Conversations With A Cave Fiend

[Romily de Braose]

Romily had decided that what she needed was a good walk. Away from the stifling energies of the Camelot marketplace and just a peaceful day on her own.
She’d made her way along the pathways through the forest. Always wary of travelling in them now – given the Forest of Balor experience, she’d never really thought of forests the same way now. She could hear water running, as though there was a stream or river nearby. At least she’d have water to drink, should she ever run out.

The day itself was warm and sunny – but it had stayed that way since her arrival into the city. Back where the Rams Head was situated, Romily couldn’t count the number of days that it had rained.
She didn’t miss the Inn or serving anyone in the slightest. The break away was doing her good. She had more colour in her cheeks than before and found that she spent her days enjoying doing whatever she chose to – with No Eldon or Agnes to order her around. No chores. Nothing.

Romily thought that she’d like to stay in Camelot forever, but knew that this was out of the question. For a start Gwaine was there and since their heated conversation, they’d not seen one another. However Romily had befriended a young woman called Gwen, who seemed to know a great deal more of love and it’s consequences and subsequently, the relationship between Romily and Gwaine.

She found a quiet clearing by the river and settled herself down in the shade. Time to collect herself and her thoughts

Tagged: Arthur Pendragon
Timeline: After the Coronation
Setting: In the forest somewhere (always the forests!)
Muse Song: The Tudors Soundtrack – Jane Seymour’s Theme [/color]

[Arthur Pendragon]

Arthur knew it that his tasks as king would keep him fairly busy . . . but he had not expected it to be as chaotic as it was. While he obviously did not regret his position -- knowing that it had to come one day and grateful that that day did not come with the loss of his father -- he was tired. Worn out from all the duties required of him. He had a very strong support system surrounding him and knew he would not have gotten this far without such people. Guinevère. Merlin. The knights . . . so many were there to aid him, but ultimately, he could not burden them with what he had been trained from birth to do: rule a kingdom. Arthur wished Morgana could be here with them too, but of course . . . did not wish her presence here. She had died in spirit, for she had become an entirely different woman. Though, that did not ease the pain of losing her. Of losing a sister. Arthur just needed a break from . . . everything. He told Merlin to tell everyone that he went out for a ride.

He was dressed in his chainmail, noy having time to dress out of it, and had his vibrant red cape attached to him. He had only a sword at his side for a weapon and a small dagger that he constantly kept in the concealment of his boot. He left his crown in his chambers, making him look like a typical knight rather than the ruler of this entire kingdom. All he wanted was a few hours to himself. He wasn't even sure where he would go. Obviously not far, but far enough to not be immediately spotted before he had more matters to attend to. He rode his horse well into the forest before dismounting and tying it to a tree. And he just walked. And walked. And walked. Having no idea where his feet would lead him for his mind was far too preoccupied to pay attention to where he was going. He wasn't being very inconspicuous either for the weight of his chainmail was making his steps heavier, not even bothering to be silent on this day. When he reached a small clearing he just walked right into it, and only froze when he saw a woman there.

He did not draw his sword -- seeing her as no threat -- but he stopped walking abruptly, just staring at her. There was something familiar about her. He felt as if he knew her from somewhere . . . that they had met ------ Oh. Dear. God. It was . . . her! That woman! What was her name? Raylene? Molly? Romily! YES! That was it! Romily! He could never actually forget the name of someone who had saved his life. There was nothing alarming about her presence . . . no. There was. There was because it was a strange, very ironic coincidence that he had met her years ago, and now her she was . . . in front of him, in a clearing. It was as fate had led him here, telling them that they needed to cross paths again. But why . . . Arthur had no idea. He'd think he would be hallucinating but that would be far too random for him to be seeing images of her, of all people. Then again, maybe he should just be sure. "Romily?!" He questioned, unable to take another step forward as he was in far too great a state of shock to move right now.

[Romily de Braose]

She hadn’t heard anyone approaching but almost jumped as she heard her name. "Romily?!"

Romily looked up and over in the direction of where she’d heard the voice.

Oh… My… God…

It was him! Arnold? Archie? Arthur! That was it! The man that she’d stripped in a cave with and had on top of her for all the wrong reasons! Oh my goodness! What was he doing…wait! He told her he was from Camelot! She remembered! Ok so it had been a good couple of years or so, but she knew his face.
He had changed slightly. Facial wise anyway. Not only did he look older but he also looked as though there was some kind of weight on his shoulders.

Romily studied him a little more. He was a knight? He’d told her that he was a servant when they’d last met. Clearly she’d had enough of knights so obviously someone upstairs wasn’t going to leave the subject be for sometime. That would mean he would know Gwaine…great.

She got to her feet quickly; still in disbelief that Arthur was actually here. She almost half laughed. “We clearly need to stop meeting like this!” she referred to the forest, knowing full well that they’d met in one last time. Thankfully she hadn’t seen any caves around.

She was surprised that he actually remembered her name. Making her way over to where he was she smiled. “What are you doing here?!” she asked and smiled warmly.
“It’s good to see you again – I see that you’ve gone from servant to Knight, a very big achievement”. With a knowing look she leant back against the tree trunk behind her. “Although I must admit that you are the last person that I expected to see!”

