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Post by maryjane on Aug 4, 2010 11:50:49 GMT -5
The darkening of the sky was the only thing that could pull the young woman away from her dear friends cottage. Mary-Jane Leofric gave one last farewel to her closest friend Vesper. I sorceress who's true calling was medicine. Mare walked to her silver grey mare and patted the muzzle as she easily swung up into the saddle. She decided that there was enough light left that she could make a quick visit to her hidden glade before she would have to return to her small one room home. It may appear as a tiny shack yet to her it was all her own. Something she had managed to get all on her own. A small gust of wind knocked the dark green hood of her cloak off of her head to reveil the light auburn locks that cascaded down her back in shimmering curls as the color seemed to reflect the sunlight.
Little did the young woman know that she was being watched as well as followed. The only thing that was on her mind was that she going to get to relax completly. Usually Mare could relax wth Vesper yet something was holding her back this day. Though what that thing was she hadn't a clue. Something had her on edge yet she couldn't think of what it could be. So the oblivious young woman continued on her way the sound of her horses hooves makes a wonderful clopping sound as they left the dirt road and found themselves walking of the grass toward the edge of the woods which would lead to her secret place. Mary-Jane was lost in her thoughts that at first she didn't she didn't hear the other hooves of horses. But when they finally caught her attention and she turned she was shocked to see a band of poorly dressed men leaving the road after her.
The bright blue eyes of the woman widened in fear as she knew that they where not simply going in the same direction as her but after her. Mary-Jane dug her heels into the flanks of her mare and soon she was at a gallop riding away from them and towards the edge of the woods. She kept a good distance from them at first and she should have known to turn and go back toward the road where someone might come along but her fear ridden mind did nothing to note those facts. Mary-Jane leaned low against the mare's neck so not to hinder the speed of her horse. She knew that her mare was not built for speed and couldn't keep up this pace for a long while but she hoped that they didn't know these woods as she did.
As she entered the forest she could already hear the breathing of her mare begin to quicken. Mare felt pity for the poor creature but when she could still hear the hooves behind her her fear instantly returned and the pity for the animal which she loved dearly was replaced only with that. Mare hadn't realized that they where heading straight for a rotting log until her mare sailed over it and Mary-Jane lost her seat and fell from the saddle into a pile of leaves. She rolled for a moment and her horse continued to run unbeknowest that her rider had fallen. In only a matter of moments four men where sailing over the log and one past her by before the second caught sight of her. In the next instant she was on her feet and began to run. She didn't get very far before her escape was cut off by a man still astride his horse. Mare's eyes searched helplessly for another way of escape before an arm snaked its way about her slim waist and she was pulled forcefully against the chest of a second man.
"Help!" Mary-Jane managed to get out before a hand was pressed over her mouth. Her fear increased even more as she began to shake as the man who had cut off her escape dismounted from his horse. Mare could hear the other two men doing the exact same and she knew that she was in terrible trouble. She should have left earlier from Vespers. She blamed her own stupidity for what was now happening to her.
Tears leaked from her eyes as she began to struggle against the arm that held her in doing so the man began to fondle her breast making her struggle even more. A laugh escaped the man who held her so tightly she was sure her ribs would break. His touch was not gentle and she was sure she would have marks to show for what he was now doing to her. The laugh from the man who was holding her was mirrored by the other three though she had only seen the man who had cut her off she knew that the other two where watching her hungrily. As if they where starving dogs about to have their first meal in days. In the next moment a voice sounded. "Hurry up Patrick, some of us want to play too." The mans voice came out in a sneer as if Mary-Jane was a simple piece of meat that was about to be passed around. "Aww look Duncan we mad the poor little girl cry." The same voice said again.
The man who was in front of her was apparently who the man had addressed for he grinned and took yet another step forward. Mary-Jane didn't think she just reacted, everything happened so fast. One moment the man behind her was laughing as fondeling her as if it would bring her pleasure and stop her struggles against him. But her struggles only seemed to enflame him more which she could feel being pressed into her lower back as he pulled her even closer. In the next moment Mary-Jane made her move though she would regret it after word. She managed to bite the man and he instantly pulled his hand away. She took that moment to scream as loud as she could desperatly hoping that someone would hear her. But instead of the hand she expected to return to her mouth a slap to her face sent her to the ground.
"The little witch bit me Duncan!" The man who had been holding her was no very much angry which she knew was going to cause her even more pain. After Mare had hit the ground her cload had come undone and the man grabbed her by her arm twisting it painfully and she got her first look at the man. His nose seemed far too big for his face and his breath smelled rancid. He looked as if he had not bathed in weeks. Unlike the man who had cut her off. He was not handsome but plain of face but this man repelled her not only by looks but by the look in his eyes that said he would take whatever he wanted no matter who he hurt.
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Post by Arthur Pendragon on Aug 4, 2010 12:30:00 GMT -5
Arthur had decided that tonight, he would take some time for himself. With everything that had happened today . . . with nearly killing King Olaf, Arthur wanted to have a few moments of solitude. He wanted to break from the plans that his father was making to have a festival to celebrate the newly established peace treaty. All Arthur could think about was how he had hurt the woman he loved, and that guilt was enough to force him away from the castle on a very late hunting venture. Night was indeed the best time to break away, even though he did inform his father of where he was going. Uther protested, but Arthur -- being the rebellious son that he was -- did not comply and went anyway.
