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Caitrin hadn’t had someone this interesting to entertain her desires in quite a long time. Men, in her most recent experiences, usually just liked to get to what they wanted, and didn’t ever leave enough time to build up the excitement. Her eyes washed over Torrin, wondering why she hadn’t noticed him at court before. Then again, she was very rarely at a loose end at a feast, someone always caught her eye, but tonight that person just happened to be him. Though she had been in Camelot for some time now, she was still quite inexperienced. Men never failed to surprise or please her, and she was so far enjoying every moment of her little encounter tonight. She let her hands smooth over Torrin’s body, starting at his hips and running up to his shoulders before hooking round his neck as her fingers toyed with the stray pieces of hair at the back of his head. This was a game Caitrin was determined to master, perhaps not tonight, but she would eventually.

Her arms left his neck, and found their place at his waist as he drew her towards him. Caitrin gasped a little, and felt a little flushed at his sudden advances. A part of her was willing him on though, to see exactly what he had up his sleeve. As his lips found her neck, her head started to spin a little, and she found it harder and harder to concentrate on anything. She moved her head to the side a little, allowing him more room, and increasing her own pleasures in the process. Caitrin was only vaguely aware of her dress becoming a little looser, though the sensation of Torrin’s fingers on her newly exposed skin got rid of any thoughts relating to that; she could just about focus on all these new feelings that he was supplying her with. When she did finally think to open her eyes again, she almost felt like she was drugged. Rolling her head back into place, she grinned at Torrin, only realising then that he was actually expecting an answer from her.

Before thinking to verbally answer Torrin, her hand slipped up under his shirt, and tentatively began to run across his warm flesh. Her other hand soon joined it, working in unison across his back, and briefly moving to the front as well, and running over the soft, sensitive skin at his chest. She smirked, as her hands returned to his back; still underneath the shirt, and once again her head tilted to the side, “Perhaps a little more is required.” The smirk was still there, but she couldn’t help but wonder how much longer they would be able to keep this little game up.

It was a strange feeling for Caitrin, to know that someone knew about her gifts. In Camelot, no matter how great the temptation she would never have used sorcery in such an open way as this. It was never worth the risk, not with Uther still ruling in Camelot. Arthur had similar views, so Caitrin was not holding up much hope for her ever being able to openly use her gifts in her home. She had long come to accept that, so it never felt like she was losing anything. Yassia wouldn’t know about it at the moment, but she was the first person to know about her gifts in well, years. No one in Camelot knew. How could they? Not even Griff knew about her gifts. Perhaps she should have told him, but as long as she wasn’t openly using magic then there was no problem. Sort of. She owed him the truth, but she couldn’t bring herself to tell him. After all, that would drag him into her treason as well. Plus, she didn’t know Glouchedon’s attitude to magic. Lucan was a knight of Camelot, so perhaps the attitudes were the same there as they were in Camelot. Everything was racing through her mind, but she would have to have this conversation with Yassia at a more appropriate moment, as they were quickly being discovered by Oliver and Jeffrey. She just nodded at her friend, wondering what Yassia thought of this. She knew she wouldn’t give her over, or so to speak, so that was something.

Caitrin would have been happier racing through these trees on the mare she had back in Camelot. Lily was well used to racing and to Caitrin’s own temperament. The mare she had at the moment wasn’t anywhere near as good, but she would have to make do for now. There was no going back. Nudging her horse into a gallop she followed Yassia through the trees. Perhaps a few years ago Caitrin would have known this forest better, but it had been six years, and she no more knew this wood than she would have known one in Camelot when she had first arrived there. She had a vague recollection and nothing more, which wasn’t incredibly helpful. She kicked her horse to spur it on a little as they whirled past the trees, giving a quick smirk at Yassia.

She could hear her brother and Oliver behind them, but she was still grinning somehow. She could see Yassia was more concerned than anything, but Caitrin was driven by adrenalin more than anything. Caitrin noticed the fork in the road at the same time as her friend did and she bit her lip. “Split, you go left.” She instructed her friend, as she reared her mare to go right. Perhaps that would split the party, or mean that only one of them was followed. She didn’t have time to decide on anything else before Caitrin had reared her horse down the right path; her hood still round her hair and blocking out her true identity to those behind her. She didn’t look back over her shoulder, she just felt like her heart was in her mouth, but she had never felt more alive.

