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Post by Alexander on Nov 21, 2010 19:10:49 GMT -5
"Ah, but who said I wanted to escape?" Alex asked her as they continued to dance. He did not know what made him say it but he didn't feel like he could help himself. The words simply came out as if they could not be held back. Alex felt his face redden slightly but hoped it was not noticeable in the dim lighting. At her small joke he uttered a low chuckle and swept her in a grand circle before again slowing to the pace of the dancers around him.
"How is that for being swept off your feet? Am I doing an adequate job?" He joked back. He noticed a few other people glance there way but couldn't really bring himself to care. A quick glance and he noticed the little kids were still fine and within a reasonable distance.
As she spoke of sneaking off to see the competition, Alex smile grew broader. He found himself unreasonably happy that he would see her tomorrow.
"Good, for if you were to have to work tomorrow, I am sure I would go and steal you away myself. Could not leave you there all on your lonesome with only your court of geese." He responded with a conspiratorial whisper. He leaned in so that she could hear it over the chatter of the people surrounding them.
He found himself more inclined to stay close to Brynn and was sure that he would be spending far more time in her company as long as he was able to do so. However, he continued to feel a bit odd and lightheaded. He told himself mentally he would have to ask Gwen's advice on it sometime the next day. He was sure that even when he left, he would not be able to pull his mind from how comfortable he felt holding Brynn. He couldn't remember ever feeling the way he did at this moment. It half frightened him that he was so thoroughly charmed by her. He was used to being the one doing the charming. To have it turned on him and for him to get a taste of his own medicine was not something he ever expected.
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Post by Alexander on Nov 21, 2010 18:44:20 GMT -5
Alex laughed with a grin taking over his features. He was glad Gwen seemed so supportive. It was nice to know Gwen approved. He was also relieved that she had clarified what he had expected the whole time. It was one thing to think you are falling for someone. It is quite another to be told you are and to have it shoved in your face. It gave him the kick he desperately needed to talk about it.
"Indeed, charmed and bewitched am I. Now I am simply unsure of how to proceed." As Alex spoke he started to see images in his head of numerous possible rejections. Not once had Alex stopped to think what would happen if his feelings were unreturned. What if he were simply being overly romantic and foolish about the whole situation. Alex was unsure if he could have been anymore worried about his feelings before when he was unsure of what they were. He was now proven wrong as he felt the nagging fear of refusal.
"What if she doesn't want me? What if she wants someone else? What if she likes one of the other kitchen servants? Like Michael? Oh that rotten dog, I knew it! He is trying to steal her all for himself! What am I going to do?" He said as he shook his head dolefully. His mind conjured up images of her skipping away with the other man, whom he had worked with in the kitchens a few times, across those wide meadows. He could not recall ever actually seeing the two even having a chat but it could be true. He was losing her already! His mind ran away with him, and in the back of his subconscious he realized he was being absolutely ridiculous. Love does seem to do funny things with one's head.
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Post by Alexander on Nov 21, 2010 18:33:38 GMT -5
Alex took the Prince's words with a nod. Indeed fighting off the skeleton was not an expierience he ever wanted to repeat. Listening to the Prince's careful words, Alex almost doubted the conclusions he had made a few minutes prior. If not for the way they looked at each other it was near impossible to see anything out of the ordinary. Even the glances were not overtly unsubtle. In fact, in another situation they probably would not have been noticable at all. Alex knew it was not something to be spoken of and put the thoughts away for the time being.
"I'm sure it is nothing more then a small scratch. After it's wrapped I should be fine." Alex said quickly. He was not a fan of doctors in general. It was a small quirk of his. They made him a bit uneasy. A silly thing to be uncomfortable with, but given his wound was not very serious he didn't feel it was a necessary precaution. Then again, Alex was by no means an expert in medecine. If given a chance, Alex could end up the first death by papercut victime due to his stubborness and absurd unwillingness to do anything about it. Alex chuckled a bit in a slightly nervous manner and lept at Gwen's change of subject.
"You should let Gwen rewrap that. Can't have our prince catching an infection." Alex said with a small smile. He was glad that the attention would no longer be on him. Scrutiny made him nervous. Not to mantion he felt odd now knowing the nature of Gwen's reguard for the prince. He by no means wanted to be in the way. It was very much awkward for Alex, while the other two might not even realize he was finding out about the whole thing. It was, however, quite romantic. Their whole forbidden romance thing. Alex couldn't help but find it a bit amusing.
