A Clash of Cultures? (Morgana)

[Caitrin de Archer]

Caitrin had taken the bold step of attending court without her Uncle today. She had only been in Camelot for a few weeks now, but she was already starting to get used to the people and the culture. Of course it was still hard for her to comprehend that she could no longer use her sorcery, but that was something she was going to have to start getting used to. She could be annoyed, and scream and shout about it until the end of the day but it would get her nowhere. Plus, she quite liked her head where it was.

A feast had been held in Camelot for the knighting of one of Arthur’s men, the young man in question was quite handsome, but not enough to tempt Caitrin. Then again, if he did approach her then of course she would have fun with teasing and toying with him, but little more. Men were always fun to toy with; they always rose to the bait. At least that was what Caitrin had found in her rather limited experience.

In a way, Caitrin was glad her Uncle had not accompanied her, of course she had had a guard to conduct her safely from her Uncle’s estate to Camelot; but she was quite glad of a bit of peace. She and her Uncle Rouland were still getting used to each other in a way, as before her coming to Camelot they had never lived together. She had seen him on the odd occasion when he had visited the family in Mercia, but that was it.

Taking a goblet of wine from the nearest servant, Caitrin began to walk around the room in an almost curious way. She didn’t know that many people yet. Of course she knew the King, and the Prince (who had taken her on a private tour of the Kingdom a week ago), and a few of the nobles, but there were so many she didn’t know. In a way she still felt like an outsider, although she had no basis for her fear, she worried many would not want to have much to do with her because of the tensions between the Kingdoms of Mercia and Camelot. At best Caitrin had been an obscure noblewoman in Camelot, and although she had been friendly with the Mercian Prince, Oliver, she had rarely been in Camelot.

So this was her, a young Mercian woman trying to conduct herself in a Camelot manner. In truth there were not many differences between the Kingdoms. Out of the corner of her eye she spied a beautifully dressed woman who she assumed to be the King’s ward; the Lady Morgana. The King had told Caitrin about her, expressing that the women would probably be friends. Of course Caitrin wouldn’t presume so much, and she didn’t approach Morgana as that would probably be too forward; if she wanted conversation then she would start it herself. It wasn’t being rude, it was being polite.

Tags: Lady Morgana
Timeline: Pre-series 1. Around a year before the series starts.
Location: The Grand Hall in Camelot
Music: Dancing in the Rain- The Tudors OST
Notes: Hope this is ok! If you need anything editing let me know!

[ladymorgana]

With a deep sigh of boredom, Morgana leaned across the table and propped her head up on her hand. With her free hand, she absent mindedly began running the tip of her index finger around the rim of her goblet, and soon lost herself in her own private thoughts. There were always Knightings happening in Camelot. Then, the Grand Hall would be full of big, surly, hairy men, all comparing sword size and talking macho, men talk. The air would be filled with boasting and bragging; "mine's bigger than yours," or "I took on an army, and killed them all in one stroke." Morgana stifled a yawn. At moments like this, she felt like the last woman alive in Camelot.

Morgana glanced to her right, where Uther was deep in conversation with the new Knight. They were both immersed in talk of battle formations, sentrys and the latest weaponry. To her left, was an empty space, where Arthur should be. She frowned, quizzically, and wondered where he had gotten to. She averted her gaze across the Hall, where the Knights and Gentry mingled freely, all, no doubt, having identical conversations to Uther and the new Knight. Conversations to which Morgana, as a woman, was excluded. As her gaze swept the Hall, she spotted a flash of flame red hair darting between two men. That was unusual, Morgana thought to herself.

Her curiosity piqued, Morgana got to her feet. She would have remembered that distinctive hair colour, if she had encountered it at Court before. And going by the length of it, it was another female. A new comer? She asked herself as she stepped down from the dais to seek out the owner of that flame red hair. It didn't take long. Morgana found the immaculately dressed young lady still meandering through the Hall. She was quite a well-to-do woman, too, if the gown was anything to go by. Morgana bobbed and weaved through the rowdy Knights and guests, and made a wobbly beeline for the lady. The only other lady that Morgana could see.

"Hello there!" She called out in a voice that oozed relief mingled with excitement, as she finally caught up with the new comer. She reached out her hand. "Excuse my interruption, but I saw you from up on the dais. I thought you looked like you could use a little company. I know I certainly could!"