It had been only a few hours until he had found his way deep into the woods, his crossbow armed and ready to fire at an unsuspecting animal. His horse was tied to a tree, miles back. Arthur was not dressed in his royal attire, or anything that would indicate he was a knight or prince. He had casual clothing, consisting of a shirt and a vest on top, with pants and boots. It was comfortable to move in, perfect for hunting in. He had his sword at his side, and a small dagger tucked into his boot. That was all the weapons that Arthur needed to properly defend himself . . . just in case.
His attention was focused on a fox, scurrying about, pausing to look around. Arthur was hidden behind the trunk of a tree, planning to take full advantage of this animal while it rested for a moment. He raised his crossbow, holding his breath, watching his feet as a single snap of a twig or branch would send this fox far away. He did everything perfectly . . . and on the count of three, he would fire the arrow. One. Two.
And that was when he heard it.
An agonizing scream echoed in the woods, and Arthur was more alarmed by it than the fox. Suddenly, the failed hunt was the last concern of Arthur's. It was a woman's scream, that much was not difficult to determine, and this immediately made him lower his cross bow and run to find the source. He did not have time to go all the way back to his horse, and so ran on foot as fast as he could. Following the sound, he came closer to hear murmurs, deep laughter and . . . that was when Arthur saw it. A few men, tormenting a young woman. Arthur could tell by their expressions, could tell by how they were keeping a hold of her . . . what they were going to do to her. Arthur felt himself fume with anger. The perversion of some men was positively despicable and he hated to think that there were people out there who had the nerve, who were that revolting, to take part in actions such as these.
He stayed behind a tree, just making sure that there was no one else surrounding these men. He did not want to risk an ambush of more men he anticipated in fighting. There were four. The Prince was fighting to control his anger and what they were trying to do, knowing that anger was a weakness in battle for it made a man irrational and lack judgment. He could not wait too much longer though. He pointed his crossbow at the man who had a firm grasp on her, who's face was inches from her, and fired, straight in the chest, aiming right for the heart so that it would be an instant death. The other three men looked towards the direction of where this mysterious arrow came from. They both looked surprised . . . and angry. Each one drew a sword, and Arthur did the same. In one swift move, he pulled his weapon out from its sheath and charged down to the small band of men.
Arthur was confident enough in his abilities to be able to fight three men at once, keeping in mind that there was a defenseless woman among them. His motions were quick, as he was both on the offensive and defensive. Against three men, there were three different directions in which swords were coming at you. The clanging of swords echoed in what used to be the abandoned, silent woods. The horses that had once been there now ran desperately away from the danger they suddenly found the men in. Horses were apparently smarter than the men themselves.
Arthur landed two mortal blows on each men, one proving to be more of a challenge than the other. For one, all it took was one strike in the chest, and the other, Arthur forced the sword right through the men, seeing the tip of it on the other side as he held him long enough to pull the blade out before allowing him to fall lifelessly to the ground. And now the last man. He looked at Arthur with an expression that he was very familiar with. It was that look, of a man who knew he was defeated, but who did not want to admit it. The sole survivor positioned himself behind the woman, practically using her as a shield. Arthur was not that dumb though. He knew better than to attack while there was a hostage.
So Arthur stared at the man, his expression speaking, daring the man to make one move. Arthur's own expression was still extremely angry as he was not quick to forget what they had almost done to this poor girl. It was what made him able to kill them so easily, without an ounce of hesitation. The man knew he was trapped, and so against all odds, he pushed the girl to the side, raised his sword and let out a threatening yell as he foolishly charged towards the Prince. His death came after a few blocks, but it was definitely not the most difficult combatant. After what was only a few moments, Arthur's sword found his way through the man's side. His death was not instant, but it was also not dragged out so that he would suffer. Arthur pulled the sword out, and looked at the man. He was dead.
After catching his breath for a few seconds, he looked towards the young girl. Arthur's expression immediately softened, not wanting her to think he was any sort of threat to her. He did not like the fact that she had to witness so much violence, but killing each of these men did not phase him in the least. He had -- unfortunately -- killed for a lot less of a reason, and would never regret ending the life of these four degenerates. He continued to look at the woman, his eyes doing a quick scan to see if she was injured in any way. Her trauma may be more emotional than physical. "It's alright," he assured her in a soft voice. He did not know if she was actually from Camelot, so therefore, there was a chance she would not recognize him as the Prince. "I'm not going to hurt you," he continued, trying to be as calming as he could. "Are you hurt at all?" That was the primary concern right now, since the threats towards her were dead.
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Post by maryjane on Aug 4, 2010 13:50:34 GMT -5
The rancid breath of the man was bearing down on her face. She wrinkled her nose in disgust though she shook in fear. Her fear was noted easily by the man who held her painfully by her arm trying to force her to her feet while her weight was pulling her down causing more pain to shoot threw her shoulder blade. It felt like he was trying to rip her arm from her socket but just before she tried to pull her arm fully out of his grasp she heard behind her the distinctive sound of a quarrl being released from a crossbow. Mare had heard the sound many times before and she immediatly ducked to the ground when she looked up the terror in her eyes only grew as she watched the quarrl embed itself in the man who had been holding her. Then he sank to the ground next to her dead. Hypervenalation would have been welcomed at this time. Fainting would have been even more welcome but Mary-Jane was not a weak woman. A fearful one yes, weak no.
