Calling Upon Your Loyalties

[Rouland de Archer]

Rouland’s heels clipped the stone floor in the stables as he handed the reigns of his steed to the stable boy. He gave the boy a quick glance over as he bowed and extended his hands for the reigns. Rouland gave them him quickly with a quick remark, “Make sure he is well fed, I intend to ride hard back to my lands.” The boy nodded quickly and began to lead the steed away. Rouland walked away from the scene, taking off his riding gloves and shoving them into his pockets. To say the least he wasn’t in the best of moods.

The messenger had arrived yesterday morning to deliver the King’s message to Rouland and demand his presence in Camelot. It was only a fortnight after the dragon had attacked and Rouland was surprised that he had not been brought to Camelot earlier by the king; his niece had sent him two letters as she was still resting in Camelot after her accident during the dragons attack. Rouland did feel slightly guilty that he had not visited Caitrin earlier, but he had left it too late now for it to be acceptable for him to visit her before she was recovered. He would however have to bite his pride and visit her after his meeting with the king as he would be in even more trouble with her if he did not. He wasn’t afraid of his niece, but her temper was so quick and fiery that he did everything he could to avoid it. Plus, Rouland wasn’t sure what use he would be to Caitrin apart from someone to shout at, even though it had been her own fault she had been in Camelot when the dragon had attacked and she had paid the price for it.

Rouland had at least found his way to the Great Hall, he had been invited by the King to dine and discuss his contributions in aiding Camelot’s recovery. It was well known that Rouland’s lands created a surplus of grain and foodstuffs every year so of course he was one of the nobles who had been expecting to get a summons. It was inconvinent as the King probably would expect the help for free or at such a low price that it might as well be free; which meant less profit in Rouland’s pocket this year; fabulous.

He awaited the squire to announce him to the king, straightening his dark garments and taking a formal pose. He had no quarrel with the King, and of course he had to keep the King sweet because it wasn’t to Rouland’s advantage to make enemies in court, especially of the Royals.

Timeline: 2 weeks after the dragon attacked
Location: The Grand Hall
Tags: Uther

[kinguthersqueen]

Uther had no qualms about engaging in trade, but he also saw to it that Camelot was as self-reliant as possible, most of the time. This was an emergency situation, however. The normal tributes the nobles sent weren't going to be enough to replace what the dragon had destroyed. Some of them had been hit themselves, and Uther could not allow them to go hungry. Of course he would try to see to it that the peasants didn't go hungry either, but it was the nobles who would turn against him very easily if he couldn't help them.

Uther had sent messages to several of his allies, wanting them to come and dine with him while they discussed possible terms. It was a dual purpose thing, really-asking for help but showing that Camelot was still strong and was rebuilding well after the attack. A show of strength was needed, in his mind, to keep Camelot's enemies from getting any ideas. If the allies saw that they were strong, word would get around to others in the area as well, including quite likely some of the kingdom's foes.

One of the nobles Uther had messaged was Lord Rouland De Archer, whose niece had already been in Camelot during the attack. Uther had really expected him to come earlier to see how she was, but as yet, he hadn't. However, he had responded affirmatively to Uther's message and had finally arrived. Uther gave the order for the squire to show him in after the announcement was made, and he waited for Rouland to come in, then asked him to join him at the table.

[Rouland de Archer]

Rouland followed the squre in, giving a low bow and engaging the king with the usual accepted introduction, "My Lord King." Rouland took up the seat Uther gestured for him to sit at. He had an uneasy feeling about this whole situation, he wasn't sure how much the king was going to demand of him, or whether he would particularly want to pay up. The latter didn't matter, being a Lord of Camelot meant you had to put aside your own interests for the good of the kingdom sometimes as the Knight's of Camelot offered some of the best protection in the country.

Rouland had not seen the king for a month or so until now, and only really attended court when the council was in session. Caitrin, his niece, often tried to drag him to some feast or another but Rouland was never one for socialising without a reason. Here, the meal brought a reason, by giving the King supplies from his land Rouland was guaranteeing his peasants, his lands and his families protection once Camelot was well recovered; which was a good deal in Roulands opinion.

A servant hastened forwards with a goblet of wine which Rouland took graciously and set down on the table in front of him, "To what can I account for this honor my Lord?" Rouland asked courteously, sitting upright and catching the King's eye line, "I trust Camelot is recovering well after the attack?"

[kinguthersqueen]

Uther acknowledged Rouland when he entered and then let him get seated. As he'd expected, Rouland started to converse and ask about the recovery and, naturally, to question why Uther had summoned him. He was obviously curious and ready to tend to business immediately. He could sense a slight unease about the lord, but overall, he was cordial and polite.

