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Post by Brynn Reade on Jan 29, 2012 18:02:55 GMT -5
Clearly, Gwaine couldn’t have chosen a worse moment to drop by and steal some food in Brynn’s eyes, or she and her mother couldn’t have chosen a worse place to be in now than the kitchens. She needed to get this point across to her mother, and as soon as possible, without any distractions. But then, she had to take things as they came, and maybe these circumstances held some benefit after all.She just would have to find it first. Well, one benefit surely was the pleasure of seeing Gwaine caught red-handed… or rather BREAD-handed. The expression on his face, before he could master his usual confidence again, reminded her so much of a rabbit facing a snake that she had to stiffle a laugh, looking to the side so he would not see the dear amusement on her face. And of course he would now try to charm them both. Brynn looked back just in time to see the wink directed towards her, and nearly flinched. What was Gwaine thinking?! Didn’t he know that such a wink was certainly the equivalent of code red to every mother’s overprotective eye? Meghan Reade was no exception of that.
Then again, Gwaine gave her the opportunity she had waited for, and so she quickly chimed in, trying to get her mother back on the topic, while at the same time hoping Gwaine’s presence would distract her so much she might overlook the details.
”That’s true mother, no servant is pregnant. Her name is Caitrin Aubert, you know, and she would really, really need your help!” Brynn had adopted a tone half way between coaxing and pleading, the usual tone probably every child in the world took on when it wanted its parents do something, trying to put it in the best light possible. The best light possible in these circumstances was Meghan’s mother instinct for Brynn. She usually never held back when she felt someone was in need of assistance. Why would it be different, just because the woman in question was of noble birth? Well… to be honest, the answer was simple: because.
But Meghan was not so easily fooled. Not by her daughter and certainly not by Gwaine, who had in her eyes taken the leadership on Camelot’s charm department from a smitten and tamed Alex. And her daughter was involved with both men. How come, she often wondered, that her quiet and reasonable daughter attracted and associated with such a kind of men? Even though she knew Brynn was nothing but friends with the charming, handsome and mischievous knight, she always felt like she had to keep an eye on this constantly. Gwaine’s history with women was legendary after all, and she did not want Brynn to get in trouble she couldn’t disentangle herself from. She only wanted her daughter to be happy, and that happiness was certainly not found in the arms of an insatiable womanizer.
Registering the wink Gwaine smuggled in Brynn’s general direction with a warningly raised eyebrow, Meghan took a few resolute steps towards the knight and held out her hand expectantly.
”You do realize that it won’t make any difference to me whether I demand this bread or a suitable repayment for it with or without a title, young man? If not, you know it now. What do you have to say for your defense? With due respect, you don’t look like a man dropping on the spot to me.”
Of course she was not truly angry, she just needed to make an example here. All in all, the young knights were good people, but just like any rascal of their age, they needed to learn their boundaries. No one had to starve in Camelot, and therefore stealing food was simply unnecessary. But then, her daughter’s words really got through to her, and she wasn’t distracted enough to overlook one particular detail.
”Aubert?! You mean LADY Caitrin Aubert?!” she exclaimed, her head darting around to her daughter in disblief. “You want me to play midwife to a noblewoman? Are you out of your mind, Goosey?”
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Post by Brynn Reade on Jan 26, 2012 16:04:42 GMT -5
For Brynn it was easier to talk about Merlin, as she still saw him on the same level that she was. He might be Arthur’s personal manservant, but he still was a servant, and he was her friend. That made him so much easier to refer to than any other acquaintance she and Sir Percival had in common, even Gwaine. With Gwaine the problem was that every female companion of his was considered one of his flirt interest, simply because he was such a womanizer. Brynn however was just a friend, almost like an adopted sister, but she wondered what Percival would think of her now.
”Well then again, Merlin is as loyal and good-natured a person as you find one!” Brynn felt the need to come to her friend’s defense. “I’m sure without him our king would be a lot worse off, despite his clumsiness sometimes. They’ve grown on each other in the last four years, that’s really visible.”
That had been quite the peculiar day so far indeed. Maybe she should get away from her routine more often, if that was what came out of it. Brynn had just made the acquaintance of two really nice people in a row she otherwise would not have even dared to talk to. She could only wonder what more this day held in store for her. Her geese were as impatient as she had expected them to be, and she had to fight a short turf war with Martin before he finally agreed to forgive her. At least they had not started a fight amongst each other yet in all their boredom, that was something indeed.
A little time passed where Brynn sat on her usual hayball, watching her geese idly, and calling them back whenever they tottered away too far. She hardly ever needed her whip out here, they were far more occupied with eating and exploring than teaming up amongst each other.
Then suddenly, Brynn saw a figure walking towards her across the meadows, and the nearer said figure came, the clearer it became it was none other than Sir Percival. Surprised as can be, Brynn rose from her seat to greet him while he was approaching.
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Post by Brynn Reade on Jan 25, 2012 18:51:09 GMT -5
Brynn could only agree to that. Camelot seemed like a real trouble magnet sometimes, but then it was maybe just because every evil sorceror in the book thought it funny to vent his spleen on Camelot and its people, because Uther had banned magic. Didn’t they see that openly showing the bad side of magic would never make the king change his mind? Not that she thought it could be done anyway. Camelot would never allow magic back in the people’s lives…maybe not even with Arthur now being their king.”Tell me about it, I’ve grown up here”, she sighed. “There might have been calmer times once, and I still blame Merlin for it all”, she answered with a light chuckle. “Ever since he came here, Camelot became even more crazy, he must be such a trouble magnet it even extends on us!”
She nodded contently, even though she was not sure if Percival would really stay true to his word. Not that she doubted his honesty, but such an information was very valuable, once given. Well, only if she witnessed the knight slowly sneaking down here, one by one, she would know it had been wrong to tell Percival about the Golden Hour. And then there would be still enough time to worry about how to keep the knights away from the food anyway. Brynn doubted an appeal would help. Especially the young knights just seemed to be always hungry.
