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Post by Guinevère on Jun 19, 2010 22:11:57 GMT -5
'The fires are out!'
'--more and more men dead--' 'Camelot is in ruins!'
ஜ ஜ ஜ ஜ ஜ ஜ ஜ ஜ ஜ ஜ ஜ ஜ
Guinevère was working in the make-shift medical bay when Gaius came to her side and ordered to to get some rest. Guinevère had been working for hours and her whole body hurt from over use. Her clothing was dirty, and her face had smudges of dirt and soot all over it; and her hands . . . .
Guinevère had tired to protest but also knew she was no good to them if she could not move, so she went home, and went straight to bed. She went right to sleep, which shocked her. She had thought she would lie awake for hours worried for Morgana, and wondering if Arthur had found her yet. If she was safe . . . . if he was safe.
She awoke hours later, and noticed it wasn't very dark. She wasn't sure if it was early morning, or late evening however as she had lost her since of time. Gwen picked up her bucket and started walking to the well for some water so she might heat it and bathe before going back to help some more. Carrying the bucket hurt her arms were she was over working her self, but who in the city wasn't at the moment?
She was pumping the water at the well when she heard hooves of horses approaching. She didn't look up as it wasn't something rare here, people traveled on horse back almost everywhere.
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Post by Arthur Pendragon on Jun 20, 2010 14:26:21 GMT -5
Their mission had been unsuccessful. Arthur felt helpless, and he hated himself for being a failure. He failed at protecting Morgana, he failed at keeping her safe, he failed and bringing her safely back home. He knew his father was relying on him to do so, and Gwen . . . he knew that Gwen must be missing her terribly. And Arthur himself . . . could not even describe how worried he was about his sister and close friend. He had met Lancelot when he commenced his journey, and it had been nearly a day since they were looking. The tip did not lead to anything, so he decided to return home.
In order to show how grateful he was for Lancelot's assistance, he invited him to come back to Camelot with him so that he could get some rest, food, and stay for as long as he liked. That was something that was very difficult for Arthur to offer. Of course he was a fellow night, and someone he owed his life to, but . . . the question of Gwen's reaction to his arrival was burned in Arthur's mind. He could not help but fear that she would leave with him this time, or that he would stay with her.
As if someone had read his mind, there was Gwen. She looked tired. She must have been working tremendously hard to help repair the destruction that overwhelmed the city. He locked his gaze on her, still aware of the fact that Lancelot was right next to him. He stopped his horse. He did not expect Lancelot to do the same. In fact, he managed to break his gaze from Gwen -- as she was not looking at him, perhaps not even aware of their presence -- and motioned for Lancelot to go ahead. They had not seen each other for some time, and he would honor them by giving them a few moments of privacy. Arthur dismounted from his horse, and went to the opposite direction, using every ounce of his strength to do so. He would not be gone for long, for even if Gwen was more excited to see Lancelot, he still cared for her too deeply to simply ignore her.
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Post by Deleted on Jun 20, 2010 23:41:30 GMT -5
In at least some ways, Lancelot had the feeling that he had failed the Prince and Camelot. He had that sinking feeling ..... that pit in the core of his stomach ..... the feeling that he had failed. The help that he had initially been hopeful would be a help had turned out to be a dead end. Finally, they had realized that any further immediate efforts would be fruitless, and they had returned to to Camelot. Well ..... at least Arthur was returning. Lancelot had no standing in Camelot and thought that the prince might be best served if he just went on his way.
Lancelot, given their conversations on Gwen, the future, and other matters, figured that the Prince might even have suggested that Lancelot by-pass Camelot itself. Lancelot was somewhat surprised that the request never materialized itself. In fact, he was downright shocked when the invitation to stay in Camelot passed over Arthur's lip. "Are you sure Arthur ..... prince Arthur? But what will you father say, what will he do?"
Then there was the unspoken question about Gwen, that sort of overrode the invitation. Maybe, he thought to himself, that he could arrive in Camelot without either Uther or Gwen being the wiser. But there she was, as big as life, standing right beside the city gates as they entered them. She seemed to catch sight of them in the gloom right off. However, they were sitting right next to one another, on their horses, so which one was she looking at, exactly? Surprisingly, The Prince's horse halted while Lancelot continued on, and it became quite apparent who she was looking for, even ion her obviously tired state. In fact Arthur motioned him ahead to meet with her. But how and why would Arthur arranging such a thing ..... but her he was motioning him forward to Gwen. Was Arthur at all aware that they had met once before and supped? In any case, Lancelot took the opportunity to meet with her and hold her hands once more.
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Post by Guinevère on Jun 21, 2010 11:36:40 GMT -5
Guinevère pumped the water once last time before stopping. Her arms ached from the work, but the thoughts of being clean over powered her thoughts of aching arms. She lifted the bucket and turned around to see the outline of two men on horses. It was hard to see them with the very faint light behind them. Was it dawn or was it dusk? She still did not know. Carrying the bucket to head to her home, she had to pass by the horses. She noticed one man dismount and begin walking off to the side, but the other stayed there, not really in her path but she would have to pass rather close to him in order to get home an----
As she grew closer to the man on the horse she began to notice more then just the shadowy outline. She began to see his face, and features. Ones she knew very well. With a slight gasp, she dropped the bucket, and almost ran the last few steps to where he sat on his horse. She had not expected to see him here, but it was not an un-pleasant shock. She came to rest on his left side, and placed one of her hands on the horse's neck and the other over her belly which now was churning.