[Arthur Pendragon]

Apparently, the shock was mutual. Which was . . . well, Arthur wasn't sure what it was. He was just confused right now. Confused as to how they managed to keep meeting like this. How he had managed to find her again. Yes. Fate certainly was playing with them; it could not just be mere coincidence. After all, didn't they say that everything happens for a reason? He was grateful when she began to break the silence created by the shock of their reunion . . . furthermore, starting it with a joke. Sort of a joke. It did hold some truth to it. "We clearly need to stop meeting like this!" Yes. Yes they did. A slow, small yet friendly smile began to appear on his lips. "You aren't being chased again, are you?" He asked, only half kidding. Judging from her calm demeanor though, he doubted it. The last time she had collided into him, she had been distressed and out of breath. Now, she seemed serene and . . . dressed far differently than before.

She had told him that she was a noble, and now, she looked the part more so than before with her elegant yet not overly extravagant garment. He got a better look at it as she rose to her feet and began to approach him. He finally managed to break out of the unexpected -- yet pleasant -- surprise and took a few steps towards her. "What are you doing here?!" A good question . . . though how did he answer it? Say that he was here because he was the sovereign of this kingdom? "I could ask the same to you, for you are further than your home than I," he said in a bit of a teasing matter, with a smile. It was strange . . . despite the shock, he felt that instant comfort in her company, able to speak to her with great ease. It was probably because they had surpassed all the awkwardness that two strangers could have possibly encountered with one another. That was when she began to speak of his . . . promotion. His supposed promotion anyway. What had he told her? That he worked for the king? Ah yes.

He had left out the very specific detail of his true title and position. Ironically, he had indeed been 'promoted' since he'd last met her. But not from servant to knight: from prince to king. A far greater promotion that he had implied during their last meeting. He wasn't sure what to say. Should he tell her? Well she would find out soon enough, especially if she was staying here long term. Though, perhaps he should find out that part before he made his grand revelation. And he used her last remark to ease into this part of their conversation. "Although I must admit that you are the last person that I expected to see!" His smile grew a bit as he let out a short chuckle at this meeting between them, though under far less intense circumstances . . . hopefully. "As are you," he agreed. "Though it seems I should not be too surprised, for all you did was take my advice and come visit Camelot," he added, hoping to search for more of an answer as to why she was here . . . if there was a specific reason.

[Romily de Braose]

"You aren't being chased again, are you?" he managed to joke.

They seemed perfectly at ease with one another’s company, which was certainly a dramatic change from last time. She was thankful that they were both not becoming awkward and were joking about the events.

“Just by my demons” she replied sincerely. Demons being the thoughts of Gwaine for one. He would even haunt her dreams at night. Sleep was hard to come by since their conversation. She wasn’t about to relay everything to Arthur but should he ask then she’d gladly tell him the small to the point details. “Nothing too dramatic”.

What was she doing here? Well yes there was that question as well. “I know, although I feel more at home here than I would have ever done at the inn or back In Carmelide” she admitted. “As it happens im visiting my friend here – so I guess I’ve fulfilled my promise of visiting”. Her eyes roamed over the landscapes, “It is most beautiful – a real change from my normal hectic life, I almost feel as though the life that was drained from me is returning”.

She was grateful for the company, even if she’d set out not wanting any. "Though it seems I should not be too surprised, for all you did was take my advice and come visit Camelot,"

Romily kept herself leant up against the trunk. “I shall not be staying for long – it is unfortune, but a turn of events has had me trying to make some difficult decisions over the last few days” she admitted. “I came to Camelot and within hours I thought I’d be staying forever – but I doubt that it should happen no matter how much I have fallen in love with it” she explained, plucking a flower from the ground and toying with the petals.

She looked back up at him and smiled, “You look well Arthur – although it’s not surprising considering we were on the verge of death the last time we met…no…you look very well indeed – happy”. She added onto the end. No matter how much of a weight she could see, he looked content enough.

[Arthur Pendragon]

"Just by my demons. Nothing too dramatic." That certainly sounded dramatic and it peaked Arthur's curiosity as well as concern. He knew it was not his place to pry in her personal affairs, but he wondered if there was any way he could help. It was strange . . . this was only the second time they had met, but he could easily call her friend. He knew that sometimes, two people grew close together because of the experience, rather than the passage of time. She had saved his life, so that created and instant trust and immense gratitude. Even though they had only spent a matter of days rather than years together . . . they had talked quite a bit, speaking of things that two strangers did not often openly discuss, which allowed them to build on that bond. As all these thoughts entered his mind, he decided to inquire into what she was referring to. After all, it seemed to be causing her distress and he did not wish to see her in such a way. "What sort of demons?" He asked, wondering if she would tell him; or if she would not feel so comfortable in doing so.

