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| December 2008 | |
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| Tweet Topic Started: May 28 2010, 01:27 PM (2,123 Views) | |
| golden_trillium | Jun 1 2010, 10:04 PM Post #76 |
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Author: LadyCastus Date: Wed Dec 17, 2008 12:45 pm Neeria Neeria stood back and listened to Neeve and Vanora talk about her fate as though she weren't even in the room. She was, afterall, a prisoner here and where she went, with whom and what she did were decisions she no longer had control of herself. While the two women talked, the small woad's mind wandered again back to her sister kin, Mona, Rosita, and Guinevere. She wondered what they were doing. Had Arthur and his group arrived at the village yet? Neeria bit her bottom lip at the thought and her body tensed. She'd given Arthur the location of her people. You betrayed Merlin that awful inner voice reminded her. Neeria shook her head in denial. No! Stop saying that! I didn't betray them! Arthur goes to make peace. Doesn't he? He won't hurt them. Will he? The guilt, the doubt was starting to get to her. She would never be accepted back into Merlin's fold, of that she was sure, even if she could explain herself. The leader would probably order her to be killed. Icicles slid down Neeria's back at the thought of Merlin's anger and pain. My Shanti...how I miss you so...I'm so sorry, even if you will never understand.
Neeria blinked, coming out of her reverie and realized the women were talking to her. She cleared her throat and fought back the tears that had formed in the corner of her eyes. "Um...yes Vanora...thank you again for the clothes. I shall enjoy them." Neeria smiled but it did not reach her heart nor her eyes. Feelings of disgust - disgust for herself - filled her. She should not be mingling with these people, they were the enemy. Aren't they?She should be back with Mona and Guinevere and Rosita - people she loved and who at one time loved her too. But you don't want to fight anymore. You made your choice, Neeria. Now you must live with it. You are a traitor even if you did not intend to be. Neeria held on tightly to her new clothes and stepped back out into the cold with Neeve, leaving the smell of good food behind her. Her stomach fought in protest. The dreariness and cold of the day hammered down on Neeria's already moaning, beaten spirit. A fine, light snow was falling and the woad tipped her head back and breathed in deeply, trying to fill her lungs and clear her mind. The healer walked quickly to their next destination and Neeria struggled to hold onto to her items and keep up with her at the same time. With her free hand, she also pulled and tugged on the clothes that still swallowed her small frame. The weight of the too-big clothes seemed even heavier than they were before, Neeria having surely lost a few pounds since being imprisoned. Mercifully, Neeve seemed to realize Neeria's predicament and slowed her pace.
Neeria looked into Neeve's blue eyes. "I will have to remove the bandages to get into the bath. Will you rewrap me? Your medicine seems to have worked well on me. Thank you." Before Neeve could respond, Neeria added quickly. "Where is your husband? And your children, healer?" Titrus Titrus watched the dark eyed woman walk past him checking to make sure they and the Sarmatians held the line. Fortunately, their conformidity to not cause any more "trouble" seemed to have satisifed the scary-looking woad bitch. But right when the lieutenant thought he had seen it all, another wild-looking woman stepped out of the clearing. Her hair was fiery red and Titrus immediately knew the woad woman was insane. Her eyes were wide and distant and there was no other word to describe her appearance except crazed. Titrus thought surely the woman must have been possessed by a demon and immediately he crossed himself and kissed his thumb, asking for God's protection. These people were devils - all of them! Despite it all however, Titrus would later classify his reaction of seeing the woman as merely heightened alarm. But his feelings of mild discomfort quickly escalated to pure unadulterated fear when all of a sudden the blue demon leader, the dark magician, the wicked wizard himself, Merlin, stepped out into the clearing onto the road. Titrus' eyes widened, his mouth instantly went dry and he licked at his cracked lips. The lieutenant willed his balls to drop back down out of his stomach as the sight of Merlin shocked his senses. Adolphus reared his big head and shook his mane from side to side. Titrus reached down and rubbed and patted the horse's long neck, whispering reassurances into the beast's ears, completely sympathizing with his mount's sudden fear. Titrus looked over at Quintus and swallowed hard then turned his attention back to Arthur, hoping the Roman commander knew what he'd gotten himself and the rest of them into. Thank God, Titrus thought, that he'd made friends with Bors. Malcus Barbattus Once Malcus had said his good bye to the lovely Catherine, he made his way across the commons and headed toward the stable to satisfy his punishment handed down by Artorius. The diversion of getting himself laid had satisfied him as indicated by the pep in his long step. The captain loved how he felt post coitus. He felt joyful and completely stress free. Catherine had been a formidable lover - Barbattus smiled to himself - and he'd paid her well for it. Yes, he would call on her again in the future. Malcus pulled his cloak up around his neck against the cold and light snow. As he neared the tavern, he slowed his pace. He knew he should go directly to the stables but perhaps he should have a spiced mead to warm himself first. As the possibility took root in his mind, Malcus' feet led him toward the door of the tavern. He would get to his responsibilities as soon as he had a quick beverage. The captain opened the door of the tavern and blinked against the darkness. His eyes quickly adjusted and Barbattus made his way over to the bar, waiting for a server to approach. |
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| golden_trillium | Jun 1 2010, 10:04 PM Post #77 |
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Author: lady ione Date: Wed Dec 17, 2008 2:25 pm Vanora The red head took her leave of Neeve and Neeria, and headed back to the tavern to see how business was going. Stepping inside, she closed the door behind her. Vanora looked over the room to see who was there and who needed to be waited on. Not far off, she saw Adian striking up a conversation with Darya and Tatiana... and she saw Captain Malcus. She approached him as she took off her shawl, and asked, "What can I get you, Malcus?" She was feeling pretty good after doing something nice for Neeria who looked like she had not had much. it was always good to see some of Arthur's men come in and relax as they were always working so hard... |
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| golden_trillium | Jun 1 2010, 10:07 PM Post #78 |
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Author: Elessars Girl Date: Wed Dec 17, 2008 2:59 pm Arthur This was the heart of Britain. The deep forest with its treetops shrouded in misty grey fog and the ground blanketed in wintry white snow. This was just as much a part of Arthur as the pristine columns of the massive stone structures in Rome. Even though Arthur often attempted to ignore it, he could not suppress his connection to the lands of Britain – to Merlin’s people – Arthur’s mother’s people. And as if to reinforce that bond, Guinevere’s fingers gave a firm squeeze at Arthur’s hand while they awaited Merlin’s arrival. They were enemies, yes – yet theirs was a complex relationship that also involved mutual respect and understanding….. …..but not all of Merlin’s people respected Arthur’s unique connection to the soils of Britain.
