only way to know would be by her expert
sight. While still holding the poultice to Ash’s side, Juna
turned her head to face Eala. “I need light, Eala. To see,”
she said slowly before nodding slightly toward Ash. Juna tried
to communicate with her eyes that it was important. She hoped
Eala would understand, and would be resourceful enough to
help.
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golden_trillium

Admin
Author: Elessars Girl
Date: Wed Aug 06, 2008 8:39 am

Arthur


Arthur sensed some apprehension in Titrus’ voice as the
soldier began to speak; not uncommon among the lower ranking
men when faced directly with their Commander. And this was the
first time that Arthur could recall having a word with this
fellow one on one. The Commander wore his armour well,
expression unflinching and officious despite his inward
turmoil and physical discomfort. At any rate, there were few
who could see through Arthur’s rugged exterior…thankfully.
Arthur’s emerald gaze continued to focus solely on Titrus even
though he was aware of Darya’s movements behind him. A
child….God, please give me guidance.

Titrus
 
"Commander, I regret to inform you that fortress
security was breached earlier. The side gate was
compromised - broken into - and it appears a rescue
party entered. We don't know how many sir,"


A breach? Only the Woads would be so bold. So Merlin had been
up to much more than Arthur had suspected, and what was of
value within the walls of the outpost that the Woad leader
would risk sending people in for? The Commander allowed Titrus
to continue, wanting all the information the soldier had to
report before taking action. Arthur’s fingers flexed into
fists behind his back, out of sight from Titrus, and the lines
in his thick brow deepened with concern as the man continued….

Titrus
 
"We know they were woads, sir, because they penetrated
the dungeons and rescued the younger woad girl. A guard
was killed, sir….we have conducted a door-to-door
search, Commander, and believe there is no longer a
threat. But we could not find the escapee. The gate has
been secured again and the guard's family has been
notified."


“Please convey my personal condolences to his family, Titrus,”
Arthur addressed the news of the fallen soldier first. He then
closed the distance between himself and Titrus and placed a
firm hand on the soldier’s shoulder.

“You have managed the situation to my satisfaction and quite
well, Titrus. Captain Barbattus speaks highly of you and for
good reason,” Arthur offered with a small nod of appreciation
for the soldier’s efficient handling of the breach. “Double
the patrols along the corridors closest to the wall and post
additional outlooks on the ramparts,” Arthur dispensed his
orders and then released his grip on Titrus’ shoulder. No
doubt Merlin’s rescue party had fled the fortress as quickly
as they had entered….but what was so valuable about the
prisoner? Why would they risk such a mission? Curious. Arthur
had begun to turn away from Titrus as he thought on everything
the man had reported when the soldier spoke again…

Titrus
 
"One more thing sir,"


Arthur returned his attention to Titrus giving a slight nod
indicating that he may continue when a knock came at the door.
God willing, this would be a messenger with the news that
Scipio’s party had returned….at least that is what Arthur
prayed for as his gaze turned towards the door. He lifted his
hand to indicate that Titrus hold for a moment.

“Come,” Arthur called out to whoever had knocked. He blew out
a small breath and reached up to scrub thick fingers over his
stubbled jaw while still deep in thought. His side twinged and
his stomach softly rumbled with hunger. But Arthur ignored
both as he began to mull over what further precautions should
be taken to ensure the safety of the fortress. He now had an
unborn child of his own to worry about….and that brought on a
completely new level of worry for Arthur.
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golden_trillium

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Author: Darya
Date: Wed Aug 06, 2008 12:17 pm
Darya and Neeve


Titrus
 
"Commander, I regret to inform you that fortress security was breached earlier. The side gate was compromised - broken into - and it appears a rescue party entered.  We have conducted a door-to-door search, Commander, and believe there is no longer a threat. But we could not find the escapee. The gate has been secured again and the guard's family has been notified…"


Arthur
 
You have managed the situation to my satisfaction and quite well, Titrus. Captain Barbattus speaks highly of you and for good reason. Double the patrols along the corridors closest to the wall and post additional outlooks on the ramparts…”


Darya choked on her water as she listened to what Titrus had
to say and scoffed quietly, stiffling the noise by pressing a
hand to her mouth. Her dark eyes then shifted from one man to
the other while they were talking as she wanted to know the
details. A security breach? Again? Gods, would there ever be a
peaceful quiet night again? And yet some more blood has been
spilled? Damn those Woad creatures! How could she feel safe
when it seemed that Woads could come and go as they pleased
these days? And for a moment, a part of her wished she had
attacked…and maybe even killed…Guinevere when she had had the
chance. When the Woad had openly threatened her and Arthur.
Would things be different now if that had happened? The
Sarmatian could not know…but for some strange reason, she
thought it would have made her feel…better.

