How we have changed in such short time (Arthur)

[bandach]

It had been a curious thing to witness such an event. The passing of father to son probably had been a bittersweet moment for the pair. Arthur Pendragon had been ready for it though, although, perhaps not the same could be said about Uther. But those were things best not to bring up and let others do the talking for it. After all, last time she had been in Camelot, which might had been a few months now, she had not been interested in politics, just like she hardly was now but took it with more grace. After all, even though her time was not yet, she should probably start to take her role of being princess of Gawant with confidence rather than uncertainty. Already though, people had noticed a change. She held herself properly, and never stumbled any more. Well, she still stumbled on occasion, but there hasn’t been an incident of falling flat on her face for quite some time now. She could tolerate high heels if she knew she were to go riding afterwards, and could manage a conversation for ten minutes before awkward pauses and breaks started to enter the conversation. Even for tonight’s event, her usual trade mark wild blond hair was pulled back and brushed properly. Certainly, this had not been the same Princess Elena as everybody thought.

Of course though, all of this was for public show. Behind the signs, Elena was still very much that same horse riding, tomboyish princess at heart. She wandered through the crowds now, uncertain of where her father was at the moment, perhaps talking with Uther, she could not really be sure. All of Albion seemed to show up, royals and nobility alike. So much that it almost seemed rather cramped. If there were to be any talking to Arthur at all, it might not be until the festivities were over. It would be a shame really, since it had been a while since they had talked. Actually, Elena was quite certain that they hadn’t talked since their ‘wedding day’, and by wedding day, the day when they realized where their hearts really were. It had been funny to think, especially during the coronation, if they had gotten married as their fathers had planned, she would have been Queen of Camelot. An odd thought indeed to think about, but unlike Arthur, Elena was not quite sure that she would have been ready to be Queen. Thankfully though, that was not the case. Not to mention, she couldn’t have imagined Arthur being happy with her, nor she with him. Of course, not that it mattered. Just like she had heard of rumblings of Uther’s reluctance, she had also heard of the talks of a Queen in the making.

Camelot clearly was in good hands with Arthur Pendragon. Perhaps, her father had been right all along when he thought that times were changing. They would change with Arthur Pendragon and while she might not be ready to take on role of Queen of Gawant, Elena was certain that their kingdoms would forever be allies. The young woman allowed her thoughts to settle at that, after all, tonight was a night of festivities and she probably should not think any more about the all the things that had just happened, nor dwell on the past. Not to mention, the festivities were starting to pick up now. People were going to want to talk, and certainly not about what had been on her mind for the past few hours. After all, the ale was coming out now. Elena glanced around the crowds now, searching for somebody that she knew: Arthur, Gwen, Merlin, lord, even her father. Of course, there was no sight of them. Well, not that they were not there, just that she could not see them. Not to mention, she was certain that everybody was congratulating Arthur now; she would just simply have to wait for her turn. That and actually hoped that he knew that she was here. Elena decided upon getting fresh air now though, there would be plenty of time for hunting out for her friends. Taking one last look around the great hall, Elena pushed open the door and took a step out onto the balcony that overlooked the square now. Boldly, she walked over towards the edge and glanced over now, her forearms resting on the ledge as she glanced down at Camelot’s peoples’ festivities. A smile graced her lips, “Well, that most certainly is a sight,” she mused.

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Tags: Arthur Pendragon
Setting: Afterparty
Notes: I hit a massive writer's block during this intro. SORRY! I can redo it if needed.

[Arthur Pendragon]

It was official; Arthur was now king of Camelot. The moment he had taken the oath, and the crown placed on his head, everyone had known that leadership in Camelot had changed. And now, came the time when others would congratulate him, wish him a happy birthday, and express their joy over his taking the position that his father was not in the proper state to hold. It was something that Arthur was not conflicted enough by to reject this role for he knew it was what Camelot needed. Uther could not rule when his mental health was so compromised and he did not need much conviction; only the support of the council for Arthur did not want to become king in such a way that showed he was trying to overthrow his father. But now, his reign had begun and while was not sure how much would change in the years to come, he did know that he had already broken a few traditions. Mostly, with knighting commoners -- which he was well aware had caused tensions among others. And of course, with his plans of who to place on the throne next to him, which was not yet something that was formally known to all, but it was clear that since the kiss in the courtyard, his relationship with Guinevère was becoming a bit more public, and less endangering to her.

The festivities had commenced and everyone seemed to be enjoying drinking, socializing, and trying to forget all the darkness that had befallen the kingdom a few weeks ago -- under Morgana's tyrannical reign. It seemed to be working as most all were smiling and joking around with one another. Guinevère had been right; perhaps this was what everyone needed to bring hope to them and show that there was a brighter future that awaited them all. Arthur was trying to speak with as many people as he could . . . but there were a great deal many here. Arthur had seen Lord Godwyn, but had not yet had the opportunity to speak to him as he had been occupied with others. It was his daughter however that Arthur's eyes surveying the crowd had laid rest upon: Princess Elena of Gawant. The last -- and first -- time they had met had been . . . awkward, to say the least. He had felt they parted on good terms, but he was still uncertain.

She had agreed with his words which rejected the marriage, and seemed all to willing to avoid marrying him, something he had been so very grateful for. But he wondered if he had humiliated her, in front of all those people. He knew that was what his father felt, but her smile as they parted ways had somewhat diminished that fear. Not totally though. The fact that she was here, joining in the celebrations though, meant a great deal to Arthur. Gawant was a strong ally and Elena had become someone that he safely called a friend, despite what almost happened between them. He noticed she made her way to the balcony, which was all too perfect for he wished to speak to her in private for some time. He weaved his way through the crowd, stopping occasionally to meet and greet a few but they could tell he was trying to get somewhere so did not keep him too long. Once he got there, he slowly walked out and just looked at her for a moment. Something was so dramatically different about her. He had instantly noticed a difference in her when she walked down the aisle to meet him at the alter so that they could be married.

