No One Will Win A War [Arthur]

[mysery]

A battle won and a celebration that, while it was only a small village and not overly rich, would no doubt rival the most jovial Camelot had ever seen, Morgana was sure to follow. The people of Ealdor had been frightened and subdued when they had first arrived.

Now, their faces were alight with the kind of joy that came from being truly free, and it was infectious. Morgana felt her own smile broadening as she watched some of the women embrace. They had everything to be proud of. They had fought for their home, and they had won.

A few of the woman embraced her and Gwen, uncaring of the social status between them, and Morgana embraced them right back as the last of the raiders, the ones who had been unconcious and suddenly had come to realise they were alone, ran off.

The warrior lady turned and searched the surrounding area, looking to see that Merlin and Arthur were alright as well. She saw them disappear into one of the houses, a body between them, and Morgana recognised it as Will, Merlin's friend.

Her heart lurched, as it often did when the real toll of a battle became apparent. In her mind she knew that a battle such as this one, while neccessary and vital, would cost lives, but her heart was always filled with sadness at the losses. They were someone's friend, their family even. She knew the sting the loss of a loved one gave. She only prayed that the losses here in Ealdor weren't too great.

After all, they weren't an army on the march for land. They were innocent people seeking to free themselves from a tyrannical oppression. Their losses would be mourned more deeply than a simple soldier among many. This was why no-one would ever truly win a war. They simply wouldn't lose like their opponent.

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Setting: Village of Ealdor

Tag: Arthur Pendragon

Timeline: 'The Moment of Truth' - After the battle

[Arthur Pendragon]

Arthur was not in the best of moods. While the victory of the battle was not far fr his mind, a man had just died because of him, and he had just been informed that Merlin kept something rather big from him . . . something regarding the existence of a sorcerer among this small village. Arthur was not sure what he would have done with such information, but he would have much preferred to know before hand, rather than find out on Will's death bed. And then of course there was the guilt that he had sacrificed his life for him. Even as a Prince, Arthur never expected anyone -- even of the lower class -- to die in his stead. He would never so easily accept that and the fact that someone had, Will of all people, meant more to Arthur than anything . . . and he had paid for it with his life. Seeing Merlin cry -- despite Arthur's many teasings of how he was such a girl -- was a very sad sight indeed. It was fairly evident that the two were close, if not best, friends and now he had just lost him.

Arthur turned to leave, giving Merlin and any other villagers, a few moments alone with Will. As he walked outside, those who had been awaiting anxiously for news, saw his expression and it immediately created a small fit of sobs. He looked around, seeing the dead bodies scattered about and some of the men had already started to clear them. His eyes rested on Guinevère for a few moments, as she was talking to another. He had seen her in a different light during this trip, for it had been the first time she was very vocal about what she truly felt . . . and he did appreciated such honesty. She seemed to be unharmed from the battle. She apparently had defended herself well, even though he remembered her initial reluctance to take hold of a weapon. Sometimes, when thrown in the situation, people acted very differently than how they first thought they would.

He kept looking around until his gaze lay on the woman he was looking for: Morgana. He began to walk over to her, looking at her carefully to make sure she was not harmed, or even scratched. His father would kill him if he ever let any harm come to her. And Arthur would never forgive himself. But she too seemed to look ok . . . on the surface. He would have to find out that there was not a more serous injury he was merely oblivious to. "Are you alright?" He asked, in a deep, concerned voice. Victory had been Ealdor's, but it had not come without a price.

[[ I need to make a Morgana and Arthur layout for this thread!! ]]

[mysery]

Morgana approached Arthur as he came towards her. It didnt take a genius to determine that the young man he had helped carry into the house had died, even if Arthur's stony expression hadn't been enough of an indicator. She didnt miss the way he checked her over either. Always the protector, was Arthur. It was a heavy burden to carry, even if she didnt want him to carry it for her. She could take care of herself, even if he insisted. She didnt want to give him more to worry about, when it was clear his mind was already troubled.

She knew she looked ruffled, then again, she had just gone how many rounds with ruffians. Looking a ruffled was better than most of her opponents had faired. The bruises she knew would be forming in the next few hours were forgotten as she too, checked Arthur over. For all their sniping at one another, she would stab herself before she would allow anyone to get away with harming him. He looked alright though. No more worse for wear than herself. He was dirt streaked, just like her too and she gave a little smile.

"I'm fine," she replied when she was satisfied he was as unharmed as herself. "A few bumps and bruises but nothing serious," she added with a wave of her hand. Others had been injured worse than herself. And she'd copped worse sparring with Arthur over the years. Like that jarred wrist. Uther had berated them both, Arthur moreso, for that little incident.

"How is Merlin holding up?" the dark haired young woman asked with a gesture of her chin, already knowing his friend was gone. No need to rub salt into the wound.

