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October 2008
Topic Started: May 1 2010, 05:17 PM (3,217 Views)
golden_trillium

Admin
Author: LadyCastus
Date: Tue Oct 07, 2008 7:18 pm
Karl


Karl ached to take a drink from the flask tucked neatly
beneathly his hauberk. But he thought better of it with so
many people around. He'd get a sip as soon as they rode out.
He licked his lips in anticipation. Just as he rounded Brutus
to get him warmed up, Karl picked up pieces of a conversation,
between the female Sarmatian and Jols, apparently about Karl
and the comment he'd made.

Darya
 
“Ignore him…he doesn’t know what he’s talking about, no
doubt…”


Jols
 
"Oh I plan to, Darya. No doubt there. Since he doesn't
seem to like the way that I did it, I'll let him do his
own horse from now on as there are a few knights' and
soldiers' horses that I don't do. Although, I bet that
if a child did do it he'd still say the same thing."


Darya
 
“You are probably right about that. Keep me updated on
how he handles the new situation then…”


Jols
 
"I take it that you've run into him before? Be careful
around him, ok, Darya. Don't want you getting hurt at
his hands. I'd have to answer to the Commander then if
something did."


Darya
 
“Well, in all truth, so far I’ve preferred to avoid
him...but thank you for your concern, Jols… I’ll
certainly keep it in mind. The same goes for you
though…try to not get into too much trouble. Especially
not with him.


"Well, it seems like you two sure are worried about
something," Karl said snidely, startling both Jols and Darya
with his sudden appearance.

"And what might that be, eh? And why would the commander give
a damn about what happens to a Sarmatian?" he asked, pulling
Brutus' reigns so that the horse was right next to Darya. The
large beast stared at her with dark black eyes. Brutus snorted
at the dark-haired Sarmatian, shaking his thick mane and
stamping his mighty right hoof. Karl laughed.

"Maybe he doesn't like you," he said to her. "I know he
doesn't like ole Jols over there. Come on boy," Karl said,
clicking his tongue against the roof of his mouth.

Karl walked toward the barn doors but stopped short at the
entrance and looked back over his shoulder.

"You should watch what you say. You never know who's
listening." The Roman snickered and walked his horse outside.









Malcus Barbattus and Titrus

Malcus followed Titrus and Quintus out of building. When
Quintus took off, apparently to his room to get dressed,
Malcus caught up with Titrus.

"Lieutenant!" Malcus called out.

Titrus, surprised, turned around. "Yes, captain!" he
responded, inwardly cringing. Surely Barbattus didn't want to
lay him out more.

"Look Titrus," Malcus said, "The past few days have been hell
for all of us, including me. I'll be working in the stables
while you and the others are gone. I've gone my own
responsibilities that I have to answer for."

The captain cleared his throat as the two men started walking
toward the stables. Titrus had wondered why Barbattus was not
in uniform and based on what the captain just revealed, Titrus
put two and two together. Malcus had his own punishment to
endure.

"Keep your nose clean, Titrus and watch out for Scipio. He's a
sneaky bastard. You'll have to be my eyes and ears for
Arthur's sake. There's something about that..." Malcus caught
himself, "the optio...that I can't put my finger on. Arthur is
not as well as he claims. You are the senior officer so make
sure Karl stays in line. Help Brendyn if he needs it. I wish I
could go with you, but I can't. Watch Mordred too. If hell
breaks loose, you can count on Karl. Of that I'm sure. But
Titrus, you must have Arthur's back."

"Yes captain, I understand. Do you think Merlin will be
aggressive?"

Malcus thought on that for a moment. The woad leader may be
impatient. Arthur was taking a big risk, not being at his
best. "I'm not really sure, Titrus. All the more for you to be
on your toes."

As they approached the stables, Karl was on his way out with
his horse. Malcus nodded and held the door open for Titrus to
enter.
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golden_trillium

Admin
Author: Lancelot
Date: Tue Oct 07, 2008 7:34 pm
Lancelot


Arthur's touch on his hand again made Lancelot bite his lip
and shove away the illicit thoughts that swam inside his
already busy head; the damn fucking 'feelings' that hadn't
wanted to go away for weeks now pointing and laughing at him
like children as the Roman finally let go and moved away to
fully dress now that his bandage was road-ready.

Children. Gods.

Arthur
 
“Yes, my child….and I am as surprised by this news as
you are, my friend,”


Lancelot tried to hold back a snort, but only succeeded in
sounding like he was choking. Arthur pulled his tunic over his
head, and turned back to face Lancelot, and as the Roman
stared at him, Lancelot saw something pass over his face that
also seemed to have taken up residence on Lancelot's.
Disbelief? Worry? Anger - no.

Betrayal.

A buzzing noise filled the Sarmatian's exhausted ears; he
licked his dry lips and saw, imprinted darkly on the back of
his mind's eye, images of Darya and Arthur, raising a child
that Lancelot would have to see every day, would have to talk
to and look at and admire and be reminded every single fucking
minute of why he'd decided to give up his .... attachment to
Arthur.

I cannot give you what you want.

He remembered physically shoving Darya into Arthur's arms; he
could feel the woman's soft and strong frame in his hands as
he passed her to Arthur.

To the only person who'd made Lancelot feel as if he
might...just perhaps...could be more than swords and a cocky
grin and loneliness.