She wondered who he friend was, and why they were here. She could not look away from him to see if she could even see who the other man was. She knew the king would not be pleased to know he was back but with the chose that was Camelot right now it was would very easy for a man to be here and no one take noticed of who he was and why he was here. The dragon had done much damage before Arthur killed it. Seeming to knew she needed to say something, but was unsure where to start she spoke with out thinking. "I am very glad to see you safe."
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Post by Arthur Pendragon on Jun 21, 2010 12:04:45 GMT -5
While Arthur wanted to give them privacy . . . he had few concerns. The main one of course was his jealousy, which he would never admit to anyone. Another being that he did want to see Gwen, and make sure she was alright. A third . . . probably one that he would just use an excuse was that if Uther saw Lancelot wandering around Camelot, he may not be too happy. Arthur would have to explain that to Uther, but in time, because for now, there was too much to do. He put his horse in the stables, getting brief updates from various knights who saw his return. He told them to keep doing the tasks assigned to them. There was far too much work that needed to be done in Camelot, but the concern he felt for Morgana was still rampant.
He walked back to the couple, seeing Gwen's surprise and happiness to see that Lancelot was back. "Lancelot, you must be tired from the journey. If you require anything, do let me know. I can help you settle in a room, if you would like so that you can get some rest and food." He may not like the relationship he had with Gwen, but he could not ignore the fact that his fellow knight had once saved his life, and now, helped him in the search for Morgana. Arthur just hoped that Lancelot did not stay with Gwen. He then turned his attention to her, though tried to remain professional for it was an awkward situation indeed. "Guinevère," he greeted, lowering and raising his head in a short nod. "Is everything alright here?" He asked. Though he felt a little bad for interrupting them, at the same time, it was an important question. He wanted to make sure she was alright, and he wanted to know the situation of the city and how much it had changed in the past day.
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Post by Deleted on Jun 22, 2010 15:59:45 GMT -5
Lancelot watched the woman with the water bucket slowly and with some difficulty walk toward them. He had waited for Arthur to reply to his question about his fathers’s ….. Uther’s ….. reaction to his return to Camelot, and whether this was right for a variety of reasons. Instead, though, Arthur had stopped his horse and dismounted, and for some reason had head off at a right angle …. into the shadows. Lancelot had recognized that it was Gwen as soon as they had passed through the gates. But why was he not meeting her with Lancelot. It was if Arthur …. wanted …. them to have some alone-time. Arthur did know it was Gwen didn’t he? Suddenly Lancelot felt very uncomfortable.
He saw her suddenly seem to recognize him, her eyes wide, and she dropped the bucket … obviously full …. And then there was the slosh of water as all of the water spilled out. She didn’t seem to be paying much attention to the spilled bucket, though. She seemed to be much more concerned with him. She ran up to him in the few feet that existed between the fallen bucket of water and where he was, riding on his black stallion. He pulled up on the reins, bringing Sher-Fore to a stop, trying to prevent Gwen getting run over here in the dark. “So …. are you glad to see me, Gwen? Are you quite well?,” he asked with some concern in his voice, noting the way that she was holding her stomach as she held on to his horse’s neck.
Lancelot looked over in the shadows for a moment, wondering if and when Prince Arthur would have something to say. Finally, though, Gwen spoke up, quite curiously saying how she was glad he was safe. “Yes, Gwen, thank you. I’m glad that you are safe is well. But how is everyone else in Camelot?,” he asked, looking around with some concern. Looking back over in the shadows, he saw that neither the form of Arthur, nor his horse was there any more. Now, where could he have gotten to, he wondered. He didn’t say anything out loud, though, in fear that Gwen might be concerned. Therefore, he took the opportunity to dismount, and take Gwen by the hand, to see and make sure that she really was well.
Momentarily, though, he saw that Arthur had returned, now without his horse. Obviously he had taken the opportunity to get his horse put away in the stables, which, if Lancelot was going to stay, he would have to take care of soon, as well as someplace to stay the night. Arthur had decided not just to be physically present, but spoke as well. “Yes ….. Arthur …. Prince Arthur ….. I should say. I will have to put my horse away in the stables and I will need to find someplace to stay the night …. some food would be good as well. But ….. sire …. I expect you are as tired as I am. I assume that you are going to warn ….. let your father know …. that I have returned?” Within moments, though, Arthur’s attention had shifted to Gwen, but it was unclear whether Arthur was asking about Gwen, or the general situation in Camelot, and Lancelot stepped back, waiting to hear her answer.
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Post by Guinevère on Jun 22, 2010 22:42:37 GMT -5
When he dismounted and took her hand, Gwen held his tightly for a moment. Looking over him to see if he looked well, and was pleased to see he was not majorly injured. She was very glad he was safe. After their last conversation she had feared he might have found that great battle, or helpless villagers to die for. She knew Camelot could use his help right now (and wondered if Uther would accept the help), and thought that might be why he was here. When he spoke again asking about the city Gwen felt her heart sink at the news she must give him. "Not well. I am not sure what stories you might have heard, but we were attacked by a dragon and---"
Guinevère stopped speaking when she heard someone approaching and then Arthur's voice. Here was home, and Safe!!! Her eyes fell over him looking to see if he was hurt anywhere, and noting how tired he was. With his words she gathered he knew Lancelot was here. Had they came together?! Guinevère, gently let go of Lancelot's hand and while they spoke to each other took a few steps to look closer behind Arthur to the stables. She waited there until she was she was sure no one was coming out before turning to look at both men.