-------------------

Setting: Village of Ealdor

Tag: Arthur Pendragon

Timeline: 'The Moment of Truth' - After the battle

[Arthur Pendragon]

Arthur was immensely relieved to hear that she was alright. He had not exactly initially been in favor of the women joining in the fight . . . but he also knew that Morgana, and Guinevère apparently, were not the kind to just sit by idly and watch the others fight. They had engaged in the battle, and they had won because of it. The women proved to have that passion to fight for their land and what they believed in -- just like the men -- and they had been victorious due to it. Well, that and Will's little sorcery trick. Something that Arthur still could not see past, and yet . . . it had saved the people in Ealdor. It was moments such as this that Arthur felt greatly conflicted. He was raised to believe that all things magic were bad. How could they be when magic saved a village? How could someone who willingly stepped in front of him when an arrow was fired, be considered evil. Arthur could not understand it and that just made him unsure what to do with it. Though it did not matter now for Will was dead.

But right now, he was making sure that Morgana was fine, and even though she said she was, Arthur was slightly skeptical. She was not the kind of woman who liked to be fussed over, for he knew she was greatly independent. Still. She had grown to be someone he comfortably called a sister and for that reason, it arose an instinctive protectiveness over her whether it was something she wanted or not. "Are you sure?" He had to ask at least one more time, to be certain that she was not just putting on a brave face for his sake, and for everyone else here. When she asked about Merlin, Arthur kept his gaze towards her, finding it easy not to turn around for he knew that Merlin had not left the small house yet. "His friend didn't make it," Arthur confirmed, though she probably already knew that for she had not asked how Will was doing. She had asked how Merlin was handling his death. "But he'll be fine," Arthur added.

Though he would never verbally admit it, Arthur knew that Merlin was a strong individual. Not physically, but more so emotionally. He just wished he had been able to find a way to spare his friend's tears. Life had its cruel moments though, and nothing could be changed. He knew Merlin. He would not wallow in grief for the rest of his life. "We should stay for the funeral," Arthur added, knowing that Merlin would want to. That he would want to be here for the funeral of anyone who died from his home village. Arthur was not sure how quickly her and Guinevère wanted to get back, but hopefully . . . not, surely they would understand. After all, they were far more vocal and expressive of their compassion and understanding than Arthur was.

[mysery]

Morgana could see instantly the relief on Arthur's face when she confirmed she was unhurt. And her heart ached a little for him. As Crown Prince, the hopes, dreams and futures of the people of Camelot were upon his shoulders. They were the burden for his title. And she knew the Prince considered every one of his subjects safety his responsibility.

More than that, Morgana knew that Arthur would be deeply wounded if one of his friends was caused injuries when he may have been able to prevent it. She also didnt miss the air of conflict about her adoptive brother. She didnt know the details, though even she wasnt blind enough not to realise that wind had been unnatural, but something told her that this Will's death was involved.

"If I can best the great Prince Arthur, what hope did a few unruly raiders have against me?" the warrior woman said with a cheeky grin, hoping to make Arthur smile and hopefully ease some of the tension in his mail covered shoulders. "I really am fine Arthur. You taught me well," she added a moment later, her tone sobering somewhat as she looked the closest person she'd ever had to a brother in the eye. "Fair warning though, I will deny saying that should you ever bring it up."

Chancing a glance at the house Arthur had first vanished into, and then reappeared from, Morgana nodded her head once in acknowledgement of a fallen commrade. "Merlin's strong but he deserves time to grieve," she said softly before looking back at Arthur. "We can help clean up and rebuild also," she added, in agreement about staying for the funeral. As if she could abandon her friend, and she did consider Merlin to be her friend, when he was grieving. Everyone needed a shoulder to cry on, and the people of Ealdor could use the extra hands while they had them to spare.


-------------------

Setting: Village of Ealdor

Tag: Arthur Pendragon

Timeline: 'The Moment of Truth' - After the battle

[Arthur Pendragon]

Morgana had an uncanny ability to cheer Arthur up, even if it was by creating the slightest smile on his lips. She seemed to know just what to say. It was often her who was his voice of reason, especially when he was conflicted in terms of doing what he thought was right, and what his father told him to do. In many ways, she was like an adviser to him; a sister, offering advice when he so needed it. And right now, she provided him with something else that a sibling often did . . . comfort. He faintly smiled at first her teasing, then her acknowledgment of where she learned suck skills . . . and then back to the teasing. Either way, he was just so very thankful she was alive and well enough to be standing here, having this conversation with him. It could have been a lot worse, for all of them.

"You never bested me," he said, unable to resist the urge to deny such things; his arrogance would not permit him to. "You should not deny who your teacher was though. You should be boasting for most others would be incredibly jealous," he said, trying to also lighten the mood a bit. Arthur often used humor to mask his true emotions and well, that always worked the best for him. This instance would be no exception. Besides, ti was rather easier to do so when Morgana was clearly making an attempt to help cheer him up, which he appreciated to no end. When she glanced at the house, Arthur took the opportunity to look towards Guinevère. He had gotten to know a side of her he had never seen . .. a bold side, one that was far bolder than most servants should be. Though her brutal honesty was -- oddly enough -- something he had appreciated.