Caitrin de Archer, in truth, had never felt so happy before. A part of her almost didn’t want to trust this feeling; she’d loved before and she’d been hurt so many times. But this was different, and she had to keep telling herself that. Griff wasn’t like every other man she’d welcomed into her bed. He understood her, and this was him telling her that he wanted to spend the rest of his life with her. Caitrin just couldn’t keep a smile from her face. She just looked down at Griff, and entwined her fingers through his hair. She could get used to this, just knowing that there was something stable in her life. She didn’t have to spend her life alone, Griff was here, and he wasn’t going to leave her. She was sure of it. It had taken Caitrin long enough to trust Griff with her heart, and to admit that she did love him. Caitrin had never allowed herself to love anyone in the way she loved Griff before, but she didn’t regret it; not for a moment.

It was a strange feeling; that she was now tied to Griff, or at least she would be. There wouldn’t be any other men in her life, and they would be so happy, and eventually they’d have a family. They would be a family. It was all incredibly daunting for Caitrin, but in a good way. She leant down and kissed Griff softly on the lips before he spoke. His words didn’t surprise her, and she drew back from his kiss and poked him as hard as she could in the side. She rolled her eyes at him, “Well I’ll be the judge of that.” She said playfully, before drawing another kiss from his lips. She had no doubt though that they would be happy together, no matter what. It was one of Caitrin’s more romantic thoughts, and she wasn’t an incredibly romantic person. Griff had a habit though of bringing out that side of her personality.

Kissing Griff again on the lips, she rolled off him and just lay beside him; a large grin on her lips. Who would have thought it? Caitrin de Archer, an engaged woman. Sitting up slightly, she put her weight on her arms and looked across at her soon to be husband. As perfect as this moment was, there was just one small detail missing. “Don’t you have something to give me?” She asked him, cocking her head and grinning at him. In Mercia when a man proposed to a woman he gave her a ring, as a token of affection and to show that their heart belonged to one man alone. Caitrin rolled onto her front; holding her head up with one arm and just grinned up at Griff, waiting for her answer.

It was clear, as Caitrin took up the hem of her skirt; her ankle was far from fine. She traced along the fresh bruising, and flinched slightly. The flesh had swollen to twice its original size. This wasn’t exactly how she had been intending the afternoon to go. She just stared at it for a few moments before pulling her skirts back down, as she leant back, sighing out irritated. There was no way she was going to be able to walk on that anytime soon, let alone in the next hour or so. Caitrin was starting to get a sense of helplessness which she didn’t like or care for. She didn’t like not being in control, and yet her injury had left her completely within Celyn’s hands for the time being. There was no one else within shouting distance, and if he chose to just leave her then she wouldn’t be able to stop him. So she supposed she should be grateful he was being so nice about it all, and that he hadn’t given any thought to leaving just yet.

The apology had meant Caitrin had to swallow her pride for the time being, something she felt like she was going to have to do a lot during this meeting. She just nodded back at Celyn, glad at least he had accepted her apology. She hadn’t really had a plan for if he hadn’t accepted her apology, and she had been relying on the fact that he was a gentleman, and she had been right in that. Her apology had been genuine so she just smiled at Celyn, hoping this meant they could start afresh in a sense.

There were many times in Caitrin’s life that she was glad she wasn’t of royal blood. She was quite content to cause havoc and suchlike in the high nobility without having to worry about duty and an entire country. She knew from Arthur and Oliver that such burdens did not come lightly, and Celyn’s tone told her that as well. “He would get on well with my Uncle.” Caitrin mused with a smirk, and ran a hand down her leg so it rested on her ankle just for a few moments. “But he sounds tame when compared with my own father.” She reflected a little sadly. Her father had left her with an injury not unlike the state her ankle was in now, as a child. Those ghosts were in the past, though as much as she tried to tell herself that, the less she believed it. Her father was never far from her thoughts.

Caitrin didn’t really want to be carried, and it was taking an incredible amount of swallowing her pride for her to even entertain such an idea. She didn’t want to be in this position at all. She decided to try to put some weight on her ankle, to see whether it was truly beyond walking ability. No sooner had she shifted her weight than it was regretted. She bit back tears and stifled a cry. Caitrin took a few moments to compose herself before turning back to Celyn, “I don’t think I’ll be able to walk anywhere, well, give or take a week.”

The little scene that was unfolding really was starting to amuse Caitrin. Her sorcery had never been used in such a playful manner, and while she knew she couldn’t get used to it, she could at least enjoy it for the moment. The stone had gone exactly where she had intended it to be aimed at, and she grinned at her own talent. This for once was going in her favour, and she was enjoying every moment. She watched her brother, and the prince in their confusion, and had to stifle her laughter at the whole scenario. Neither would probably take too kindly to their pride being wounded by a couple of women, that was if they ever found out. Caitrin just watched it all unfolding, wondering what they could do next to irritate her brother and Oliver. She looked back to Yassia with a smile, but noticed her friend was watching her curiously. Caitrin frowned at her friend, but decided that now was not the time to ask her what was wrong. Perhaps she thought she had already gone too far. She and Yassia often differed in opinions to what was right and what wasn’t. It was a good difference though. It kept Caitrin grounded from time to time.