Morgana spoke rapidly, trying to dispell the first meeting awkwardness that always surrounded these encounters.

"My name is Lady Morgana," She hastily introduced herself. "I am Uther's ward. And pleased to meet you."

[Caitrin de Archer]

The feast was really getting into the swing of things, and Caitrin walked from one group to the next, never lingering very long. She loved just hearing the different conversations, of war, love and alliances. It felt like a completely different world to the one she had grown up with. Occasionally a man would try to catch her eye, she was sure that already her distinctive hair colour was making all the right impressions. Anything that set her apart from the crowd could only be a good thing.

One man gave her a quick wink but seemed disappointed when she didn't blush, or really give any reaction but that of pressing her lips together into a knowing grin and turning away. It was no fun when they made it too easy. Caitrin much preferred the chase to the capture; she couldn't imagine it any other way.

Sipping her wine, she wove in between the courtiers until she found herself a bit of space to allow herself time to think without worrying about dodging the rather merry people around her. Overall court was turning out to be an experience; not that she was complaining.

As Caitrin heard a womans voice call out, she spun around on her heels and was quite surprised to be faced with the King's ward; the Lady Morgana. She was quite shocked the woman had sought her out, but she was glad of it. She smiled at Morgana's words of seeking her out to provide her with some company. "Thank you, these feasts are better enjoyed in pairs wouldn't you agree?" It was always better if you had someones ear to chat into, or at the very least a friendly face to inquire after.

As Morgana formally introduced herself, Caitrin bowed her head and smiled up at the woman. "It is so nice to meet you at last. My name is Lady Caitrin de Archer." As she was a ward too then she and Caitrin already had one thing in common, "I am a ward too; I live on my Uncle's estate as his ward." She explained. Her thick Mercian accent would probably give her away but you could never be sure with these things. Perhaps it wouldn't bother Morgana. "Are you enjoying the feast?" She asked courteously, not sure quite where to take the conversation.

[ladymorgana]

A flicker of understanding, crossed Morgana's features. She knew the Wardship system well. Children, some barely weaned from the breast, effectively "bought" by nobles, or distant relatives, usually for marital purposes, to further their families ambitions. Brought up far from home, sometimes in other Kingdoms. Morgana, as hard as she (and others) tried, had always felt the outsider in Camelot. She made a decision there and then, to do her best to make Caitrin feel welcome in her new home. So, before she became too maudlin or droll, she scooped two goblets of mead from the tray of a passing servant, passed one to her new friend, and said:

"Come on, Caitrin, let's find somewhere quieter were we can talk."

Morgana beamed as she led the way to the back of the Hall, ignoring the lecherous leering of the merry revellers, towards the back. They came to a long, wide window embrasure where they wouldn't have to shout over the din of the feast. Although it was dark outside, the star strewn sky stretched out over the city like diamanté. While the torch lights, and beacons burned brightly alond the castle walls, and from the houses that sat, higgedly-piggeldy, within the confines of the citadel. The sight was still quite spectacular.

Morgana sipped at her mead to wet her lips, and opened the conversation.

"I know what it feels like to be a newcomer to Camelot," She empathised. "I came here when I was ten, after my father died in battle, in the Northern Plains. Uther has been so good to me, and Arthur is like a brother. I have wanted for nothing, I know that. But, it will never be the same as real family. There will always be that link missing."

Her voice grew distant, and inwardly, she chided herself for becoming so maudlin after she had sworn not to not five minutes earlier. She gave herself a good, mental, shake down, and began again.

"Listen to me, complaining!" She laughed. "Where are you from originally? Your accent is familiar, but I can't quite place it?"

[Caitrin de Archer]

Caitrin smiled back at Morgana, already the woman seemed quite friendly in her disposition and Caitrin could only be glad of it. She hadn't been quite sure what to expect from those in Camelot when she had journeyed here. There were rumours in Mercia about the tyrant that was Uther, and the Great Purge and that the court too was quite a fearful thing. Perhaps Caitrin had been quite a foolish young girl to give any credit to such words; her brothers had probably just been trying to scare her before her journey.