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Nov 21, 2010 18:16:02 GMT -5
Post by Alexander on Nov 21, 2010 18:16:02 GMT -5
Alex broke a dish for the first time since he had come to work in the castle kitchens. He stared blankly at the pieces as the two gossiping servants turned to look at him. He shook his head slightly as if to erase the words said. Guinevère was in the cells, and she was to be burned at the stake for witchcraft. It was an odd hollow feeling in the pit of his stomach that only seemed to grow as the loud unnatural silence fell in the kitchens. Those who knew of their friendship seemed only to have pity stretch across their features. That frightened him, but the worst were the people who looked like they had already written Gwen off as guilty. It was that that drove Alex to turn on his heel and flee.
He left the kitchens without so much as a word and let his feet carry him to the stairs. Down he went, his face set in a stony countenance he wore very rarely. As he neared the guards he remembered he had forgotten to think of what he would tell them to get past. He approached and slowed his pace. Alex stopped in front of them and let his hands flutter in vague gestures as he tried to speak. He felt that it must have been both pity and impatience in the guards that allowed him entrance. He cursed in his mind that he had not heard the news sooner as he approached the cell where he could make out his friends figure in the dim lighting.
Kneeling at the bars when he reached the cell, Alex could not help but breath a bit shallower when he made out the beginnings a a stake through the cell's upper window.
"Gwen.." He said softly. His voice was a bit raspy from his run down to the dungeon's but he cleared his throat. He found himself clutching at the bars futiley. The strong metal only caused him further distress. Gwen had been his first true friend here in the castle. He looked to her for advice when he needed it, and she had never steered him wrong. She was as a second sister to him and he could never believe she would be capable of using witchcraft for nefarious means. He had seen the way Arthur looked at her. There was no way it was a spell. That was something no magic could ever fake. Alex stuttered but could not bring himself to say anything coherrent.
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Post by Alexander on Nov 19, 2010 20:48:00 GMT -5
Alex smiled at her response. She had let her sentence trail off and Alex wasted no time in finishing it.
"And then I shall be a puppet in your lovely hands." He said smoothly. He felt himself lighten and he swept them through the other dancers easily. Alex picked up on he hesitant steps, and realised she must still feel her ankle. He did not speak on it, but simply let his arms lift her slightly to take most of the weight off her injury. Alex was no stranger to lifting things due to his job, so it didn't even faze him. He was doing it to help her. That was his story and he was sticking with it.
"I might go see the competitions tommorrow. I have some time off during the festivities during the day. It's only the nighttime feasts that get the kitchens really busy. During the day, most of the nobles are taking lunch outside." He spoke. His calm and even tone did not betray the slightly erratic way his heart beat. Nor did it give away the way his thoughts raced at what seemed like a mile per minute.
As he thought on the next few days, he was gladdened by the thought of having time off. It was not often the kitchens did not need to be fully staffed during the days. In fact, Alex did not remember the last time he had had so much time to himself consecutively. Not to mention it meant he could spend more time with certain people.
Not that that was all he thought about. In fact, he was sure there were plenty of other things to do. Like walking in the meadows to get fresh air, or going to the dance event in the lower towns or... Alex decided to abandon that train of thought as it only seemed to lead down a dangerous track that he was unwilling to explore when any minute he felt his face would turn bright red and he would say something stupid.
For a man of words, Brynn left him with very few.
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Post by Alexander on Nov 19, 2010 20:37:54 GMT -5
Alex nodded and walked with Gwen towards the seats. The rows were already filling with many people although there was still a bit of time before the knights would even be ready. Alex sat next to Gwen and settled himself while he gathered his thoughts in order to be able to adequately word what he would say. He found himself thinking far more then usual about what came out of his mouth, and this itself made him quite unsure on how to catogorize how he felt.
"Well, she is absolutely and completely brilliant. I could speak for hours about her and yet I fear she leaves me with no words at all." He started. His hands fidgeted on his lap and he stared off into space for a moment. It was almost frustrating to try and find a way to describe it. He went to start speaking but paused. He looked upward and again tried to find the words.
"She plagues my every moment. My every thought..." He trailed off. Alex smiled sheepishly at Gwen. He was a bit embarrassed that anyone had this affect on him. Usually it was he that made people flustered. It was quite a feeling to feel that way himself. In fact, Alex was left rather bewildered.
