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| October 2008 | |
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| Tweet Topic Started: May 1 2010, 05:17 PM (3,205 Views) | |
| golden_trillium | May 15 2010, 01:06 AM Post #241 |
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Author: golden_trillium Date: Mon Oct 27, 2008 6:55 am Linnesse and Linnette
"Don't be silly- someone should walk you," Linnesse insisted, back still turned firmly to Drake, as the clasp of Fleur's cloak finally- finally!- snapped into place. Cassidy had already slid off the bed and put her own cloak on, seeming rather resigned to her fate- but what cause did she have to be upset? They did have somewhere to go, didn't they, and they couldn't stay in the infirmary forever. Why would they want to? Curse it. Linnesse straightened up and glanced back over her shoulder, carefully avoiding Drake's emerald eyes, at the cracked door of Ione's room. She had already been gone longer than she had planned to be, and she really should check on her patient again. But she couldn't just leave these two here, either, or let them walk home alone, not with Drake hanging around! Linnesse looked around the room helplessly, but all the healers who were visible seemed to be busy. Who could...her blue eyes suddenly fell on her sister, standing near the doorway, next to a thin, dark-haired girl whom Linnesse didn't recognize. "Linnette?" Linnesse called, and her sister, hearing her voice, turned in her direction and, after a second's hesitation, began to make her way over to Linnesse and the girls, wending her way between beds and tables and chairs. When she reached Linnesse's side, Linnesse spotted the small book once again under Linnette's arm, and supposed that Linnette had come here to read to Dagonet, as she had mentioned she might. Well...perhaps she wouldn't mind running a very quick errand, first. "Hello, Linnesse. Girls," Linnette greeted Fleur with a warm smile, remembering the young girl's contagious enthusiasm- but then her gaze slid to Cassidy, and lingered curiously there for a moment, wondering what occasioned the aura of disappointment that fairly rolled off the older girl. Cassidy's head was bowed, her face almost completely hidden by strands of blonde hair, but try as she might, Linnette could not catch her eye. She straightened, her eyes traveling over to Drake, and as their gazes met, felt a sudden stab of shyness, remembering the aborted maybe-would-have-been-kiss of last night. The corner of her mouth twitched up into a smile, or started to, but then she dropped her eyes demurely away without saying anything. She wasn't going to give Linnesse more to wonder about. And it wasn't right, anyway. "Linnette, I'm really very, very sorry," Linnesse was saying apologetically, gesturing towards the book that Linnette had almost forgotten she was carrying. "But if you have just a moment...do you think you could walk Cassidy and Fleur home? They have to go, and I have a patient to check on..." Linnesse pointed towards Ione's door and bounced with uncomfortable impatience on her toes. She really had to make sure Ione was all right- she should never have gotten drawn into a discussion with Drake in the first place! She should have asked him straight out to leave, and if he wouldn't, sent a messenger for the guards. It was that simple- it was what Linnette would have done! Right? Well, had it been any other man. Linnette seemed to have a curious, inexplicable blindness where Drake was concerned. Linnesse made bold enough to toss a quick, petulant glare at Drake, but Linnette, who was glancing over her shoulder at Dagonet, didn't notice. She seemed rather antsy herself. "Well...I do have to have a word with Dagonet, but they can come with me. And then we'll go after that." Perhaps while Mari was drawing, if Mari was comfortable with such a thing? Linnette looked from Linnesse to Fleur to Cassidy, shrugging questioningly, and Linnesse let out a breath and nodded gratefully. That would do just fine. As long as the girls had someone to walk home with them- and Linnesse would watch and make sure Linnette came straight back, but outdoors, in broad daylight, she wasn't particularly worried. She would, however, have to have a very serious word with Linnette soon. "Of course. Thank you." Linnesse took a step towards Linnette and laid a hand on her sister's shoulder, adding in a lower voice as she glanced again back toward the private room's doorway. "It's Ione. She lost the baby." Linnesse's face fell into sorrowful, distressed lines, and then she was away, moving off toward the door of Ione's room, leaving Linnette standing there, a bit stunned. "Oh," Linnette murmurred in her sister's wake, her free hand crossing over to rest protectively on her own stomach. Merlin
"You as well," Merlin put in as Nolan moved off, gathering the rest of the members of the burial party- well, Smith and Kayley were aready on their way down the trail, both of them perched on that horse. Merlin shook his head a bit uneasily. Useful though one of them might be, the Woad leader didn't want too many of his people getting too attatched to the foreign things. It was good, really, that Smith was a man who tended to keep to himself. But between Rosita's interest and Kayley's, it didn't seem he would forever. Ah, well. Merlin would have a word with him when they were all safely in the village, but for now, they would do what needed to be done. And it looked like the larger party was ready to go, too. Merlin cast a shrewd look around at the group- all were there, carrying their things, and the litter was ready for Ash. The traitor Mona's body was safely stowed under some bushes, and that was all they would do for her. There was no more to be done here. "We go home," Merlin announced to the group, urging them onward with a gesture as he began to walk himself. Juna soon fell into step with him, and they continued on the final leg of their journey, going towards the village and home and rest. |
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| golden_trillium | May 15 2010, 01:08 AM Post #242 |
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Author: Darya Date: Mon Oct 27, 2008 10:10 am Neeve Neeve kept her gaze on Arthur, trusting Lancelot and Tristan to have Neeria under control. And she wouldn’t really care if the First Knight had shut the Woad’s mouth once and for all. Yet her focus remained on the Roman in front of her…
Neeve narrowed her eyes a little…scrutinizing the Commander’s face. Of course he was not fine. He was still injured. Neeria might not have made things worse regarding his wound…but he was injured. Yet the healer once more bit her tongue to not start an argument about the Roman’s health right now. Instead she puffed out a breath and tilted her head slightly. “Of course she is…”, the Briton murmured with not even with a hint of sympathy in her voice
The raven-haired woman briefly wrinkled her nose. Perhaps one should lock Neeria up in one of the small backrooms of the infirmary…and guard the door. That would be the safest thing to do. The Woad would be under control…and healers and nuns were nearby should something happen. And Neeve wouldn’t have a millstone round her neck…if Arthur indeed stuck to his earlier words…
