Here and Now [Caitrin]

[Oliver Strathmore of Mercia]

Knowing that his presence there was unwarranted, Oliver had quickly and furtively extricated himself from the much too official and rather boring company that his father Lord Bayard of Mercia and his brother Edmund, the Crown Prince of Mercia, kept. After the Arthur’s coronation ceremonies, members of the royalty and nobility from different kingdoms alike had been playing catch up. And while Oliver thought those to be worthy conversation, he thought it was more for his brother than for him.

He had found himself leaving the huge hall and out to the courtyards where preparations for the night’s festivities were being prepared. Everybody in all of Camelot and beyond were certainly here to celebrate Arthur’s interim coronation as ruler of Camelot. It was interesting to see the mix of cultures and classes of the people who had come.

He was particularly admiring a group of fine stallions when he caught sight of someone he hadn’t seen in a long while. Someone with whom he had fond memories with, someone from home. Caitrin de Archer. He had known she left Mercia to stay with her uncle here in Camelot. It had been a good five or six years, and she had grown into a quite a lovely woman. Still she was every bit the Caitrin that he had remembered. Oliver had actually been thinking of seeking her out while he was here, and now it seems he didn’t have to.

“Cat! Lady Caitrin!” he called out to her, leaving the fine horses as he rushed to where she was.

[Caitrin de Archer]

The coronation had been suitably spectacular, and Caitrin had enjoyed every moment of it, as she knew that she would. The preparations for the rest of the festivities were now underway, so Caitrin had stolen a few moments to herself before the feasting and dancing got underway. She was by herself for the time being, Griff had retired to their chambers to change or something like that, Caitrin hadn't really been listening. She would meet back up with her fiancee when she returned back to the Great Hall. She couldn't wait to take his hand again and dance the night away. Between them they were a handsome couple, and so they made no effort to hide it.

Outside in the courtyard, it was rather quiet which was amusing given the havoc which was occurring inside the castle. It seemed a bit like organised chaos to Caitrin. It was quite nice to just step out into the courtyard and take in some fresh air. There were some nobles bobbing about in the courtyard, though no one who caught Caitrin's eye to converse with. What a shame. Then again, she was sure there would be plenty of people in the Great Hall for her to converse with later.

She began to toy with some ribbon she had woven into her hair, ensuring it stayed in place. The ribbon was a deep blue, which matched her dress which was a blue silk dress. Her Uncle had pointed out it would be a good idea to show her Mercian heritage today, as it showed some sort of peace between the lands. Caitrin didn't see that much into it, she just liked the dress.

Lost in her own thoughts, her head jerked upwards as she heard her name being called. Wait, she knew that voice. As she spun around to meet whoever was calling her, her lips broke out into a wide smile. She rushed the few paces forwards to meet Oliver and gave him a short curtsy. "Prince Oliver." She knew the title was not needed for such an old friend, but it was a show of respect for one. She had not been expecting to see him today, he couldn't have been further from her thoughts in truth, but now he was here she was extremely glad. Caitrin had not seen Oliver for years, not since she had left to live with her Uncle. Now that she looked upon her old friend she could see the hints of maturity in his stance and looks. He still seemed like the same Oliver she had once known very well. "How are you? It had been too long has it not?"

[Oliver Strathmore of Mercia]

When she curtsied, he obliged her with a bow, and then opened his arms out to her. “Enough with the courtly pleasantries and give me a hug, will you?” Oliver told her with a laugh. How he had missed her. They had never really had a proper farewell before Caitrin had left Mercia, and since then he hadn’t heard much from her save for what little snippets her brother Jeffrey would tell him. For all intents and purposes, Caitrin had become quite like a little sister to him...a little sister that he kissed.

Oliver couldn’t quite help but remember that fond little memory they shared, that secret that they had promised to keep so many years ago now. The sweet and not-so-little kiss they had shared under a tree in their own estate back in Mercia. She was still the budding little lady then at fourteen. Bold and daring, she had challenged him, and he had accepted. That had been one of his fondest memories of her. What made it even more fond and exciting was, it was only between them, and no one else. How he treasured that moment, and wished things now were as carefree as they were back then. Sadly, they all had to grow up, and the shenanigans of the past are best left there, in the past.

Looking at her all pretty and grown up now, Oliver could see that the flighty little girl may still be there albeit somehow tamed or more reined in, perhaps? He couldn’t quite place it, but there was a distinct brightness in her eyes, a glint that hadn’t been there before. Something had happened to her these years other than growing up, and Oliver was very interested to know what it was. “I was bored in there, but I’m not now. Goodness, it’s been almost six years, Cat,” he replied, still loving to call her by her nickname. He hoped she wouldn’t mind though. “What have you been up to here? Why haven't you visited home all this time?” he asked genuinely curious and excited to have seen her after so long.

[Caitrin de Archer]

As Oliver replied to her with a bow, her lips widened into a smile. She half jumped forwards into his arms and threw her arms around his neck. She had missed him so much, and now regretted not visiting home since arriving in Camelot. There was nothing other but friendship woven into their embrace. Perhaps a few years ago it would have meant something more to them, but for now it was just a sign of friendly affection. "Oh I have missed you." She said softly, squeezing him back playfully. It was people like Oliver that she had truly missed from her native Mercian home, there was no replacing friends like him really.