"Forgive me, for I cannot even do this justice. She is Venus and I am a helpless moon, orbiting around her with not the faintest idea why." He said softly. He ruffled his hair and even felt his face redden slightly. He turned his eyes to Gwen and tilted his head slightly. Even as he spoke, he thought only of the other night. Of dancing and laughing. Of the delightful banter that he now found cluttered his every thought. Even his sister had complained his mind was elsewhere that morning. Alex was quite sure that he needed to tell someone or he would start running into walls or falling down stairs.
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Post by Alexander on Nov 19, 2010 20:23:11 GMT -5
Alex was not exactly sure what had him making his way out of the kitchens. He knew he would have to be back in no more then an hour and a half, but he was to fidgety to stay indoors. He instead found himself leaving through one of the castles many doors and toward the meadows. If anyone were to ask, he was simply getting fresh air. It of course had absolutely nothing to do with who he knew spent much of her time in the meadows. That would simply be a large illogical leap to make.
He couldn't help but whistle to fill the abnormal silence that surrounded the grounds. He could see the lower towns from where he walked and didn't pay it much attention as he let his thoughts wander. He tried not to think of the politics that one couldn't help but catch onto while working in the palace. Even people who didn't follow them knew that trouble was rising with that King Cenred fellow. If you asked Alex, that man was looking for trouble and Camelot certainly didn't need any more of that. A dragon and a missing ward was quite enough.
Alex paused as the first waive of noise hit him. At first he figured it was a commotion or arguement that would blow over quickly, but then he heard the screams. His first thought was to look quickly toward the towns. It was chaos. All he could seeing were people running in every direction.
Alex could not see the cause from where he stood, but made no move to wait to see what it was. Instead he took off towards the center of whatever was going on. It was a bit too near to his step-father's bakery for him to not start to inwardly fret. His only thoughts were for the safety of his family and friends. Sure it wasn't a great idea, but Alex was nothing if not recklessly protective of those he loved.
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Post by Alexander on Nov 17, 2010 8:08:56 GMT -5
Alex twisted his hands together in front of him as he waited for Gwen to speak. She seemed to be in a good mood which made Alex happy. He liked to see his friends enjoying themselves. He almost forgot completely about his problem for a moment before it was again at the forefront of his mind. He had been watching Gwen smile and then had seen someone else in the corner of his mind. This had been his whole morning from start to finish. Although the worst bit had been when he had found exuses to linger around the door from the kitchens to outside. The head chef had nearly decided to throw him into the porrige before telling Alex to go get some fresh air instead of wandering around like a lost puppy.
Alex sighed and refocused in on Gwen before his thoughts took him somewhere else again that day. He listened to her reply and let out a short bout of laughter. He still found humor in the day they first met. He was also a bit proud to say that indeed he had not broken a single dish since then.
"Alas, that would be a problem too easily solved." He spoke with bit of over dramatic flair. He might be confused about some things, but he was still himself in every way. Eccentric ways and all. In fact as he spoke his hands relaxed and gestured slightly with his words. His mother continued to tell him that he should have been a player or a word smith when he got into one of his speeches and started to speak in his overly flowery and ornate manner. He himself was convinced he would not work anywhere but a kitchen. He had enough ornamentation in his words and didn't feel the need to have it in his job.
"In truth, I wished to ask you for some advice. I met someone, and I am not quite sure what to think. I feel terribly off-balance and quite unsettled." He said. His tone was almost as confused as he felt. He could not keep the sheepish smile off his face as he spoke. He looked toward Gwen and once again thanked whatever force led him to be friends with her. Somehow he found this less embarrassing then if he had approached anyone else for advice like this. Gwen had the air of someone you could confide in. Alex also knew that she would give level headed advice, which he sorely needed.
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Post by Alexander on Nov 16, 2010 22:55:23 GMT -5
[Day three. Near the Sword competition which starts relatively soon.]
Alex was not normally one to leave the kitchens at one of the busiest times. However, the breakfast rush had ended and Alex was looking for someone who was most likely going to attend the competitions that would soon begin. Alex knew that Gwen would be with the Lady Morgana during the events of the day, but he was hoping to catch her early and steal a few moments of her time. Lately Alex had found himself a bit unsettled when around a certain girl and he knew that the only sound advice for his situation could be obtained by asking a girl. Seeing as Gwen was his closest female friend, he figured she would do perfectly.