Arthur smiled upon hearing her say that she felt more at home here. It filled him with that pride over his kingdom, that others could find comfort, peace and ease in here. And why not. It was indeed a great kingdom, filled with beautiful land and incredible civilians. It had been through its fair share of chaos -- as every kingdom does -- but it was Arthur's source of extreme pride. "I am glad to hear that," he told her, in a strongly sincere voice. "As it happens I'm visiting my friend here – so I guess I’ve fulfilled my promise of visiting." Arthur's smile faded but not in an angry way . . . he was just about to give her additional teasing. "I'm not sure if I should feel offended that this friend clearly was not me," he said in mock offense. Had she not been a friend, then he would not have so readily teased her over such a thing. He could not maintain this farce very long though for a smile reappeared when she spoke of how beautiful it was here, and how much of a change everything was.

"Didn't I tell you, that Camelot was certainly worth visiting," he said, still smiling, still so glad she could find solace here. "Where are you staying?" He asked, wondering if she was actually in the city itself for it was the closet place on foot . . . but she could easily have been staying in another village. "Hang on a moment, I thought you had said you didn't know anyone here?" He suddenly remembered her having said something along these lines when he met her. So, who was she visiting? Unless she had made an acquaintance from here in the past . . . year or so. Yes. That must have been it. At least this way, he could perhaps find out who it was she knew, or at least in what area she was residing in. As king, previously prince, he was obviously familiar with all areas of the kingdom. His curiosity as to who she was visiting here increased, when she said that she was not staying long due to an unfortunate turn of events.

Again, curious concern. What had such a strong impact that she had come here, planning to live here, and then suddenly . . . decided to leave as soon as possible. It must have been something great. Something . . . worrisome. "Would it be too inquisitive of me to ask what happened that had made you feel this way?" He wanted to know -- maybe even help her. What if someone had mistreated her? That, he could certainly take care of. As king, he had the ability to do a lot of things, and if someone had wronged her in some way, he would not let such a thing so easily pass. But again, it truly depended on whether she was willing to tell him or not. His desire to want to help her grew strongly when she added that he looked well, and had her words not caused him such worry, then perhaps he would have even laughed at her mention of his state during their last meeting.

"I am," he admitted, able to fully say this. His happiness was due to a lot of things, one of the major ones being his relationship with Guinevère and how it did not have to be so gravely hidden. It was true that sadness still filled a portion of his heart, but he was still happy. Happy to be with the friends and family he now had. "I wish it was not so one sided." He wished she too was happy. "While you too look well, it is clear that something burdens you." Something that he hoped he could help with. He took a few steps closer to where she was leaned against the tree. "And if you would permit me to, I would much like to help you carry this burden, or at least lift it from you." And by that, he needed to know what happened.

[Romily de Braose]

"What sort of demons?" There were a million and one things that she could go into when explaining this term. Gwaine being the main one of them.
Romily smiled weakly. “Really, they are nothing too troubling” she told him, “and im pretty sure that you wouldn’t want to hear me drone on about a man for hours on end – so I’ll spare you the details and say that im perfectly fine” she grinned.

She remembered how both she and Arthur had opened up to one another about quite personal things, upon their first meeting. Subjects such as love, mothers, fathers and weight issues (on Arthur’s account anyway) were not things that two strangers would usually discuss – but with the oair of them spending quite some time together, they’d found that conversation deepened within these areas – even if they’d both felt awkward at first.
Now it seemed at those conversation came with ease. As though the bond they’d made the first time had never been broken nor forgotten about. In Romily’s eyes it was more of something that siblings would share – but she couldn’t yet call Arthur that as she hardly knew him that well enough to deem him a brother – as much as she would have liked to.

"I'm not sure if I should feel offended that this friend clearly was not me,"

She gave him a pitiful look, knowing that he was only joking. “Im sorry – I would’ve visited sooner if it had meant us keeping in contact, but my landlord had me scrubbing floors and cooking for the last couple of years, so I suppose that stood in my way”. She had Yassia here and now Arthur and of course there was Gwen, so her list of friends was growing. “Im staying at The Rising Sun” she told him.

"Hang on a moment, I thought you had said you didn't know anyone here?"

“There was a girl – Yassia, she stayed at my inn one evening and we just kind of started talking. She’s become quite a good friend to me – I write to her often and it’s only just recently that I have found time to get away and come and see her. She has family here” Romily explained, “So ive made another friend since we last spoke” she laughed. Well…2 friends as Gwen was included.

On her mention of deciding to leave, Arthur’s expression turned to one of concern. “Of course not” she replied, “As I mentioned earlier, it’s all over a man and feelings” she laughed.
“I remember you told me that love tends to come when you least expect it – and I thought that it did…but it seems that I was mistaken” she admitted. Gwaine. Gwaine who she thought she’d be spending the rest of her life with. Gwaine who had declared his love for her and had treated her so well. Sir Gwaine – the one who had broken her heart when he’d failed to mention his true identity. And then there was her conscience – the conscience that had failed to mention to him that she too was a lady of nobility. “So it’s nothing personal against Camelot” Romily finally finished off.