They were alone. Which meant Arthur had not found Morgana yet. Guinevère did not want to cry about it right now, nor be the cause for Arthur to feel bad about something out of his control; so she did not ask about the hunt for her friend, and mistress. She knew he would push him self, and punish him self for this.
When Arthur addressed her, by name, asking the same as Lancelot she answered them both. "The fires are out, but many of wounded, and more homeless. Supplies are running low, and there is not enough help. I think with time, we will recover but no one will forget these days."
"Most the castle's rooms are full, however if you need a place to stay, Lancelot you can use my home. I spend most my time helping Gaius in the great hall which is now an infirmary for the moment, and I can stay in Morgana's rooms. Uther will not let anyone touch them, but I am sure I can stay on the cot I have in there for the times I used to stay nights."
"You two must me very tired," She looked down at her bucket and then grabbed it up. "I will get you some water." She looked at Arthur, and dipped her head in a bow before turning to go back to the well, as she had just spilled her water at the sight of Lancelot.
Guinevère could not help but to wonder what this meant for the three of them.
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Post by Arthur Pendragon on Jun 27, 2010 22:23:42 GMT -5
Arthur had not missed their linked hands. He also made no acknowledgment of it. He tried to ignore it, but his mind was screaming with questions about what this meant. Would Lancelot stay? Was this where Arthur's hope for him and Guinevère ended? His thoughts were overwhelmed with far too many concerns, this just being one of them. "I will inform my father of your presence tomorrow." He was not sure how Uther was going to react. He already had a great deal on his mind. He was just as devastated over Morgana's absence . . . Arthur feared it was taking a toll on his mental state, though he would never say such a thing, especially in front of Lancelot.
The report Gwen gave was not a good one, it just further demonstrated how out of order Camelot was, and if he knew his father, he was going to use a lot of his resources to search for his missing ward. "We will gather the homeless tomorrow and try to find out a living arrangement for them." He wished he could offer more, but the dragon had done so much damage; it was going to take time to repair everything . . . if they could in fact repair it all. Just one of the many things Arthur had on his to do list. "And I will get more supplies." He wanted to ask more specific questions, but he would find a better time to do that, then standing around with a former knight and Guinevère.
While Arthur HATED the thought of Lance staying at her house, he was not going to argue. It was up to them . . . and he certainly was not going to command Lancelot to stay in an inn instead. He stayed quiet. And for some reason, when she gave him a short bow, it made him feel worse. As if, the emphasis of their status difference was even greater, right in front of the man that Arthur knew Guinevère cared a great deal for. This situation was all too strange, and uncomfortable. Though the Prince concealed this discomfort and acted casually and professionally. "In that case, perhaps you should help him get settled Guienvere. I will go see how Gaius is managing. Did he need more water?" He wondered, curious as to whether she was at the well for herself or to help him.
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Post by Deleted on Jun 28, 2010 13:16:53 GMT -5
Even in the darkness, which his eyes had adjusted to, he could see that she was looking him over. What he could pick out of her expression in the very dim light was a mixture between happiness and relief. He just wasn’t sure which one made up the greatest emphasis. When she told him the state of things in the city, he knew that it would not please Arthur much, added by the fact that they had been unsuccessful in finding and freeing Morgana. With all of the apparent negatives, Lancelot had no idea how Arthur might approach his father about the return of Lancelot, who was obviously not one of Uther’s favorite people.
Gwen had been just beginning the explanation of what the city had been through with the dragon, which, for the most part, that Arthur had already told him, when she apparently realized that Arthur was there as well. She quickly surveyed the Prince for injuries, happily finding none, as she had with Lancelot. However, now, realizing that they were both there, together, the expression on her face was full of questions. Lancelot sensed that she was uncomfortable holding his hand in the presence of the Prince, just as Lancelot himself was. She seemed to take a few moments to look around, as if to verify that the three of them, at least momentarily were alone.
Lancelot wondered if Gwen had known that Arthur had gone out in search of Morgana in the first place. Obviously, she had had no idea of Lancelot’s role in Arthur’s search, since he had run across him after the Prince had left Camelot. Arthur, though, did not address the issue of Morgana immediately. He was more concerned the state of the city and its inhabitants in the recent past. She gave a general rundown and then gave Arthur some specific information about citizens who were being housed in the castle. It was then that Gwen made the offer of her home as a place for Lancelot to stay.
Not knowing what Uther’s reaction would be to his presence, he felt that that would expose Gwen to unnecessary risk. Lancelot made a quick glance in Arthur’s direction, and he knew from the fleeting look he got in his eyes, that that was not something that he was in favor of, but he knew that Arthur would not voice his displeasure. “I thank you for the offer, Gwen, but I’m afraid that I must turn it down. First, I’m afraid that it might introduce ….. complications ….. that are not needed now. Second, homeless citizens of Camelot should take precedence. I can sleep in the stable with my horse, if needs be. I expect that everyone here must be tires, don’t you, Arthur?”, as he watched her run off for some more water.
Lancelot then heard the Prince indicate that he would tell Uther of Lancelot’s presence the next day. “Do you think that is a wise idea, my Prince? With all of the bad news that he has undoubtedly received so far, is it necessary to burden him with news of my presence?” He listened to the lengthening to-do list that Arthur was putting together. “Where do you want to get those supplies from? You’ll want to beware of who on the outside is allowed to know how dire the situation is. If one of Uther’s enemies would get wind of your weakness they might be tempted to take advantage of the situation.” Lancelot was getting the impression that Arthur was trying to push him away. Perhaps he simply was not comfortable with him being so obvious about his return so soon, Lancelot thought. “Do you want me to remain in hiding, sire, or is there something specific you want me to do, or would it just be best for me to stay away for a while longer?”