Sir Percival seemed genuinely crestfallen and for a moment Brynn really felt bad for leaving him like that, telling him she should be somewhere else. That it was true didn’t change the fact she rather wished she had not declined his kind offer. But then, it was not befitting for a goosemaiden sharing her breakfast with a Knight, however kind he might be. Brynn wasn’t even sure she would have accepted the same offer coming from Gwaine, just because they were more like friends. Just because commoners had been knighted, it didn’t mean you could throw every rule in the book overboard!
”There is no need to apologize, Mylord”, she assured the knight with a smile. “If I hadn’t these beasts to look after, I would have accepted your offer gladly. Don’t think it does have anything to do with you.” Well, truth be told it had, but Brynn was far too polite to admit that. With one last curtsy, she turned around to climb the steps that led from the kitchen towards the entrance hall and then towards the courtyards were her geese waited near the stables. “And also no need for thanks. Enjoy your breakfast. Sir Percival!”
Sorry she’s so uncooperative ^^ how about we skip forward and he just seeks her out in the meadows? Would that be something Perce does?
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Post by Brynn Reade on Jan 25, 2012 18:34:15 GMT -5
Oooh what an excellent idea  It'll be great to maybe get some new ideas on what to read next, time permit!
Well,I have to say, I'm the absolute Historic novels and Fantasy fan.
I grew up with Marion Zimmer Bradley and her Avalon books, then I read the Cadfael novels by Ellis Peters and I soon also discovered Tolkien for myself. I have read almost everything by him, including the Silmarillion and Sigurd and Gudrun.
Then, I love the classic Gothic Fiction novels, like Dracula and Picture of Dorian Gray.
For me, I don't think there is a certain style, but I would read a good historic novel over a contemporary lovestory any day.
What I recently discovered for myself is James Joyce, this man is simply a genius! |
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Post by Brynn Reade on Jan 25, 2012 18:17:57 GMT -5
Meghan Reade was not easily surprised, generally, but when her daughter just said she needed to ask her something, in a very earnest tone, she quickly wondered what could have come to pass. Brynn was a grown up woman now, and usually she didn’t much ask for advice these days, as she was known for thinking things through herself and come to the best solution in the respective circumstances. Was something wrong? Her mother instinct was alert right away. Maybe there was something going on with Alex? She hardly had seen the boy around the last few weeks, he seemed very busy with some family issues, and as talkative as he usually was, he didn’t let anything slip about it. Any problems however, had to be discussed in the kitchens, as Meghan had to look after a broth she had been making. No one else really would be in the kitchen at this hour, so it was not like she would force Brynn to speak in public about any problems she might have.
”Now what is it?” she asked, trying to keep an overly concerned tone out of her voice. She knew very well, Brynn was too old to still appreciate being put under the wings of a mother hen, and even though everything in Meghan yearned to shield her girl against everything going on in the bad world outside, she had seen with her own eyes how Brynn had mastered these evils single-handed or with the help of friends. She was no longer a child. And maybe what she was asking about, wouldn’t even concern her. It was enough to make the kitchen maid rather curious.
Brynn tried her best to stop worrying and get it over and done with. It was not even a delicate question to ask Meghan, and all she could really say was ‘no’. Still, somehow Brynn would hate to be the cause of more worrying for Lady Caitrin, and worry she would if the midwife did not make it in time and there was no one else. No stress was any good for a woman in her state! Every little bad thing could be tipping the balance and then the baby would come too soon – and entirely without any professional help! Maybe she was worrying too much already, and it shouldn’t be her concern really, but in offering her mother’s help, Brynn had practically MADE it her concern. And that was what her mother probably would accuse her of: getting entangled into things that should not be for her to worry about. The high stayed the high, and the low stayed the low. Period.
”Well…”, she started hesitantly, wondering how best to put it. “When I jumped in for Idris’ work this morning, I encountered a woman… she’s highly advanced in pregnancy, and the baby could come any day…but the midwife is ill.” Yes, that might be the right way, pulling her mother’s heartstrings before even mentioning said woman was of noble birth.
But then, her mother was not easily fooled. “Oh, really? I don’t even recall one of the maids—“ she stopped in mid sentence, and as Brynn followed her gaze she understood at once what had made Meghan pause. None other than Gwaine was in the kitchen, just about to take a bite from a crispy loaf of bread he had apparently snatched. The two women, though seeing the same thing, reacted quite differently. Brynn merely rolled her eyes and shook her head, wondering what it was with Gwaine sometimes, and if Percival had given him a hint, whilst Meghan Reade actually put her hands on her hips and loudly cleared her throat.
”Sir Gwaine! How nice of you to drop by in the kitchens!”
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Post by Brynn Reade on Jan 22, 2012 10:23:22 GMT -5
The more seconds trickled by, the surer Brynn became that leaving was her only option, or at least the only option she would be happy with. It was dangerous, yes, but Brynn was not called very considerate for nothing. She had thought this through for many hours, and now her decision was firmly set. She also was called stubborn once she had made up her mind. It would not be easy, but she still thought to have a chance, as little people knew about the old passageway in the parapet. Even if Morgana knew them, the chances of her telling the guards to keep an extra eye on them were slim. Brynn’s only problem were the regular guards on the walls. It was no coincidence the meadows below the walls were so free of cover, after all, they should make it difficult for approaching armies and easy for those on the wall. Principally, Brynn had nothing against that, but right now she would wish for a little cover. If someone on the walls saw them running towards the woods, they probably would open fire without hesitating. Or they would send men with horses after them… In usual times, Brynn knew the walking ways of the guards very well,as her father was one of them. But now? All patterns were off.
That wouldn’t stop her though. Nothing could. Brynn Reade had made up her mind. One thing she had been afraid of was what these rogues might do to their geese, but maybe that was another reason for best getting out of here. If she witnessed something happening to them, she would no doubt try and interfere… and that was not exactly following the idea of keeping your head low. She could already hear their boisterous laughter as they made fun of the ‘feisty goosemaiden’… no, better not give that any closer thought.
