In search of something ( Joscelin)

[Lady Aslinn Draconis]

Aslinn had returned to her chambers without incident thanks to Joscelin. She would have to thank him when she saw him next. The truth of the matter was would she see him again. Of course the castle was large and its patrons within were busy with heir daily duties. She only knew that Joscelin’s duties took him away from Camelot. She knew nothing about what his reasons for being in Camelot were. She highly doubted that it was to find a wife. But then that was the reason for her being here. She had thought most of the night upon her conversation with Joscelin in regards to her not wanting to marry. The truth was that like her father, she felt that it was possible that no one deserved her. Her mother would see fit to selling her off to the first man that paid a good coin for her. While her father felt a man had to prove his worth. Sword and honor was her father’s virtues. As for Aslinn, her’s being entirely childish. Love, it was all that she desired. But anyone could love a person and still prove himself unworthy.

These were the thoughts that occupied her mind as she strolls through the marketplace. Calen had told her to get out and see the sights. Mingle with others; possibly befriend people, namely the young women of court. She decided to wander the marketplace for a new leather quiver for her arrows. Though Calen thought it improper for a woman to bare any type of arms. Archery was seen as a skill for a lady to become good at. Accomplished was the correct word, along with horseback riding, needlework, as well as dancing and languages. Aslinn excelled in many areas, but none so much as her talents with an arrow.

She lingered for a while amongst the venders before heading into the shops. There she would find a selection of leathers. Purchasing a quiver, along with a new assortment of arrows. The shafts a dark redwood, the feather a deep crimson, they were exquisite. That was if a weapon could be so. She smiled at her purchase as she left the shop. When she found Calen again his gaze was not pleasant. His disapproval was very apparent upon his darken features. “Shall I shop for falcon? Is that more of what you had in mind?”

Calen shook his head, “I do not think you have the patience to train a falcon lady. Though I would wage a good coin to see it.”

“Calen you are positively wick.” She told him as she continued on through the marketplace. Her slender form made its way from vender’s cart to vender’s cart. She was looking for something.

[Joscelin Trevalion]

"What are you looking for, my lord?" Aemon dared to ask Joscelin but the man had been silent since the moment they had departed the castle. Joscelin hadn't been looking for anything. In fact, Joscelin had wandered about the market for the better half of the day and looked from one stall to the other, and gazed upon the faces of each merchant barking their wares.

Once Joscelin would have purchased fine cloth from them and even elaborate trinkets, but now...now there was nothing for Joscelin here. There was nothing here for the woman who had watched him since the moment he had been brought before her. The woman, who had once loathed him as a stain upon his father's name and an insult to her barren womb, no longer lived and Joscelin was far away from her within a foreign land where he could not reach for her.

Ysandre Vestrit, Joscelin's foster mother was no longer, and Joscelin...Joscelin felt alone and wronged by everything he had ever known. Idly Joscelin wondered of the things he could have done differently and the paths he could have taken to assure health and livelihood. Yet, each time Joscelin's mind fell back to the current and he knew that nothing could be changed.

What had made things worse, though, was the fact that Cailean had predicted such a thing. That her reading had foretold the death of his mother and that his letter had only arrived on time for a seneschal to reply to such and not his mother directly. It had been a blow to him and had left him winded and half the man Joscelin was from that day forth after he had received the missive.

"I'm not entirely certain, Aemon," Joscelin admitted.

Joscelin's mood had echoed and affected Aemon, too, but Aemon had known to master himself. Nonetheless, Joscelin's mood had been upsetting to him; after all, he had never seen Joscelin within such a way. So, when Aemon had spotted the young woman, he had been eager to point her out to Joscelin with the hope that a conversation could be started by the two.

"Isn't that Lady Draconis?" Aemon asked.

"Ah, yes," Joscelin replied and looked toward her from across the way.

Joscelin had been busy with a fine cambric dyed a deep blue. His fingers smoothed across the material before he had looked to see the woman. With that, Joscelin set the material down. "I suppose I should greet here, eh?" Joscelin asked and looked to Aemon who nodded. It seemed that Joscelin hardly needed to move, though, for Aslinn was moving from vendor to vendor until finally she was nearest Joscelin who offered a smile and spoke aloud.

"My lady," Joscelin greeted her.

[Lady Aslinn Draconis]

Her dark eyes narrowed upon Calen. “You are positively beaming today. In a good mood then?” She teased, knowing him not to be. There was only one reason for his mood and she knew just what it was. “Have you gotten a letter from mother?”

Calen’s gaze would not rise to meet her’s. Which then spoke volumes of what he would not say. He knew it would only dampen her mood and thus ruin her day.