…which of course he did. The healer shook her head and brushed a hand over her face. This was bad. So bad. Granted, it was somewhat relieving to hear that she would at least have Derfel by her side and was not all responsible for the Woad. But still… Ignoring Neeria and everyone else, Neeve rushed after Arthur… “Commander, on a word, please…”, she addressed him, yet didn’t even wait for him to actually agree to her request. “First of all…I have no idea what I’ve done to deserve being made that Woad’s babysitter…”, the raven-haired added in a low chilly voice and with a more than displeased expression in her piercing eyes, “…but what’s even more important: I know about your plans for the day and the reasons for them… And just for the record, Arthur…as a healer and your friend…” Neeve paused and sighed. “To ride out to face the Woads again is a bad idea…and I cannot give you my healer’s permission for this quest with a good conscious. I know that this won’t make you change your mind…so please do me at least one favour: see me first thing upon your return. For your health’s and my sanity’s sake…” If you return. With that, the Briton frowned at the Roman as she waited for him to reply. By now, the others had caught up with them…of course including Neeria. Noticing that, Neeve was actually glad to have voiced her concerns already. She still didn’t consider this matter something the enemy should be too aware of. And Neeria was the enemy…no matter what Arthur said.
Arching an eyebrow, the healer glanced at Tristan. He had mentioned something about another little Woad last night already. Was there more about that? |
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| golden_trillium | May 15 2010, 01:30 AM Post #243 |
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Author: Lancelot Date: Mon Oct 27, 2008 1:18 pm Lancelot
The first knight's face was drawn and pinched, and he only took one eye off Neeria - even as she struggled within his and Tristan's grasp and spoke quickly to reassure him she'd do what he asked - but when Arthur spoke, his words had the Sarmatian turning his head completely to stare down the Roman.
Lancelot's already arched brow cocked wildly as Arthur continued. That is enough??? And then he yet threatens the Woad with my 'punishment' if she doesn't behave? Oh, that's a dangerously comical irony, my friend. He laughed as he shoved his sword back into its sheath, comfortable enough now with the proximity of the dagger in his jacket pocket. He was careful enough to keep his leathers on this time - and made a face as he repeated what Arthur had just ordered. "Derfel? Oh, certainly, commander. That will be too much a pleasure." Lancelot snapped his mouth shut, and, with Tristan, frog-marched the girl, albeit with less force than he'd like, out of the dungeon as the small group of people made their way back into the light. Thank the gods. Lancelot shivered involuntarily and had a hard time supressing his gladness at getting out of that place ... he hated the dungeons almost as much as he did the valetudinarium. But then again - he was already a prisoner of Rome and did not like to be reminded of the two places he'd pay to not end up in. Neeve rushed forward to catch up with Arthur; Tristan and Lancelot followed at a steady pace, Lancelot allowing his inner turmoil to go ahead and rise to the forefront, like the cream off churned milk. Except this cream was rancid and stunk, and the more he tried to toss it away, the more it stuck to him like goo.
A frown drew Lancelot's features into pointy shapes; he would have hit the first person that told him it made him look fae-like, but with his wild hair and disarrayed clothing and blackened, bruised face and angry expression...all he needed would be a damned crown of leaves to complete the picture of nature gone crazy. He hadn't heard all of Neeve's conversation, but he had heard the tail end, and that was enough. He'd agree with most of her comments, probably, but Arthur had proved enough he wasn't going to change his mind - no matter whom was doing the begging. I am baring myself raw for you
Still walking along with Neeria in his grasp, Lancelot canted eyes to the scout. "Which one this time?" he interrupted. The unhappiness echoed out from his words; he licked his cracked lips and wiped with his free hand at the dried blood that was crusted below his eye. |
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| golden_trillium | May 15 2010, 01:30 AM Post #244 |
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Author: LadyCastus Date: Mon Oct 27, 2008 4:28 pm Rosita and Nolan Rosita waved to Merlin as he turned and joined the others headed toward the village. She hoped to be reunited with her people soon and said a silent prayer to the gods to ask for their traveling mercies. The woad swiped a fallen lock of her dark hair from her eyes with the back of her hand as she watched Smith ride off on his horse, Kayley on the back with him. Rosita's eyes widened as she glimpsed Smith's long hair bounce in the wind and noticed his thighs tighten as he guided the beast onward. She knew she shouldn't have ignored him earlier, but getting into a conversation with Smith could only be dangerous for her. It would be better if she kept her distance from the gorgeous loner lest her inner desires take over her conscious actions. So she had pretended not to acknowledge his flirtatious comment. Rosita had admired Smith from afar for a long time. She was sure that he knew it, but Rosita tried hard not to act on her feelings. "Yes, Nolan, I'm ready. Let's go." Merlin's second looked over his shoulder and watched Merlin and the others as they slowly started to disappear among the trees. "Until we meet again, my leader," he said softly. Nolan lifted his quiver and slung it over his shoulder. He then picked up his giant bow. Rosita did the same. "Let's go," he said and the two of them, along with a few other carefully selected warriors disappeared into the forest themselves. |
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| golden_trillium | May 15 2010, 01:35 AM Post #245 |
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Author: Pinkie Date: Mon Oct 27, 2008 5:05 pm Amadeus Titrus hopped to business in a most admirable way. Amadeus took his attention from the grumbler a moment to look at the smaller male at work, snapping orders and issuing new ones. He nodded his head in satisfaction wondering if this man would prove himself worthy of special attentions in the days to come. Amadeus was looking for a few good men, trustworthy sorts, men who followed orders to the letter. Not men like Captain Barbattus who got into their thick skulls to act beyond the boundaries of their duties and expect some kind of congratulations for it. No - not men like that. But the Tristan's and Titrus' of the fort could expect to profit from the likes of Amadeus taking over. And women like the little blonde might go somewhere in life other than the back of the stables for a quick grope. A woman who blushed so prettily and spoke so demurely could be taught to do other things that men liked.