Idris slowly seemed to change her mind at least. Before, she head tried to convince Brynn that she was completely crazy, but now she was asking constructive questions. If there was any loophole in the far from watertight plan she had thought up, Idris would find it and rub her stubborn nose in it, no doubt of it.
But she did no such thing. “Wha—“ was all Brynn got out before she was dragged along and stumbled beside Idris through the corridor. What was going on here?! Did Idris really intend to go with her? It might be only logical after what had just passed between them, but still, it was madness! Idris had no reason to go out there, she would be alright staying put, as she had no one to think of, but herself.
”Idris, are you crazy??!!” she hissed, afraid to let her voice raise any higher. “One person sneaking out can be overlooked, but two?? I don’t want you to get in trouble because of me!”
The bad conscience now weighed heavily down on Brynn’s shoulders, but she knew Idris enough to know that there would be no arguing with her. Idris must be the most stubborn girl on the planet!
Brynn’s eyes and ears were alert to the utmost attention as both girls made their way down towards the courtyard. Hopefully no one would get suspicious just yet.
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Post by Brynn Reade on Jan 21, 2012 15:00:44 GMT -5
From what Brynn had already guessed,it didn’t come as much a surprise when Lady Caitrin told her King Arthur himself had arranged these particular settings. There was much consideration behind every guest that resided in the castle, Brynn knew that, and many of these decisions had to be felled by none other than the king himself. Also the tone in which the lady talked about Arthur and her former remark about him suggested indeed that they seemed to be close. Not as close as Arthur and Gwen of course, but there must be some mutual interests and happenings behind their friendship. It was not her place to ask further, however, so she merely inclined her head and said: “A very wise decision indeed. King Arthur is a good man, and I am glad you do benefit from it in such a way.”Brynn could only imagine how she would feel being with her first child and shortly before the actual birth. Anything to rest her mind would be welcome then indeed, though she doubted Lady Caitrin was as much of a worrier and a thinker than Brynn was. Alex often said she must be unique in that, because if everyone thought so much of the ‘ifs’ and ‘maybes’ the world would be full of people who never spoke and acted, just stood somewhere, thinking.
The baby seemed very active indeed, and Brynn mused with an inward smile if it maybe took after its mother there a bit. She couldn’t remember any pregnant women really being kicked so often in a row, but then her experiences with pregnant women was far and few between anyway. Once again she had to admit that taking up Idris’ job for one day hadn’t been such a bad idea at all. She was not only having a nice conversation, she was also getting insights she otherwise would be lacking. Who knew for what it could prove useful one day. Not only to have a lady like Caitrin as an well-meaning acquaintance, but also if she ever should need knowledge about pregnancies. Who knew when it would be her time? Of course, Alex would have to marry her first, but in Brynn’s eyes that had long ceased to be a matter of ‘if’, it was only the question of ‘when’.
Brynn felt relieved that Lady Caitrin didn’t dismiss the suggestion right away, she really seemed to be different. Of course Brynn could not speak for her mother, but then she knew Meghan Reade’s big heart, and knew if she put it the right way, her mother would not refuse. If it was a noble woman’s wish she should help her, who was she to refuse anyway? She would do what she had been asked to do, and she would do it gladly. It was all a matter of how best to break it to her. Brynn’s mother was a kitchen maid, not a midwife, that would be her first objection. Being busy was another thing, and Lady Caitrin had rightfully pointed that out. Every servant in Camelot was always busy, apart from those with such a day-filling task as herself. But then, if Brynn and her mother explained the situation to the cook, he was sure to understand. If not… then maybe Brynn would offer to take her mother’s place while she was occupied. That was only just.
”I will ask her tonight, Mylady!” she promised her with a smile that bordered on relieved. “My mother will probably decline the payment, though, just that I have warned you beforehand.” It was true, Meghan Reade hated nothing more than being given something she didn’t feel she deserved. Just like her husband, in so many aspects.
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Post by Brynn Reade on Jan 20, 2012 10:26:49 GMT -5
It still felt a little odd to take a knight’s hand and shake it in an almost amiable greeting, like they were equals, but then Brynn reminded herself that her friendship with Gwaine had also started this way and was now the most natural thing in the world for her. Gwaine had not ceased to be a knight in her eyes, but the status difference that created had simply vanished, and now they were almost like brother and sister. It would be too much to assume this would happen here any time soon, but then… anything could happen. If Brynn had learned anything by living in Camelot all her life, then that. So she took his hand after just a short moment of hesitation, and then shook it. “A pleasure to meet you, too!”Brynn couldn’t suppress a smile at hearing that Sir Percival seemed to know her father so well. She didn’t know that! But then John Reade never talked much about his worl – or in general.”So Camelot is safe once more?” she asked with a little grin.
Oh dear… had she now given away a kitchen secret? Brynn bit her lip and inwardly rolled her eyes at herself. Now that would be the day, if from now on the kitchen would be raided by the rascals of the knights, because this became common knowledge. The servants would have to look after the food and in consequence for some of them the golden hour would be history. Great!
”No, Gwaine would probably say: ‘What’s the fun in that if no one’s there.” She mused, giving away how well she actually knew him. She was not sure if Percival would know about that.
Hoping that she had not irritated him now with her refusal, Brynn hastened to explain. “I’m the goosemaiden of Camelot, Sir. I look after the geese and lead them out to the meadows below the city walls, where they are most of the day. I am already very late, as they normally get out right after breakfast, and they can be a little moody when things don’tgo their way.”