Of course with Oliver came memories of their time together on that singe morning when they had shared a kiss or two. Of course that wasn't the only thing which sprung to mind when she thought of Oliver, but it was one of the most striking memories she had of him. The embrace hadn't led anywhere, and there was no awkwardness between the pair of them so everything had worked out for the best really. From first glances Caitrin could not figure if Oliver had changed much since she had last seen him. One of her main regrets was that she had not had a chance to have a proper farewell with him. Her father had been sharp in hurrying her off to Camelot once her Uncle's consent had been gained, so the move had even took Caitrin by shock in some sense.

Six years sounded so much longer to say than it felt. To Caitrin it felt like two minutes since they had been in the trees together. It was odd to think how much she had changed since that time. She nodded and ran a hand through her hair, "It doesn't feel like six years." She said thoughtfully and then turned her attentions to his next comment. She raised one eye brow but her lips curled into a grin, "Well I wouldn't expect you to be bored around me; you weren't all those years ago." She winked at him, but there was no suggestion in her words. No it felt more like teasing and nostalgia. Certainly Caitrin had no interest in Oliver in that way anymore, she had Griff now, and that was all she wanted.

Once again she felt guilty for leaving it so long without ever visiting home, but there was a niggling sense to Caitrin that Mercia no longer felt like her home. She had left most of her old life behind and had embraced the ways of Camelot instead. "Mercia doesn't feel like home anymore." She said thoughtfully, and realised that wouldn't make much sense, "Camelot is my home now, and my father never invited me back to Mercia." There was no reason why he should want to see her again, as they had never got on and her Uncle now had legal rights over her.

What had she been up to? There were so many things she wanted to tell Oliver. She had been through so much in Camelot, not all of it was fondly remembered, but it was mostly happy memories. There was one thing however which was nearly bursting out of her, and she wasn't exactly sure how Oliver would take it. "I have been so busy here in Camelot, but there is one change I wish to share with you." She then raised her hand and showed off the small engagement ring which lay there and beamed up at her old friend, "I'm engaged."

[Oliver Strathmore of Mercia]

As soon as Caitrin jumped into his arms, he spun her around and couldn’t help the laughter bubble up and out of him. No, she was no longer that little lady he had kissed years ago. For one, she had grown a full head taller. While she was all cute then, she’s just breathtaking now. “I missed you. You look gorgeous!” he gushed out his admiration for the fine lady that he was seeing now. He cocked his head to the side at he openly watched and admired her. He liked that she was clad in the colors of Mercia. It looked good on her.

Six years. How she has changed. He wasn’t sure if he could say the same for himself. He was still the playful charmer that everybody knew him to be, but he had more responsibilities now. His father had started entrusting some matters of the kingdom to him and his brother, and Oliver was stepping up to the plate. He still goes out on hunts like before, but not as often anymore. Mercia comes before everything else now.

"Well I wouldn't expect you to be bored around me; you weren't all those years ago."

Trust her to bring that moment back up. Oliver didn’t mind. It had been a thing of the past, and he knew both of them can now easily look back at it as a fond memory of their teenage years. Everything playful, nothing serious. Oliver knew she was teasing him, and he let out an easy laugh as he remembered that time. “You were devious. You forced me into having ‘fun’ with you. Not that I was complaining,” he teased her back with a wink. Caitrin did no forcing whatsoever, and he was all too willing a participant that time himself.

Oliver’s brows furrowed in concern when she told him Mercia doesn’t feel like home for her anymore. He understood that. Her father had sent her away, and while Oliver didn’t know much details about her leaving, he surmised that had somehow affected her relationships back home. “If given the chance, would you go back? Even for just a quick visit?” he asked as he reached out and gave her arm a gentle squeeze. She still had family there, family he knew who still cared for her.

When she hinted on a change, Oliver leaned closer, way too eager to know what it was. Then she held up her hand and showed a silver ring with a sparkling blue sapphire sitting on top of it. It was beautiful. “Well, well, well, look who’s growing up way too fast,” he teased as he looked at the ring more closely. It was certainly finely crafted, whoever stole her heart must be some very well-endowed noble. “Wow! Congratulations! Who is the unlucky---I mean lucky man?” he asked with a wink. He couldn’t quite believe that little Cat was already spoken for. Well, it didn’t really surprise him. She’s a fine woman, and any man would be an idiot to let her go.

[Caitrin de Archer]

Caitrin's smile was as wide as it could possibly be as Oliver swung her round in their embrace. She clung onto him and matched his laughter, and in those moments she felt like the carefree girl she had once been all those years ago. She noticed that she was a lot taller than she had been last time she had embraced Oliver. Last time she had had to lean significantly upwards, this time it was less awkward and she met his eye line with ease. Her smile only continued as he told her that he had missed her as well. Of course Caitrin would never let up the opportunity to be complimented on her appearance. She stepped back from Oliver and completed a small twirl to show herself off entirely, laughter bubbling from her lips. She still couldn't believe he was here; in Camelot! "Ah but do you think that merely as I am dressed in the colours of Mercia?" She challenged with a gentle tease. Blue had always been a favourite colour of hers, it showed her Mercian heritage and set her apart from the other women of the court.

