Bound By Loyalty & Honor

[Arthur Pendragon]

Arthur quite literally did not know what to do with himself. What did a disinherited prince do with their time when they were relieved of all their duties? Arthur wondered how soon it would be before he was kicked out of the castle. Had he not been disowned, he never would have thought such a thing was possible. He never thought his disagreements with his father would lead him to do such drastic actions against his son. But all that seemed to have changed, conveniently, when he met and married Lady Catrina. It was all just so strange. His father was a strong minded man -- which had both its positive and negative aspects to it. It was why Arthur could not fully blame Catrina for having anything to do with his decision to disown his only heir to the throne. Arthur had always felt he had been a disappointment to his father . . . and yet, he could not regret his position against increasing taxes. At least if nothing else, he stayed true to himself, even if that cost him his role as prince and future heir of this kingdom.

The past few days had been filled with such an array of emotions which had transitioned from one to the other in drastic measures. Arthur had at first not been in favor of his father being so . . . taken by Catrina. But later, he realized that it was selfish of him to not be happy for the King, for he had found companionship and it was something that every man should have. Of course, all these feelings of acceptance towards her as his step mother had altered when it was clear she was swaying the king's mind to do things that had detrimental affects on the kingdom, but that did not seem to stop him. It was safe to say that Arthur was no longer in favor of this marriage. He was opposed to it for it was no coincidence that the king had began acting this way when he fell in love with her. It only made him more curious to Merlin's words of saying that she was a troll. There was another thing that was difficult to adjust to: not having Merlin around. Hopefully, wherever the idiot was, he was safe and far away from the city.

He was in the outside courtyard. He was not dressed in his usual armor and knightly attire. Instead, he was dressed in regular, every day clothing. He would have to grow used to such clothing for it seemed his father had fully stripped him from his crown. Arthur did not know what would come next. Would he be kicked out of his chambers? Would he be forced to live as a commoner? He could not put anything past the king any longer. Anything was possible at this point, and Arthur hoped that sooner rather than later, the king would come around, realize his mistakes, and begin to remedy them. In the meantime, Arthur would remain powerless, and the civilians would be forced to pay a ridiculous amount of taxes that they would not be able to afford. He was not about to give up, and hoped that there was a way he could still help them. As he strolled through the courtyard, he caught sight of a fellow knight, and as all others, Arthur had developed a strong bond with this one. Sir Lucan was someone that Arthur fully trusted, and for that reason, began to approach him.

"Sir Lucan," he said to him when the young knight was in hearing range. Arthur did not want to draw too much attention to them for he was about to ask Lucan questions regarding the affairs of the kingdom. As Arthur was not on the council anymore, he was no longer privy to such information; but Sir Lucan was. The former prince needed to know what orders he would have to carry out based on what the king and queen demanded. He needed to find out as soon as possible and prepare for what Camelot was about to endure from the greed of its current sovereign. He kept a strong formality in his tone, just in case anyone may grow suspicious of him. He did not want to compromise Lucan's position for the king seemed to be rather . . . unreasonable as it was. Who knows what he may do to someone who was providing his disowned son to information. "I was wondering if I could speak to you for a moment." In private. He left it as an option for either Sir Lucan to accept or refuse. Everyone had to tread more carefully than usual, and so if this was a bad time to discuss matters that affected the entire kingdom and its future . . . then Arthur would have to find a better time and place to have such an important conversation.


_{Setting: Courtyard of the Castle
Time of Day: Lets say afternoon
Timeline: Shortly after Arthur is disinherited in Beauty and the Beast II
Tag: Sir Lucan}

[lucan]

It had all been mucked up from the start! A random woman coming and stealing the heart of the king! He was blinded by her and now she was Queen and to top it all off, heir to the throne!
The afternoon when everyone had been called to the council chambers, Lucan had wondered what on earth could they possibly have to say? They couldn’t raise the taxes any higher, the people were already starving, and Lucan had tried his best to take whatever the people had but leave some so as they could still carry on living. It was dreadful! The taxes were high as it was.
Lucan had kept a low profile over the last few days. When Uther announced that he was revoking Arthur’s title, he and the rest of the court had stood with their jaws dropped to the floor, while that vile woman who called herself a queen watched on with amusement. Lucan knew that something wasn’t right. It was unlike Uther to take away the rights from his only flesh and blood, and give them to some….Ergh beast!

As Arthur had walked out of the hall, Lucan slipped out after him, only hearing the last of Uther’s words that involved, ‘Catrina’ and ‘heir to the throne’. He hadn’t found the prince no matter how hard he looked, so he left him to his own devices. If Arthur needed help then he would soon come to him.

The last few days had been a blur to him, they had no prince to lead them and so training practices were all thrown up in the air, as to what tactics should be used and what could be improved. If anything Lucan was more angry for not speaking up when he should have. He’d sworn allegiance to both Arthur and Uther, but was starting to feel now as though he couldn’t even trust a word the King said. Not now he had a woman to distract himself with.

Today he was heading out across the courtyard. He’d decided to take a swing at some attack dummies to let out his anger. He could just pretend the dummy was Queen Catrina.