"For the most part, yes, Camelot is recovering quite well. These have been dark days, but the kingdom has stood strong in the face of what has happened. It will take time, but we will rebuild, just as strong as before, if not moreso. And even now, we are still strong enough to fight back, should our enemies try to take advantage of this disaster."Uther said.

"I've summoned you, among a number of other lords and nobles, to seek as much additional help in the form of grain and supplies as possible, in order to aid our recovery effort. Obviously, I do not seek for this to result in anyone else going hungry, but whatever additional resources can be offered will be appreciated."

Of course, by 'anyone', he was mainly referring to his nobles and tribute-payers, rather than the peasants, but it was still true that if the lord had enough for himself, his peasants probably would have enough as a result.

[Rouland de Archer]

Rouland studied the king intently and sucked his bottom lip softly then taking in some wine, relaxing the conversation. He listened to the King and was relieved to hear that Camelot was recovered enough to be able to withstand attacks. That meant that his lands and his livelihood were safe at least. "I am glad Camelot is recovering. Fortunately my own lands and people were unharmed in the attack." It was a short reply but it was needed; the King needed to know if any damage had been done to lands extended from the castle. None of his property had been damaged, but Rouland's money and resources were expected to, of course, help the whole of Camelot rebuild. It was a small sacrifice on his part, his income always exceeded his, his wife's and his nieces living costs. Plus it meant that he gained the protection of the Knights of Camelot and that was priceless.

"We have a surplus of grain my Lord, I can arrange my steward to send whatever grain we can." Rouland looked at his goblet, sitting back and then keeping his eyes on the king, "Do you need anymore aid my lord King?" He asked dutifully, "As one of your faithful subjects I am humbled to offer my assistance in Camelot's time of need." It killed Rouland to be so... dutiful. It was an odd experience but Rouland had lived in Camelot for many years and always offered his loyalty to the King of Camelot because it brought the most reward and protection.

[kinguthersqueen]

Uther nodded as Rouland explained that he did have enough surplus to contribute the extra supplies Camelot needed right now. There was a sense Uther got about him, but he couldn't ever put his finger on it. He did his duty, paid his tributes and supplied his promised troops, so Uther never openly questioned anything, but it was sometimes possible to tell when a man wasn't entirely happy about his duty. Like perhaps he desired to be in a position of even more power. But, he never did anything unexpected, so Uther didn't dwell on it, just made sure that such men were quietly watched in case there was any reason to worry.

The first parts of the meal had been served, and Uther talked a little more as he ate.

"That is good. Whatever you can send will be greatly appreciated and will be put to good use."

Rouland said that his family had been unharmed.

"I am pleased to hear that. We were very lucky in that respect as well."he said."I am aware that your niece was visiting Camelot when the attack occurred and that she was injured. Tell me, do you have any word on her condition? I do hope that she is recovering well."

[Rouland de Archer]

The meal had commenced and Rouland was glad of it. Although he disliked the society within Camelot he certainly would never dislike any of the food from the castle kitchens. It was a treat to not be eating from his own kitchen for once with his cook mumbling about his talents not being utlised enough by Rouland's family. Rouland seemed to constantly be around people who moaned at him; if he weren't so cynical or witty it would probably bother him.

Rouland had been to quick to say his lands had been unharmed because as Uther had been too quick to point out, his niece had been hurt in the attack. However, she had been attack in Camelot, not in his property. He still kept the stance that it was her own fault for staying in Camelot, he had warned her against prolonged stays in Camelot but as was Caitrin's way she did not like to be dictated to, therefore she had gone.

These thoughts should not suggest that he did not feel for his niece, however, Rouland and Caitirn's relationship was one of mutual irritation. Both enjoyed the other's witty retorts and Rouland couldn't see why Caitrin would want his company while she was recovering. She knew she wouldn't get any sympathy. "I have seen the physicians report." Rouland sniffed back, taking a sip of wine, "I must thank my Lord King for giving her, and I suspect others such close attentions. Unfortunately business at home prevented me from coming to Camelot until now, but I fully intend to visit my niece after our meeting has finished." He wasn't looking forwards to it, but physicians reports were one thing, to see Caitrin recovering was another.

"How is your own son, the Prince, my Lord?" Rouland asked, "I trust he was not injured in the attack?"