Oh how much had changed in six years? There was so much Caitrin wanted to know but she didn't really know where to start. There was everything to ask really. Did Oliver now have some responsibility over the Kingdom? And how was Mercia prospering on the whole. Aside from the incident with the Poisoned cup or something like that all those years ago, Caitrin had remained rather ignorant of the going ons with Mercia. These questions could perhaps wait, as there were more pressing things to think of; mainly that one of her oldest friends was here beside her.

His comments caused Caitrin to let out a small laugh as she folded her arms and raised her eye brows. "You were all to easy to force." She pointed out in a jesting way, they both knew that they had both been as bad as the other, but that was in the past now. Caitrin was a different person to the one who had teased and toyed with her brother's best friend. Perhaps Oliver was greatly changed as well.

The topic of her previous Mercian home was always a touchy one. To be honest, when Caitrin had been sent on the road to Camelot she had never supposed that she would ever return to the land of her childhood. She had been in Camelot for years now, but it felt like much longer, she knew the people and she was good friends with the newly crowned King. She softly squeezed Oliver's hand back and pressed her lips together, "I would return yes, but only for a visit." She replied thoughtfully, "I do miss Mercia sometimes, but I can only see myself living in Camelot now." She missed the freedom of practicing her magic, she missed the rolling hills and the countryside and of course she missed some of the people. "Do you see much of my family?" She then asked softly. Her father's involvement in her life for the last five of six years had been through mere letters as clearly visiting her in person was too much effort for his youngest daughter.

As Oliver leaned in eagerly to hear her news, she hoped that her little revelation would not prove a disappointment. Too often engagements were seen as women's talk, but Oliver was her friend, so he should be interested. She beamed as he congratulated her and examined the ring. Even that too was symbolic of her Mercian heritage. Caitrin playfully slapped Oliver's arm with the back of her hand as he slipped up with his words. She then just moved to let out a wide smile as she looked down at the ring on her finger and then back to Oliver, "His name is Griff Aubert. But no he is not that rich, but we are happy together." She confirmed and let out a small laugh back at Oliver, "It's funny, six years ago I was quite set on never marrying. Yet here I am."

[Oliver Strathmore of Mercia]

"Ah but do you think that merely as I am dressed in the colours of Mercia?"

“You got me there. I had to say, you are making your Mercian prince mighty proud,” he replied playfully. Caitrin had indeed bloomed fully now, a flower that had finally opened up herself to the sun, for the world to see. It was a pity for Mercia to have lost the opportunity to have her lovely presence grace their courts. He would have to remedy that. As she twirled in her dress for him, he couldn’t quite get rid of the nagging regret at the back of his head that he had missed quite a lot of her growing up this way. No, it wasn’t that he felt he was missing out on having his hands on the lady that she had become now. It was more of the brotherly kind.

Their kiss surprisingly had that effect on him. Instead of taking him towards the direction of an ardent suitor, he had turned into an overly protected brother. She was the sweetest girl he had ever known, albeit a little too bold for her own good, and he wanted nothing but the best for her. "You were all to easy to force." Oliver laughed. “Tell me, what would you have done had I pushed you away? Would you throw a rock at me? Or even shot me with your arrows?” Funny, but somehow, talking about their past didn’t sounded awkward at all. Only goes to show how much both of them had moved on and matured since then.

The look on her face at the mention of going back to Mercia spoke volumes to Oliver. It was not in him to pry but he had surmised just as much from his talks with Jeffrey. Caitrin was not too happy with his father’s decision to send her away, and yet she had to make do with it. She had learned to adapt to her new life here in Camelot. Judging from what he was seeing now, she seemed to have adapted quite well. “Only Jeffrey once in a while. He misses you dearly.” At least Oliver was glad that Caitrin was still open to going back to Mercia even for just a visit.

When she told him about his intended, Oliver couldn’t help but notice how her eyes had lit up. “If he ever does one thing to hurt you, I’ll have his head,” Oliver told her half teasing and half meaning it. But seeing as she was clearly very happy, there was nothing for him or her to worry about. Who would have thought Caitrin would beat him in the marriage department? He had thought her to be a tad too flighty to settle down too soon. Well, if it’s love, then it’s love. He wondered when that would happen to him, to find the right woman for him. “I am very happy for you, Cat. I hope your happiness will rub off on me and help me find the woman of my dreams as well,” he told her with a sincere smile, and then pulled her closer for another embrace, this time warmer and more heartfelt.

Then an idea clicked into his head. “I would love to meet Griff. Don’t worry, I won’t be putting him to a test or anything like that,” he chuckled. “Actually, I would like to invite both of you to Mercia. I would gladly throw a pre-wedding party for my dearest friend and honorary little sister.” He hoped she wouldn’t say no. It would mean a lot to him and her family to see her home again. Maybe they can repair whatever ties had been broken when she left, start anew, just like she was starting anew now with Griff.

[Caitrin de Archer]

Caitrin smoothed her dress with her hands, she wanted to make her old friend proud of her in a way. She knew physically she was quite a different woman to the one he had once kissed. She was now a woman in every sense of the word, she was no longer new to the world, no in fact she had been out in society since coming to Camelot. Whereas she had been bold and uncaring in Mercia, she was now more refined, and showed hints of a somewhat reigned in, but still flirtatious woman. There was no point in making a show of her flirts and teases any longer, she had her future husband and she was content with that. "Then I am content." She concluded happily, though some in Camelot sometimes forgot she was in fact from Mercia, Caitrin could never abandon that part of her life.