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Post by Brynn Reade on Jan 19, 2012 18:02:15 GMT -5
Brynn realized she had startled the new girl, and she instantly felt bad. Goodness gracious, that could turn out dangerous with a knife in hand! She could have cut herself! But then, she was probably thinking again too much and in to horrible thoughts. Alex would call that her drama brain, always thinking too much into her own actions and what they could cause with others, especially harm. Brynn knew herself she needed to stop that, but she had been born a thinker, and she would probably die one. Sometimes overthinking things could help you preventing mistakes to be made, but sometimes it simply turned out to be annoying.
Wiping her brow she took a moment to examine what the new kitchen girl was actually working at. Potatoes. Oh dear, that was one of the things Brynn liked least in kitchen work. The paring often enough sticked to your fingers and because she was not doing this daily, Brynn still had to find the knack to make it easier for herself.
She nodded and smiled gently when the girl told her about the knives. The poor thing seemed quite nervous, no wonder if no one really found the time to introduce her to anything! That it would be her task, not even being a true kitchen maid herself, striked odd to Brynn, but she was not opposed to the idea. Maybe she should talk to Alex later, and she if he could take the girl a little under his wing – in total innocence of course! The last thing either Brynn or the girl needed was one of Alex’ flowery flirting attempts. But she doubted he would do that… she was already worrying too much again.
”I think I know where they are, no worries”, she assured her and went off to retrieve one of the knives usually used for peeling.
Then she returned to the sack of potatoes and the working girl again, bending down to take a few potatoes out for herself. Oh well, she would just do this. She had asked for it after all, litterally.
Tesslin… that was quite a pretty name this girl was sporting, Brynn liked it immediately. It was simple, yet a little playful.
”It’s nice to meet you, Tesslin”, she replied and inclined her head, taking up the first potato. “I am Brynn Reade, the goosemaiden. I usually don’t deal with vegetables often, so you must forgive me if I make a fool of myself.”
She took another look at the girl, wondering where she came from. Had she been in Camelot all her life? Something in her striked familiar, as if they both had passed each other by on random occasion, with nothing but fleeting glances. Oh well, time would tell, Tesslin surely wasn’t keen on being interrogated like that.
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Post by Brynn Reade on Jan 19, 2012 16:14:05 GMT -5
For once Brynn was glad to return into the thick walls of the castle at sunset, as she normally rather would have liked to spend all day and even the night outside, far away from enclosing walls. Her claustrophobia had not been getting worse lately, and there were times she didn’t even think about all those tons of stone above and around her – still, an open sky was always to be preferred. Not today though, and the answer was a simple one: Camelot had been graced with an unusually hot and humid day, where the air seemed to hover completely still, pressing down on everyone like a thick and heavy blanket and almost no breeze brought relief for those having to be outside. The majority of the day Brynn had spent under the old lime tree beside the makeshift goose stall on the meadows, trying not to move or if she had to as little as possible.
Every now and then her thoughts returned to her poor father, probably dying of desiccation or melting in his chainmail. Hopefully he was to be stand guard inside the castle or at least in some shady corner. She didn’t even dare to think about the poor souls manning the walls and the parapet… they probably fainted in masses!
Oh, and Alex father, the baker… being inside the bakehouse on a normal day was trying, but on a day such as this it must resemble the forecourt of hell! Even her geese seemed too tired and lazy to think up any mischief and for that Brynn had been more than grateful. It would have been too much to think up words to scold them, let alone get up to separate them.
But now she entered the kitchen which was, if humid from all the steam, still colder than the afternoon outside had been. Taking a deep breath, Brynn let her eyes wander over the many familiar faces, some greeting her with a smile, some waving. She sauntered over to her mother who was busy pealing and cutting carrots and aspirated a kiss on her temple, not wanting to disturb her.
”Is there anything I could do to help? I hardly moved the whole day from the heat.”
Meghan Reade cocked her head for a moment, then shrugged. “Not with me, Goosey, but maybe she could use some help?” the kitchen maid jerked her head at an unfamiliar figure, a quite pretty girl Brynn had never seen in the kitchen before. “She’s new and we’re all too busy to help her much. Maybe she’ll enjoy the company.”
Brynn nodded, and made her way over to the working girl, clearing her throat a little awkwardly. She was usually not one to start conversations, but she didn’t like feeling useless.
”Hey… I wonder if you need some help? I just got in from my day’s work and feel like using my hands for a little.”
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Post by Brynn Reade on Jan 19, 2012 4:45:42 GMT -5
Was it just her imagination or were the nobles she ran across today really so out of the norm she was used to? This was the second time in just a short time she was asked about her family. Most of the time, servants were there to be seen, not heard, ready to answer to every call they were given. Brynn herself might be a little out of that system due to her work outside the castle, but she knew she had been born to this kind of responsibility. Who she was didn’t matter so much, just what she was. There was nothing wrong with that in Brynn’s eyes. Everyone had their place in life and their own responsibilities.
“My name is Brynn Reade, Sir“, she replied with a tentative smile. “And yes, my father is one of the guards. John Reade is his name.” She only nodded to his explanation, grateful for it, but not feeling it her right to comment on anything like that. She would probably ask her father later, or she wouldn’t.
Sir Percival’s explanataion just underlined what Brynn had thought earlier. It must be with him like it was with Gwaine, who Brynn thought a dear friend. Their rise in ‘power’ had not affected their natural ways, and it was quite refreshing, even though it was a little hard to get used to.
“It’s what they call the ‚golden hour‘“, she explained with a little chuckle. “The precious time between breakfast and lunch when there is nigh to no work to be done in the kitchen. Though that usually doesn’t apply to me.“
The surprise returned immediately when Sir Percival now announced he wanted to cook and asked her if she wanted breakfast as well. A light raising of her brows was the only sign of how bemused and aghast Brynn really was, but then she was never one to openly voice her feelings, especially not in front of strangers. If he really wanted to do this, she would not stop him, though slowly she realized again what she wanted to be doing right now. Her geese! If she didn’t look after them soon, they would probably tear their stall or each other to shreds. They were not used to be cooped up for so long after the day had started.