Arthur turned piercing emerald eyes on the Woad who appeared to challenge his presence here. What did this man know of Artorius Castus? Why risk insulting the Roman enemy who held Merlin’s daughter so precariously in his grasp? Arthur’s gaze narrowed at the painted man who was in need of a lesson in diplomacy, but before the Roman could unleash the sharp retort that sat on the tip of his tongue – sounds reached his ears that clearly indicated the arrival of another ‘important’ individual. Merlin.
Arthur greeted the leader of the Woads with industrious green eyes; fully intent on showing only reverence and cooperation. The last time the Commander had met with the Woad leader, it had been a negotiation for the lives of two of Arthur’s knights….but this time the cost was potentially much greater. One misstep in communication could cost Arthur all of the men that had accompanied him today. He silently prayed to God for their safety and for the ability to resolve any conflicts peacefully. “That I seek renewed peace between us,” Arthur answered; easily matching Merlin’s cool yet amicable tone. He punctuated the simple statement with a respectful nod of his head and a diplomatic smile upon his dry lips. And even though it would have been an advantage to remain seated atop his white war horse, Arthur released his hold on Guinevere’s slender fingers and gripped at the hardened leather rim of the saddle in preparation to dismount. His other hand draped the leather reigns over Casti’s withers; purposely not offering them to the lady. She was no rider despite her noble posture atop his mount, and Arthur knew it. “It was my pleasure to provide you with a little warmth, Guinevere,” Arthur whispered into her ear on the side opposite from where Merlin stood on the ground so that the intimate nature of his words were heard by only Guinevere. However, he would leave it to her to decide the sincerity of his words. She was ‘the enemy’ after all, was she not? But she was also a woman and it was his nature to want to protect her. And Arthur would never view women as warriors despite the many he had been forced to kill; all those that had attempted to kill him. Arthur then swung himself down and out of the saddle; his long crimson cloak slipping from around the woman’s slender body in the movement as it trailed after him. The snow crunched beneath his hobnailed boots as the Commander’s feet landed firmly on the frozen ground. Leaving Guinevere in Casti’s saddle was not a concern for Arthur – his stallion was loyal to his master and would remain where he stood unless Arthur commanded otherwise. “I offer my gratitude at your willingness to meet with me,” Arthur spoke evenly as he took the few steps that closed the distance between he and the Woad leader. Excalibur hung snugly at his side, but Arthur knew that he had no need for his blade here. If Merlin had wanted this small party of Romans and knights dead – they would have been attacked long before the Woad leader had appeared. The stitched up wound in the Commander’s side ached, but he ignored the thing. An icy breeze nipped at his ruddy weathered cheeks and a few stray flakes of snow stuck at the dark and tussled curls of the Roman’s hair. Arthur stood before Merlin with his hands placed neutrally and comfortably on his hips and his resolve for peace shimmering brightly in the depths of his green, green eyes. Derfel Derfel had to fight the urge to stare at the stunning woman as she once again addressed Lancelot. Gods, he’d never seen anything so exotic! But it would be rude to stare and so the knight forced his focus on her stallion’s magnificent lines while the lady dismounted at Lancelot’s urging. But when the lady mis-pronounced Lancelot’s name, Derfel could not suppress a small snort of amusement. ‘Lancelotty’ indeed. The young knight now wore a grin from ear to ear even while Lancelot continued in his silly attempts to charm this woman. Derfel seriously doubted the dark knight’s honeyed words would work on this woman…this lady. She appeared to be way above his station and by far too proud to allow a lowly soldier to service her in the way that Lancelot was so obviously implying.