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Post by Guinevère on Jun 28, 2010 23:22:40 GMT -5
Guinevère's arms ached as she once again started pumping the well. She watched the two men speak to each other and noticed again how they did not seem shocked or out of place. They had traveled in together. How long had they been traveling companions? How long would they stay before riding out again, for either Morgana or these supplies?
In that case, perhaps you should help him get settled Guienvere. I thank you for the offer, Gwen, but Iâm afraid that I must turn it down. It seemed as if she was going to have to speak to Lancelot alone about such. She rather him stay there, and her in the castle, then him in some chilled stable with smelly horses. She was going to demand he made us of her bed. She did however know not to push the topic with Arthur standing there. She did notice, as well how Arthur (as always) used her full name rather then the nick name. It was something he always did. At first it seemed he did it to annoy her, but she had come to love hearing him say it.
And I will get more supplies. Where do you want to get those supplies from? Youâll want to beware of who on the outside is allowed to know how dire the situation is. If one of Utherâs enemies would get wind of your weakness they might be tempted to take advantage of the situation. Gwen thought Lancelot made a good point and she debated on speaking up with her suggestions for friends of Camelot. Such as King Olaf, who would lead aid. Arthur might have to avoid the daughter, in order to keep peace with the Father but they did not have many friends that would be so willing as him.
Guinevère lifted the nearly full bucket and carried it over to the men, she did not have a cup to offer to them but the water was clean and with the cool air it would not be hot. I will go see how Gaius is managing. Did he need more water? "I am unsure, I went home last night to get a few hours sleep. He might be resting, Merlin would be there however. Maybe. Everyone mainly works until someone else forces them to get some rest. . . . which I might have to do right now. You two must he travel weary and tired. You must get some water and some rest before planning to bring in any supplies, or visiting anyone." Knowing Arthur, and how he would push him self harder and harder she felt the need to add, "You would be no good to Camelot if you do not." Even while she said it, she had trouble looking at either of them for long. Her eyes would meet theirs for a moment before dropping and moving to the other's, only to repeat the actions again.
She knew that she was the cause of any awkwardness between them. She wished it was not so, or that she could ease the damage done.
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Post by Arthur Pendragon on Jun 29, 2010 13:07:56 GMT -5
Arthur listened to Lancelot's words. "It is more wise to tell my father about your presence, rather than have him find out on his own. He will react more angrily towards the latter." Arthur knew his father. He also knew that if Arthur were to bring up Lancelot's presence, it would not be his primary concern. Morgana was. Magic was. "Your presence is not the worst news. He will not overly concern himself with it." Arthur would just have to explain it carefully. And then, his next advice was about supplies. Arthur heard enough about Camelot's pride and vulnerability from his father; he did not need to hear it again. He knew they said it out of caution, but Arthur's pride was not so great that he would let his people suffer.
"The castle for starters. I am not going to let the citizens of Camelot suffer because of our pride. We will protect the kingdom, as we always have. We can not ignore the vicious attack, so even if I have to ride to Cenred, I will do what is necessary for the well being of Camelot." Cenred would be dangerous territory indeed. There was already tension there, but Arthur would do whatever it took to restore the kingdom. Unfortunately, his father was less willing to seek out aid from neighboring kingdoms, which may prove to be a downfall.
Arther did not know how to answer Lancelot's questions. "It is entirely up to you Lancelot." He briefly looked at Guinevère before turning back to him. "If you wish to stay, you can. If you wish to leave, I will not stop you." He could not make decisions for others, not now, not when he already had so much to do, and had no idea where to start.
He was however relieved to hear that Guinevère had gotten some rest. Arthur could not rest; not while his people were suffering. "I am fine." He did not know what else to say. He could not stand around here, doing nothing. "Help Lancelot get settled if he wishes to say," he said, not as a command or order. "I am going to check and see how Gaius and Merlin are getting along," he said as he went to take the bucket of water from Gwen. "Thank you."
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Post by Deleted on Jun 30, 2010 10:30:56 GMT -5
Lancelot could not get over how awkward it was, the three of them standing there, one fully noble, one a knight but not an English one by birth, and a serving girl who had been a blacksmith’s daughter and a seamstress. They were all friends, at least marginally, at least as much as you could be with a Prince and Lord, and here he was still calling her by her full name and not Gwen. He shook his head at the strangeness of it all. Here was Gwen offering him her place to sleep over, Arthur seeming to encourage it, but Lancelot knowing it was the last place that Arthur wanted him.
Finally, Arthur seemed to want to appear detached from the whole thing by telling him he didn’t care if he stayed or left. It was all so infuriating. “Ah well, Arthur, if that’s the case, I suppose I’m not needed here then. I’ll head back into the Balor Forest and the hills and re-commence the search for Morgana, while you concentrate on the homeless, the injured, and the supplies. The well-being of the kingdom should be your first priority. Besides, it would remove the need for you to explain my presence to your father.”
Arthur was going to do what Arthur wanted to do. Of course he would probably have to argue with Uther over who would be contacted and how. That was a given. Lancelot would just be another member of the convoy wherever it might be sent. He would only be of use if they requested help from as far away as Wessex. He had no doubt that the Earl of Huntingdon would come to their aid, if it was formally requested. However, that request would be flag that Camelot and Albion were weakened, to any potential adversaries in-between. It would be a tough call, but one that Uther and Arthur would have to make together. Lancelot knew that that was their responsibility, not his.