She had walked with elegance and grace -- something that had been greatly lacking in the previous days -- and she had looked beautiful with her hair cared for and her entire demeanor altered. Of course, in his eyes, no one was more beautiful than the woman he loved and he would never regret his decision not to marry Elena, but it was a curious thing indeed. Part of him wondered if she had acted that way -- clumsy and odd -- to try and convince the prince not to marry her. He would not have blamed her, and it would have made sense that she'd given up by the time she knew she had to attend her wedding, and reverted back to her more graceful self. Yet, this thought was not too strong for there was an undeniable sincerity about her. Arthur realized that it was rude to just be standing there and staring, lost in his own thoughts, so he began to approach her. "Lady Elena," he greeted, lowering his head in a bit of a bow. "I do hope I am not disturbing you," he added, unsure if she had stepped out to spend some time alone, or if she was waiting for someone else to join her.

[[ Its a PERFECT post!!! Don't change a thing about it!! hahah! I loved it! ]]

[bandach]

Elena had been trapped within her own thoughts, as well as watching the curiosity of the coronation festivities to even realize that there was somebody on the balcony with her now. After all, there had been so many people in the great hall that she didn’t even think that anybody would have seen her leave. Her eyes watched as people danced in the street and the light of fire illuminated faces and danced to the music. It was all very enchanting indeed and perhaps, the people were rather pleased with their new king. Anybody could see it, and Elena had no doubt that Arthur would make himself a fine king just by how she had seen his interaction with his servant, Merlin. She had also heard from others that he walks about Camelot grounds to talk to its people, and well, a lot of them seem to have rather go to the young prince at the time rather than his father. Perhaps it was just destiny that it was simply meant to be like that. Either way, Elena almost thought that the townspeople knew how to have a better party than the nobles and the royalty.

“Lady Elena,” came a voice now, distracting her from watching the festivities below. She glanced over her shoulder now, “I do hope I am not disturbing you.” A smile broke across her face now, how ironic that she had been looking for Arthur Pendragon and in turn, he was the one who had found her. Honestly, Elena almost thought that she would have to congratulate him on such a find since she certainly had not been able to find him. She turned around now to fully face him and dipped her head in a slight bow now, “Prin-oh, wait, King Arthur,” the young woman said with a grin now, “How wonderful it is to see you again. I was beginning to fear that I wouldn’t get a chance to see you tonight, and you are not disturbing me at all.” It certainly was exciting to see him, and she almost found herself reverting back into that loud, obnoxious princess just purely out of excitement. Oh, what Arthur must think of her right now looking like a new person, half the time, Elena could not really believe it herself, but people had welcomed the change with open arms. She supposed she had Arthur’s servant, Merlin, to thank for that one. Ever since he gave her that tonic to calm her nerves before the wedding, it had done wonders.

Either way, she was really not about formalities with Arthur Pendragon of all people. After all, they had nearly gotten married. That had to count for something as a mild bond for each other, if anything; Elena counted him as a friend, and no doubt, an ally in the future to come. It was funny staring at the boy before her, or well, man. He looked no different, but Elena could tell that he probably had matured even more since the last time she had seen him. Of course, Elena almost felt like that Arthur may have had to grown up a little more faster than he originally thought with what had happened to Camelot. After all, finding out that Lady Morganna was his half sister, as well as her takeover of the kingdom. It was quite surprising, and Arthur was lucky that she had not destroyed Camelot. Thanks to the young prince, the kingdom had been saved. Her dark green eyes continued to glance over him for a moment before she commented with a smile, “It’s funny how we have changed in such a short time.”

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Notes: YAYYYYYYYYY. I'm glad =)[/center]

[Arthur Pendragon]

While he knew they left on good terms, he had to admit that seeing her genuine smile instantly filled him with relief. He could not help but broaden his own smile, especially when she corrected the use of his title. "Come now, there are no need for formalities," he said in a bit of a teasing voice. While he knew she was paying her respects, he also knew that there were certain others that he did not feel should call him by his rankings. Elena was one of them, not only because she was a princess, but because she was a friend. Because the two of them had been somewhat forced to pass all formalities as they had been pressured to think of a marriage between them. When placed in such a situation, referring to each other with titles were not the first things that one prioritized.He continued to walk towards her as he was not assured by her encouraging conversation that she was not waiting for anyone . . . or if she was, she did not mind some company while doing so.

"I could not let tonight pass without seeing you at least once," he told her as he took her hand and kissed the top of it, lowering his head while doing so, a further sign of respect. He then released it so that it could fall freely by her side. His words were not meant to sound flirtatious, but more so said in such a way that showed he regarded her as no less than a friend. That she had been one of the people that he needed to see tonight for she had come all this way to rejoice with the others, and he was so very grateful for it. Arthur knew that they made better friends than . . . well, spouses. He would hold onto that friendship as dearly as he could. He was even considering explaining part of the reason as to why he had been so against the marriage . . . well, in more detail anyway. And that would be by introducing her to the woman he actually loved. But, all in good time. For now, he would just catch up with her for it had been months since he'd last seen her.

"It's funny how we have changed in such a short time." These words could not be more true. He could not get over how much poise she not had, and how she carried herself completely differently. "I could not agree more," he told her smiling, wondering if she herself knew just how different she was. How could one person change so much overnight? Had something happened that altered her to such an extent? Did she fully comprehend the differences in her? Undoubtedly, she would be turning a few more heads now, gaining more male attention than she had before. He remembered recognizing that he natural features were indeed beautiful; it was just her overall disheveled and disorganized look -- and lack of etiquette perhaps -- that had made her look less . . . desirable. But all that had changed. Along these thoughts, he felt compelled to compliment her. "You look beautiful tonight Elena," he told her. The last time he had compliment her had been at their 'wedding' and now, he felt the need to do so once more.

[bandach]

Elena was thrilled to see the young man’s smile broaden now at her words. Perhaps he had been afraid that there might have been bad blood between them after the wedding. With luck though, any thoughts that he might had had of them being on uncertain ground should be gone. Quite honestly, Elena could never really imagine being angry with Arthur, he had been in the same situation as she had. He hadn’t had wanted to marry her any more than she had wanted to marry him. Not to mention, regarding those rumors about there being a Queen of Camelot in their midst, well, the poor guy might had been in love with another at that time too. Elena could only wonder who it was though, and she surely hoped that it had not been anybody that she had been with during her time during Camelot, or that would only make her feel awkward about the whole thing. She smiled when he corrected her of the use of formalities between then, “Thank goodness. I hate using formalities with my friends anyways, regardless of their status.”