Derfel immediately straightened up and wiped the smug smile from his expression the second Lancelot snapped his name. He was, after all, in charge and deserved Derfel’s begrudging respect. He listened intently while Lancelot continued to speak with Lady Aracelli. No doubt Arthur would gladly give up his rooms for the likes of her. But what was she doing here anyways? Derfel crossed his arms behind his back and remained standing perfectly still and erect while both he and Lancelot waited on the lady’s response. Of course Linnesse could help the woman settle, if that is what Lancelot would order. And perhaps in doing so, that would keep Lancelot from seeking out Linnesse in the infirmary later….sounded good to Derfel at least. |
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| golden_trillium | Jun 1 2010, 10:10 PM Post #79 |
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Author: TwistOfShadows Date: Thu Dec 18, 2008 9:04 am Isabella Araceli The Lady Isabella Araceli did not care for idle chatter, especially with commoners. Her pretty dark eyes lifted to Lancelot’s face, and she appeared uninterested, bored. The Lady was familiar with well-dressed gentlemen, who gifted her with flowers and tokens...and yet this barbarian? Isabella was not entirely comfortable...but she did not show it. She was a noblewoman, and a representative of the Elite. It would not do to betray her status, and so she conversed with the two men. The dark Sarmatian seemed to have a very fickle manner and charm, and his golden companion was silent and...shy? Isabella cared not. She had a meeting with Arthur Castus, and should not be dallying with these slaves. The woman stood before Lancelot ap Ban, and he towered above her. Her jewelled headdress barely met his pointed chin, and she lifted her lashes to look up at him. There was something abrupt about her presence, adeptly and elegantly exotic, and she pouted her pink lips impatiently. She was still cold, completely freezing infact. Her high cheekbones showed the slight hint of windburn...and her golden skin would fade in this climate. It was a hideous place, and Isabella Araceli stuck out like a Summer’s flower in dark Winter. Her pretty slippers looked bright against the snowy ground...
The Knight reaffirmed the pronunciation of his name, and Isabella lifted her nose at him. Did it truly matter? Her accent was not fitted to the blunt and dry taste of the British language, and she did not appreciate his criticism. She was entirely sure he would appear ridiculous if he tried to participate in her skills, sewing perhaps? She parted her lips to rebuke him. But then decided against it. She was not here to argue with the man, and so it was pointless. She opened her pretty mouth and spoke again, more firmly...but with just as much faltering. “Lancel...ottitte...” A slight frown crossed her features, and she shook her head. Oh, but she did not care! It made little difference to her, this man was unimportant! “I do not think it matters.” She stated, watching as he stepped closer.
Isabella was aware of their closeness, and she glanced down at the small space between them. What on earth...? The fact that he continued to hold her fingers was ridiculous, and entirely suggestive. To please him? Oh truly? The noble Lady was young, but her father kept soldiers in his territory. They roamed about and spoke of such ungodly things, and Isabella looked at Lancelot. Entirely unimpressed. She was not here to please anybody, and the mere suggestion deeply offended her. What was he expecting? That she was more noble than a lowly whore? A courtesan perhaps? A fiery blaze alit in the woman’s eyes and her pink lips drew into a thin line. He squeezed her fingers strongly, and then released them. It was...suggestive. Again! What would Arthur think? What would Rome think? The man could be executed for flirting so outrageously, and Isabella pulled her hand back protectively to her side. She murmured a foreign word beneath her breath, and glanced darkly at Cadarn? Was it?
He winked! He winked at her, and Isabella’s eyebrows lifted disbelievingly. Did he have any idea of a Sarmatian’s position within the Empire? He was a slave, one step above a hunting dog...and the fact that he ruled in Arthur’s place? Oh truly, it was a travesty, and Isabella must write to her father immediately. She would be housed within the officer’s wives quarters, and the Lady was not impressed. She was familiar with grand palaces, with various rooms for her leisure. This place was horrific and completely boring, and she had brought fine dresses to dine in. Isabella looked at Lancelot, seeking a hint of a joke. Was he toying with her? Was it all terribly bad humour? The woman...sighed. This entire situation was ridiculous, and she was in no mood for flirtation or Briton. She desired home. “Indeed, Lancelllottite, I find this entire place intriguing. The blunt stone walls and square windows are most mysterious and enigmatic. My own home pales in comparison.” Isabella’s spoke dryly and sarcastically, and took one more disapproving glance at the fortress. There were no beautiful birds, and she could not see a silk curtain in sight. It was ugly, gross, and unsuitable for nobility. Why had Rome claimed this land? It was nothing special nor remarkable. She spoke again, following in Lancelot’s stead. “I would ask for a tour, but I fear I’ve suffered enough beauty for one day. This place is an abhorration to Rome. I wish to be gone as soon as possible...” Oh, but she was bitter and sarcastic! She glanced at Lancelot from beneath her thickly dark eyelashes, and pouted her lips in disappointment. “I have been riding for many weeks, and to what? A working fortress? I have never heard such a ridiculous notion. How long will Arthur be gone?” Isabella’s skirts flitted about her ankles as she walked, and she tutted her tongue loudly. Surely her father had sent her to the Christian Hell? |
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| golden_trillium | Jun 1 2010, 10:11 PM Post #80 |
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Author: golden_trillium Date: Thu Dec 18, 2008 2:22 pm Merlin