Caitrin was still looking at her brother through the trees when Yassia stepped towards her, and whispered in her ear. For a moment she wanted to laugh in agreement, that assistance had been needed, but then it hit her. Caitrin’s face was just one of panic, and she breathed out slowly; her heart thudding in her ears. “My-talents?” She repeated, though it was clear what Yassia was getting at. Caitrin had thought that she had been a little more secretive than that. This was not the time to panic. “Please, don’t say anything.” She wasn’t really used to begging, and she had almost forgotten that they weren’t in Camelot for the time being. Everything was rushing through her mind, even though her friend had said her secret was safe with her. Caitrin’s mind had missed that piece of information, though she knew Yassia would not mean her ill; no matter what. “I’ll explain later.” Caitrin said rather hurriedly. It was clear she owed her friend an explanation, no matter what that explanation detailed. She had calmed for the moment though, and almost felt relieved in a sense. This showed she hadn’t given herself away in Camelot.

Her attention had been with Oliver and Jeffrey as Yassia had once again whispered in her ear. She was just about registering that the men were now going to be searching the area before Yassia had fled. Caitrin watched her go for a moment before her brain kicked into gear, and she hitched up her skirts and followed her friend through the trees; mounting her mare with ease. “Come on, we’ll give them a chase they’ll never forget.”

Caitrin wondered how they would fare together as room-mates, as she was quite loud and when she was in the house everyone knew about it. However the fact that Lucan liked to keep himself to himself was probably a good thing as well. Perhaps Caitrin could learn to be a little quieter in return. “I’m the opposite, but I’m sure we’ll get along just fine all the same.” Caitrin had only just started working full time, and she supposed she had been a little louder when she had been living out the student lifestyle. It probably was best if Lucan stayed out of her way when she was spending her night with whatever man she had managed to charm that evening. After all, three was a crowd, and Caitrin liked her time alone.

She couldn’t help but grin at the fact Lucan was interested in her music. Most didn’t pay her much heed in terms of her musical interests, it wasn’t something they enjoyed so they just nodded and let her get on with it. “I’ll dig my Ipod out of the boxes later to show you.” Caitrin promised him with a grin. She was already enjoying her time here. She couldn’t help but laugh at the names that Lucan had given his pets, and she covered her mouth up to stifle her laughter. “Those aren’t incredibly masculine names, did you come up with them or did your father?” She asked him, still trying to stop herself from laughing. His own request was something she hadn’t been expecting, and she rolled her tongue around her answer, not that sure on what to say, “Well I’m a nurse, so I can be working all weekend.” She pointed out reasonably, “But if I’m not I’ll usually be out either Friday or Saturday night, and nursing a hangover the night after.” She smirked, “Or I’ll be seeing what the last man I’ve charmed has to offer.” She winked at Lucan, sure this was one man she wouldn’t be able to tempt, “So what’s your idea of a perfect weekend?”

Caitrin just smiled on at her guest as they continued to walk. At least her kingdom was not too far away, though it was impossible for it to be longer than a days ride away seeing as the Princess had travelled by herself. Caitrin was glad that she had found the girl rather than anyone else, save the knights of Camelot. These weren’t friendly woods for those who did not know them, and Jesu knows what sort of trouble the girl could have run into. Caitrin nodded, “Well, at least it will not take you too long to return, when you so wish.” Perhaps the Princess would like to take a day or two in which to rest before returning home, so Caitrin did not assume too much. She never did. Instead she just continued to keep walking and kept the baby in her arms wrapped up tightly against the evening chill.

Arthur was incredibly drowsy, as she had hoped, so she would probably settle him before conveying the princess to Camelot. Of course she would have to tell the guards to escort them, it was unwise for two women to ride alone as night was falling in around them, but Caitrin was getting ahead of herself, she didn’t have to worry about these things just yet. Instead she looked back at Xenia and gave her a warm smile. The girl looked troubled, which was completely understandable of course. “We’ll get you home, don’t worry about that.” Caitrin tried to reassure the girl, “I’ll get you to Camelot, and then you can rest there Princess.” Caitrin was sure Camelot would offer the girl protection; Arthur would never turn away someone in need without good reason and she knew that.