Honestly, she was quite happy for Arthur. Him becoming King is a very good thing for Camelot, and probably a good thing for him personally. But if she had to always address him as ‘King Arthur’ rather than just ‘Arthur’, well, that would get rather tiring rather fast. After all, it was kind of a mouthful when talking, whether food was involved or not, “I could not let tonight pass without seeing you at least once,” Arthur informed her now before taking her hand and bringing it up to his lips. She allowed her hand to swing back to her side now loosely, but she did smile, “Ah, Arthur, always such a gentleman, but I am pleased to hear that you had to see me tonight. I was almost afraid that I wanted to see you more than you wanted to see me. I could never be too sure since men don’t like to be beaten by women when horses are involved,” Elena replied with a grin. Never would she honestly forget that day where she had taken Arthur Pendragon by surprise. Granted, he did use the rose as an excuse, so it didn’t completely count as a fair win.

She really did enjoy these conversations with Arthur though, and honestly, she could only imagine how different they could have been if they had been married. In a way, she was thankful for their fathers shoving them together (not for the idea of marriage) but for the fact that she had discovered a true…well, friend. Of course, that friendship had come out of near life alternating mishap, but nonetheless, it had happened, and whether Elena would be willing to admit it or not, she would always be thankful for it. Elena smiled as he had agreed with her, hard to believe on how much that simple statement held true to him so much, but even for her, for the both of them, “You look beautiful tonight, Elena,” Arthur told her now, biding her a compliment. Wow, she suppose that she really should take care of herself more often, either that or thank Merlin. Laughter escaped her now as she shook her head lightly, “You know, you are the second person who has told me that tonight who is not my father. This is starting to become a really strange occurrence indeed. But it is your coronation Arthur, I know better to then embarrass myself a second time with you.”

[Arthur Pendragon]

"Thank goodness. I hate using formalities with my friends anyways, regardless of their status." Arthur smiled when hearing this, mostly because they were so similar in this way. There were times when he preferred to be addressed formally, but other times he did not. His mind often wandered back to Guinevère, when she used to call him with titles. He hated hearing it, and he felt she did it as more of a reminder to both of them that nothing could ever be. Merlin was another than often did not use titles when they were alone. He mostly used them in public for respect, but even now as king, he did not expect it from him. "As do I," he said, knowing he could not agree more with her words. Despite the fact that they were the same status, it was not why he was discouraging titles. He was doing so because as she had said and as he recognized, they were friends.

When she had begun to speak of her uncertainty in him wanting to see her, for an instant, he grew worried. While there did not appear to be any tension between them, he was not sure. She seemed to be in high spirits, showing her kindness and grace to him. Of course his concern almost immediately vanished when he heard the remainder of her sentence, about her having beat him in the race. He remembered that incident perfectly, as it was not too far into the past and . . . well, he doubted he could forget anything about her days here in Camelot under the assumption of them being wed. The fact that she was able to bring it up with a smile and such teasing in her voice, only made him more relieved. Though that was not the primary emotion he was expressing. He may as well go along with the joke. He made a bit of a face at her comment, not so readily able to accept defeat. Though he knew he had lost very badly. It had been the first time and perhaps the only time, seeing her -- and knowing of their father's intentions -- that he was able to genuinely smile.

"Well, you did have a head start. And I stopped to smell the flowers," he said, using the same words he had used then. His tone was jokingly arrogant, and a bit stubborn -- almost juvenile really -- as he did not want to admit he'd lost. But, he knew he had. Even when trying to catch up to her, he had been so far behind. Rather than feeling it as a wound to his pride, he had found it delightfully surprising, and . . . what was the word he had used then? Impressive? "Perhaps we need a rematch while you are here in Camelot," he suggested. But, he wasn't too sure about that. Mostly because he knew she would directly win and he'd run out of excuses. He couldn't exactly stop to smell the flowers again, or stare in shock as she bounded out in front of him. He would most likely still loose . . . and then he would undoubtedly have to admit that he lost . . . badly. What a way to kick off his reign as king: losing in a horse race.

When the conversation turned to his compliment, as he apparently was not the first, he smiled once again. She had become so much more beautiful, and yet not the slightest bit vain despite the attention he was sure she received now. With such modest woman, it made it so much more encouraging to pay them compliments; to want to flatter them, for they did not take it for granted. Elena was such a woman. "Really? Only the second?" He asked with a pretend shock, though he was surprised that only one apart from he had actually approached her to praise her. "I am quite certain that I and this other gentleman, are not the only ones who are thinking it." There was a fine line between being flirtatious and keeping an innocence in the way he talked about her beauty. He was making sure not to cross that, but she seemed to know exactly how he meant his words.

Of course, he could not exactly tell her that she had not embarrassed herself last time she was here . . . she had tripped -- numerous times -- snorted -- numerous times -- burped boisterously, and . . . well, seemingly lacked general manners in the way she acted rather than how she spoke to people. She had been respectful but . . . very . . . non-ladylike. But now, everything was different; she was so different. It was no wonder she was not used to such attention. People were now looking at her for a very different reason. "You really have changed so much Elena," he said, keeping a kind voice as he did not want to offend her by telling her how she had changed. "I doubt you could ever embarrass yourself tonight." Not with how she now elegantly walked, or how she gracefully laughed. Her mannerisms had drastically altered so he knew he could say such assurances with earnest.

[bandach]

As he agreed with her, she could not help but to simply smile. Arthur was so very different from some of the other royal children that she had met along the way. He did not act like he was better than anybody nor did he demand to be the center of attention. It was funny how much she looked at Arthur in a kind light, and yet, all what she simply saw in him was a friend or a brother like figure than a lover even to this day. Besides, they were friends and titles were certainly unneeded between them, even on his day of him being crowned King of Camelot. As terrible as it sounded, for she did not really hate Uther, but Elena did believe that the kingdom did need this change, and her father said it himself, many of the old traditions of Albion were becoming too old, and maybe they should change. Arthur would bring about that change, and Elena would certainly be one to follow it.