Arthur
 
“What am I missing here, Lancelot? Is the child even
mine? Is there any chance this child is yours? Tell me
Lancelot…I must know the truth,”


A tinkling sound was Lancelot's whole world; the glass around
him - that wall of impenetrable strength and aloofness that
only one person other than his Elaine had been allowed to see
inside - shattered with what seemed to be an earsplitting
crash. His eye closed briefly, and then opened. He took the
two steps that separated them, and stared as best he could
into Arthur's molten, burning gaze. The other man's voice
might not have changed, but Lancelot knew him.

Showdown, my own Arthur.

"I have never. Fucked your woman, Arthur. I gave her to you
because I couldn't provide what you need. Gods - don't you
remember that? Don't you remember?"

His voice was steady, but as if it were made from pure acid;
it was Lancelot's own heart that melted and was destroyed in
the stench and burn of his ire.

Eyla.

Catherine.

Damned Galahad and his sense of honor!

Gawain, the look of distrust that colored the blond's face as
he had looked at Lancelot.

The fuckin nun, of all people!

Arthur's white face, his wound pumping blood onto the ground,
and Lancelot hadn't been there to protect him.

Had Arthur even wanted him there?

I think you are afraid. But not of me.

Those green eyes, narrowed in their anger and hurt, sliced
through whatever sense Lancelot had left. The trembling that
had begun in his hands spread to his arms and torso, and he
raised his fists, the fingers clenching - by the gods, he
wanted to slam them into Arthur's face - that face, he'd never
forget it, ever - so badly -

with a gutteral moan, he turned, and grabbing up the goblet
he'd given Arthur earlier, he hurled the crockery thing into
the stone wall, the explosion of wine and pottery echoing
weirdly in Lancelot's ears - now that the protective glass he
wore was gone. Shattered into a thousand pieces by one man,
and one tiny idea.

A child.
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golden_trillium

Admin
Author: Starbelle
Date: Tue Oct 07, 2008 8:37 pm
Jols


The last time someone was able to sneak up and startle Jols
like that was when he was still a teen-ager and had been the
target of a lot of the other apprentices' mean jokes.

Karl
 
"Well, it seems like you two sure are worried about something.  And what might that be, eh? And why would the commander give a damn about what happens to a Sarmatian?  Maybe he doesn't like you," "I know he doesn't like ole Jols over there. Come on boy,""You should watch what you say. You never know who's listening."


"Who said that we were worried about something?" The Squire
muttered curiously. Glancing over at the dark-haired in
concern, Jols asked "Are you ok, Darya? Not hurt anywhere, I
hope?" He asked after he loosely wrapped his arms carefully
but in a loose enough hug for comfort that she could pull out
of easily, mentally kicking himself for not anticipating or
foreseeing anything that might happen suddenly or
unexpectedly.

Hoping to lighten the situation, Jols tried for a bit of
comedy to diffuse anything that Karl's action was trying to
ignite with that little stunt.

"Since when did he manage to start speaking in Horse, hmm?
Cause I definetly sure don't." "Well, that takes care of that,
then. His horse is off my list of those that I take care of
permanently."

Glancing around to make sure that he was gone, he spoke in a
very low tone. "There's a girl who works here, I think that
I'll transfer him and his horse for her to take care of." He
said with a definetive nod.
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golden_trillium

Admin
Author: lady ione
Date: Tue Oct 07, 2008 9:43 pm
Ione


The closeness of her child had calmed Ione's sobs though there
was still a great amount of sadness still left within her.
Ione knew little tiny Ian was dead, but just to the fact that
she could hold the tiny figure in her arms gave Ione some time
with her son: to talk to it and let him know things that he'd
never hear...like "I love you, little Ian". Everything seemed
so distant and lonely, even the sound of Mirtha's voice, and
through her dark eyes, Ione could see Linnesse and Sister
Margret still close as well. Everything seemed blurred, or
were they the tears in her eyes? The realization that she had
to let her child go to be with the gods haunted her, but right
now all she wanted was this: to just hold him. It was a
comfort to know that Linnesse was close by her side, the arm
going about Ione's shoulder in a protective manner. Ione had
begun to think that the nun was going to take Ian from her,
and she had been ready to fight the nun off...or with what
strength she had left in her. But the nun made no such move,
but instead had raised her hands as if she meant no harm, and
stepped back a bit...

Sister Margaret
 
“It’s all right, child- hold him a little longer.
There’s no rush.” “I’m going to go get someone to
start…” “It’ll take a while, cold as it is,” “Let her
hold him if she wants, and keep an eye on the bleeding-
a little trickle more is all right now, but it
definitely shouldn’t increaseGet someone right away if
it does."


Ione kept her dark eyes on the nun, and wondered what she had
whispered to Linnesse before she had left the room, but Ione
was beyond exhausted and just wanted to sleep with her son in
her arms. Yes, she had stopped crying, but the overwhelming
sense of sorrow that had built up in her as well as a feeling
of lonliness refused to leave. Her eyes moved to the confused
face of Mirtha, who had been silent through the ordeal...at
least she had not heard anything from him. Ione closed her
eyes and snuggled the little form near to her and kissed it's
forehead lovingly. Ian would be sorely missed, and Ione even
wondered if Javier would have stayed with her knowing that
this had happened. Men, so she had heard, liked women who bore
strong healthy children, not dead ones. The young weaver
closed her eyes as it was hard to keep them opened, and a face
came to her mind, but it was not one she expected. Her lips
moved against the soft skin of the baby, and she whispered,
'...Titrus...' it was all she murmured. For a long time, the
Lieutenant had come into her shop to buy clothing and blankets
as well as cloaks or to have his cloak repaired. Ione had
always thought he was a nice sort of guy, and she thought him
a good friend. She murmured his name again, softer as she
recalled that he had forfitted some sleep to stay with her
after he and Quintus had brought her in.