“Are there any hints or tracks on how and where the rescue
party has managed to enter the fortress?”, the dark-haired
dared to ask in a neutral tone and for the first time actually
met Titrus' gaze with her dark one. Maybe the attack had left
worse damage to the wall and the gates than she had assumed.
However, if there indeed was a weak spot somewhere, it should
be taken care of immediately, should it not?

And suddenly there was yet another knock at the door…
Immediately, the Sarmatian’s eyes snapped up and shifted
towards the wooden door. The Optio?

Arthur
 
“Come,”


So he was awake. Neeve had yet to decide whether or not she
liked that fact. The Commander should be sleeping. On the
other hand it would now be much easier to check on his injury
again. However, personally, the healer would have appreciated
it a lot to see a guard standing by Arthur’s door to avoid too
many interruptions…or any at all. She would probably mention
that once she had the chance to.

Lifting her chin a little, the Briton then pushed the door
open and entered the familiar room with firm strides, allowing
the door to click shut behind her as she did so. Her
crystal-blue eyes immediately took in the situation and Neeve
arched an eyebrow at the Commander. The man was almost fully
dressed…and he was not in bed as he was supposed to be. And he
looked like a mess… The healer’s lips pressed into a thin line
and her grip on the basket with food and spare bandages
tightened as she approached Arthur and the man he was talking
to. Another Roman by the looks of it. No doubt they were
discussing some important military issue. Yes, she knew that
Arthur as the Commander was a very busy man…but he would not
be a capable busy man anymore if struck down by an infection,
a fever or too high blood-loss. And to avoid that was damn
well her job, thus Neeve could not care less for walking in on
the Commander talking business…

“I am sorry to interrupt, Sir…”, the raven-haired woman said
and gave both men a nod in greeting. Her voice, however,
indicated rather clearly that she was so not sorry…and
definitely not happy with what she was seeing in the room,
“…but your dinner is ready…” With that she lifted the basket
in her hands slightly. “It would be a shame to wait until it
is cold…”, Neeve added and stoically held the Commander’s
emerald gaze, silently telling him that the food was not the
only reason for her presence…

Darya watched the scene before her with furrowed brow. She was
honestly relieved to see the healer entering for she knew that
Arthur needed medical attention. She also was curious about
the way Neeve addressed the Roman and which he had noticed
that the other night already, when the healer had tended to
his and Lancelot’s injuries. Yet Darya also wanted to know
what else Titrus had intended to say. Were there even more bad
Woad news? The Sarmatian smirked briefly at her almost ironic
thoughts and silent wordplays about Woads…but then lowered her
gaze towards the mug she was holding in both her hands…and
sipped the last bit of water… After all, there absolutely
nothing funny in this situation…or her situation for that
matter. But what could or should she do? What?
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golden_trillium

Admin
Author: Unicorn
Date: Wed Aug 06, 2008 1:15 pm
Dagonet


Dagonet saw how she avoided his eyes... and in truth he could
not blame her for it. He was in a deep sorrow and deep pain...
It must have been reflected in his eyes. It must be a
difficult moment to her also. Moment of uncertainty and fear
over the person she loved. The tall knight understood that
completely.

Was there relief in her as he answered?

A deep breath out told him of tension that was in her a moment
before and it was a surprise to him also.

Gods... he was bringing so much pain to the people around him.

She leaned over and kissed him gently. And he tasted this kiss
with a frown of worry... he should be strong for her now... he
should have stayed strong for all of them. He will be once
more strong. He had to find strenghts in him again.

But in the same moment sorrow crept into his heart and fear
cascaded on him with force.

Gedeon will never feel Linnette's lips upon his...

Saoirse
 
"Thank you."


Her whisper made him look back at her and... thank the gods,
that she did not saw his expression of fear and guilt.

Thank you...

For trying to be strong. For assuring her that everything will
be alright once more. He wished he could believe it
stronger... He wanted to believe, but for now it was too hard.

Saoirse stood up and tried her leg.

Saoirse
 
"No problem..."


Dagonet had a frown of worry over his face as he was looking
at her. No problem... He should be there for her to take care
of the wound and to help her in walking... In anything.
Instead he was helplessly laying there and watching while she
was struggeling to walk.

He watched her for moment as she walked to the door... Then he
sighed deeply and his eyes went closed. Everything was damn
complicated... too hard and too painful.

How to cope with this?

And in addition he felt so weak because of the wounds....
because of numb pain in his side. He rised his hand to rub his
face from tiredness... His injured palm was still aching him
slightly at the movement.