She could stand the sight of the dead for she herself had almost been one of them two years before. It was hard to believe that two years had passed since that fateful day that had almost ended her life. the sounds of swords coming from their sheaths brought her back to this world instead of the world of her thoughts. Her eyes where drawn to the man who was apparently rescueing her. She wasn't sure if it was true but she prayed that it was. She couldn't take much more of this without fully shuting down and fainting like a weak and pathetic girl. The sounds of metal clashing against metal was a sound she was not used to and quite frankly she didn't like it. In her mind it held so much violence. The sounds of dieing men all around her stilled the woman. Inside she was trembling, but on the outside she was numb and completly blank and devoid of all emotion.
When she was pushed to the side she hadn't realized that one of them had gotten behind her. Her right hand was cut by a sharp rock as she tried to stop her fall yet she ended up in a heap on the ground anyways. When she heard the fall of a body hitting the ground she didn't want to look at who remained. She didn't want to think that perhaps it was all over and she was now going to have those aweful things done to her. More tears leaked from her eyes as she stared unseeingly away from the person who had won the battle. The instant the voice broke threw her thoughts she flinched and moved even farther away. Then the voice registered to her for she had heard it once before on the streets of Camelot. Mary-Jane turned quickly and looked at the man who stood. Sure enough it was her prince.
Yet he was not dressed as a prince and even in the dieing light she could make out the features that she knew so well. Though she had only glimpsed him once whilst he was walking it was undeniable that this was the same man. He was dressed as a common hunter would. Which must have been what he was doing out here in the woods alone at night. A careful look around said that no one was around except in the next moment Mary-Jane's eyes widened and before she could think what she was doing she was on her feet knocking both her and the Prince to the ground a second later a quarrl much like the princes, grazed her arm and then embedded itself in the tree that had been behind Mare. She quickly rolled off of him as she looked at him in terror as if she might have just done something wrong. She heard the shuffling of feet and she could tell that the person who had attempted to shoot the prince was retreating.
"F-Forgive me your highness. I-I saw the glint of the moonlight on the quarrl that the man was aiming at you." Mare said. Her voice was little more than a whisper and she inched her way away from him just in case he might be angry for her knocking him to the ground. She had been surprised that she had even been able to do it. It was quite obvious that the prince was much larger than Mare. She stood at least a foot shorter than him and she weighed alot less. She must have caught him off guard.
The last thing Mary-Jane wanted was to anger her future king and the terror she had felt before only grew as she looked at him. She really hoped that she hadn't angered him. As Mare backed away she ended up tripping over her skirt and falling backwards onto her butt her hand that had been cut once more trying to catch her fall which made her wince in pain. She craddled her hand to her breast but didn't look at it, to afraid to look away from the price to even look at how bad it was cut. She could feel the blood on her hand and knew it was dripping onto her light blue dress yet still she didn't look away. Her fear so apparent in her eyes.
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Post by Arthur Pendragon on Aug 4, 2010 15:03:56 GMT -5
While he was awaiting her answer, he was suddenly pushed to the ground, with her on top of him. He had obviously not expected it, but less than a second later he understood her reason for doing it. An arrow penetrated the tree right next to them, and he looked at it in shock, before looking back at the girl. She had saved him. This strengthened the obligation he felt towards her. He wanted to go after the man, but he did not want to leave her on her own, so he stayed. Arthur started to notice quite a few things about her now. Besides the fact that she saved his life, and the poor girl looked absolutely terrified, she was injured. And she knew who he was. But formalities -- for once -- were not of Arthur's concern. He did not even comment on her apology. It was completely unnecessary, as he was the one who should be thanking her.
Arthur got up on his feet, only to see her stumble back and fall. He took a couple of steps towards her, moving slowly so that he did not do anything quick to cause her any more discomfort than she was clearly feeling right now. He offered his hand to help her up. She had been hurt for it was now that he noticed the blood trickling down her hand. He looked at her concerned, knowing that he could not help her unless she let him. "You have nothing to apologize for," he assured her. He wanted her to know at least that much . . . that he wasn't the least bit angry she had knocked him down. "And you having nothing to fear anymore. I only want to help you, if you will let me." He could only imagine how traumatized she must feel right now, but he wanted to make sure she was alright. He owed her a great deal right now, and she owed him nothing for as a Prince, it was already his obligation to help those in Camelot.
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Post by maryjane on Aug 6, 2010 12:44:50 GMT -5
Mare couldn't help but feel fear as she looked at her prince. He was her prince but he was also a man and a deep fear of all things male had set into her very soul even though she trusted him as her prince to do what was best for the people she couldn't help but fear him. Though she wished that it could be different. She wished that she wasn't so weak and that she was like some other women and could stand up for herself as well as be able to face a man without flinching away and cowering in fear. When he continued to move toward her she though she really was in for it now. She was absolutly terrified to anger him but when he spoke her eyes where instantly drawn to his. They mirrored the truth to his words though her's still reflected the fear she felt but soon her trembling stopped and she felt a bit more comfortable around him though still afraid nonetheless.