The Optio merely smiled sadly at her words, still a lively sparkle to his grey eyes, making them almost silver, contrasting with his black hair which insisted on falling down over his forehead in unruly strands. Would the pixie think herself cornered or pampered if she were to receive an invite to a private dinner with the 'lord Optio' of Badon Hill? His mind was snapped back to reality as he peered at the broad shouldered male who had harumphed so eloquently. He seemed to feel definitely cornered in being directly spoken to by a superior officer. Another thing Amadeus could admire. He had the look of a man who might be able to follow an order. He also looked like he might be a bit of a brute... Hmph. Amadeus almost grinned to himself when he realised he was looking at people as mere tools for his plotted coup.
He gave Karl a gracious smile, almost paternal in fact. The man seemed a bit ... simple, maybe. Definitely not of the same breeding as the likes of Arthur or Mordred or himself. But such men had their uses. Their blood was not sacred - it could be spilled for the right cause, their lives sacrificed for the right reasons, the right people. Amadeus gave him a brighter smile and nodded his head. "Thank you, Karl. I appreciate your confidence in me." he said, genuine in his appreciation for the man vocalising this. Perhaps, Amadeus thought, this good-humoured 'man-of-men' was the approach to take here at Badon Hill. It seemed to be endearing him to the men alot quicker than his earlier aloofness, his efforts at trying to lead them by being better than them, visibly better than them. The men were getting mounted all around him. Amadeus smiled in satisfaction at teh sight of them lining up. When the Sarmatians were not in the mix they started to look like a proper force rather than a rag-tag bunch of mercenaries. The Optio clicked his fingers towards Jols and gestured down the stables with a smile, starting forward and intending the man to walk with him. "Jols - take me to my horse, please." he even added the 'please' in keeping with his new-found love of being the men's best loved Optio. Mari and Drake
Mari was so caught up in talking about Milan that she didn't realies where they were going until Linnette stopped and informed her of why they were where they were. The young woman looked up from the bottom step of the infirmary and gave a start to realise that they were there. She took a moment to process Linnette's words and then felt her stomach do a flip. Not only was she going to be in the company of one of the current Sarmatian Knights, something that filled her with a sense of dread admiration for an unknown reason, she was also going to have to face him knowing he had lost his son, knowing that he had the look of his son enough that he was to be used as a model. Would that upset him? Anger him? What kind of man was he? The young woman puffed out her cheeks and followed Linnette inside. she paused when the hazel-eyed woman did,and looked over to the voice of a woman who sounded rather like Linnette. When she saw a blonde version of the woman in front of her, Mari did a double take. "Sisters.." she mumbled to herself, fascinated at the uncanny similarity between the two. She stood dutifully by the door as Linnette went over to her sister, smiling in their direction politely but not moving an inch until she was told to. Whilst she did so, Mari took a look around the place, feeling an uncomfortable stirring of memories from the back of her mind from the last time she was here, when she had been in teh back room with Alina and ... Mari cleared her throat, rakign a hand back through her knotted, curly hair. She licked her lips and rocked back on her heels, browsing teh people who were in the infirmary, glancing over towards Linnette and her sister. The tall man who stood there looked remarkably like he was carved out of stone, his expression unwavering as he looked between the two women. There were two young girls there. Mari brightened at the sight of children - she loved children - and waved her hand with a mouthed 'hello' to the littler of the two.
Drake tensed his jaw. He stood back and had a look of bitter 'I told you so' about him as he looked accusingly at Linnesse. He may not have known much about children but his dealings with Cassidy the past few days had led him to believe he had a kind of understanding of her - flawed though it was. Essentially he had a good idea of what she did and did not want to hear. He knew that she was waiting to be abandonned, it showed in the set of her shoulders, it showed in the tone of her voice. This was exactly what she was expecting to happen.