Aslinn’s gaze narrowed upon Calen. “So what does she say? Greetings, how are things. Hope your keeping well. Father sends his love.” She said, mocking her mother. It was perhaps rude for her to do so. But how could she not help it. It was true. Never once while she was away from home did her mother send good news her way. They might as well have been letters regarding her father’s business. They were more interesting.

“She does send greetings. After that I am sure you do not wish to know.” Calen spoke, his hands curling behind his back as he looked upon her. He could see the tension in her jaw as she turned from him. Faking interest in a small trinket. “She wonders about your progress.”

“My progress?” her head reared about to look upon Calen with cold narrowed eyes. “Does she seriously have me on a timeline?” She shook her head and muttering something under her breath as she looked at a few more items. She was cross, and with good reason. She plucked an item from the table only to firmly replace it. At a lost for words she continued on. Wondering what else her mother had to say.

“The fall solstice…” He added quickly. His dark grey eyes looked down then back at Aslinn’s back.

Quickly she turned about to face Calen, a look of disbelief upon it. “She can’t be serious.”

“I assure you she is very serious.” Calen told her as he unwrapped the letter from deep within his robes. He handed it to her, if she wished it. “She had demanded that I respond to how things are progressing within a weeks time. You have been give until the fall solstice to find a husband, if not….”

“Enough, Calen. You can write to my mother that I will not concede to her demands. My father will hear of this.” She started, as she turned about to distance herself from Calen. Obvious distress over the matter written upon her face, which only turned to surprise when she found Joscelin standing before her. “Oh, uh…” she curtsied, her hands moved to gather a hand full of her skirts so that she didn’t step on the hem and trip. Her head bowed as she deepened the curtsy. Dark blue eyes lifting before she rose. “My lord, it is nice to see you.” She told him, thinking it the proper thing in light of current events. Forcing a smile to her lips as she stood before him. “Are you here to shop?”

It was possibly a strange question for a man to be asked. Perhaps even stranger that he would be in the marketplace and wish to shop, a stupid question on her part. She mentally scolded herself to the foolish. Her gaze moved to Aemon, offering a smile to the man that she had not seen since their aid in coming to Camelot through the snow. “Greetings to you as well, sir.” She curtsied again. When she stood she looked to Calen.

Who was now silent and taking note of the men. He would greet them both before slipping to Aslinn’s side in a protective manner. His left hand curled behind his back, while the other hand moved to rest his palm upon the pommel of his sword that rested upon his hip. “Greetings sirs.” He offered, a gentle bow forward. His gasp lingered upon the pair before them wonder just what they had heard.

Aslinn felt the need to divert the conversation, and what better way then to make Joscelin the topic. “Shopping for anything of interest?” She would asked, her dark eyes widen in question. She was hoping to wipe any emotion from her face that Joscelin might be able to pick up on and question her of. “I have just in the…well I have no idea the name of the shop. Just that I purchased a fine leather quiver. Calen believes I should stick with trying to tame birds then shoot arrows. “ She told him, her gaze briefly turning to Calen. “Are you a good shot?” She asked, thinking to enthrall him in a conversation, all though boring, about weapons. She knew little but she was sure that Joscelin knew much. He was a man, held a place in the higher courts. Surely he was well trained in the arts of combat, much like her brothers. “Are you a frantic with swords? Or does your comfort lie with the bow and arrow.”

She knew he would take up arms with the practice of swords. Bow and arrows were beamed for men who could not wield a blade, or ladies. Which was then seen as only for spot. She stood before him. Her hands neatly laced together before her. Her long dark locks neatly pulled back in a loose braid. Donning a gown of the deepest blue, which matched her robes, and set her dark blue eyes to a prefect shine. She had wanted to inquire about his reading. Wondering if he had found a book to send him off to sleep. She had yet to thank him for distracting the guards. But with his good man, Aemon with him, as well as Calen, she would remain silent upon it.

[Joscelin Trevalion]

Joscelin felt something that was rather strange within that moment. He found that he had wanted turn upon his heel and flee. He realized rather quickly that he couldn't exactly face her right there and then. That he didn't want to face anyone beyond Aemon and himself. Yet, she's not to blame for that feeling. In fact, Joscelin himself was to blame. It was far too late to run now though; after all, he had been the one to reach out and call to her. He had been the one to start their conversation and now the regret Joscelin felt for that...well, had to be mastered.