Lancelot took the water that was offered. He did not know if Arthur would take the strong hint that he needed a bit of rest before he dove back into the crisis. If Arthur did not rest, Lancelot would not either. However, Lancelot knew that Arthur would at least want to check with Gaius and Merlin to see what the conditions of the injured and sick were before he would allow himself much rest. “I think as long as the Prince promises to rest after he sees them, he should make an appearance there to see if Gaius needs anything and see what the condition of the people is. It will undoubtedly bolster their morale and spirits if Arthur stops in to see how they are getting on. I doubt if Uther has done anything like that. I’m afraid it wouldn’t be much in character for him.”
Lancelot listened to what Arthur said, most pointedly about his father. It would probably be best if Uther heard the news from his son that Lancelot was back. How much better it would be was the question. It would probably be best if he didn’t find out at all. Lancelot did have doubts that Uther would not concern himself much with the news, though. He expected that there would be a reaction ….. as in if it rains it pours, he smirked to himself.
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Post by Arthur Pendragon on Jun 30, 2010 17:38:17 GMT -5
Arthur was not sure why it happened now. He had reached his limit, and everything that was building up inside of him . . . all the stress, all the fear, his failure, his incapabilities, mixed in with the complete lack of rest resulting in massive exhaustion . . . all just came pouring out in the form of anger. "GO then!" Arthur's voice was raised. He was yelling in a loud voice, and he did not care if anyone else was around to hear him. "I don't care if you go here, stay there, leave! I don't care!" He was not calming down. His tone held anger, frustration, and enough volume to demonstrate all of this. "I will tell you what I do care about, I care about my people! I care about all those who died in the attack! I care about those who are homeless, or orphans, or have no one else or nothing because of it!" Had he had more control of himself, he would have kept in mind that Gwen was standing here, but he had lost composure.
"I care about Morgana, and finding her alive! I care about bringing her home safely!" So far, that had been a failed mission and for Lancelot to say that he was going to continue the search for her, though Arthur somewhere in the back of his mind knew that he was just trying to help, made him more angry. It made him feel like he failed even more, and that he needed another knight to go and fix his mess. "I care about the King! And how he is directing his efforts in finding his ward, while also trying to restore Camelot despite the lack of resources and supplies!" He was still yelling, and once again, Lancelot's comment about Uther visiting the sick was uncharacteristic of him, made Arthur angry. The prince knew it was true, his father would never do that, but every remark just set him off.
"I do not care about getting rest! I do not care about making your presence known to my father! And I do not care about where you go or what you do!" Had he ranted everything? He thought so. His little yelling rant had finally come to an end, though he was not sure if he would continue. If the wrong thing was said . . . then it would set him off all over again. He just stood there, his expression still infuriated. It was no one's fault, except his own for Arthur knew that had he not failed in everything that he should have done . . . they would not be in this situation.
[Sorry this is a little out of order! Maybe Gwen can post after this so she does not get too behind!]
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Post by Guinevère on Jun 30, 2010 18:46:47 GMT -5
Your presence is not the worst news. He will not overly concern himself with it. Ah well, Arthur, if thatâs the case, I suppose Iâm not needed here then. Gwen felt very much as if she was not here. They spoke to her, looked at her, but everything they said was mostly aimed at the other. Not in mean ways but in a manly debate of some sort. Lancelot was trying to help, and offering his opinions and aid. Trying to cause as little trouble as possible. Arthur seemed very tired, and she knew the weight that was on him right now. Before he had left he had spoken with her, in one of their more impossible stolen moments. He had confessed his feelings of failing everyone. She could see him frustrated at Lancelot's ideas. Even if they had the best intentions behind them, Arthur was not int he frame of mind to hear them. Guinevère often spoke her mind when it was just Arthur and herself, but she knew when to back off and knew better then to cross some lines. Even if he would not grow angry at her, she felt she did not have the right.
I doubt if Uther has done anything like that. Iâm afraid it wouldnât be much in character for him. At Lancelot's words Guinevère sat the bucket down and looked between them. She knew the words to be true, but to say them to Arthur . . .
Her speaking them to Lancelot was one thing, or even the people speaking among them selves was not unheard of but she had not seen anyone comment negatively on Uther's character with Arthur just feet away. When Guinevère spoke to Arthur, one on one about his father she was care of how she said things so not to offend. She would admit fear of his actions but never phrase it the other way.
She knew Lancelot did not say the words to hurt, or with ill will and hoped Arthur knew that as well. Lancelot was trying to help, and be agreeable but it only made things worse. As expected, Arthur exploded. Not as greatly as Guinevère expected but enough that she held very still, afraid that angry might turn to her if she pushed to hard.
After Arthur got most of it out, and seemed to pause, Guinevère wondered if it was done. She did not want things to grow worse between the two men she loved most, so when Arthur looked as if he might continue, she moved with out thinking. Guinevère took a quick step closer to him and extended her hand to rest on his upper arm as if to physically stop the words.
Once she saw what she had done however, her eyes went slightly wider and she dropped her hand stepping back. She had never been quite so bold in public before. It was one thing to speak to him but to do this . . . she wondered if she should ask forgiveness.