“That’s very kind of you to offer Sir“, she replied, slightly shifting on her feet. “But I don’t think I have the time fort hat.“
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Post by Brynn Reade on Jan 18, 2012 16:42:57 GMT -5
Sir Percival couldn’t have surprised Brynn more with his unexpected reaction, and she quickly looked up from her task to look at him with a slightly amazed expression, before she picked up the remaining shards, wrapping them in the wet cloth to do away later. Someone probably should tell the cook, before he put the blame on anyone of the innocent kitchen servants. He was usually a very amiable man but as soon as his secret stack of cider was in peril, he changed. Everyone knew how to best steer out of his way when that happened, and Brynn didn’t want to take the responsibilities for bad air in the kitchens. They all had enough work to do without it.
She had to smile though at the rather audible grumbling his stomach gave, which proved that he at least had a true reason for his theft. Not that a Knight of Camelot needed any reason though. They could do so many things without having to justify their actions, but that was not an entirely wrong thing in Brynn’s eyes. They kept Camelot safe and free from threats and war, so they surely could demand a little extra on the side… and even more so if he had in fact missed breakfast.
”I recall an incident in the early morning”, she remarked without thinking. “My father was raised before dawn, I heard him.” Then it occurred to her that she probably should not talk about such things in front of a knight, so she simply said: “Well, you could have simply ordered someone to bring you food.No need to go down here yourself.”
Really, in his awkwardness, the big man almost could be called cute. This was the exact face her little brother sometimes used when he was caught doing something he shouldn’t have, like running and waving around with his wooden sword to chase off bad sorcerors and other foes, nearly falling over working servants. This grin made it easier for Brynn to ease up around Sir Percival, though she still stayed respectfully reserved. Without another word, she stood up and went to a certain cupboard on the wall where she knew cheese was kept. She took a piece of it and then went next to the hearth, where in a basket full of straw, fresh eggs were kept,some still warm and presented it all to him with a little curtsy.
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Post by Brynn Reade on Jan 17, 2012 16:00:45 GMT -5
Brynn merely nodded at Lady Caitrin’s final decision that the meeting between them was settled. It was the lady’s call now, and Brynn would wait when or if even it happened. Not that she doubted Lady Caitrin would stay true to her word, but Brynn could imagine that a lot would happen after the baby’s birth that would make the world seem like an entirely new place. Even if she appointed a nurse for her child, Lady Caitrin soon would find her time would be circling around it and around little else. It had been like that with Brynn’s little siblings, even though she had watched over them often to make it easier for her mother from day one. Having a child and working at the same time, with a father that was on guard duty every day at the oddest hours – it had not been easy. At least Lady Caitrin would be spared that.Then again, why was she thinking so much about her anyway? Brynn had to smile inwardly at herself. Once again she simply thought too much and her worrying now included people she shouldn’t even worry about, like Lady Caitrin. As a noble, she probably could look after herself quite well, or at least had the means to get looked after.
Oh, dear goodness, she was right! Brynn had noted that fact only subconsciously when coming here, but now there really seemed to be some higher meaning behind Lady Caitrin residing inside these chambers of all.
”So that was intended then, I see”, she mused with a smile. “Yes, Gaius presence and knowledge can be very calming indeed.” Though, he probably only would be called as a last ditch attempt to turn the tide, should anything go wrong. It might be a stupid superstition or simply practicability, but it was frowned upon to have men even near where a mother gave birth to her child. Superstitious probably because someone thought it bad luck, but the more practal reason was simply that men often couldn’t deal with the hustle and bustle that just seemed to be the norm around births. Especially the fathers-to-be often couldn’t bear to see their wives in so much pain and fathers weren’t any better. Only women, who had been through this themselves or would one day go through it were thought suitable to witness the imminent birth.
The question of the lacking midwife was still looming in the air, and Brynn could understand it made Lady Caitrin nervous. She hadn’t intended to cause the mother-to-be any discomfort or fuel her panic, but the goosemaiden simply believed that something as severe as a birth should truly not be done without the professional help of a midwife or mother.
For a moment Brynn’s thoughts wandered as Lady Caitrin told her about a friend that now was far away, and she wondered who that might be, but then it was not of her business in any way, and so she focussed again on matters at hand. Did she know someone? Caitrin sounded desperate now, and it might be that mild desperation and the soft bond that had been forming between the two women earlier that made Brynn voice the otherwise unthinkable.
”I would know… maybe of one”, she began hesitantly. “I told you my mother has been through many births… and she is a strong, yet calm woman. Please don’t think I want to praise her, Mylady, but this is a simple fact.” Indeed it was. Meaghan Reade had a big heart and she was the typical mother hen. If anything, she could make anyone feel safe. “I could ask her, if you wouldn’t mind…”
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Post by Brynn Reade on Jan 17, 2012 15:57:17 GMT -5
Gwaine probably didn’t know it, but the more he tried to look innocent, the less he could fool Brynn. Maybe he could fool other women, because they were not miraculously partially immune to his charms, but Brynn had always been able to read her friend well. It caused her to give a dry chuckle, seeing his best efforts to appear less the rascal than he was. For the world’s sake, Brynn really hoped that Gwaine would never change. His thoughtful behavior had scared her a little. Of course Gwaine had the right to mood changes like everyone else, but the world needed to look very dull indeed for Gwaine to lose his wit and his cheery outlook on life. Brynn had never been there of course, but she was sure, Gwaine would even laugh in the face of danger, cheering his fellow knights up or winding them up in the most tense situations. That might be annoying to some, but she was sure they also appreciated it. Sometimes people took life far too serious, and Brynn knew she was one of them. Gwaine’s jests and jokes helped her often enough to see the fun in life, just like Alex helped her to see life from its loving side.
Oh dear, Gwaine and Alex having a conversation about this? No never! And if Brynn had to gag Gwaine to prevent this from happening! Groaning she threw her head back and stared up at the sky, before moving her gaze towards her dear friend again, as if she just had asked for heavenly support.