The kiss that she had shared with Oliver all those years ago had probably sparked her rather liberal attitude where men were concerned. Before she had met Griff, she hadn't been interested in settling down or tying herself to one man. No, she hadn't wanted to limit herself to just one man. Oliver's words let out a short laugh to her lips and she cocked her hip out to him, a questioning look brimming across her face, "Are you suggesting that there was ever a possibility you would have pushed me away?" She grinned, she knew Oliver liked the women a bit too much to ever contemplate anything like that. He probably hadn't changed in that respect. "But I believe if you had, then an arrow would have been my choice; you remember what a good shot I have?"

Although Caitrin had been angry at first with her father for sending her away in such haste, when in her eyes she had done nothing wrong, she had settled in Camelot quite well. Her Uncle had showed her nothing but kindness, and had taught her how to reign in her temper, and use words rather than force to get her own way. He had been a great tutor in how to play the men of the court to her own tune, of course he wanted an advantageous marriage, but it had never been as important to him as it had been to her father. Now Caitrin wanted to stay in Camelot, under the rule of her close friend; Arthur, and with her Uncle and Griff. She had found an unlikely hodgepodge family here in Camelot, and she could honestly not be happier. Caitrin pressed her lips together as Oliver insisted that Jeffrey missed her, "He has not visited me since I moved to Camelot." She pointed out, and although she had not visited either, wasn't it more expected for men to visit women rather than the other way around? Jeffrey had sent her the odd letter but that was about it, so it was right she was a bit skeptical about Oliver's information.

Caitrin broke out into a smile as Oliver threatened to have Griff's head if he ever hurt her. Some of her friends here in Camelot had had the same reaction. Although Caitrin was sure that Griff would not hurt her, it was nice to know there were friends that were so concerned about her welfare. It reminded Caitrin how lucky she was to have such friends. "I am sure he will not hurt me, but rest assured you will be one of the first to know if he does." She mockly promised as she knew he was but jesting as well.

Once again as he opened his arms to her she half threw herself into his embrace and held him there tightly. It was a much more tender hug than their earlier one. It of course wasn't anything but an embrace between friends and it reminded Caitrin once again of just how much she had missed Oliver. They had missed so much time together; almost six years. Perhaps now was the chance to change that and make amends in some way. She drew back out of the embrace and grinned up at him, "Then we shall have to find you a Lady to indeed tame your heart." She teased softly, that task was probably harder than it sounded as it was Oliver who was involved.

She was still quite close to Oliver as he spoke again and she nodded as he said he wanted to meet Griff. Of course they would have to meet. Oliver was one of her oldest friends, so it was right that he and Griff should at least meet each other once. She was about to voice this but then Oliver spoke again and Caitrin's eyes opened in shock somewhat. She hadn't expected such an invitation from Oliver, though she wasn't sure why she hadn't been expecting it. If she had still been living in Mercia he probably would have done the same.

Of course Caitrin could not say no, she was already quite excited in a way about showing Griff her native homeland. Of course most of her family would be there as well, and although that caused some conflict in Caitrin's thoughts, she would not deny herself Oliver's company on their account. "We would be honoured to come to Mercia for such an occasion." She was beaming, she felt truly humbled that her friend would want to celebrate her engagement in such a way, "So long as you are sure it is not too much trouble?" Ah, that was a sign of her maturity already, she did not want to put Oliver on the spot in arranging some sort of celebration for herself and Griff. "Perhaps I could visit my family while I am in Mercia." She then said thoughtfully as she toyed with the sleeve of her dress. Although she knew her sisters were already happily married, her brothers were a bit more complicated than that and they would certainly be knocking around from time to time, as would her father.

Notes: Even I'm not sure how it got to that length O.o

[Oliver Strathmore of Mercia]

“You were, after all, my bestfriend’s little sister,” he replied in his defense. It had occurred to him at that time that he was kissing with Jeffrey’s sister, and had Jeffrey know, his bestfriend would have probably estranged him for good. Jeffrey knew all too well Oliver’s attitude towards women. The prince knew though that he could never have played with Caitrin’s feelings by taking advantage of her or hurting her in any way. He let out a mock shudder when she told him she would have shot him with her arrows. “Good thing I didn’t push you away then, huh?” he told her with a wink. She was a very promising archer then. He wondered if she still practiced archery. It would be totally grand if she still does. “How’s your shooting? We need to do some target practice again. We never did get to finish the last one,” he said a teasing note in his voice.

Caitrin caught her there. It wasn’t much as he didn’t care, he just didn’t think that meddling into other family’s problems were any of his business. That is until it became a matter of life and death, then he may have to take up his title as prince of Mercia to help settle disputes. “I’m sorry I never did pry it out of Jeffrey. I thought it was a very private family issue and it wasn’t in my place to interfere,” Oliver admitted to Caitrin when she told that Jeffrey had never visited her all these years. But seeing as how troubled Caitrin was about it now that he brought it up, perhaps it wouldn’t hurt to let her pour it out. “You can tell me, Cat. More than anything, I’m your friend. You know I’d do anything to take that frown away from your lovely face.”

"Then we shall have to find you a Lady to indeed tame your heart."