At least Arthur was happy. “Still got that muscle then” she playfully slapped his chest, “more so than ever now I expect” her brows raised as she looked him up and down at his current attire. "While you too look well, it is clear that something burdens you. And if you would permit me to, I would much like to help you carry this burden, or at least lift it from you."
Romily could only shrug this off. “Demons” she replied again. “As much as I’d love you for that – this is a wound that you shall not be able to fix for me this time.”

[Arthur Pendragon]

So, it was about a man. While it did not explain everything, it was certainly a start as to what it was that was affecting her so. It seemed that a great deal had happened since they last met. Which was entirely understandable . . . it had been two years after all. "It is enough to be troubling you," he began to say. While he did not want to pry, he didn't want her reason for her not telling him to be to 'spare' him the details. "You could say that you are fine, but that is a lie. I would prefer you be honest, and truly tell me what it is that this man has done," he said, still not letting it go. Of course, if she grew irritated by his insistence to tell him, then he would just as easily drop the subject, even if he would continue to remain curious, and even worried. She had found someone, and something had happened. that was enough to raise his worry as to what exactly had happened. Hopefully nothing too . . . extreme. But that hope may not be helped for she was clearly effected by whatever it was that had happened between her and this mystery man.

He gave a bit of a smile when she had explained what prevented her from coming sooner. "At least you have escaped that life for now," he told her. From the way she described it -- and the way she had previously described her innkeeper last they met -- made her job seem rather dreadful. But as she had said then, it kept her busy and she much preferred that life as oppose to the one she had at her home, in her estate. When she continued to answer his questions, first saying that she was staying at the Rising Sun, and then who she knew here . . . Yassia. That name was all too familiar to Arthur. He had met her a few years ago, and then again when he saw her randomly wandering around the castle one night. It seemed to be such a small world, filled with so many connections. "I know her," Arthur said, finding it quiet a coincidence that of all people from Camelot Romily had met, Yassia had been one of them -- and she had not even been in the kingdom at the time. "I am glad you have found a friend here," he said, knowing that Yassia was a kind woman. "Well, another friend," he added, referring to himself as being one of them.

He found his curiosity continuing to heighten as she said once more that it was a man, and that his words from their last conversation had stuck in her mind . . . but had not led to quite the same outcome that Arthur had implied back then. "And how was it that you were mistaken?" He asked, knowing he was treading that same ground that she may not feel comfortable being questioned about . . . but he had to at least try. It was better than just saying something nonchalant like 'sometimes its not meant to be' or 'it can't always work out'. While Arthur was not naive enough to believe that everyone had a happy ending . . . he knew first hand what it was like to fight for something so much, and find it all worth it in the end. After all, it was not as if his and Guinevère's relationship had come easy. And it only made him value it all the more . . . because both of them had fought hard for the chance to be together. "Well if this man is in Camelot, then it may become personal," Arthur said, as more of a joke than anything, trying to lighten the mood slightly, but her next comments did an even more effective job.

He gave that same boastful grin he'd once given her before when she spoke of his muscle. "And you're still as perceptive as you were then," he said smirking. "For you can detect it, even under this chainmail," he commented, knowing that the armor just added weight to a person. She was looking him over, probably wondering about his current uniform, but also knowing that this was not the time to tell her he was king. He did not want to divert the conversation from what was really bothering her as that was seemingly more important right now, rather than commenting on his true status. "I may not be able to fix it for you, but consider me a friend, willing to offer comfort and a listening ear." Sometimes, it was better to talk about things. Arthur had never been one to do that . . . but after developing his relationship with Guinevère, found his ability to do so come at more ease. With her mostly, rather than anyone else. Oh and of course occasionally Merlin. For Arthur was not quick to forget his little heart to heart conversations that he had with him.

[Romily de Braose]

She could stand there for hours and rant about her troubles with men, but Romily knew that she’d confided in enough intimate details with him the last time that they had met – even though he’d most likely forgotten them she’d rather not burden him with stupid thoughts.
No. It was now time to take a stand and move on. Should Gwaine ever need her he knew where she was. She smiled at Arthur’s words. He sounded so protective of her and yet they were not of blood. “Oh Arthur” she chuckled slightly, “I am fine – really. Time is a great healer, and I know that’s what I will need”. She paused. “That and a friend”.

The mention of Eldon and Agnes made Romily shiver slightly. She was hardly going to go back now. She’d recently asked the innkeeper of The Rising Sun if he needed any help of an evening. He’d been taken back to say the least but had allowed her the opportunity to prove herself. So perhaps she had more of a reason to stay in Camelot now. Tearing herself up between home and a new life – again – was obviously starting to show. And Arthur was no fool. “I know, im glad of it – and im starting to feel as though maybe there is a new life for me here now”.

“Well if this man is in Camelot, then it may become personal," back to Gwaine again.

“He is” Romily replied, “but that is all I will say.” she reached out and put a comforting hand on his shoulder. “Thank you for your concern, should anyone overhear us now they’d think of a brother protecting a sister”. She smiled, “im grateful”.