Gods... He was a wreck of a man. His body broken, his soul
broken... his heart aching with every breath.

He stilled himself on the bed and allowed his awerness to fly
away before Saoirse returns...
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golden_trillium

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Author: LadyCastus
Date: Wed Aug 06, 2008 3:44 pm
Titrus


Arthur
 
“Please convey my personal condolences to his family,


"Oy, commander," Titrus replied with a sharp nod of his head
as Arthur continued,

Arthur
 
", you have managed the situation to my satisfaction and
quite well, Titrus. Captain Barbattus speaks highly of
you and for good reason,”


"Thank you sir!" Titrus said, tipping his head once again,
still focusing only on the bridge of Arthur's nose.

Arthur
 
“Double the patrols along the corridors closest to the
wall and post additional outlooks on the ramparts,”


"Oy sir! It will be done as you have commanded."

The dark-haired woman next to Arthur had choked on her drink
as Titrus relayed his message. She was seemingly disturbed by
the details. Titrus wasn't sure who she was but she must have
held Arthur's confidence since he had allowed to remain in the
room while the Romans discussed such delicate issues such as
security. Before Titrus could continue with the rest of the
news, the woman spoke,

Darya
 
“Are there any hints or tracks on how and where the
rescue party has managed to enter the fortress?”


Titrus looked his eyes off of Arthur and looked at the woman,
quite surprised that she'd asked him a question.

"Erm, yes ma'am," Titrus replied.

"Like I told the commander, we can tell they penetrated the
fortress at the side gate. It was damaged pretty badly during
the last attack and we're pretty sure that's how they got
in...." he said, "but it's been completely repaired. It's not
possible to breach that gate again," Titrus added quickly to
assure the commander that there would be no further incidents
at that side gate. Arthur still stared at Titrus with knitted
brows, but finally acknowledged the knock on the door.

Arthur
 
“Come,”


Just then another dark haired woman entered into Arthur's
quarters, carrying a basket. The smell of food assaulted the
lieutenant's stomach which reminded him that he hadn't eaten
at all that day. Titrus recognized this woman however, as one
of the fortress healers. He nodded his head slightly in
recognition but the woman looked serious and not in the mood
for casualities.

Neeve
 
“I am sorry to interrupt, Sir…but your dinner is ready…
“It would be a shame to wait until it is cold…”


Titrus looked back to Arthur and said,

"Pardon me sir, but the last bit of news that I wanted to
relay was that we found a woman's clothes in an alleyway just
behind the dungeons. It appears that maybe the clothes were a
disguise which were discarded after the breach. We believe
that at least one of the rescuers was a woman."

With the last bit of his rehearsed speech now spoken, Titrus
waited for further orders or a dismissal from Arthur.









Malcus Barbattus

Amadeus
 
What the fuck! Inside. Dungeons with her - and you go to
the barracks and stay there until Arthur or myself calls
for you."


The optio's words still rang in Malcus' ears as he stormed
through the barracks gate. The captain's heavy cloak flapped
behind him like wings as the cold evening wind kicked up. But
Malcus was so furious, the cold did not relieve the intense
heat that singed his skin from his unbashed anger.

The captain had deposited the woad prisoner back into the
cells, kicking and screaming like a hell cat. He had scratches
to prove it. At least he saw to it himself that she had clean
straw, a couple of blankets and fresh water before he left.

Fucking optio! Fucking woads! FUCK!!!! the rant went on inside
his head.

Malcus approached the guards on duty and they saluted. One of
them, surprised to see Barbattus, spoke, "Captain!....."

"Not now," Barbattus said without saluting to the young man
and without stopping. "I'll be in my quarters and I don't want
to be disturbed."

"But Captain..." the young guard tried again.

Barbattus whirled on his heel and rushed the guard so quickly
that the young man's eyes bulged and his mouth fell open.

"If it is not a matter of life and death," Malcus growled
through gritted teeth, "especially YOUR OWN, didn't I just say
LEAVE ME THE FUCK ALONE?!"

The brave young man swallowed hard and said, almost a whisper,

"Y.Y..Y yes, sir, but I..I...uh, I just wanted you to know
that Titrus is in with the commander, informing him of the
breach,"

Malcus froze. "What breach?"

The captain felt the pain increase in the middle of his
forehead as the guard relayed the story. Woads. Behind the
wall. Again!

"Very well," Malcus said, struggling to control his temper,
"thank you for the report. I'll be in my quarters. No one is
to disturb me, not even Titrus. I will speak with him later.
Am I clear?"