The suggestion of finding somewhere quieter to speak was definatly a good idea. That was always the problem of court, there were too many ears waiting to listen in, and it was always quite loud. She followed Morgana, noticing that she turned quite a few heads herself. It was only to be expected though after all, she was quite a well dressed and handsome young woman; any fool could see that! As Morgana stopped beside a quite large window, Caitrin couldn't help but cast her gaze over the dimly lit city. Camelot certainly was beautiful, even in the starlight. Arthur had been the first to introduce her to such a view, and she was certain that she would never tire of it. "It's beautiful isn't it?" She asked Morgana in an almost excited voice as she looked back to the woman.

As Caitrin listened to Morgana's story she couldn't help but feel sorry for her. After all, it was hard to lose any member of your family, but to then relocate completely must have been terrible indeed. "I'm sorry to hear about your father." Caitrin said softly and sincerely, "Was the transition to life in Camelot difficult?" The question wasn't meant to make Morgana feel uncomfortable, but Caitrin had to adapt to Camelotian life now, and she wasn't sure how easy that would be. "At least I have been sent to live with family. My father could no longer afford to keep me." She pressed her lips together softly, Morgana had opened up to her so perhaps she could do her the same kindness, "My father gave me a choice, either marry a man of his choosing, or be sent to live with my Uncle. I confess, I am not one for marriage, or at least not yet." She gave a soft smile because that was how you coped with desperate situations, you laughed them off like they were nothing.

Caitrin couldn't help but give a smile as Morgana inquired after her accent; it was the thing which most Camelot folk found most intriguing about her; well after her flame red hair. "I'm from Mercia originally, but my accent is a mix of Mercia and the Northern lands, as that was where my mother was from."

[ladymorgana]

Morgana's gaze roved over the darkened city as Caitrin spoke. Memories of her arrival at Camelot washed over her. "It was hard," She recalled. "I was still grieving for my father. Then Uther tried to take his place, and I fought against him, constantly. It's different now, though. This is the only home I know."

A smile returned to her face, however, and she drained her mead. The subject of marraige was always a difficult one for a woman, and Morgana could completely understand Caitrin's decision to come to Camelot, rather than get stuck with a total stranger for a husband. It struck her as odd, however, that Uther had thus far made no attempt to marry her off. It was though, for some reason, he didn't want to let her go. She dismissed those thoughts, and returned to the conversation at hand.

"You'll grow to love Camelot, so don't pay much heed to what I say. Much better here, than waking up next to a stranger every day," She grinned. "There's never a dull moment, here. Uther can be a difficult man, and he's probably best avoided. But everyone else is fine. Have you met Prince Arthur?"

Arthur. That perpetual thorn in Morgana's side. Digging in deep one minute, and moving heaven and earth to help her, the next. He was as loveable as he was irritating.

"If you have, Arthur can be arrogant, condescending, and over-bearing," She explained. "But, he has a heart of gold, underneath it all. He's not like Uther, he follows his heart, and has a strong sense of right and wrong. Then there is Guineveré, my maid. I know she is only a maid, but she is my dearest, oldest friend. If it hadn't been for her, I would have lost my mind, a long time ago. I can introduce you?"

[Caitrin de Archer]

To Caitrin it seemed like Morgana had been quite close to her father. Caitrin had never really had that luxury. Growing up in such a large family, she had been rather pushed to the back of the queue until she was needed. Her father preferred his sons to his daughters, and he had made that known on more than one occasion. Sometimes Caitrin wondered if her life would have been any different if he had shown her compassion and love in her younger years, but she wouldn't be the person she was today if he had, so perhaps it was better like this. "I think if I had come to Camelot at an earlier age then I would have fought against my Uncle." She smiled softly, "But I am sure I will see Camelot as my only home soon enough, as you have." That was probably quite a way off in the distance, but conversations like this were already helping Caitrin to settle.

Caitrin couldn't agree more with Morgana's words. In Camelot she still had her freedom; she could still be a single woman and enjoy all the benefits it brought. There was nothing to attract her to marriage, a stranger and perhaps a child on her every year. She didn't feel ready for any of that just yet. "I have met King Uther, he invited me and my Uncle to court when I first arrived in Camelot." She explained with a soft smile, "He is nothing how some in the Mercian courts described him." She gave a soft laugh and took a sip of her mead.

Once again Caitrin nodded, she had met Arthur; he had taken her out for a ride throughout the Kingdom a few days ago. Caitrin had loved every second, it had just been the two of them and it had simply been perfect. Of course Caitrin didn't see anything into it; he was just another man. "Yes, he took me on a ride to show me the Kingdom; it was quite the adventure." She grinned a little but the ride with Arthur had been one of the highs of her time so far in Camelot.