“You promise? That would be no easy task. She would have to be a very strong and stubborn woman to be able to tame my wild heart,” he replied with a hearty chuckle. It turned into a wistful smile when she remembered meeting that one strong and stubborn woman a year ago, in the heart of the Forests of Balor. He wondered where she was now. Could she still be in Albion? Or has she went back home to her own country? For a day or two there, she had tamed his wild heart. The minute they parted ways, it took a while for him to recover from the loss that he had taken to a tad too much daydreaming. While the nomad woman was now part of his past, the memories of that time well spent will always stay with him. “And to win my father’s nod. Most women I’m attracted to so far had been nomads. Serves me right for wandering far too much in the jungles.”

Oliver was definitely looking forward to meeting the man who had captured Lady Caitrin de Archer’s heart. He must have been a truly remarkable man to have won her affection. So such was his happiness when she accepted his invitation to visit Mercia. “The honor and pleasure is all mine,” Oliver replied with a smile and then scoffed at her obvious concern. “I would go through all the trouble for you, Cat. But trust me, it is not. You know how my mother loves parties. She would be happy to see you again as well.” Oliver was looking forward to it himself.

OOC: I love it still!

[Caitrin de Archer]

It was a near miracle really that what had come to pass between Oliver and Caitrin had remained a secret for all these years. At first Caitrin had thought them to be discovered when her father and brother returned back from their business, but luckily they had not suspected a thing. Perhaps they figured that Caitrin saw Oliver as nothing but an older brother. Well, that was certainly true now, but back then she had quite the crush on him, and he had been more than willing. Of course this was all in the past, but it was nice to look back on it fondly. She nodded quite eagerly at his suggestion of some target practice. "Well it was not my fault you found yourself so distracted." She teased softly and winked at him, "But I would be more than happy to shoot with you again. My Uncle allows me to practice archery on his estate quite regularly, you shall have to join me before you go back to Mercia." It of course was not the done thing for a woman to be trained in any sort of combat, but archery was one of Caitrin's great loves.

Although Oliver was one of Jeffrey's best friends, he could not have imagined Jeffrey telling him all the details of the selling of his youngest sisters wardship. After all, it had been done rather in haste as their father had really had enough of his youngest daughters ways. As she had refused to marry a man of her fathers choice, the alternative had been to live with her Uncle in Camelot and settle herself into a life there instead. She understood that Oliver would not have wanted to interfere with the business of the de Archers. They were quite a private family at best. Her smile faltered slightly as he practically invited her to open up in front of him. For a moment she didn't want to, after all the past should be left in the past. However, it also wasn't fair to leave Oliver in the dark really. "I just felt like I had been forgotten about when my father sent me here, I hardly recieve any news from Mercia." She paused and ran a hand though her hair as she composed herself. "But you must believe me when I say that I am happy here, I really am. I have built my own life here now with my Uncle, my friends here and my fiancee." Caitrin would now not change any of these things for all the world, she wanted Oliver to know that she was truly happy here.

A mischievous smile pursed Caitrin's lips as Oliver made her promise to find a woman to tame his heart. She knew that it would be quite a hard task to find just one woman that would satisfy Oliver's tastes. Of course Caitrin had thought it would be an impossible task to find a man who would tame her own heart, but that had happened, so perhaps there was someone who could tame Oliver's heart after all. There had to be the right woman out there for him somewhere! "Ah, well at least I only had to gain the approval of my Uncle." If she had been seeking permission to marry from her father then it would have been a more difficult task. Her father was very driven by ambitious marriages, but her Uncle was more lax in that department. "There must be some woman who has caught your particular attention...?" She asked with a wink, but now she was quite interested to see if there was a woman who crossed Oliver's thoughts more than others.

Caitrin was strangely excited about the prospect of going back to Mercia, even for such a short stay. No matter how much she insisted that Camelot was now her home, she had grown up in Mercia and her childhood memories were all based there. She was also quite looking forwards to Oliver meeting Griff. After all, she wanted one of her oldest friends and her future husband to get on somewhat. She was sure there would be no issues there anyway. "In that case you need only name the date, and Griff and I will journey with you to Mercia." She smoothed down the front of her dress, now quite inspired with excitement. She felt so honoured that Oliver should think to throw such a feast for hers and Griff's impending marriage. "I shall have to introduce you to Griff as soon as I can. After all, it is his marriage too which will be celebrated in Mercia."

[Oliver Strathmore of Mercia]

Oliver wasn’t going to let her get off that easily from the teasing. The kiss had been as much his doing as it was hers. Most importantly, she started it. Or was it him who kissed her first? “Who wouldn’t be? Wouldn’t you bite if anyone dangled a carrot in front of you?” he retorted, his eyes still glinting with obvious amusement about their fun little 'shenanigan' years ago. They hadn’t exactly talked about the kiss and everything surrounding it immediately after it happened. As soon as Caitrin’s father and brother arrived and he was invited to dinner at the de Archer estate, both him and Cait had acted as if nothing of the sort had transpired. Funny how they’ve never really been given another moment to talk about it. Perhaps fate has its way of letting things work out this way. Had they been given the opportunity to talk about the kiss years ago, it would probably be full of awkwardness and maybe even more kisses. It wouldn’t be quite as carefree and fun as it was now.