Dressed in his normal work attire, he hoped he did not attract too much attention. With a plain shirt slightly open at the top with worn pants tucked into his boots, he did not pretend to be as dressed up as many people he saw hanging around. Alex was also not often out and about the castle unless running errands. He paused to greet a few aquaintences who were enjoying the festivities as he continued his search. He concentrated on looking around where the sword competition would be held. He figured Gwen would have to pass where he was to get to her seat.
Nevously he tugged at his sleeve with one hand and ruffled his hair with the other. He was going over what he wanted to ask in his head. He was sure Gwen would be able to help. She seemed like someone you could rely on to help out with this sort of thing. However, even in his mental debate with himself over how to bring up the topic, he still managed to smile at some kitchen maids he knew who walked by and giggled lightly. He shook his head slightly as they passed. He didn't think he would ever understand why girls giggled so much. Although he found himself not remembering girls giggling, but Brynn laughing the other day. She really did have quite a pretty laugh when he thought about it.
Even as these thoughts came to mind Alex groaned slightly. There he went again thinking about her! It was driving him mad. He could not stop and he was starting to space out on the job. It wasn't something he was familiar with in the slightest and it was starting to confuse him to no end.
As he scolded himself for slipping again, he saw Gwen approaching. He straightened and nearly skipped toward her. He didn't really pay much attention to his surrounding and had to apologize to the man he nearly ran over. He stopped in front of Gwen and smiled crookedly.
"I think I have a problem."
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Post by Alexander on Nov 15, 2010 21:11:58 GMT -5
Alex laughed at her reply and inclined his head toward her. He again tried to look contrite, but the grin quite ruined it. So instead he settled on a teasing glance as he spoke again.
"Ah, I see I can do no right! However, I allow you to make any demand of me that you should wish. Far be it from me to deny an Angel. Fallen or otherwise." He said. He honestly did not mind continuing to support her, even though he realized she was probably stable by now. He felt odd as he wondered why he seemed to be a bit off-balance with Brynn. It left him a bit confused, but he was careful not to show that. He carefully hid it with his smiles.
He liked that she didn't seem bothered by his ornate way of speaking. His mother had always told him exasperatedly that he should have been a word smith. Alex figured it was most likely something he had picked up along his childhood. Perhaps it was from the nobles he often delivered the bakery's bread too. Or he could just be a bit eccentric. Anything was possible. However, it had become almost an identifying mark, and now people associated Alex with his over flowery remarks. However, with Brynn he found that they were less teasing and more sincere. It was a situation he was not all too familiar with.
"Well, I will make sure there is no need to be careful. No harm will come to you this dance." He spoke and whirled her out amongst the other dancers. He kept his arms firm so as to keep his support steady. He was also more careful to avoid the other dancers as they moved throughout the crowd. He let his smile fade into a smaller more serene look. He continued to contemplate his emotions carefully
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Post by Alexander on Nov 15, 2010 20:51:09 GMT -5
Alex rested lightly with his arms propping him up. He examined Gwen from where he sat with a slightly curious glance. Alex didn't inquire further about the mystery man, but couldn't help but wonder. He shook off the nagging curiosity and instead settled on trying not to wince when his side stretched. He was not going to enjoy trying to find a decent way to sleep that night. However, he knew that once he lay down he would be out quickly. Right now he was wide awake, but he was pretty sure it was just left over adrenaline. Alex tilted his head and looked up at the ceiling while considering a response. He did not have time to actually give one before someone else entered the kitchens.
The very first thing that Alex noticed was that it was the Prince. Alex had only spoken to him once before, but there was not a soul in Camelot who could not pick out the Prince's face in an instant. When Alex had met him, it had been to suddenly find he was given a position of great responsibility during the famine. The way the Prince had spoke had left Alex with nothing but confidence in the young man.
However, it was not the Prince who kept Alex's attention. His gaze was instead drawn to Gwen's expression. He wrinkled his brow as he tried to place it, and then when he finally thought it through he settled for a slight reddish hint on his face. Oh...
Alex quickly took in the sight of the room and himself and turned his face to the Prince. If Alex was ever flustered it was now. He watched as the Prince took in everything and when he spoke Alex almost sighed in relief. Apparently no harm was done. Alex found himself considering carefully before he replied. He certainly found that he had the restraint not to blabber given the situation. Although, it could have been he was still sluggish from the altercation with the skeleton-thing.
Gwen answered the question before Alex could string sentences together. Alex again felt a bit of embarrassment at her mentioning him protecting everything. He doubted anyone else wouldn't have done the same. He found himself unused to getting praise. Usually he was out of sight. However, given his usual confidence, it was not long before he recovered his voice.