”Goodness, will you leave the poor guy alone!” she demanded, but a smile crept over her face nevertheless. “We’re talking of bridges we most likely will never cross anyway, and you should know that’s not a good battle tactic, Mylord Knight!”
Not that she didn’t appreciate this concern anyway, but… some jokes could just be put too far for comfort and now Brynn feared Alex would be the victim of all of this. Sometimes talking about nonexisting problems made them appear.
He might say he would mention it, but Brynn was almost sure he never would. That showed in how quickly he tried to change subjects, now this talk about his emotions seemed thoroughly through. Typical. But oh well, she had done what she could, and maybe it had helped him after all. Brynn dearly hoped so, but she couldn’t be sure. Who knew if any of her words had any effect at all, that was the thing about too many words. Her father always said you better said one word too little than one too many and made up for the rest in deeds. Well, no, correction: he didn’t SAY that, he lived it. For John Reade words were well-nigh unnecessary. Brynn wasn’t sure if she ever had heard him say how much his family meant to him, but that was of no consequence. They all know they meant more than the world to him. Gyrth and Elinor usually talked more than all the three other Reade’s combined. Maybe they would turn out like that one day too, or maybe they would not. It might not be so bad to have a few more talkative members of the family after all.
Now she was asked how she was. That was an easy question to answer indeed. In Brynn’s little world everything was as it should be.
”You didn’t miss out on much”, she told him with a soft smile. “My routine has been as usual and for now Camelot seems normal enough. Gyrth got kicked by a horse the other day, as he was playing in the stables as usual, but apart from that, we’re all well. You keep us safe enough, the famous Knights of Camelot.” That was said half way between a praise and a tease. After all, Gwaine’s ego was already big enough as it was.
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Post by Brynn Reade on Jan 17, 2012 6:39:54 GMT -5
Brynn’s rather tentative clearing of the throat had quite the surprisingly strong effect, which proved the goosemaiden right: the man in front of her had all the signs of someone being caught red-handed, and he also had already collected quite a good meal: a whole loaf of bread and a bottle of cider. Brynn guessed the cider was even from the cook’s personal secret store. Maybe she could ask the man later where he had found it, that would be quite the useful information she could trade to Alex for example. Alex would die for cider.
This cider however would not be drunken by anyone but the kitchen cats, as it had plummeted to the ground and made for a very interesting floor decoration. Served him just right, Brynn thought, as she suppressed a sigh. It was not like anyone had to starve in Camelot.
But as soon as the man turned around to reveal his face, Brynn’s thoughts and demeanor changed entirely. The big figure had seemed familiar before, but only the face provided the missing link. “Sir Percival!” the goosemaiden exclaimed, rather aghast. She had heard stories about the young knights often enough stealing food from the kitchen, sometimes even under the nose oft he working servants and cooks, but usually that happened under Gwaine’s leadership, as he was by far the biggest rascal of them all.
As Sir Percival spoke about cleaning the mess up he had created, Brynn shook her head and quickly grabbed for one oft he towels drying over the huge water bucket in which the dishes were washed – Alex’ former work. “Let me do that, Sir Percival”, she offered and scurried towards him, crouching down to wipe up the spilled cider at his feet and clear away the shards. He might have been a commoner once, but now he was a Knight of Camelot and as such above her. It was not his task to clean up messes.
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Post by Brynn Reade on Jan 16, 2012 10:52:18 GMT -5
It was one of those rare times in the day when the kitchen seemed well-nigh deserted. Breakfast for the royal family and their noble guests had been prepared and served, and the preparation for lunch and dinner had been done as far as they could be done. Now every serving maid and every cook knew what to do with those few precious moments where they were not working. They left the kitchens like rats left a sinking ship and either lay down for a little, after having been up before dawn and day, or spent some time with their respective families.Some even had more than just this task in the kitchens and now finally found time to do their other work.
Brynn normally would have been out in the meadows long before that time, but today she had been asked to step in for Idris in changing the sheets in a noblewoman’s bedchamber. That unusual task for her had turned out to be quite the interesting experience, as the lady in question had been present and very interested in an almost informal conversation. So the task had taken longer than expected and Brynn knew her geese were already itching to get out.
But before she would free them from their stall, she first wanted to grab a little crumb of bread to eat. But when entering the kitchen fully, she saw she was not the only one here after all. The big frame of a man was just about to do something that really wasn’t very nice. Should she interfere? Brynn knew it could get her in trouble, as most people didn’t like to be caught in the act, stealing food, but then she could not just retreat and do nothing.
In the end, she decided on a subtle approach. Not calling the man out on it directly, but giving him time and opportunity to vindicate himself.
She cleared her throat.
Tag: Perce
Timeline: three months after the s4 finale (hope that's okay ^^)
Time of Day: Midmorning
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Post by Brynn Reade on Jan 14, 2012 18:32:17 GMT -5
Whatever Brynn had thought to get out of this conversation, surely not such a completely surprising compliment! She, worthwile company? That truly must be a while since anyone who’s eyes were not blinded by love had said something similar. Maybe it had something to do with her usual lack of company? Hm… in any way, Brynn was positively surprised, and couldn’t quite fight down a blush either.
”Why thank you Mylady”, she said with a little curtsy and smoothened out the sheets in an attempt to occupy her hands after that. “I shall look forward to that day then!” Hopefully Martin and Queenie wouldn’t have one of their bad-feather-days, like Brynn was used to call them. On these days, they kept on bickering from dawn till dusk, and made everyone join in their fight. Or they ganged up on others, Flowfeather for example, the weakest of the herd. She really hoped for her fosterlings to be halfway presentable on the day Caitrin arrived.
”You should find me in the meadows just below the outermost city gate.” She added for good measure.