"I would not refuse to meet with my kin." Merlin's voice was incongruously soft and gentle, a paternal smile settling on his face for a fleeting moment as Arthur crunched acros the shallow snow towards him. Arthur, completely unlike the Optio yesterday, was earnest and yet relaxed, fairly dripping sincere goodwill, almost as if he and Merlin were not enemies, but really just kin as Merlin's half-ironic words had said- relatives, who perhaps lived far apart and saw each other seldom, but who nonetheless wished nothing but good for each other. And perhaps in another universe, they might have been, and Guinevere's sitting intimately nestled with Arthur on his horse might have had a different significance entirely. Merlin's eyes lingered for just a moment on his proud daughter, then looked away. It was not so- brilliant green British eyes notwithstanding, blood ties notwithstanding, Arthur had chosen the way of the enemy- had chosen to be an enemy. Merlin's posture hardened as Arthur came to a halt in front of him, his eyes narrowed, and he hooked a thumb into his belt, his fingers thoughtfully stroking the leather just behind his dagger hilt. He did not touch the weapon, of course, and it was not a threat- but it was the threat of a threat, a tiny thing, for one with the eyes to see it. "But if it is peace you want, Artorius," Merlin continued, speaking louder now, projecting his words to the rest of the group around them. "Then you must tear down your mighty stone walls, abandon your prison fortress, and take your soldiers and your slaves and your despoilers of the land away from this island forever. You must leave us as free people, and then we will have peace." Merlin held Arthur's eyes sternly for a beat- and then his grimness dissolved into a sudden smile, boyish and charming, with a little, self-deprecating laugh. "Somehow I do not think that is what you intend," he admitted, shrugging almost apologetically, though it was more calculated than sincere. He was not sorry for his words at all, though he knew full well that Arthur would not, and perhaps even could not, do anything of the sort. It was what was necessary for peace- complete and total absence of the Romans from Britain. A lofty goal, but what were goals for but to achieve? "So what do you want from me, Artorius? Say on, and I will tell you whether it can be done." Merlin removed his hand from his belt and crossed his arms before him, once more all seriousness and polite listening as he waited for the terms he must surely refuse. The Gods did not want more truces- no capitulation of any kind. The Woads might have lost the last battle, but they yet lived, and Merlin had been shown the folly of making deals. There would be no more- only stealthy recovery, and when the time came, renewed attack. And the Romans would not know the day or the hour. |
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| golden_trillium | Jun 1 2010, 10:14 PM Post #81 |
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Author: LadyCastus Date: Thu Dec 18, 2008 4:34 pm Malcus Barbattus Once he was settled in the back of the tavern, Malcus stretched his long legs just as Vanora spotted him and came over to take his order. The captain drug a hand through his thick dark hair and realized that he needed a haircut. Then he touched the thick dark stubble on his sturdy chin and a shave too
Malcus smiled wickedly at the saucy red-head and wagged his thick eyebrows. "Fortunately for you, my lady, I'm sated for the moment. Otherwise, I would indeed inform you of what you could get me. Especially since that big boned man of yours is not about." The captain chuckled. He liked Vanora a lot and enjoyed teasing her when he got the chance. Of course, he would never cross the line and actually attempt anything with her, she was not exactly his type, but Malcus knew it made Vanora feel good to know that she was still appreciated by other men. And she was! For a women to have birthed so many, Malcus considered her still attractive. "So my love, in the meantime, I would like a bowl of stew and some bread. Maybe a bit of cheese as well - I have the remainder of the day to work in the stables," the captain added. The captain suppressed a groan. "And also a tankard of your good ale, please." Malcus looked around the area and was amazed at the fact that no matter what time of day, there always seemed to be people moving about, coming and going, eating and drinking. The captain untied his cloak and laid it on the chair next to him, getting more comfortable when he saw Karl come stumbling in. Fucker's drunk again! Malcus scowled and watched him carefully, but said nothing. The last thing he wanted when he felt so good and satisfied was a run-in with that mutt. Karl Karl walked in and shook his blond hair, shaking loose the light snow that clung to it. He smiled at the warmth inside the tavern and stood still for a moment to relish in it. Karl was still feeling quite good and quite randy from the wine and ale he'd shared with Mirtha. He had no intentions of loosing the feeling anytime soon. The tall blond strolled as straight as he could up to the bar and asked the maid for a drink. It only took a couple of moments for the woman to fulfill his request. The girl took the coin from Karl and scurried back to the other end of the bar as quickly as she could to avoid conversation with him. Karl slammed back the drink and waved his hand for another, turning in his chair to look at the people behind him. As he scanned the crowd, he spotted ... what was her name?...one of those sisters.....a yes! Linnette - Drake's charge - sitting at one of the tables. It looked like she and the girl next to her were....Karl craned his neck to get a better view...reading something. Another girl brought his drink the second time, the first one was nowhere to be seen. Karl gave the girl another coin and grabbed his drink as he got up to go over to where Linnette sat. When he stood, unfortunately, the room tilted and Karl stepped backward into the chair, almost falling over it. Lucky for him, he didn't spill a drop of his drink. Cursing at the chair and kicking at it, Karl made his way over to the table where the girls sat. He towered over them and smiled, rocking a little bit on his feet. He touched Linnette's hair and spoke in a rather slurred mannered. "Hel-lo lay-dies. Mind if I sit here a moment withew?" Before they could respond, Karl plopped down in the chair closest to Linnette. Nolan and Rosita The warmth Rosita felt spread down to her womb when Smith rode past her. She saw the wink and the subtle smirk he'd given her - a private communication between only the two of them. She cursed herself for her body's betrayal. Smith was a loner. There was no way he would mate with her and she knew it. Rosita looked away from Smith, pushing away thoughts of him.