When she spoke again, not to appear rude or disconnected from the conversation, he looked back at Morgana, his faint smile completely faded at this point. "The more help they have, the better," he agreed, knowing it was the best thing to do right now. They come all the way here to aid them, so they may as well finish the job. "There is a lot that needs to be done," he stated. Had he not know Morgana better, then he would have suggested she take a break from all the intense labour that had yet to come. But as he had already recognized, she was not one to just sit back and do nothing. She never had been that kind of woman. "How is Guinevère?" He asked, glancing over at handmaiden, Morgana's best friend. He remembered how nervous Gwen had been about fighting the men, and he had taken some time aside to teach her what he could in such limited time. Still. It was easier to ask Morgana than Gwen right now.

[mysery]

The grin Morgana gave Arthur in answer to his denial of her besting him was nothing short of mocking. She had over the years, thanks to a multitude of practise with the Prince, perfected that look. It meant that the lady had expected nothing less, and didnt buy it for a second. That she saw through him easier than clear crystal. It was unsettling, she had been told, to be looked at as though one were a cornered rat with no escape. Good to know she would always be talented when it came to intimidating people. "No of course not," the reply came smoothly, a thick undertone of sarcasm. "You didnt need me for that. You knocked yourself on your own behind enough to make me redundant," she added. "A strong wind was all it took." Alright, that last parting shot may have been exaggerated, but Morgana couldnt help it. Needling Arthur was one of her favourite pasttimes after all.

"But you do make a good point. I should tell people who taught me," Morgana mused, tapping her chin as though deep in thought. "Which story should I tell first? The one where you get beat up by me, a girl, in a dress, with heels? Or the one where you knocked yourself out with the mace?" she asked, tilting her head curiously at him, grin now back, full force. Her smile began to fade however, right alongside Arthur's as they discussed more serious things.

"At least now their harvests will be safe," she said, and Morgana honestly believed that this freedom was worth the battle that had taken place. "Homes and fences can be rebuilt. Loved ones can be mourned," she added, her mind drifting to Merlin. The poor boy had a huge heart, she'd seen it in action on more than one occassion, but she understood the price to pay for such affection and selflessness. To feel the love and happiness so potently, meant one had to feel the pain and suffering just as strongly. And there wasnt many pains worse than the death of a beloved friend. "Their freedom was worth it. How Cenred can ignore his own people when they're in need makes me want to throttle him."

At the mention of her maidservant, whom Morgana herself had been worried about all throughout the battle, the lady smiled once more and looked to Gwen, who looked to be helping put out the last of the flames which had dwindled considerably since their lighting. "She did very well. Held her ground and struck when it was needed. Everyone did...." Morgana trailed off then, meaning every person in Ealdor. They had stood to fight for their homes and, as Arthur had said, they would never be beaten because their cause was just.

-------------------

Setting: Village of Ealdor

Tag: Arthur Pendragon

Timeline: 'The Moment of Truth' - After the battle

[Arthur Pendragon]

Her words always had a way of annoying him. But, that was what a brother and sister did, right? Constantly harass and tease each other. And right now, it seemed like the perfect thing to help lift some of the tension and dramatic events that had befallen Ealdor in the recent past. He even subtly rolled his eyes as she began to exaggerate stories of the past, underlying them with sarcasm and severe mocking. "I think you've sprayed yourself with far too much perfume, for you seem to be completely off from what really happened when we were younger," he teased. "You should rely on a far more reliable source to recall the events of our childhood: me." He said this with a cocky arrogance; the oh so infamous pride of Arthur Pendragon. "And I seem to remember you constantly tripping in said heels, unable to even administer a blow at me." Of course, that was not entirely true. She had learned how to fight rather quickly and while she did not often need to use such skills, she never seemed to forget them. The battle here in this village proved to be a prime example.

But not every subject of their conversation could be filled with sarcasm and humor. There were also more serious things to discuss. "Indeed," Arthur said in pensive agreement. He hoped that this would set an example to future bullies and raiders; that they could not so easily get away with their actions, for Ealdor was not the first village attacked by such villains, nor would it be the last. "Lets hope that this will set an example to future raiders, one that they will not take lightly." They had stayed strong and to say that Arthur was impressed would be an understatement. The topic of Cenred though, filled Arthur with annoyance and anger, and while he concealed his emotions, his voice would express his disapproval with the king.

"Cenred is a ruthless man; he cares little for such small villages," Arthur explained, aware that most everyone knew that, even before Hunith had told them. Arthur did not at all approve of the way Cenred ruled his kingdom and while he did not like to admit it, he knew that it was only a matter of time before Escetia and Camelot would be at war. "It does not surprise me that he refused them aid," he added, angry at the disregard of such a king. Truth be told, had Merlin not had such ties to this village, it would have been raided and probably destroyed. He looked at Morgana after having been distracted in his thoughts about Cenred. "Keep your distance from him, no matter how much you want to throttle him," he said a bit teasingly, knowing that Morgana would not actually confront him.

Arthur's gaze remained on Guinevère as Morgana answered his question. He was glad to hear that she had been alright, remembering her fear about being in battle. But he knew all too well how easy it was to defend oneself in the moment; when immediately and directly faced with danger. "Good," he said, relieved to hear that. "She was right to speak up for the women, to defend their right to fight." Arthur had been against it the entire time, until she stubbornly stated that the women would not back down. And in the end, it aided in the victory that everyone now celebrated.