It meant a lot to know that they cared...

Mirtha
 
"Fuck"


Linnesse
 
“Um…er…sir?” “Perhaps someone…er…one of us should…um…get
Aidan if Ione wants to see him? I know who he is.”


Ione heard the two converse, and as much as she wanted to, she
was beyond exhausted, her body ached from the stress of
pushing, and her soul was sick with sorrows...more than she
had ever thought she would have in her life. Slowly, she
turned her head into the blanket that held her son, and
slipped away into a deep dark sleep while murmuring to her
tiny son, then she began to hum as the sleep took her deeper.
In her thoughts the face of a handsome lieutenant comforted
her like the good friend he was.....









Brendyn

Darya
 
"Ignore him..." "He doesn't know what he is talking
about, no doubt..."


Jols
 
"Oh I plan to, Darya. No doubt there. Since he doesn't seem to like the way that I did it, I'll let him do his own horse from now on as there are a few knights' and soldiers' horses that I don't do." "Although, I bet that if a child did do it he'd still say the same thing.  I take it that you've run into him before?" "Be careful around him, ok, Darya. Don't want you getting hurt athis hands. I'd have to answer to the Commander then if something did."


Brendyn was not oblivious to what was being said, but he also
kept up on checking over everything as many times as possible
wanting Tyranus to be as comfortable as he was. He did not
know this Karl fellow, but from what Jols and Darya were
saying, he was not one to be trifled with, though, as
Brendyn's memory refused to let him forget, he had dealt with
Karl's kind before. The young soldier said nothing, but was
ready to act if this Karl caused harm to either Darya or Jols.
He kept an ear open while he went about checking in a saddle
bag on his left to make sure the items were in there that were
needed: a blanket in case it took more than a days ride,
though he doubted it, but it was good to be prepared for such
things, and some bandages and some medical things just in
case. If the Commander was still injured, then he'd need some
attention not doubt...

Darya
 
“You are probably right about that," “keep me updated on
how he handles the new situation then…” “Well, in all
truth, so far I’ve preferred to avoid him…” “…but thank
you for your concern, Jols… I’ll certainly keep it in
mind.” “The same goes for you though…try to not get into
too much trouble. Especially not with him…”


Brendyn looked up from his work and arose to his full height
with an inward frown. It seemed this Karl had very few friends
and Brendyn could see why. What he failed to understand was
why a man like that was allowed to come on this mission if he
was such a bad egg? Antonius would never have allowed it, and
would have rather killed a soldier that acted like that then
keep him in the legion, but perhaps this man was good at
fighting, which, right now, Brendyn didn't doubt a bit. The
young soldier was suddenly alerted inwardly as Karl began to
speak his piece. Even his voice was not the friendliest, and
was akin to the soft hissing of a snake about to strike.
Brendyn moved over to where he had placed his dagger next to
his sword, and pulled it out to inspect the knick in the
blade, then tested it for sharpness. Nothing was worse than
going anywhere with a dull blade. Satisfied, he placed it back
in the sheath...

Karl
 
"Well, it seems like you two sure are worried about
something," "And what might that be, eh? And why would
the commander give a damn about what happens to a
Sarmatian?" "Maybe he doesn't like you," "I know he
doesn't like ole Jols over there. Come on boy," "You
should watch what you say. You never know who's
listening."


Jols
 
"Who said that we were worried about something?" "Are
you ok, Darya? Not hurt anywhere, I hope?" "Since when
did he manage to start speaking in Horse, hmm? Cause I
definetly sure don't." "Well, that takes care of that,
then. His horse is off my list of those that I take care
of permanently." "There's a girl who works here, I think
that I'll transfer him and his horse for her to take
care of."


The soldier cringed inwardly as Jols began to jest carelessly
in reply to the unfriendly soldier. Brendyn used every bit of
his self control not to go out and just whollop the tartly man
for such ill manneredness, and he also felt that verbally
jousting with this man was not worth it. The man had not
harmed Darya and Jols, and though words hurt, it was better
than being attacked with a knife. Tyranus made no move toward
showing what he felt about the man who had spoke. Bullies such
as this one needed to be dealt with, and he was the type of
man Brendyn was not afraid to kill if he placed anyone in
harms way. Karl was not far off when, Tyranus left a huge
present for the nasty soldier and his ill mannered horse.
Brendyn almost laughed, but thought it best not to. The timing
was comical to say the least. He looked from Darya to Jols,
and then made one last check over everything leaving only one
thing left to do, and that was mount up. Just as a stable boy
came to clean up Tyranus's gift to Karl, Brendyn saw Malcus
and Titrus enter the stables. Brendyn moved to the front of
the black arab mix, and held the reins easily, stood at
attention, ready for Titrus to go over the horse's trappings,
and to make sure that Brendyn was ready to go. Tyranus looked
ahead, his ears perked forward at the sight of the two men,
then turned his head slightly to nudge anxiously at Brendyn's
arm. The black horse nickered and pawed lightly at the ground
in front of him as if eager for whatever adventure awaited he
and his young master...
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golden_trillium