Oh… well Lady Caitrin being the youngest explained a little of the unease she was undoubtedly feeling. Someone who hadn’t even been present on any birth at all really could only rely on hearsay and sometimes very scary stories about the actual moment of birth. Brynn would never figure out why some elder women liked the scare the younger ones and surpass each other with the most gruesome incidents they could think of. So many things apparently were bad luck on a birth, and to avoid them all was well-nigh impossible. Brynn would beware of mentioning anything like that towards the Lady Caitrin of course. The least thing the expecting mother now needed was more sorrow than she already had.
”I am sure everything will be fine though”, she assured her confidently, feeling odd in this role. Was this really one of those rare occasions when a maiden could be called more versed than a married woman, just because she had been present at a few births?
It was quite shocking to hear as well that Lady Caitrin didn’t seem to have any female relatives in close proximity, even though she had just said to be the youngest child. That either meant her whole family was dead, or she was not from around here. Either way it was very unfortunate. Without even wanting it, Brynn felt reminded of the first birth she could even remember, as she had been nothing but a scared child of seven. Her mother had born a baby that was already dead and she had been losing a lot of blood. If not for the calming and knowledgeable presence of the midwife, Brynn was sure Meaghan Reade would have died.
”I wish I could help you, Mylady”, Brynn confessed with a sigh.”But sadly the midwife that helped me and my siblings to come into this world died three years ago. But then… any woman who has been through labour before could be of help.”
Surely, Lady Caitrin must know someone?! For a moment, Brynn had the crazy idea of suggesting her own mother as help, but then that would hardly be appropriate. Meaghan Reade might have three succesful births behind her, but surely a noblewoman would not want a lowly kitchen maid to help her in this precarious hour.
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Post by Brynn Reade on Jan 14, 2012 16:28:54 GMT -5
The thought that Lady Caitrin really wanted to meet her geese ‘in person’ so to say couldn’t have surprised Brynn more, but then it had already been evident in her growing interest towards the animals. Once again the goosemaiden had to admit that the lady she was dealing with here now was quite unconventional. Off the top of her head Brynn couldn’t think of many who would want to go down to the meadows to… watch a few geese feeding and going about their usual business only they could fathom. Brynn often enough was nothing but spectator and sometimes mediator in their conflicts and whatever they were up to. And now Lady Caitrin wanted to see that too? It was quite remarkable! With a little smile she thought about what the geese would probably think of that. By now they had entertained quite the cross-section of Camelot as their guests without probably really making much of it. They had seen a Knight of Camelot in Gwaine, servants like Alex and Merlin, and once even the king himself.
”Of course, Mylady, after the birth probably would be better”, she agreed, inclining her head with a soft smile. “And I am sure my geese will feel very honored to entertain such a noble and interested guest amongst them. I for myself surely do!”It was quite reassuring to hear the calming words out of Lady Caitrin’s mouth and Brynn found she could breathe a little easier after she had been told Arthur would probably not mind. It didn’t surprise her though that the lady spoke of him as a dear friend: surely if they hadn’t been friends he would not have offered Caitrin the shelter of the guest quarters for the time of her pregnancy and imminent birth. Btynn might not know much about politics, but she knew it was quite a privilege to be housed in the castle over a longer period of time. King Arthur may be changing a few customs around Camelot, but surely that would remain the same.
”Well, it is surely not my place to judge any of our king’s actions, so if he puts up with Merlin’s peculiarities, I think we should do. He’s got a heart of gold hidden beneath it all anyway.”
Brynn herself didn’t feel like she was much of an expert on babytalk, as she had never been through it herself. It might be all well and good, trying to rid a pregnant woman of her unstandable fear, but then she had to be careful not promising something she could not keep. Every birth was different after all, and she lacked the experience to really tell what was usual and what not. Surely, the women down in the kitchen often talked about these things, but Brynn didn’t help them down there on a daily occurrence, and as the topic of pregnancy and childbirth had never been of any personal interest, she most of the time had stopped listening after a while. Her mother would be able to say all those things which so much more confidence and wisdom.
”Yes, my father takes it with good graces”, she replied honestly, but then thought it might be better to voice her own concerns. “Mylady, of all I am telling you right now about children and birth, I am not quite to be called an expert, as I am not married myself. My mother for example could tell it all so much better, as she has been through it herself. All I can rely on is hearsay.”
She was quite shocked to hear about these bad news. If Lady Caitrin’s baby could really come any day now it would be truly the worst time for her midwife to be ill! No woman should be without the help of a knowing and calming presence in that special time!
”Alone?! No, you shouldn’t do this, Mylady, under no circumstances!” For someone usually calm, Brynn now sounded very urgent. “Isn’t there any woman in your family who could help you? Or couldn’t the midwife appoint someone else?”
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Post by Brynn Reade on Jan 13, 2012 16:38:34 GMT -5
Gwaine probably had the time of his life playing with her like that, and even Brynn had to admit it was quite amusing. That was probably how an elder brother would act, and she experienced that sometimes when her cousin came to visit, but that was only a rare occasion. No, this was nothing but fun, and she had no difficulty playing along. It might be silly and leading nowhere, but sometimes even Brynn needed a holidays from her role as responsible eldest daughter.
”Hey!” she exclaimed in fake indignation, but then her facial expression softened into almost nonchalant one. “Fair enough”, she agreed with a very dignified voice she had often overheard noblewomen using. “Let’s call it quits. For now!”
Brynn was all but sure Alex would not like the idea of having neither a guard nor a knight of Camelot after him, so he would probably behave if only for that, but nevertheless, the thought of his face when she told him said message would be worth the irritation this might cause. Alex knew about her friendship with Gwaine, and they already had had some half-serious banters about it. Hearing this promise now would only continue the long lasting banter of ‘Brynn getting involved with a knight and abandoning her poor dishwasher.’
”I’m sure to tell him, mark my words!” she finished her line of thinking.
And again they were on the subject of jealousy. For something that wasn’t even there, this topic received quite some attention. Maybe too much? Brynn shrugged it off inwardly, as there was really nothing to worry about. Gwaine would probably like it, if he made Alex at least a little jealous, as he was still quite the lady’s man. It wouldn’t hurt to spark a little territorial thinking in other guys for their girl’s, at least that was how Brynn interpreted his line of thinking.