"My-My Lord I am but one of your people.. You need not concern yourself to my wellfare." But even as she spoke she offered him her hand to see what he could do. Her was slowly ebbing away and all that showed after it left was a caution and kindness that Mary-Jane always carried with her. She was a kind and considerate woman and she would do nothing that upset her lord. She was a very loyal person and her loyalty lie with this Prince and his father. A gentle smile made its way to her beautiful face. A smile that was not normally seen by the male population. Only on rare occassions was her smile even seen it was so rare. Yet still beautiful. Pulling at her lips showing off the dimples in her cheeks and the straight white teeth. "T-Thank you for saving me your highness."
Mary-Jane knew very well that if the prince had not come along she would most likely would have been lieing dieing in the forest having been used abused then tossed aside. The thought of what could of happened was mirrored by what had happened those two years ago. And she instantly pulled back her hand and flinched away in fear thinking that it was her sisters husband instead of her prince. She didn't see a prince but she was returned to the night where her whole life had been changed. Tears filled her fear and pain filled eyes as she looked at the prince before she whispered. "Please don't hurt me again.." But soon after she said it her vision cleared and it was the prince who stood before her once more.
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Post by Arthur Pendragon on Aug 6, 2010 13:48:13 GMT -5
Arthur did not comment on her protest to not be concerned about her. He was going to focus his energy on convincing her to let him help her, not explain that it was not a waste of his time, even though it wasn't. He saw her hesitancy, and so kept in mind not to be too forward. Even if she recognized him as Prince and even if she knew somewhere inside of her that he was not going to hurt her . . . he still would not disrespect her need for a bit of distance. Seeing the tears form him his eyes only made him feel worse, and more angry at the men who had come. That anger would probably never subside, but the Prince knew how to keep a firm hold on his emotions, and conceal them from the public, which is exactly what he was doing at the moment.
"I'm not going to hurt you," he repeated, with the same soft, genuine voice. He proceeded to take his vest off, and slowly took one step towards her. Though he reminded himself she needed distance, he also wanted to show her that his actions towards her were safe; not dangerous, not harmful in any way. He continued to take slow steps, each one small, but each one closer to her, before he was in hands reach. He put the vest around her, the large size of it able to shroud her petite body, covering her arms at least. He then took a couple of steps back, hoping that the article of clothing would provide some warmth and comfort, and make her feel less exposed if not physically, then emotionally.
He was not quick to forget her cut. He tried to think of what he could put on it so that it would avoid infection. She had saved his life, he needed to ensure her health was in tact. He reached into his pocket and pulled out a small piece of cloth. If he needed more, he would take it from his own shirt, but the size of the one he had seemed rather efficient. He held it in his hand and looked at her. "May I?" he asked, motioning towards her cut. Normally, the Prince would not feel the need to ask for permission, for anything really, but under these circumstances, he did not want her to feel as if he was violating her . . . not like those men had.
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Post by maryjane on Aug 18, 2010 4:00:24 GMT -5
Deep within her she knew that her prince would never heart her yet she still couldn't help but be afraid. Not after so many thing sthat had gone horribly wrong with men nearby. It was a wonder that Mare hadn't been afraid before her attack. Mary-Jane took a deep breath and closed her eyes before she held out her hand fully to Prince Arthur. She pulled his vest closer to her with her other hand before she muttered thank you. It was said so softly that she wasn't certain that he could hear her. Mare didn't want him to see the fear in her eyes. The terrified look of a trapt animal. Thats what Mary-Jane felt like right now. A trapt animal about to be slaughtered. Mare was also afraid that the person who had tried to kill the prince would come back which made her eyes open quickly and and she looked around. Her eyes where not the best and with the declining light there wasn't much to see except tree's, more tree's and bushes.
It was then that Mary-Jane realized that her horse had not come back yet and that was when she heard the clopping steps of her mare coming back. The silver gray hair caught the rays of the pale sky lantern and made it seem as if she where truly made of silver. A soft smile krept to Mare's lips as she looked at her and then her mare stopped besider her and nudged her shoulder to make sure she was all right. "Thats my girl..." Mary-Jane muttered as she leaned her head again her mare's head. "Good girl Ophelia.." Mary-Jane then then turned her attention back to the prince where she couldn't help herself when she said. "You should smile your highness. I hear you have a loving smile." A deep blush settled into Mare's cheeks and she quickly averted her eyes and turned her head. What was she thinking saying something like that to the prince? She apparently hadn't been thinking.
Mary-Jane wasn't usually so out-spoken. Usually she didn't talk at all. But she thought that it would be rude if she just scurried away and hid from the prince whom had just saved her life. She would have to find some way to repay him. "P-Please your Highness if there is anything I can do to repay you, please let me know." Mary-Jane said as she looked back at him and looked him directly in the eyes. Probably not the most respectful thing that you could do to a prince but she felt that she needed to make eye contact with him to let him know how important it was to her that she repay him. Mary-Jane's voice was light and melodic carrying with it a slight tremor from her fear but nonetheless a voice that made you want to stop and listen. "Oh dear where are my mannors. I know who you are yet you don't know who I am. I am Mary-Jane Leofric your highness." Mare said as she bowed her head.