It was a low-blow, but Linnesse dealt it. She called in Linnette. Drake visibly withdrew, his emerald green eyes lowered at Cassidy who had her head bowed. He wanted to make eye-contact with her to communicate to her, somehow, that he wasn't going to be abandonning her, that he wanted to find somewhere for her to stay, to stay warm and safe and happy. Even if no one else had been around Drake still would not have been able to vocalise his intentions. It was just not his way. But regardless, perhaps she might have read it in his eyes? Or perhaps she would have just read what everyone else read in his eyes... menace. The auburn-haired sister came over and Drake lifted his chin, tensed his jaw visibly and waited. He looked at a point above Linnesse's head as she was standing in his direct line of view looking stoically at the wall. When she looked up at him he could feel it and did not lower his eyes at all. His jaw just locked that bit tighter, the tendons in his neck standing out vividly against his sun-darkened skin. When Linnesse started to speak, speaking as if he wasn't there, not even mentioning to Linnette that he had said he was looking into something, the Spaniard tensed his fists now, rolling his fingers against his palm noisily. The little terrier! And Linnette, of course, did not quetsion her sister at all, she did not even question why Drake stood by. The Spaniard knew when he was outranked. And two women against one man in the matter of two little orphans? Oh, he was outranked. Linnesse started to back off, murmuring something to Linnette that caused the younger sister to lift her hand to her stomach. Drake looked down at her questionningly, having not heard the mention of a lost baby, and then looked to her stomach worriedly. He realised what he had done and quickly looked away, catching the childish wave the rake Linnette brought in gave to Fleur. Wisely Drake kept quiet about the situation until Linnesse was out of earshot - only then did he turned his body towards Linnette and flexed his fingers outwards. His jaw remained a vivid mark of tension however, his eyes flinty. "I have an idea. For them." Drake indicated towards the two youngsters with a thumb, "I have to talk to someone first though. I can take them to the people they were staying with whilst I talk to those I need to talk to. If you have other... " Drake now indicted with an inclination of his head to where Dagonet sat up in bed, his red-headed lover beside the bed. They looked like they were readying to leave. |
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| golden_trillium | May 15 2010, 01:38 AM Post #246 |
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Author: golden_trillium Date: Mon Oct 27, 2008 8:00 pm Linnette
Drake's voice broke in on Linnette's momentarily troubled thoughts, and she started a bit in response; she had almost- almost forgotten he was there. Self-consciously she removed her hand from her stomach, trying for a smile of reassurance when she caught a momentary flash of worry on Drake's face. She was all right, the half-smile said- she was all right, though Linnesse's words had stirred unease in her heart. It was easy, so very easy, to lose a baby, either before birth or after, and what if this little scrap of Gedeon that she carried was not to live? What then? Linnette bit at the corner of her lip, clamping down on the worry that way, but almost immediately regretted it. Drake looked tense enough already, as was all too usual for him. The grim, iron set of his jaw made her want to reach up and lay her hand against his cheek, smooth it all out for him, but instead, she just consciously relaxed her own mouth, trying again for that bit of a smile.
"I..." Linnette glanced over in the direction Drake was indicating, noticing for the first time that though Dagonet and Saoirse were certainly in the infirmary, they looked like they were getting ready to go- sitting forward, Saoirse reaching for something that might have been a cloak, Dagonet making a gesture towards the door. Urgency siezed Linnette again- she had to talk to him before he left to God-knew-where- they had to get this portrait underway before it was too late! And Mari- Mari hadn't followed her, as Linnette had assumed that she would, but was still hovering by the door, looking lost and uncomfortable, and the last thing Linnette wanted was to alienate her precious artist. She turned back to Drake, eying him appealingly, apologetically for her haste. "That would be wonderful, Drake. I really do appreciate it." Her assurance was heartfelt, colored by both desperation to get on to other task, and relief, profound relief that he was taking care of this one for her. Had anyone, ever, been of so much assistance to her, been so solicitous and so kind? Linnette seriously doubted it- and unthinkingly her hand shot out and gave his forearm a quick, but indescribably grateful squeeze, before she turned to the girls. "Cassidy, Fleur? Drake's going to walk you home- I'll come see you later, all right?" Linnesse Satisfied that Linnette could take care of getting the girls home, Linnesse turned her steps quickly back towards Ione's door, worry squirming in her belly increasingly as she got closer. She had never meant to be gone from her patient that long- never meant to get drawn into talking with Drake for anything more than to dismiss him from the infirmary, but she had gotten unforgiveably sidetracked. If Ione wasn't all right...if something had befallen her in Linnesse's absence...the suspense and worry for Linnesse had reached nearly unbearable levels by the time she got to the almost-closed door, and as she pushed it open she was actually taking a breath to call for one of the nuns in alarm, almost sure that something terrible had occurred...but no. It seemed there was no need. The room was quiet within. Ione lay on the bed, asleep, her breathing visible, and the sad little corpse was not in evidence- Sister Margaret must have come back and taken it away. All was neat, the supplies just as they had been left, and as Linnesse came closer, practically tiptoing across the room, she saw that Ione was beginning to regain color in her cheeks, and that the speed of her breathing was normal. All seemed fine. Linnesse sighed hugely, her eyes closing and her shoulders sagging with relief. It was all right- it was all right. Ione was the same, if not better, than when she had left her. Feeling a bit unsteady on her feet, Linnesse stumbled a step backwards before her heels came in contact with the chair, the one Mirtha had been sitting on, and she allowed herself to collapse back into it, never taking her eyes from Ione. In, and out. In, and out. Ione breathed steadily, reassuringly, and gradually, Linnesse's tension drained away. It really did seem to be all right. She was even beginning to consider whether she ought to go back out into the big room and maybe walk the girls home after all, when Ione's sleep seemed to grow lighter- her eyelids fluttered as she breathed in, and she stirred slightly, as if searching for a more comfortable position on the bed. Linnesse froze, half-rising from the chair. If Ione was about to wake, should she wait for her? |
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| golden_trillium | May 15 2010, 01:39 AM Post #247 |
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Author: Starbelle Date: Mon Oct 27, 2008 8:04 pm Jols and Tayala Mounted comfortably on Gypsi's back, his horse in the line but not quite behind Brendyn's as he made sure that there was a space between Gypsi and Tyranus, his horse's reins held loosely in his hand as he too was going on the mission with the Commander.