Nolan took his place next to Merlin and smirked at Arthur as the Roman commander approached. Nolan stood just to the side and rear of Merlin while Rosita moved over behind Nolan where she could keep an eye on the optio.
Nolan smirked again at Arthur after hearing Merlin's words and lifted his chin proudly against the cold wind whistling around them. Yes, this was their land and the only way they would be-could be-at peace was if the stench of Rome no longer wafted across their land. Rome must be ousted and then, only then, would the native Britons be free from oppression. Nolan looked Arthur up and down and snarled. How could one who had Rome running through his veins truly want peace?
Nolan shifted his weight and stared at Arthur, wondering how he would respond. What did Arthur want? |
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| golden_trillium | Jun 1 2010, 10:15 PM Post #82 |
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Author: Starbelle Date: Thu Dec 18, 2008 6:06 pm Tatiana
"Hello yourself, Adian. Yes, its quite a nice surprise, but then again seeing you is always wonderful." Tati replied a soft blush and a happy grin appearing in her cheeks and her face at his greeting heating her fair skin and turning it a soft red in response as she returned his kiss. "I didn't expect to see you this early, love. Is everything alright?" She asked placing a tiny hand on his arm, a worried tone entering her voice as she'd remembered his injury from earlier. "Adian, do..do you think that we could go and do some hunting together sometime?" Tatiana shyly asked, looking up at him, a lock of curly, wavy auburn hair falling into her face, curtaining her eyes as she made her request of her beloved, ferverently hoping that he wouldn't say no to her. |
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| golden_trillium | Jun 1 2010, 10:17 PM Post #83 |
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Author: golden_trillium Date: Thu Dec 18, 2008 6:46 pm Linnette Linnette had been engrossed in reading the book, her head bent over it and her voice lilting up and down, puncuated by occasional laughter, as she wound her way through the amusing story with Mari across from her listening raptly. Gloriana, the heroine, had made the decision to dress herself as a man in order to "study" there ways, but was now experiencing some trouble getting one of the family's servants to provide her with male clothing- to rather humorous effect. Linnette was in the middle of one of the old servant's lines, and had even deepened her voice for a bit of effect, making Mari giggle, when a shadow fell across the page and the remains of their food. A tall, male presence- Gedeon! Linnette's mind, so sensitive lately, immediately jumped to the irrational conclusion, before she had even looked up, and she put down the book with a gasp of surprise and delight, keeping one hand in it to mark the page, and started to twist around with the beginnings of a welcoming grin on her face- but it died abrubtly to disappointment as the interloper turned out to be a rough-looking, and rather drunk-looking blonde soldier. One she had seen around- and knew for a troublemaker, too. Disappointment- and self-castigation for her foolishness- thudded down into Linnette's stomach, and her shoulders sagged as she distractedly, without looking at it, opened the book again. Not Gedeon- of course not. And she had to get herself to stop thinking that every time she heard an untoward noise- the strain of repeated hope and disappointment was beginning to tell.
"Er..." Linnette's disappointment twisted itself into an affronted frown, as seeing the hand coming towards her, she ducked away before he could get more than a brief touch of her hair. Just who did this bastard think he was? "No, actually we'd rather be by ourselves," she put in with dignity once his hand was no longer on her, drawing herself up stiffly, but still leaning rather away from him, eying him warily as she once again smoothed out the pages of the book. Maybe if they made themselves very busy, he'd go away...or maybe he'd need sharper encouragement. In any case, Linnette definitely wasn't in the mood for his clumsy advances, if that was what they were. |
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| golden_trillium | Jun 1 2010, 10:19 PM Post #84 |
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Author: Darya Date: Fri Dec 19, 2008 2:36 am Darya Darya found herself astonished by just how easy Tatiana seemed to be distracted by even the most casual action around them. The door to the tavern swung open four times…first a man Darya could not recall to have met before entered…closely followed by Malcus, Vanora…and Karl. A very drunk Karl actually. The female Sarmatian frowned at the drunk old soldier…and her frown actually deepened when he approached Linnette and the girl she was sitting with. Shaking her head slightly to herself, the dark-haired then focused on the man who had entered first and he obviously distracted Tatiana the most…as for the third time in only a couple of hours, the stable-hand totally forgot to react to anything Darya had said before… Very well, the Sarmatian thought, then I'll have a word with Mirtha anyway. Let's see what he has to say about this...