"Yes, sir" the two guards said in unison as Barbattus strode
past them and down the long dark corridor toward his room
where he would await his fate. He opened the door of his room,
slammed the door behind him and yanked his cloak off, throwing
it across the room.

Malcus could only imagine the picture the incompetent optio
would paint for Arthur. It was absurd. Malcus was a decorated
war officer while the optio couldn't negotiate himself out of
a chapel service! Clearly the man was scared nearly to death
but the captain knew that would not be the story Arthur would
hear.

Barbattus removed his chest plate and hauberk, then went to
the basin and splashed cold water on his face. His hands
gripped the sides of the basin until his knuckles went white.
Taking deep breaths, trying to harness his fury, Malcus
crossed the room and lay down on his bed, looking up at the
ceiling. The captain knew if Amadeus wanted it, Malcus could
be severely punished for insubordination. The thought made his
stomach roll. Malcus had been schooled by his own father and
Uther Pendragon and never before had he been accused of
contempt or insubordination.

Malcus closed his eyes and cringed.

"I hope it is Arthur who comes for me," he said to the empty
room, "otherwise, instead of insubordination, I might be
charged with murder."
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golden_trillium

Admin
Author: SarmatianKnight
Date: Wed Aug 06, 2008 3:45 pm
Lucius


Lucius had been trained to open his eyes and look. His father
had known how important it was for a merchant to always be one
step ahead, to know more than the possible customer did, to
look and see. Lucius had learned that lesson easily. It was
all in their eyes and he was a good observer. So he recognised
the darkness in Derfel's expression and it was this darkness
that told a whole story about pain, which reminded him in an
odd way of himself. Maybe it was this memory that kept him
from a kind but straight forward comment. His gaze lingered a
moment longer than necessary on Derfel though, reading the
signs he saw. The delivered barrell ended the close
examination immediatly.

Lucius' scars were well hidden indeed: beneath his shirt and
deep down in his soul. Both, the physical and the mental
scars, were his own and most private scars he did not intend
to share with anyone else. In most of the fights he had been
in (and these were really just a few smaller ones) he had been
lucky enough to use more his bow than the sword - which
allowed him to add some space between himself and the enemy.
He planned to stick to this strategy if it was possible.

Somehow.

The look on the woman's face and the way how she eyed Derfel
up and down was quite funny and Lucius had to lower his eyes.
He did not want to laugh out loud right now because... well,
he did not really know (yet) how the tavern wenches of this
island could be but he had seen how they had acted in other
countries when they had been upset. And personally he had
certainly not to face this excerience himself.

Derfel
 
“You are going to give me a hand in drinking this?”


With a raised eyebrow the Roman cocked his head. The movement
ended in a shake of his head and he grabbed his own ale. "Your
barrell, your fun. Cheers." After a good swig he added: "I
assume you can use it and I heard that Saxons are quite good
drinkers." He had no problems with the fact that he, a Roman,
was sitting here and drinking ale with a Saxon. As he would
have drank with every other man at the fort. Every other man
he liked.

Derfel
 
“What news of the day? Any Woads seen runnin’ about
while I was busy heftin’ furniture all day?”


Lucius put the ale back onto the table and gave Derfel a
surprised look. He had done what the whole day?! The question
was obviously reflected in his eyes but all he said after a
long moment was: "Nice activity." He nodded to underline his
words, before again he shook his head. "No news, no Woads as
far as I know. All has been quiet and again I can just say
that they won't return. Not now. They are Woads and pagans but
they are not stupid. Some people seem to forget that at
times." Lucius stopped. He was not in the position to question
things again but it was hard. His gaze focused on his new
friend again and the observing look was back. "Can I ask you
something?"
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golden_trillium

Admin
Author: golden_trillium
Date: Wed Aug 06, 2008 9:02 pm
Linnette and Linnesse


The day’s light was failing, the orange sun no longer visible
from behind the fortress wall as they were, when Linnette
finally left the new quarters, shutting the door quietly
behind her. Derfel had gone at least a quarter of an hour ago,
ostensibly to get some food, though Linnette suspected that
that was not his whole reason. As things had been put into
place, and as she and Linnesse had fallen to talking, and the
shadows grew longer and the windows darkened, the apartment
had taken on a sorrow-filled, oppressive air. Derfel, who had
said hardly anything all afternoon, had probably been glad to
leave it, and Linnette was both glad to have him gone and,
now, glad to leave it herself, to the extent that she could be
glad of anything.