Dismounting from Gypsi's back and being very careful not to kick any horse that he was next or could be next to or show his true feelings when the Optio snapped his fingers at him like one would do to get a pet dog's attention, he walked the few paces away from the rest of the group and seeing Tayala there motioned to her. "I'll do you one better, Scipio sir. We've got a new stable girl, she just arrived but knows her way around a stable, just like the back of her hand sir. She's young, but quick and efficient." The Squire said while polietly waiting for Tayala as she arrived with the Scipio's mount. Then turning on his heel, headed back over to his own horse and remounted patting Gypsi on the neck. "Here you are, My lord Optio. Your mount is all saddled and ready for the mission that Jols' told me about. He said that it was a very important one, so I made sure that your mount was ready to go when called for." The young girl said bobbing a quick curtsey in the Optio's direction as she patted the horse on his neck before handing him the reins. |
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| golden_trillium | May 15 2010, 01:40 AM Post #248 |
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Author: lady ione Date: Mon Oct 27, 2008 8:36 pm Ione Her hand still rested on her stomach even as she slept. She thought she had heard voices that sounded oddly distant. She stirred as her hand unconsciously rubbed over her stomach, then stopped. Everything was so peaceful...strangely calm. Then, she heard the door open. Ione stirred again, and murmured something sweet and with a smile, though to whoever had entered the room, it would not have made much sense. Shortly, though, the smile faded when she began to hear noises close to her bed like someone falling into the chair nearby. Slowly, she began to come to, her dark eyes opening as if from a very deep sleep, and stretched a bit. The pain was growing ever duller for which Ione was thankful. The visit Titrus had paid her had done a world of good making her forget some of the pain she had carried. He had even calmed her fears where Ian was concerned....that he'd be with the angels in heaven. That thought had comforted her and it made it easier to allow the nun to take the child to be buried. Her sleepy eyes opened to stare at the ceiling, and then turned her head to see Linnesse half risen out of the chair she had appearently been sitting in. Sister Margaret had not returned yet, and Ione was anxious to know where little Ian was buried, so that she could visit the grave from time to time. 'Linnesse ...' Ione whispered, her hand beginning to rub over her stomach, but as she did so, something happened that she had not expected. It was good to see the kind hearted healer back by the bedside. Besides Titrus and Sister Margaret, Linnesse had been a rock to her in this time, and she was forever greatful. 'I think, if it is okay ...I'd like to go and rest at my shop...' Ione was about to continue when she suddenly frowned in puzzlement. There seemed to be movement in her womb. Her hand cautiously ran over the area as if trying to keep track of the motions as they moved from one side of her stomach to the other. Ione felt a strange sensation, but could not place what she was feeling emotionally. Was her body playing tricks on her? Or had she been...was there? 'Linnesse....I-I...think there is another baby here,' Ione left her confusion show in her voice thinking that perhaps Linnesse was going to tell her that it was her imagination. The weaver's hand finally calmed the movement, and continued to look at the healer nearby. Had she really been carrying twins? Ione tried to think, and she recalled that there were twins on her mother and father's sides of the family...but there had been none on Javier's side of the family. Who's child or children was she carrying then? |
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| golden_trillium | May 15 2010, 01:42 AM Post #249 |
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Author: sabor ice Date: Tue Oct 28, 2008 2:17 am Kayley
"When do you not?" she mused at her chiding re-phrase of his rhetorical question. "Need I remind you of our last bonfire and Roan? I think you enjoyed frustrating him acting as my shadow all evening." The corner of her mouth gave a devious quirk. "I'll have you know he was a perfect gentleman," she continued, reaching to clasp his forearm when he reached for hers, and pulled her onto the back of Scáth. Kayley leaned in closely a moment to whisper into Smith's ear teasingly, "Maybe you could learn something from him." Of course, she was only joking. She would never want Smith to change, for her or anybody.
She gave a mock pout when he indicated dramatically to where she had playfully slapped his cheek (not that cheek). "Oh, I don't know. I'll think about it," she replied with a loveless sigh and roll of her eyes. "I suppose if it means that much to you, though - " she added a moment later, grinning up at him and absentmindedly reaching to brush stray dark strands from his face. "I guess I could protect you from Micah. But, then who will protect me?" She gave another mock pout, dropping her hand to his shoulder. Micah was her shadow when Smith was not. She had never minded having the dark blonde close - he had always been like her brother, more than anything. But, she wondered if someday he might want something more, if someday he might take the initiative to actually make an advance. He was harmless - and that was why Kayley would've rather skipped that entire awkward confrontation, if it were to ever arise - because she didn't want to hurt Micah's feelings. She loved him too much. As a brother.
