A Bit of Tiberium [complete]

[Balian of Tiberium]

There was truly nothing that could derail Augustus Aurelius. In fact, the domus that Augustus had built within the capital of Camelot was a testament to that. Although, to be fair, the domus was smaller than the one Augustus had ownership of within Tiberium proper. There was still no doubt that the coin, and labor settled within such, had still produced a magnificent and unique piece of architecture within Camelot. That, and the allure surrounding the construction had been enough to captivate even the most closeminded of nobles.

The exotic and foreign will always be a commodity within other nations.

It was the birth of a new life for Augustus Aurelius, and for one other.

Built upon a natural rise of a land within the capital, the domus was led to by way of a cobble stone pathway. The high walls hid the splendor from the eyes of any passersby, but the sounds of audible grunts and thumps, and even the occasional cheer flitted over the sandstone walls. Out front, though, lingered eager servants under Augustus Aurelius, who would lead any man, or even woman, within to see such spectacles of Tiberium; men wearing white tunics embroidered at the hem, neckline and sleeves.

When approached, each servant would lead their charge from the cobble pathway and along the wide staircase that fronted the domus, and soonafter would pass beneath an alabaster archway to enter. Despite that, no roof was over their head even within. Instead, there was an open garden and marble floor that gleamed from the sun, and at each flank lay palanquins for any noble that longed for a luxurious ride to their homestead within the capital.

Yet, once led along the dark marble, and around a fountain that stood center of such, one would be soon greeted with an open-air courtyard with a sandy floor. Yet, along the sides where the tall walls once were now lingered red-columned porticoes that offered a shady corridor and held aloft a second-tier to the domus where rooms undoubtedly were. There was a well, too, that was at the rear of the yard, and it was set about on all sides with benches and date palms in massive clay pots. There were men and women there attended by servants with parasols, eating and drinking and conversing while they watched a wrestling match. Then there were half a dozen others that stood watching intently, laying odds and wagers over the two grapplers.

The two contestants were near-naked and oiled. Their flesh rippling with each motion they performed as they collided with one another. One had the advantage of height and reach, but the smaller man was quick, slipping out of his hold time and again. The spectators oohed and aahed, exclaiming over each near throw and escape. There were some citizens of Camelot, though, that frowned in perplexity; even looking uncomfortably at the scene. They will strip to swim, but not much else, and even that, not in the presence of women as these two men so shamelessly did.

In time, the wrestlers closed in a grapple, legs braced, hands locked on each other's upper arms. Their feet scuffled for purchase and advantage in the deep sand as each sought to unbalance the other. The larger man feinted left, seeking to hook his opponent's ankle, but the other was ready for it and threw a hip-check, using the leverage of his arms to throw the other. Down went the larger contestant landing with a resonant thump. The audience sighed at the sight as the winner backed away breathing heavily and slick with sweat, oil and covered with patches of sand. The loser, though, bounded to his feet grinning as the audience applauded the Tiberium art of grappling. Soon the man was thumping his hand down hard onto the smaller man's back.

"Here I thought I'd have you this time, Balian," Demetrios confesses before lolling his head and allowing himself to drink of the sight of Camelot's curious women. "You think any are curious of our prowress elsewhere?" He dared to ask Balian. The smaller man, Balian, laughed.

"Mayhap, my friend." Balian managed to say before lolling his head to overlook the dainty and foreign women. They were very different from the women back within Tiberium proper. Yet, Augustus, their owner, seemed to mingle well with the women and men of this land. Partly for the fact that he was so open and endearing, and the fact that he loved their fat purses. He was laughing and explaining the grappling art to them, and speaking of Tiberium and of the investments one could make on his able-bodied men.

"I find myself not missing Tiberium overly much," Demetrios admits suddenly.

Balian, though, wiped his brow with the back of his hand and found his gaze straying.

"It's different here," Balian admits. "Far different from Tiberium."

It's then his hands burrowed within the sun warm sand underfoot.

"Another round, mayhap?" Balian asks with a smile.

[Branowen O'Floinn]

Branowen had arrived not as an immediately invited guest but as an addition, her twin brother having been invited and asking if is ever curious sister could accompany him. She'd spend most of the evening sitting my her brother's side with a dazed look in her eye. It was like nothing she'd ever seem before. Sure, she'd read a lot about foreign cultures along with a variety of other subjects but she'd never had the chance to experience any of them. The little time she'd spent away from her brother's side had been to explore the room and a little of the house. As usual she carried a book, this time on roman culture and history. It was written in Latin, but she'd slowly and painstakingly translated a few chapters while a scholar who knew Latin translated the rest. Ever since she'd heard of Augustus Aurelius and where he'd come from she'd been interested. She'd never spoken to him, her twin on the other hand had apparently had a few conversations and they'd been politely introduced to each other.

Food was served and Branowen had to be jolted from her thoughts by her brother who poked her lightly in her side. She ate very little and drank only one glass of wine to her brother's five. The wrestling was something she'd never seen before. She watched the two men with great interest occasionally consulting her book. Her interest with the males was much different than that of the majority of the females. Innocent were her thoughts as they were set on training and education. Her books only briefly mentioned these things. When the smaller of the males won the five foot tall girl stood and started to make her way over to him but was called back by her brother who wanted to introduce her to more people. For Conall, Branowen's twin it was a chance to rub elbows with some nobility. She was drawn into a conversation with the man of the house as he explained what they'd previously been doing. She listened for a moment, really she did but her attention was drawn away by the two fighters. There was a small cluster of women taking and pointing at them but apparently they did not have the courage to go over and talk to them.

Running a hand though her vibrant hair she collected her embroidered green wrap around her white dress and started towards the males large book firmly in hand. Passing the cluster of women she took the pitcher of something that one of them carried and stepped up to the males.