Instead she looked over at Lancelot and spoke in a soften tone, almost begging him not to continue. She knew how Lancelot liked to try to convince others of what was right. His insights were often strong and sometimes so right they were frightening but nor did she wish to see either man push the other into saying thing honor would not let the other ignore, "Perhaps we should all take a moment before continuing to help the prince decide what is best? If you will be so kind, as to escort me home while the prince speaks to his father, whom is very worried for his son, and Merlin; then perhaps-" She turned to look up at Arthur, "-he will agree to join us for a meal, and tell us what we can do best to help him, help Camelot."
She stared up at Arthur for a moment, silently pleading with him to agree to join them again. Please, she mouthed with words to him, and him alone.
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Post by Deleted on Jul 1, 2010 10:08:23 GMT -5
Lancelot had not meant anything by his suggestions or advice. He had forgotten, both how explosive and how sensitive, the Prince was, but the sudden torrent of words and the brilliant red face laid out under his blond hair explained everything he needed to know. Although he knew that Arthur was capable of, he wasn’t quite prepared for this. However, in his previous training as a knight, in places far from Camelot, he had learned what to do to weather the storm. He realized that the one thing he could not do, purposely or by accident, no matter how angry the Prince made him, was to put either of his hands near the hilt of his long-swords, or near the knives in his belt. He went immediately to the pose of attention, with his hands clasped behind his back, staring straight ahead, focused neither on the Prince nor Gwen, especially Gwen.
"GO then!" …. "I don't care if you go here, stay there, leave! I don't care!" He waited until he was sure that the initial outburst was over before replying. Bowing slightly, “Yes, Prince Arthur Pendragon, I understand. I thank you for giving the choice, my Lord.” Lancelot knew that he did not want to tell him to leave, but he knew that a part of him wanted him to go, but he hoped that a part of him did not want him gone forever. Lancelot forced his body to go rigid, even as he could feel his cheeks slightly warming. "I will tell you what I do care about, I care about my people! I care about all those who died in the attack! I care about those who are homeless, or orphans, or have no one else or nothing because of it!" Bowing slightly once more, “Yes, Prince Arthur, of course you do. You always have the interests of Camelot and its people. No one would ever question your commitment to them and the kingdom.”[/color][/i][/b]
"I care about Morgana, and finding her alive! I care about bringing her home safely! .... "I care about the King! And how he is directing his efforts in finding his ward, while also trying to restore Camelot despite the lack of resources and supplies!" Lancelot wondered how long that this would or could go on. If Arthur worked himself into a violent state, would he defend himself, or allow him to strike. He decided that, unless Gwen was in danger, he would take what would come. Even so, he could feel the anger rising in him. There was no man, except for the Earl he had served, and perhaps Uther, that he would have permitted to talk in this way. “Yes, my Prince, everyone who is loyal to you and your family know how you care for them, and will not rest until you know they are all safe and sound. I humbly apologize if it appeared that I was finding fault with your effort and appeared to want to replace you in those efforts. Also, you know that I would not find fault with the actions of the Pendragons. It is not my place, as quite apparently, Camelot is not.” Suddenly, out of the corner of his eye, Lancelot saw the hand of Gwen placed on Arthur’s shoulder, as if she was trying to restrain or calm him. Within moments, though, in a glance, he saw a look of horror on her face, as if wondering and questioning what she had just done. However, it was no matter, in the state Arthur was in, Lancelot doubted whether he would even notice. Lance breathed a slight sigh of relief. If Arthur turned on her, he would have had to defend her, and thankfully Arthur had not reacted to her, yet.
"I do not care about getting rest! I do not care about making your presence known to my father! And I do not care about where you go or what you do!" Finally, another break, and hopefully it was the end. It was time for him to make an end of it. “Yes, Prince Arthur Pendragon, I would say that you have just shown that you need no rest,” he said, bowing once more. “Do not concern yourself, my Lord, with informing his Highness of my presence. He has much more important issues on his mind, as does my Prince. I will sleep in the stable next to my faithful horse, and then decide my path. Prince Arthur ….. milady,” he bowed a final time, his face red with all the anger and fury held in, turned and walked slowly away, closing his eyes for a few moments as he moved towards the darkness of the shadows cast by the stable.
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Post by Arthur Pendragon on Jul 1, 2010 10:51:24 GMT -5
Guinevère's touch was an immediate indication for him to calm down, almost like a sedative. Though he still felt the anger boiling inside of him, he was trying to control it and keep it within him, rather than explode at others. He took a deep breath, noticing when she quickly stepped back, but her efforts had been successful. He ignored everything Lancelot had said as he reacted to each of Arthur's points in his outburst. He even proceeded to walk away, as he claimed he was going to sleep in the stables. Arthur would have let him. Had Guinevère not tried to make peace and assuage the situation. Had anyone else asked him, he would have ignored their plea as her silent words did not go unnoticed.
He took a moment, standing there, looking at her, trying to control himself, as Lancelot began to walk away. "Lancelot!" He called, his voice still holding a tone of frustration. Arthur turned to look at the leaving knight. "Guinevère asked you to escort her home, so escort her home!" He enunciated each word for extra emphasis. It was his way -- his very indirect way -- of saying that he was willing to come to dinner later on, or at least try to. But Arthur was not finished. He approached Lancelot, standing extremely close to him, face to face, as one did when they were about to make a threat.
"And one more thing," he began in a low, but extremely stern tone. "You may never refer to the King by his first name. He is the King of Camelot, and so you will not disrespect him by referring to him without his proper title." Arthur did say this in a bit of a threatening way. He was not yelling, but his words were still strict. And with that, he stormed off, on his way to visit his father, and attempt to cool off amongst all of this tense air.