"It was nothing, Sire. Just a... well it was a... some kind of skeleton-warrior-undead-thing." He said as he tried to find the right words to describe what they had been up against. He gestured toward the heap of bones that lay next to the discarded makeshift weaponry. He felt Gwen touch his injury again and let his mouth twitch slightly at the uncomfortable feeling. Alex forced the grimace back into a smile to let Gwen know he was thankful for her helping him.
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Post by Alexander on Nov 11, 2010 0:17:46 GMT -5
Alex smiled as he felt Gwen hug him. A small wince was the only hint that the wound was paining him, but he ignored it in favor of simply being glad they were alive. He wasn't familiar with magic of any kind, but he did not believe it had made a good first impression. It seemed the same as any weapon to him. In the wrong hands it was dangerous. However, Alex had a hard time believing anything was strictly evil by nature. It was not magic's fault that it got used to evil ends. Although he was not against all magic, Alex knew better then to speak of it. He also knew that it did not mean he wanted to be around it. To be honest, it made him rather nervous.
Alex did not speak, but instead nodded along to Gwen. He heard her say she would go get something for his wounds and so he leaned his head all the way back so that his warm skin pressed against the cooler side of the counter. He could almost forget the pain if he let his mind drift enough. For some reason, Alex could not think of anything except for the idea that his mother would laugh that it took fighting an undead skeleton to get Alex to be quiet for an extended period of time. In fact, Alex was quite sure he had not been this quiet for a long time. He simply could not find the words for what he had just experienced. Alex took in the silence and started to breath slowly to relax. Little by little, he untensed his muscles and let the leftover shock run its course.
By the time Gwen returned, Alex was in more or less better shape. His side still ached, but he had enough energy to sit upright. Alex was careful to keep his arms from brushing the wound. His eyes raised to meet Gwen's as she entered and Alex gave her a smile closer to his usual grin. His good humor was slowly returning and he felt more like his old self already.
"You just want an excuse to get my shirt off." He joked. However, Alex did as he was told and gingerly removed what was left of his shirt. With a hole in the side and covered in blood, Alex doubted he would ever wear the shirt again. He settled for tossing it to one side. Alex took the opportunity to stand and find a better perch on the counter. He figured it would be easier for Gwen to clean the wound that way.
Alex was a bit taken aback by her thanks. He wasn't normally in the position of being thanked so sincerely. In fact, it made him a bit bashful, and he ducked his head sheepishly. However, he shook it off and raised his gaze to her's again. He would repeat his actions a hundred times over if it would protect a friend of his. Gwen was one of the first people here he had really made a connection to. Alex would not lose that for anything. His reply was modest, as he did not want to dwell on how close a situation it had actually been.
"Think nothing of it."
He also noticed her worry. He was very good at reading people, and he liked to think he knew Gwen long enough to know something was off. She had the look of someone who hoped for good news but also feared that news of the opposite type would arrive any second. She had the look of many a soldiers wife. Ale was familiar with the expression, as he had been around to see it on other's faces.
"Whoever he is, I'm sure he will be fine." Alex said softly. He tried to give her some sort of reassurance. He knew that waiting to see if someone you loved would come back was most likely the worst feeling one could have. He just wanted to offer her what comfort he could.
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Post by Alexander on Nov 9, 2010 17:40:23 GMT -5
"Alas, anything I can do to make up for my error. Just say the word and it is done." He said. Alex let his arm encircle her waist to offer support. He knew she was most likely fine, but he still wanted to be sure. Alex made a mockingly repentant face and shrugged once to elaborate on his feigned regret.
As she stood, Alex watched carefully while he masked it with another smile. Whether he was any good at pretending not to care was up for debate. He did not hide concern, or anything else for that matter, well.
"I would love to dance again. As soon as the music slows, we may be out amongst our fellow people once more." He spoke airily. He glanced at the crowd once more, and resolved to keep an eye out for any more accident prone moments. As the music slowed he decided it would be much easier and less rowdy. Plus, he did not object in the slightest to his prolonged contact with Brynn. He found himself growing more fond of her by the minute.
"Fear not, fair one. I could hardly ever become one of those overeager fellows. For how could one be overeager to dance? Would that not lead to it being over quite soon? I would not wish to end our time together so quickly." Alex said as his flowery language returned in full force. He returned Brynn's wink and gazed over at the dancers, noticing the dance was coming to an end.