Admin
Author: sabor ice
Date: Wed Oct 08, 2008 3:51 am
Ash


Her reaction surprised him, although it probably shouldn’t
have so much. Or rather he felt suddenly alienated from the
comfort zone he had established with the girl. He hadn’t
programmed into his mind what to do in the instance of a
melt-down on her part, probably because it was rare to see
Eala so emotional. That was why her reaction had surprised
him. Ash wasn’t the only one who often treated Eala like an
adult. It sometimes eluded him, the fact that she remained,
above all else, still just a child beneath all of her bravado.
And, now that Eala was actually acting the part of a child -
sobbing and clinging to him for some sort of comfort or
re-assurance or direction - Ash found himself casting an
uncomfortable glance over Eala’s head toward others nearby, a
part of him hoping they would know what to do now, because he
sure as hell didn’t.

Initially, Ash just went for the re-assurance route, giving
Eala a light pat to the back, hoping it would be suffice. And,
then she started BAWLING into his tunic! She started shaking
her head as her whole tiny body convulsed with stifled sobs.
To anyone who didn’t know her personally, they might not have
been able to identify the girl’s silent plea. Ash had known
her long enough, had spent enough time around her, that he
knew what she wanted now - at least he thought he did. She
wanted a moment and clearly out of the public eye. Who could
blame her?

He made to pull away, but the threat of deflection seemed to
intensify her hold around his waist. Ok, so that wasn’t going
to work…but they couldn’t just keep standing there…and he was
by means in no shape to be hefting the ten year old, at least
not as long as she had two legs and could walk on her own.
With a sigh, Ash wrapped a secure arm around her shoulders -
keeping her close and her face tactfully still hidden within
the folds of his tunic - and led her away from the scene, back
to the ancient birch tree where they had slept the last night.

“Listen - “ he began after sitting the little Woad down and
carefully hunkering down before her, coaxing her to lift her
tear-filled black onyx eyes to meet his gaze. Ash doubted what
he was about to say would comfort Eala much, but it was all he
had. “We’ll be home soon…” he reached out with a gentle hand
to lift her chin and managed a small wry smile. “…you and I…we
haven’t done so bad together…have we now...?”
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golden_trillium

Admin
Author: Elessars Girl
Date: Wed Oct 08, 2008 2:14 pm

Arthur


Lancelot closed the small distance between them – the man’s
good eye dark as pitch and brimming with a fury that was no
doubt about to be unleashed on Arthur for making such an
accusation. But was it the truth? Arthur had to know it – no
matter how painful.

He met Lancelot’s gaze with his own unflinching and steely
composure while the Sarmatian spoke….

Lancelot
 
"I have never. Fucked your woman, Arthur. I gave her to
you because I couldn't provide what you need. Gods -
don't you remember that? Don't you remember?"


Arthur was acutely aware of Lancelot’s tightened fists slowly
rising at the other man’s sides. But Arthur stood his ground.
He had had to know the truth. Yet it was not that particular
confirmation that had Arthur’s gut painfully twisting as if
caught in a vise….

I cannot give you what you want.

Arthur’s mouth fell open as if he intended to speak, but no
sound would come…no words could articulately express the
torrent of emotions whirling about inside of Arthur’s head and
heart. Arthur had not chosen Darya so that he could father a
child with her where he could not with…..was that what
Lancelot thought? Did Lancelot think Arthur so vain? Did the
Sarmatian know him at all after all their long years together?

For Arthur, it had never been about any need for a family of
his own. He did not deserve such a precious thing as that. And
quite frankly, Arthur still had not clearly been able to
understand why Lancelot had offered Darya that day. Arthur
remembered it as if Lancelot was giving the Roman a gift – a
possession – in the exchange. And that moment had been the
turning point where Arthur had allowed Darya back into his
heart….but not without trepidation.

Everything began to move in slow motion. Arthur’s eyes
followed the path of the goblet as Lancelot flung the vessel
across the room. He watched the wine stain the wall as the
goblet shattered against it….bloody red streaks followed after
the splintered pieces of the goblet to the floor. And then
nothing – no fist to his jaw and no more accusations.

I cannot give you what you want.

“I remember it clearly….” Arthur finally said as his focus
returned to Lancelot’s battered expression; albeit quietly and
with no less emotion than was trembling throughout his whole
body. That icy wall of armour that the Sarmatian typically
wore seemed to be missing now. Lancelot appeared to be every
bit as vulnerable as the Roman…at this moment.

What am I not seeing?

Arthur’s wounded side then twinged – effectively reminding the
Commander of his physical weaknesses and the ‘here and now’.
Duty demanded Arthur’s attention. Matters of the heart would
have to wait.

“Can I count on you to do what is needed in my absence?”
Arthur said aloud despite meaning….What do you truly want,
Lancelot? Every fiber of his being was screaming out at Arthur
to reach for the other man. Settle this once and for all. But
Arthur being ‘Arthur’, the Roman made a small sound much like
a bitter sigh as he forced himself to turn away from the only
person that had ever reached that place deep inside where
Arthur’s true soul lived.

I cannot give you what you want.