She noticed how a minor bit of worry flickered across his eyes, perhaps worried that there was bad blood between them. Clearly, he was taking her words wrong until the very end, “Well, you did have a head start. And I stopped to smell the flowers,” his words were arrogant, and dare she think stubborn? Of course, it could not be helped by Arthur, after all, he did lose to a woman but of course, at the same time, he was certainly joking as well. A flashy grin simply rested on Elena’s features as she shook her head now, shaking her head in a fake disappointment, “Ah, excuses, excuses, Arthur Pendragon.” Of course it was teasing, but it could not be helped. It had been fun, and certainly something that she could use as bragging rights for anybody now. She defeated Arthur Pendragon, best rider in Albion, oh wait, second best now. When he suggested the idea of rematch, Elena felt herself light up, “Oh, that would be wonderful. That is, if you’re okay with losing again.”

Laughter bubbled up from her at that statement, it could not be helped. It was such a breeze being with Arthur now compared to how it had since the last time. Although, the subject matter had changed, and while Elena was not shy about it, she still felt awkward, “Really? Only the second? I am quite certain that I and this other gentleman are not the only ones who are thinking.” It was a terribly strange thing to be complemented on beauty now, and of course, Arthur was being modest, not flirtatious at all, and yet it still embarrassed her. Lord only knew what she would do if another prince who wasn’t Arthur Pendragon might comment about it to her, she might as well burst, “Perhaps, but that remains to be seen now, although, I suppose I really must thank Merlin some time. I never got to the day after are almost wedding.” After all, Merlin had given her that tonic that seemed to complete fix her, if one could call Elena broken prior to that day.

Funny how at the talk of embarrassment, Arthur could not comment about it, although, of course, Elena could not blame him. Her last visit in Camelot, Elena had been her tomboyish self and certainly had not been much of a lady and rebelled against the very essence of being proper. Poor Gwen had to deal with that. Before her mind had wandered too long though, Arthur snapped her back to reality, “You really have changed so much, Elena. I doubt who could ever embarrass yourself tonight,” he said. His words were kind and tender, clearly treading lines as to not offend her, but of course, Elena was never easily offended, “Shhh. Don’t say that, you might accidently curse me Arthur. I still do have my occasional moments,” she said with a smile, “But enough about me. I have a question I must ask, and I usually don’t go off of rumors, but it’s almost too tempting not to ask.” She took a step closer and asked with a grin, “I hear that there is to be a future Queen of Camelot soon, is that true?”

[Arthur Pendragon]

It was so incredible, to speak to her with so much ease. Their conversations before had been filled with awkwardness and now, they spoke as if they had been friends for years and years. To hear her graceful laughter and unfamiliar charm . . . was such a refreshing change from their last encounters. He had not been sure as to whether she regarded him as a friend before he met with her tonight, and now he knew for sure that his doubts had been put to rest: that they would be good friends and strong allies for the many years to come. He was king, and she would one day be queen . . . Gawant and Camelot would remain strong together. And this union did not have to come through marriage; but rather, a mutual respect and understanding between each other. He smirked when she said he was just making excuses, and then teased him about losing. "If I do lose, it will certainly be no accident," he said, deciding that he would continue to play that 'I let you win' card. "It is just in my chivalrous nature to let a woman beat me," he added, again with that tone of joking arrogance. He knew she would not take offense in it; not from the way their interactions were, filled with light hearted comments, playful teasings, and jovial laughter.

Her next words filled him with curiosity. Merlin? Why did she need to thank him? What had he done now? Or well, apparently before their almost wedding. A term that was said so nonchalantly, that it showed the two were truly past any embarrassment from the day. Oh dear. Had Merlin said something to her about Arthur's hesitation to marry her? Is that why she had been so agreeable to reject the marriage as well? Merlin and had him had had a bit of a heart to heart conversation the first night of Elena's arrival, as Arthur had been distraught over the thought of marrying another woman, and Merlin had given him advice and comfort. Did he relay any of that information to Elena? If he did, Arthur was going to kill him. "Merlin?" He questioned, sounding casual in his inquiry though internally, he was filled with curiosity. "What had he done that merits your gratitude?" He further asked. Merlin had never mentioned anything to him . . . so this was the first time he was hearing about it, hence the reason he wanted to know. He chuckled when she said that he may curse it.

Had he not known any better, it was almost as if a curse had been lifted from her . . . that made her act all the more poised and, graceful. "I doubt my words hold that power," he further complimented, implying that she was far too graceful and beautiful for him to have the power to place any sort of curse upon her. He would have continued on with that thought but her next questioned immediately distracted him. "I hear that there is to be a future Queen of Camelot soon, is that true?" There were rumors about this indeed. Some of the people knew who it was . . . others had just heard that there was a queen in the near future . . . and others had no idea. The one kiss in the courtyard upon Guinevère's return in Camelot had been so symbolic, and the fact that others had witnessed it practically instantly made their relationship known to many. As oppose to what they were forced to do the years before: denying themselves the thought of a future together, or sneaking around out of fear for getting caught.Elena had asked the question with a smile, which was a good sign. Especially since she already knew the woman, as Guinevère had been the one who tended to her when Elena was here in Camelot.

While Arthur did not particularly care about other people's judgment, he was a bit curious as to what her thoughts would be. They would not change his own perception . . . for he was not ashamed of her in the slightest. She was indeed the greatest woman he'd ever known with the strongest heart, and soon, the rest of Camelot would be able to acknowledge this truth. "In this case, the rumors are true," he told her with a faint, but sincere smile. He did not often speak of his relationship with Guinevère, for there were some things that were just far too important for him to talk to others about. And of course, he was terrible in vocalizing his emotions. But he was compelled to tell Elena of her. For it would give her better understanding of why he could not go through with the wedding. He had already been in love with another at the time, and he decided that he wanted her to know. After all, her of all people deserved to know. "I believe you already know her," he said, his smile growing a bit. He doubted she would guess it was Guinevère, but he was just being a bit playful for the moment in making her think about the possibilities of who it could be.

[bandach]

It was good for her to see that they had easily gotten passed this whole forced marriage thing. Somehow, it almost felt like as if both of them had been dreading that day and what had lead up to it. Funny how the children could see where the parents could not on the compatibility. Thankfully though, that whole thing had proved to be a good lesson for her father, who seemed to find the whole thing comical in a way. Regardless of her actions though, Elena was happy to see that Godwyn had not been angry with her. On the contrary, to her at least, it seemed as if he was rather pleased with her and Arthur for finally putting their foot down and saying what they thought, with all correct mannerisms of course, rather than to allow themselves be bullied by all of the old rules of Albion. Either way, Elena found herself rather certain that neither of their fathers had to worry about Camelot’s and Gawant’s future together as allies, for while Arthur and Elena were there, all would be well, “If I do loose, it will certainly be no accident. It is just in my chivalrous nature to let a woman beat me.”