With a gentle squeeze of his thighs, Smith urged Scáth onward. He surprised Kayley, though, reaching back and heartily slapping a hand to her strong thigh. She rebuked his audacity with a slap to his back, being mindful of his injury which seemed to plague the right side of his body more. She slipped an arm beneath his and lightly held onto him at his abdomen, leaning into him a moment as she rested her chin on his shoulder to peer around at his face. "You're sort of terrible, you know that?" Kayley chided, amused, and kissed his cheek, before settling back again. She glanced over her shoulder to see the others swiftly following them now. Kayley tried to catch Micah's eye, but soon gave up and turned back to look ahead. |
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| golden_trillium | May 15 2010, 01:43 AM Post #250 |
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Author: golden_trillium Date: Tue Oct 28, 2008 6:33 am Linnesse
Linnesse nodded sympathetically, subsiding back into the chair. "I think that would be fine. If you're..." she broke off suddenly, arrested by the look on Ione's face. The other woman had been rubbing her stomach, idly or in remembrance, Linnesse had assumed, but now, Ione's expression changed, becoming suddenly puzzled and confused. Linnesse leaned forward again, about to ask Ione what was wrong- but the other woman spoke first.
Another baby? Linnesse's eyes widened in surprise and renewed worry at her words. Surely that wasn't possible- it was far more likely that Ione's grief and fantasy were playing tricks on her- right? She leaned farther forward, propping her elbows on her knees, and studying Ione carefully, though she kept her voice carefully neutral. No point in raising false hopes...or allowing her own hopes to be raised. "What...why do you think so?" she asked softly, her head tilting to the side and her brows knitting together questioningly. |
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| golden_trillium | May 15 2010, 01:44 AM Post #251 |
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Author: lady ione Date: Tue Oct 28, 2008 8:33 am Ione Dark eyes watched as the healer sat back down in the chair. Ione was grateful that she had decided to stay as well as the knowledge that the woman agreed with her moving to the comfort of her shop. There was so much to finish as far as her work, and it'd take her mind off of the sorrow of losing her child. It had been shortly after Linnesse had answered her when the movement had started. Or had it been that way while she was sleeping as well? Ione saw the equally baffled look on the healer's face as she told her about the movement.... about there being another child. In honesty, Ione could hardly believe it herself as she had never heard of something like that ever happening. But she had felt the distinct movements much like the other baby had done. Their eyes locked as Linnesse moved forward a bit propping her elbows on her knees as if studying her curiously. Ione thought that perhaps the trauma of losing her child was causing her body to play tricks on her....thinking that she was still pregnant when she really was not. Ione's hand began to shake as she felt another movement, letting her hand follow the movement over to the other side....
Ione did not really know how to answer. Her voice was soft and a bit shaky as she spoke, 'I-I feel movement... here and then here... feel for yourself...' She reached out her free hand to the other woman inviting Linnesse to feel the movement as well and assess for herself what she thought was happening. Last night, she had been in terrible pain, and then had lost the child she had so desperately wanted... were the gods rewarding her for letting Ian go to be with them then? |
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| golden_trillium | May 15 2010, 02:03 AM Post #252 |
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Author: golden_trillium Date: Tue Oct 28, 2008 12:04 pm Linnesse
"Really?" Still thoroughly puzzled, but intrigued, Linnesse scooted forward to the edge of the chair, and, as invited, placed her flat hand over Ione's stomach, very, very lightly- it seemed that any harder pressure might disturb things, might even be dangerous. Ione's stomach was gently rounded, much like Linnette's was now, but if anything, a little bigger. Would it still be like that, only hours after losing a child, or did it indicate continuing pregnancy? Linnesse bowed her head in concentration, feeling for the movement Ione had described- was that a flutter, just there? Linnesse couldn't be sure- it was so slight, so small it might very well have been her imagination playing tricks on her. Taking a deep breath, she made bold enough to press her hand just a little further against Ione's belly, enough that she could feel the warmth of her skin through her dress...but this time, nothing. Nothing that she could feel. But then again, she couldn't feel Linnette's baby, either- neither could Linnette herself, yet, and surely her sister was farther along than Ione was- right? "I...I don't know." Linnesse removed her hand and retreated, sitting back into the chair and speaking in a very soft, hushed voice- as though anything louder might cause some adverse effect. "I don't even know if that's possible- do you want me to ask Sister Margaret what she thinks?" Linnesse made to get up from her chair again, but inside her, she was steeling herself for what she thought the nun would probably say- that the "movement" was no more than wishful thinking on Ione's part. Ione would need more comforting, then, and Linnesse had to be ready to provide whatever she could- even if that was little enough. |
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| golden_trillium | May 15 2010, 02:04 AM Post #253 |
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Author: LadyCastus Date: Tue Oct 28, 2008 1:31 pm Neeria Things moved very quickly. Lancelot and Tristan eased their grips only slightly on the small woad woman. Before she knew it, she was pulled out of the cell and into the narrow corridor. The light streaked in through a nearby window, nearly blinding her as she'd been in the dark so long. Neeria squeezed her eyes shut. The men in the corridor seemed even taller and more ominous to her as she and the knights, Arthur and Neeve walked past cells, making their way toward the entrance. Neeve, the healer, and rushed to catch up with Arthur who strode confidently in the front of the procession, his long cape slightly billowing as he walked straight and erect. Neeria looked up at his broad shoulders and the back of his curly head. He seemed massive to her. She still was not used to his presence. Neeve was talking to Arthur, but Neeria couldn't hear what they were saying. It probably wasn't pleasant, whatever it was. Neeve didn't seem thrilled with the order of charge over Neeria. Neeria looked briefly to her right side, at the dark knight, whose face was scowled and tight. Lancelot seemed to want to put his feet through the stone floor of the prison as he walked, stomping loudly, his footfalls echoing throughout the dungeon.