When she spoke it was easy to see that she was not originally from Camelot herself, her Irish accent present in her soft voice. Hello! I though you might be thirsty after that... fight? Is there a more technical name for it because I'm afraid something's got a little lost in translation for me. Anyway, I think it's wine in here! She extended the pitcher to the two males as though it were some olive branch, a symbol of peace that would allow her to slip into the conversation. Oh! I completely forgot to introduce myself. How rude of me! My names Branowen O'Floinn, or any variation on my name that you like. The vibrant red haired eighteen year old gave a brilliant smile and waited for a reply.

○wordcount-five hundred and sixty five-○tag-Balian-○notes-an okay post I had so many ideas they all got jumbles together. –○credit branowen of legends of pendragon

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[Balian of Tiberium]

Balian had been ready to face off with Demetrios once more. That, and their captivated audience seemed eager for an encore as odds and wagers were settled amongst them. Yet, Balian, the smaller of the two at a height of five-foot-eleven compared to Demetrios' six-foot-five, was drawn to the lilt of a woman. It was a strange dialect to say the very least. Although, to be fair, Balian found anyone within Camelot to speak rather...well, strangely. There's no doubt that Balian sounded different to them as well. Nonetheless, the man found himself lolling his head to look back at the young woman with her vibrant hair and soft features.

He found himself staring.

She was so fair...! He longed to reach out and brush his fingers upon her cheek. Idly Balian wondered whether or not she was warm to the touch. She had to be...Yet, Balian knew his limitations and boundaries. He may not be within Tiberium any longer, but Augustus was still his owner, and despite that, Balian would not risk the honor of the Aurelius name. Nonetheless, Demetrios seemed to be more than enthralled by the entirety of the situation.

"That I am, my lady...!" Demetrios states with a grin and peers over Balian's shoulder at the smaller woman. There's no doubt that the two of them were fascinated with her. Despite the fact that they had grown accustomed to the women of Camelot, both Demetrios and Balian were rarely within their company. That, and she was a rather lovely flower. What was more shocking, though, was the fact that she seemed to present herself as a scholar.

Balian's hands lift then but brush warmly upon her own as he grasps the pitcher thereafter. He looks down at the wine sloshing within and smooths his tongue upon his lower lip. Demetrios looked from her and to the pitcher. They seemed almost...well, taken aback would be the correct term. Balian soon found his tongue then and there; once feeling like leather.

"I am Balian," he breathes out suddenly before lolling his head to Demetrios. "This is Demetrios, and we thank you." He says and gestures to her with the pitcher. "I believe the word you are looking for..." Balian looked thoughtful then and pursed his mouth, even. "Pankration."

"Are you a philosopher...?" Demetrios asked from behind Balian.

"I'd think she's more a scholar than philospher," Balian admits his own notion of her.

Patience surfaced on Balian's face as he looked over his shoulder to the larger man and back. "It's the art of grappling," Balian explains suddenly. "Wrestling, mostly." He says and looks down to the wine once more before hefting the pitcher to his mouth. He drank deeply and ravenously. It was a surprise that he was not more heavily affected by the wine when the pitcher came free to reveal thin rivulets of that fine wine trailing down his throat. He lifted a hand to wipe his mouth before offering the pitcher to Demetrios who took such eagerly.

"Demetrios, will you have another pair perform for Augustus' guests?" Balian asks of Demetrios who nodded and stepped away with the pitcher. After the man was out of earshot, Balian turned his attention onto her more fully. "My lady Branowen O'Floinn," Balian began and pronounced her name oddly with his Tiberium tongue. "I will be happy to answer any other questions."

All the while Balian's dark blue eyes never left hers.


[ Wonderful reply, really! It's what I was hoping for honestly. I hope you have fun! ]

[Branowen O'Floinn]

Branowen had stared at the men for a moment, momentarily worried that they might not accept the pitcher but was quickly reassured when the taller of the men spoke. "That I am, my lady...!" Branowen smiled and mentally sighed in relief. She turned her gaze up at the men and momentarily wondered if all the people from Italy were that tall. Being only five feet most of the world towered over her more so with these two men. One was almost a head taller then her and the other a giant to her, not that it was hard as most of the world towered over her.

The smaller of the men reached out and took the pitcher from her, their hands brushing as he did so. The red haired woman's pale cheeks gained a little colour at that moment. She wasn't immune to how handsome the men before her were, but were this any other day she'd usually have been off in her own little world or too engrossed in something to notice. The two fighters seemed slightly taken back and Branowen, despite her pleasant smile she was tempted to turn to the book in her hands and see if she had over stepped some boundary by bringing them the drink. She turned her gaze to her book for a second before she was interrupted by their introductions. "I am Balian," Branowen gave a small curtsy to the small of the man. "This is Demetrios, and we thank you." Giving a light giggle Branowen nodded her head to the taller man before smiling at them. They looked like they could have used a drink after their fight. It's a pleasure to meet you both.

"I believe the word you are looking for... Pankration." Balian was given a curious gaze, before she quickly whipped out her book flipping through the pages trying to find a definition for the word he had given. I don't know what that means… She flipped through until finding a short badly translated passage about a large games and that it was a combat sport.

"Are you a philosopher...?" She looked up at the two before smiling sheepishly and closing her book. "I'd think she's more a scholar than philosopher," The eighteen year old turned her eyes back to the two men and laughed a little. Mostly yes, I work at the palace as the librarian. Learning and studying is something I am able to do because of my job and it's something I enjoy. Branowen ran a hand through her red hair and smiled up at the men. She'd always moved reading and learning, with her job at the library it enabled her to pursue her passion. If she had not gotten the job she would still be working with her family on the farm and would have little time for reading.