"I am," Joscelin said, and then, "somewhat." He offered a slight smile then and watched Aslinn. The woman, as always, was rather beautiful. That, and had an air about her that commanded a semblance of attention. It was a shock that she had no suitors. Then again, Aslinn had seemed to be the reason behind that herself. Joscelin shouldn't be privy to her own matters though. They were her own and Joscelin had himself to worry of. At least for the moment.

Aemon, who had been standing at Joscelin's elbow, sketched a bow.

"Greetings, my lady," he said and straightened thereafter.

Joscelin, though, was uncertain of where else to go with their chance meeting. It's not due to any fault of her own, but the fact that Joscelin's mind was busy over thoughts of his mother, and the fact that she was no longer with him. The loss of her had left Joscelin feeling rather sober and fearful of what the future presented him. He may yet be young but there was always the fact that anything could take Joscelin away from this world, and although he may have seen much of the world, Joscelin had nothing to show for it.

He had no wife or children. In fact, Joscelin only had an estate and title, and a lifestyle that was secret at best. He was not a mason that would construct magnificent statuary or temples, nor was he a woodworker that could create humble homes or instruments. He was nothing more than a man that lived to pretend and pretended to live. It's these thoughts that filled him when Aemon touched his back and stirred him from his reverie. He cleared his throat and looked to meet her gaze.

"I was looking over the market's fresh stock. My mother liked the fabric here," Joscelin confessed to her. He didn't want to talk about his mother with her though; after all, Aslinn didn't know her and such things should be privy to him. Nonetheless, when she spoke of herself and the leather quiver, Joscelin was appreciative for the change of subject. He offered at smile when she mentioned Calen's suggestion.

"It has dangers much like archery, my lady," he told her simply. "Although I must admit that I'd love to watch you at practice. Are you a good shot?" He asked of her and looked genuinely interested. When she questioned him, though, Joscelin looked nearly taken aback before he nodded curtly. "Well enough to feel comfortable with a wager on my shoulders," Joscelin admitted and offered a tight smile. "I do prefer to fight up close and...personal," he confessed and watched her.

Mayhap he should have turned away...yet, he didn't.

"Mayhap we could have a bit of a challenge, my lady? We could see who's the better shot. If we could find an open yard, I mean," he suddenly offered and offered another smile. This time more genuine than the last, and truth be told, he wanted to drown in her company. "Not that I doubt your talents, of course. I'm merely curious, and...well, I must admit that I"m a bit lonesome as of late," he admitted and bowed his head to her.

[Lady Aslinn Draconis]

Aslinn was insightful to the world about her. Many would think that her thoughts were lost upon herself, but they would be wrong. She was every careful to watch those around her. Of course Calen with Calen at her side there was never need for worry. Her back was always guarded. Her dark blue eyes flickered across Joscelin’s face taking note of his expression. There seemed to be something amiss with him. Had he only meant to say hello, and not stop. Had she mistaken his greeting to stop as one to continue along? Her cheeks redden a little. He looked lost, but not entirely in thought. Displace perhaps. She didn’t really know for certain for she did not know Joscelin all that well.

Should she take offense to his mood toward her? She didn’t think so. She could just brush it off as nothing. Merely allow him to go on his way. But her questions, and need to talk to fill dead space. She was uncomfortable with silence. Often Calen told her that silence was golden when he found it. An insult that she took to heart on too many occasions, which he would end up paying dearly for by purchasing her a gift to make amends.

She took note of his mood. He seemed melancholy now. Had he received terrible news? Biting her lip as she stood before him, listening to him. Her dark eyes would shift to Aemon, taking note of his actions toward Joscelin. He looked to be coaxing him forward. She smiled to his greeting and had turned to Calen who acknowledge both men with a studying gaze.

Calen’s gaze drifted down to the letter he bore for Aslinn. There was much in the letter that he did not tell her of. Much that he did not think she could handle at this time. He curled it back as she moved around Aslinn, still appraising those about them.

She heard the tone of his voice when he spoke of his mother. Something was amiss. She would comment upon it at this time. She shifted the topic, making a mental note to come back to it later. But then she thought wrong at doing so. He seemed to think as Calen did. “You wish to watch?” She furrowed her brow thinking it a tease. “If you wish to I am to go to the meadows. Calen saw to setting targets for me.” She said turning to Calen smiling and then looking back at Joscelin. “I am a fair shot.”

She smiled at the idea was besting him. “I do enjoy a good challenge.” She told him, thinking it might take his thoughts away from what seemed to be troubling him. The latter of his words seemed to cause her to blush some. “Shall we go from here, or shall I meet you?” she asked him.