”If he thinks he has to be jealous it’s his own fault entirely”, Brynn said while she followed Gwaine’s lead into a direction where less people where bustling about. She liked that better as well, never having been one for large crowds unless the occasion clearly called for it. “But I’m sure he will not be. He knows me too well.”
Maybe he was right. Maybe Gwaine and her should leave that subject now and focus on the present and future. Too much living in the past wasn’t good as well. Alex had tried without end to rid her from her hatred for Morgana, telling her her evil doings were in the past now and that she never would take Camelot again. The inner wounds and the shock just had taken longer time to heal than the crossbow wound she had received. Maybe it was the same with Gwaine. He was here now, he was a Knight of Camelot and that was what he referred himself to. Where he had been born was of no consequence, at least not now Arthur was king. It took some time to get used to these kinds of novelties, and maybe Gwaine’s confusion was also part of that learning process.
”Yes, true, that might be so”, Brynn agreed thoughtfully. “Everyone here knows you as Gwaine, Knight of Camelot. Since Arthur has become king, lineage is not so very important anymore, as Sir Percival and Sir Elyan also have no noble background. It has been a clean cut in history, and it might take some time to get used to.” Another thought crossed her mind and she had to smile.
”You know… you are afraid that the other knights might think you soft, but… did it ever occur to you, your fellow knights Elyan and Percival might have identity problems too? You men just never talk about such things, and that’s why you feel alone and awkward with it, instead of seeking help with someone who might feel the same way.”
That had been a long speech for Brynn, and she was surprised herself where it had come from. She just hoped it helped someway, even though she just couldn’t imagine the knights teaming up to talk about problems.
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Post by Brynn Reade on Jan 12, 2012 18:14:55 GMT -5
Brynn thought that probably very little people could say for themselves they had ‘experience’ with geese. Many people liked to eat them, fewer knew they were good guards for a house or a manor, because they cackled and charged at every soul they did not know, be they human or not. Geese were probably the least trusting of all animals. But even fewer knew that not all geese were nasty little beasts who could cause serious injury with their sharp beaks should you come too close, and those who didn’t know probably also weren’t interested. Why think about the personality of a goose which you were to eat someday anyway. But that was were they were wrong. Brynn knew that a herd of geese had a very difficult dynamic in itself and that it depended entirely on the personalities of each goose. Every time the cook wanted one or two for a feast, Brynn did not only have to consider which ones would make a good roast, but also which ones she could afford to take out of the herd without damaging the balance too bad. Martin and Queenie were sacred of course, without one or the other, immediate chaos would ensue.
”Maybe it’s good you didn’t have much experience with them yet”, she joked and smiled. “Because usually strangers make only bad experiences with geese. But then, you’re a woman, so you might get spared the worst.”
Another fond smile crossed Brynn’s face as Lady Caitrin called her herd a ‘family’. They surely were to her, and also amongst each other, as many geese were not taken in from the outside – as natural taxes maybe – but hatched and grew up in the castle area. To an outsider they might look all the same, but Brynn knew the age of every one of them.
”Oh, believe me, they are a family”, she confirmed. “Drama and all. But as long as Queenie stays Martin’s favourite mate, we will all live to see another day.” It was quite amusing to attach the wellbeing of Camelot to the happiness of geese, but the joke was only half-hearted on Brynn’s side. Too vividly she remembered what she had joked once: that if Morgana ever returned she would be more victorious in taking over Camelot with an army of geese. And Morgana had returned. Just the geese thing she had never learnt, and that’swhy she hadn’t won. Still, what had happened was too fresh in everyone’s mind to lightly joke it off.
For a moment Brynn fought hard against just standing there, mouth wide open. Merlin, trying on CIRCLETS?! Where in all the world had that idea sprouted from in his sometimes twisted mind? Merlin usually did some peculiar things, things only he might know the reason to, if there ever was one, but that went far even for his standards. He surely had not tried to steal them… but why would he be wearing them in the first place?
Suddenly she couldn’t help but breaking out into uncontrollable chuckles, finding the image of Merlin with a circlet or another woman’s headdress just too hilarious.
”He… he didn’t!” she protested between two ragged gasps and held her aching stomach. But the pictures wouldn’t go away so the chuckles were ever renewed until she finally took a deep, determined breath.
”I couldn’t give any explanation for that … other than he might have tried to play some prank on Arthur – I mean, the King!”
Nervously she bit her lip.That had been an inexcuseable slip! Just because between Alex and her they were using his first name,it didn’t mean she could do that before a noblewoman! Hopefully that would not destory everything…
Lady Caitrin had summed up her duties quite well, Brynn found. She gave a simple nod. “Exactly, Mylady. Whenever I have time to spare, I try to make myself useful. Usually it is the kitchen, where my mother works, but if a friend asks me a favor, I am of course happy to help out as best as I can.”
Brynn had only vague memories of the imminent moment of the births she had been witnessing, staying by her mother’s side as an earnest, silent shadow, holding her hand. But she always remembered these moments of bliss,when she had been allowed to see her new sibling for the first time, and see her father and her mother almost touching heads over the little worm, making the final decision of a name. But she thought she truly remembered that her mother almost had lost consciousness after Gyrth’s birth, the weak pressure of her hands had been enough of a memorizer.
”She was indeed”, she agreed earnestly. “But most women make a quick recovery. It’s like they use up all their strength for this one final moment and are just so happy when it is over that they care for nothing else. But we’re all happy with the name, so it’s nothing bad.” Now she did smile after all, even though it was just the hint of one. “Just sometimes when my mother wants to tease my father, she ‘accidently’ calls Gyrth Hal. Not when he’s present though, he wouldn’t understand that yet.”
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It'll be great to maybe get some new ideas on what to read next, time permit!