"It's the art of grappling," Branowen's attention was back on Balian when he spoke as she listened with rapt attention taking in everything that was said. "Wrestling, mostly." She nodded and pondered this, crossing her arms and tapping a finger on her chin while the two fighters talked between themselves. "Demetrios, will you have another pair perform for Augustus' guests?" Having quickly slipped into her own thoughts, something that was common and easy for the girl she was pulled back to reality by Balian speaking.

"My lady Branowen O'Floinn, I will be happy to answer any other questions." She turned her own grayish hazel eyes to his and stared into them as she spoke. Thank you, and you don't need to be so formal, I'm no noble. Just call me Branowen! She gave him a bright smile before continuing. I should congratulate you on your victory as well, it was very well fought. She gave a small bow and nod of her head to him. I was wondering what the rules to, ah, Pankration were? And educations, where do you learn this sport? Are you and Demetrios warriors like the knights of Camelot or something entirely different? She looked at him with a curious expression, her head tilted to the side and her eyes never leaving his.

○wordcount-six hundred ninety four-○tag-Balian-○notes-Thank you, and I was ecstatic when I saw Balian's app. I love Roman history and the character was really interesting to me. –○credit branowen of legends of pendragon!

[Balian of Tiberium]

Balian found Branowen surprisingly easy to speak with. In fact, she spurred him to listen and draw nearer, and to even offer his own word. That, and Augustus Aurelius himself seemed to approve from afar with the upturn of his chin. It was something that Balian caught out of the corner of his eyes; the man speaking with another who held a passing resemblance to the young woman. Nonetheless, Augustus approved and who was Balian to deny Branowen...?

It's then his eyes returned to Branowen's own gaze to settle evenly.

"Branowen," Balian uttered her name by way of reflex. It felt strange within his mouth, but right, as well. Yet, when she spoke of his victory and even congratulated him, all of that didn't seem to matter. Instead, Balian was drawn to her and looked to her face. She was so utterly genuine.

"I..." Balian trailed and looked thoughtful. Unlike Demetrios who had once lived a life as a freeman and soldier within his own proper nation, Balian had never known a free life. In fact, Balian had only known the life of the domus albeit Augustus Aurelius treated him well enough and near like a son. Balian knew very little beyond the open-air courtyard of the domus he had been raised within. How could one explain such a thing to another...?

Daring...Innovative...

Augustus was all of these and his ways were different than any text would assume.

"There are no rules beyond no eye gouging and biting," Balian told her simply.

Then there was more...oh, so much more to speak of...!

"I learned firsthand in Tiberium under Augustus Aurelius' tutelage." Balian replied with ease and looked thoughtful. "Although the military of Tiberium may teach a semblance of these arts, normally men who compete tend to be..." Balian trailed. "...well, thoughtfully chosen by another." Balian uttered. "One would learn the full-contact art within a domus under chosen trainers for each field." He added with the matter-of-fact tone of a...well, scholar of sorts.

Except Balian was anything but.

There was a pause then as Balian furrowed his brow. The notion of both Balian and Demetrios being compared to the knights of Camelot was an amusing albeit flattering thought. He couldn't help but shake his head at her. "Different," he said suddenly. "Much...Much different."

There was a pause then as Balian's tongue smoothed along his lower lip.

"I...No," Balian breathed out heavily. "Yes, we strive for honor and fame, and even for glory. To be accepted...Yet, we are not freemen like your men of Camelot, Branowen. We are slaves chosen specifically to perform for the masses. Although some men may have lived freely before being enslaved, there are those who have never tasted such freedom before..." Balian stated and pursed his mouth. Then the admittance of somewhat that Balian thought he wouldn't tell anyone. Truth be told, Balian had never truly been bothered with such. After all, one cannot miss what one never had.

"I learned as a child," Balian told her and used himself as an example.

Yet, Balian left out the fact that he had been taken as a child.

Although...Idly Balian wondered what she would think of that.

The truth was, was that Balian was uncertain of Camelot's stand on slavery. There were nations that were against such a thing and abolished the act. Then there were others, like Tiberium, that embraced the enslavement of others wholeheartedly. Balian, like Demetrios and the others who were enlisted by Augustus Aurelius, were his entirely.

"Do the men of Camelot compete...?" Balian dared to ask and looked genuinely curious.

[Branowen O'Floinn]

Branowen stared at Balian when he said her name, wondering if he was going to ask her something but when he said nothing she went back to studying him. He was quite handsome and from his build she could only guess what he would look like in armor and she felt her cheeks burn red at the mental image. Why was she thinking of such a thing? He started to say something else bit trailed off and her usually out of focus eyes watched him. Branowen tilted her head to the side ignoring the stray strands of shocking red hair that fell over her brows and eyes.

The rules of the game were simple enough for Branowen to understand, though she only had one question to ask having been lost in her own mind when the fight started she had a question or two. "Is there any defined fighting space? Like a ring or something? Is there an area that if anyone stepped out of that would be disqualified? What about a starting position or ritual to begin? In Tournament knights bow to the king and bow to each other, what about you?" She turned her gaze back to his eyes and waited for his reply.

Talking to Balian was easy, the eighteen year old women was used to people talking down to her or talking with a disproving tone. On the other hand talking to the foreign man it was like they were just two people, they were mutually interested in talking with each other. Conversation was easy and He didn't seem to mind all her questions or her company.

Learning of Balian's education in Pankration was interesting, though she found the idea very interesting. A special teacher for each art. "So, there are others in the house besides you and Demetrios who are learning from sir Augustus? Do you think he would be open to teaching others? I'm sure my brother would be pleased if he was! And if he was allowed that is, Mam would fight him tooth-n-nail at it 'likely, and if she could convince my Da to day no then Conall will just sulk around the house like a kicked puppy." Branowen let out a giggle looking over at her older twin brother. Conall who was talking to the master of the house caught her eyes and raised his hand waving it at his sister with a rose colored tint on his cheeks and the tips of his ears making them fade into his vibrant hair. Branowen just raised her hand and waved back with a pleasant, he was either excited about being here and talking to Augustus or slight drunk… possibly a combination of the two.