"Sir Lucan," he heard from behind him and turned. Arthur? Well this was a surprise; he hadn’t seen the prince since he’d walked out of the hall. He waited until he was almost near and bowed his head.

“Sire” he sighed almost with relief. Arthur would still always have that title no matter who disinherited him. If anyone saw Lucan bowing down to him then talk would be started as to where his loyalties lay. Lucan didn’t care but knew he had to tread carefully. How could you protect a friend if you had no head?

“I was wondering if I could speak to you for a moment."

“Of course” Lucan looked around to see if anyone was watching and then gestured to a place where they wouldn’t have anyone listening in. If the guards caught him talking to Arthur then they would most certainly tell Uther, who would then have his head.
“By the way did I ever tell you about how much I love your stepmother?” he smirked and then turned serious. “I knew it wouldn’t be too long before you came to one of us – what is it you need?”.

[Arthur Pendragon]

Arthur did not miss his gesture. He bowed his head and called him sire . . . even though he was no longer the prince. While he did not doubt his friend's loyalty it never hurt to be reminded of it through moments such as this. Being reminded of the fact that Arthur was indeed the true heir and that it gave some sort of hope that perhaps, somehow, his father would change his mind. He was not sure how . . . but he had to at least be hopeful. To give up on that thought would mean that he had abandoned the people; forsaken the kingdom, and Arthur was no where near doing such a thing. Arthur walked alongside him to where they indicated, feeling far more comfortable speaking to him in a private location. They would be able to speak more openly, and it seemed that Sir Lucan wasted no time in taking advantage of their secluded location, away from any wandering ears.

On any other day, or maybe any other circumstance, Arthur would have appreciated the joke. He would have laughed even for he knew that Lucan had a great sense of humor and it was why Arthur felt he was excellent company, and how the two of them had become such good friends to begin with. But right now, he was far too burdened with the decisions his father had made. He gave a subtle glare at Lucan, not out of anger, but more out of sarcastic appreciation. He was of course not mad at the man, just frustrated with the recently appointed Queen. "Be careful of what you say Sir Lucan," Arthur began. His voice held a strong tone of concern. It was easy for something to slip out and for someone to over hear it. Arthur did not doubt she had spies places . . . or at least that one odd man, Jonas he believed he was called. "Speaking such words in the wrong place for the wrong person to hear, could cost you your head." It was his way of telling him to be careful. To tread carefully. To avoid opposing the king, no matter what the cost. He could not afford to lose a friend as he had no power to save him.

"I was curious as to what matters are being addressed at council," he began, knowing -- though not hoping -- that their time was limited. That he would be able to find out as much as he could about the affairs of the kingdom. "Has the King made any more decisions pertaining to the kingdom?" He knew he was gong to raise the taxes, regardless of his son's disapproval. Or well, his former son he supposed. But Arthur wanted to know what details Lucan could give him. How much were taxes being raised? What else has his father decided, or rather, what else has the Queen persuaded him to do. Arthur was desperate to know and could not wait to see the effect of it on the people; he had to know as soon as possible.

[lucan]

Lucan bowed his head. “Forgive me – it was wrong for me to speak out of term, it’s hardly chivalrous or abides to the code, but then again – you know I never follow rules” he smirked. He wasn’t about to launch into the taxes that he’d been meddling with. “My heads already on the line as it is”.

He looked at Arthur. The prince didn’t seem like himself, just more of a shadow. Lucan knew that this was a tough time. “Ive been thinking about speaking to the king of getting you reinstated” he began, “so far I’ve only come up with one reason that is blunt and pretty much to the point – ‘he’s your son’, and I don’t even think that my word will be taken seriously anyway, but i'd sure like to try”. Anything was possible if it meant seeing Arthur take his rightful place as heir to the throne again.

"I was curious as to what matters are being addressed at council,"

Lucan nodded at this. Now that Arthur had no claim to the throne he had no claim to any affairs that went on in meetings or Camelot in general. Yesterday’s discussion had been ‘interesting’ to say the least. Lucan had spent most of the time trying to think of hideous words that rhymed with Catrina in his head. Flampina, sapina, cramhina, catreepa – no it was hopeless! Even in mind the woman was defeating him! And he was seriously getting annoyed about it!

“I see” he looked around and then leant in, “There has only been talk of her coronation” he wasn’t going to say her name, “apparently it is to be held within the next few days and all are to be in attendance, which unfortunately means me too – and you if I am correct”.
Lucan knew that it would pain Arthur to see some woman take his place and have a hold over everything he once had. “There were arguments yesterday that it was too soon, and I was one who agreed that it should wait for at least another month or so…in my mind I was hoping that it was never, but no – it’s to be as soon as possible”.

Lucan leant back against the castle wall, “and I think that they’re going to raise the taxes even higher once she takes the crown. I’ve already tried to do my bit – I know that I could die for it but at least it’s something right that is worth dying for”.
Lucan sighed, “already the people are suffering and if this goes any further then they will surely have nothing left.” He looked to Arthur, “I will do what I can quietly, I know I must – there’s already talk as to whose loyalties lie where, and im sure that soon I shall be one whose name crops up along the line.”

There was silence before he spoke again; “I will never bow down to Catrina, the only people who deserve that is yourself and your father”.