“And that was my favorite goblet.” He added facetiously while
turning to the chest of clothing again….and retrieving a pair
of black leather trousers.
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golden_trillium

Admin
Author: Kay
Date: Thu Oct 09, 2008 12:55 am
Guinevere


Guinevere watched silently as her father swiftly ended Mona's
life. She felt numb; she and Mona had fought together, side by
side, sisters in arms, but the sickness in Mona's mind had
taken away the fearless warrior and replaced her with someone
that the princess did not recognise.

The blade flashed; blood gushing from her neck, Mona fell.
Guinevere turned her face away. For all the lives she had
ended herself, seeing one of her comrades die left a bad taste
in her mouth. She walked away from the scene, wanting to be
alone for a moment. This was not how a warrior should die;
there was no glory here, but it was necessary. Mona had become
a danger to them all. The princess drew a deep breath and
mouthed a silent prayer. Then she squared her shoulders and
prepared to continue on their journey.
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golden_trillium

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Author: golden_trillium
Date: Thu Oct 09, 2008 9:20 am
Merlin


"We go on." Merlin's firm, unquestioned order rang through the
makeshift camp, even as Mona's blood still trickled out onto
the ground. They were all awake and the sun was up- there was
no more reason to wait any more. And who knew whether Castus
would send anyone else after them today, either to talk, or to
attack. He bent down, wiped his knife blade off on the dead
Mona's tunic edge, and then sheathed it, sliding the blade
home with a soft scrape.

"You, you, you..." Merlin pointed out about eight Woads,
almost half of the group, the ones which to his mind looked
most rested. "You will backtrack this morning to the campsite
and bury our brethren who fell there, if you can. Be cautious;
Castus may send out more men. If you cannot reach the campsite
safely, then commend their souls to the Gods with a prayer and
return to us. As for the traitor..." he looked down at Mona's
body and prodded it once with his toe.

"You and you- " Two more. "Take her body back into the bushes
and leave her. Let the beasts have her. Then we march on to
the village." Without further discussion, Merlin crouched and
began to roll up his own bedroll, as around him all the rest
of the camp began to go about their duties of breaking camp
and getting ready for another march. At least they had had a
little rest, albeit in the cold, in relatively unprotected
conditions. Arriving back at the village was going to feel
very good- for all of them.

Merlin's eyes fell worriedly on Guinevere for a moment- how
was she taking this? She and Mona had been close, once. The
Woad leader tightened the cord rolling his bedroll a last
time, and then made his way over to his daughter, stepping
around people and objects and general busyness as he went.

"Guinevere." He spoke quietly, coming up somewhat behind her.
A short distance off, Ash and Eala caught the corner of his
eye- Eala appeared to be crying, and Ash was crouched in front
of her, comforting her. The Woad leader made a mental note to
go and speak to them soon- but Guinevere first.

"We should arrive back at the village today," he told her,
settling on a simple, unemotional statement to open the
conversation. What he really hoped for, though, was some sign
of how much Mona's death was bothering her- or wasn't.
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golden_trillium

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Author: Darya
Date: Thu Oct 09, 2008 1:21 pm

Darya


Karl
 
"Well, it seems like you two sure are worried about
something. And what might that be, eh? And why would the
commander give a damn about what happens to a
Sarmatian?"


Darya arched an eyebrow at Karl when he suddenly appeared next
to her and Jols. You have no idea, she thought but didn’t say
anything yet and merely lifted her chin slightly. She would
certainly not tell this man why the Commander would care… And
obviously Karl didn’t or didn’t want to know that Arthur
always cared…for everyone. One way or the other.

Then Karl reined his quite big horse unnecessarily close to
and Darya could not help but narrow her eyes at the beast, its
reaction and its master. She wasn’t scared by
this…encounter…but didn’t feel exactly comfortable either. She
had known men like Karl… The soldier was like Corvus, just
older and in a lower rank…but the Sarmatian had no doubt that
Karl was capable of the same…things…as her former Commander…
Not the most pleasant thought…

Karl
 
"Maybe he doesn't like you. I know he doesn't like ole
Jols over there. Come on boy. You should watch what you
say. You never know who's listening."


Just when the dark-haired wanted to say something, she felt
two arms embrace her from behind and she was slightly pulled
backwards. Darya blinked bemusedly as this action took her
totally off guard… She squirmed slightly in the arms' grip.
“I’d rather say the horse has adapted to its master’s mood…”,
the Sarmatian murmured and watched Karl and his mount move on…

Jols
 
"Who said that we were worried about something. Are you ok, Darya? Not hurt anywhere, I hope?  Since when did he manage to start speaking in Horse, hmm? Cause I definetly sure don't. Well, that takes care of that, then. His horse is off my list of those that I take care of permanently.  There's a girl who works here, I think that I'll transfer him and his horse for her to take care of."


Darya cleared her throat and gently freed herself from the
squire’s grip. “I’m alright, thank you Jols…”, she said and
turned slightly to look at the older man again. “It takes more
than a grumpy horse to scare me…”, the Sarmatian added with a
wry smile and then paused for a moment, “…and Karl definitely
doesn’t belong to the folk that – according to the myth –
understands and speaks in Horse…” The dark-haired now even
breathed a quiet laugh as she once more referred to one of the
myths that ranked about her people. “Sounds like a good
plan…”, Darya then finished with a shrug of her shoulders as
she commented on the squire’s idea for Karl’s horse…
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golden_trillium

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Author: lady ione
Date: Thu Oct 09, 2008 2:47 pm
Adian


Well, he had been anything but kind, but for the simple reason
that he had not gotten a good night's sleep, and he was still
trying to find a way to grieve and still get all of the things
done that could not wait...or at least he thought they could
not wait. He could feel his worries disappear as Tatiana, now
fully awake due to his rude interruption of her sleep, her
voice still full of sleep and whatever dreams she may have
had, which, in Adian's present mood, he did not wish to
hear...