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Post by Arthur Pendragon on Aug 18, 2010 20:20:27 GMT -5
Arthur was relieved when she offered her hand. He gently took it in his own, looking at it carefully. It seemed that the wound wasn't terribly deep so maybe she would not have to bother seeing a physician. He tore a small piece of the cloth from the end and very gently began to dab away the blood, at least the blood that had not dried. Once it seemed to be fairly clean, he took the piece of cloth and wrapped it around her hand, trying to be as gentle and careful as he could. He then tied a knot once the entire thing was wrapped around. He made the knot was not too tight, but tight enough to hold at least until their journey back from Camelot.
He then watched as he horse came, and once again, was relieved that she would have proper transportation. Though he would have gladly given his horse to her to ride back on. But now, there was no need for that. And her next comment . . . or compliment rather, surprised the Prince. She seemed to be easing up, even if it was ever so slightly. It was reassuring to see that she was no longer utterly consumed with fear. In a further attempt to comfort her, he gave her a bit of a smile. Not overly jovial as there was not need for it right now, especially considering she had been assaulted and that was certainly no cause for a smile. "I believe the same can be said about you," he said compliments her own smile as a small one formed upon seeing her horse.
Arthur slightly shook his head. "You need not repay me for anything." It was his duty to protect the citizens of Camelot and to see what had happened . . . what had almost happened, continued to sicken him. "What is your destination Mary-Jane? May I escort you to where you need to go?" At least it would be the safest way for her to go to where she had been heading, before the men attacked her. Besides, he owed her his life too and that obligation was not something he would be so ready to release himself of.
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Post by maryjane on Aug 19, 2010 20:06:06 GMT -5
Mary-Jane desperatly wanted to be able to trust this man before her but still that irking in the back of her mind remained. She knew that she would always fear men, it was deeply ingrained into her mind. She just hoped that maybe one day she would be able to become comfortable around at least one man. Mary-Jane really wanted to get married and have children one day. Though she wasn't sure if that would ever happen. Exspecially with her occupation and her lowly status, as well as her deflowered body. What husband would want a woman who wasn't a virgin? She was tainted, unpure. She hadn't willingly had sex yet that mattered little to most men. Mare lowered her eyes and hung her head in defeat. With Arthur in front of her it reminded her so much of what she could never have.
Things like that never mattered if you where a man. You could not be a virgin and that was decided to be a good thing. But if you where a girl you where the lowest of the low if you had had sex outside of marriage. Which was why Mare had tried to forget all that. She had tried to make the most of what she could and even now struggled to get enough money to get by. What would it be like with a child? What would have happened had Mary-Jane become pregnant that night? Mare feared for what would have become of that child. A Barmaid didn't make that much money and Mare was afraid that had she become pregnant she would have sunk even lower in the food chain. Mare shook her head as she felt Arthur take her hand ever so gently making her meet his eyes. Mare was instantly calmed of ehr thoughts by how gentle his touch was to her.
And when he complimented her smile it only grew to something much more full. Mary-Jane fel much better with him holding her hand. She didn't want to let go. She didn't understand why but she felt safe with him there. With him bandaging her hand. A slight twinkle seemed to appear in Mare's eyes as she cast her bright sapphire blues optics to Arthur's. She held his gaze with the love and adoration as well as respect that she was feeling. She didn't feel the least bit rude by meeting his eyes straight on.
A gentle auburn brown cocked itself as he said that she didn't need to repay him. Mary-Jane didn't pull her hand away instead held his ever so gently as if he might disappear should she let go. She felt like she was caught in a dream. A very sweet dream, or it could be considered a beautiful nightmare. Either way she didn't want to wake up if this was only a dream. She enjoyed the Prince's company. And when he offered to escort her she couldn't even find the will to answer. Instead she came up with the idea to introduce Arthur to Vesper. Or perhaps they already knew each other and she didn't know it. Either way Mare wasn't ready to let go. "I was on my way to a friends house. She lives just a bit further to the east. I-It would be wonderful if you would at least let me repay you with a meal. Her name is Vesper Grant. She is a medicine woman." Mary-Jane said with her heart-stopping smile.
The smile the was rarely ever seen. Only a few people could have claimed to see the breathtaking sight that was one of Mary-Jane's true smiles. Mare reached out and grabbed the reins of her horse with her other hand. The hand that wasn't still holding on to Arthur's. A light blushes dotted Mary-Jane's cheeks and could clearly be seen with the moonight now fully streaming threw the tree's. The last rays of sunlight having disappeared. Mare's smile seemed to gleam in the moonlight, her skin looking etheral as if she where an angel come down from heaven. She looked as if she belonged in these woods. She strated forward still clinging to his hand as well as the reins of her horse though she kept looking up at Arthur and giving him small smiles. She felt more and more at ease around him though it wasn't perfect. There was still the fear in the back of her mind. Though she tried to ignore it.
"What where you doing out here by yourself Your Highness? If I may ask." Mare asked as she finally gave in to her curiosity about what the Prince had been doing before he had saved her. The one thing that could get Mare into trouble. Her curiousity. "Oh and please call me Mare. Mary-Jane is just too long for my liking. And my friends call me Mare." Mary-Jane said softly before she returned her attention to where she was walking. Before she cast her glance at Arthur once more and at the wrong time as her foot caught a root and she started to fall forward.