[kinguthersqueen]

Uther noticed that Rouland didn't answer directly about his niece, but he did say that he had read Gaius's report, so Uther did not press the question. His tone of voice told the king that while she had been hurt, she was probably going to recover, given the proper time and treatment. He would have had a sadder tone if she were dying, he surmised. Rouland thanked him for caring for her, and Uther nodded.

"We would do no less. The safety of Camelot's allies is very important. And we will look after her as long as needed, until she's able to travel again." Naturally, Uther was most concerned for the nobles, his tribute payers and supporters, but that was to be expected.

Rouland asked about how Arthur was doing.

"He is well. He was indeed uninjured, despite having slain the dragon himself. He was briefly knocked unconscious, but that was all. He is a remarkable warrior and will be a great king."

Of course, Uther had no idea of the truth about Merlin and the dragon.

[Rouland de Archer]

Rouland was glad, somewhat, that the King was so dutiful in his answers of looking after his niece. To Rouland, Caitrin should never have been in Camelot to be injured in the first place. "I thank you again my Lord." He was grateful as well because it was less likely that he would be charged for Caitrin's treatment as it had been in such an emergency. "My niece will also thank you when she is fully recovered." Rouland said thoughtfully, taking in some of his dinner. The food certainly was fantastic; there wasn't a complaint even Rouland could conjure up.

Rouland considered his niece up in her guest chambers, dying of boredom. He hoped her mare had been well tended whilst she had been recovering. "I think my niece will be glad wen she can be up and about, she enjoys being in general company." Rouland spoke confidently to the King, he was sure the King had seen Caitrin at court often enough to make a judgement on the young woman.

"I have no doubt Arthur will one day become a great King." Rouland toyed with his words; he had more hope in Arthur bringing peace to these lands than his father. From what he had seen of Arthur, he had a great sense of duty for his people. Rouland couldn't relate to that because he couldn't say he had a duty to many people in his life, but he respected Arthur's courage anyway. If there was peace in Camelot then Rouland's lands and family would be safe, and that was all he could really hope for.

[kinguthersqueen]

Rouland thanked Uther for looking after his niece, and Uther nodded in reply. Naturally, it was a duty he had to keep his nobles happy and ensure they remained strong allies, but he did it without complaint; he was happy to help as long as they remained favorable to him. It was true that he had to focus most of what Camelot had on rebuilding the city, but he would ensure that any of his allies who'd been affected would get what help was available.

"It is a pleasure to help...naturally, the primary focus here must be on Camelot's recovery, but I am happy to offer my allies who were affected by the attack whatever is available.he replied.

Uther was happy about Roluand's commending of Arthur; it seemed that the prince's reputation continued to grow; most who encountered him had many good things to say about him. Uther nodded a wholehearted agreement."Let us hope so."

[Rouland de Archer]

Rouland was grateful for the careful attention he assumed had been given to his niece. She had even been given her own chambers, even though her injuries were minimal. He knew his niece would be itching to get out of her confinements and back into the society that Camelot had to offer. He chewed over the next part of his dinner thoughtfully, really he should move his niece sooner rather than later. At least she would be in her own surroundings. On the other side of that though she would be in closer proximity to give her earache which wasn't in Rouland's best interests.

"I'm sure everyone will be better and merrier once Camelot is fully recovered. According to my niece, a heavy court and a large feast can cure most ailments." Rouland was sure that she just told him that so that he would accompany her to the many feasts and dances she wanted to constantly attend. "Have you seen her in court recently my Lord?" He then spoke up, because if the King had noticed his ward he was sure others would have noticed her, "She is coming out of herself a bit more than she used to. I suppose it must have been hard for her coming from the Mercian courts at such a tender age." Of course the motive here was to see how overt Caitrin's courtly charms were proving. If she turned heads at dances and feasts then it meant she had suitors, and therefore she had the option of which connections she took up.

Rouland thought hard about how different Camelot would be under Arthur's rule. Rouland could not see his life being much affected. His niece's life might be slightly different as she was on friendly terms with the Prince and therefore she would probably be a court favourite. However, Roulands lands, wife and other property would continue untouched, and that was all that worried him, "I'm sure you have nothing to worry about my Lord King, he does after all have one of the best tutors available." He took a gulp of wine, Rouland always seemed to know how to change a situation in his favour. The world was full of people who could not speak to change a situation and were not articulate enough to do it. Rouland was blessed happily with the ability to change the situation to suit his purposes.

[kinguthersqueen]

"Yes, I agree. We will indeed have a celebration once the rebuilding is complete."said Uther."Perhaps I will see you again.