A maid who was friends with a noblewoman? Caitrin had never had a maid so she had never really encountered that, but if she was friends with Morgana then she had to be quite friendly. The woman clearly thought a lot of her. "I would love to meet her; I am trying to meet as many people here in Camelot as I can. It makes it a little less daunting being at court with so many new faces." The quicker she made friends and made her face known the easier the transition to her new life would be.

[ladymorgana]

"What did you make of Uther?" Morgana asked, her brow knotted quizzically. "Even after all these years, the man is an enigma to me," She mused. She had been his ward for many years, now. She had riled against him, and he had proven himself extraordinarily patient with her. Other times, he was harsh. He was tyrannical towards his people on the one hand, and over-protective, and highly involved on the other. One never knew what one would get with Uther. But at least it seemed Arthur had treated Caitrin well.

"You must have met Arthur on a good day," She laughed. Perhaps it was because of their proximity that Arthur felt the need to tease Morgana so badly. But, he knows, too, that Morgana could give as good as she got. "Anyway, never mind the men. I think I should introduce you to Gwen. She lives in the Citadel, and I know we'll get on so well!"

Morgana couldn't deny that she was excited to have another female friend about the place. Gwen was often too busy to talk to her properly, and Morgana hated to intrude upon her rare, and treasured family time. Perhaps, she thought to herself, Caitrin would be around more often. God knows, it must be hard with just a little known uncle for company. The last thing she wanted was to pry, but Morgana couldn't help probing a little further.

"So, who is your Uncle? Is he here at Court?"

[Caitrin de Archer]

Hmm. Caitrin knew better than to speak her complete mind so soon in the conversation. She was still new in Camelot and did not want to upset anyone; especially not the King. She smiled softly and shrugged, "He seemed quite nice, the picture which had been painted of him in Mercia was not too pleasing, but he managed to dispense most of their rumours." Of course the one thing he could never dispel was his ruthlessness towards those with magic. It was also the one thing Caitrin could never forgive in him.

She gave a soft laugh at Morgana's words. She hoped that Arthur was that nice all the time, of course he might have just been putting it on, but she hoped not. It would be nice to think that she really was that welcomed in Camelot, and that they were indeed friends. Caitrin was however quite excited about meeting this Gwen, she was clearly someone who Morgana held in high regard, "I am sure I will get on well with her." Caitrin said softly and smiled back at Morgana.

Caitrin pressed her lips together as Morgana inquired after her Uncle. She wasn't sure how well she would know her Uncle, after all he was very rarely at court. He didn't particularly lead a social life, and he didn't want to change that. If he had his way he would stay in his study all year round and not come out for anything. It was his way, and Caitrin had already learned that she was never going to change it, so she just had to accept it. "His name is Lord Rouland de Archer, I'm not sure how well you would know him." At the latter part of Morgana's question Caitrin shook her head, "He does not like court so rarely attends, though he did let me come on my own." That was something, he wanted to lead the solitary life, but he did not impost it on his young niece.

Taking in another swig of mead, Caitrin looked to the dimly lit city for a few moments. It truly was breathtaking, and Caitrin hoped it would remain like that for the duration of her stay here in Camelot. Looking back to Morgana she smiled, "So what do you do for fun at court? I am sure you must have plenty of men asking for your hand in a dance?" Perhaps there was even someone who had already caught her eye. It was always the way with women, if there was one thing they could do well it was gossip.

[ladymorgana]

Morgana could well imagine what the Mercian's said about Uther, and the worse part was, she knew that they were not entirely wrong. But, she chose not to dampen the atmosphere between them by speaking about the relations between the two Kingdoms. All that really mattered to Morgana was the here, and the now. "Uther is not as bad as people say," She said, her voice low now, even though no one had a chance of over hearing her. "He has many ghosts in his past. His wife, Ygraine. They say her death changed him. Made him angry," By 'they' she meant the kindly Court physician, Gaius, but she would never mention his name in a conversation such as this one. But, Uther was a fenced off area of no man's land for most of the Citizens. They feared to speak his name, and Morgana was keen to dispell some of the myths that surrounded the man. He was not, after all, a clear, cut and dry, ogre.