Linnesse was once more asleep. Pronouncing that she was not
that hungry, and too tired to either go to the tavern or wait
up for Derfel’s return, anyway, she had already changed into
her nightdress and allowed Linnette to tuck her into bed in
her and Derfel’s inner room. After that, with a heavy silence
replacing even the morose conversation, and the dark
ever-increasing, Linnette truly couldn’t stand it in the
apartment any longer. She had told Derfel- or more accurately,
allowed Linnesse to imply- that she wasn’t going anywhere, and
was going to get some rest herself, but that was out of the
question. The thought of lying down, in Gedeon’s bed, but with
no Gedeon, in a strange room, and with his saddlebags still
packed and standing like twin lumpy ghosts against the wall in
the small corner she could call her own- it was unthinkable.
Casting desperately about in her mind for something to do, she
lit upon the idea of visiting the infirmary, seeing if Dagonet
was up to company.

She had almost forgotten about the older man since yesterday
in the courtyard, and that omission gave her a stab of guilt.
She should go and see him- he was family now, and he was
wounded, and he grieved, too. Having made up her mind, she
moved more quickly and purposefully, locating her cloak and
shouldering it, and making a cursory attempt to fold under the
edges of the bandages on her hands, to try to make them as
narrow, and therefore inconspicuous, as possible. Not that it
made much difference. They were still bandages, and the left
one, at least, was very necessary. After the work of the
afternoon, her hand ached worse than ever, a tenderness and
fragility punctuated by stabbing pain whenever she did
anything that overstrained it, which was most things. One of
the bones of the hand was cracked, probably- Linnesse had
agreed with her initial assessment, clucking worriedly over
the injury while she redid Drake’s bindings with fresh cloth.

And she had done an excellent job. The hand felt nicely
supported, the wrappings tight but not too tight and
scrupulously neat. There was, in fact, hardly any extra to
tuck in, but Linnette was still fiddling with it
self-consciously as she stepped away from her now-closed door.
Dagonet would ask her about them, and she hadn’t decided yet
what she would tell him- whether he could be one of those who
knew the truth or not. Almost no one did, of course- only
Linnesse and Drake, though Linnesse had probably either told
Derfel already, or would soon. Damn it. Wasn’t there any
escaping Derfel knowing every embarrassing detail of her
emotional life? Apparently not, and even less so now that they
were housemates.

Linnette’s discontent was enveloped in a growing loneliness as
she started down the corridor, heading for the exit. Ahead of
her, up the hallway, one of the officer’s wives shepherded her
two small children out of one doorway, and called a cheerful
greeting to someone else in another nearby room. Linnette
managed a faint social smile as the woman looked over at her,
too- but the shift of the other woman’s expression into pity
as she saw her made nothing better. Pity was only a reminder
of what had caused Linnette’s sorrow, and a humiliating one,
too, and she was suddenly loath to walk any closer and invite
conversation. She slowed her steps, uncertainly- then made a
sudden, unpremeditated turn to the right, to where the door
next to hers, she had just noticed, stood open, and where the
failing light revealed the presence of a figure inside.

She could ask Drake to go with her to the infirmary- the
sudden wild thought appeared full-blown in her head. It was
presumptuous, not to mention cowardly and silly, of her, but
maybe…she approached closer, within the doorway of Drake’s
room, now, but with the request no more than a dry powder in
her throat that she could not articulate- but then nervousness
melted into surprise as she saw what, exactly, Drake was
doing.

“You…you can read?” she blurted abruptly, staring down at the
book- a real, bound book, unmistakable even in the dim window
light- that Drake held open in his hands.
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golden_trillium

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Author: lady ione
Date: Wed Aug 06, 2008 9:25 pm
Adian


His eyes stared blankly out the window at a world that had
seemed much brighter only days ago: wheat colored hair that
glistened in the sunlight like Autumn leaves in the early
morning, lips a lovely blush and soft as the finest satin.
Adian felt lost and confused. Nothing made sense right now...
being taken to the Woad camp...Juna....the battle...the spear
wound which was still healing... Damn it all! If he had not
lost his temper to that insufferable woman, Linnette, then he
would not have left the fort, and he'd have still been here to
protect Thorn and their child. Adian felt hate and loathing
for himself. For his thoughtless act....thinking of no one but
himself. He rubbed his hands up and down his arms feeling the
still healing wound itch a bit.

Was he using Tatiana? He was not sure, but she had been there
for him...left him feel her body as they bathed...had felt her
close to him. No, he liked her alright, and wanted to make her
happy....

Tatiana
 
"Adian..its ok. You did nothing wrong. There's nothing
to apologize for, nothing wrong with looking for comfort
in someone else, especially if you're missing your
beloved."