Could Balian not see himself as a knight. "Different? How is it different?" An innocent mind she'd spent most of her life shielded from the idea of slaves and she was a little dense. "If it matters for anything I think you'd make a lovely knight, very handsome." Branowen smiled up at the man hoping to get a smile out of him. The image of him in the armour and chain mail flashed in her mind again, earning a similar reddening of her cheeks.

The turn of conversation caused an unsure smile to slip onto her face. "A… slave? But that's wrong isn't it? Can't you earn you're freedom?" The Irish girl chewed on her bottom lip, it was a strange concept for her. She'd grown up with so much option and choice and opportunity. She really didn't know how to process that information but looked up at Balian. "Are you really unhappy in you're position? I'm not completely sure of Camelot's position on Slavery… I'll have to look it up when I get back to the library…" It was difficult for her to comprehend so she decided to push it out of her head for the moment once he answered one last question. Are you exceedingly unhappy here? How much freedom do you have as a… slave here?" She decided she didn't like the word, it hurt her just to day it. She wanted quickly to get away from that topic, at least until she'd had a few more drinks perhaps.

"The men of Camelot?" Branowen pondered how to explain the tournaments. Having personally only ever seen a few of them, and all of those she'd been dragged to by her brothers, she wasn't an expert or a major fan like many other in the bustling town. "Yes but not like you compete. The men who fight are knights and noble men, so peasants and lower cannot enter." She cast a look to her twin who was talking to the Augustus Aurelius, the owner of the marvellous house. He'd always wanted to compete but because they were not of noble birth they couldn't. "Sometimes nobles from different area's come to compete! They compete in areas such as jousting, sword fighting, fighting with staffs and archery. The winner usually gets a large sum of gold and glory. Running a hand though her vibrant hair and brushing it out of her eyes she tugged softly on a few of the strands before commenting on a personal observation of the tournaments that she'd been too.

"Even amongst the noble men there are gentlemanly rules that aren't written any where. For example: if an heir to a thrown competes most of the noble men let them win or go easy on them. I don't really understand that unwritten rule thing…" Branowen's gaze wondered to a nobleman who was talking with a group of women. If she remembered correctly he'd had to fight against the prince in a tournament a few weeks ago and had withdrawn when he was about to fight the prince. I don't understand it though, if someone's going to enter it's because that want to compete right, and surely it's degrading for the heir to win knowing that they won because everyone let them win. Better to lose with you're honour then win? So why go easy on them?" Like always Branowen's mind slipped off to ponder this before she pulled it back again, reminding herself that zoning out a conversation was rude and that she needed to get a hold on her mind before she either did something stupid or embarrassing. Embarrassing usually meant tripping, falling or running into things that were in plain sight. Her mind was a strange thing that teemed with thoughts and ideas on a veriety of subjects and Branowen found it easy to slip off into her own little world. Much to the annoyance of her employer and the other workers around the castle.

○wordcount-one thousand one hundred twelve-○tag-Balian-○notes– it's so long... sorry! I had a lot of muse. – ○credit branowen of legends of pendragon!

[Balian of Tiberium]

Balian looked somewhat amused then and there at her questions that seemed to follow one after the other. It was then that Balian lowered himself and buried his fingers within that deep, sun warmed sand, and lifted a handful for her to see. "This." He told her simply and those hard, calloused fingers parted to allow grains of sand to fall to the earth beneath his feet. "Where I compete, I fight upon blood and sand." Balian told her simply. Yet, her next query...ah! It made him smile somewhat albeit a tight one at that.

"Pray." Balian told her plainly. "I utter my prayers and hope to live another day. Then, when I do, I thank my gods and revel within the echo of a thousand voices," Balian admitted and looked aside for only a mere moment. The words uttered felt familiar within his mouth. They were words that Balian often found himself telling others whenever Augustus had events and had his able bodied men entertain. There had been other men that were genuinely curious, and women, too.

Despite the blood shed and the constant loss of life within the arena, Balian understood himself, and others, to have become more than the norm of their society. They were heroes upon that sand. They were beyond equal. They were champions. Yet, here...Balian wondered whether or not he would truly miss Tiberium. No longer would Balian have to hurt another and shed blood within the name of his domus. No longer would Balian have to sport the name of Champion of Aurelius. Instead, Balian was nothing more than an entertainment and amusement for Camelot's fat purses. Yet, Branowen changed that...somewhat, at least.

"There's Titus, too, who had come with us on the initial venture. Then there's Drustan." Balian uttered and turned upon his heel enough to gesture with his hand toward two men. They were the two men put to fight by Demetrios. Both of them, though, were wildly different from the stock Balian and Demetrios were bred from. In fact, Drustan's flesh was dark and lanky, whilst Titus had an olive complexion and was stocky albeit muscled beyond thought.

"Occasionally Augustus sends back for another pair of his men. It's dependent on how the people of Camelot take to us," Balian admits and looks thoughtful. "It seems that we've become somewhat of a commodity. At least somewhat to pass the time on." He told her and offered a slight smile. Yet, when she spoke of her brother, Balian found himself questioning whether or not Augustus would do such a thing. Balian doubted that Augustus would keep his secrets hidden for long. That, and the precious coin here was far too easy to make with less danger.

"I'm not certain," Balian admitted and followed her gaze back to her brother. The two looked alike and there was no denying that. They stuck out, too, even amidst the soft people of Camelot, and even moreso beside Augustus with his gray tresses drawn back and that robe adorning his portly body. Then the thought of her returning filled his mind. If her brother was allowed to participate, then would she come as well to study and examine them? Her scholarly pursuits would lead her back here. It was only right, or so Balian told himself.