[Joscelin Trevalion]

"Just watch?" Joscelin asked Aslinn and smiled. There was a familiar warmth to his eyes then. In fact, there was a semblance of amusement that filled Joscelin's eyes as they were wont to do. "I'd like that, Aslinn," Joscelin admitted. Truth be told, Joscelin wished to return to his chambers and huddle beneath the sheets. He wanted to waste the day away but he couldn't forget why he was here and that he wasn't at his estate to do as he pleased.

He was here in his Grace's stead. That meant he didn't have time to waste.

He didn't have time to mourn.

"I would have to be witness to this fair shot of yours, Aslinn," Joscelin said suddenly. "Just know that if we have a challenge that I will not take you lightly nor should you take me lightly," he added. He grinned at her and when she mentioned leaving now...well, Joscelin knew he was doing nothing there. Nonetheless, Joscelin would be content to simply watch her too.

"We can head off now," Joscelin said and bowed to her. "Will you do me the honor of allowing me to escort you, my lady?" He asked of her and offered her his arm. He smiled, too, and drew close to her side. It was companionable of him and polite. Yet, there was a part of him that also longed to be touched and comforted. There was a part of him that longed for that of a stable and steady friendship and for someone he could talk to without a hitch.

Someone he could talk to other than Aemon.


[Sorry for the short post. Not much muse today.]

[Lady Aslinn Draconis]

Aslinn’s gaze had traveled from appraising her bow back to Joscelin. At least he smiled now. Perhaps her company this day was not entirely unwanted, so far. “ I only suggested to watch for your mood suggest that you on in fact, in no mood.” Was she really that blunt with her words? She pressed her lips together and gave a soft sigh. Upon quick reflection, namely a clearing of the throat by Calen, she bit her bottom lip for a moment, and then proceeded. “I mean no disrespect sir. I was just taking note of your temperament this day. You seem distracted is all.”

She understood moods, having been in many herself. She gaze drifted downward as if uncertain that his mood would worsen. Perhaps if she didn’t call a person’s character into question she would not have to worry about the rebuttal or flare in nostrils as words were hurled about like slings and arrows. When he answered back with a admitted ~I’d like that~ A smile lifted to her lips, only to slip away when she turned her attention to Calen briefly to make sure it was fine with him. The man furrowed his brow about to explain to her in no uncertain terms that he was against it. When Aslinn turned abrupt from him before his lecture ensued.

She would stop in mid-stride and turn at Joscelin’s quick statement regarding a challenge and his inability to go easy on her. This statement caused the right side of her lip to lift. “Are you a gambling man….” She would pause not sure how to address him. Joscelin was far too informal and possibly endearing to one’s heart, Lord was more appropriate. Her gaze remained fused to his face for a time. “My Lord…for my brother has told me on many occasions that my shot would rival the best in his regiment, in its entirety. She was certain her brother was only being kind, but Joscelin did not know this.

She stood prim and proper before him. Her dark sapphire eyes set ablaze at the thought of possibly having fun this morning. To his offer of his hand she would nod and bow out of acceptance. “It would be an honor, my lord.” She told him with a soft and deep curtsy. Her eyes lifted for a moment to hold his. “Are you wishing to walk or ride. I myself enjoy a good stroll.”

It would take longer to get to the meadow she was to practice in. And since she was in no hurry to reveal any shift she might or might not have, walking suited her fine.

[Joscelin Trevalion]

"Distracted," Joscelin echoed Aslinn as she had said the word. Yes, Aslinn was right to say the very least. Joscelin was in no mood to do much of...well, anything. Distracted, too, was a good word to describe the way he felt. His mind felt as if it was on anything but the moment. In fact, it was on his mother. The woman who had not given him birth but had given him a means and way to leave. The woman who had shown him how to dance, play and become the socialite he was now. His mind was on her, but not only her...It was turned on him too.

The fear of his own mortality and having nothing to survive him.

Mayhap Ysandre had been right. He should have found a woman to settle with. He should have married and lived a comfortable, predictable life and have a dozen children. Instead, he was here in Camelot and moping about the markets and looking...distracted. He looked to Aslinn and wondered if he could imagine himself at her elbow.

He had thought her an attractive woman before, and truth be told, she still was. She had youth on her side and an mind unlike many others. She may have been a bit pampered but what member of nobility wasn't? She didn't seem to mind getting her hands dirty though; after all, she could have sent Calen on this errand to fetch her a bow and quiver. Instead, she was here. She had dark hair, too, and beautiful eyes, and generous hips for childbearing.