Tatiana's voice seemed distant, and yet so close. Slowly,
Adian turned so that his eyes locked on to hers. In them was
everything he wanted to say to her: That he liked her a lot,
that he was happy she'd marry him, the sadness he was still
feeling. Without hesitation, and with his eyes still on hers,
the young man walked over to her, and kissed her passionately,
then held her close. She seemed so fragile. Adian just allowed
himself the luxury of holding her, his fingers running through
the soft strands of copper, "No...there is nothing wrong in
seeking comfort in someone else, Tatiana. Thank you for being
here for me."

Thank you, Fiona...for just being there. I will never forget
you, and hope we meet again. Adian began to slowly dance, his
right hand resting on Tatiana's waist, his left hand finding
her hand entwining his fingers with hers. He began to softly
sing a ballade with a nice tune to it. Adian's eyes closed,
then opened as he moved Tatiana a bit from him so he could
study her features while they danced...

Tatiana
 
"I want to marry you too, Adian." "Of course, do what
you feel is right for Thorn. Did you want me to help you
with anything in that regard? " "When would a good time
for me to move in here be? I'm quite small and don't
take up very much space, but at least it'll help us to
get to know the other one better..."


The sun was setting now, and it was a perfect time to get
Thorn's memorial site set up. In his mind, he had thought it a
perfect plan to do so, but what if the woads stole her sword,
then he'd have nothing of her to remember her by. Adian looked
at his dance partner, "You know, sweet memories are best, I
think. Monuments and grave sites can't compare with golden
memories and thoughts...times shared." He cast his glance to
the empty place above the fireplace. "I think I will make a
decorative wooden display for her sword and hang it above the
fire place. Thorn would have liked that...." As for the other
of her questions, Tatiana was definitly one not to waste time.
Adian chuckled, "You can move in anytime you wish to. You are
right, it will help us to get to know each other better...."
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golden_trillium

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Author: golden_trillium
Date: Thu Aug 07, 2008 8:59 am
Tristan


So it hadn’t gone well. Tristan had expected anything
different, really- it wasn’t like Merlin was going to lie down
and acquiesce to any demands the Romans might make- but it
still gave the return to the fort a sour, unproductive,
frustrating air. The Optio and the Captain were both plainly
furious, the aura of anger surrounding each of them almost
thick enough to touch. Once at the stables, the fuming Scipio
ordered Barbattus peremptorily to take the prisoner back to
the dungeons and then report to his quarters, which he did,
and Scipio stomped off as well, no doubt to fill Arthur in on
the disaster. Really, though, they were all just lucky they
didn’t have arrows in their backs. Merlin could have done it-
could have ordered it with a tiny wave of his hand. It was
just the luck of the Gods that he hadn’t.

Tristan swung off Tirgatao in the courtyard before the
stables, where Scipio and Barbattus had left their horses.
Mordred was dismounting not too far away, and Jols was there,
too, awaiting their return, as unobtrusively helpful as ever.
Rather uncharacteristically, Tristan felt the urge to vent,
and as he led Tirgatao past the squire, words spilled over the
edges of his lips.

“They fucked it up,” he muttered bad-temperedly to Jols.








Merlin

"Underworld take them," Merlin muttered, spitting on the
ground beside him in contempt as the Romans and their
Sarmatian slave rode away into the gathering darkness. They
had taken Neeria again at the last- her struggles and a
too-late grab by the warrior who stood nearest her had availed
nothing- but other than that, they were well gone. And as for
Neeria- well, she must have been a traitor after her. Why
would the Roman dog have gone to such effort to retrieve her
if she had not truly helped them? Merlin straightened his back
decisively as he settled mentally on that explanation.
Truthfully, uncertainty still plucked at the back of his mind-
Neeria was among the last people he would have expected to
show weakness or indecision in the face of danger! How could
she have turned traitor, and at so little provocation as Mona
had said? But incredibly, it rather looked like it were true-
and for the time being, that was Merlin's public stance.
Neeria was a traitor- to the cause and the land and her
people.

As the thump of hoofbeats on the soft forest trails faded,
Merlin signaled for his warriors to lower their bows. He knew
they would still be aware, and keep watch, but the immediate
danger from the fort seemed to have faded- and now, before
they started the long, ever-darker trek back towards the main
group up the trail, he wanted to know what was wrong with
Mona, and what- what the hell!- had passed between Guinevere
and the formerly-tied-up warriors- if that was indeed what
they had meant.

"How is she?" Merlin turned first in the direction of Mona,
who sat slumped at the base of a tree, Juna tending to Ash not
far off. Guinevere stood before her fellow rescuer, and the
look that Merlin now turned on his daughter was stern and
disapproving.