[mysery]

Morgana could see, and only a blind man couldnt, that her words seemed to ease some of the tension from Arthur's shoulders. People moved about them already, cleaning things up, assessing who was among the dead, or simply just trying to burn off some of the joyous energy they were filled with. Only Arthur seemed troubled and worn down by the events of the last few days and, if one didnt know him, they might not even see it. Morgana had spent years getting to know Arthur and his mannerisms. He was upset about something and dealing with it in his usual way. By keeping it to himself. Uther certainly had ingrained in his son young that emotion was weakness. The least she could do for the man she called brother was to help alleviate some of his burden.

Wanting to do just that, she reached out a hand and laid it on his arm. Her own sword had been sheathed so her hands were free to help, or in this case, comfort. She could have continued their joke about their childhood stories, but eventually the humor would fade, she knew, and all that would be left would be the weary feelings. For however proud they may have been of this victory, it had cost everyone something. Though Merlin must have felt this loss the hardest. He had lost his best friend and many others he had no doubt known from infancy. Morgana wouldnt be surprised if he chose to stay behind to help his home recover.

"My father once told me that if you wanted to find the measure of a man, you look at how many true friends he has," the lady said. "For a good man will claim to none but have many, and an evil man will claim many but have none." The dark haired young woman paused as she considered how to say what she thought. She did stand up to Uther on many occassions, and voice her opinion, but she knew Arthur loved his father regardless. As part of she herself did. "I think you showed your measure in coming here," she finished, her eyes softening.

Morgana could have likened Cenred's behavior to Uther's if she were in a snipping mood, however she was not. And she had no desire to cause a fight between them here. This moment was for celebration, not anger. Uther had refused Ealdor aid also, fearing the consequences of it. What good was aid if one feared to bestow it upon those most deserving? "Kanen's warriors did not care if it is was woman or a man they faced. They would have killed them without hesitation either way," she replied, her voice grave and a little bit disgusted. Not that she thought women shouldnt be allowed to fight, but she feared even children would never have been safe from Kanen's wrath against Ealdor. Better they fight and die for something they believed in than for Kanen's delight. She was glad Arthur had run the tyrant through. But, turning her mind from those thoughts, Morgana brought herself back to her intial concern.

"What troubles you Arthur?" she asked honestly. "I can see in your face something is on your mind. Was it the wind?"

-------------------

Setting: Village of Ealdor

Tag: Arthur Pendragon

Timeline: 'The Moment of Truth' - After the battle

[Arthur Pendragon]

Arthur felt her hand come to his arm and felt an instant sort of comfort. While the two had their fair share of teasing and arguments . . . they knew when their limits. They knew when the other was upset about something, and often at that point, their words automatically transformed to ones that showed more evidence of affection and care for each other. With this said, Arthur still was not the type to fully disclose what troubles he bared. But if there was anyone who he considered to be the person he felt most comfortable in speaking so openly to . . . it was Morgana. Just as easily as she knew the exact words to say to provoke him, she also knew the perfect words to ease his mind. Just as a sister for did her brother. As just as her actions gave him peace of mind, so did her words. They were filled with wisdom and strongly assured his mind. He gave a bit of a nod of agreement and acknowledgment of her words. She constantly proved to be a woman truly filled with wisdom.

"They are men of little morals," Arthur finally said after a pensive silence. He did not understand that. Nor did he ever wish to. How could another so easily swing his sword at women and children? It was one thing to fight a man, and while Arthur did not consider women to be worth less, or vulnerable -- as they had disproved such an assumption today -- but it was more so about the respect that men should have for women. And the idea of a child's innocence. It disturbed him, to see that men like Kanen cared nothing for these values and morals that should have been instilled in them from an early age. They were bullies and tried to show that no man, woman, or child would stand in their way. It was positively sickening. "I can not understand it. And it was why I feared for the women who wished to fight," he continued to say, masking the full extent of just how disturbed he was by it.

"But you all quickly proved that he should not underestimate you. Without the help of the women, we surely would have not succeeded," he added with a faint smile. They added to the numbers they had. And he had witnessed some of them defeat their opponents. His smile fully faded however when she asked what was troubling him. And then mentioned the wind. She knew him too well at times. While others would not be able to detect a thing was wrong, she read him perfectly. It was both something he did not like, for he never wished to burden her with his problems. Bit on the other hand, he felt releived that she was able to . . . for talking to her about it, as much as he could, always managed to make him feel better. That was the more selfish part of him, but she was the closest thing he had to a sister, and was certainly someone he held very dear to his heart. He knew it had been a very obvious occurrence, but he did not know how many people had witnessed it. Apparently, Morgana had. He did not want to lie to her. Quite the contrary actually. He trusted her completely . . . as she was one of the few people he could safely say that he did. He never wished to withhold an important truth from her.