“I’m sorry to hear about the rift you have with your family back in Mercia, but I am glad Camelot has given you something to be happy about despite everything,” he told her, his face serious and thoughtful. While he didn’t wish it for anybody especially to any of his friends, Oliver truly understood Caitrin’s feelings towards her family. He didn’t know what he would have done if he were in her place being separated from them like that, and with not as much communication. He couldn't blame her if she'd think they had all but forgotten her. As for himself, his father do not really approve of his rebellious ways. Had he not turned around and started acting like a responsible prince as he should be, his father would have probably put his foot down and banished him. Lord Bayard wasn’t far from doing such, even to his own kin. Oliver wouldn't be surprised. “And I think it’s all for the best. I can’t have a little girl chasing me around Mercia asking to be kissed every minute,” he teased, a twinkle in his eyes, hoping to lighten up the moment as he moved and started leading Caitrin into a little walk through the courtyard.

If he were to have it his way, Oliver would like to postpone getting married for as long as he possibly could. His father had started pressuring his brother Edmund, who was just as stubborn as Oliver was. Lord Bayard was unfortunate to have sons who prefer the thrill of a romantic chase over the prospect of being tied down. Since Edmund and Oliver were practically of the same age, with just a year between them, Edmund had made him promise to start looking as well. Oliver, who look up to his big brother, was gullible enough to swear on it. “You’re lucky to have an uncle like that,” he said suddenly wishing he had Caitrin’s life as well.

"There must be some woman who has caught your particular attention...?"

Oliver smiled at that. Yes, there was, but his father would have a fit if he had brought her home in all her grubby and grimy nomad glory. His look turned wistful again as he tried imagining introducing Yassia, that nomad woman, to his father. He would probably be punished or banished for mocking the kingdom like that. Or as haughty as the royalty usually goes, they’d accuse the woman of using magic or love potions for him to fall for her. Not that Oliver would mind getting ensorcelled by Yassia. He knew he already was enchanted by her. “Two, actually. One was a gypsy from my childhood, but I realized I was more attracted to her freedom than to her. I broke her heart and it pained me to do so. Then I met this pretty nomad woman from another country. She was like a…” Oliver stopped as the image of Yassia came into his head and a smile lit up his face. “…a beautiful flower. Exotic. Rare. I wanted her like I never wanted anyone before. But after what happened with the gypsy, I couldn’t allow myself to fall anymore. Nothing good would ever come out of it. Not while Bayard is still my father.” That had been refreshing. Oliver had never really told anyone about these women who had made quite a lasting impact in his life. Sure, his friends were there and had seen how he interacted with Yassia at least, but they only know that much. Oliver didn’t tell them anything more. It took Caitrin to pry it out of him.

“We are leaving the day after tomorrow. It would be nice if you can travel with us, but I wouldn’t impose if it’s too soon for you and for Griff.” Oliver knew it was a rather short notice, but having Caitrin and her husband-to-be would be a welcome respite in an otherwise boring trek back to Mercia. Knowing Caitrin, Oliver was somehow confident that he and Griff might get along well. He was determined to make a friend out of the man who had captured his friend’s heart. “Where is he anyway?” Oliver asked curiously. “I hope he doesn’t mind if I take you strolling around Camelot for a bit.” Then curiosity got the better of Oliver. He had to know more about him. “Tell me about Griff. How you two met, how he wooed you…all the juicy details.” He was definitely interested.

[Caitrin de Archer]

Ah now that was true, and in fairness Oliver’s little piece of imagery could be easily applied to either himself or Caitrin. Neither had resisted the others advances and neither had shown any signs of stopping anytime soon. “I did bite,” She teased softly and raised her eye brows at him, “And so did you.” Her words were jesting, and were not meant in any sort of harshness or rebuke. No, the kiss was one of her fondest memories of Oliver had been that kiss, not because it meant anything intimate to her, but it had been her first kiss. The first kiss was always special after all was it not? It was quite fun to casually be speaking of these things with Oliver, it showed how different they both were now really; how much had changed between them. Of course it showed that they were nothing but old friends, there had never really been the potential for the kiss to flower up to anything else. They had just been out for a quick kiss and nothing more anyway.

Caitrin too could only feel regret at the fact her family had grown so far apart. It had been a long time coming, and her being sent away had just cemented the fact. She nodded in appreciation at his latter words. She didn’t want him to worry about her happiness while she was in Camelot. Truly the only time she would be unhappy would be if she was told she could no longer live here.

Caitrin appreciated Oliver’s little jest and she let out a short laugh. “Well I’m sure you can find women to run after you in Camelot to make up for it.” She winked at him, she was not referring to herself of course. Knowing Oliver he would already have had his eyes on particular ladies of the court. It was his way after all. “And you forget, I am not a little girl anymore.” She rebuked him softly and gestured her hands towards herself, as if showing herself off. No, when Oliver had last known her she was a young girl on the edge of womanhood. Now her feet were firmly rooted in womanhood, and she was quite settled in that fact. As they began a gentle walk Caitrin nudged Oliver’s arm with her own, “Will you let me take your arm as a gesture of friendship, or are you afraid to let me take it after what happened last time?” She teased and extended her arm towards him. They were friends; there was nothing in linking while they took a small stroll around the courtyard.

Of course Caitrin didn’t often observe that she was incredibly lucky to have her Uncle Rouland in the attitude he was in. Rouland took great fun in teasing Griff, and he would probably make more of a habit of it when he and Caitrin were wed, but it was a small price to pay really. Caitrin was sure as long as they kept her Uncle’s wine stores full he would not be too much of a problem. “I know.” She said softly. If she was still living with her father she probably would have been sent off to some loveless marriage and already have children running round her feet. Though she did want children, she wanted them with a man she loved, rather than seeing childbearing as a womanly duty.