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Post by Arthur Pendragon on Aug 19, 2010 20:29:41 GMT -5
With her smiles and unwillingness to let go of his hand, Arthur was getting the impression that she was getting more and more comfortable around him. And that was what he had wanted . . . after all, a beautiful woman like herself alone in the woods, what had just happened was one example, but -- though it was a horrid thought -- it could happen again. Arthur could not just let her wander on her own, even if her friends house was nearby. He did not feel the need to get his horse, he would find him when he returned through the woods. Instead, he would ensure her safety first. She was also offering a meal, as a reward and while he still felt she owed him nothing . . . perhaps he would take her up on it. It was not common at all for a Prince to dine with someone of a lower class, but under the circumstances, he was finding it a bit difficult to refuse. She had saved his life after all; that was not a debt he was ready to forget.
"I will certainly accompany you there. If she is a medicine woman, then she can take a look at your hand since I am no physician." Just to be on the safe side. He was not going to argue when she spoke about repaying him . . . he just wished he had gotten there sooner to spare the poor woman the emotional trauma she was still recovering from. He was not sure how to answer her next question. He could easily make something up, and just hope that his answer would not call for more details. He wasn't sure he was ready to repeat the story of him and Lady Vivian. And what a horrible story indeed that had been. "I was just out for a hunt." That much was the truth. The reason for being alone, well, it did not seem important at the moment.
While he thought on his response, and processed her name -- or nickname rather -- he was suddenly pulled out of his thoughts when she began to fall. Quickly turning to her, another instinctive act to protect and secure her, he rapidly tightened his grasp on her hand and held it with a firm grip, putting his other hand behind her so that it would stop the fall. He gave a bit of a smile, his eyes quickly scanning her to make sure she was alright. "It might be safest if you ride on your horse for the rest of the journey." With that, he helped her stand up, making sure she was balanced before letting her go, and taking just one step away, near the horse. He was waiting for her, to help her mount on to the animal so that she would not tire from the rest of the travel.
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Post by maryjane on Aug 19, 2010 21:32:52 GMT -5
A soft giggle passed Mary-Janes lips as the prince caught her. She was definatly lucky to have the Prince around. She didn't know how she would have managed on her own had he not come along. Sadly she had some semblance of an idea but she didn't dwell on it for long as she swung herself up into the saddle with grace that said she had spent alot of time in the saddle and knew very well how to handle herself. Mare didn't comment on his brisk reply as to why he had been out this late, she didn't push him though she was certain that wasn't exactly why he had been out. Sure she believed that was part of it but she believed something had caused him to want to go out so late. Mary-jane had to force herself to stop smiling down at him and to continue on. Mare was quite certain Vesper would know that she was coming.
The young woman always seemed to know when she was on her way. Smoke spiralled up threw the chimney of the little hut and when Vesper didn't immidiatly appear Mare became worried. "Somethings not right..." Mary-Jane whispered as she slipped off her horse dropping the reins knowing full well that she would be there when she came back. mare turned to the prince her confusion and fear returning. Vesper always knew when Mary-Jane was coming. It was in her blood. Vesper was part fairy as well as a sorceress. "Wait here your highness." Mare said as she started for the door not waiting to argue about it she started for the door which was slightly ajar. Mare's fear grew even more as she heard rustling in the cottage before she swallowed and pushed the door open fully.
Mare thought that the princes life was worth a whole lot more than her own which was why she was being stubborn and doing the whole hero thing. Mary-Jane released her breath when she saw Vesper running about her cottage. Which meant she had a patient and hadn't had the time to greet Mary-Jane. Mare looked around trying to find the patient and Mary-Jane gasped at what she found. A young girl with her face bruised and swollen layed on Vesper's cot. The girl couldn't have been more than eight years old and she was shaking, her breathing shallow and seemed to barely be there. Mare felt anger at what she was seeing before she turned to Vesper. "What happened?" Mare asked as she looked at the doorway where Arthur now stood.
Vesper cast a glance at Arthur nodded before she looked back at Mary-Jane. "I found her the same way I found you. Except the girls father was the one who beat her instead of your sisters husband. He had just finished with himself and then left her when I came along. She may not make it threw the night. I've seen her before. Her name is Skye. To be completly honest Mare, I don't believe she will live." Vesper said sadly completly ignoring the fact that Arthur was standing there. Vesper wasn't exactly rude but seeing as she didn't know him personally though she could tell he was trustforthy if Mare had brought him along. A single tear slipped from Mary-Jane's eye as she smoothed the young girls hair away from her face. It was easy to tell even threw the bruises that the young girl was beautiful.
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Post by Arthur Pendragon on Aug 19, 2010 23:54:12 GMT -5
Arthur instantly became alert when she said that something wasn't right. He pulled out his sword, an action that was becoming rather frequent in the past hour or so. But still, he was prepared for whatever further potential danger dared to threaten them. When she told him to wait here, he ignored her order, or request. Whatever it was, Arthur did not listen. He did not even listen to his own father -- the King -- when he demanded that Arthur do something, even if it was an order. The Prince did not comply to certain demands, especially where the safety of someone else was concerned. He followed her, not quite running to the door for he was ensuring that the surroundings were clear. He had to make sure that no one was hiding with another cross bow, ready to fire an arrow at them. He quickly circled the house, keeping a firm grasp on his sword, in a ready, defensive position.