Rouland asked if the king had seen his niece in the court as of late, and Uther thought back."I believe I have, a couple of times. She did seem to be more sociable as of late. I do not believe she'll have a problem finding a suitor when the time comes. She is a fine young woman, you should be pleased."

There was only a bit of talking for the next few moments, as Rouland made another compliment about Arthur. Uther did have a tendancy to boast about Arthur, and it wasn't totally unmerited, but Uther knew it would not be polite or do him too well to push things too far. Uther nodded in agreement, but didn't continue to talk about Arthur further. He did take note mentally, though, that Arthur's reign would likely benefit Rouland's ward, given that she had made a friendly acquaintance with the prince.

[Rouland de Archer]

At the talk of festivities Rouland found himself only able to nod politely and smile at the King. Anything which meant mingling with men and women in an enclosed environment did not suit Roulands taste; nor his wife's. But of course, formalities are formalities, "I would be honoured to join such an occasion." He wouldn't, he'd hate it, but appearances were appearances.

Rouland took another swig of his wine, the liquid burning his throat on the way down. He was never sure what he should feel towards his niece; happiness? Pride? Anger? She certainly had tried to put him in as many frames of mind as possible over the last few years. She acted courteous when it was needed in public and continued to irritate him with her tongue when they were alone. "I am very pleased with my niece." Rouland said thoughtfully, "I am glad to see now she is well adjusted, perhaps there is hope of a suitor yet." He certainly hoped so, and soon. There were the political advantages of marriage and then there were more pressing matters like Rouland's constant headache which would be addressed by getting rid of his niece.

It was now Rouland thought of Morgana, the King's ward. He had heard rumours of the woman's disappearance a few weeks ago but he didn't partciulary want to bring it up over dinner. That would set the tone in a manner which neither men would want to recieve company in. So Rouland just sipped his wine, waiting for the King to commence conversation.

[kinguthersqueen]

Uther could sense that Rouland wasn't exactly thrilled by the idea of the celebration they would have when Camelot was rebuilt, but the lord took the path of a good nobleman most of the time. He did what he had to, even if he didn't relish the thought. That was a necessity in life; one did what was necessary, even if they didn't totally enjoy doing it.

Uther listened to Rouland talk about his niece,nodding every now and then. He did feel a pang of sadness as he thought of Morgana and how he missed her presence in the castle. He would not stop until he found her and brought her back, and nothing would change that. But, for now, he did not speak of it. It would only darken his mood and destroy his appetite-he wasn't eating like he should these days as it was. He brought his mind back to the situation at hand.

"Yes, perhaps. She will make a fine bride, I think. Did you have anyone in mind for her as yet?"Uther asked.

[Rouland de Archer]

Rouland chewed over his dinner, thinking on the problems facing him with trying to find Caitrin a husband. He thought it would have been easier than it was actually proving to be. With her Mercian connections, Caitrin should be a jewel in any nobles collection, but so far Caitrin had managed to scare off anyone serious, providing Rouland with a problem. She was determined she would marry who she wanted, he was determined she would marry who he wanted. As well as that his brother bombarded him with letters about why his daughter still remained single; as if Rouland didn't have enough on his plate.

"I do not have anyone in particular in mind sire," Rouland replied, taking a gulp of wine before continuing, "Caitrin is set on marrying who she wants, whoever that turns out to be." If Caitrin chose well then of course Rouland would hardly be able to say no, it'd be ridding him of his constant headache from her and his brother. "My brother wishes her to marry for connections, and I am somewhere in-between their opinions." He looked at the King, smiling, not wanting him to think he was completely heartless towards his niece, "Unless you know of an elligable bachelor who could put up with her quick tongue?" He chuckled, letting Uther see he was being light hearted about the situation.

Roulands thoughts ran to Uther's own son. Surely he should be settled in marriage by the time the crown came to pass on? Rouland would never dream of putting Caitrin in front of Uther as a suitor for his son, after all, Caitrin and Arthur were good friends, and Caitrin was not of royal blood so it would never be an option to even be considered. "And what of your own son, Prince Arthur?" Rouland asked, "Have the other Kingdoms put forwards their suitors yet?"

[kinguthersqueen]

"Not off hand, but I shall see that word is passed to you if anyone suitable is around. I've little time for such things myself, but there are ways to get people to keep her in mind."

said Uther. He did not have a great deal of time for such things himself, but it wasn't out of the question for some of the nobles to watch. Sometimes exchanges could be arranged; some would not mind keeping someone like Rouland's niece in mind if he or others kept them in mind.