"And what's this I hear about you leaving my warriors tied up?
It did them no good, as you can see." He gestured towards the
two bodies lying on the shadowed ground, a hint of anger now
showing in his voice despite trying to suppress it. What
reason could she have had for such a thing?
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golden_trillium

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Author: Elessars Girl
Date: Thu Aug 07, 2008 9:34 am
Derfel


By the gods the ale tasted sweeter than ever as Derfel downed
his first full mug of the potent drink. The young knight had
never been one to drown his pains and miseries with alcohol,
but tonight that seemed the most logical thing to do. Except
Derfel did not want to disappoint Linnesse….so he’d try to
find a better way to deal with his troubles…after he’d drunk
his fill that is.

Lucius
 
Your barrell, your fun. Cheers. I assume you can use it
and I heard that Saxons are quite good drinkers."


“Aye,” Derfel snorted a laugh at Lucius’ comment on Saxons.
However, the ‘Saxon’ knight truly had no idea about that
notion. Both his brother and his father had been killed before
Derfel had had the opportunity to get better aquainted with
any Saxons. He slightly shook his head at that thought and
took another generous swig of ale before the darkness could
devour his thoughts again.

Lucius
 
"No news, no Woads as far as I know. All has been quiet
and again I can just say that they won't return. Not
now. They are Woads and pagans but they are not stupid.
Some people seem to forget that at times."


Quite an intelligent and informed opinion of the native
Britons Derfel thought; rare to hear such logic coming out of
a Roman’s mouth. Derfel gave Lucius a curious look before
commenting.

“No, they are no fools…their leader wouldn’t attack without a
good reason,” Derfel answered with a somber tone as he lightly
picked at the grain of the table with his free hand. Merlin
was an intelligent man…and Derfel had a unique perspective on
the Woad leader…he’d been the receiver of the old man’s
compassion and care years ago. Odd to be on the other side of
the Wall, so to speak, now as one of Arthur’s knights.

Lucius
 
"Can I ask you something?"


“Hm? Oh…sure ye can, friend,” Derfel answered amicably as he
re-filled his mug and graciously topped off Lucius’ while he
was at it. The medium sized barrel made a heavy clunk on the
tabletop as he sat the heavy thing back down again. He was
willing to talk about nearly anything to keep himself
distracted from darker thoughts. Derfel had successfully
avoided direct contact with Arthur since that night…..since
the death of Aelle. And what of the Saxon King’s sword that
Derfel now had carefully wrapped in cloth and stored in his
quarters now? Could Derfel ever have the guts to lift that
sword and wield it as his father had? The mighty sword had
last been lifted against Arthur and thus had Derfel thinking
he could not. The knight took another drink as he felt the
darkness threatening him again….and prayed to Bel that Lucius
could be a good friend and distract Derfel for a bit.
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golden_trillium

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Author: Kay
Date: Thu Aug 07, 2008 11:27 am
Guinevere


The Woad princess watched the enemy ride away, and then she
saw her father walking toward where she stood, with Mona near
her feet. He looked at the unconscious Woad.

Merlin
 
"How is she?"


Guinevere was about to answer when Merlin turned to her; his
face displayed his displeasure.

Merlin
 
"And what's this I hear about you leaving my warriors
tied up? It did them no good, as you can see."


"Father" Guinevere said. "After you left to return to camp, I
came back to fetch two or three of the warriors you had left
behind, to accompany us on our mission. They were drunk! And
one of them tried to molest me, so I took off his head, and
bound the others to await your judgement. I did not believe
for one second that Neeria would lead the Romans here. Has she
turned traitor?"

Guinevee shook her head and sank down onto a fallen log.

"And as for Mona" she said, gesturing at the bloodied girl.
"We saw the Sarmatian take Neeria on his horse, and we
followed the group out of the fortress. When we reached the
forest, she turned on me; she was like a crazed dog. I had to
defend myself. I believe she has lost her reason. What is
happening to us all, Father? Two of my best fighters are lost
to our cause. I can scarcely believe it. Even Connell has
abandoned us. He wandered away in the fortress"

She looked up at Merlin; her eyes were wide with the shock and
disbelief.
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golden_trillium

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Author: LadyCastus
Date: Thu Aug 07, 2008 12:44 pm
Mona


Mona lay on the ground, with her eyes closed, but she'd
regained consciousness a moment earlier. She felt very cold,
no doubt a result of the loss of blood she suffered from. She
heard voices, voices that she recognized.

Guinevere
 
What is happening to us all, Father?


Guinevere.

Father? Merlin? Is Merlin here?