On the mention of his muscles he looked rather pleased with himself. “And you're still as perceptive as you were then," Romily smiled down at the ground. “That is one thing I have not changed in – perception”. Looking back to Arthur she pushed herself off of the tree trunk and swayed along between the trees. “I have changed though, but I cannot decide whether it’s for the better or worse” she admitted. That was the Gwaine effect she’d felt coming on again. Time to wipe the slate clean and start again. "I may not be able to fix it for you, but consider me a friend, willing to offer comfort and a listening ear."

Romily turned back to Arthur, a little surprised that he was actually willing to hear what she had to say. She couldnt help but give another small laugh. “You wouldn't do that for me” Why should he? Yes they’d spoke of many things before, but on a subject such as this? Romily was unsure as to how he’d react or what he’d say.
Her hands toyed with the laces on her dress, “I must warn you that it would be an entire waste of such a nice day, but anyway enough of me – what about you?” she asked determined to steer away a little from it all, “There is obviously someone who has put that smile on your face” She teased.

Yay for perception.

[Arthur Pendragon]

He didn't believe she was fine, but he also knew that he could ask only so many times before he irritated her. He did not often open up about certain things, and he could not force someone to do the same . . . for it was not respectful. He could only hope that should she ever feel the need to talk to someone, that she would find a friend in him, and trust him enough to come to him for the company. When she commented about time being a great healer, and a friend, he gave a faint smile. "Well you most certainly have the latter." And he wanted no doubts about that. "Should you ever need one, I hope that you can find yourself in my company." Would this change if . . . when she found out he was king? Would she feel less inclined to go to him casually? Arthur knew that this title held a lot of formality, and hoped that it would not drastically alter the nature of their friendship . . . one they had developed quickly upon first meeting, and one that had lasted despite the years of distance between them.

"I know, I'm glad of it – and I'm starting to feel as though maybe there is a new life for me here now." He hoped she decided to remain here, for her previous job sounded dreadful considering what he heard of the man who ran it. "I hope you do," he stated. "If you need help, in anything here, finding a place to call home or a field of work, then let me know. And I will assist you to the best of my ability." The best of anyone's ability really. While he doubted she would accept monetary aid for him, his offer was more in terms of the support one needed when settling in a new city. And hopefully whoever this man was, has not taken that by tainting Camelot for her. When she spoke conclusively of the subject, putting a hand on his shoulder, he put his hand on top of hers, returning the gesture of comfort. He couldn't help but smile when she spoke of what it would sound like to a passerby. For he could indeed see the dynamic between them to shift in this direction. At the very least she was a friend; at the very most a dear sister.

"Let them think as such then," he told her. There were few in his life he would go as far as to call sister, so for now, would stick with 'dear friend'. Especially after the last woman he had called sister -- who actually ironically turned out to be this by blood -- had tried to kill him and those he cared about. He obviously did not think Romily would do the same, but the thought of having trusted her so much only to have her do what she did . . . always left a constant ache in his heart. But he would not allow himself to wallow in these depths of despair . . . especially when he was focusing on her and her troubles, though they still remained unspoken and Arthur would respect this. When she spoke about change, Arthur knew that this could be both a good and bad thing, and that one would just have to trust what their heart guided them to . . . as he had done. And it worked out in terms of his relationship with Guinevère. But again, he was avoiding prying as she was not ready to speak of this, and it was entirely understandable. "You wouldn't do that for me." These words immediately broke him out of silence.

"I would," he assured, disagreeing with her assumption. "But we will talk about things to raise your spirits. But please, if your sole reason for not telling me is because you think I do not want to hear, then you are mistaken." And he would leave it at that . . . for now. Her question and observation about there having been someone to have put a smile on his face allowed for a new subject. One that he hoped would distract her from whatever plagued her thoughts and caused her pain. "Is it that obvious?" He asked with a bit joking innocence. He had asked Morgana that once, and when Merlin had found out . . . both their words had been exactly the same: a blind man could see it. And Arthur had thought he'd been hiding his feelings so well. It just shows how well both Merlin -- and Morgana -- know him. "Would you like to go for a walk through the woods? Perhaps towards the countryside for it is a peaceful place." Areas that possessed such serenity, that it could not help but make one feel calm and relaxed. And it was not too far from here . . . if one knew the proper route to take.

[Romily de Braose]

"Should you ever need one, I hope that you can find yourself in my company."
Romily smiled at this, watching Arthur from where she was still leant up against the tree. There was something different about him, something she couldn’t quite figure out. It was almost as though the answer should be screaming out at her, when really she couldn’t see anything at all. “You shouldn’t have to hope” she grinned, “you should know that I would – and in return I hope that you would do the same”.

He wanted to help her? Well wasn’t he just full of surprises. “Thank you” she nodded, “Im sure that if I ever need a tour guide or career advise then I know who to go to, but for the time being I shall be stuck behind the bar of The Rising Sun”. She said this almost bitterly. Had she still properly called herself a noble then it would have been the whole arranged betrothal and children path. As a barmaid however, it seemed she had no other skills at all.
She couldn’t help but smile at Arthur’s comment about what others thought of them. It was a funny old feeling that there should be a reason to call him a brother. She’d rather have him for a brother than Agnes for a sister, and that was defiantly saying something.

