How Grand...

[Oseya]

How grand a place Camelot was. He'd heard stories about it from Samus, but this was far greater than Oseya could ever have imagined. As he walked through the city for the first time, he couldn't help but feel overwhelmed. So many people, rushing about everywhere, all with a purpose. This was so different to the quiet life of the village, where everyone was so peaceful, so dull, going around with no real purpose, no conviction. But here.. Here Oseya felt that he could finally make something of himself, get further in life, push on with his goals.

As he walked, no, strode through the market he felt free. For a moment he even let his left hand move away from the gilded blade that hung from his side, before quickly restoring it's place in a panic. He may have felt free, but he was still wary. Oseya had had too much trouble in his lifetime to not be wary of anything dangerous. The smell of a meat stall caught his attention. He laughed. Another difference he would have to live with, not having to catch his own meat all the time. Not to say he doesn't enjoy hunting, in fact he probably enjoys it too much.

As he passed the meat stall, contemplating how different his life will be once he manages to find a place to stay in Camelot, Oseya paused to see a man running towards him with pace and necessity. Before he could move out of the man's way, they collided with some force. Instantly Oseya noticed the man had taken something from him, and thus caught hold of the man by the arm, sword drawn at his neck. 'What on Earth do you think you are doing, sir? Who are you to attempt to take an item of mine?' The man squirmed, but Oseya held on to him firmly, aware of the eyes traced on them both. 'Speak, or this sword enters your neck, and I don't wish to get it soaked in blood'.

[Richard de Calys]

OOC - this won't make a lot of difference to you, but I'm placing it after my thread with Vaughn otherwise my brain will malfunction.


Richard was definitely losing his touch, no one ever noticed him, but then he did have quite a lot on his mind at the moment. He was currently distracted by having to find a morteous flower, whatever that was supposed to be, so really it wasn't unexpected that he should be caught by this...boy. He certainly had a firm grasp, irritatingly so.

A sword was being pressed against Richard's throat, which he personally thought was incredibly rude. They hadn't even been introduced. He was unfazed by the weapon, it was hardly the first time he had found himself in such a situation and was unlikely to be the last. One didn't build up a reputation such as Richard's without making a few enemies, and Richard de Calys had more than his fair share.

He stared at the boy, he certainly had some guts, but he was also quick to react which would no doubt one day be his downfall. Richard himself was far more calculating and allowed himself time to properly understand the situation before jumping head first. It was this cool and collected personality that allowed him to remain so calm. He could, after all, talk himself out of anything.

"Unhand me this instant." He demanded, aware that the man was creating creases. "This coat is new."

[Oseya]

Still holding the rogue by the arm, sword remaining at the man's neck, Oseya realised that he wasn't squirming as much as was anticipated from a small-time thief. This made it obvious - this wasn't the first time the man had been in this situation. As he stared at the man's eyes, he noticed him staring back. They were so cold, it was almost like he was drilling into Oseya's soul with them.

'Unhand me this instant. This coat is new.' The man's voice was strong and demanding, not at all what Oseya had expected from him. Aware of the many people staring at him, Oseya let go of the man's arm and stood back, keeping his sword pointed at him. 'All of you, you look on us and see a man wielding a blade at another. You assume the worst, perhaps I am a Highwayman, or simply just a violent man ready to kill whatever the risk. You assume wrong. This man attempted to steal from me, unsuccessfully I might add. Know his face, for if he is seen again you must be wary of his actions.' After his speech to the crowd, Oseya's heart pounded faster than after a hunt.

As the crowd began to disperse, he turned to his attempted assailant, who was still stood at the end of his blade, looking strangely relaxed for a man that had just been outed as a thief. 'You might want to look at what you just took from me, I think you'll find it pleasantly surprising' Stated Oseya with a smirk. He had dealt with thieves before, finding a small bag of rocks often provided an adequate decoy. 'Now, what's you're name? I do not wish to harm nor punish you, you clearly have not much else but the clothes you wear, and we all must make a living somehow.'