Alex was not surprised that they had not met before the festivities. At the beginning of his employment he was often running errands or delivering or storing supplies. He did not get out of the kitchens often. Seeing that Brynn was often outside with her geese, they had probably never had much opportunity to run into each other. Even if they had seen each other, they might have been to busy to fully notice the other. Although now it was getting hard for Alex to not notice Brynn in any way.
"Vicious beasts beware. I shall not let any near you. They will fall in your name. Let all know that the fair Brynn shall come to no harm whilst I am around." He replied to her teasing. Alex let his smile grow as she returned his smile. He heard the music start to fade as one song ended. The tune that began again was calmer and with a steady pace that left the frenzy of before to fade. The dancers slowed and the movements became more organized. Alex gestured toward them with the arm not supporting Brynn.
"Shall we dance?"
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Post by Alexander on Nov 9, 2010 17:24:42 GMT -5
Alexander could only watch in awe for a second as Gwen struck the creature with the broom. He saw it fall to the ground and shook himself from his stupor. He growled when the thing grabbed at Gwen who was trying to reach the sword. Alex felt his blood rush as his adreniline continued to give him more energy then he imagined he could hold. With a leap he grabbed the sword from the ground. Alex moved to the side of Gwen so that he would not hit her, and brought the sword down on the thing's arm. He did not spare a thought at the sickening crunch the arm made as it was cleaved in two.
Alex had doubted at first that he could swing the heavy sword, but found that with his boost in energy he was quite able. he also figured it had to do with all of the heavy items he carried around working in the kitchens. For once his laboring came in handy. Alex strained his arms and lifted the sword again, this time bringing it down onto the creatures skull. The skeleton was still for a moment as it's skull shattered.
Alex almost breathed in relief until he saw it twitch and start to pick itself up using it's remaining arm. Alex used his right arm to hold the sword out, while he tried to drag Gwen away from the creature. It was slowly standing and started to move forward when it gave a shudder. Alex raised the sword, but soon stopped when the skeleton shook once more and collapsed.
Alex did not relax untill he was sure it would not get back up. Suddenly it was like the strength drained out of him and he dropped the sword to one side. Alex let himself fall back and lean against a counter. He sat on the floor and tilted his head backwards to draw in a few shakey breaths. The pain in his side persisted through the haze of exhaustion and he leaned to examine it. There was a tear in his shirt and he could make out a long cut. It wasn't very deep but it stung with every movement. Alex figured it wasn't deadly and turned his attention to Gwen.
"Are you alright?" He didn't use his normally flowery language and settled for just the basics. Alex didn't really feel up to his usual standards and didn't think he could even spare the energy to stand at the moment. He could see the discarded weapons from where he sat but made to get them. He figured if the skeleton rose again he wouldn't be able to fight it off anyway. Alex thanked the stars that it seemed to have died... again.
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Post by Alexander on Nov 9, 2010 17:12:51 GMT -5
Alex didn't need to be told twice to watch his fellow workers. He knew that they were all good people, but they also had hungry families. He would not put it past them to try and sneak a bit of grain out. Alex already had been keeping an eye out, but with the Prince's warning he resolved to be even more attentive. Alex also did not miss the subtle warning in the Prince's words. Alex would not be fool enough to try and siphon any food out. If he were to be caught it would not do his family any good. Alex also knew that that would take away from other families who needed it just as much.
Alex was quite sure that no one would get away with stealing. Even if Alex had not been watching, no one could miss the kights who were there to guard the grain. Not a single person who worked here could get up the courage to confront a knight of Camelot. That would do more harm then good for them. Alex was quiet as he nodded in recognition of the Prince's orders. If Alex was ever serious, it was about his duty and his loyalty to those he worked for and with. Alex would not hesitate to report stealing. He was very easy-going but always knew and abided by the rules. Alex would not turn a blind eye to anything in a situation such as this. It was one thing to joke about the rules, it was another to actually do something that would harm all of Camelot.
"You have nothing to fear Sire. I will watch everything." He said simply. There was no need to elaborate. Alex couldn't help but let his hands fidget with the bottum of his shirt slightly. He was not used to being given so much responsilbility, and would not mess it up. It was not often a kitchen boy got promoted this soon. Alex knew it was temporary, but he might as well do a good job. Then later people would know he was capable of handling situations like this.