No sooner than he said that, the young princess felt herself roll her eyes. Not a very ladylike thing to do, but honestly, it could not be help. Of course, it was all done in good sport, for this was how the friendly banter seemed to work between them, “It may be in your chivalrous nature, but I still think you’re making up excuses,” she said with a grin now, “Because, I certainly do not want win unfairly, that just takes the fun out of everything now, doesn’t it?” She certainly thought it did, but after all, Arthur probably still had to keep the title of best horse man in Albion, so maybe that is why he was saying such things, that and to just go along with a joke. It was certainly curious how now, after everything, she felt as if she were truly meeting Arthur Pendragon for the first time, and that was saying something after their old fiasco since she had been stuck in Camelot castle for four days and sat in on one horribly awkward date. Although, the tables had turned when she had brought something up that Arthur had not expected, “Merlin? What had he done that merits your gratitude?”

Well, well, somebody certainly seemed to be curious. Elena simply stared at him for a moment, “What, he hadn’t told you?” she asked now. Although, perhaps it had not been important enough to have told Arthur, either way, she supposed that she should explain herself, “Well, you see, I was really sort of a nervous wreck right before the wedding, and Grunhilda was nowhere to be found and the in pops Merlin with this bottle of tonic. He told me that I would feel a lot better after I drank it. So I did,” of course, it did knock her out for three minutes, but there was no need to say that. Somebody might think her a light drinker, “And well, I did feel much better.” The princess said, concluding her story with a smile. Although, she still could not see what had been so interesting about this all really, but then again, Arthur and Merlin did have a rather interesting relationship despite them being royal and servant, they acted more as loyal friends rather than anything else and quite honestly, was quite a charming thing to see for it spoke much of Arthur’s character and perhaps, his future rule over Camelot.

At his words of further compliment, she simply smiled, “Well, one can never be too certain.” Although, now, the tables had quickly turned for Arthur had said the most curious things, “In this case, the rumors are true,” he replied now. The moment the words left his lips, Elena could feel her doe eyes growing wider by the minute and she felt herself get excited for him. No doubt it was a wonderful young woman, perhaps full of promise like he was, with luck. But before the princess could even ask him of who he was marrying and whether she had met her before, he spoke yet again, “I believe you already know her.” Now, that certainly threw her for a loop. Her eyebrows furrowed for a moment, thinking hard about who she might know and share in common with the Prince of Camelot but only one person came to mind. No, that certainly must not be, “Arthur Pendragon!” she exclaimed now, her hand shooting forward and yanking slightly on his cloak to bring him to her level now, “Don’t you dare tell me that you are marrying Vivian of Lyonesse?!” People certainly looked over at her and stared now, it must have been a crime to not put the word ‘lady’ before ‘Vivian’, but Elena did not care. So many times she had to entertain that girl, and the only thing that she ever seemed to talk about was Arthur Pendragon.

[Arthur Pendragon]

Arthur just smiled, with the slightest hint of a proud smirk when she rolled her eyes, accusing him of making up excuses. It was true, he was indeed doing so. Whether they competed in a horse race or not, he still wished to spend some more time with her before her duties called her back to Gawant. He was not sure what would happen in the following days, weeks, months, and even years. He knew that he had enough duties as a prince . . . but a king now? Would he have the liberty to spend any time with those he wished to? Not so much in the beginning, that was for sure. As Camelot was in dire need of reparations and . . . Arthur pushed the list of things to do out of his mind. He did not want to think on such things tonight, especially not in her presence. He wanted to totally focus on her, enjoying her company without allowing the stress of what tonight truly entailed to effect conversation. He just allowed the subtle smirk to remain placed on his lips, continuing on with the joke. "I suppose we may never know," he said teasingly. He had a strong feeling she would probably beat him, and prove to be excellent competition . . . but now where was the fun in admitting such a thing?

"Are you saying you’d prefer I had not stopped to pick a rose for you?" He asked, in almost an exaggerated and mocking tone of offense. At the time, he had been trying to charm her -- sort of – but now when he said it, he knew there were no romantic implications behind his words. That they were only two friends, and judging from their interactions thus far, he knew she would not think he was acting flirtatiously with her. "If I hadn’t stopped, I suppose we would have discovered the true champion," he added, only because the moment had passed . . . and he was still debating on whether he wished to recreate it or not. "But I really would hate to see you lose. What kind of gentleman would I be if I permitted such an ordeal to occur?" He was just being melodramatic, though, it was great fun to act in such a way. But next, Arthur was terribly curious to hear what Merlin had done to aid her, so listened attentively as she began to explain. He just slightly shook his head when she questioned if he had told her. Why hadn’t he? That was a bit odd. It was moments like these that Arthur – though jokingly – called Merlin shifty.

"Well, you see, I was really sort of a nervous wreck right before the wedding . . . " Weren’t they all. Arthur certainly had been a mess that day, even having told Merlin he wanted to fall on his sword rather than walk down the aisle . . . he had only been half kidding. He continued to listen to her explain. ”Really?” He asked curiously, not having heard a word of this. Was that how she remained so composed when forced to do something against her will? Arthur knew that that morning, he had been distracted, barley able to look at her, a million thoughts rushing through his mind, even though his body remained composed. His eyes had been distant, and he knew it. She had been so calm, so poised . . . all due to a tonic? "This is the first I am hearing of this," he admitted, still wondering why no one had made mention. Then again, why should they? It was not as if she had become his wife. "I'm glad to hear that you had been given something to make you feel better, even though it was unnecessary in the end," he said with a bit of a smile.