Joscelin could see himself with her...standing there at her elbow, talking with her and laughing. It would be convenient for the both of them too. After all, her mother wanted her to marry and who better than a fellow nobleman who could afford anything another noblewoman could want for...? They talked well now beyond the pleasantries, too, and nothing ever seemed forced or awkward between them. That and Joscelin wouldn't be unkind to her. He'd treat her like a proper woman, tend to her needs financially and would even caress her properly in the bed chamber, seeing to her pleasure before his own.

...and she'd bear him children.

Then he thought of Sophia Lyonesse.

He was attracted to the princess, and truth be told, had wanted her. Yet, she was promised to Prince Arthur Pendragon, and Joscelin's hands were bound from interfering. In fact, doing anything would undoubtedly end up with a swordpoint at his throat from either party; especially his own. Not that that mattered or he should be worried. He had to check himself and clear his mind of such things. He had to be realistic.

He looked after Aslinn and smiled as she spoke.

"Is that so? Then I must see this fabled shot of yours, my lady," Joscelin teased her.

She stood there prim and proper, as much as Joscelin did, but beneath that Joscelin was beaten and undone; ready to break and weep for the loss of one so dear to him. Yet, at the notion of her freeing him from that...Joscelin felt alive once more. She accepted his hand, and as she met his warm blue gaze with her sapphire eyes, Joscelin smiled once more.

"I believe I'd like to walk, my lady," he admitted.

When she took his arm, Joscelin had begun to...well, not lead the way, but follow. After all, she knew the way in which they were headed. Aemon, though, looked from the two to Calen and smiled as he followed at their heels as the strolled along. Joscelin kept looking forward and was quiet for only a moment before he had begun to speak.

"I must admit that I was in a bad mood this morning, Aslinn, but you may have shook me from it. I..." He trailed and shook his head. "I'm glad that I had run into you. It's nice to know that I have someone here that I..." Joscelin trailed. Speak with...? Confide in...? Carouse with...? None of them fit. He hadn't admitted much to her, but then that was due to his profession more than anything...Joscelin looked thoughtful.

"It's hard to be so far away from home without someone truly genuine about," he said. "I've begun to realize that I'm rather alone in the world...well, here in Camelot at least. Until I see you that is. Then I cannot but smile at how much of a small world it is for you and I to come across one another time and again. As if fate were pairing us," he teased her and smiled.

All the while they walked, closer and closer to the meadow.

[Lady Aslinn Draconis]

Aslinn looked to Joscelin as he spoke. It was true he looked beyond distracted. So distracted that it was obvious that she held little of his attention. Though she took note of it she did not bring it to his attention. There was no reason to embarrass herself before him. She had the right mind to send him back to the castle grounds, but he was not her’s to command. Her deep blue orbs turned to the view of the street that would take them out of the town to the meadow she had designs on. If he wished to speak he would. She did not need to fill the silence like most women. Idle chatter her father called it. If one did not have anything worthy of saying it was best to remain silent until one did.

Emotions seemed to wash upon him like waves upon the ocean. There was a change in his eyes, from what she observed. She always paid close attention to those about her. Studying them to see what they betrayed of themselves. Joscelin seemed to suffering from melancholy. Perhaps bad news from home, or good news…. one never knew how one wore their emotions. Aslinn never revealed much of herself simply because no one seemed worthy of knowing, that was other then her brothers. She glanced to Calen, only briefly as she didn’t wish for Joscelin to feel as if she was ignoring him. She didn’t wish to present herself as rude or inattentive. To say she thought him perhaps spoiled or vain was entirely wrong. But she was use to men of court and they usually fell into such categories. As she returned her gaze to Joscelin she would take note of Calen’s own melancholy expression. Had she offended him? He appeared more withdrawn then normal. He was keeping something to himself, and away from her.

When her gaze returned to Joscelin, she could not help but take note of Joscelin’s appraising gaze. Her cheeks redden as she moved a hand to brush forward some locks of her dark hair to hide her embarrassment. It was something to be glanced at or even over, but to studied. It was unnerving. A lady of court she should be able to handle such things. Thicker skin, her brothers would tell her that she had great need of. She would take note that he was very much her senior. Though he looked far from weathered, he looked to be every bit distinguished, as he ought to seem. She would steal glances in Joscelin’s they went along the side street hat would take them toward the main gate of the town.

He seemed to be working something over in his mind as they stood there. Perhaps it was best to get moving. Not wishing to keep him longer then he needed to be. Preoccupied he appeared to be. Possibly thinking upon his mood or the cause of his mood. Was she simply remain silent, perhaps it was best to be. But Aslinn was not that type of person that could stay silent for long. ”You seem to be suffering sir.”