The scout's words caught Neeria's attention and she looked quickly to her left. Tristan glanced at her too but his face was as stoic as usual, his eyes hidden by his thick bangs and his thin lips in a straight line. One braid laid on his cheek as he stared down at Neeria. Was he talking about Eala? Did they catch Eala and Ash? Neeria thought with horror. But Tristan stopped talking, probably not wanting to give up information in front of Neeria. The woad chewed on her bottom lip then she tripped, landing on her knee. Her feet were freezing cold. She gathered herself up and kept walking until they finally made it out of the stinking hell hole of the dungeons and into the daylight. Neeria breathed a breath of fresh air. |
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| golden_trillium | May 15 2010, 02:33 AM Post #254 |
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Author: Elessars Girl Date: Tue Oct 28, 2008 1:56 pm Arthur
Arthur had briefly cut his green eyes at Lancelot before turning to walk away. The Commander knew his lieutenant would follow his directives despite the sarcasm. But Arthur would have a ‘word’ with Lancelot before he rode out today….I have forgotten NOTHING between us….I will shield you from harm at all costs. Do you not understand this? Do you not understand what you still mean to me? God forgive me, but I need you……still. Arthur held his head high and walked with purposeful steps; hobnailed boots clicking on the cobblestone as he led the small party onward. Excalibur lightly slapped against the side of his leather-clad leg in the motion and Arthur silently prayed....for peace and for his own forgiveness....Arthur’s cuirass felt tight against his chest today as if the weight of his command were pressing down upon the Roman as he walked.
“Of course,” Arthur gave the Briton permission to continue as she came to walk closely at his side. He knew Neeve well and that she’d speak her mind whether he had agreed to hear it or not. She could easily be of Sarmatian decent rather than Briton - with having many of the same stubborn traits as the knights and Darya.
“Your concerns are noted, and you may fuss over me upon my return,” Arthur answered while glancing over at Neeve with clarity both in his tone and in his intensely green eyes…..and perhaps just a hint of sarcasm in the latter part of his words. “Take the girl now and clean her up – treat her as needed – Lancelot will see to it that Derfel is along presently to guard her,” The Commander concluded his instructions for Neeve, quite evident in his expression were his trust and confidence in the healer’s abilities in managing to follow through with Arthur’s orders. And while he did appreciate Neeve’s apprehensions (and her honesty in voicing them), Arthur had had enough of all those around him speaking to him as if he were incompetent. Did they not know him at all? Arthur had ridden into battles with far worse wounds than this one – his right hand lifted to cover over his injured side as he walked - facing Merlin would require wit not weapons. Yet Arthur was no fool, he had dealt with the Woads nearly his entire life. He knew what he faced today.
At hearing the scout’s gravelly voice from behind, Arthur glanced back over his shoulder at Tristan curious as to what the man had to say. Tristan rarely spoke out on anything, thus when he did it was typically important…and Arthur paid attention. The Commander squinted against the nearly mid day light as the group immerged from the dungeons and he was poised to extract from Tristan whatever that it was on the scout’s mind when he heard Lancelot interject:
Expecting that what counsel Tristan may wish to divulge would not be information that Neeria should be privy to, Arthur decided to divide the group before hearing it. “Tristan, Lancelot….hand the girl over to Neeve….you both shall remain with me,” Arthur said, his authority clear and his tone once again would brook no argument. The Commander then picked up his pace as they rounded the final corner that would lead them to the stables and hopefully an awaiting contingent of men that would accompany Arthur on his ride. “Tristan,” Arthur said the man’s name while he slightly gestured with his right hand for the scout to walk at his side. “What of this Woad from yesterday?” He asked the moment Neeve and Neeria were some distance away, not entirely sure if Tristan was speaking of Neeria or another Woad. But either way the information may be of importance to Arthur, especially before he rode in search of Merlin. |
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| golden_trillium | May 15 2010, 02:38 AM Post #255 |
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Author: Pinkie Date: Tue Oct 28, 2008 3:59 pm Catherine
On such a cold day, the feeling of warm breath against her ear and traversing the tender skin of her neck was something divine. Catherine smiled and it was not a tihng she had to feign at all. It was a sumptuous smile, delighted and confident, her eyelashes lowered to contrast darkly against her pale skin. Her job was not such that one could be proud, but at least it was a warm job! His tongue touched agianst her earlobe unexpectedly and Catherine hitched in a breath. She pulled her head back and glanced up at the Captain with mild rebuke, though there was no venom in the look. Merely chastising him for his impatience.