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Post by Guinevère on Jul 1, 2010 17:34:57 GMT -5
Her bucket all forgotten, Guinevère watched as they grew closer to what she fear would turn into a duel. Yes, Prince Arthur Pendragon, I would say that you have just shown that you need no rest. Do not concern yourself, my Lord, with informing his Highness of my presence. He has much more important issues on his mind, as does my Prince. I will sleep in the stable next to my faithful horse, and then decide my path. Prince Arthur â¦.. milady Gwen thought back to the early days of when she knew Lancelot. He and Arthur had sat side by side and shared drinks. Arthur had set Lancelot free because of that friendship, and Lancelot had risked his life to save Arthur. Because of her, it was now down to this!
And one more thing, Lancelot was trying to walk away before things got to deep but it appeared Arthur would not let him. When Arthur moved to stand close to Lancelot, Gwen moved forward to. Not knowing what she planned to do but knowing that she had to make sure Arthur did nothing to Lancelot. "Arthur, please do n--!" She said in a whispered pleading tone, hoping he would not raise a hand to Lancelot but not finishing it once he started speaking again. She did not even notice that she failed to address him properly, She had stopped calling him sire and my lord in the rare moments they stole but to do so here on the street was risking allot. You may never refer to the King by his first name. He is the King of Camelot, and so you will not disrespect him by referring to him without his proper title.
Finally, it seemed he was done, as he walked with angry strides away from the man who should have one day been his general, and the woman who had ruined that for everyone. Gwen reached over to place her hand on Lancelot's arm trying to give him the comfort of a friendly touch while she watched Arthur walk away. Once he was out of sight, she looked up at Lancelot, and blinked back tears not wanting to make a larger scene.
"I am -so- sorry." She said, "I can not begin to express how sorry I am for this. The fear for his kingdom must be weighing heavy on him to make him say such things." She wondered if she should even make excuses for Arthur's behavior but decided that for now, she would just focus on getting Lancelot to stay. At lest so she could feed him. She wondered if she should ask him to stay for Camelot, or for the people. She wondered if that would work. "Don't let his word discourage you from staying to help. We could use you. . . . I--We all could." She had almost said she could use him but did not want to say things that would lead them down the path of him getting hurt by her.
"Will you walk me to my home? I have not eaten yet today, and I would like to share my meal with you, or at lest take some to bring back here to eat." She said trying to convince him with food. "I could bring it back here for you if you rather. Please," She begged, needed to do something for him after having been forced to watch Arthur yell at him. "Let me do this for you."
Gwen did not think Arthur would return to visit this day, (or perhaps night) with his tempers so unchecked. She hoped Merlin found him, feed him and made sure he was well.
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Post by Deleted on Jul 1, 2010 18:59:37 GMT -5
Surely, Lancelot thought, he will let me go. Fortunately it was just three of them, he hoped at least. To take that kind of verbal assault, in public, from someone who was supposedly a friend, was almost too much to bear. He wondered if anything he said had even registered. He walked away, until he heard that voice, now a patronizing but commanding voice, blast out, "Lancelot!"
Lancelot stopped, wondering if this was the final breaking point. If he ignored Arthur, he would be rejecting the Pendragons forever, most likely. If he acceded to the commanding voice, there was still a chance, but he would have to swallow hard and lose some self-respect. He stopped, and responded, still with his back turned, not wanting the Prince to see his face yet, as he responded, "Yes, my Lord?" He waited for the scolding to continue or a command to be given. "Guinevère asked you to escort her home, so escort her home!"
Almost before he could turn around, he felt Arthur's presence behind him, and then felt his hand spin Lancelot around to face him. Quickly he responded, "Yes, of course ..... as you command, Prince Arthur." Lancelot would never allow another man living, at least not living for long, treat him so. Reflexively his hand moved toward the hilt of his sword, and he had to lock his jaw to prevent snarling at Arthur.
"And one more thing," Arthur said, and before he could complete the thought, Lancelot saw Gwen and heard her try to intervene. However, he didn't think Arthur even heard her. "You may never refer to the King by his first name. He is the King of Camelot, and so you will not disrespect him by referring to him without his proper title." Lancelot almost spit out his response, "Yes, Crown Prince Arthur Pendragon, I will never ever refer to your father as anything but High King Uther Pendragon, Sovereign of Camelot and Albion." He watched Arthur stalk off, leaving he and Gwen alone. "Come Gwen, now! We must obey our sovereign lord and master!"
He felt like he just wanted to go out into the countryside and scream, before he took someone's head off. But then he felt Gwen's soft but firm touch on his arm. He tried not look down into her eyes, but he failed. He knew that she could make his heart melt and take away his anger, and he didn't want the anger to go away. But finally, he looked into them anyway, and they were filled with tears. it was easy to see. "Why are you crying ... its me that he just gutted."
He shook his head negatively. "There is nothing for you to be sorry for. With time, both you and Merlin can bring out his better nature. I am just a rival, and can do nothing to make him a better man. Yes, his fear for the kingdom may have triggered it, but it only released what was buried deep, just waiting to come to the surface. I don't belong here, I can do more good out there, where he doesn't have to worry about me doing something behind his back."
He knew that she would argue against his leaving. He listened to her argument, but he knew that on some emotional level that she didn't want him to leave. "I am loyal and I can fight better than most, if not all men here. Those are my skills. Those are not the skills that Camelot needs to rebuild, to build homes, or to feed people. I can be a man at arms, but not if he can't trust me."