“Just a bit” Romily replied when Arthur asked if the happiness was obvious, “you have a different look about you than the one you had when I met you – happy…” she admitted. Arthur didn’t have any glimmer in his eyes a few years ago, he had that now and she’d seen that look before. “Im glad – at least one of us hasn’t messed up in that field…you must tell me more about her”.

On the subject of a walk, Romily jumped at the chance. “I couldn’t think of anything better – besides, I think I’d become a little lost out here if I chose to explore the countryside.” She told him and walked beside him. “I want your opinion on something, well – not so much as an opinion but more of advice” she started and took a deep breath, “Do you think I should spend the rest of my life pouring drinks behind a bar, or tie up the loose ends with my father and attempt to persuade him to accept me back into his life again?”

She paused, “the reason why I asked is because ive had a lot to think about when I came here, and the man who i…well anyway – nobility plays a big part and it made me think of whether I should stay here or go home. It’s so confusing, I just don’t know where to go or who to turn to”. She told him. If Arthur knew more about love than she did, then hopefully he’d provide a valued answer for this situation.
A small snort escaped her, “Look at me, blabbering on about the most irrelevant things – I want to hear more about your sweetheart” Romily gave him a look that bluntly said ‘I want to know everything’.

[Arthur Pendragon]

He was very glad and relieved to hear that. To hear that he did not have to hope for such things; that she regarded him as that. Though she said she was friends with Lady Yassia, he still wanted her to know that she was not alone in any way. "I will," he assured her. Though it was always difficult to approach people about certain subjects, he easily saw a friend in her. And he continued to hope that this would remain . . . even after she found out of his true status and position. When she thanked him with such a strongly genuine tone, he just gave a bit of a nod. Was she truly not used to people making such offers of aid? At least now, she could grow used to it for he doubted he would cease if she truly required it. When she went on to say that if she needed a tour guide or career advise, then she would come to him. He continued to smile at this, but for reasons unknown to her. For he knew his aid could extend beyond that. Beyond advice or familiarity of the city and kingdom, but he did not yet reveal such a thing, growing distracted with hearing where she would now work.

It did not sound like this was desirable work for her either. He paused before responding to it, making sure to phrase his words carefully. "Have you ever considered making the truth of nobility known, at least to the king. Perhaps he could accommodate you better in the city?" He suggested. Which he would . . . since, well Arthur was this 'king' he was referring to, even if she did not know that. But he could still speak generally about the subject. He knew that she kept her secret well guarded, but if she was truly unhappy in the life of a bar maid, well . . . there was an easy way to remedy this. "I'm sure he would not want to see a noblewoman of nearby kingdom, to be serving drunk men in a tavern." Again, which was true. There was a certain . . . type of woman that worked as a bar maid. Romily did not fall into this category. Without telling her that he was king, he wanted to at least present the option, or solution rather of going to the king and speaking about her nobility.

Arthur smiled once more about her making it known how different he seemed. He supposed the ability to freely be with Guinevère now would do that to him. Despite Morgana, despite his father, he was with Guinevère, and he had gained the company of brothers. As she often suggested, there was always a flicker of hope and light, in any darkened situation. "I suppose I am," he told her once more when she commented about him being happy. He felt bad for remaining on this subject, especially when she spoke of how she had supposedly messed up. He could not form judgment about this, nor agree or disagree . . . for he did not know the full extent of the story. And he knew better than to question it again. "If it is truly meant to be, then it will happen." He knew it sounded a bit cliche but it was true none the less. And it was all the words of comfort he could offer without making assumptions about her situation. He could only speak from his own experience. "But it seldom comes easy," he added, knowing that with being in love with anyone, it took work . . . especially if one truly loved the person enough to fight for a future with them. As had been his case.

When she seemed to welcome the option of a walk, he waited for her to come alongside him so that they could commence their small stroll through the woods. This time, neither of them were running from Cenred's men, nor were they wounded, or on the verge of passing out, and nor were they on their way to an inn in some random town. "Well you did say you would use me as a tour guide; consider the start of that now." Of course the last thing he wanted was for her to get lost so he would make sure to escort her back to the city as well. "I want your opinion on something, well – not so much as an opinion but more of advice." This instantly captured Arthur's attention. Was it about the man again, or something else? He listened intently to her words, slightly surprised by them, though he concealed this reaction and instead deeply contemplated them. Was she considering returning to her father? He listened to what had led to her such considerations . . . as it went back to the issue of this man. He felt more curious, but at the same time, more respectful of her privacy.

He also felt rather honored that she was seeking his advice over such a delicate matter, and did not want to disappoint her by giving useless and inconsiderate words, though he would not dare do such a thing. After several moments of silence, he finally spoke. "I do not think you should return to a life that makes you so unhappy," Arthur began to say. He knew of this, all too well. He could have easily stepped into a life with Elena, because it was his duty to do so. But he had chosen not to, because he knew what was better not only for him, but for everyone. "But I do not think working in a tavern is what makes you happy either," he added. An observation on his part, just from the way she spoke of it. Before she had said she liked the working aspect of it, but now it was evident that she did not want to return to the same rut and mundane schedule that she had once been in. Which was entirely understandable. "You have control over your own happiness. Do you truly feel you will be fulfilled and content if you return to your previous life?" He asked before continuing.