Rouland asked about Arthur. He did not doubt Arthur could put up with her, but although she was noble, she wasn't royal. A future queen of Camelot must be of royal blood. Some of the people spoke from time to time of betrothing Arthur to Morgana, but to everyone but Uther, she was not of royal birth either. And he would die before he would reveal that secret to her or anyone else.

"I have hopes for Princess Elena, given that Lord Godwin is a close friend of mine. It would be a strategic alliance. However, I do not expect things to be totally easy. Arthur will do as I tell him, but not without complaint I'm certain." he said.

[Rouland de Archer]

Rouland nodded and smiled up at the King with a simple, "Thank you." He was under no illusion that the King's words would probably prove to be empty, after all, Caitrin was nothing to Uther; why would she be? Really, the responsibility for a match should lie with Rouland's brother, and Caitrin's father, Sir Payton. However, the man seemed to be so occupied fighting wars for the Mercian kings he seemed to have forgotten that duty to his family, and so it was left to Rouland to scour the land and look for suitors; as if he had little else to do with his time.

Rouland could see why Uther would choose friendship ties over alliances from other Kingdoms. He knew of the Princess Elena and those from Gwent. It ailed Rouland that Uther was not furthering his interest in Mercia, although it was not Rouland's place to say so. The advantage to the de Archer's if Uther did choose to ally Arthur through marriage to one of the royals of Mercia would be unimaginable and Rouland's mouth formed a quiet smiled before answering the King. "I'm certain the Prince will do you proud sire." Rouland was sure Arthur wasn't so much of a fool to deny such an advantageous marriage anyway, "When are you thinking of inviting them to Camelot?" He sat back, as he had finished his meal and was now polishing off his next goblet of wine; at this rate he wouldn't be able to stay upright in his saddle on the way back. "I believe that if I were to ever arrange a marriage for my niece things would go less than smoothly." He took a swig of wine, "She is irritatingly stubborn and set in her own ways."

[kinguthersqueen]

Uther had an idea that Rouland would like it if Arthur married one of the Mercian royals, but Uther wasn't under a lot of illusions that something like that would be happening. There was a truce for the moment, thanks to the peace talks, but they weren't exactly close allies. Uther could rule out anything with Cenred's kingdom as well; even if Cenred had a daughter, no one in either kingdom would allow such a marriage. Olaf was out too. Even if not for Vivian's enchantment and that whole affair, he would not be able to stand Olaf as an in-law.

"Yes, I am sure he will. Of course, he can be quite stubborn himself."Just like himself, really. He'd definitely got it from Uther."But at least he knows that the welfare of the kingdom must come first. He may complain, and he frequently does, but he knows that I won't tolerate anything that would endanger or hinder the kingdom in any way. I'm going to invite them after things have settled, after we are rebuilt." Perhaps they'd have brought Morgana home by then, he thought.

[Rouland de Archer]

The meal was nearing an end as Rouland finished off the last of what was on his plate. He listened to the kings worry about his sons stubbornness with great curiosity. Arthur had always struck him as the kind of man to serve with duty, then think about everything else afterwards. However, those type of men seldom existed in the world, and if Arthur had the right kind of stubbornness than Camelot would benefit from his strong rule. He only hoped Arthur held his fathers views on magic in such a stubborn matter, it did no good for the kingdom to be frightened by a bunch of nancy’s in cloaks running about the forests. No, Rouland was like minded with the king on the magic front and could not see a point where he could see magic being used for good.

Rouland raised his goblet to the kings suggestion, only then realising how much wine he had actually drunk. Riding back would be a fun task tonight. “I shall look forwards to his arrival, and will join in the celebrations sire.” Rouland didn’t like venturing out from his home for anything, but the marriage of the future king of Camelot was a function he needed to be seen at, so he would probably ask Caitrin to keep an eye out for the festivities as she would defiantly be going; she went to every function she could.

He leaned forwards slighltly in his chair, considering his words before he spoke, “Perhaps stubbornness is the reason my niece and your son get on so well, they are like minded in that respect.”

[kinguthersqueen]

Uther felt a mixture of amusement and sadness. Rouland's words reminded him of the relationship between Arthur and Morgana. They were both stubborn and although they had always argued a lot, that was probably why they still got along as they did. Although no one would ever know, it was his own heritage showing in both of them and he knew it.

"Probably so. It is much the same with Arthur and Morgana, I suspect. Although I will say that such personalities can be a source of much conflict as well, depending on whether they agree or disagree on something."

Rouland said that he would join in the festivities when Lord Godwin came, and Uther nodded approval. He expected many of the nobles would attend to show their support."Very good. I look forward to it."