Besides, what harm could come of it now. Will was dead. And Arthur was not even within the jurisdiction of his kingdom, so it would not have mattered anyway. What troubled him the most, was the fact that Merlin had kept such a thing from him. That, was something Arthur did not approve of. Either way, he would have to choose his words carefully for he knew that Morgana's question came out of genuine concern for him, and he truly appreciated it. At the same time, she would also be able to tell in an instant if he was lying, and he'd much rather avoid that sort of guilt trip. She already knew that something was troubling him. He owed it to her -- as he always did -- to be honest. "Did you believe it to be out of the ordinary, far too convenient for us?" As if it were, magic that started it. He had to ask first, to see what her opinion on the subject was and if she had been able to tell right away that it was construed by magic, then perhaps it would be easier to give the full explanation.

[mysery]

Morgana smiled when Arthur nodded to her words. It wasn't easy being Crown Prince of Camelot, she knew from the strain and decisions she had seen Arthur deal with over the last few years. He took his role very seriously, even if some didnt think so from his outward appearance. And he also took his role as a friend seriously. He wouldn't be there in Ealdor, teaching peasants to fight for their freedom if he didnt. She was glad she could bring him some measure of comfort during this turmoil.

"And Ealdor has done right ridding themselves of the scum," Morgana replied emphatically. She didnt often cruse, but Kanen and his vile band of thugs deserved the title. They had hurt Hunith, Merlin's mother, killed a man in cold blood, and attacked a village for its harvest time and again. No excuse existed for these crimes. At least, none in her mind. Perhaps she was too decicive, perhaps not. Either way, Kanen had been run through and Ealdor was free. That was all that matter now. "We would rather die fighting than to see our families slaughtered and our homes destroyed," the lady said, her words strong. She spoke not just for Ealdor, but Camelot as well. Morgana would pick up a sword and fight to the death anyone who tried to hurt Arthur. Just as the women here had for their lives and families. She didnt miss the fact Arthur was holding back on her, but pushing the Prince, Morgana had learned, never ended the way you wanted it to. Best to let him tell his story in his own time.

When he smiled, honestly smile again, Morgana felt better for him even as he spoke. "So does this mean you have learned that I am not to be trifled with?" she teased, her own grin answering his smile. But her question about the wind seemed to have troubled him even more. So it had been what was bothering him. She had suspected as much. What had been exchanged in the small house, she did not know, but it had clearly affected Arthur deeply.

She considered how to reply to his question for a moment before opening her mouth. "If it was out of the ordinary, it could not have come at a better time," she replied honestly. Morgana had felt a brief moment of sadness and panic when she had realised the bandits were gaining the upper hand. Even with the women added to their numbers, the thugs had still been slowly beating them back. Magic or not,that wind had aided their victory and she could not honestly fault whoever it had been that had conjured it. Her thoughts on magic and it's ambiguity had only been srengthened of late, what with Mordred's appearance and eventual escape from Camelot, and everything else.

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Setting: Village of Ealdor

Tag: Arthur Pendragon

Timeline: 'The Moment of Truth' - After the battle

[Arthur Pendragon]

Arthur gave a faint smile when she cursed at the men who had raider Ealdor, for the last time. Though he knew that they would not be the last raiders. This was not an infrequent occurrence, and obviously, Cenred did nothing to abolish such behavior from taking place. To think, had Merlin's mother not been a part of this village, then they would have had to succumb to Kanen's completely unreasonable demands, forever to be bullied by him. While Arthur knew it was not the four of them who were fully responsible for Ealdor's victory, it was clear that they had helped. Even if there was a sorcerer among them who used his powers . . . for good? That was something else difficult for Arthur to understand. That magic could be used for such means, as it had been ingrained in him as a child, that magic was only evil. These were not conflicting thoughts that he felt best to vocalize. Will was dead, and nothing could change that. "It is just unfortunate that there are more people out there like Kanen," he said, voicing aloud his previous thoughts.

She spoke like a true woman of strength, not that Arthur ever doubted it. From the moment she had first punched him, he knew that she was not one to be underestimated. And when she learned how to fight with a sword rather quickly and skillfully, it only made her more formidable. Though he still wanted to roll his eyes at her teasing question, that Arthur was simply going to brush off as another thought quickly entered in his mind. "Speaking of not to be trifled with, father will have my head if he finds out I've let you go off and fight for Ealdor. Did you tell him anything when you departed?" Arthur had had to sneak out at night so that his father had not been suspicious. How had Morgana gotten away? Without knights? And dressed in her traveling attire, which showed she was not off to some pilgrimage, as did the lack of security. Arthur would have his own explaining to do, but was curious to find out if Morgana had said anything to the king to justify her actions. He doubted Uther would let her go just like that, had she offered him the truth.

Out of the ordinary. Her words had stolen his thoughts, and it did not seem like she was suspicious that it was magic which had caused it, though she may be thinking it. Never the less, there was no need to voice these details. Perhaps he would just leave it at that. "I agree," Arthur admitted. Even if it was magic, from someone that Merlin knew, from someone who had directly sacrificed himself to save Arthur . . . it had helped. It have given them the upper hand and Arthur could not judge his character negatively. Even if he was a sorcerer, he had died so that Arthur could live. This was not something the Prince would ever take lightly, or take for granted. "At least it is over now. I just wish it had not come at the price that it did." Meaning of course, the death of Will as well as the others. The villagers knew what they would be risking when fighting Kanen and his men . . . but the loss of any life was never a small price.