When he was somewhat satisfied with the immediate surroundings, still keeping very alert sight and hearing, he went to the small house, standing in the threshold of the door. He walked a bit more inside to see what had caused Mare to be so concerned, and that was when Arthur saw it. A tragic scene indeed. A child, brutally beaten. What creature had done this? Arthur's silent question was answered: her father. He felt anger build up inside of him, but kept it concealed, just as he always did, until it became too much and he was forced to unleash it. But right now, the environment was fairly stable . . . he was not going to lash out where there was a small injured child and two women.
He put his sword back in its sheath, still prepared to pull it out again at any given moment. His training enabled him to have quick reflexes so if need be, he would be ready. But for now, he walked closer to the child to see the extent of her injuries. To think that a human being did this . . . it was appalling. As disgusting as the men who had attacked Mary-Jane in the woods. Arthur said nothing when the woman, Vesper, explained that she had found Mary Jane in a similar condition. His heart went out to the woman, to anyone who had to suffer such injures . . . especially but a family member. Someone who should be trusted. Who should care for you.
Arthur remained in a pensive silence, trying to process everything, trying to understand the situation and control his sympathies. He was used to masking his compassion, but his expression was still soft and his tone of voice that spoke his next words, though firm, was not overly harsh. "Do you know where her father resides?" That was all he questioned at this moment. If Vesper knew the little girl, then maybe he would know where her father was . . . and then maybe Arthur could pay him a bit of a visit. He knew that things like this happened in the kingdom all the time, but to actually witness it, and be so close to being able to do something about it . . . Arthur could not ignore the opportunity.
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Post by maryjane on Aug 23, 2010 11:31:07 GMT -5
Skye let out a moan of pain and she seemed to be coming from whatever drugged sleep Vesper had put her in. At first Vesper ignored the princes question as Mary-Jane knew she would. Vesper was a confusing young woman with her own motives to everything. She did things her way reguardless of what the rules where. Mare thought that maybe the prince may lash out for Vesper's rudeness but it seemed that Vesper had developed a strong dislike for him in the last thirty seconds or so. Mary-Jane quirked a gentle brow before Vesper rushed to the cup that was on the table beside the bed where Skye lay. Vesper hushed her and got her to drink more of her brew. Which most likely would ease her pain though the taste would be horrid. Mary-Jane knew full well how Vesper's tonics worked. they where very amazing in their healing ability even if they tasted rotten.
When Skye quieted again Mary-Jane released her breath that she hadn't realized she had been holding. "There is my special slave on the work table Mare. You know which one it is. You've used it enough." Vesper commented without looking up from the child she attended. Mare quickly did as she was bid before Vesper turned to speak to the prince. "Do not think that you can do anything more for this child. Should her father find that she is still alive what do you think he will do? Men are so ignorant that they do not see that their actions may cause more harm than good. Even you Arthur should know what any angry man is capable of." Vesper voice wasn't angry more of a patranizing and crone like way. Even though it was obvious that Vesper wasn't that much older than Arthur if she was at all.
Mary-Jane gasped slightly at the way Vesper was speaking to the prince. Yet it didn't really surprise her. Vesper was adament about her dislike for men as well as royalty. And Arthur was both a man and royal. Which meant that he was at the top of her hate list. Mare wanted to defend the prince but instead stepped in front of Vesper just in case Vesper did succed in angering him. She would be in the way. Even though Arthur was her prince, Vesper was her closest friend and she wouldn't let anything happen to her. A soft sigh came from Vesper before she rolled her eyes and turned and walked out the back door going to her herb garden most likely.
Mary-Jane didn't know what to do next so she did what she was good at. After the salve had been applied to her hand and it was re-wraped she poured a glace of Vesper's special soothing cider and offered it to the prince. "Please forgive her. She isn't very fond of men though her's doesn't go to fear as mine does." Mary-Jane said softly. Her hand shook slightly for being so close to the prince. She wasn't as afraid as she had been in the begining and it wasn't pure terror but fear none the less though she hid it behind her beautiful smile which she granted to the prince before she turned and looked down at the young girl. "I hope she lives..."
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Post by Arthur Pendragon on Aug 24, 2010 14:52:38 GMT -5
Arthur was not at all happy with the way Vesper spoke to him. The thing that bothered him the most, was being addressed by his first name. No title; no form of respect. There were very few who called him just Arthur and those people were privilege to such a thing. It was usually close people of nobility and royalty, in addiction to two others: Guinevère and occasionally Merlin. They did not abuse this privilege however, and because he cared for both of them, he did not grow offended. But now, with this woman vocalizing such disregard for who he was . . . he was not happy. "He will not be able to do anything when I am there." Arthur was not bragging, but he knew that he had more weapon training that whoever this man was. He had been trained to fight since he was a very young boy, and so did not worry that this particular opponent may be more advanced in combat. He would be able to restrain the man if his anger got the better of him, especially upon discovering that his daughter was not dead.