[Richard de Calys]

After being released from the man's grip Richard took a step back and folded his arms against his chest. This should be interesting. Having been released there was, of course, nothing from stopping him running away, but where would the fun be in that? No, watching this man make a fool out of himself would be far more entertaining.

Richard tilted his head, observing the man as he addressed the crowd. He certainly enjoyed a show, so who was Richard to take away from his enjoyment. Well, he was the duke of Cantia, that's who, but it was only fair to let the lad have his few minutes of attention before Richard put an end to this nonsense.

Only a few people stopped to listen, which was hardly surprising. The people of Camelot were far too busy with their own affairs to care about anyone elses, not even when that someone else was some sword wielding lunatic. It was just another day in Camelot city.

When the man's words were directed at Richard, he narrowed his eyes, trying to tell if the man was bluffing or not. Well, whether he was or not it made no matter. There were plenty more people to take advantage of if this man proved to be useless. "I think I shall take my chances." He said simply, not believing that the man had enough wits about him to protect himself from a thief such as Richard.

He found himself laughing as the man spoke again. How authorative he was! But then he was unaware that he was addressing royalty. Well, he would be quickly informed. Richard gave a flourished bow, one that had been perfect through countless introductions. "I am the duke of Cantia. Is it worth my while discovering your name?"

[Oseya]

'A Duke? You? I find that somewhat hard to believe.' There was no way this man stood before him was any form of nobility. Admittedly, his clothing was of a standard to which a Duke might wear, yet small failings were noticeable. Firstly, this 'Duke' had allowed the bottom his trousers to become encrusted with dirt, indicating primarily alot of walking on unpaved streets, but also that he did not have people cleaning his clothing for him. Secondly, he was only wearing one ring, and a small silver one at that, a Duke would have far more grand jewellery. A man of such high stature would also not be running around the streets of Camelot attempting to steal from citizens.

'My guess is you no longer actually hold such a title, yet you cling onto it like it is the very air you breathe, else why would you be attempting to steal from me? In reply to your question, my name is Oseya.' As he spoke Oseya extended a hand as a simple courtesy, but retracted it immediately. He did not wish to touch this hermit again. By now his sword rested once again at it's rightful place on Oseya's side, sheathed and ready to be used if necessary, left hand resting on the handle as always.

He looked at the man before him. At a distance, to the untrained eye, he could easily be mistaken for a Duke or other noble form. Well-made coat, shirt possibly linen. For a thief he sure has done well for himself. Probably been stealing for years, besides, its easy if you know who to go to. Not that Oseya would ever steal however, but the thought had crossed his mind. The life of a thief is most likely dangerous...

[Richard de Calys]

Whenever Richard told new acquaintances about his title he was almost met by surprise, and in some cases admiration. This man was just refusing to play along. Richard was his better and should be treated with respect. He glared at the man, since losing his fortune his title was the only thing he had to cling onto and he was therefore very protective of it. "I care not for what you believe, boy. I am your better and you shall treat me with the respect I deserve. Now kindly sheath your sword." It was highly unusual for Richard to become angry, or even a little annoyed, but this stranger had been insulting not only himself, but his title as well. "And what do you know about titles, boy? I doubt you hold one yourself."

Well, clearly he did not, otherwise he would show the correct respect of one noble to another. This "Oseya" was not even clever enough to show the respect of one man to his better. Well, Richard was more than capable of making sure that would not happen again. Like all royalty, he had friends in very high - and very low - places, friends that owed him.

Very briefly, it had occurred to Richard that perhaps this Oseya would be useful to him. Richard was a collector of people, a collector of promises and favours, but any thoughts of Oseya's usefulness had quickly been banished. The man was too hot, too easily offended and too quick to resort to violence. Richard preferred his allies to be thinkers, Oseya would only be a hinderance. "I should let you know, boy, as it is only fair, that I am a good friend of the king's. I could have you punished for your behaviour." Of course it was a lie, but Oseya would not know that, and even though he wasn't acquainted at all with the king he certainly was with others who would be only too happy to teach Oseya some manners.