As Morgana followed the line of Caitrin's gaze out over the darkened Citadel, she was struck by the brightness of the stars shining down on them. It was a sign that the night was drawing on, as the constellations now twinkled down at them. But, Morgana was enjoying herself immensely, now that she had another woman to speak with. But, alas, the name of Caitrin's Uncle meant little to her. She prided herself on knowing just about everyone in the town of Camelot. She didn't like to pry in people's lives, but she liked to be accessible to her Guardian's people, just as much as Arthur, and Uther were. She, too, had her duties, and she relished them.

"I can understand your uncle not coming to Court," Morgana rolled her eyes as she pointed to the now rowdy crowds that were singing and dancing the night away behind them, in the Great Hall. "If a man loves his solitude, the last place he should be is amongst drunken Knights who's idea of fun is yards of ale, and lighting their own farts."

In fact, it must have been getting towards the time of night when such stunts had started to seem like excellent ideas to some of the younger Knights. If there was on thing that Morgana did envy, however, it was her freedom. Uther would never let Morgana go anywhere on her own. Not even to the markets within the Citadel walls. So, Caitrin's next question had her suppressing laughter.

"Men asking me for a dance!?" She laughed. "Uther would have them skinned alive, and strung up along the walls of the city. Even if they did dare approach."

Uther's wild over-protectiveness may have struck some as odd. He was her guardian, not her father. But, he was still going to be using her marraige to suit the needs of Camelot. Morgana was born and raised to expect a political alliance for a husband. So, for her own good, she could not go developing feelings for a man who was unsuitable for her, only to have her heart broken when the inevitable moment of separation came.

"But there are plenty of ways to have fun, though," Morgana was quick to counter any thoughts that her life was one, long, rota of official duties. "I often go out riding with Uther, Arthur, and Gwen. As often as I can, in fact. I've learned some sword craft from Uther and Arthur, and I can hold my own in a fight, I reckon. Not that I do much fighting! So, tell me, Lady Caitrin, what do you enjoy doing in your free time? I bet with your hair and figure, you're not wanting for male attention. You'll be beating this pack off, soon enough!"

[Caitrin de Archer]

Caitrin didn't really want to dwell on Mercian opinion towards Camelot while she was still here. She wasn't prejudice because she hadn't been at court enough to have er views influenced. The only thing which did ale her was the close mindedness to which magic was approached in Camelot. Magic was not always employed for negative purposes, and for example Caitrin herself would never use her sorcery to harm another, so why should she be persecuted alongside those who would wish to harm others with magic? It made no sense to Caitrin, but she would not become heated about the issue here of all places. "I see." Was all she could think to say, "I had not heard about his wife, all I was told about was what followed." She would not say what had happened because truly it was too horrible to even think about for too long. To think all those people had been killed in the Purge; it made her stomach turn.

Caitrin had suspected that Morgana would not know her Uncle personally. He had no reason to speak to Morgana so he would never have made the effort to. Her Uncle did after all only come to court when it suited his own purposes, or when his presence was needed. It was not that he didn't like Camelot, he was just not a particulary sociable person. Caitrin let out quite a bubbly laugh at Morgana's words, "No I doubt that would appeal to him at all," She replied with another short laugh, "But tell me, court life isn't that bad is it?" She had been rather absent in the Mercian courts, but she intended to be rather active in the court of Camelot. It was fun so far and she hoped that experience continued.

Morgana's reaction to her words was quite comical really. Caitrin smiled but then she understood as Morgana explained about Uther being rather over-protective. "My father was like that too, he never let me go to court. Which is why I now intend to enjoy the freedom away from him." She studied Morgana carefully but gave a wide smile, "But surely there is someone here who has caught your eye, or who wishes to catch yours?" Everyone knew that romance and court life went hand in hand, and Morgana simply had to have her eye on someone didn't she?

Caitrin was quite surprised to hear that Morgana had been taught sword craft. Her eyes widened slightly but she was more impressed than shocked for the disregard of the social norm. "Do you know much swordcraft then?" She asked, incredibly impressed, "I was taught archery rather than swordplay, I think my father would have had a heart attack at the thought of me with a sword. He was rather traditional." And that was putting it nicely.

A hand lifted to run through Caitrin's hair as she let out an amused half laugh at Morgana's words. What did she enjoy doing with her free time? Well there were many ways to answer that, but Caitrin had to think how to phrase it. "I enjoy riding, my Uncle gave me the most beautiful mare as a sort of welcome present." She smiled softly, "I'm never quite sure what it is with my hair, men are almost just attracted to it." She gave a small wink to indicate the jest to Morgana, "But I have no intenton of finding a serious suitor anytime soon, like I said, I'm not sure I'm one for marriage quite yet."