If he answered her, she would pause and turn to he him address her in how wrong she was. But if he remained silent she would simply guide him toward the edge of town. Steering to the right to a path that would take them to the meadows. Soon she would be lost in her training to worry about Joscelin’s mood. If he was troubled by something he wished to give a voice to she was here. A soft smile came to her lips as he spoke of her fables shot. “I assure you there is nothing fable about it, sir. If you feel you can out do me, which I think you do. Please try.” Perhaps a friendly competition was what he had need of.

Her left hand gathered a handful of fabric to ensure she did not trip as they made there way along to the meadow. When he finally broke his silence to admit his sour mood that morning she turned her full attention to him. Surprised that he was admit his poor mood. Her cheeks warmed to his compliment that she had possibly improved his mood, even if just a little. “I’m glad to hear it sir.” She smiled, gesturing to the meadow up the bray and to their right. She would turn her full attention back to the path ahead. Following the path to a clearing just at he edge of the meadow. Calen had set up several practice targets. “Shall we?”

[Joscelin Trevalion]

Aslinn's cheeks had warmed at what he had said of her. The truth was, was that Aslinn did bring a semblance of light to his day. He had been rather moody from the morn and even so now. That wasn't to say that he wanted to be, although how could one blame him for what he felt? He had lost someone was that had been very dear to him, and that wasn't quite easy to bring up in conversation; in fact, he had hardly made mention of it to Aemon, and he had known Aemon since he had been a boy.

He felt alone knowing that he no longer had a mother, even if that mother had never been her true blood relative. Ysandre had been the one to love and groom him properly for the real world. She had prepared him for many obstacles in life, including love...somewhat. She had been his confidante and first true friend in the world when he had no one...when all Joscelin had was himself.

He had been the unwanted get of a soiled dove, but one person wanted him...Ysandre.

He took a deep, shuddering breath as Aslinn gestured to the meadow and toward where the several practice targets were located. He looked on, gnawed on his lower lip, and nodded to her. "We shall," he said with a smile and caught her hand in his. He gave her hand a soft, mindful squeeze, before he suddenly led her onward at a quickened pace that was undoubtedly filled with excitement. He wanted to throw himself at the task and forget the day.

"Will you tell me about your land?" Joscelin asked suddenly as they approached the targets. When they were in range, Joscelin came to a stop then as he looked from the targets and down to the ones upon her comely features; her eyes. His own searched hers, they were filled with genuine curiosity. "I'd like to know more, my lady...If you would tell me. Of course, while we are at this..." He said and gestured at the targets with one hand before he smiled. With that, Joscelin untangled his hand from her own and set his hands upon his hips as he looked forward, awaiting the arrival of their men who had given them a semblance of privacy, but always kept them in distance and eyesight.

"Something tells me you're very good at this," he said suddenly.

[Lady Aslinn Draconis]

As they walked along Aslinn could not help but study the height of the grass that grew on either side of the meadow. Though her gaze was averted from Joscelin’s for a time her attention never wavered. She could hear ever word he uttered. Even tell his mood by the inflection of his voice. He was still in a solemn mood though there were moments that he sounded cheery, only to slip back into silence. Her gaze drifted toward the meadow ahead of them. Her free hand gathered a handful of fabric and drew her hem off the ground ever so slightly so not to trip as they ventured to where Calen had placed the targets.


The changes sudden changes to his temperament had her wondering what was truly troubling him. She would have asked him if she knew him better, and didn’t think she would get a tongue lashing at how it was none of her business. She stayed her curious mind and looked to the targets Calen had set for her. It can top a great surprise to her when Joscelin caught her hand. She cheeks reddened once again at the sudden impulse that took over him. In a matter of seconds she was being rushed along the path that would take them into the meadow. He seemed to be in a hurry now. ~What a strange mood he is in this day.~

Her thoughts raced with curious questions about Joscelin. Her attention had been on how warm his hand had felt in her’s. When she heard his question she quickly cleared her throat and looked toward the targets. Gauging the distance between them and herself, wanting to flee his side and hide behind it. “My lands?” she asked as if she had not heard the original question. “Mercia sir is a lovely place. Of course is not my only home. My father is from Mercia. Born and raised there, while my mother is the daughter of a Roman Gaul parents. My father married her upon a campaign, or as far as I can recall it was such.”

She turned to find his gaze intently placed upon her face. Heat returned as she trying to find her wit. Where was that regular wit that she placed before Calen on a regular basis? For whatever reason she felt the desperate need to be on her best behavior. As if any misspoken word and he might report her to Calen. Her gaze held his, as she pondered upon a few of her own questions in his regard.