[Oseya]

Boy? How dare this cretin call Oseya a boy. He lost his childhood when Gafgarrion left him and Samus to persue his own career. And then to state that he was the better of Oseya? He may have once been a Duke, but from where Oseya was stood he was nothing more than a petty thief. It was most probable that Oseya was more skilled in fights than this man, and clearly had outsmarted the man with his very simple bag of rocks decoy. This man asked for respect, yet he has earned none in Oseya's eyes.

'A thief of your stature, close friend of the King? You are clearly far more delusional than I at first anticipated. And as for my knowledge of titles? I've been told that my parents were of some noble decent. Though, I don't remember my parents, my real ones at least. But I have travelled across many Kingdoms, and am more than familiar with the Noble ways.' He paused for a moment, thinking of Samus, and what his life would be like if he had known his real parents. What he knew of them was so little, he didn't even know their names, just that they were of noble descent.

And now to put him in his place. 'A boy I am most certainly not either. I have lived for over 1 and twenty years now, and these last few have been spent purely in the company of myself. I am no longer a boy, and if you refer to me as one again, I may have to prove my worth.' That should get his attention. Some might say Oseya was looking for a fight. This was probably true for the most part. This man didn't particularly infuriate him, in fact there was something about him that made Oseya think of himself. Still, he guessed that a thief should be able to defend onesself, and hopefully put up some fight.

[Richard de Calys]

Richard was becomming less and less impressed the more he spoke to Oseya. But at least he understood him now. The boy clearly had a few issues, to say the least. Well Richard had no time for issues, especially the ones belonging to someone as irritating as Oseya. The boy wasn't even listening to him now. He sighed angrily and said firmly, "My uncle is the king of Cantia and you will show me the respect my status deserves." So what if he hadn't actually had any contact with his uncle since his father died, so what if he had been reduced to thievery and his dealings, Oseya was not aware of that, and would remain ignorant. It was, after all, hardly any of his business. All the boy needed to know was that he was not treating Richard as he should.

Richard laughed at Oseya's words. He supposed his acquaintance was trying to be impressive. It wasn't working. "Gosh, one and twenty years, how very impressive of you. Would you like a reward? Some gold coins, perhaps? And how exactly will you "prove your worth"?" He cocked his head to one side. "Are you threatening me, in front of all these witnesses?" He spread his hands apart, gesturing to the large crowd, busying themselves in the street. "Come now, boy, surely you can do something better."

[Oseya]

'Don't worry your little head, I'm not going to kill you, that would be far too easy. I'd much rather watch you-' Oseya trailed off as someone caught his eye from the crowd. Jet-black hair, rose-crested gauntlets and a black sword with two blades side by side. Gafgarrion? Could it be? Oseya blinked, and lost sight of him. It couldn't have been him, could it? 'Squirm.' Oseya said after becoming aware that he hadn't actually finished his sentence. He hung his head in thought. What if it was Gafgarrion? What would he do then? Should he try and find him? but then if it wasn't him it would have been pointless.

He was once again aware of the man staring at him. 'Sorry, but who did you say you were the nephew of? The King of Cantium, Canta? You say you are noble, yet you speak with the toungue of a commoner. You clearly lead an unfortunate life. Your uncle cannot be that great a king, else I'm sure he would take you in.'

This man before him was troubled, maybe moreso than Oseya, this is what he saw of himself in the man, even if the man irritated him. Maybe he could attempt an alliance. A thief always has good connections, which he would no doubt need within Camelot. He still had nowhere to stay, and maybe this man knew of Gafgarrion or his whereabouts.

[Richard de Calys]

Oseya's words were more than entertaining. Kill him? He would love to see the man try. Richard had, as all boys of his standing, been brought up with the knowledge of fighting. His father would have not allowed anything else, and so since the age of five Richard had been taught how to handle himself. Oseya's threat was laughable at best, still, had to give the boy at least some admiration for his courage, but only some.

Richard was not one for squirming, although it happened, but certainly not in these circumstances and certainly not in front of someone he could better with his hands tied behind his back.