Tatiana
 
"Hello to you too. No, I'm fine, thanks. I've got a
later shift at the stables, so I've been busy here,
Adian."


.....Gods! If he was only strong enough to resist the innocent
temptations of this young seductress. Adian sat on the edge of
the bed, his back toward her, as she sat up and lay aside the
blankets that had hidden her tempting form. He turned his head
toward her, and looked into those soft green eyes....the way
her hair fell over her shoulders attempting to hide her pert
breasts....the tunic and skirt did not help much either. For a
moment, all Adian could see before him was Thorn, her face
staring at his, and he shook his head slightly until the face
of Tatiana appeared again. Cautiously, he raised a hand to
brush the thick cascade of curles from her left shoulder and
bent forward to kiss the soft skin there, "Sorry..I woke you
in such a...brusque manner....should have left you sleep
longer..." he muttered, his lips brushing over the flesh as he
spoke. Gods and Goddesses but she felt so good, and so close!
Adian felt his body respond to her closeness though he knew he
had no time for that sort of thing just now. The buildings had
to be repaired, so that the fort looked decent again instead
of a war zone. His long fingers stroked over her arms while
his lips moved to her jawline...her chin...her warm lips, and
there his lips caressed hers in a long lingering kiss. That
was as good an apology as any he figured...

Tatiana
 
"Are you ok? Do you hurt anywhere? Anything I can do to
help?" "I wasn't sure if you had had anything to eat
before you left here, so I made you a little lunch its
waiting for you on the low table, with a skin of fruit
juice."


......."Mmmm...no..." Adian smiled slightly after a small kiss
on her neck. He stood from the bed and waited for her to stand
as well, and indicated the meal on the table. "It is
thoughtful, Tatiana, but I have to get back to work. By god
those woads cause more damage than termites!" He moved away
from her, and looked down at the measuring tool that he had
laid next to the bed while he enjoyed her closeness. Bending
over to pick it up, Adian stood and looked at her, "There are
so many buildings that need repairing that I may not be home
for a while." A smile played on his face as he headed for the
door again, "Have a good day at work, and I'll see you when my
work is finished okay?"

Gods! She was so upstandingly sweet! His eyes took in her
slender form, and waited to see if she had anything else to
say before he left....
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golden_trillium

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Author: Lancelot
Date: Thu Oct 09, 2008 5:11 pm
Lancelot


I cannot give you what you want.

Arthur
 
“I remember it clearly….”


Lancelot's body still vibrated; it was as if he could feel
what it had been like for the mug of wine to explode so
violently against the brick wall of Arthur's rooms. His good
eye ticked to the dark stain that seeped down the brick -
bloody in its appearance. Arthur seemed not to care about the
mess; that was strange. The consummate noticer of everything,
the fact that the Roman was still watching Lancelot evenly -
and with anger and hurt swirling in his green eyes - began to
make Lancelot have...doubts.

Had he done the right thing in answering truthfully? Did
Arthur even believe him?

Arthur
 
“Can I count on you to do what is needed in my absence?
And that was my favorite goblet.”


And then the worry subsided easily - succumbed by the ravenous
appetite of Lancelot's fury and loneliness, and the many weeks
of uncertainty and thought. He strode the few steps to where
Arthur was standing at his clothing chest, toying with a pair
of leathers he was obviously getting ready to put on.
Lancelot's single sword banged painfully against his leg - he
wasn't used to wearing it, and he couldn't seem to figure out
how to walk correctly with it - and he reached out a hand.
Jerking the leathers out of Arthur's distracted fingers, he
pitched them to Arthur's bed and grasped the Roman's chin with
a grip that belied his hurt.

"You are not even listening to me, Arthur Castus. I am tearing
myself raw here in front of you. And you make jokes??? How I
am to talk to you ever again? You know what it's like for...."

The fingers that held Arthur's stubbly jaw shook, and he
dropped his hand, exhausted. He cocked his head and narrowed
his eye, gaze never leaving Arthur's face. Familiar face.
Loved face. He did not move, but he left his hands at his
sides, the random trembling coming and going.

"It has been long and longer since we had anything. You know
all there is to know about me...and by the gods, but I miss
it. And I don't know why and I'm so fucking confused and I
hate this and I hate you. I hate you...and yet I cannot."

He shook his head; his eyes both burned and shit - was that -
no, for Mithras' sake, no tears. Please, please.

"Yes, I will do what you ask. Partly because she is my kin and
I would do no less for any woman or man of my land. And partly
because it is your progeny - yes, Arthur, your child - and I
would die rather than do wrong to you.

"...and yet - I wonder what it will mean for me, in future."

A future of nothingness, of endless battles, nights spent
fucking whores to relieve his physical need, and days of doing
a job that kept him by the side of the one person who'd been
able to see into him. Into his meat, his flesh, his spirit,
his blood.

His heart.

Damn them both.
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golden_trillium

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Author: Starbelle
Date: Thu Oct 09, 2008 5:55 pm
Tatiana


Adian
 
"Sorry..I woke you in such a...brusque manner....should
have left you sleep longer..."