As they approached the manor, some servants rushed forwards to Caitrin and she greeted them with a smile before turning back to Xenia, “Would you like to rest your horse before I take you to Camelot?” She asked the girl brightly before turning back to her servant, “Will you tell the guards I will need them to convey myself and my guest to Camelot as soon as possible, and ready my horse please.” The girl went off with a quick ‘yes m’lady’ before running off to complete her mistresses orders. Caitrin then turned back to Xenia, “There is a wash room just off from the solar, and a guest chambers adjoining it if you wish to freshen up before we leave for Camelot.”

Caitrin de Archer didn’t feel like herself. Griff had only just left her, having spent most of the day yesterday and last night by her side. Usually, she couldn’t wait to get shot of a man after she’d satisfied her own needs, but this was different. She already wanted Griff to come back; last night had been sensational, and she wouldn’t be forgetting it anytime soon. There was another part of her though that was warning her to not go head over heels over this man. Caitrin was used to men speaking pretty words to her, and telling her she was loved and how no woman could ever compare to her. However, all those men always disappeared, and found other women to satisfy their needs. The years had hardened her heart somewhat, and though she did want to place all her trust, and affections with Griff, it was proving a harder task than she had first thought. Standing up, she brushed down her low cut scarlet gown and checked over her hair in the mirror again. She wasn’t expecting any visitors today, but she always loved to look her best.

Smiling to herself she ran a hand through her hair, as she stubbornly told herself she wasn’t falling in love. She was Caitrin de Archer, and she defiantly wasn’t in love. Biting her lip, the memories of last night came flooding back to her, one by one; the way he had held her, and teased her as he’d claimed her for his own. Caitrin shuddered a little but grinned all the same. I am not in love She told herself again before finally leaving the room. Griff hadn’t wanted to go, but he had muttered something about his brother. Caitrin didn’t really have a high opinion of Lucan so she’d waved Griff off, but she wouldn’t go with him. Lucan had said enough to her for her to care about him.

Really Caitrin had little to do with her day, and sighed softly to herself as she descended the stairs. She didn’t really want to go to Camelot; if Griff and his brother were there then it might make her look like she was stalking him a little, rather than the other way around. How ironic. In actual fact, Caitrin was saved the trouble of worrying about what her day was going to consist of, because as she got to the bottom of the stairs, Pip was coming in the front door. He usually let himself in when it was just her on her own, and she preferred that. She didn’t like the servants to know every detail of her life. Caitrin knew exactly why Pip was here; for the same reason he always called upon her. His visits were infrequent, but that was what she liked; he always surprised her. She gave a low curtsey, “Good morning my Lord.” She rose again, she loved to play out the little formalities, it just made what they were going to do more adventurous in a way. “To what do I owe the pleasure of this visit?” A small smirk came onto her lips as she stepped up to Pip so they were mere inches apart. Griff was still in the back of her mind, but if she allowed herself to falter and think on him then she wouldn’t be able to do this, and she always aimed to please Pip. It was always like that.

Caitrin was still just incredibly impressed that Isolde was going to get her own sword, not just a wooden one but a real steel one. Caitrin had never handled a sword, nor had she ever imagined she would be allowed to hold one. Her father hated the fact she had a little bow and arrows, so she had never thought to get anything more than that. She would be stupid not to be scared of the opinion of her father, because it could quickly become a violent opinion, which was something Caitrin knew quite well. She never told anyone about what her father did of course, she didn’t want to seem like she was naughty. “I bet you can’t wait to have one.” Caitrin enthused, she supposed if someone offered to buy her a new bow then she would be absolutely thrilled.

She still felt a little bad that she was in the house without Isolde’s parent’s permission, but the girl had said it was alright. She gave a soft smile and nodded at Isolde and nodded, she was quite impressed that her mother was a seamstress as well. She wondered if she had ever made any of her family dresses or tunics, “What kind of things does she sew?” Caitrin asked curiously. She knew how to embroider and she was going to be taught to made dresses within the year, and she was both dreading and looking forwards to that. It would be so boring yet it would be nice to be able to make her own things.

She almost dropped the sword in shock as Isolde passed it to her, and she used both hands to handle it at first. Caitrin held it awkwardly, half of her wanted to hand it back to her new friend, because Caitrin wasn’t allowed swords; she was just a girl. But her father wasn’t here to tell her off, and she was incredibly tempted, so she lifted the wooden blade a little as a small smile swept onto her lips. “I’d love to.” Caitrin said happily, still getting over the shock that she was actually handling a sword, “But can you show me how to use it?” She asked a little flustered, she’d never used a sword before and didn’t want to get this wrong.