[mysery]

"And they will do well to stay away from Ealdor if they know what is good for them if there are more out there," Morgana growled. She had no problem whatsoever returning to this village to protect it from future threats if some other bandits got it into their heads that Kanen getting himself killed wasnt enough of a dissuading force for them. This was Merlin's home, and he wouldn't hesitate to do the same for one of his friends. Hopefully this would be lesson enough for anyone thinking of taking advantage of Ealdor. When Arthur mentioned Uther and the fact he would have his sons head, she grinned.

"While I think you'd look all the better with out it, I did take care of that," she replied. After all, the King's ward couldnt just up and disappear for a few days without it drawing somebody's attention. Gwen had been her saviour there. And Gaius. "I sent Gwen with a note to Gaius who was all to happy to inform the King that his ward would need to be kept in her chambers for the next few days while she recovers from a highly contagious sickness. Nobody should enter but Gaius." The older man had at first refused, but when she'd explained why she needed it, he'd finally caved. She had wanted to help Merlin and Gaius knew as well as anyone that when she got it into her head to do something, it was better for all to just go with it. Arthur was the only one who hadn't learned that lesson it seemed.

"After that, you'd be surprised how far a cloak with a good hood will get you," Morgana added with a grin and a tap of her chin. She grew more serious though as Arthur agreed with her about the wind. Only a fool wouldnt think magic had caused it, but if he didnt want to use such words, she wouldn't. Even if Will had been a sorcerer, she couldn't fault Merlin for keeping it from them. They weren't even supposed to be here, and Ealdor wasn't part of Camelot technically. By rights, they had no need to know.

"No one ever wins in battle Arthur," Morgana said softly. "One side just doesn't lose as heavily as the other. Everyone pays a price when they fight, but at the end of the day, one has to weigh that price against the cost of not going ahead with the battle." And Morgana honestly believed that. This fight needed to happen. "We made the right choice, though I too feel the losses."

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Setting: Village of Ealdor

Tag: Arthur Pendragon

Timeline: 'The Moment of Truth' - After the battle

[Arthur Pendragon]

Arthur had a feeling that they would. For this set an example, if not for other villages then at least for Ealdor, that they should not be underestimated. He only hoped that they would remain in safety for as long as they could. And it seemed that everyone who had come, was dedicated enough to return upon a moment's notice and without an ounce of hesitation. Arthur would have to deal with his father's consequences, but thinking of the good that had come with it . . . a lecture and angry words from his father -- even a few nights in the dungeon as he had put him in there before for disobeying orders -- would barley be a price to pay for having helped saved these people. He would willingly take whatever punishment his father threw at him, but no matter how severe, he would never regret his decision to come here and help these people. Even if they were in Cenred's kingdom. Arthur looked at her unamused, shooting a sarcastic expression her way when she commented that he'd look better without his head. Leave it to Morgana to say a thing like that.

He listened to her explanation and it sounded fairly believable. Though his father would probably be consumed with worry throughout the next few days. It was clear that his affection for Morgana was immense, and any time she was in danger, or ill, or even prick her finger . . . his father would hold strong concern over it. "You had better hope that my father doesn't consume himself with so much worry, that he no longer cares about he contagiousness of your supposed illness." Meaning, that he would be so worried about her, he'd check on her, uncaring of the risk that he too would catch what she had. For if he did, he would only be disappointed and more worried not seeing her there. Of course, in turn, Arthur knew he would get the blame for it, especially since he had only told his father he was going hunting, and he would therefore be suspicious that both Morgana and his son were absent at the same time. So really for Arthur's sake, he hoped his father did not check on her throughout these past few days.

"And you couldn't have waited until nightfall to depart?" He asked. This time, his question came out of deep concern for her and the others. Nightfall, meaning the time that he had departed for Ealdor. It would have been safer for them all to go together. The group of them had left so quickly and Arthur had caught up to them regardless of their earlier start. He supposed it made sense, that they would have to travel a bit slower and a more evened pace, as the women were not overly used to traveling such long distances, but still. "You should have waited. What if something had happened? What if you had been attacked on the way?" While Morgana held strength with a sword, she would have been outnumbered. Merlin could somewhat defend himself with one, but he was no trained combatant. And Guinevère and Hunith would not have stood a chance against a bunch of armed men, like bandits, or an attack of creatures that lurked the woods.

"You should have waited for me to go with you," he concluded, as he would have felt much better being there to escort them along the way, having feared that someone could have happened to any of them. It had been part of the reason Arthur had caught up to them so quickly, not resting a single moment along the way; cause he feared for their safety. Not only in Ealdor, but also along the journey. At least nothing had happened, though it was always the What If question that rung in his mind and worried him. Next time, he would make sure they did not leave without a proper escort, for he knew that there would probably be a next time. Who knew what the circumstances would be, but there were most certainly be another occasion in which the lot of them set out to protect someone or something they cared about. And when that day came, Arthur would be better prepared and have a better plan set out both in terms of how they all left, and what excuse he gave his father as his reasons for departing.