"That's.. ok,.. love. Apology... accepted.." Tatiana replied
amid soft gasps as she felt his soft kisses awaken pleasurable
sensations in the young woman as she closed her eyes and moved
her head away to give him greater access to her bare skin

Feeling her skin break out both in goosebumps and shivers from
the kisses and caresses that he trailed on her bare skin, made
her unconsciously let out a small whimper when his
ministrations stopped, but not before she wrapped her small
arms around his neck and kissed him deeply on his lips in
return slipping her small hands into his hair, before removing
them and releasing him. Tatiana ran the tip of her tongue
along her lips, feeling the tingle from his lips reawaken
there as she did so.

Seeing him stand up from the bed, she did likewise, the
hemline of her skirt raising slightly on her long legs, making
them seem longer once her bare feet were on the carpet next to
her bed. Watching him as he bent to pick up the tool that he
came back into their quarters for.

Adian
 
"There are so many buildings that need repairing that I
may not be home for a while." "Have a good day at work,
and I'll see you when my work is finished okay?"


"Okay, Adian. Becareful up there on those buildings that you
work on and I'll see you later. When you get home from work
tonight, I'll treat you to something special that I think
you'll really enjoy a lot." Tatiana replied her green eyes
lighting up as if it was a secret surprise reserved just for
him.

I hope that he'll like it..He definetly seemed to when we were
in the baths together.
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golden_trillium

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Author: Elessars Girl
Date: Fri Oct 10, 2008 8:41 am

Arthur


I cannot give you what you want.

I will love you and need you until the end.

Arthur had not managed anything more in dressing than pulling
out a pair of trousers when they were unexpectedly snatched
from his fingers….and Lancelot gripped at Arthur’s jaw hard
enough to snap the Roman out of his reverie.

Lancelot
 
"You are not even listening to me, Arthur Castus. I am
tearing myself raw here in front of you. And you make
jokes??? How I am to talk to you ever again? You know
what it's like for...."


“Tearing yourself raw?” Arthur echoed Lancelot’s rather
cryptic description with a questionable tone; troubled green
eyes never leaving the other man’s pained expression. Why in
God’s name was Lancelot so angry? The other man’s trembling -
trembling?? - hand fell away from Arthur’s chin leaving the
Roman completely bewildered by Lancelot’s accusing words and
pained filled eye.

Lancelot
 
"It has been long and longer since we had anything. You
know all there is to know about me...and by the gods,
but I miss it. And I don't know why and I'm so fucking
confused and I hate this and I hate you. I hate
you...and yet I cannot."


I could never hate you.

Nor do I know your heart.

Lancelot’s words had stirred at Arthur’s fortified heart.
Anger began to well up within the Roman in some automatic form
of defense against further pain. The fire in the hearth
crackled and popped as the flames consumed the kindling, but
Arthur did not hear it. The dull morning light had crept in
through the window to gently illuminate this corner of the
room, but Arthur took no note of it. In this room stood two
men; radically different from one another….one wild and free,
the other unwavering and bound to fate. Yet, the two had been
fused together so profoundly by a tumultuous love, a fiery
passion of both physical and emotional force beyond
explanation, even bound by destiny…yet why could neither man
accept what had been given?

Arthur could barely breathe….in this room. Two hearts pounded
loudly in the small space between them; green eyes flared with
confounded anger rivaling the coppery flames in Lancelot’s one
good eye. And then the other man shook his head and seemed to
back down from his angry stance. And as Lancelot’s expression
once again turned back to meet Arthur….the brilliant glow of
the fire in the hearth glinted in the corner of Lancelot’s
eye…in the hint of moisture there.

Do not do this, Lancelot. Not now.

Lancelot
 
"Yes, I will do what you ask. Partly because she is my
kin and I would do no less for any woman or man of my
land. And partly because it is your progeny - yes,
Arthur, your child - and I would die rather than do
wrong to you....and yet - I wonder what it will mean for
me, in future."


“Why do you do this? Why so angry?” Arthur said with accusing
eyes as he finally reached for Lancelot, strong fingers
gripping at the other man’s tunic over where his heart should
be and tugging Lancelot closer.

“I gave all of myself to you - to YOU. Yet you continued to
construct a wall around yourself, impenetrable…,” Arthur
paused to release a sigh a frustration and to release his grip
on Lancelot’s tunic. His hand lingered enough to smooth over
the material before falling to his side. Arthur’s head
throbbed and his side ached….and his heart wrestled with an
emotion that he’d thought lost.

“I blame myself for not giving you what you need….” Arthur’s
voice waivered as his anger turned over to pain again. “….and
I cannot do this now. Neither of us is thinking clearly,” He
added while lifting his hand to gently touch Lancelot’s
swollen cheek. Arthur’s thumb lightly brushed over the angry
skin beneath Lancelot’s injured eye and he heaved a sigh of
defeat. Arthur had not the strength to argue with Lancelot
this early in the morning and when faced with so much
uncertainty.

“And I think this child that Darya carries will be my own
undoing. I do not deserve a child of my own and what father
would I be? I have my duty and I will most assuredly meet my
end on a battlefield…much as my father did before me,” Arthur
said with a sadness in his voice that he rarely shared with
anyone. He had not meant to steer the focus away from
Lancelot’s anger….but there was no avoiding it….fate had dealt
them both a powerful blow. Nothing would ever be the same
again. And Arthur had only himself to blame.