He bit his lip, “what would you have me do Arthur? I can’t stand back and watch this all slowly crumble – and without any good and valid reason for it to do so either”

[Arthur Pendragon]

Arthur slightly shook his head. "There is nothing to forgive," he informed him. His words were spoken out of concern really, above all else though he did not wish to elicit an apology from his friend. It was Lucan's next words that alarmed him. "No," Arthur said bluntly almost immediately after Lucan suggested speaking to the king to get him reinstated. Gaius had tried to defend him in the throne room when his father first made the announcement, but Arthur had discouraged him from doing such a thing; because he knew it would only land him in trouble. The king was irrational right now; Arthur could not afford anyone else losing their job -- or worse -- on his behalf. "I truly appreciate your loyalty Lucan, it is my honor to have that," Arthur began. "But I can not permit you to do such a thing." Arthur did not want to find out how his father would react to opposition.

"I need people in position whom I can trust." Who he could rely and depend on, even if he was not there leading them. "Sir Leon will take the command now," Arthur continued knowing that Lucan already knew this. "Follow his lead. For now, I need you to comply with the king and queen's orders." Arthur knew it was a difficult thing to do, especially when their demands were so seemingly unreasonable and unrealistic expectations from the people. But what choice did they have? Arthur needed the knights to keep their heads -- literally -- and for now, stay safe while he figured out what to do. "You ask what you should do, and this is it. I know that it is by no means an easy task, but right now, it is the safest." For the situation was far too unpredictable. Merlin was already in grave danger if he ever returned. He could not start to watch his knights and brothers get executed, one by one. "I will work on a way to fix all this." Truth be told, he had no idea what he would do. But he could not stand by either . . . not when he had -- or should have -- the legitimate power to help the people.

He listened on to what affairs he had little to no knowledge of. Her coronation. That was not going to be an easy ceremony to witness, but again, he knew he would have no choice. He would most certainly be present there but that did not mean he would enjoy watching his father bestow all the power onto such a queen. "I'll be there," Arthur said solemnly, clearly not enthusiastic about the prospect. But then again, no one seemed to be -- except for his father and the Lady Catrina. "I fear that my father will not listen to anyone right now, and those who opposite him are in danger of imprisonment or execution." It was why he was warning Lucan not to do anything about the present situation. Not try to help him, nor go against what the king ordered, nor refuse to bow to her. Arthur completely understood this difficulty in doing all this, but he feared what the penalties would be for such acts of defiance.

Arthur put his hand on Lucan's shoulder. "You're a good man Lucan," he told him. His actions and desperate desire to help proved how great a hear the man had . . . even if Arthur could not allow him to act on it. "Which is why I do not wish to see anything happen to you." The knights were more than just friends; Arthur regarded them as his brothers. They fought with one another, trusting each other with their very lives. To lose one of them would be devastating, and if it was preventable, then Arthur would do his best to protect them, no matter what the cost. "Stay under the radar, be compliant. I will not let the people suffer for long." It was his way of saying that he was not just going to give up; he was not just going to let this happen. He would find a way to get his father to see reason. Otherwise, he knew that the people would start to rebel -- entirely justified for doing so -- and there was only so long that the knights would stay loyal to a king who showed no regard for the welfare of his people.

[lucan]

Lucan knew that Arthur would oppose to the idea. He knew it was a delicate situation and that the King didn’t seem to listen to what anyone had to say at the moment. Challenging his authority was a dangerous one, and Lucan knew he would die for it, should such a thing happen. “Very well sire” he nodded.

“You can trust me, can’t you?” he asked when Arthur said he needed people like that. Lucan also knew that Arthur couldn’t not only rely on him, but also Sir Leon and the others. Lucan also had a feeling that Sir Leon didn’t like the current situation anymore than he did, but he hadn’t the chance to speak alone with him about the matter.
“As you wish, but I feel useless just sitting back and letting this all seem to crumble” he replied when Arthur told him to carry on following orders. “Safe or not, none of us seem safe at the moment, not with her around anyway” he admitted. It was true, it seemed as though if anyone so much as looked at Catrina then she would most likely turn it into something treasonous.

The conversation then turned to the coronation. Lucan suspected Arthur might be present. “Let me help you fix this then” he suggested, “you’ve already come to me and asked about what is being discussed in the council – perhaps I could give you recounts of what has been said during sessions? That way you at least have some access and knowledge as to what is going on. Not that I or any other of your men wouldn’t not tell you – we are far too loyal to you to see that happen”. He told him. This was true. Not only was Arthur their prince and future king, but also he was their friend, and friends were there for one another in a time of need right?

“I wouldn’t worry about me” he smirked, “someone’s going to want to kill me at some point during my life anyway, I wouldn’t put it past anyone to run me through right now”. This was true, he was already turning a little rebellious as it was. “But for you? I will do as you ask – we’re already treading on eggshells so most of us are resorting to keeping our heads down for a while”.