He watched Oseya for a few months, thumb and index finger stroking his chin as he considered the boy in front of him. So many issues...not that Richard cared that much, it was more amusing than anything else. "Better men than you have tried to make me "squirm" and so far none have succeeded." Men were easy, men were simple, it was the women he had to be wary of.

"Cantia." Richard replied with a forced smile. It may be a small kingdom clinging onto Albion with all its might, but it was a proud one. "My uncle is the king of Cantia. And as to my "unfortunate life" I find it is none of your business." Oseya had managed to touch a nerve, Richard did not like to speak of his life before poverty, and certainly not about his uncle. This was his life now, there was no point dwelling on the past.

[Oseya]

'Oh, did I touch a nerve there? Sorry.' Oseya wasn't sorry, but he was hardly going to exploit this, that would provoke the man. Oseya was warming to him, though through mere necessity. 'I intend not to insult you, merely stating a fact, or at least and opinion.' Now, do I try and ask for aid? Oseya pondered, the idea was filled with flaws. He could be rejected completely. The man had no reason to help him. Unless...

'I have a proposition for you, if of course you require it. I am in need of a place to stay,' And someone to help find Gafgarrion, but he didn't need to know that just yet. 'And I'm willing to pay, I have enough to hold a small place to settle. However, I as yet have no-where to go. You seem to be a man of connections, and all I ask is of your aid in finding such a place.' This was never going to work, thought Oseya, he has no reason to help me. 'In return, I will give you payment, and my services as a mercenary, as I'm sure you have a constant desire to ever expand your connection within the city.'

Will it be enough? Oseya was unsure, but from what he knew, it was apparent the man liked connections, being a thief. Besides, what man wouldn't like the comfort of having a mercenary at your beck and call? Hopefully, not this 'Duke'...

[Richard de Calys]

Richard did not much care for Oseya, although his threats were certainly proving to be entertaining. But he was not one to let his opions of people outweight their usefulness. If Oseya was indeed going to be an asset then Richard was more than capable of overlooking his personality.

He took a few moments to consider the man's proposal fully. Of cours he would be able to find this man lodging, that was perfectly easy to accomplish. No, the thing he couldn't quite make up his mind about was whether he should or not. The money was not an issue, Richard had more than enough customers, and his own slight of hand, which gave him the ability to consider turning Oseya's offer down now.

It was the principle that was bothering him. While he would normally overlook the personality or the person's usefulness, that was not the case here. Was Oseya actually that useful to him? He was quick with a sword, of that Richard was certain, but would he prove himself to be a liability? Richard couldn't be sure.

He sighed. He had no idea why, but he found himself inclined to take the young man up. "Very well. I shall find you lodgings and you shall be my mercenary. As for this payment you speak of," he smiled, "how much coin do you have?"

[Oseya]

He actually took up Oseya's offer. To be honest, Oseya was rather shocked. He hadn't thought that this man would actually accept his proposal. But now he was asking about the payment offered. 'Coin? Coin is not my only payment, but if that is what you require then how much do you want?' Oz didn't really want this Duke knowing just how much money he had, but he was happy to let him know whatever he asked he could cover it. Samus had left a rather large amount to him, not all in coin. The majority of which lay here, within the walls of Camelot.

Stood here, in the street, with everyone rushing past them, something about this man stood out to Oseya. It was almost as though he couldn't not stare at this man. He seemed so rough, so, dirty, almost ruined. And yet something about him drew Oz to him in a way he hadn't felt in some time. The last time he felt this was in Mercia. So long ago it seems. Never had he felt this way towards another man, it was unheard of. It was almost, wrong.

But that didn't matter, this man was going to give him a lodging, and Oseya would work for him. He would pay the man, and get on with whatever he requires. Oseya was here to live for as long as he could, he'd only been in Camelot a matter of hours, and already he liked the city. Samus lived here, and it's possible his parents did too, from what little he had learnt from Samus about them. Maybe someone here would know of them, and if Gafgarrion can be found, maybe he has found something out in his travels.