He removed his hand from Lancelot’s battered face and stepped
to the bed to retrieve the riding leathers Lancelot had thrown
there. Arthur then removed his linen trousers and tugged on
the black leathers with his back to Lancelot. He began to tie
the laces and while his fingers worked at the task, Arthur
attempted to bury the pain in his chest…..I cannot do this
now.
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golden_trillium

Admin
Author: LadyCastus
Date: Fri Oct 10, 2008 2:22 pm
Neeria


Neeria sniffed and wiped her nose on the back on the dirty,
large tunic she wore. The woad coughed, a deep rattle in her
lungs, no doubt the result of being in the cold, dank cell too
long. She looked up at Neeve again who was standing patiently
waiting Neeria to get herself together.

Finally, the healer approached Neeria and stooped down.

Neeve
 
“Uhm…okay, let me see that wound of yours, okay? What
kind of weapon caused it…Neeria?”


"Yes, I am called Neeria," the woad said softly as she raised
her tunic. Just that small movement sent what felt like
daggers stabbing into the woad. She cringed as the pain and
awful smell of the wound hit her nostrils. Neeria felt what
must have been pus slide slowly down her side.

"I was sliced by a Roman's sword," Neeria said, "right before
I killed him," she added, grimly.

The cold air hit Neeria's wound which caused it to burn.
Neeria's eyes widened, as Neeve dug around in her things
looking for something, absorbing details about the healer in
front of her. Neeria studied the other woman's face. She was
quite beautiful with short, dark hair. She was much taller
than Neeria with a thin frame and long slender fingers. Her
hair and face were fresh and clean and she wore clean, heavy
clothes and sturdy boots on her feet.

"What is your name?" Neeria asked, "and where are you from?"









Malcus Barbattus and Titrus

Malcus and Titrus entered the stables and walked up to Jols
and Darya, catching the tail end of their conversation.

Darya
 
“I’m alright, thank you Jols…It takes more than a grumpy
horse to scare me and Karl definitely doesn’t belong to
the folk that – according to the myth – understands and
speaks in Horse…”


Malcus walked over to the dark-haired woman.

"Trouble with one of my men, my lady?" he asked.

"G'morning, Jols, lady," Titrus said, bowing slightly in
Darya's direction.

"Jols, kind sir, I'll be needing Adolphus now. I'm sure you've
taken great care of him and he's ready to go."

Titrus headed down one of the long rows toward Adolphus.
Malcus stayed near Jols and Darya.

"You're looking radiant this morning," Malcus said to Darya
and flashed a beautiful smile. "The sun pales in comparison to
your beauty," he added, "I will be sure to watch over you in
Arthur's absense."

"Jols," he said, turning his attention to the squire, "I will
take Falco out for a ride once the mission party leaves, then
I will be spending the next few days here in the
stables....making sure things are running smoothly. Where is
the stable master? Do you know? I need to discuss a few things
with him."
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golden_trillium

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Author: lady ione
Date: Fri Oct 10, 2008 3:13 pm
Brendyn


Brendyn watched the men approach, and address Darya and Jols
while he and Tyranus awaited inspection in silence. He was
glad that Malcus was inquiring at least as Karl had been quite
rude to her...

Darya
 
“I’m alright, thank you Jols…It takes more than a grumpy
horse to scare me and Karl definitely doesn’t belong to
the folk that – according to the myth – understands and
speaks in Horse…”


Malcus
 
"Trouble with one of my men, my lady?"


Titrus
 
"G'morning, Jols, lady," "Jols, kind sir, I'll be
needing Adolphus now. I'm sure you've taken great care
of him and he's ready to go."


Brendyn's sharp eyes followed Titrus down to where his horse
awaited him he had, so far, marveled at the splendor of
Castus's horse and his own (naturally). His gaze then turned
back to Malcus, Darya and Jols, his hand resting on Tyranus's
soft muzzle to quiet him. He understood that the black horse
was anxious for adventure, and just needed to get out and
stretch his legs a bit....

Malcus
 
"You're looking radiant this morning," "The sun pales in
comparison to your beauty," "I will be sure to watch
over you in Arthur's absense." "Jols," "I will take
Falco out for a ride once the mission party leaves, then
I will be spending the next few days here in the
stables....making sure things are running smoothly.
Where is the stable master? Do you know? I need to
discuss a few things with him."


Brendyn pretended to ignore the smile that he flashed the
lovely Sarmatian. Perhaps he could get some tips from the
Captain on the art of flattery. At the mention of the stable
master, Brendyn had now noticed that none had been present. He
turned slightly to Tyranus who was now studying Malcus with
big brown eyes. The horse was a good judge of character, and
reached out gently nudging the Captain's jacket for sweets,
and to get to know the man a bit better. Animals could sense
gentleness as well as mean heartedness, and the black was sure
that Malcus was the gentle sort. Brendyn stroked the animal's
neck as the soft muzzle traveled to Darya then to Jols.

Tyranus liked to have familiar scents to identify those he
would be around, and that his master would work with. Any
unfamiliar scents would be unwelcomed. The Arab mix nickered
in a friendly manner as he nudged Malcus a bit more. Brendyn
had trained him to make friends but still be a good battle
horse, as it was useless to have a horse that bit and kicked
all the time except in battle...
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