[Arthur Pendragon]

Arthur felt relieved when he heard Lucan agree, and could only hope that nothing escalated to the point of him suddenly changing his mind. He knew the knights were getting restless by just standing by and carrying out the ridiculous orders that his father -- and no doubt Lady Catrina -- were giving out. For it was making the people suffer, and Arthur could not understand why his father was so obliviously blind to that pain. "You can trust me, can’t you?" Arthur did not even need to think about his answer. "I do trust you Lucan." His trust and faith in his men was immense. "And I know this is difficult. Everything is very delicate right now though. It is best not to do anything to provoke her." But again, Arthur knew that it would only go on for so long before the knights even began to rebel. Arthur was certain the people would do the same after finding out about the taxes for he doubted Catrina would stop at this.

Arthur then thought of Lucan's proposition. It was a tempting idea, for it would be the best way for him to obtain information without further putting himself a jeopardy. At the same time, it could be having that exact opposite effect on Lucan and putting him in danger. But . . . an entire kingdom was at stake here. And Arthur refused to be uninvolved with it. He was the rightful heir, regardless of what Catrina and his father thought. And somehow, he would win back his title and rights. "I fear it is putting you at a great risk," he began to say. Though, knowing Lucan he would willingly take such a risk. It was part of the character that made a man a knight and moments like these showed how some exemplified the role. "But it's better than you saying something to her," Arthur added.

If he had to pick between the two, he'd pick the one with less severe consequences. "I don't want to compromise too many others positions. Even now I am concerned about the repercussions of putting you in this situation." Even if Lucan said he would do it, that did not mean Arthur wasn't worried about him. "If you are absolutely certain, then I will take you up on this offer." Arthur could never ask his men to step in the direct line of danger just for him. Usually, they did it for Camelot, but when there were extremely high risks involved, or little chance of success, he would always leave them with a choice. While this was something on a smaller scale, it was still a similar situation. Lucan was still putting himself at risk by willing to do this, and Arthur could not ask him to make this routine, but nor could he logically refuse his offer.

Arthur faintly smiled at Lucan's joke about someone wanting to run him through. "Well I would prefer that not be the next queen of Camelot," he told him . . . somewhat kiddingly. It was true of course, but he said it in a humorous way. He would not put anything past Catrina; she had already framed Merlin for god knows what reason . . . he was afraid that she would start arresting the knights, punishing them to a severe sentence. And this was something Arthur would have no say in. "But thank you for your compliance. And tell the others that I have not given up. I am still trying to find a way to put things back in their place; their rightful place." With him as prince, his father as king, and Catrina off the throne!

[lucan]

At least Arthur trusted him. In his words Lucan knew that the prince was only trying to protect him and the others from the wrath of Catrina. "And I know this is difficult. Everything is very delicate right now though. It is best not to do anything to provoke her."

“Define the word 'provoking'” Lucan grinned, “Does this mean that I can’t remove that poker from her?”.

It looked as though that Arthur was contemplating the idea of Luc being his spy. It would come at a price but would gain more advantages for Arthur right now rather than anymore disadvantages. Lucan was more than prepared to let his head roll for it, hence why he’d suggested it in the first place. "I fear it is putting you at a great risk,"

“Im a knight – I take risks everyday of my life, this is no different a situation to all the others that I’ve dealt with”. To him it wasn’t anyway. "But it's better than you saying something to her," Arthur was now finishing. At least he agreed. Lucan smiled and gave a small bow of his head. “We’d best get to work then”.

Arthur was now talking about how he didn’t want the others losing their positions either. Lucan was about to open his mouth when he spotted some guards just about to walk past. Waiting until they’d moved on and out of the square he turned back to Arthur and lowered his voice, “If I wasn’t certain then you wouldn’t be standing here having this conversation. We all know what Catrina is capable of – well…now we do, but it’s times like this when rank and positions don’t tend to cross your mind. Well, not in mine anyway – I’ve barely anything lose” except his life perhaps but he’d cross that bridge should he ever come to it.

With the deal sealed, Lucan then moved on. “We will need a certain day, place and time to meet – if im seen sneaking around so many times then questions will be raised. We need somewhere where no one will bother us.” He was starting to like this whole idea of being an Undercover Knight. “The others cannot know about what is going on but I shall tell them what you have told me”. At least they would have faith that Arthur was still trying his best to find a way around the situation.

[Arthur Pendragon]

Arthur gave a slight amused smile at Lucan's question . . . rhetorical question, Arthur was assuming. Never the less, he answered it anyway, just wanting to be entirely certain that Lucan would not speak his mind around the soon to be crowned queen of Camelot. "I think that would be best," Arthur said, a bit teasingly, but there was also a strong honesty in his words, really hoping that Lucan would heed his advice and not say anything out of line in her presence. He was not sure how much further she was going to go . . . but Arthur was well aware that raising taxes and his disinheritance was only the beginning of her reign. He would not be able to stand by for long and watch his people suffer. When he spoke about his daily life involving risks, Arthur knew it was true. It was why knights were always honored in their actions, for they made sacrifices for their king and sovereign and it was never something Arthur would take for granted. On missions where death was likely, the young prince would always ask who wished to accompany him -- and assure those who did not, would not be deemed cowards.