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Post by Alexander on Nov 6, 2010 23:07:20 GMT -5
Alex watched the skeleton, but also noticed Gwen's movements behind him. He was glad she had decided to pick something up to defend herself with. He wasn't going to let that thing any closer, but have a weapon was practical. Alex watched carefully for any sign of movement from the creature and, as soon as it moved to swing it's sword, Alex hurridly pulled up the pot cover to block the swing.
Alex felt that arm go slightly numb under the impact and stepped back to shake it off. This was as Gwen let the broom swing at its head. The skeleton seemed uninjured but distracted by the sudden attack, and Alex used the oppertunity to aim his own blow. He remembered one of the chefs had used the pommel of the carving knife to break open nuts. So instead of using the blade, which would do no harm against pure bone, Alex aimed the hard handle into the things skull.
Not being a highly trained warrior, Alex's aim was a bit off center. The first blow glanced off the skull harmlessly, and the second got a solid landing on the skeleton's collarbone. The crack was audible and Alex stepped away as the bone he had hit caved a bit. He felt a rush of accomplishment, but it was quickly drowned out. The thing merely tilted its head and raise its sword again. Alex grimaced. How was he supposed to fight something that seemed to be immortal?
Somewhere in the back of his mind, Alex knew it was magic and knew that there must be a gap in the defenses if it got back here, but he could not find time to dwell on these facts. He was a bit preocupied by the living dead creature that was currently attempting to chop him into bits and pieces. It was not the best envirement for contemplating failings in Camelot's defense.
Alex stepped back quickly to avoid another swing at his head, and found himself stumbling slightly. His make shift shield would not last under the rain of hits from the skeleton. A pot cover was not meant to take on a sword that was created to kill. In fact after another hit Alex was forced to throw the shield. He opted to throw it at the skeleton for good measure. Not that it did much good.
He hit again at the creature's head but got the arm as the knife was blocked. The arm cracked but did not break. As he stumbled to regain his footing, Alex was aware in the back of his mind that his left side stung a bit. He knew it meant he had recieved some type of wound, but ignored it in favor of the crazed un-dead foe he currently faced. He wouldn't need to worry about his injury if he stopped concentrating and the thing kiled him.
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Aug 14, 2011 12:58:43 GMT -5
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Post by Alexander on Nov 6, 2010 14:54:10 GMT -5
Alex felt the area around the ankle gently making sure not to place too much pressure. he didn't want to cause any more pain. He checked for swelling and any other damage, but so far it was minimal.
"Angel's only fall because fools like me wish for them." He said with a light chuckle. His eyes didn't meet hers. He kept his gaze at her ankle where he was less likely to show any bashfulness. It wasn't like him to worry so much about what he said and if she would take it the wrong way. Alex chose not to dwell on this fact.
"We can continue as soon as you are sure you will be ok. A dance is a small thing to sacrifice for your comfort." He said quietly. Now that they were off to one side, there was less need to talk loudly. In truth, the passerby did not spare them more then a glance. Alex didn't want her to feel bad for cutting the dance short. He was more then happy to simply be in her company.
A quick side look showed the kids still near bye so Alex again put his mind at ease. He was not worried about parents showing up since his step-father had used the kid free night to make his mother dinner. It was rather sweet in a 'Alex doesn't want to hear about it later' way.
"I would gladly protect you from harm any day, fair lady." Alex said in a gallant voice he conjured up. He fell back into the light banter easily. He placed her ankle down lightly after assuring it was a simple twist and nothing more. She would be up and about in no time.
He raised his eyes to meet hers now and smiled. It was not his usual big grin, but one that was more sincere. No laughter burst forth as he observed Brynn quietly from where he knelt in front of her.
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Post by Alexander on Nov 5, 2010 20:10:24 GMT -5
Alex smiled andleaned a bit closer so his voice could be heard above the growing noise of the other dancers. He tilted his head so that he spoke towards her ear.
"Ah, but there is the key! I do believe that that is exactly what an angel might appear as. For would she not have grass stains after her fall from the heavens? And rough hands from her desent as well? Those noble ladies lack the charms you have without a doubt. Not all are so entranced by their high and mighty behaviour." He said quite seriously with the hint of humor still lingering. He was not being entirely in jest. He did believe everything he said. He also kept his eyes from her neck as she laughed. He was afterall trying to keep with his good intentions.
He stopped the moment her realized something was not quite right. She seemed to favor one ankle as she gasped and stumbled. He immediatly swept her away from the revlers to the side where they would not get trampled. He waved away her comment about bumping into him and found a small stool for her to rest on.