"Your nobility can play a role in your life, but you do not have to make it something that forces you to do something you do not wish. Before when you spoke of your previous life, you sounded so relieved to be free from it. To have the irreplaceable liberty that you could not attain otherwise." He could understand the value in that, though he would never have it. He had come close to it -- when he offered to relinquish his title to the throne and run away with Guinevère -- but now, he knew that Camelot needed him. "If you wish to speak to your father, or you are strongly considering returning to that life, then I have a suggestion, if I may that perhaps you can consider before making any life altering decisions." His words would be spoken as a friend, but also . . . his political mind came slightly into play. "Go to the King of Camelot. Tell him of your nobility and that you wish to seek refuge in his kingdom." Arthur paused, obivously already knowing what the 'king' would say. Since he looked like a knight, at least he could get away with acting as if he knew the king well enough to anticipate his response -- for the moment anyway.

"Then, invite your father to Camelot. Speak to him under these circumstances, showing that you are capable of having a life here, and what compromises he offers upon your return." It would give her a chance to speak to him, without having to return home and ask for his acceptance for her. He was not sure if this was something she would be interested in doing, but if it was, she would have his full support. When she commented about wanting to know more of his sweetheart, he almost didn't answer having been so distracted in helping her. But he did not want to act as if he was ignoring her, or refusing to bring up the woman he loved in conversation. He was not ashamed of Guinevère in the slightest, and did not want to give that impression. "I am certain you will meet her during the duration of your stay here," he said with certainty. "But for now, let us determine how to help your predicament." The problem she was faced with, for it truly was life determining.

[Romily de Braose]

Romily couldn’t help but laugh at the suggestion of speaking to the King. The idea itself sounded a little ridiculous. The only king she’d ever addressed was the King of Carmelide and even then that was awkward. “The King” she chuckled, “The King wouldn’t do anything for me – he’d most likely think me a liar and turn me away, anyone can just say they’re of nobility and not actually have any proof”. She hadn’t any proof. The only proof she had was the pink dress. The iconic and only image of her nobility that she still held close to her.

“Oh goody” she smiled, “So…where’s the first stop of the tour then” she chuckled, “the only places I’ve seen in Camelot are the market place, the training ground of the castle and the inn”. This was the truth. She hadn’t the time to explore – given the fact that she’d practically kept herself shut away for a few days or so as well. Her skirts bustled along the grass, making the only noise, filling the silence between them, that of the grass.

Arthur spoke up when she explained her dilemma. “I do not think you should return to a life that makes you so unhappy," she was a little surprised at this but as he seemed to be a man who knew what he was talking about, she carried on listening, “You have control over your own happiness. Do you truly feel you will be fulfilled and content if you return to your previous life?"

She thought for a few moments before shaking her head. All the things her father had said and done, and how she’d been treated were not memories that she’d like to return to nor resurrect again. “No” she said softly, “No I wont”. She could feel a lump forming in her throat and swallowed hard, trying not to let Arthur see that this subject was quite an upsetting one when now spoken about in full detail. Could her nobility play a role in her life without her having to actually go home? It could but she didn’t know whether people would take her seriously. "If you wish to speak to your father, or you are strongly considering returning to that life, then I have a suggestion, if I may that perhaps you can consider before making any life altering decisions."

Romily looked up at him and frowned, “What is it?” she asked a little cautiously. If it involved stripping in caves then that was a definite no. His next words of course had been his previous. To go to the King, to practically plead her case in her view. “I have already told you that he will no believe a word I say.” she stopped and turned to him, “Arthur, I know you are trying to help me, but going to the King will not solve my problems” with a small sigh she carried on, “Yu make it sound so simple…so…wonderful – but I know that I will not be believed – I have this gut feeling that everyone will laugh at me when I tell him of the situation, and as for my father? No…now that I think about it more it’s out of the question”.

Now onto the ever intriguing subject of Arthur’s happiness. If this woman was anything like Gwen, who showed kindness to complete strangers, listening to their troubles and giving hem flowers, then she was sure that any woman in Camelot like this would make Arthur happy. “Don’t be such a dark horse” she playfully slapped him across the chest, “you’re not getting out of this one that easily, now spill it before I beat it out of you”. With a mock warning glare in his direction she wasn’t about to drop this subject lightly.

"But for now, let us determine how to help your predicament." Arthur wasn’t playing ball, and neither was Romily. “You’ve helped it as much as you can, now it’s time to talk about your life, not mine”.