The dark-haired did not really react to the man introducing himself and then placing a chaste kiss onto Tatiana’s cheek. So those two knew each other… Pretty well apparently. Interesting. The Sarmatian politely averted her gaze from the two, yet cleared her throat discretely. She should definitely take her leave. Especially seeing that Tatiana’s welcome to the man was way more…explicit…than his had been. But then the man suddenly addressed her and Darya’s dark gaze snapped up to meet his… Again the Sarmatian cleared her throat. “Nice to meet you, Adian...”, adding 'I guess' in thought; after all she had no idea who this person was, “…I’m Darya…and…I’ve been in the tavern way too long already.” The woman gave him a wry grin and already stood from her chair. “I have quite some things to tend to… If you excuse me...” With that, she turned to Tristan’s hawk and let the bird climb onto her left forearm again. She would bring the animal to her room…and then hopefully finally get the chance for a bath. “Have a nice rest of the day then…Tatiana…Adian…”, Darya said with a nod and moved a bit away from the table. She cast another glance at Karl, who was still pestering Linnette…and then at Malcus, wondering if the Captain would move to interfere… In the end, the female Sarmatian decided that Malcus would certainly do something…if necessary… Shrugging her shoulders, Darya then finally exited the tavern…secretly glad to get away from any drunk person in it; especially from a drunk Karl. Once she was outside, the woman took a deep breath of cold fresh air…practically feeling her senses revive… The hawk on her arm scanned their surrounding curiously and stretched its good wing slightly. “Let’s get you somewhere safe…”, she whispered and then walked off into the direction of her quarters… |
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| golden_trillium | Jun 3 2010, 02:33 AM Post #85 |
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Author: LadyCastus Date: Fri Dec 19, 2008 7:53 am Karl Karl took a sip from his tankard and slammed it down on the table. It wasn't lost on him, even in his drunken state, that Linnette had dodged his touch. Snobby bitch.
"Wasssamatter, lady?" Karl stammered. All he knew was that he needed a woman. He didn't really care who, just any woman, and this one would do nicely. "I ain't good enuf foryer?" Karl looked past Linnette at the other young woman sitting beside Linnette, but didn't say anything to her. He wasn't interested in her. At least for the moment. "Don't you know me? Oh! Maybe thass' yer problem. You's forgot me!" The blond ran a rough, calloused hand through his hair again and licked his lips while his eyes rolled slightly in his head like loose marbles. Karl belched loudly and cleared his throat. "'xcuse me," he chuckled, "Pardon me." He sat up straight in his chair and saluted the two women by striking his breastplate loudly. "In case yer fergot, my name is Karl." He reached for his tankard again and took a big sip then he leaned closer to Linnette, supposedly to whisper, blowing his foul, stale breath in her direction. "Now whaddya say we get outta here and go git cozy someplace?" He smiled wickedly as he licked his lips greedily, totally confident that Linnette would leave with him. |
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| golden_trillium | Jun 3 2010, 02:34 AM Post #86 |
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Author: lady ione Date: Fri Dec 19, 2008 11:01 am Vanora Vanora gave the Captain a warm smile while he made himself comfortable at the table. It was good to see him relax. It looked like he had had sort of a rough day already, and Vanora wanted to make his time in the tavern a pleasant one. In some ways, he was like Lancelot: always the flatterer, yet always the gentleman. Bors was not like any of them: not strikingly handsome, nor having manners, but he was gentle and loving when he needed to be. Vanora noted the wag of Malcus's eyebrows and the mischievous smile, and slightly...very slightly blushed.... not that she could help it when being flattered. Malcus was a good looking young man, she had to admit, but he really was not her type, still it was good to see him come into the tavern and enjoy himself...
Vanora cocked her head to one side, and laughed lightly, "I will get you your meal then as well as your drink." She really did not mind the teasing and flattering of the knights and soldiers who came around the tavern. Vanora was loyal to Bors as he was the father of all of those little bast.. children. Someday, she thought they might get married, but Bors...well perhaps someday, she'd be able to convince him to marry. Right now, that someday looked far off as he really did not seem to want to marry. As she moved off to get his order ready, she walked passed the table where Mari and Linnette were talking, and gave then both a smile before disappearing into the kitchen. Grabbing a plate and a bowl, the red head ladled a few good sized scoops into the bowl, then placed a chunk of fresh bread and cheese on the plate with a few slices of fruit. With steady hands, she moved back through the door with the plate and bowl as well as the tankard of ale, and went back to where Malcus sat... then she saw that a soldier named Karl had entered as well. Drunker than a skunk, and somewhat unsteady in his walk. Seeing as Karl had ordered a ale which he didn't need from one of the other wenches who came back a few minutes later with the drink, took the coin from him then went back to the bar so as to avoid him which Vanora didn't blame her. He downed quickly then ordered another. While he was thus, Vanora turned back to Malcus, "If you need anything else, let me know..." She did not want trouble to start in the tavern with others eating and drinking, but there was a hidden message in what she had said to the Captain that she hoped he would understand: That she was glad he was here, and to watch Karl to make sure the customers were safe. She did not mind patrons coming into the tavern to drink and talk, but to be this drunk... well that put Vanora on alert. Keeping her eyes and mind on what she was doing, Vanora set the plate of cheese, bread and fruit in front of Malcus as well as the bowl of stew and the tankard of ale. Drunk people did not phase her much, as long as there were men in the tavern who had their wits about them in case of trouble. And Karl looked like trouble immersed in wine. Standing up to her full height, and she was not a tall woman, Vanora looked down at Malcus, then over at Adian who was also close by talking to Darya and Tatiana. Seeing as Karl had ordered a ale from one of the other wenches who came back a few minutes later with the drink, took the coin from him then went back to the bar so as to avoid him which Vanora didn't blame her. He downed quickly then ordered another. When Karl downed his second, stood nearly tettering into the chair behind him, kicked it out of the way, and unsteadily made his way to where Linnette and Mari were sitting, Vanora paniced inwardly and looked to the man next to her. What if her children were inside somewhere? She did not want Linnette, Mari, Darya or any of the other customers injured, and it seemed that Karl set his mind on Linnette. It was the last straw when she saw him reach out to touch the young woman's hair, then plop into the chair next to her...