She was rambling. He wished to know about her lands. She was certain that did not mean he wished to know about her family. “Mercia is a grand place,” She told him, as she tried to get herself on track. He had released her hand, which only caused her to gather it in her other hand and rub the centre as the strangest of sensations ebbed through it. She would stride away from him in the midst of talking. She didn’t know just what it was he wished to know. Odds were that he just wanted her to fill the dead space between them with idle banter of nothingness.

“Have you never been to the coast? Mercia is vast and homes many hamlets, along with large villages. It is not so rural as one might think.” She spoke of her mother during that statement. “My father’s estate in further inland then the coast, but it is not a long journey to get to the cliffs to get a good view of the ocean and its splendor.”

She would take notice of Calen and Aemon coming across the meadow to where they now stood. She would acknowledge Calen as he gave them a few extra moments to themselves before handing the bow over. She would smile to his last statement. “You sound worried?”

[Joscelin Trevalion]

"Mercia," Joscelin murmured. He had not been there, unfortunately so. Yet, Joscelin had heard of the land before; after all, he was a diplomatic spy, and he was well versed in the various people and cultures of the world. Nonethless, there was a difference between learning of the land and actually mingling with people from there, or with those having blood ties to that land. One could find new found appreciation for that culture through others, and Joscelin must own that he was rather interested and intrigued by Aslinn. In fact, he wanted to sit down and just simply listen to her speak.

"I would have never thought your mother to be of Roman Gaul descent," he admitted, watching Aslinn and searching her face for attributes that could be brought on by that heritage. Joscelin was once more at a loss for he had never met such a being before or mingled with them. He gnawed on his lower lip, though; after all, Aslinn was an attractive and young woman, and would undoubtedly bear handsome heirs for her husband.

"What a peculiar way to be brought together, but I suppose life comes from death, eh?" He asked of her, smiling slightly at that. Mayhap he should find a semblance of life himself...? He entertained the thought and shook the notion clear of his head. Marriage would come eventually, but not now...mayhap when things were all over and done with, when he could return home south of here. Idly Joscelin wondered who he would take as a wife...

Idly Joscelin wondered whether or not he could make that woman happy and do right by her. It was strange to think that he would be an unfit husband. After all, he was imperfect like anyone else, but...well, there was more to Joscelin than just that. Once more he had to free his mind of clutches of his thoughts, settling himself to the now of Aslinn's scent, warmth and lilt.

"I've never been," Joscelin admitted, albeit reluctantly so.

"It sounds like a lovely place with many secrets hidden in every nook and cranny," he murmured as he attempted to imagine Mercia. It made him think of his own estate; the one where his mother had passed in. "Mayhap I will be able to see it one day, you think? If you'd allow me your company as a guide," he said playfully, smiling at her. He looked excited at the prospect. "I must admit that sometimes I fancy myself as a bit of an adventurer," he said.

Yet, as Joscelin looked from her and to the targets, he bit his lower lip to stifle a laugh.

"I am," he admitted. "For if I was a gambling man, and I am," he said, "I'd find myself wagering against myself." He murmured and looked back to her, looking amused. He then sketched a rather theatrical bow, lolling his head until his chin tucked againsth is chest. He extended one arm toward the targets as the other curled at his waist. "My lady, will you begin and grace me with your talent?" He asked of her, looking up at her face and looking genuinely intrigued.

[Lady Aslinn Draconis]

Calen would remain back with Aemon. Leaving the pair to talk. He could not help but be pleased that Aslinn was being civil with the young man. She had a good head on her shoulders. At times she was stubborn, she would say with good reason, Calen would just agree to make it easier. He had handed the bow to her and taken his place about ten paces from the pair. He did not wish to eavesdrop on their conversation. But should she need him he was close at hand.

Her gaze would turn slightly toward Joscelin. There was little recognition in his features. He had obviously never been to Mercia before. She watched as he pondered his thoughts upon it. She could tell him only what she knew, what she had experienced. Living in Mercia as a small child before heading back to her mother’s homeland as a safety precautious. Her father wished that for his children, especially his only daughter not be exposed to the wars that plagued Mercia at the time. It was a sore spot with her for it took her from her father’s side. But she learned to read and write and corresponded through letters with him over the months that stretched into years.

A look of surprised crossed her fair features. Was that a compliment? If it were she was thankful. She liked to think her appearance was that belonging to her father’s side. Though she could not fault her mother, at times they got along. Her mother was still her mother, and she respected that small part of their ties. She noted that he looked puzzled, or did she perplex him? Strange, she wondered why he felt such a way? Her gaze narrowed at his words. Wondered what they meant.