For in the end . . . she did not have to feel nervous or afraid. "I certainly could have used such a tonic on that day," he mused jokingly, wondering why Merlin or Gaius had not offered to give him anything. Though, Arthur wondered if he would have lost his courage to say something against the marriage, if he had this tonic, and if it had made him so calm and willing to allow everything to just unfold. He could see the curiousity so clearly in her eyes and began to smile, not the slightest bit nervous to reveal the identity of the woman he loved. He was not ashamed. He was wondering though what Elena’s reaction would be and was trying to find a way to word it. He had never come out and verbally said to another that he was in love with Guinevère. Usually, others discovered this on their own . . . somehow knowing, and Arthur seldom denied it. Though of course, it depended on who was asking him. Merlin had been the first to find out, and Arthur had admitted his feelings for her . . . sort of. Then others began to follow. Now, the entirety of Camelot would find out but even so . . . he wanted Elena to hear it from her. So that she knew, there was a very specific reason he did not agree to the marriage with her.

He was about to speak, but the smile quickly faded when she grabbed his cloak and pulled him towards her. His eyes widened with surprise, barley noticing the looks they were receiving from people passing the entrance to the balcony, or even the others on top of it, who just seemed to slowly slip away, apparently not wanting to interrupt . . . whatever had caused Elena to grab the king in alarm. "Don’t you dare tell me that you are marrying Vivian of Lyonesse?!"Who in the why with the what?! Vivian?! Where did she get ---------- Oh. Ohhhh. Right! He had supposedly been in love with Vivian! For some strange reason, Arthur had not even considered for a second that she would have entered Elena’s mind, but since she had, it made complete and utter sense. Their public displays of affection -- and the fact that him and her father had almost killed each other -- made everyone believe that the two were madly in love.

While Arthur, or Guinevère rather, had managed to break the enchantment for him . . . the same could not be said for poor Vivian. He recalled seeing her in Mercia and she was . . . well, she was the same as when he had left her. Poor girl. He did feel bad for her, but he still tended to avoid her, dare he say even hide from her, when she was near. "Dear god no!" He quickly disagreed, wanting to dissuade all thoughts of this being the possible future queen of Camelot, for even Elena seemed not to be in favor of this idea. And he most certainly did not blame her! His eyes went back to their original form – their non-widened from surprise form – as he maintained his composure and voice, to reveal who the woman was, before Elena continued to believe it was someone like . . . Vivian. "It is Guinevère," he said, with a small smile. The words felt so odd to say, for they were unfamiliar for him to say to anyone really. And yet, they came out with so much ease.

[bandach]

She saw the hint of a smirk upon his face, no doubt he was enjoying this and how she was just catching onto every single excuse he made about that day. Funny how they could look back at it so light heartedly now when Elena was quite certain that it was perhaps, the most uncomfortable, cringe worthy day of their lives, well, at least her life. It was almost as if she could still remember yesterday the awkward conversations and the look on his face when she punched him in the arm. No, that was perhaps a day that the Princess would not mind at all forgetting about, “Are you saying you’d prefer I had not stopped to pick a rose for you?” He asked her now, a mocking tone in his voice. It was a joke, she certainly knew of that, but still she could not help but to raise her brow, “Most certainly since it did make me sneeze,” she replied, but there was a silly grin on her face, making none of her words something that should be taken seriously.

They had tried so hard that day to make it work, and yet, they still failed, but perhaps, in the long run, it had been better that way, “If I hadn’t stopped, I suppose we would have discovered the true champion. But I really would hate to see you lose. What kind of gentleman would I be if I permitted such an ordeal to occur?" He added on now. The words alone brought Elena to laughter now and she shook her head, “Well then, before your kingly duties do call you away, I have to say that we should have a rematch,” she challenged with a grin, “And, you’d be an honorable one if you let me lose because then, my head wouldn’t get so big. After all, bragging rights are deserved only by true champions, not by those who won because the other didn’t have the heart to put all that they have into it.” After all, that would not be fun at all to win against the greatest only to be defeated by somebody else, that would indeed be a twisted turn of events.

It really was something that Merlin had not told Arthur about the tonic, after all, that seemed of something simple enough to tell him about. Although, perhaps the servant to the Prince was just thinking that it would be embarrassing telling him that his future wife to be was having a mental break down at the thought of marriage, "I'm glad to hear that you had been given something to make you feel better, even though it was unnecessary in the end," he replied now. A smile washed over Elena’s face, “Oh, do not worry about. I honestly quite think that I had needed it in general, not just because we were about to walk down the aisle.” And she ahd honestly meant it. Laughter escaped her at Arthur’s own words now, “I’m sorry to hear that Merlin hadn’t given you one. Although, I don’t think you really had needed it,” she said with a smile now, “I think we both had our minds made up even before the wedding had even been planned.”

And clearly, it was a good thing for there was already a queen of Camelot on her way to sit besides Arthur. Her identity has yet to remain to be revealed. Something told Elena that the King did not wish to tell everybody, that only a selected few actually knew who it was and perhaps, it seemed that the Princess of Gawant, was about to be inducted into this little club. Arthur seemed startled by her sudden reaction to his words about her knowing who it was, she couldn’t blame him right now though. After all of this talk of her being proper and elegant like a lady, that was quickly thrown off the castle walls, “Dear god no!” Those words alone made her release him, a wave and sigh of relief quickly washing over Elena now, “Oh thank god. You had me worried there. I thought I was going to have to do something about your wedding. I mean…Vivian. Do you know how often she talks about you? All the time, I dread every time my father makes me go see her. I feel like I want to bang my head in,” she replied now and-“

Elena cut herself off now, “It is Guinevère,” he informed her now. Guinevère…why on earth did that ring a bell to her. Then, it hit her as if she had been thrown off her horse. The girl, the servant who had been Lady Morganna’s who helped her that day in the city streets…the one who insisted on carrying her shoes that she tried to get rid of. Her doe eyes grew wide at this realization as she glanced back over towards the Prince now, “Arthur, did you two love each other during our proposed marriage?! I could punch you in the face right now, that poor girl had to help me out during that whole entire time! And there I was, marrying the love of her life. She must have hated me. Why did you not tell me sooner?” she demanded of him now, “Of course though…I am still invited to the wedding, am I?”

----
Notes: Sorry I haven't gotten around to replying to our other thread! I feel this one easier to reply to, doesn't take as much brain power to think and plan while I'm out working. But I will get to it eventually. I swear!