[Arthur Pendragon]

Arthur looked at her when she chuckled about his idea of her speaking to the king. It seemed she thought the idea was entirely preposterous. He supposed he couldn't blame her . . . though from the way she spoke of speaking to the king, it seemed she had a negative experience in having done so in the past. Maybe not the King of Camelot, but certainly certainly another. He had to hide a smile as well, for he knew that right now, she was technically speaking to the king already. "You'd be surprised," he told her, not wanting her to be so dismissive of the possibility. "I know the king very well." Duh. "He would be understanding and sympathetic to your cause," he told her, confident in such a thing and wanting her to feel able to approach him. "You should at least try. I have no problem in setting up an audience with him for you." Yes. Arthur was definitely finding this a bit ironic . . . alright, so highly ironic.

When she asked with apparent interest where their first stops would be, he thought about where would be the interesting places to go. Other than caves of course. "Seems you have seen quite a lot already," he commented. She had gone to the training ground? That was interesting. Perhaps it was the familiarity of watching knights train that drew her to such a location. "Is there any other particular place you would like to see?" He asked, knowing it was up to her. "The route we are taking is a scenic one, but if you wish to stop in a nearby village, we can certainly do that." Just for the tour. Arthur knew this was what he had wanted, some fresh air and he welcomed the company of course, as it was refreshing to speak to her without having to discuss politics and make decisions for the kingdom. It was the reason he had not yet told her he was king. When she continued to argue that the king would not listen to her . . . Arthur almost wanted to chuckle, but kept a serious expression on his face, for he did not want her to think he was mocking the situation.

"You will not know until you try," he told her, trying to make it sound like he knew the king . . . not was the king. "He listens to the people. He will listen to you." Something generalized, something that he did strive to do. No person was too unimportant to him, whether they were a peasant or a noble, he valued every single one. For they were people in his kingdom. "Why not invite your father? Would it not be better to discuss such matters with him in a neutral area rather than your homeland?" Then she would not have to be dependent on his response, rejecting her or accepting her under his own terms and conditions . . . which may only lead her back to a highly confining and restricted lifestyle. He smiled when she playfully hit him on the chest, saying that he would not too easily divert the subject. "Careful now. I'm wearing armor, and I would not want you to hurt your hand," he said jokingly, when she had lightly slapped him.

"You, are going to beat it out of me?" He asked skeptically, with apparent disbelief, as he was teasing her capability of being successfully in such a threat. "My life is far from exciting," he stated. It was a lie, but he did not often like to talk about the affairs in his life. Talking about Morgana and his father was difficult because of all the pain it brought up, which ruled out his family. Talking about Guinevère was difficult because she was so important to him and he was not used to speaking of their relationship to others -- except for perhaps Merlin -- so that ruled out that subject. And what else? His friends, mostly knights . . . he doubted that would be of any interest to her. His job? Filled with politics and affairs of the kingdom reserved only for councilmen's ears. "Though I will strike you a deal. We will sort out your problem first, and then, I will introduce you to her." For words could not do her justice, and he would not even try. It was better for Romily to just meet Guinevère, as Arthur had no problem with arranging this introduction.

[Romily de Braose]

He knew the King very well. Of course he did. He worked for him after all and was a Knight so it wasn’t a surprise. Romily was a little apprehensive as to whether she should take up the offer or not. For a start she didn’t have much experience with royalty and secondly she didn’t want to be laughed at. Arthur seemed adamant that the King would understand, and she couldn’t help but believe this statement. Arthur hadn’t lied to her about anything so she trusted him completely.
Romily let out a small sigh. “Alright…” she began, “but you have to PROMISE to be by my side for moral support – I cannot do this alone”. In all honesty she was now more scared than ever, but smiled weakly. “You are too good to me”.

"Why not invite your father? Would it not be better to discuss such matters with him in a neutral area rather than your homeland?"

Romily couldn’t help but laugh. “My father told me that he had nothing more to say to me when we were last together – so I very much doubt that in three years he will have changed his opinion. He is a stubborn man, and I refuse to believe that my absence has turned him soft”.
Durwin de Braose was a tough man to break. Not even Arthur or the King of Camelot would be able to make him see sense if his own daughter couldn’t. “If I did happen to make an advantageous marriage then perhaps his views might change, but I highly doubt it will ever happen – ive always said that I’d never marry, that opinion differed when Gw…never mind…what’s more is that I do not think I will marry.” She explained.

“I’ve been hurt far worse than a bruise to the hand” she joked after his warning, “I cannot understand how any man can wear it in this heat”. Romily fanned herself, the rays from the sun were quite hot against her skin; she couldn’t imagine what it was like for Arthur. "You, are going to beat it out of me?" he said this with uncertainty.
“You’d be surprised at my sword craft. Anyone brawled in my bar then they were out of there as fast as their legs could carry them.” This was true; she’d been a bit of a dragon when it came down to brawls. Thankfully it had only been once or twice that she’d found herself in that situation. Once upon a time Romily wouldn’t have said boo to a goose, but her ever growing independence and solitary life had meant that she’d had to fight to survive.

It seemed as though she wasn’t going to get anything out of him that easily. "Though I will strike you a deal. We will sort out your problem first, and then, I will introduce you to her."
Romily thought to herself for a moment and then held out her hand for him to shake. “Ok muscles – you’ve got yourself a deal, just make sure you keep your promise to me and I shall do so to you”.