"I may be able to speak to Augustus of that. I'm not certain whether or not he'd accept, but Camelot's different from Tiberium, and something tells me that Augustus likes the attention." He admits and looks past her to the man courting her brother undoubtedly to assure he'd have a regular there for betting on odds at best. Then she was speaking of knighthood and Balian found himself lifting his brows at her. He could hardly imagine himself with Camelot regalia. In fact, Balian had only seen the armored guards when they had entered, and thought their armor to be rather restricting at best and uncomfortable. Balian preferred his own armor.

"You are too kind, Branowen," he murmured and bowed his head to her.

Idly Balian wondered what would come of such compliments. He expected nothing but wanted for everything as men were wont to do. That, and his thoughts returned back to the thought of opening Augustus' domus as a school for the nobles and anyone who could afford such. Mayhap that would earn him and others a semblance of freedom. They could be teachers of the art.

"I could. I mean, we could," Balian admits when she spoke of slavery and freedom. "Depending on how many fights we've won at the arena. Yet, Augustus..." Balian trailed then. Augustus had had a falling out, and old ties had begun to fester like wounds. "We had to leave." Balian told her simply and then laughed. "Truth be told, even with my freedom, I wouldn't know where to go. I've never had a life beyond this, Branowen. It's all I've ever known since I was a child."

It was strange to admit that. Nonetheless, Augustus was kind to them.

Balian had no reason to complain.

Yet, when Branowen expressed concern and continued to question him, Balian felt warmed to the core. What could she do for him...? Nothing, truly. That, and Augustus could easily play them off as indentured servants with pay, food and beds to sleep within. They were treated well enough, too, so Balian wouldn't speak against Augustus; after all, the man was like a father to him. So, Balian only smiled at her.

"I'm fine, Branowen. He's a kind man," Balian stated firmly.

Balian was soothed then when talk returned to the men of Camelot. She spoke of them and soon Balian found out that the men who competed were noble and of a higher station. It sounded like the competitions within Tiberium. Yet, the difference was that Balian earned no coin. All he earned was a pass at life and glory. That, and the occasional death wasn't uncommon.

"How peculiar," Balian uttered and nearly gaped at her when she mentioned the unwritten rule. Yet, Balian could not exactly talk down about such a thing; after all, the Emperor of Tiberium did much the same. He held a firm belief that the games was a necessity of life. That, and often placed himself within such. Balian looked thoughtful then.

"I wouldn't let them win," Balian admitted and offered her a slight smile.

"I'd humble them a bit. Although I'm certain I'd earn myself a lashing for attacking a noble, or royalty," Balian said but laughed at the notion. He wrinkled his nose then and shook his head at the thought. "I doubt I'd ever have the chance though...Branowen," Balian breathed out then and continued to watch her. She continued to brush her fingers through her hair, and Balian himself longed to tangle his fingers and feel her soft tresses. He wanted to feel how soft her hair was.

She seemed so careless of her beauty though...

It was then that Demetrios voice filled his mind.

Mayhap she'd ask Augustus to study you personally.

The thought of standing mothernaked for her to touch and explore made him ache. He had to will a semblance of calm within him; keep himself from trembling, too. Yet, she was young and beautiful, and seemingly soft. She had fair flesh, vibrant hair and bright eyes, and her hands were small and looked soft to the touch. He wanted to feel her walk her fingertips step-by-aching-step along the line of his scars and muscles. He wanted to watch the look on her face.

"Mayhap Augustus will allow you come often," Balian told her suddenly. "To speak with me. I mean, us. To question us on what we do and study us." He added.



[It's no problem, really! You're a wonderful writer, and I love your posts. So long as you're having fun then I'm happy too!]

[Branowen O'Floinn]

The young woman watched the sand slip from his fingers to the ground below. It was an easy answer to her question and she smiled, enjoying her conversation with Balian more and more. Most people would have tried to make a more scholarly description of their battleground, tried to glorify it in any way possible. Balian portrayed his battle ground not as some place filled with glory that seemed unlike any other place. The place that Balian's description lead Branowen's mind was a place that was simple and human, a real place that made Branowen turn in a circle and imagine Balian and Demetrios practice wrestling with each other under the watchful eye of Augustus Aurelius. Completing her circle she looked into the fighter's blue eyes and spoke. "I can defiantly see that."

Her next questions she only realized may have been too personal when she saw his tight smile. "Well, I think you're gods have been smiled down on you for a little while now, both with victory and good friends!" She motioned with her pale hand to Demetrios who she figured was a good friend of Balian's. She'd watched them a little before approaching them and couldn't help but think that they looked live very good friends. The kind of friends who had been through a lot together, brothers in arms was perhaps the better term for it. Maybe it was the journey from, if she recalled the name correctly, Tiberium or their occupation (and possibly in spite of it) they looked like friends who would fight back to back with each other if it came to it. The kind of friends who would do their jobs fighting each other for the entertainment of other would start commenting on each other's moves and forms in jest and for improvement. Branowen wasn't sure how many people like that there were in the world, but she knew it wasn't a great number. She took a moment to smile over to Demetrios when he looked their way before also smiling at Balian.

Branowen listened to the short introduction of the others who learnt under Lord Aurelius, and she turned her gaze to them watching them for a few moments before commenting on them. "Their skills are very good, but I do have to say their fight is not as good as Demetrios and your fight, Balian. Are they both from Tiberium as well, or have they come from a different place?" Branowen decided she liked saying Balian's name, it felt sweet on her tongue like her favourite candy.

When he talked about Augustus sending for more of his men she wondered just how many people studied under the man. Looking at the portly man who didn't look like the most athletic figure, or someone who'd come to train fighters like Balian who was tall, muscular and fit… not to mention handsome. Augustus was indeed an interesting man who could draw crowds to him but for a different reason then the handsome man in front of Branowen. The owner of the house has an air about him that exuded respect, authority and the exoticness of a foreign land. People were drawn to him because of that and not his looks (which was probably a good thing for the man).