"My only other skill is carpentry, what I was trained to do, originally. Those skills could be used. But if I did that I would choose to hang up being a knight. I would not be both. Yes, perhaps that is the answer. Remember when you asked me what I would rather be, a carpenter or a knight. I told you that I would always be a carpenter, but it was my dream to be a knight. Maybe this is a sign that I should put dreams away, and focus on what I was originally meant to be."
"Yes, well he did command me to didn't he? So, I'd better obey. Food? Yes, food would be a nice change of pace, as long as it isn't being taken out of anyone else's mouth. If you are sure that it is no trouble. I would prefer to eat there. Right now this place has no good memories. Lead on"
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Post by Guinevère on Jul 1, 2010 19:55:57 GMT -5
Come Gwen, now! We must obey our sovereign lord and master! She hated the bitterness she heard there. Perhaps it was bot bitterness but anger? More likely so. She just stood there, afraid if she asked him to stop that it would appear like taking sides. Why are you crying ... its me that he just gutted. "I am not crying." She half lied. The tears had not spilled yet, but they had almost. Would have been unstoppable had things not ended how they did.
I am loyal and I can fight better than most, if not all men here. Those are my skills. Those are not the skills that Camelot needs to rebuild, to build homes, or to feed people. I can be a man at arms, but not if he can't trust me. He was so much more then the sword he saw him self as. She just did not know how to prove it to him yet. How to make him see how much more good he could be? How to make him believe?
Remember when you asked me what I would rather be, a carpenter or a knight. I told you that I would always be a carpenter, but it was my dream to be a knight. Maybe this is a sign that I should put dreams away, and focus on what I was originally meant to be. "Yes!" She said, clinging to that "You do not have to be one or the other, Lancelot. You can be both. Ar--The prince can only ever been one thing to this kingdom. Prince. Heir. Leader. You, you have the power to be anything the city needs you. Carpenter. Protector. Someone who aids them, gives them hope when they have little. Someone who fights for them then needed, and who knows when to set aside weapons and pick up tools needed to rebuild. You can be that for them. You can be the hero the homeless families need."
Her hand moved from his arm, down to his own hand. She held on to it while giving him a small tug as if to say 'come on'. She would feel better once they were sitting down. "I will be staying in the servant nook of Lady Morgana's rooms until things calm down. I am going to insist you use my home as your until then. There might be allot of men trying to use the stables these days. So many are with out homes. If you would like to use my father's tools, should you choose to stay as a carpenter, then I would be honored if you would." She would pray he stayed. It might make things SO much harder to bare, but she would not have to worry for him daily, wondering if he was safe.
Picking up her bucket of water, she lead the short way to her home.
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Post by Deleted on Jul 1, 2010 22:12:18 GMT -5
Lancelot could not wait to get away from the scene of his dressing down. He had never been screamed at in that way ever, not even when he had been a first-year carpenter's apprentice. Lancelot was not one with a hair-trigger temper. He rarely lost his temper or his cool, which is why he was so good in battle. He would rarely loose his head. His temper was one that built up slowly, coming to a slow boil. But when fully stoked it was something to behold, a temper that could wreak tremendous damage on the battlefield when focused.
That was where he was now ..... with his temper slowly building as he went over the things in his mind that his 'friend' Arthur had said. Arthur had humiliated him in front of Gwen, and that was not a thing he could accept easily. As they walked it was easy to see the moisture in her eyes, though she denied. "Then perhaps you have dirt that has got in your eyes, irritating them. Though not as irritating as t he Crown Prince, I'll wager."
His temper continued to smolder as he continued to obsess over what Arthur had just done to him. He tried to work through it, to divert his own attention. However, all it accomplished was Lancelot questioning the path that he was on, just as he had been questioning it the time he had helped Arthur and Merlin rescue Gwen from Hengest's castle. His mind went back over the conversation they had had long ago about whether he should be a carpenter or a knight. He had said that he would always be a carpenter, since that was what he was born to.
He now openly wondered if that would be the most useful path, However, it was clear to him that he could be one or the other, but not both. He noticed that she seized on the idea with enthusiasm. "Yes! .... You do not have to be one or the other, Lancelot. You can be both. Ar--The prince can only ever been one thing to this kingdom. Prince. Heir. Leader. You, you have the power to be anything the city needs you. Carpenter. Protector. Someone who aids them, gives them hope when they have little. Someone who fights for them then needed, and who knows when to set aside weapons and pick up tools needed to rebuild. You can be that for them. You can be the hero the homeless families need."
Lancelot shook his head in the negative quite distinctly. "No, I have to be one or the other. If I try to be both I will do neither well. My mind has to be focused on one work or the other. If the Prince or King summons me to fight, of course I will answer the call, but perhaps this disaster is a blessing in disguise, showing me where my attention and focus should really be."
As they neared her home, she took his hand, and began to lead him. Suddenly, he began to feel tired and fatigued, the effect of the events of the day finally catching up with him, young body though he possessed. "I am going to insist you use my home as your until then. There might be allot of men trying to use the stables these days. So many are with out homes. If you would like to use my father's tools, should you choose to stay as a carpenter, then I would be honored if you would." Reluctantly he agreed with just a nod of his head.
He didn't know if his tiredness made him more agreeable or not, but he really didn't see any other way if he was going to make an immediate contribution as a carpenter. He would have to have someplace to work out of and some tools. "Very well ..... I don't like it and I'm sure the Prince won't, but I don't see any other option." Within moments they were inside her home, and he chose the nearest chair to slump down into, once he had his outer armor and mail off.
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