[ladymorgana]

Morgana began formulating ideas rapidly. She had already settled on a meeting with Gwen, and now she was planning on swordplay lessons, too. Although she couldn't hold a candle to the likes of Arthur, and the Knights of Camelot, she knew she was more than adequate with a sword. She placed her glass down on the window ledge, and nudged the nearest Knight.

"Excuse me," She said to the gentleman. "I'm just going to borrow your sword for a moment."

Without waiting for an answer, Morgana slid the blade effortlessly from the knights swordbelt. It's not like the man was in any position to refuse the Ward of the King. Morgana thanked the man, and turned back to Lady Caitrin, with the sword gripped firmly by the hilt. She turned the blade over, so that it caught the candle light, and glimmered dangerously. It always gave her a thrill.

"You hold it like this," She demonstrated, nodding to her hands that clasped the ornate handle comfortably. "Get a feel for it, and find it's balance. Then, when you're comfortable with it, you practise some basic strokes."

Morgana gave an impromptu demonstration, from a safe distance. She showed Caitrin some attack, as well as defensive moves, and how to parry blows from assailants. While she was still demonstrating how to use the sword, Morgana elaborated on the rest of what they had talked about. Men.

"I like to keep my options open," She winked slyly. "I am off limits to most men, because of Uther, and Arthur. But, some of the Knights are worth checking out."

Morgana lowered the sword, and handed it over to Caitrin, handle first. The owner of the sword lurked behind Morgana, his expression one of fear, mingled with awe as the women seemed to take possession of his weaponry.

"Here, you try it."

[Caitrin de Archer]

Caitrin simply loved how impulsive Morgana was as she took hold of the Knight's sword. It was refreshing to meet a noblewoman such as Morgana, others tended to be a bit dull, and although Caitrin had brought up the topic of men, it wasn't the most interesting of topics to converse about. The issue and practice of swordplay, however, was. She took the last gulp of her mead and set it beside Morgana's glass before joining the woman once more.

She just watched in awe at how Morgana handled the weapon. She had never seen a woman holding a sword before now, it had been quite frowned upon in Mercia. However, she could see the look of enthusiasm on Morgana's face, and it was almost infectious and she found herself simply brimming with excitement. She was of course an attentive student as Morgana talked about the sword and then proceeded to show her a few moves. "I may have to seek out a few of the Knights then." Caitrin replied with a soft wink to Morgana, but her attention was quickly diverted as Morgana offered the blade to her.

She took the sword gladly, and held the hilt as Morgana had. She took a few moments to get a feel for it; it was quite a bit heavier than she had been expecting. "Is this right?" She asked, showing Morgana how she was holding the sword. It looked, and felt right to Caitrin, but she had no idea really did she?

She then took a few steps back to put a safe distance between herself and the other noblewoman. She tried to mimic a few of the moves which Morgana had shown her. Of course her attempts were quite clumsy and inexperienced, but she was enjoying herself so did it really matter how bad she was? Looking back to Morgana she smiled, "I think I will need some more practice with this." She laughed softly, "But I must return the favour to you, have you ever practiced archery? If not I could show you sometime?"

[ladymorgana]

Morgana watched, smiling, as Caitrin found her way with the sword. It was unusual for a woman to be trained in swordplay, but not frowned upon; which it obviously was in Mercia. Sometimes, Morgana took such freedoms for granted. She sometimes didn't realise how lucky she was. But now, as she passed her sword craft on to another woman, she couldn't help but beam with pride. She moved to stand behind Caitrin, and reached around so that she was helping to hold the sowrd.

"Don't grip too hard, or your hands and wrists will ache," She advised, as she took some of the weight of the blade. "Just make it so it's comfortable. You think you're going to drop it, but you won't, because it's so finely wrought. Gwen's father is the local blacksmith, and he makes all our blades. He is the best there is."

Morgana stepped back again, leaving Caitrin to hold the sword more comfortably. Morgana had once tried archery. Her aim had been appalling, Arthur had fallen to the floor laughing so hard he hyperventillated, and she had stomped off in a temper. Since that day, she had never taken up a long bow. She had the distinct feeling that Caitrin would be a much more patient teacher, however.