When Branowen thought of her brother studying under the houses owner she couldn't help but think if Conall wanted to go then certainly her other brothers were going to want to as well. Well if he does be can possibly expect a lot of O'Floinn children then. I'm one of twelve, well soon to be thirteen and excluding two of us they're all boys. A good question might be to ask what age you start your training? Just so I can possibly exclude and strongly discourage some of my siblings before they all flock here to try and join if it is possible. Other wise Sir Augustus may wake up one morning to find a herd of red headed men at his door." Branowen then paused to think about that before adding, "and an angry pregnant woman with a ladle poised to hit her sons with (and maybe her husband, if Dad decides he want to start fighting again)." The mental image was laughable, the man opening his door to find all her brothers practically begging to train under him while also cowering in fear of a five month pregnant woman in a dress wielding a fearsome ladle over her head. What she wouldn't give to see Augustus Aurelius's face at that moment. "What a sight that would be." She covered her mouth to giggle at her own imagination, her gaze turning to the man of the house and her brother.

What could Balian do if he was free… Branowen twirled her hair around her pale fingers as she though, trying to think of some jobs for the man in front of her. "If he opened his house as a school for people to learn he could higher you back as a teacher? The Army might be interested in employing you to help with their trainees… hmm… I'm sure if you looked around you could find tons of opportunities for other work!" The young woman gave him a hopeful smile, hoping she'd helped him get at least a few ideas for jobs if he gained his freedom.

He said he was okay and she gave him a pleasant smile. As long as he was sure that he was okay that everything was fine then she was content. "Alright, if you're sure, and if you ever need anything I'm always here!" She nodded to herself as she said that pulling her green wrap tighter around her arms to keep herself warm. The air in the courtyard like area had cooled slightly though no one else seemed really bothered by it and Branowen wasn't about to draw attention to it and inconvenience anyone.

Letting a noble or royalty win was just wrong in Branowen's view as well. "It's a waste in my view. Royalty should be able to accept defeat just as well as they should be able to accept a victory. They'd never know their own ability if everyone was going easy on them. People won't be nice and handicap themselves in a real battle anyway. If anything they'd fight faster and harder in the heat of battle." It was the truth of the matter. In real life people were not just fighting for a purse of money and glory, they were fighting for their lives and given the opportunity they would not just idly lay down their life for a royal to claim victory.

When he spoke of Augustus possibly letting her come by more often and talk with him she was elated. She had heard him mention talking to the others as well but she was more interested in talking to him then the others who were here. Really? I would love to be able to talk to you more! If it were possible to watch you, and the other, practice as well? Unless Sir Augustus liked to keep you're training private of course. You cannot imagine how happy that would make me! She took an excited step but stood on the loose hem of her white dress. Tilting dangerously she was pitched forward, starting to fall forward with the ground fast approaching Branowen drew her hands in front of her, hoping to stop her fall as her book slipped from it's place tucked under her arm.

○wordcount-one thousand two hundred fifty five-○tag-Balian-○notes–again, lots and lots of muse! – ○credit branowen of legends of pendragon!

[Balian of Tiberium]

"We are different stock." Balian uttered suddenly. "Although," Balian trailed, "I'm not entirely certain what my mother and father were. I know Demetrios was born and bred Tiberium stock. The others...ah, I'm not so certain." He admitted and eyed the darker man and then the other thereafter. He had realized then that he had never questioned them of where they had come from. Although, to be fair, such a thing never crossed Balian's mind before; after all, within the arena, the only thing that mattered was whether or not they could be trusted.

They were certainly trust worthy companions.

When she spoke of her family, though, Balian looked amused. That, and Balian could already see Augustus singing happily of the coin he could make to afford his lavish lifestyle. Part of Balian knew then and there that Augustus would undoubtedly accept the suggestion. That Augustus would eagerly open his domus to those who wanted to learn. Despite that, Balian looked somewhat horrified at the thought of so many siblings.

"You have a rather large family, Branowen," he uttered and met her gaze evenly. There, within his eyes, she'd see the shock and surprise there. Yet, at her query about training and the age when Balian had learned...well, Balian wasn't certain of how she'd react to his own answer. Well, there was only one true way to find such a thing out. So, Balian told her the truth.

"I was only ten when I had begun to learn," he admitted to her. There was a pause though before Balian shook his head. "I wouldn't recommend for them to join at such a young age though. I...well, I was a different circumstance." He told her simply. It was true, though, Balian had been groomed for such and the rigorous training was harsh and cruel. It was demanding. Yet, Balian wasn't certain of the rules Augustus Aurelius may settle on. He may allow youths to venture into the arts of Pankration and the close quarters combat that was taught.

"I believe Augustus may be more than happy over such a thing," Balian admitted.

"That, and I think the sight would be a splendid one," Balian added and laughed.

She was so utterly young and carefree. It nearly made him ache to know that such a woman could...well, exist within such a crude world. If she had been within Tiberium then there was no doubt, at least within Balian's mind, that her stand on things would different. That she wouldn't even be considering the possibility of him being hired for...well, anything. Then again, Augustus may be fond of the notion. That, and Balian could urge for such freedoms. Perhaps such a thing would be possible and Balian could have more than he had ever longed for. After all, Balian had been close to his freedom within Tiberium. So, why would Augustus deny him? It made sense.

"Thank you, Branowen. I will always remember that," Balian assured her with a smile.

He would always remember...Yet, that was not the question. The true question would be whether or not he would flock to her. What would she do for him...? Nothing. Perhaps she would surprise him though. Truth be told, Balian knew that anything was possible. Nonetheless, the way she spoke of royalty and any nobility, made Balian smile. "It's sad but true, Branowen, but who are to look down upon them as that? If something unfortunate would befall them then...well, who knows what may come of that?" Balian questioned and lifted one shoulder with a shrug of dismissal.