[Arthur Pendragon]

Arthur gave a short chuckle at her reminder over how the rose had made her sneeze. They both truly had tried so hard that day . . . and it seemed that just with one gesture, it was countered by the opposite, unexpected reaction from the other person. "True," he said, acknowledging that fact that his plan with the flower had failed. Flowers were usually good ways to . . . woo women. Not that he was trying to do that; he had been at least trying to make a good impression. But everything about that day had backfired. "I'll try not to make that mistake again," he said a bit teasingly. Was she actually allergic to them? Or was it pure coincidence that she had happened to sneeze at that moment? He had never bothered to ask, since things had already been awkward enough at the time. Arthur just gave a pensive expression, as if he was debating whether to accept her offer or not. "Perhaps," he said contemplatively, just trying to talk himself out of this situation to . . . well, to not have to admit that he lost. "Or, we could just go for a ride and enjoy one another's company," he suggested.

Now, he was just trying to suck up to her a little bit, by saying that he'd rather spend time talking to her and riding alongside her, than racing ahead . . . or well, in his case, trying to. When she went on to say that it would be more honorable to give her a fair competition, he knew she was technically right, though he'd not accept it. He was only challenging the subject because he knew she'd probably beat him anyone. And this time, she would win stronger bragging rights. "I don't think I would be able to see you so upset over losing, and knowing that I was the one to cause such tears in your eyes," he said with great teasing, obviously exaggerating how she would react if she were in fact to lose. "I think I will do the more honorable thing and avoid that sort of situation, but permitting you to beat me, again." As if he had control over the situation. Which he didn't. He knew he wouldn't be able to keep up, just as he had known the moment he saw her race out into the woods from the courtyard.

"Oh, do not worry about. I honestly quite think that I had needed it in general, not just because we were about to walk down the aisle." Arthur paused to think on that for a moment. Surely, not a simple remedy would have caused such a grand change in her. But how else did she mean that it helped in a more general way? That she had needed it? It was perhaps a better theory than his own, which was that she had been acting all, disheveled because she did not want to marry him and wanted to make herself seem less . . . attractive. "How did you find it helped you, generally?" He questioned, finding that the most polite way to satisfy his curiosity over how she had seemingly completely changed over night. That night. "I'm sorry to hear that Merlin hadn’t given you one. Although, I don’t think you really had needed it." Arthur gave a short chuckle at this. He never would have thought they'd be able to casually speak about such a potentially life changing moment in their lives . . . but it came with so much ease and comfort. "You should have seen me that morning. I did not sleep the night before and I was a terrible wreck the morning of."

He hoped she would not take offense to that; he only meant it in a way to say that he really had not wanted either of them to enter a union they had both been clearly opposed to. Her next words were indeed true: that they had both made up their minds. "I have to ask Elena, would you have said anything during the ceremony, had I not?" Would she have remained respectful to him and not publicly opposed the marriage? He knew this may be very inquisitive of him, verging on the line of nosy . . . but he often wondered what would have happened had he said nothing. "If you do not mind me asking such a thing," he quickly added. While the nature of their conversations suggested she would not get offended, he could not be too certain. She was a friend, and never wished to say or do anything to insult her -- other than walking out on their wedding, to be rather blunt. Clearly it was more complex than that, but it was good to at least get everything out in the open. This conversation between them, had been a much needed one. A long overdue one.

When she expressed her relief over it not having been Vivian . . . and then proceeded to talk about Vivian, Arthur felt a lot of different things. Ordinarily, he would have made a jokingly arrogant comment along the lines of Well can you blame her when Elena spoke of how she constantly talks about him. But Arthur did not. He could not. He could not mock the woman when he knew it was an enchantment that caused her to say such things; that she was still suffering from it. The poor woman. Arthur had been fortunate enough to be broken from the terrible love spell, but such fortune had not met her. And he hoped it did in the near future. Hell, he did not even think as to how she would react to his future marriage with Guinevère. As Olaf was an ally, news would reach him. The last Arthur saw Vivian he had been scared to say anything that would push her over the edge -- to possible suicide. He knew that he had nearly gotten himself killed when he'd been enchanted; he could have committed suicide as well had he found out in that state of mind that Vivian was to wed another man. The princess was in a fragile state, and he didn't want to do anything to worsen it.

But still, Arthur just gave a short chuckle over Elena's complaints. He couldn't blame her for being annoyed over such a thing. "The poor girl," Arthur said, meaning it . . . though most would take it as just a way of sympathizing for a love sick girl. "What does she say?" Arthur asked, that same joking cockiness seeping through. He only wanted to hear Elena pay the compliments -- as ridiculous as they were -- that Vivian often said, thanks to magic. When Arthur had been enchanted, he had apparently been spouting out poetry and saying, as well as doing things, he never would have imagined himself doing . . . not in his right mind anyway. That was when a thought hit him. "Wait, did you . . . you didn't tell her about, how we, almost . . . got married; did you?" Dear god, did she?! What had Vivian said or done when she found out? It would help Arthur anticipate her reaction when it was formally announced that he had found his queen, and his marriage with Guinevère ensued.

While Arthur awaited her reaction to hearing the name of his future wife, he watched her actions very carefully. Her eyes widened with surprise -- which was to be expected. But it was her words that he had not been expecting. While Elena did not seem like a judgmental person, he could never be too certain. Falling in love with someone of a different -- lower -- class was not a notion known to any. He knew that some may not accept it . . . but he was truthfully so very glad that Elena was not one of those people. Not only because Gwant was their strongest ally, but because she was his dear friend. Her shock came more from the fact that he'd been in love with her while he had proposed to Elena . . and that Guinevère had served the Princess of Gwant during the wedding preparations. When she threatened to punch him . . . kind of believed her. He took a slightly cautious step back -- just in case. "I know," he admitted in a low, and highly regretful voice. Wishing he did not have to make her endure that pain of helping another woman prepare for his wedding to another woman.

"She is the reason I could not marry you," he added, offering further explanation for what drove his final decision that day. "But she did not hate you," he assured, not wanting Elena to feel that Guinevère held any ill will towards her. "I could not mention it then," he said, answering her question . . . or well trying to. It was never easy for him to talk about his relationship with Guinevère to other people . . . even now, when others knew about it. "There had been a great deal at stake." The future of two kingdoms; the well being of their people . . . their own happiness. "I would be honored if you attended our wedding, whenever it may be," Arthur said, finding himself wanting Elena to be present more he would have expected. "I would not have it any other way," he added. "I would also like it if you were to meet her tonight. But this time, not as a servant of the castle." He knew he had technically met Guinevère, but he wanted the three of them to be able to talk in comfort . . . for once Guinevère became queen, he knew it would be overwhelming. And he wanted her to have support . . . something that he hoped she could find in someone as caring as Elena.