Caitrin had never asked of any true loves of Oliver’s when she had lived in Mercia. As she listened to him she felt sorry for him straight away, here she was merely ringing off the ways in which her life had improved and here he was without a woman he could truly love by his side. She wished of course that his father could be more lenient with Oliver’s choice in a bride, but as he was royalty she knew it could not be. She smiled softly, but quite sadly, back up at Oliver. “You never know; miracles can happen.” Caitrin replied rather brightly, trying to lift Oliver’s mood somewhat, “I am sure you will find love one day, even with your father breathing down your neck.”

The day after tomorrow? Gosh that was short notice! As they were staying the castle that evening and returning to her Uncle’s estate in the morning it would leave only one day to prepare enough for a short trip. It was quite a handful, but Caitrin was confident that it would all be fine. It made more sense for them to all travel as a group anyway. “That will be fine, we shall join you on the road to Mercia then the day after tomorrow.” She told him brightly. Of course she hadn’t asked Griff if he was alright with this yet, but she couldn’t see it being a problem; it shouldn’t be a problem. It wasn’t like they had anything else to do was it?

Caitrin shrugged softly at Oliver’s question, “I think he is still in the Great Hall; I came outside to catch some air, it was a bit too warm in there for me.” She admitted but then grinned at Oliver’s latter words, “Oh I am sure he will be incredibly jealous and will want to cut you down on the spot.” She made a face at Oliver which accompanied her jest quite nicely, “You are an old friend, it is not his business to mind or not.” An old friend she had kissed… but details, details.

She was almost inclined to blush as Oliver began to try and pry more information about Griff out of her. In truth she wasn’t sure how to answer him. How could you make hers and Griff’s first meeting sound in any way half decent? She pressed her lips together and managed some bubbled laughter as she put her hand through her hair. “At first he just annoyed me, I just wanted him to leave me alone.” She admitted with complete amusement, “But of course he did not, and slowly I just…” She trailed off, but her face was alit; her eyes sparkling. “I don’t know, it was like something had changed. I suddenly didn’t want him to leave anymore, and I haven’t since.” That pretty much summed up hers and Griff’s relationship in the most broad of terms, “It was quite an unusual courtship, but would you expect anything other than that from me Oliver?”

[Oliver Strathmore of Mercia]

“I did!” Oliver laughed admitting that he had indeed bitten the carrot, and was totally amused that Caitrin was quick to admit she did either. ”It was a beautiful day for a first kiss, was it not?” he added with a smile, remembering that day with fondness. Caitrin had not outrightly said it, but Oliver felt that it was indeed her first kiss. They had been younger then, her more than him. Oliver was still every bit the happy-go-lucky prince who lived for nothing but the dangers of the hunt and the thrill of clandestine kisses like the one he had shared with Caitrin. That had all been in the past. A year or so ago, he had made a vow to turn his life around. No, he hadn’t exactly made a total turn and turned his back on all the fun. He had just become more responsible now, taking his duties and responsibilities as second prince of Mercia with the maturity that was expected of him. Of course, he still knew how to have fun. He had promised that much to that nomad woman he had met a year ago.

Quite surprisingly, Oliver felt color rise up his cheeks when Caitrin told him he can find other women to run after him after she had gone. He’s had his fair share, but the nobles of Mercia were not exactly his type. He just didn’t see anything in them to warrant a flirtation or two. Edmund was more popular among the noble ladies. Oliver had his sights set outside the city walls, to the exciting and dangerous world out there. “No, you are certainly not a little girl anymore, Cat,” he reaffirmed her statement. A man need not look at her twice to see the difference between then and now. Back then, she was still in the early stages of womanhood, her features and qualities only just beginning to blossom. But now, today, Caitrin was every inch a woman, in the truest sense of the word. When she nudged him, Oliver smiled and then held his arm out for her to take. “Somehow, I have this crazy image of Griff looking as big and tall as that huge knight in Arthur’s employ. I’m not afraid, but I’m not that foolish to cross a giant,” he replied teasingly as he gently tapped the hand that was now resting at the crook of his elbow.

Despite her transition into womanhood, Caitrin was still quite outspoken and bold with her words. In fact, she was even more confident in them. And Oliver appreciated it more than anything. He gave her a small smile at her attempt to lift his mood up. “I sure hope so. Edmund made me promise. He will not marry until I have as well. The bloke’s thinking of a double royal wedding of sorts. He’s crazy I tell you, dragging me into his own royal marriage responsibilities,” Oliver expressed with a chuckle. “There’s no way that’s going to happen. I will never marry for convenience, that’s for sure. Despite my flighty flirty ways, I do believe in love.” Truth be told, it wasn’t Edmund that Oliver was apprehensive about. It was Lord Bayard, his father. The man had survived decades and decades of war and hostilities with Camelot and other neighbouring kingdoms. Oliver knew the king can easily handle a simple matter as the marriage of his heir. It was just unfortunate for Oliver that the heir was too stubborn to drag his younger brother into the fray. Their father would kill them both if they don’t comply in time.