Vanora sent a pleading look to Malcus knowing the Captain would not tolerate this behavior either.... She spotted Darya leaving with Tristan's hawk leaving Tatiana and Adian. Well, if there was trouble, at least Adian was there to assisst Malcus.... not that the Captain needed help. |
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| golden_trillium | Jun 3 2010, 02:35 AM Post #87 |
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Author: golden_trillium Date: Fri Dec 19, 2008 11:27 am Linnette
“Er…” Linnette turned her face away, feeling both thoroughly disgusted and rather embarrassed that this all had to be happening in front of Mari…curse drunken men! And for Mari, given her recent experience, this had to be all the more worrying…grimacing at the reek of ale radiating off the soldier’s disreputable person, Linnette turned back to him with a breath, drawing herself up to put him off in stronger terms, as the lout foolishly introduced himself with a drunken, eye-rolling salute. At least from the look of things, it wouldn’t be too long before this one passed out cold.
“Karl…ugh…” Linnette broke off from speaking, unable to suppress a noise of disgust at the smell of his breath wafting into her face. She got herself back on track quickly, though, wanting to get rid of this unbearable company before he scared Mari too much. Turning back to the soldier with a deliberately sweet smile, she placed two fingers in the hollow of his throat as he loomed towards her and pushed him backwards, a move which Gedeon had showed her and which required no strength, and was guaranteed to set a man coughing and sputtering. “Absolutely not. Leave us alone,” she answered, as she once more turned from him and wiped the fingers that had touched his unsavory skin on a napkin with great dignity. To all appearances she seemed to be totally ignoring him- but her muscles were tense with wariness in case he should try anything else, and over Mari's shoulder she shot a warning glance towards Vanora, whom she spotted hovering nearby. She might need some backup on this...and if Vanora's authority didn't to it, one or more of the men in the tavern would probably oblige. |
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| golden_trillium | Jun 3 2010, 02:37 AM Post #88 |
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Author: lady ione Date: Fri Dec 19, 2008 11:47 am Adian While he was talking to Tatiana and the dark haired woman, a very drunk man had entered setting Adian on guard. He liked to drink, but not to that excess, and the man looked like trouble. Adian could see the man even though he was not looking at him directly, while he continued to speak with the two women...
"Aye, everything is just fine, Tatiana. I already told you, I came in to retrieve a tool for one of my carpentry projects... Lots to rebuild and fix out there after those woad devils attacked.... Keeps me out of trouble," He gave her a wide grin and another soft kiss on the cheek before turning his attention to the dark haired beauty next to Tati. She was stunning, and Adian recognized her as the woman he had accidently bumped into in the tavern a few days ago... or was it weeks? Beside her, resting on the back of a chair, Adian saw the hawk. It was a grand creature to be sure, and he noticed that it's wing was bound. Sad to see an injured animal or bird of any sort. His dark heather gray eyes moved back to the woman whom he had introduced himself to...
"It is a pleasure, Darya. I hope you have a nice rest of the day as well," Adian replied as Darya got up from her chair and made ready to leave with the hawk resting on her forearm. I have no doubt we will meet again... He thought while he saw the drunk move from his chair and over to where Adian had seen Linnette and another lovely young woman had sat giggling and having a good time over a book it seemed. The hair on the back of his neck stood up, but he made no move yet, except for the nod he gave Darya when she left the tavern. Adian continued to stand next to Tati, as his eyes moved back over to where the drunk had plopped down next to Linnette and her guest. Inside, he knew that he'd be in a heep of hurt if a fight were to start, but the man had already touched Linnette's hair and had invited himself to sit down...
"Just a second, Tatiana, there is something I have to take care of," Adian had already begun to move over to where the man was harrassing Linnette. Standing behind the man, Adian listened for a moment to what the man was saying...