Had there not been a mortally injured little girl in the room, he would have spoken with a bit more frustration at Vesper's far too casual tone when talking to him. But he controlled the irritation, and spoke firmly instead. "Don't presume to tell me what I should know." He felt that she should know better than to call him merely by his first name. It was not something he had to remind people of doing, which he felt was a far more frequent occurrence than it should be really. He just remained quiet after that, leaning against the wall, his arms folded across his chest, as if he was supervising what Vesper was doing to help the child. He didn't even leave when Mary Jane disappeared through the back door. He just watched quietly, and only spoke when Mare returned with a cup of cider.
While he appreciated her apology, it should not have to come from her. Why did people tend to generalize others and lump them all into the same category? This was something he did not understand. Yes, some had bad experiences. In cases like Mary-Jane's, he could understand how one would be traumatized by such events. But to express hostility towards something -- especially someone of a higher class -- was extremely reckless. Arthur had his pride, but it was not great enough to imprison this woman for her disrespect. And if he done so, no one would question the reasons as to why. He took a sip of the cider, finding the warm liquid quenching his deep thirst. "I'm sorry to hear that tonight was not the first time you experienced such hostility from someone." He was sincere in his words. No one should have to go through that. It was bad enough once, but twice? That was even worse.
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Post by maryjane on Sept 12, 2010 22:17:28 GMT -5
Mary-jane looked at the prince and smiled sadly as she was once more reminded of that night two years ago. "It was two years ago on the night that my sister married the man I thought myself to be in love with. I was walking home when he found me. He was drunk to the core, and while he should have been in bed with my sister he took me like a common whore, right there on the streets of Camelot. Then thinking me dead, brought me out here where Vesper found me and nursed me back to health. Ever since then I have feared men. I mean no dis-respect my lord by my fear, I try to hide it." Mary-Jane found herself saying. She felt comforted by Arthur's presence as she well should be seeing as he is her Prince.
Mary-Jane felt safe like she hadn't in a long while. She felt at ease until she heard something coming from the back door as if there was a struggle going on. A frown creased her brow as she made her way toward the back and looked out to see Vesper almost argueing with an axe as her tiny body attempted to chop wood. A giggle almost escaped Mary-Jane before she rolled her eyes and walked back inside before she rolled up the sleeves of her dress and removed her cloak and let it hand on the hook before she picked up the kettle and almost dropped it for she hadn't figured it to be full or hot instead she set in back down before removing her hand and turning it up to see the delicate skin already starting to pinken and blister. She gave a gentle smile to the Prince before she hid her hand in the folds of her gown.
In that moment she decided it best to probably stay away from anything that could injure her seeing how clumsy she was feeling at this moment. She didn't know what it was that had her on edge yet now. She was feeling so very different than she had in years. When the child groaned and tried to sit up obviously the draught that Vesper had given her hadn't set in fully yet and vesper forgot the stew she had been preparing and went to the childs side. One eye fully swollen shut but one perfect brown eye looked back at her before she muttered threw her dry swollen and cracked lips. "Mommy..." She said. Mary-Jane froze before she looked up to see if Arthur had heard what this child had called her. Mary-Jane knew instantly that she was caught and that this child would be hers should she live. It wasn't physically possible for Mare to be Skye's true mother because Mare was barely eighteen herself.
"Im here for you sweetheart.." Mare said before the child looked up at Arthur and smiled as best she could before saying something else. "Daddy.." Was the last thing she said before she fell back into her deep sleep.
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Post by Arthur Pendragon on Oct 4, 2010 20:08:14 GMT -5
Arthur knew that rape, beatings, and such violent acts took place, but hearing first hand accounts of them was very unsettling. It disgusted him to think that people like that were in his kingdom, a place where people should be safe. But Arthur also knew he could not stop every attack, every offense . . . no matter how much he wished he could. He did not know what to say in response to her story. There was really nothing he could say for it was clearly a traumatizing experience, one that words would not make better or less painful to recall. He had been looking at the ground, slowly shifting his gaze to her as he began to speak. "You do not need to concern yourself with disrespecting me in this way. I am not offended. I only wish that something as disturbing as that had not happened to you." Or anyone. No one deserved such brutalities and cruelty and quite frankly, the thought alone made Arthur feel sick.
Arthur had indeed notice her small accident though she made no big spectacle of it. "Are you alright?" He asked as he slowly took a step towards her. After she had just explained her fear, or uneasiness around men, he did not want to cause alarm or discomfort. She hid her hand and he did not want to pry in something she was unwilling to tell him or show. When he heard the faint voice of a child, he followed her to see where the young girl was, and felt once again, disturbed to see such a small innocent girl, so brutally attacked. Even children remained unprotected. Arthur felt responsible for it; after all, as part of the royal family, he was obligated to care for all of his citizens and this was not taking care of them.
When the child slowly drifted off into what Arthur hoped was a peaceful slumber, he leaned against the wall, folding his arms across his chest and he thought pensively for a moment before speaking. "We should take her to the court physician in the city," Arthur began to say. He did not want to sound as if Vesper's remedies were insufficient but at the same time, Gaius was the most skilled physician in all the land and if there was anyone who could help the girl, it would be him. He had undying faith in the man and completely trusted him . . . just as the king did. "You should also get yourself checked out, and that hand as well." She had saved his life; he would ensure she was looked after.
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