[Richard de Calys]

Richard just smiled at the boy. He was certainly eager - but then who wouldn't be? It was a well-known fact that Richard de Calys was the best in the business, for the most part he was the only in the business, but that didn't stop him taking pride in his work. His customers came to him out of necessity, but they returned because he more than proved himself. He regarded Oseya for a moment, running a hand across his chin and jaw line. Morally speaking, he shouldn't be asking for any coin for him. Richard was gaining muscle and money out of this deal, whereas Oseya was only gaining lodgings - something which he could probably acquire on his own. Then again, if his sword waving was a particular habit, maybe not. "I shall think about it." He said suddenly, and perhaps a little too loudly. First he would see how much Oseya had to spare - see, he wasn't totally without empathy or morals.

Now that that matter had been dealt with he clapped his hands together and brought his feet together with a small, barely noticeable jump. He'd been standing still for too long - his legs ached for some excercise, and his cloak could do with a good swish. "Now then, dear boy," he began with a rather authorative tone. It was one that told all around that Richard was in charge, and it would do well for Oseya to remember that. Whilst Richard might not be the most well-built of men he was quick-footed and rather practiced with a sword, and then there were all those contacts of his... But that was for another time. Oseya seemed honest enough - if a little peculiar. Richard frowned, the young lamb had a curious expression on his face. One that Richard himself was familiar with. Quickly composing himself he decided not to say anything, but to store it away in his memory. "We need to find you some lodgings, after all, that was part of the deal. Do you have anywhere in mind?"

[Oseya]

'This is my first time in Camelot, I am not aware of any particularly good nor bad areas of the city. I would be satisfied with any lodging, providing I had access to necessities.' He was honest, Oseya had no idea of what to expect in the city in terms of its lodgings. This man seemed to know his way around, surely he would know of somewhere suitable. Oseya just wanted a place where he could stay and keep his possessions, which he had to go and collect, once a suitable place had been found. Admittedly, he didn't have much, but his collection of items had grown considerably since his departure from Esaria all those years ago. On his travels he had managed to acquire a good stock, and kept them stored in various places he found to be suitable, as he had no permanent home. Now, however, Oseya had finally decided to stay in one place, to move on with his life of roaming the lands.

What's more, this man was considering giving him a job of sorts. Admittedly it wasn't Oseya's first thought at what a job in the city would be like, but he saw an opportunity and took it. Working for this man was certainly a prospect that could turn out for the better. And, as previously thought, this man likely has connections. This man could help him find out about his true lineage, and also find out about Gafgarrion, if he was indeed within Camelot.

They began to walk, but as he took a step, Oseya felt a shot through his head. 'Here we go again' he thought. He didn't stop, the vision only lasted a second. Nothing even remotely harmful, just a few sights he'd seen on his way into the city, nothing special. These visions were often nothing more than a nuisance to him now. Maybe that's what happened when he saw Gafgarrion, maybe a vision had merged with reality, it had happened before. Not that it mattered, they weren't an issue, all Oseya wanted to do was find somewhere to stay.

[Richard de Calys]

Well. That was interesting. And useful. It was safe to say Richard was not won over by Oseya’s response. He sighed and rubbed the bridge of his nose with his thumb and forefinger. He wasn’t surprised it was the lad’s first time in Camelot. Locals didn’t usually get their swords out every time there was a little pick-pocketing going on.

Did he do everything for this man? Clearly he did. Whenever Richard found himself in a new place, the first thing he did was to find out the different areas, where he could find what, and who the people were. He had assumed that was just common sense, obviously not. This Oseya fellow didn’t actually appear to have any kind of plan in place. Who went off on their own without a proper plan in place? What sort of idiot was he? Once again it was up to Richard to save the day. Still, he was making money out of the boy and that was some comfort to him.

“Alright.” He began and started walking forwards, one arm around Oseya’s shoulder and directing him through the street. They had to keep swerving as people were refusing to get out of his way which was very rude and very unappreciated. “I’ll take you to a favourite place of mine. They’ll have what you and if they don’t...” he grinned, “Well, that’s why you have me.”