Her next words were spoken with strong wisdom, ones that he agreed with. No one wins a battle, for in the end, whoever the supposed victor was would always be left with loss. There would always be casualties and that was something that would never be changed. That was something that every war had; the price that every battle had to pay. It was also something that a knight never quite overcame, the loss of a friend and fellow combatant. And even being the one to end an opponent's life. While it was all for the cause of serving the kingdom, or helping another, or self defense . . . it was impossible -- for Arthur anyway -- to grow immune to ending another human beings life. Images of war and battle would always haunt him, but this was the burden any knight had to bare. And Arthur was no exception. "You're right," he agreed in a low voice, possessing this knowledge but to hear someone say it out loud made it easier to acknowledge. "It is just that, this battle . . . it should not have happened. For it was driven on nothing but the desire to bully others and prove a raiders authority and dominance."

War was one thing. It took two kingdoms, tension, and a hell of a lot of politics for a war to start. In this case, the people had suffered for something they were already entitled to; something that they should never have suffered for. "An entire village suffered for one bully's greed." Arthur just shook his head when saying this. Kanen had no authority over these people, other than a few mindless minions who agreed to follow his lead. It was just revolting in which the manner of all this arose. Arthur was not trivializing the fight of course; it just made him strongly detest men like Kanen for tormenting others just because they could. "But I do agree. We made the right choice." Even if he had died amidst the battle, he still would have believed he'd made the right choice as he would die with no regrets.

[[ How did this post get so long?!?!? My apologies!!! ]]

[mysery]

"Nonsense," Morgana snorted, waving away his reply about Uther. She'd thought of that too. "Gaius will assure him it is nothing but a common cold and it is in his best interests not to enter. He will ensure Uther doesn't catch out our little white lie," she finished with a grin. Arthur had probably just said he was going hunting and that was it. Some master plan that was. And his expression, while he probaly thought it was scolding or supposed to make her repentant, only made her want to laugh. No doubt that would go over well. She was half tempted to laugh just to annoy Arthur, he needed some laughter right now, but decided to refrain. She didn't want to be disrespectful to Merlin or the friend he had lost. "Tell me Arthur, since we can't all go out hunting at a moments notice, what would seem more suspicious? Three people departing in a crowd? Or three departing in the dead of night?" she asked sarcastically. Yes scathing sarcasm it may be but she liked pointing out when Arthur was an idiot. Then again, it happened so often she hoped it didn't lose its appeal.

"You worry far too much Arthur," Morgana added, rolling her eyes. Yes, they may not have been in the best position if they had been attacked, but there was no way they could be sure Arthur would go with them. They had to take the chance while they had it. "Besides, if you had been with us, and we had been attacked, who's to say you would have been of any help," she finished, tapping his shoulder with her sword before sheathing it.

Morgana sighed as Arthur discussed the battle. She agreed completely with him, but sometimes such measures were necessary. They had done what was needed to ensure the safety of the people here. And these were Merlin's people, his family, his friends. There was no way they could turn their backs on this village when it was in so dire of need. "And that bully paid for his greed with his life. I do not agree with murdering people, but Kanen would never have left Ealdor alone if you had not done what you did." Morgana looked at Arthur for a moment before she shook her head. She knew how heavily this had to weigh on his mind. He was cocky and just generally a thorn in her side, but he was a good man. And a good man, whether in self defence or for what was right, could never be okay with killing.

"Come with me Arthur," she said suddenly, gesturing for him to follow her. She made her way over to where some of the men were gathering the bodies of the raiders to burn them. Nearby were the fields and she looked over them. "This is why we needed to do this Arthur. Now Hunith and the other villagers wont starve in the winter. The land they work so hard to make prosper is now theirs to harvest and keep."

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Setting: Village of Ealdor

Tag: Arthur Pendragon

Timeline: 'The Moment of Truth' - After the battle

[Arthur Pendragon]

Arthur fought the urge to just shake his head and Morgana's little lie. Did that mean Gaius knew? If he did, then it would not surprise Arthur that he'd help conceal the truth. While Gaius was a strong loyal subject, he knew that he was friends with Hunith and like a father to Merlin. He would want to see Ealdor helped, and not at the mercy of ruthless raiders. "You know how my father is." When it came to her at least. "He will probably not rest until he sees you." Until she was 'healthy again. Her next words about what was less suspicious, did not in any way make Arthur change his mind about finding it a good idea to let the woman -- and Merlin -- go off on their own to Ealdor. "It is not that difficult to sneak out of the castle, especially at night," Arthur pointed out. He had done it before numerous of times, and knew the castle like the back of his hand. "All I am saying is that it could have cost you and the others your lives by just going out on your own with less protection. If you have waited, we still would have left successfully." And they still would have been able to arrive at the same time.