Arthur would never physically ask one of his men to put himself in direct danger for him. He would never assume that they should; but he would -- and frequently does -- feel honored when they did. "This is very different Lucan. For in a way, I am asking you to betray your king and queen." He may not have sworn allegiance to Catrina, but he had to Uther. And the way his father was acting right now, he had a feeling that Lucan would not be the only who would slowly turn against him . . . despite his position. The people would soon rebel, unable to pay the unfair demands put upon them. And the knights would not be able to follow orders that went against all that they believed in. "I do not know how to thank you for this," Arthur added in a low voice. This was something Lucan was doing for him . . . a persona favor of keeping him well informed with the goings on. He knew Lucan would perform this secretive task with the utmost caution, care and diligence. He knew for a fact that Lucan would not disappoint him, as he never did.

Arthur turned when he saw the guards, keeping a casually look so not to arouse any sort of suspicion. He could not assume that they would not report him if the was speaking out against the king. Arthur would not blame them if they did for everyone seemed to be living in fear these days. When it was safe to speak again, Arthur moved a bit closer just so that they would not have to speak at significant distance and could keep their voices low enough for only each other to hear. "I fear she is capable of far more," Arthur admitted, knowing this was treason. That he could be executed for these words; that they both could be killed if Catrina -- or even his father -- were to overhear their conversation. He wondered if Uther still saw him as a son, even if he no longer saw him as an heir. Probably not. For his mind was made him. "Which is why I am worried for your sake. You have your life to lose Lucan, and that is extremely high stake." He knew he would not be able to watch his friend burn, or walk to the executioners block if caught and sentenced to death.

"But I swear, I will make sure it will not go that far." That he will not possibly lose his life . . . that death would not be the punishment he would face if caught. He may still fear for his life, but he had already helped Merlin escape . . . he would not let another friend directly suffer under Catrina's wrath. When he spoke of a day, place and time to meet, Arthur went silent for a few moments, knowing Lucan was right. His presence may be noticed if he kept trying to sneak away during a certain time on a certain day. Who knew if Catrina had spies throughout the castle -- apart from that strange man she came with . . . Jonas, if Arthur remembered correctly. "The training ground," Arthur said suddenly. "For the time being, I still have the privilege of training the knights." But who knows how long that would last. Was he even still leader of the army? Was he even still permitted to serve on the army? He would not be surprised that if eventually, he'd be forced to leave his home the castle, and possibly even be banished from Camelot.

The thought caused him great heartache . . . but they were all fears he held in him. Anything was possible right now. "We will meet there, and discuss what we need to." The perfect thing about the training ground was that every knight was expected to go there . . . that it would not be suspicious for Arthur to be there, interacting with the men. It would be expected. Furthermore, there were many areas in which him and Lucan would hold private conversations. Arthur's tent for one, the side of the field where they could be casually sparring, the armory . . . even just off to the side where the water was so that they could converse with one another. "The others cannot know about what is going on but I shall tell them what you have told me." Once again, Lucan was right. Arthur knew this was the best thing. The more people who knew, the more danger everyone would be put in. It was best for everyone to have deniability right now.

"I agree," he said, only being reminded of the risk this was putting Lucan in."Thank you," he added, grateful to his friend for so many things, but in this instance, was thanking him for relaying the message. It would give Arthur peace of mind to know that they were reassured, and that they would not take risks . . . ones that Arthur was asking Lucan to take. "If you feel that Lady Catrina, or the king is suspicious of you . . . the second you feel watched then just leave it be. Do not keep sneaking around." Arthur would easily drop this entire ploy if Lucan felt he was being too closely watched and someone was suspicious of him. "And keep a close watch for Lady Catrina's servant, Jonas." Arthur didn't know what else to call him other than servant. "He tends to be constantly around, aware of almost everything that is happening." Whether it be with spies or because he was just good at slithering around.

[lucan]

"This is very different Lucan. For in a way, I am asking you to betray your king and queen."
Lucan shrugged, “Suits me just fine” then he looked to Arthur, “and if I were to ignore the matter then I would be betraying my Prince – disinherited or not”. He’d rather take Arthur’s side than stand alongside Uther and Catrina as they drained more money out of the people.

"I do not know how to thank you for this,"

“You don’t” Lucan smiled, “It’s my duty”

Their conversation reverted back to Catrina, and what she might do if she ever found out about what Lucan was doing. Arthur seemed to be showing great concern – fearing that his friend would lose his head. Lucan would much rather lose his head than his loyalty to Arthur.

“We’re all going to die at some point or other Arthur, sometimes for the good or the bad. It’s just something that we all have to deal with, and should it ever come down to my execution as a result of our plan – then I’d gladly let the axe fall knowing I’d done all I could to help you”.

Lucan looked around – just to check that no one was watching, especially that slimy servant of Catrina’s. Jonas? Was that his name? Never the less he was always slithering around the castle, insisting on being present during council meetings and whatnot. Lucan had thought him an odd character ever since the pair had arrived at the castle. His suspicions didn’t improve when Catrina managed to marry Uther and disinherit Arthur.
He was sure that Jonas had a hunch of what he was up to, and there was no doubt that he’d raised his suspicions to Catrina either. He was surer that he was living on borrowed time.

Once he and Arthur arranged where to meet – the Prince warned him of Jonas. It seemed they’d both had the same thoughts. His opinion of Jonas was almost as low as the one he had of Catrina.