Then she spoke of wanting to watch them. Balian found himself aching at the thought. That, and he nodded. "Yes," he breathed out. "I believe that Augustus would allow you to watch us. If...If that's what you want," he told her. It wasn't uncommon back within Tiberium. So, Balian didn't see why not even now. Nonetheless, Balian was pleased that he could make her happy. Yet, when she stepped forth and had begun to pitch, the entire world seemed to slow and Balian's heart skipped a beat within his chest. It was then that Balian found himself reaching forth.

He caught her within his arms and embraced her firmly until her soft, fair body was enveloped within the circle of his arms and her form pressed upon him. The hard line of his body was there ever present and smothering her as each muscle rippled. She'd feel the sweat there and the oil. She'd feel the patches of sunwarmed sand upon his naked skin as he held her against himself to assure she would not hurt herself. All the while Balian's hands settled and held upon her and his face tipped to brush upon her vibrant her. It was then, too, that a collective gasp sounded.

All the while he held her and longed to keep her there.

"Are you alright?" He questioned of her with his mouth moving against her hair. Within moments Balian reluctantly held her somewhat at arm's length. His chin tucked upon his chest and his gaze searched her face genuinely.

[Branowen O'Floinn]

Finding out that Balian was not certain of his parent's origins was slightly saddening to Branowen. She was beginning to guess that he hadn't known them for very long it at all, especially if he started training as such a young age. "You were all trained under Augustus from the start? Or did some of the others come from different tutors? How many other men does Augustus have to send for?" Her gaze shifted to the three other men who studied under Augustus before going to the man himself. Surely there cannot have been many more, even four seemed like a lot for one man to teach all by him self. It seemed a lot and the cost of food, clothes and armour for them must be a very great sum. More then Branowen wanted to think about. Then again, how much money does it take to cloth, feed and provide for twelve children? Though most of them worn hand me downs excluding Branowen that is, who was lucky in being the first girl. She'd got to wear mostly new clothes growing up. But it couldn't compare to feeding men who spent vast amounts of time training to fight.

Seeing the shock and surprise in Balian's eyes when she spoke of the side of her family, combined with the somewhat horrified look caused her to burst into a laugh tossing her head back and holding her sides. Collecting herself she started to talk again slightly out of breath. "Yes I do. We seem to multiply quickly as well. With most of my older brothers married and either expecting children or already having them. I don't think my parents can actually keep track of how many of us there are." She though of family dinners where the table seemed impossibly small for the family, and then to what means were like with that many children."You and the other's should come to the family gatherings we have! Anything you've learn here would come in handy. The second the food is ready it’s a free for all, and you'd think you had walked in on a pack of wild beasts with a fresh kill." The eighteen year old giggled at the though, because it was so easy to imagine her siblings as wild animals.

Which was quite actually what family dinners were like: there were always people fighting over the last piece of something and the smartest weasel, usually either Branowen of one of her eldest siblings, who snatched it up while everyone was fighting. On a few cases people had actually come out of a dinner with injuries and wounded egos. This made her think that if most of her siblings were going to learn the art of wrestling, then she was going to have to start reminding her Mam to move the furniture to a safer area at gatherings, along with any valuables. Dinners were going to start getting a lot more lethal. She feared for the future of her family, she really did.

It seemed so shocking to think that someone had started training to fight at such a young age, despite having grown up with brothers who were always playing war and fighting games. But even on his recommendation it didn't exclude many in her family. "So you've managed narrowed it down to eight of my siblings on Sir Augustus's door step. I'm sure he'll be very pleased and what a splendid sight it will be, I agree with you Balian. I'll just have to tag along to see it, and visit you again." She beamed up at Balian, her eyes alight with laughter. The vibrant red haired women really did want to return to this place to talk with Balian again. He was an interesting person to talk to and she was comfortable around him, unlike many other people she had talked to where Branowen had felt inferior, belittled her or that they were treating her like a child. With Balian she felt like an equal, and not like she was being outcast or inferior because of her gender, background or knowledge.

She realized that there wasn't much she could do in the way of helping him, but she was willing to do her best in any case if she was needed. The most ready thing she could provide him with was a place to stay, food, and clothing ('borrowed' from her brothers). She could help him look for a job and teach him anything he needed to learn. Branowen would dive into any thing to help like she would any other opportunity: head first and without looking back or regretting her decision. She'd work as hard as she could to help him in any was possible. The young woman just gave him a bright smile with her eyes filled with care, wordlessly trying to convey that she would try to help him in anyway possibly if he needed it.

Royalty was a controversial subject for Branowen; after all she was on the Kings payroll as the Palace Librarian despite her private views of royalty and the unwritten rules of knighthood that seemed to revolve and changed for them. As a scholar, she had made several notes on royalty, many of them not taking kindly to the way rules were bent for them and the disrespect they could give their people for the comfort of nobles. "Sometimes I think people would be better of without Royalty, maybe govern themselves like some of the smaller towns. Deciding what's important for themselves as a community." She sighed but set aside her thoughts in return of more cheerful ones.

She brightened up when Balian said that Augustus might allow her to watch. "I would like to watch you train, it would be truly splendid." She smiled up at him as she spoke her grayish hazel eyes never leaving his.