"I should warn you, my aim is shocking!" Morgana laughed. "But, if you think you have the heart and sinew to try and teach me properly, I would love to join you for an archery session. Never mind the Knights, we'll be joining them soon enough, at this rate!"

Uther wouldn't quite countenance that. But, for a man so set in his ways as Uther, Morgana always got the impression that he was proud to have a female ward so accomplished at sword craft. It was something that made Uther quite unique, and rather special to her, regardless of what other people think of him.

[Caitrin de Archer]

Caitrin appreciated the help Morgana was giving her with the grip on the sword. She had been holding it quite tightly, so much so her knuckles had gone white. It still felt quite new and foreign to her in a way, after all she had never held a sword before tonight, and it was a bit of a baptism of fire. At least there was no opponent; that would have been something wouldn't it? She followed Morgana's advice right down to the letter; she was after all quite an eager tutor. Caitrin enjoyed learning, no matter what task was set to her.

"It certainly handles well." Caitrin said softly, as if she actually knew what she was talking about. "It must be handy, that Gwen's father crafts the blades?" She then asked, it always helped to know the people behind their trade because you always knew that you were getting what you paid for. It made things more simple and gave it a bit of a community feel.

Caitrin rested the sword in her hand for a moment as Morgana spoke of her archery skills. She waved off her concerns about having a terrible shot; Caitrin wasn't a master archer herself, but she prided herself on being quite an accomplished archer. "I will teach you all I know." Caitrin promised faithfully, "I'm sure you aren't that bad anyway, archery is easy once you get the hang of it."

Nodding eagerly Caitrin let out a short laugh, "I'm sure we could show these knight's a thing or two." She said rather boldly and once again began to get a feel for the blade. "Can you picture us fighting alongside them?" She laughed again, for it would never be, but it was quite an amusing image to hold for the time being.

[ladymorgana]

"That's Camelot," Morgana answered. "Everybody knows everybody else. It's a lovely community, but does get cloying."

That was not a word of a lie, either. The closeness, and friendliness was legendary, despite all that had happened over the last twenty or so years. But Camelot had never lost it's spirit of resilience and community spirit It was something that Morgana could not help but admire. But, at other times, it was over-bearing, and a break from the glass house was always welcome. Other times, Morgana viewed the people of the city like links in a chain. Each one depending on the next. Feeding into one another, and creating a unified whole.

"There, you're really getting the hang of that sword, now," Morgana beamed as she watched Caitrin hold the blade much more confidently. It had become like an extension of her natural arm. "I hope I pick up on archery as swiftly as you picked up the sword!"

Somehow, she doubted it. It had been years since Morgana even looked at a bow. But, she yearned to know, now that she had a confident teacher who she knew would not mock her shortcomings. She would, so to speak, give these lessons her best shot. Besides, she enjoyed hunting as much as anybody, and this would be of great assistance to her hunting parties.

"Oh the Knights wouldn't let us join them," Morgana explained, rolling her eyes. "They'd be too afraid of us showing them up!" She laughed softly as she reached out for a new goblet of mead from a passing servant. Behind them, at the heart of the Great Hall, the music carried on playing, and men danced, badly, all about the place. Morgana nodded to them.

"How do you fancy teaching them a few steps?" She asked. "I think we could do with a dance."

[Caitrin de Archer]

It sounded like a wonderful community to Caitrin. She would enjoy becoming part of it, or at least she assumed she would. She was already making friends, and joining in the spirit of Camelot. Perhaps she would find a home here after all. She smiled softly at Morgana and nodded. "I hope I can find a place in that community." She expressed softly. She did want to settle here, and although she was Mercian, she hoped people would just see her for who she was; without the worry of the politics of the world.

Moving back onto the topic of swordplay, Caitrin beamed as Morgana confirmed that she was holding the sword correctly. She began to move the sword about casually, really getting a feel for it. She couldn't help but laugh at Morgana's comments, "Name the date and I shall teach you all that I know. But I'm sure you will be a natural."

Leaning slightly on the sword, she laughed once again at Morgana's words and began to watch some of the Knights. "Their fears ae of course justified." She replied boldly, "As we could take them on any day of the week." Grinning Caitrin passed the sword back to Morgana as the woman began to suggest dancing. Caitrin's eyes lit up. Although they would never be able to show the knights in swordplay, they could certainly show them up with their dancing. It was quite an exciting thought and Caitrin then looked around at the section of knights that she and Morgana could have the pleasure of showing off in front of. "Shall we do some solo pieces, or perhaps teach them some steps by partnering them?"