"If you feel that Lady Catrina, or the king is suspicious of you . . . the second you feel watched then just leave it be. Do not keep sneaking around."

“Im sure that Catrina is already,” he told him, “and as for the sneaking around, I won’t” he lied. Of course he’d keep sneaking around. He wasn’t about to drop everything and give up just because of silly suspicions. Catrina and Jonas would need proof of what he was up to – they would never get it.

"He tends to be constantly around, aware of almost everything that is happening." Arthur was speaking of Jonas now.
Lucan nodded in agreement. “He’s present in the council meetings. Always watching and lurking – he isn’t at all how a servant should be and I’ve noticed this since the day that he and Catrina first set foot in the castle.”

[Arthur Pendragon]

Arthur just looked at him. He had been curious to hear Lucan's reaction to Arthur's suggestion of how this could be a betrayal to his king. He had expected something along the lines of sensitivity over being accused over such a thing, or assuring Arthur that he was still loyal to the king, but knew that something was not right. While Lucan often proved to be unpredictable -- in of course a good way -- Arthur truly had not been expecting such casual words from him. To say that it merely suited him when Arthur spoke of betrayal. Did it anger the young ex-prince? Not at all. Quite the opposite in fact. He felt . . . honored. A strange sense of honor. He could not quite explain it. All the knights were his brothers . . . he trained with them, he fought alongside them, they all risked their lives for one another. But he was well aware that their allegiance was to the king, to his father, Uther Pendragon. Yet, here Lucan was . . . indicating that his devotion to the prince -- who was not even technically a prince anymore -- was stronger than that of his devotion towards his king.

How many other men felt this way? Arthur of course was not going to go around one by one and question such loyalties. But, it was a curious thought. It was . . . unexplainable. He never doubted the men's loyalty, nor did he find this treason when Lucan was so willing to go behind the king and queen's back . . . it meant that he was loyal to him though. To Arthur; the man, not just the crown. He knew Uther was being unreasonable in his demands, but still. Still. Leon had said something along similar lines . . . how long would they be able to stand with their king, and not be supportive towards him in heart? Arthur knew he needed to say something, but expression with words was never something he was skilled at -- as Guinevère could attest to that -- especially when he felt this strong sense of honor and exceeding sentiment.

Arthur extended his hand for Lucan to shake. Obviously, Arthur was not exactly the hugging kind of guy. But this this was still something less formal, and more reflective of how he regarded Lucan. More than just a knight, more than just merely a friend. "I am honored to have such great loyalty from a brother." It seemed that Arthur was being surrounded more and more by people who he could call brother . . . knights, for specific reasons rather than just the fact that they were knights, and Merlin too of course -- though Arthur would never admit that, to anyone . . . not even Merlin. When Lucan assured him that Arthur had nothing to thank him for, he knew that was not true. "You are going far beyond your duty right now. This is not something I will soon forget." He wished he could repay him somehow . . . but it was not as if he could give him gold and call it even. No. No amount of currency or wealth could compensate for the risks he was taking.

While death was the only guarantee in life, Lucan was not going to die anytime soon. Not if Arthur had anything to do about it. "Don't be so eager to meet your maker," he said a bit teasingly, for Lucan was clearly rather casual about the subject; nonchalantly mentioning his potential death and Arthur would not have him thinking along such lines. "Your time to die is not soon. I will make sure of that," he said with great confidence and assurance. He often spoke such things on the eve of battle to encourage his knights . . . to encourage them that they were not alone in the struggles of battle that they would soon face. While this was not something of such violent nature, it was filled with danger none the less. "So rid your mind of such thoughts," he added. As more certainty came to this plan, Arthur's mind was already working through ways to avoid him getting caught, and what to do in the event that he was in fact caught . . . for it was indeed possible.

When he suggested that Catrina was already suspicious of him, Arthur knew that too was true, but more in a general manner. "She is suspicious of every knight, and I am certain is waiting for that one excuse to get rid of anyone who she believes opposes her." He paused, wondering how quickly that would happen. "I am unsure why, but she falsely accused my servant of something. I don't doubt she had her reasons of needing to get rid of him." Arthur knew for a fact that Merlin did not steal what he was accused of. He trusted his servant with his life, he would not do something so foolish. What Catrina did was a clear warning and example; that whatever she said would always appear true to his father. As if he was locked in some sort of spell. How could anyone be this ridiculously smitten when they were in love? Arthur knew what it was to love another, but he did not feel he was acting so out of the ordinary because of it. If anything, a woman brought a man strength . . . not weakness.

When Lucan revealed that Jonas was already present in council meetings, Arthur was not surprised. He had seen him lurking about during them, and as Arthur was no longer privy to being present in them . . . well, that was the purpose of this entire undercover mission Lucan was being offered for. "There is something about him," Arthur added, agreeing with how he acted differently than how a servant should act. "But do not underestimate him. He has strong ears and a shifty presence." Everyone Arthur had turned, it seemed that obscure little man was always about. He knew he would play his part in all this, for Arthur believed that whatever Jonas told Catrina about things he may have seen or heard -- even if he was making them up -- she would be inclined to believe him. Everything was so dangerous right now, for everyone. It just made Arthur feel all the more uneasy about her becoming queen of Camelot, which would be happening far too soon.