Catherine rocked back on her heels, green eyes narrowing slightly at the boy,Henry. She gave him a pretty smile when he glanced at her. The blonde looked as if she paid not a bit of attention to what it was that the Captain ordered, but once he turned to offer her his elbow, Catherine simpered a smile and took it, gently laying her beautiful hand against the man's forearm, her fingertips just touching the exposed skin at his wrist. She walked in next to him, turning to give him a small smile as she gestured to a booth off in one corner of the tavern, set almost behind the front counter. It was quiet - and it's only downfall was that it was not in the direct line of heat from the fire, tucked away on the opposite side of the tavern, but at least it was private. Catherine sat and reached up to open the brooch holding her cloak on. Her red bodice was hugging her form tightly, the brown skirts full and lucious. The blonde slid the cloak down behind her and leaned blew delicately on her cold fingers, looking at the Captain from beneath a fine row of eyelashes. "Dare I presume that imprisoned stablemasters have nothing to do with angels or dreams in your life, Captain Barbattus?" she said his name casually, letting him know that she knew precisely who he was. And letting him wonder if she had asked somenoe who he was or if she had come to know his name and face through her work dealings. Amadeus
Amadeus dipped his head as he followed Jols. He raised an eyebrow at the mention of a new stable girl, idly wondering why the man thought the fort's Optio might be interested in such a minor piece of news. He did not utter a word of what he thought though, merely shrugged one broad shoulder and came to stand before a child. Nothing more than a child. Jols indicated the child and turned to go back to his own horse, leaving him with her. She was unpleasant and was at least true to her word in having his horse ready for him, but the Optio couldn't help but glance over his shoulder at Jols in mild rebuke. Imbecile. Leaving the Optio with a mere stablegirl and leaving the readying of the Optio's horse with a mere stablegirl!? It was ludicrous. But Amadeus bit his tongue. He couldn't give up this new found trick of winning people's affections by his generosity. He ran his tongue against his teeth and gave a tight smile to the child. He reached a gloved hand out for the reins and gingerly took them, glancing at the dark eyes of his gelding. "That's a good girl." he said to the child, and had the decency to flip her a copper for her troubles, giving her a small smile that some might describe as condescending. Though it was nto this explicitly. Amadeus was walking back towards teh group with his horse in tow when a thought struck him. He turned back to the child and looked around his horse towards her, narrowing his grey eyes in thought as he looked down the line of horses. "Girl - there are two other horses in the stall next to mine. A mulish grey and a fine legged grey also. See to them for me, hm?" he asked, rooting in his pouch for another coin for her. Wybert and Rowan's horses... the man gave a wry smile, his grey eyes sparkling a moment in fond memory of the red-head. He took a deep breath, a tinge of sadness in his eyes then as he met the child's - "Walk the finer of the two - do not ride her, she's tempermental at best. Feed and brush them both for me." he asked with a superior smile to her. Rowan's horse would make a beautiful gift to Linnesse, Amadeus thought to himself. Smith
Smith snorted at her suggestion that he might be more a gentleman. His eyebrows had descended into a dark 'v' as he tried to recall which bonfire, and which of the hangers-on that Kayley attracted had been Roan. His lips pursed and his right arm fell loose against his side, hand upturned on his thigh as he rested the limb to alleviate the strain on his collarbone. His left hand held the make-do reins that he used - bits of rope, trailed through his long fingers. He knew Kayley wouldn't change him. Because no matter what happened between them or between anyone else they always inevitably had each other. Smith did not rely on anyone, he did not gravitate towards anyone - but there was an obvious kinship between him and Kayley. They didn't spend all that much time at their mothers house, given that they were usually off on patrols or hunting, but regardless of this there was a common bond there. Smith was happy to take anyone up onto his horse with him - Kayley always proved to be the most uncomfortable up there with him.
Smith had his head turned to the side to look at Kayley's expressions as she chided him, her cutting sarcasm making him grin even moreso. "Scáth." he replied without hesitation. As if in agreement, the black horse gave a loud and resounding snort, lowering his massive head to the ground, tugging at the reins a little. Smith leaned forward a little, tensing his knees inwards a fraction to give the horse a little more guidance then sat back comfortably. Kayley's hand went about his abdomen and he looked down at her sprawled fingers. A frown twitched over his forehead, his expression becoming inexplicably intense.
Her words were almost lost on him so softly were they spoken. She kissed his cheek and sat back - Smith turned his cheek to his shoulder and looked at her out of the corner of his eye. He smiled fondly and breathed a laugh through his nostrils, still looking rather intense for no obvious reason. "Yeah." he replied to her question. Suddenly Smith turned to face her, his eyebrows deeply set between his eyes and his face incredulous. His movements were awkward, having to move his entire upper body instead of just turning his head, and even still it drew a pained hiss from him as he stared at Kayley. "Was Roan that wimp of a man that gave you the flowers?" he asked in amused outrage, suddenly recalling which man Roan was. Smith scoffed and shook his head, turning back to face front. He clicked his tongue to Scáth, urging the horse onwards past the others who had set off. He kept the horse far to the side so as not to disturb the others, but gave those who looked up a nod of his head in greeting as he went past. "Your taste in men is atrocious, Kayley, if that is what warms your blood in a man." Smith muttered to her over his shoulder, a devious, playful edge to his tone as they struck out ahead of the others, scouting ahead a few yards to ensure no surprises awaited them. |
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