But, what was done was done. He did hope that his words had at least enough of an impact on her to keep it in mind for the future; should they ever find themselves in a similar situation. "You worry far too much Arthur." He knew her attitude in this. The fact that she was independent, and he felt compelled to protect her . . . often made them clash. But was never enough to cause him to back down. "Clearly, I don't worry enough," he stated, for if he had, he would have made sure she didn't leave on her own with her handmaiden, Hunith and Merlin. Arthur rolled his eyes when she suggested he wouldn't have been of any help. "You know I would have," he said, first meant to reassure but his next words returned her tease. "You would have been outnumbered, and most certainly outmatched." Now, he was just making fun of her. He knew that he she was capable of holding her own, and he'd known it before this battle. He'd grown up with her, helping her perfect her technique. She was no knight, but at least she was capable of defending himself.

When they continued to discuss the battle, he knew she was right. Ealdor would have just kept coming back, perhaps taking lives for the sheer pleasure of it. Because he could. The people now had more confidence in themselves, knowing that if it ever came to similar circumstance, that banded together . . . they were capable of fighting off raiders, and keeping their land for themselves. When she suddenly urged him to come with her, he quietly -- and curiously -- complied. When she showed him the fields, and spoke of what this symbolized, what this meant to them: their lives. Their capacity to grown their crops and live in freedom. He had spoken such words on the eve of the battle, but seeing them now, and realizing what each villager here had accomplished, caused a peace of mind in Arthur. While guilt still was there, he knew that this, was not only the present, but their future as well. As he gazed at the fields, he remained silent for a few moments, fully absorbing and registered the implications behind her words. "You're right," he said in a low voice.

He knew that she was, and he had agreed all along, but with the evidence right there in front of them, it was far easier to acknowledge without having to add in a line about those people that they had lost. "I'm glad you were here," he said. Despite all his teasing and mockery over her coming -- and knowing that she would have chosen to when the opportunity presented itself -- he was still glad for it, and wanted her to know that. If something had happened then he never would have forgiven himself. But she was safe, and she was here to offer support to Merlin, to the villagers, and to him. "Thank you." While he could thanking her on behalf of all the villagers, he was personalizing it more and thanking her for the support she had given. Even though it was Guinevère who spoke up for the women, that was not what he was referring to. There was just something so comforting about Morgana's presence. She was a sister and what brother did not want someone he loved so dearly so around in such a troubling time?

[mysery]

Morgana had to resist the urge to bite at the jab Arthur presented, but she managed it as she led him to the fields. She watched as he absorbed her words, and Morgana smiled at his reply. "What are siblings for Arthur," she answered, nudging him slightly with her arm as she grinned. And they were as close to siblings as either of them had. They shared no blood, but if push came to shove, Morgana knew she could count on Arthur as though they were actually related. Did that not make them family in every other way that mattered? They didn't often have these moments, where all the teasing, the bickering, the one upping was put aside and they just enjoyed the presence of the other being around them, but when they did, Morgana cherished them. "I am glad you were here also," she added. "You gave the people, and I, strength when we needed it most."

She allowed those words to hang between them for a few moments before Morgana straightened and slid her arm through his. "Now come along. We have some clean up to do and I am sure Merlin could use some friends right now," she said softly, sadness colouring her tone. It was regretable, and sad, that anyone had died in this fight, but it was even worse for poor Merlin. He had lost one of his closest friends, someone he had only just had the chance to see again. It hardly seemed fair, but there was little they could do but help him send Will off with a proper tribute. And help the people right some of the mess created by their stand against Kanen. The world was certainly a much better place already with that tyrant gone from it.

Using their linked arms, Morgana began to lead the Prince back into the village. Some of the people were still rejoicing, but others had sombered up and begun work on the task that laid before them. She didn't know where Guinevère had ended up, she'd only seen her briefly after the battle, but Morgana had a feeling they would find her with Merlin. Gwen had this amazing ability to provide comfort in even the most trying of times, and Morgana hoped Merlin was being granted it now. He needed it more than most.

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Setting: Village of Ealdor

Tag: Arthur Pendragon

Timeline: 'The Moment of Truth' - After the battle

[Arthur Pendragon]

Arthur gave a small smile when she spoke of him giving the people strength. They had already been strong, and all he did was offer a few encouraging words . . . even though he did have his doubts. He was someone who had been brought up to ride into battle, aware that the honor of death in battle was a possibility. But these people were farmers, peaceful people. The fact that they had rose up against Kanen and his men, showed tremendous strength. It was not only knights who were honorable, and the villagers of Ealdor had proven that today. He looked at her as she put her arm in his, saying that they needed to help the people. She was right. They needed to do what they could for them and then return to Camelot for he knew his father would be less than pleased with their withstanding absence.

As they walked back, Arthur looked around. Despite the loss that they had suffered, there was an undeniable relief and joy in the air. It was a bittersweet victory, but a victory none the less. He could see some of the villagers collecting wood and straw to burn the body. But Arthur was going to search for Merlin, for as Morgana said . . . he needed friends right now. Despite the fact that Merlin had withheld the truth from him, he was not insensitive enough to lash out at him on the day his best friend passed on from the world. Just looking around, Arthur could not help but slightly smile a bit more. They had done it: the people of Ealdor had set a standard for all other villages, proving that they can stand up against bullies. But not only that they have the strength to fight them . . . but that they have the strength to win.

The End