[lucan]

Lucan shook the Prince’s extended hand. He was surprised to find that Arthur didn’t go bananas when he spoke of taking the Prince’s side. But then again as Arthur had said – this was a different matter.

“And I am glad to be serving a far greater one” he smiled when Arthur’s brotherly comment had passed.

Lucan leant back casually against the wall. It was a pretty hot day and soon enough it would be time to train. Arthur was now going on about Lucan not seeming so set on dying and to stop thinking about it. Lucan chuckled and looked up at the sky. No clouds there today. Just clear blue. “Well everyone has those thoughts I suppose. If I happened to kick the bucket anytime soon then my father always has my brother to hand over the estate to” Lucan grinned, “I guess what im trying to say is that we face challenges everyday that could potentially kill us – and I’d rather go down fighting than watching from the sidelines”. This sentence mirrored not only battle, but also the undercover operation against Catrina.

Ah yes Catrina and her suspicions. "I am unsure why, but she falsely accused my servant of something. I don't doubt she had her reasons of needing to get rid of him."

“Merlin?!” Lucan almost choked on his own laughter, “You can’t be serious – he can't even fight himself out of a paper bag, let alone being capable of stealing!” Lucan liked Merlin – he usually saw him trailing after Arthur or watching from the sidelines on the training ground. There was something about the boy that seemed to mould well with Arthur. The pair were complete opposites and from what Lucan had seen – a very good friendship had formed between them. “Do you think Jonas and Catrina are suspicious of Merlin then?” he dared to ask.

"There is something about him," Arthur spoke of Jonas again. "But do not underestimate him. He has strong ears and a shifty presence."
“Im always on full alert when I see him” Lucan replied, “and unfortunately now that’s going to be more often”.

[Arthur Pendragon]

When Lucan shook Arthur's hand, he took his other and lightly hit his upper arm a couple of times, a gesture of further friendship. Well, what knights did anyway. It wasn't quite a 'cheer up' punch, but more so, an act of appreciation. He released the knight's hand, allowing both of his own hands to fall back to his side as he watched Lucan lean against the wall, listening to his next words. It was true. Death tended to be a common thought when one put their lives on the line practically every day. When Lucan mentioned his family, specifically his brother, Arthur was a bit surprised. He did not know a great deal about Lucan's brother, for he seldom talked of him. He knew that alone was telling enough . . . as their brotherly relationship was not the strongest. But Arthur never pushed for more information. He would never pry on such personal matters. "If something happened to you, the future of your estate would not be the primary concern." For his family, nor anyone else. While Lucan could say such things with a smile, the death of a friend -- or possible death -- was never something Arthur could casually talk about.

When he spoke of how he wished to die in battle, that did not surprise Arthur. The greatest, most honorable death was one given in battle. For some knights, it was their dream to die in such a way. For others, it was what gave them courage when in the midst of fighting. With Lucan . . . well, he was one who easily walked in front of the face of danger and embraced it. "I know you would," Arthur said smiling, a hint of a smirk in his expression. "But this will not be your battle to perish in." If he were to die in battle -- which would hopefully not happen -- then it would be in a far more glorious one than in the tyranny of one woman. "I will not let Lady Catrina be responsible for the death or injury of anyone in Camelot, so long as I have breath." It was his solemn vow, that even without position . . . without ranking or title, he would not let her rule Camelot to her desire, leading it to the ground while people suffered. "And you are no exception to this," he added, using him as a specific example, though the following conversation of Merlin was another prime example of how he would so easily go against his father's sentence to protect those he trusted.

He could hear the amusement in Lucan's voice and his words caused a short chuckle from Arthur . . . because they were so true. Merlin wasn't exactly, subtle. The man couldn't keep a secret if his life depended on it! "Tell me about it," Arthur said fully agreeing. He began to wonder where his friend had gone off to. Would he go to Ealdor to lay low while they sorted this whole thing out? Hopefully wherever he was or is, he hasn't not gotten himself killed. "I do," Arthur said, answering Lucan's question of whether he believed Catrina and Jonas to be suspicious of Merlin. "I don't know why they are, or what he said. But I know Merlin, and I know he is incapable of doing such a thing." Not only because he wouldn't be able to get away with it -- hell, he couldn't even get away with spying on Catrina through her window -- but also because he knew it was not in Merlin's nature to do such a thing. He would never steal. "But he tends to talk more than he should. He probably said something to offend her."

Even when he was leaving, he just kept saying that Catrina was a troll. The first time he had said it, Arthur thought it was hilarious. But it being his last words that he spoke to Arthur before escaping . . . Arthur found it less amusing and more, intriguing. For there had been an undeniable . . . desperate sincerity in his voice. When Lucan assured him that he would always be on full alert, Arthur relaxed a bit. Catrina may have many spies within the castle, but he knew that Jonas was her greatest one. "If you get the chance, inform the others as well," he told him, knowing it was not fair of him to keep placing tasks on Lucan. But right now, he was his best mode of communication between Arthur and his knights. "For I doubt you are the only one who will be vocal in your opposition to Lady Catrina and the king." Even if they did not say anything in front of either ruler, he didn't want them to be saying something on the side and just happening to be overheard by Jonas. "Even if it is spoken in privacy, it is not safe to do so," he added, knowing that very little was safe these days . . . including the future security of this kingdom.