[[ No worries!! I totally understand!! Sometimes out of cannon threads are easier to reply to! Speaking of which, I am SO sorry about the monstrous length of this post!! I abruptly ended it cause it was just getting WAAAY too long!! haahah! Sorrry!!! If its too much to reply to, I don't mind cutting back! Just let me know! ]]

[bandach]

Ah, the flower incident, one would probably never forget that. Actually, Elena was far certain that might have been the worst part of their outing…or she could be mistaken. Somehow, other than that horse ride, Elena had managed to push everything out of her mind as if it had been a bad memory. Well, it wasn’t too terrible, just completely awkward and to think that their fathers thought that they would have made a good match. Arthur had seemed rather disinterested anyways, they both were and while she certain didn’t have anybody in Gawant (after all, who would have wanted her?) but it made her ponder a little about Arthur. After all, he was certainly quite the ladies man if she remembered correctly, certain not now. Both of them, both Arthur and Elena, had clearly matured, “Perhaps,” he stated now, clearly thinking, “Or we could just go for a ride and enjoy each other’s company,” the young king suggested now. The whole thing could not help but to make her laugh, he was clearly trying to avoid another loss and quite frankly, Elena could not blame him, “I suppose I could humor you to such a ride.”

Her statement did not end the conversation though. They were both thinking about it as well though, but surely Arthur more than her. After all, Elena had not been the one to lose. Rides were always such a pleasure for Elena, she felt free in the saddle, and it also put boys and men in their place. She hated how they thought that she had to ride side saddle or had to remotely remain at a walk. Where on earth was the fun in that? As he went on saying that he did not want to be the one to cause tears to form in her eyes, it took the young princess all of her will power to not double over laughing on the ground. None the less, a chuckle did escape her and she shook her head lightly, “Oh please, I don’t cry. If anything, it would simply will me to work harder the next time,” she replied now, “But of course, I do understand where you are currently coming from. You are just too chicken to take me on,” Elena challenged with a smile, “And it’s understandable, being the new king and all. Can’t have your reputation on the line,” but of course, just as he had been with her, Elena’s words had nothing more than a teasing tone to them.

“How did you find it helped you, generally?” Arthur enquired now about the potion that Merlin had given her. Well, she certain had not been expecting such a question. Her lips twisted slightly as if thinking of an answer herself, “You know, I’m not quite honestly sure. I just felt as if a great load had been lifted off my shoulders, or as if I had just gotten rid of something unpleasant inside of me, like bad food.” Honestly, she wasn’t even sure if that made sense at all. For all she knew, that explanation might cause Arthur Pendragon to think her mad, granted, it would hardly be anything new. Even with her new composure and looks, Elena still had that tomboy stigma left over from the past, and truth be told, it was still there in a way, the princess knew it would always be part of her, but just at home. After all, these shoes were killing her. At Arthur’s own explanation of how he felt the morning of, laughter could not help but to escape her, “Oh believe me, I could tell. You looked terrible on the aisle. Clearly, we both were not ready for such a thing at all.” Besides, even though it was quite an odd concept, love seemed like a better reason to marry than our of building strength. After all, that was what friendship was for.

And there was no offence between their words at all. Both of them knew how the other had felt about the whole thing even before this night, probably even before they had met each other that first time. No, hurting each other’s feelings was probably impossible for them to do, at least on this subject at hand, “I have to ask Elena, would you have said anything during the ceremony, had I not?” Blue eyes glanced over at him now, curious at such a question, “If you do not mind me asking such a thing,” he added on quickly as if he had just insulted her face. A smile rested on her lips, “Of course I would have. God, no, I wouldn’t want to be stuck in a marriage. It wouldn’t be fair to either of us. Besides, I could hardly imagine your father allowing me to walk around in my bare feet or in my ridding boots around this castle. My feet being comfortable is quite high on my list,” she said with a grin. It was good that they were talking about this, it was something that they did not really get to discuss with her going back to Gawant so soon after that ordeal. They needed this conversation and it was clearly doing them good.

Thankfully though, Arthur was not marrying Vivian. If that had happened, then Elena could honestly say that she would have been insulted. Vivian was too much to handle for the Gawant princess, there was just no way around it. Prior to meeting Arthur, she was a snob and spoiled brat, after Arthur, that was all what she talked about. It was a miracle that she had never found out about their proposed married. If that been the case, Elena might not have been standing here today right now, “The poor girl,” Arthur said with a chuckle now, “What does she say?” The question alone made Elena roll her eyes, “Oh my god, I don’t think I can even remember anything. There’s just so much, you’re the only topic to have with her and how you are her love, and there’s something about chicken thrown in there and destiny and it’s just, no Arthur. Just no,” Elena said. Something seemed to hit the king very quickly now though, “Wait, did you…you didn’t tell her about how we, almost…got married, did you?” Elena’s eyes could not help but to widen, “Dear god, no. What, do you think me mad Arthur Pendragon? She’d probably incite war against me and my kingdom.”

It was such an odd question to ask, but when he informed her of who his future queen would be, Elena could see why there would be such a question. Gwen was a wonderful person, even if she was a servant. These were times of change anyways, her father said so herself and with Arthur as king now, he could do what he want. Besides, considering how Gwen had handled Elena during her stay here, she would make a fine queen indeed. As Arthur explained everything now, it made much more sense about his reluctance to do anything with her, and she nodded at his words of explanation now. Her face lighted up at the idea that he was inviting her to the wedding, “Oh, most certainly count me in, Arthur, I’ll give you two a fine wedding present…whatever that may be,” oh dear, not there was something she needed to think about, “I would also like it if you were to meet her tonight. But this time, not as a servant of the castle.” Elena simply nodded her head, “Of course, I have to off her my congratulations after all.”

[[HOLY COW, this took forever. I didn't feel like color coding at the moment since, this is like the thrid time I'm trying to post this, but I'll do it later, I swear!]]