“I am sure my father would be grateful to have one such as yourself visit Mercia.” She told him as she looked over her bow. Making sure that the string was firmly in place. She would then look her arrows over as well. Her fingers gently brushing the feather tips against her palm. “He enjoys the company of others.”


She would take a few strides to a spot about fifteen paces from the first target. She would draw the bow up. Gently clenching the shaft as she held it firmly before herself. Her left hand with draw the arrow up and place it against the string. Two fingers hold it steady, as her gaze travels down the body of the slender elm that constructed the arrow. Her dark gaze locked upon the target before her. Taking a soft intake of air, and slowly exhaling it. She would hold for a moment in order to gauge the target along with the breeze that filtered through the area. Her stance was feet shoulder width apart, shoulders angled toward the target.

She could not help but chuckle that he would wager against himself then boast that he could best her with a hand tied behind his back and eyes closed.

[Joscelin Trevalion]

Aslinn's words about her father, and about Mercia, made Joscelin wonder whether or not he truly would be welcomed there. Unfortunately, Joscelin couldn't recall the last time he had ventured somewhere for genuine pleasure and for himself. Joscelin had always gone as the hand of his Grace, working with an act of clean cut diplomacy and as a shadow in court.

He realized that he wanted to see Mercia when he was done here...when all was said and done with, and peace was between Gore and Camelot, and his Grace had the trade rights he longed for. After all that, then mayhap Joscelin would finally be realized, and he could see the world for himself and her father's land. Mayhap she'd even show him about and the two could share many conversations as they had on the king's road, the royal library and even here.

"So do I, and I appreciate conversing of things beyond a diplomatic means," Joscelin admitted. He even smiled at what he said. It was the truth to say the very least, and Joscelin had no reason to lie about it. He had lived a life that, for the better part of his existence, had been for the means of another and not his own, at least until he had learned of the delicacies and pleasures life could bring; fancy things, wine, literature, art and...well, women. Now, though, Joscelin wanted somewhat more...he wanted what his foster-mother had wanted.

He watched as Aslinn stepped forward to settle herself fifteen paces from her first target. Joscelin watched, genuinely interested in Aslinn's talent and what she could do. He took in every step she made, every movement and motion, and every miniscule manuever of technique she used to draw her arrow and the bow with two fingers. He watched her body, and idly wondered of the way her muscles moved beneath her soft skin. He wanted to study her for that alone to say the very least, but of course, Joscelin wouldn't indulge and ask. Instead, he continued to watch her, and he was silent as he waited for her loose her missile.

[Unfortunately a short one]

[Lady Aslinn Draconis]

“My mother has often told me that my thoughts are not on Diplomacy enough. I feel she think I will shame her.” She spoke as she drew the fletching between her fingers. A smiled graced her lips at the way the feathers tickled the back of her hand. Her stance was perfectly still. Her gaze locked upon the target, but not the target as a whole, but a particular spot, its centre.

She allowed her dark sapphire eyes to dart in Joscelin’s direction. Wandering just when the man begun and the diplomat ended. Like most men she figured that was all there was to a man. But upon the first two meetings he had seemed eager to befriend her. She would have liked to believe it was due to his lack of friends in Camelot, much like herself. But that was not the case. She was not one for gossip, but one could only turn a deaf ear and yet still hear what was said. Servant girls especially enjoyed gossiping amongst themselves just to pass the time. She felt her cheeks grow warm at the sudden change of thoughts that worked their way into her head.

Fingers trembled ever so slightly as she noticed her embarrassment. The arrow shaking a little, but she was quick to right it. Steeling her mind and her body as she took on a more powerful stance. Her back straight, a slight bend to her knees so that they didn’t lock. Her elbow had bent when she pulled the string and arrow back. The tips of her fingers running across her cheek when she drew the string back. She held her breath to steady herself. She would then count in her head before allowing the release of the string. She had angled it a little higher to account for the wind that might pick up when it wished. A soft whisk of air was felt against her cheek.

She watched as the arrow traveled quickly from her hand. The wind picked up, but just, causing the arrow to move a little off the centre mark. Though it still struck, it was not a bull’s eye. She furrowed her brow at the miss. Though it was still within the centre, it just wasn’t in the full centre. She had allowed herself to become mildly distracted by Joscelin’s presence. She would turn with an out stretched hand, offering him her bow. “Care to try?”

If he took the bow she would make her way off to the side so she wasn’t in the way. “Care to make it interesting…. since you’re a gambling man.” She teased offering a lighthearted smile. Glad for the company.