[lucan]

“To my father it would” Lucan told him as Arthur mentioned the estate would not be of concern. “Elaine would be jumping for joy too” he smirked, “It’s strange, I used to be so close to her and then she just pushed me aside when Griflet was born. Treated me like dirt – the typical evil stepmother she is now” he grinned. Elaine was cow to say the least. Lucan had many words for her – ones that couldn’t be repeated, especially in the presence of royalty, but there was no mistaking the dislike that both he and Elaine held for one another.

Arthur was clearly set on not letting Catrina harm anyone in Camelot whilst he was there. Lucan was grateful for this. She was the only woman in the world that he hated – with the exception of Elaine of course.
And Merlin? Well – obviously the servant had offended Catrina in some way. Arthur was now stating this.

“He’s quite a suspicious servant himself,” Lucan said thoughtfully. He remembered when Merlin accused Bayard of trying to poison Arthur – and had instead drunk the poison himself. “Lord Bayard if you remember?” he looked to Arthur. “And he can talk for Albion” Lucan snorted, “I think he’ll have to learn when to finish his sentences a sentence earlier”.

"If you get the chance, inform the others as well,". Lucan nodded at this. “Of course, I shall speak to Sir Leon about the matter and then inform the others.” Sir Leon did have a right to know after all – he was the second in command. “Although I doubt Sir Yvain will be impressed – he says he’s looking forward to the day that he gets to run Jonas through” Luc chuckled, “then again, Yvain doesn’t like anyone”. This was true. He also didn’t care about what he said either. Lucan knew that with Jonas and Catrina in council meetings, he’d have to shut Yvain up before the Queen did so herself.

“Don’t worry Sire – I’ll make sure that everyone knows just what he’s capable of” Lucan told him honestly and pushed himself off of the wall. “Come, walk with me? I was on my way to beat out some anger on one of the attack dummies”.

[Arthur Pendragon]

Arthur knew he could not make presumptions about Lucan's family -- for he had never met any of them. But he could not imagine a family who cared so little for the death of one of their own. Perhaps it was because Arthur did not know what it was to have a large family. It had only been him and his father for most of his life . . . and then when Morgana came, he gained a sister. Maybe not by blood, by certainly one of the heart. And that was it. What other relatives he had, uncles and such, were not a direct part of his life, having very little influence on it. Strange though, that Lucan had trouble with his stepmother as well. What was it about stepmothers?! They seemed to be a figure of . . . well, maybe not evil, but certainly tension and discourse. "I doubt your father and siblings at least would be rejoicing in your death," he told him. Again, Arthur could not know for certain . . . but a father, hating his son so much? Surely not! His stepmother . . . he could not speak for. Arthur had enough problems with his own stepmother.

Arthur smirked when Lucan commented on how suspicious Merlin was. That was true . . . Arthur often called him shifty. Which he was! "That he is," Arthur agreed, thinking of all the times in the past that Merlin had brought so much truth to that statement. But when Lucan brought up Lord Bayard, that was something Arthur could not readily joke about. For that day, Merlin had saved his life. He had accused Bayard of poisoning the goblet -- and while it had not been Bayard who was responsible, he was still right about the poison. And knowing this, he still willingly took a drink from it. That had been the point in time where Arthur completely trusted his man servant. With the Valiant thing, the poisoned chalice, Cedric . . . damn. Arthur hated it when Merlin was right. But of course, boasting rights was not a privilege he granted him. "He saved my life that day," Arthur commented, never able to forget that, nor did he want to.

"He does indeed talk excessively, but the man is harmless." While Merlin knew his place among the knights, his constant insults towards Arthur often left him annoyed . . . in the way a brother was annoyed with his brother. "I can't imagine what motivated Catrina to accuse him of false crimes." Stealing her possession? If Merlin had ever wanted to steal anything, he could easily take it from Arthur's chambers for he knew of where the keys to everything was kept, and he knew about that very large chest of gold under his bed. Why take something from Catrina? It just made no sense. That and the mere fact that it was just not in the man's nature to do such a thing. Not the man -- and friend -- that Arthur had grown to know in the past year and a half.

Arthur gave a short nod of gratitude when Lucan said he would let the others know. Especially Sir Leon, and then when he brought up Yvain, Arthur just shook his head, not at all surprised by his words or actions. Yvain and Lucan: quite the pair. "Well you best tell Yvain especially then to act with caution. That this is no matter to be taken lightly, or to be so easily joked about." If Catrina -- or even Jonas -- overheard such things, then it would be Yvain life in danger next. This was why Arthur feared for the fate of Camelot . . . because everything was just too delicate right now. "Thank you Lucan," he said once again, knowing he could not say that enough. When he asked him to join him, in perhaps beating the hell out of the practice dummies, Arthur was only too happy to comply. It was a great outlet for anger. One that Arthur often took advantage of whenever he got the chance -- or whenever his anger was overflowing. "I may have to join you in doing that," he said, already starting to walk alongside Lucan. Beating the life out of an already lifeless inanimate object. If Merlin was here, he would just use him as an equal substitute.