The filthy, bloodied woman, opened her eyes and, even though
up-side down from her position, she saw Merlin standing just a
few feet away from her. With all of her strength, she rolled
over so that she saw him upright as a smile spread across her
bloody, bruised, face. Mona leaned on one arm and outstretched
her other arm toward the woad leader. Her spider-like fingers
twitched and reached out, trying to touch the man. Blood oozed
out the wounds in her head making a lightening streak down her
contorted as she stretched, reaching out, smiling crazily.

"Merlin," she croaked. "You waited for me."
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golden_trillium

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Author: Elessars Girl
Date: Thu Aug 07, 2008 3:05 pm

Arthur


Although the steely mask he wore as ‘commander’ concealed it,
the news of the breach had particularly distressed Arthur
since he now had another life to protect…his unborn child’s
life. He gave Titrus a firm nod as the soldier seemed eager
and competent to carry out the orders. Arthur would certainly
speak to Malcus when the Captain returned….I pray to God for
his safe return. We have much to discuss, my old friend. And
where is Lancelot? Albeit, Arthur’s conscience quickly
reminded the Roman that it was best not to know what kept his
lieutenant.

Darya
 
“Are there any hints or tracks on how and where the
rescue party has managed to enter the fortress?”


Arthur’s gaze briefly ticked to Darya as his lover spoke. The
question was a valid one as he was still interested in the
details despite the threat being over. The Commander had felt
a swell of anger the moment Titrus had first reported about a
breach. I should have gone to Merlin myself the moment my men
were safely behind the walls of the keep. He rubbed thick
fingers across his lips and turned deceptively placid green
eyes on Titrus again awaiting any further details from the
soldier and awaiting for whoever had knocked to enter.

Titrus
 
"Erm, yes ma'am. Like I told the commander, we can tell
they penetrated the fortress at the side gate. It was
damaged pretty badly during the last attack and we're
pretty sure that's how they got in, but it's been
completely repaired. It's not possible to breach that
gate again,"


“I will trust you, Titrus, to be sure that none of our gates
are penetrable,” Arthur clarified as he slightly lifted his
chin to the soldier and crossed his arms over his broad chest.
Arthur’s side twinged again, but he continued to ignore
it…focusing instead on his concerns for the safety of the
fortress and God willing, favorable news from Scipio’s mission
to Merlin.

The door opened and instead of the expected Optio or some
messenger, it was Neeve that entered Arthur’s chambers…and
carrying what appeared to be a basket full of food. Good.
Well, in truth Arthur would have been more relieved had it
been the safe return of his officers….but the raven haired
Briton was always a welcome sight. No doubt she’d come to
examine the Commander’s stitches and school him on why he
should be resting and not seeing to his duties. Arthur
inwardly sighed but kept an industrious gaze on Neeve's dark
features.

Neeve
 
“I am sorry to interrupt, sir…but your dinner is ready…
It would be a shame to wait until it is cold…”


“Neeve…what has kept you, hm?” Arthur quipped in reply and met
Neeve’s stern expression with one of his own. Of course he
knew the Briton only had his best interests in mind and the
two had known each other many long years….thus Arthur’s gaze
truly held no reproach for Neeve. The Commander had always
regarded the healer with the affection of a blood relative and
she knew it. And Arthur was famished. He also stubbornly
accounted his current light-headedness to his painfully empty
stomach….although there was more to it than that.

Titrus
 
Pardon me sir, but the last bit of news that I wanted to
relay was that we found a woman's clothes in an alleyway
just behind the dungeons. It appears that maybe the
clothes were a disguise which were discarded after the
breach. We believe that at least one of the rescuers was
a woman."


Guinevere. Who else among the Woads had a good working
knowledge of the fortress? Merlin would send his own daughter
on such a risky mission…he had before.

“Thank you, Titrus. However, that is not a surprise,” Arthur
said with a reassuring tone and then briefly gestured with one
hand towards the door to indicate the soldier’s dismissal.
“Come to me immediately if you learn of anything further,” The
Commander finished and then turned to face Neeve and the
rather inviting basket in her arms.

“And what have you brought me, hm?” Arthur gave a small smile
at the healer as he stepped towards the table expecting both
ladies to follow. He would see to it that Darya ate as
well….it was now more important than ever.

“And before you begin lecturing me, I have rested quite enough
today,” Arthur added with what he hoped was a convincing
smile…but Neeve knew him nearly as well as Darya and Lancelot.
He would not be able to conceal his true condition from the
Briton for a moment longer. But, God willing, Arthur’s body
would hold out until the soldier had exited the room.
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