“Thank you, Cat. I’ll make sure a carriage is made available especially for you and Griff,” he replied just as brightly. He was truly glad she had accepted the invitation. It will surely get the king and queen conveniently distracted for the time being as they return to Mercia, the king most especially. Oliver wouldn’t mind seeing through the preparations. It was the least he could do for her, for a dear friend whom he hadn’t seen for long. There was no other way to celebrate a reunion of sorts than by a party. And it was just fortunate that she was getting married as well. The more reasons there are to a celebration, the grander and more welcomed it is going to be.

Oliver couldn’t resist to playfully roll his eyes as she made a face at him and told him what Griff would do. “I intend to make a friend out of Griff. Maybe I will also organize a bachelor party of sorts when we get to Mercia. There will be drinking and drinking and women...and more drinking,” he teased, again that impish smirk prominent on his face.

She was truly taken by her man, and Oliver wondered if he had the same effect on a woman before. Most of them probably dismissed him after the flirtation, never really thinking more of him than just a short time dalliance, nothing serious. He wondered what it would feel like to have the permanent affections of a lady or any woman for that matter. He listened attentively as Caitrin told him about Griff, how he used to annoy her until she didn’t want him to leave anymore. “I can tell that he’s just as enamoured by you as you are of him. He never gave up on you which means he’s quite serious about you. And there’s the proof,” Oliver said softly gesturing to the sapphire ring on her fingers. “I expected nothing less from you, Cat. I am just so happy for you right now. To see you like this, it brings joy to my heart.”

[Caitrin de Archer]

Caitrin pulled a face at Oliver as he reminded her that it had of course been her first kiss. "You didn't know it was my first kiss at the time." She pressed her lips together into a smile, she had implied that it had been her first kiss but nothing more. After all, she hadn't wanted him to know that she had been so inexperienced. She hadn't felt as inexperienced as she thought she would when Oliver had kissed her, no it had felt natural which had felt insane. Although she felt nothing intimate towards Oliver now, back then she had been a young girl with a crush and one which had been realised indefinatly. Of course now Caitrin was completely different, she was happily engaged and she wouldn't change that for the world. Back in her fathers estate in Mercia the thought of spending her life with just one man would have sickened her, but now it just felt right. She had Griff now; nothing else mattered.

Caitrin was quite amused that she drew colour to Oliver's cheeks. She remembered that back in Mercia she had caused him to be quite flustered as well. It seemed to be a talent which she had with men, even if it was unintentional. However, she did beam with pride at his acknowledgement that she was no longer the little girl he had once known. She was truly in the height of her womanhood, and had often been complimented in such a way. It was of course important to Caitrin to hear such delicate compliments from such a close friend, as she knew that he did not say such things just for the sake of it. That really meant something to Caitrin.

However, Oliver's later words about Griff being some sort of giant knight made Caitrin collapse into laughter. She wasn't even sure if Griff could handle a sword, let alone take on Oliver. Her laughter was probably not the reaction that Oliver was expecting, but Griff was probably better suited to charming women than fighting men. It was his way. "I do not think you have to worry yourself about Griff, he is certainly no knight, nor a giant." She knew Oliver was only jesting, but she was still determined to set him right. She linked her hand softly though his arm and smiled up at him.

It did not surprise Caitrin that Edmund was trying to have some sort of double wedding. It was a way of putting off the Royal duty of marriage for as long as possible in Caitrin's eyes. She had never supposed Oliver to be the marrying type, but she supposed he would have to eventually. It was quite sweet to hear that Oliver did truly believe in love. There was not as much of that these days as Caitrin would have liked. Of course Caitrin was marrying for love, but she was one of the lucky ones. "I am sure you will find love one day Oliver, there has to be a woman who will capture your heart." Her wistful words were accompanied almost by a skip as she was almost caught up in the moment. Yes she was sure Oliver would find love one day, and that he was so open to the topic of love showed his maturity. Perhaps Oliver had changed somewhat in her absence.

She nodded brightly as Oliver said that he would make sure the carriage would be made ready for them. Though Caitrin always preferred to ride on horseback, Mercia was quite a way away to go all the way on a horse. Therefore the carriage would be a welcomed alternative. Plus, the conversation would surely make the time merely fly by. "Then we shall ensure we are here promptly when you intend to set off."

Caitrin wasn't exactly sure whether Oliver wanting to make a friend of Griff was a good thing or not. Caitrin dreaded to think what form a bachelors party would take, especially if Oliver was organising it. "As long as there are not too many women involved in your plans then I am satisfied. After all, he is soon to be married." She winked back up at Oliver as they continued their walk.

The spark she knew always appeared when she spoke of Griff must have shone through, as Oliver was defiantly picking up on it. She blushed slightly, and grinned softly up at Oliver and then looked back down to the engagement ring on her slender finger. She had never really thought about Griff's side of the conquest, but Griff certainly hadn't given up on Caitrin, and it was clear that they both did love each other dearly. Well they were going to spend the rest of their lives together, which was an odd thought, but Caitrin was looking forwards to married life. Though it would feel odd to know that she was no longer of the de Archer clan, and that in fact she would go by the name of Aubert. "I love him." She said softly and put her spare hand through her hair almost nervously. She never really admitted that fact to anyone, even though everyone knew it was true. "I can't help myself, I just love him and I know that I always will." She felt quite comfortable telling Oliver this as he was such an old friend, "And I hope that you will make a friend of him. Oh I shall have to introduce you to him later on, as then you can form your own opinions of him rather than listening to me ramble on."