[ladymorgana]

Morgana, with a glint in her eye, returned the sword to it's relieved owner. Gosh, could the man not see that they were both naturals? Nevertheless, Morgana disregarded him, turned back to Caitrin, and pulled her back to the heart of the party, where they could prowl the room, and pick out the best looking Knights who they would honour with their hand in a dance. Ocasionally, Morgana would pause as they passed a gaggle of Knights, and look them over appraisingly.

"What about that Gentleman?" She would point to one or the other, but then some minor flaw would manifest itself in the Knight's person, and she would wrinkle her nose and walk on by, with her arm still firmly locked through Caitrin's. "Heavens!" She exclaimed in exasperation. "This is hopeless!"

All around them, the music swelled again as the party continued apace. Various Knights and other Gentlemen watched the two ladies, their eyes glittering through the gloom, tracking them as they made their circuitous route around the circumference of the room. Several of the men tried to subtly stand out from his friends, surreptitiously smoothing their hair, or their tunics, hoping that either one of the ladies would pick him. They would strike a pose, hand on hips, trying to exalt their masculinity, only to visibly deflate as the women passed them over. It made Morgana stifle the laughter into the sleeve of her gown.

"Have you seen anything you fancy yet, My Lady?" Morgana asked, leaning to speak in Caitrin's ear, so she could heard over the babble of voices and the undulating music. "You know, if we don't find something suitable soon, we may just have to take to the floor ourselves, and show them how it's done!"

[Caitrin de Archer]

Caitrin flashed a grin at the man who Morgana had handed the sword back to. She was almost sad to see the blade go, but her attentions were quickly diverted as Morgana rushed her off in another direction with the purpose of finding a man for a dance. It was always quite amusing that the stereotype was that women were the vain ones in society. But this was proving to be something quite different. Caitrin noticed men would try and catch her eye as the two women went past, or they would cock a grin or something similar. It was all rather amusing really.

She was distracted by Morgana's words, and looked over the men in question. She could tell many of them thought very highly of themselves just from the way they carried themselves. Caitrin frowned slightly, Jesu how hard was it to get a partner for a dance nowadays? One of the men tried to catch her eye but Caitrin ignored him, she had no time for men who just wanted her for a quick dance. No, she wanted a bit of fun, something of a challenge. "You haven't got all the good looking knights locked away somewhere have you?" She jested at Morgana as they continued to circle the room.

"No, not yet my Lady, and yourself?" She answered Morgana's question truthfully because there was no man in the room who had taken her particular fancy just yet. No one was even prepared to approach them! Why was this such hard work. "Shall we take to the floor together? Perhaps one of them may even pluck up the courage to ask us for another dance then?"

[ladymorgana]

Morgana could only agree that there was a dearth of male talent in Camelot that night. She shuddered at the thought of being partnered with Prince Arthur, too. It was not that she disliked Arthur, it's just that he was like a brother to her, and it always felt awkward when she was partnered with him. She pushed those thoughts aside, worrying about nothing, seeing as the Prince was nowhere to be seen, anyway. Instead, she cast a wary one more time around the Knights.

"Gosh!" Morgana exclaimed to Caitrin as she followed the line of her gaze. "They're posing like armoured peacocks!"

Yes, there was nothing else for it. Together, Morgana and Caitrin would have to join forces and take to the floor themselves, and show these Knights how to enjoy themselves properly. As if it wasn't bad enough that they could probably also beat them in a meleé, too. They now have to instruct them on dance, too!

"Come on," She said to Lady Caitrin. "Let's do it, and hope they learn something."

Her mind made up, Morgana waited until the musicians struck up the next song before leading the way on to the wide, clear space where they could dance comfortably. She did'nt care if people stared, thesedays. A few years ago, she would have been mortally embarrassed. But coming to Camelot had done a lot for her self-confidence.

The tune was of a lively tempo, and the dance a lively one, but Morgana was relieved to see that they both knew the steps perfectly. She smiled sedately as she twirled about the floor alongside Caitrin.

"This is more like it!" Morgana laughed with delight. Finally, some good natured fun to be had, instead of lurking in the corners and whispering in low voices. "Do you think these men have got the message, yet?"