"Forgiveness is not required for it was not you who drunkenly stumbled into us. Are you alright?" He asked with a hint of concern in his voice. He reached for her ankle but made sure to do so slowly. He did not wish to overstep his bounds. He just wanted to see if there was anything he could do to help. He was quite used to careing for sprains. Lita was always getting them in her little run abouts. Alex merely wanted to assure that she was not injured too much.
"I hope you are alright. I would hate to have lured you into such a dangerous situation such as dancing at the festival. I do not think my honor could withstand such a blow!" He kidded, trying to draw her mind off of the pain. Alex was familiar with trying to take people's mind off of things. For once his humor was actually relevent.
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Post by Alexander on Nov 5, 2010 18:45:50 GMT -5
Alex could feel the tension in the air of the kitchens. He was the only one there and the quiet put him on edge. Everyone else was running suplies elsewhere, or tending to the wounded. Alex had been left to make sure when people came to the kitchens they could find what they needed. In truth, Alex was unnerved by the emptyness of the room. It seemed unnatural for a place normally so busy. Alex himself did not like being alone. He currently was keeping an eye on the water left to boil over the fire. The water was important for the wounded and needed to be hot so it wouldn't give way to infection when used.
Even from a place so away from much of the fighting, the noises were still heard. Terrible sounds of fighting rang throughout the castle and Alex felt his hands tighten on the cloth he was tearing for bandages. With every crash from afar images of his friends went through his head. The terrible thoughts seeped into him like the rain would through his clothes. Alex's brow furrowed as the time went on and he sat so quietly that he seemed a statue, but for his limited hand movement. His mind worried at where his family was and whether they were safe or not.
Alex merely raised his gaze when Gwen entered and gave her a worried look. She looked just as terrified as he felt. She leant by the window and Alex placed the cloth down gently to attend to her request. He turned away to get water and was about to speak when he heard her scream. He jolted and spun to face where she was looking.
If Alex was asked to describe what he saw he could only say it must have walked straight out of his little sister's nightmares into his reality. It moved toward them with it's skeletal body menacingly raising a sword. Alex wasted no time getting in front of Gwen. His hand grabbed the nearest weapon he could find and he held the carving knife in between him and the creature steadily.
"Just stay back Gwen." He said with a dark edge to his voice he rarely ever used. His face was deadly serious and his other hand that was empty reached for a large pot cover to use as a make shift sheild. There was absolutely no way this thing would be allowed to hurt his friend or destroy his kitchens. The irrational part of his mind lamented the fact that the dirt the creature trailed was going to ruin the floors he had cleaned not yesterday evening.
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Post by Alexander on Nov 4, 2010 21:27:46 GMT -5
Alex tilted his head and smiled at Gwen as she blushed and looked around. He found it endearing how embarrassed he seemed to be able to make her. He held up his hands as if to defend himself and mockingly furrowed his brow.
"Any other maid could never compare, fair Gwen." He said as he protested her doubt. His laughter bubbled up to show he was kidding and he lowered his arms again.
Alex also let his smile twitch a bit at the mention of their current queen. He had gotten a look at her and had stayed in the kitchen ever since. Seeing the remnants of her food, he could not imagine being forced to watch her dine. It was a horror he could not unleash on even his greatest enemy. Not that he had any enemies. He tended to be quite friendly with all the people he encountered.
"I do not fault you for not being able to stay there. I do not think anyone would, were it not for their duty to the crown." He felt a surge of pity for those who were required to dine with the king and queen this night. Alex found himself thanking his stars that he was a kitchen boy and not of any noble blood. There were things a lot worse then working in the kitchens. One of them just happened to be sitting in the dining hall at the moment.
"How long have I worked here? A bit under a year. Although, for a while I simply did supply checks. You have to work your way up after all. Now I get to actually stay in the kitchens." Alex said. He was proud of his accomplishments while here. He could remember a while ago when he had gotten his first big break. The prince himself had put him in charge during the strange famine that had gripped Camelot. After that, Alex had risen pretty quickly in the scheme of things.
"If you want to know a secret, sometimes the chef lets me help with the actual cooking." He said in a very childlike manner. His face lit up and he felt the simple joy at being in a kitchen and working with food. If there was ever someone who knew what he wanted to do in life it was Alex.
(Thanks, I would like to think I make Alex endearing.)
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