That took the cake! Adian reached down and took the drunk by the collar of his tunic and practically lifted him out of the seat, then turned him to face Adian's angry gaze, "Excuse me, but as the young woman said she and her friend aren't wanting you to be their guest, so I am going to have to ask you to leave them alone... and I don't like to repeat myself. Leave them alone.... Karl." The carpenter's voice was calm, but had an underlying danger warning. He didn't like ill manners in front of the ladies, nor harrassment... nor drunks who got out of place.... If he had to go to the dungeons in case of a fight then so be it, but he had to make sure she was safe, and her friend as well... |
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| golden_trillium | Jun 3 2010, 02:38 AM Post #89 |
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Author: Darya Date: Fri Dec 19, 2008 1:07 pm Neeve Neeria indeed managed to catch up with Neeve and even reacted to her words. Wisely. Neeve at first glanced sideways at the smaller woman while they walked on…now in a slower pace. But then…
The Briton lifted her chin slightly and Neeria’s first words. When it came to her skills as healer, Neeve was very confident. She had had the best teacher in her druid mother and even though she had not wanted to fill in her mother’s shoes as healer at first, she had given in eventually…and turned out to be quite talented. Nowadays, the raven-haired knew that she was a good healer…and she was proud of it. Especially since she had come to Badon…whose Commander appreciated her skills more than any other Roman before. And even though she was still quite annoyed about his latest task for her, Neeve could never be seriously angry with Arthur… No doubt the Commander knew that…though the healer usually countered with speaking more open and sometimes painfully honest to him than most others at Badon. She had always done so…and saw no reason to change this… However, just when Neeve parted her lips to comment on Neeria’s question about rewrapping her to protect her injury once the Woad had had her bath, the other woman added another question. A very personal question… A question that let the healer tense all over and her she closed her mouth again to press her lips into a thin line. The raven-haired had absolutely no doubt that several people she had and that had gotten to know her somewhat, had wondered about exactly that… But so far, none had ever dared to actually voice those thoughts…to actually ask her openly… In all truth, Neeve had been glad about that. And now? She hated personal questions. And even more so personal questions from a Woad. A Woad! “They don’t exist”, the Briton finally ground out and for an instant, an angry sparkle shone in her crystal-blue eyes as she stared at Neeria. The faces of Markaad, Percival and Lucius, the three men that had had the greatest impact on her personal life so far appeared before her mind’s eye for a moment…and she inwardly fought the fact that she missed all three of them… One was dead…the other two had disappeared… All three had left their marks on her body and soul…but Neeve had never even considered having a family. Not with one of the three…nor in general. It was something that had never had a place in her life…and yet Neeria’s question stirred something inside her. Something the healer could not quite place… “And yes, I will rewrap you…”, she then added in a rather tight voice, “…since the water should clean the injury even more, I don’t think more salve will be necessary for now. If you don’t try to attack anyone again in the next days, the wound should be healed soon…” Neeve averted her gaze from the Woad and glanced at the skies again for a moment…watching Dwyn circling above their heads. “Anything else?”, she asked Neeria, but did not look at the Woad as she did so… |
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| golden_trillium | Jun 3 2010, 02:40 AM Post #90 |
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Author: lady ione Date: Fri Dec 19, 2008 9:50 pm Brendyn Tyranus pawed at the snow covered earth under his hooves and shook his head, then was still again. Around them, the scene was something out of the legends that Brendyn had heard as a young boy: the swirling light fog that hung over the snow covered scene, two men from opposite sides... The men almost like the powerful gods in the stories. Brendyn watched the proceedings with great interest and hope. He had not been at Fort Badon long, but it seemed to him that peace was necessary as both sides always suffered due to the loss of innocent lives. Even though there would never truly be a perfect peace, trying to live peacefully never hurt anyone. Or was he naieve about his thoughts on the subject? He moved his eyes from Bors to Titrus, then Quintus and Jols then back to the men ahead of him...Tristan, Amadeus, and Arthur. He ignored the smugly arrogant proud people surrounding them, and focused on what was said between Arthur and Merlin...
The intensity of the gaze between the two leaders could be felt by Brendyn, and he wondered if the others could sense it as well. Thankfully, things were going well so far. The soldier felt tired, and longed for rest, but Arthur's life and those of his friends was more important. He had gotten off of night watch, and had been off to his quarters when he got the message to accompany Arthur on this peace mission. If peace, or a truce could be accomplished then the loss of sleep was worth it. Brendyn sat tall in his saddle, his hand resting on his left leg while holding the reins with the other feeling slightly tense, but hid it well. His eyebrow did raise when the angry male woad (Nolan) had called Arthur a "half blood". Half blood? Brendyn thought this out, but did not let it distract him from what was going on around him. Half Blood? Arthur? Was Arthur not full Roman? Perhaps the woad meant it as an insult. Strange that he should be so bold as to insult the Roman Commander.... Brendyn felt the urge to move Tyranus forward a bit as Arthur dismounted his horse, but did not move. His jaw still ached from the stinging blow of the female woad though he had not threatened her. Were woads that dumb that they could not see that his horse had been limping a bit? If he wanted to attack them, he would have done so without much thought. The whole situation was just stupid.... how could he attack them while he was holding his horse's hoof in his hand? It almost seemed laughable now, but when the incident had happened, he did believe they would have killed him and the rest. Brendyn left the thought die as he watched Arthur stride nobely toward the woad leader....
Remove the Roman's from Britainia? He certainly doesn't want much Brendyn thought at first, but then it seemed that Merlin was giggling or laughing, then shrugged, becoming more reasonable. There was no way Rome would ever leave Britain... Merlin was right there. The Breton observed the talks with all of the interest of a student learning something new. Perhaps someday, he'd be just like Arthur. In the time he had spent with the Commander (which was not much), Brendyn came to the conclusion that the Roman was patient, calm, brave, and everything Antonius had told him Arthur was. The way the talks were going so far, Brendyn was sure that peace could be achieved.... |
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