Tripping was not something that was uncommon for Branowen. With her head usually far above the clouds and other thoughts on her mind tripping and running into things was a normal occurrence. She'd managed to avoid any mishaps so far this evening but that time had ended. What was more shocking to her was that someone reached out and saved her from sprawling out on the ground. Her book, something she'd usually be extremely worried about was forgotten on the ground as she found her body enveloped in Balian's arms. She could feel his muscle rippling against her own skin as well as the sweat and oil from his match with Demetrios. Her mind fogged over as her hands came to rest on his chest and arms where she could feel the sun warmed sand and the heat of his body. Her head came to rest on his shoulder as she stood in his grasp. She wished for that moment to last for a thousand years but as quickly as it happened it was over as she found herself pulled away as he asked her a question. With her mind still slightly fogged over it took her a second to realize he had addressed her. "Ah, yes thank you." At that moment her cheeks and the top of her ears burned several different shades of red and pink before finally settling back to its natural color.

Slowly, and regrettably on her part for her wanted to keep them there, Branowen let her hands slide down his arms and chest to rest back by her side. "Apparently gracefulness if only temporary. I appear to be back to my clumsy self again." She smiled shyly down at the ground.

○wordcount-one thousand two hundred sixty four- ○tag-Balian Aurelius-○notes –none. – ○credit – branowen of legends of pendragon! –

[Balian of Tiberium]

There was a part of Balian that questioned whether or not Augustus would approve of what Balian was sharing with Branowen. If the man hadn't then Balian was more than certain that Augustus would have sauntered on over and steered the young woman away from the grappler. Yet, Augustus hadn't. Instead, the older man only smiled every so often toward him and seemed content with the fact that Camelot brought on a new life for him...for them.

Despite that, Balian had never wanted for anything...

At least not until that very moment.

He had caught the young woman up within his arms and held her firm. Yet, the moment her hands settled upon his chest and Balian felt the warmth from beneath her fair and dainty hands...ah! Balian ached and nearly trembled. He savored the feel of her fingertips smoothing downward and along his arms, and then the brush of her hair upon his shoulder. Her scent was overwhelming then and there, and filled his nostrils and danced upon his tongue.

He could taste her upon the air.

Yet, Balian had soon held her mindfully at arm's length lest anyone think less of her.

Balian's eyes were everywhere at once. They roamed over her comely features, her vibrant hair and her lips. They trailed down the arch of her slender throat and the swell of her bosom beneath her gown. That, and along the length of her form beneath her clothing to the ends of her feet to the tips of her fingers. There was no doubt to Balian that Branowen was an attractive woman and her blush made her fair flesh and vibrant hair stand out more than ever. It made Balian want to touch her and brush his lips upon her flesh to feel the heat under her flesh.

Her hands trailed and Balian longed for her to linger.

Idly Balian wondered whether or not she'd ask to study him more...well, closely. There were scholars who made sketches from time to time. Balian wondered whether or not Branowen would want to sketch him or not. It was a thought that made Balian shudder. After all, Branowen was undoubtedly a proper woman and to ask a strange man to stand there mothernaked for art as they did within Tiberium...well, that wouldn't happen or so Balian thought.

Branowen spoke and her gaze flitted to the sand beneath their feet. Yet, Balian did not look down on her. He couldn't. He lifted his hand and dared to brush his hard fingertips along her chin only to upturn her face. "Then I shall catch you when you fall, Branowen." He assured her and looked away for only a moment. "Mayhap we should step out of the heat? You will be able to sit and savor the shade. That, and see more of the domus." Balian assured and brushed his fingertips from her chin only to touch over her hair for a fleeting moment. He looked like a moth drawn to a flame.

If anyone had noticed, no one uttered a word. Truth be told, Balian didn't even think to look at anyone then and there. In fact, Balian's eyes were only on Branowen within those moments. At least until he was lowering himself from her and reaching for the book that had dropped to the sun warmed sand between them. He lifted such and with one arm cradled the book as his freehand wiped such clean of any clinging sand. He lolled his head and met her gaze evenly.

It was then that Balian recalled why she was here for.

Knowledge.

"I'm certain that Augustus will be more than eager to tell you of his life," Balian admitted. "He was a competitor once, too, but he had earned his freedom. Now, though, well...Augustus has earned a considerable amount of coin training others like myself." Balian confessed and met her gaze evenly. "The men have learned under Augustus." He answered her query from earlier. "Although there are certain others Augustus will hire on to teach us of certain weaponry and specialties." Balian paused then and looked thoughtful. "Mayhap your family will like to come here one night...?"

He had dared to ask her something that Augustus would undoubtedly find peculiar. Yet, who could blame Balian...? He reached for her hand with his free one and lifted her hand to the book.

He smiled at her.

[Branowen O'Floinn]

Her gaze stayed on the light soil that lay beneath their feet, and danced slightly in the breeze that ran though the courtyard and halls of the domus. It seemed impossible to believe that they were still in Camelot and just beyond the door lay the streets she knew so well. Even the soil that she had spent most of her youth running and dancing on seemed so foreign. Augustus Aurelius had build himself a little slice of paradise as far as Branowen was concerned, and all it took to enter was a simple step over the thresh hold of his door and you were transported far far from home. There was no doubt that his home was to be frequented by nobles and the like for a long time. What a culture shock it must be though for Augustus, Balian and the others. There was no doubt that there must be many major differences between Camelot and Tiberium.

A hand brushed along her chin and as the hand tipped her head up her eyes followed to meet Balian's enticing blue ones. His words touched her, the light that had diminished slightly because of her momentary shyness came back to her eyes. A smile painted itself onto her pink lips and it took her a moment to reply. No one had ever said anything like that to her before and she was sure her heart had skipped a beat and that somehow butterflies had burst to life in her stomach, flittering around. "I thank you, Balian, though I should warn you that I think I find myself doing the most dangerous kind of falling as we speak…" With that she left her words hanging in the air and turned her attention to his next words.

It wasn't until he mentioned the heat did she actually realize how warm it was. Branowen thanked her lucky stars that she had decided to wear a white dress instead of the dark red one that she had previously been laid out. Her green wrap was not helping with the temperature either though the embroidered fabric dangled loosely from her arms. "I do think that would be a splendid idea, the sun does appear to be shining down on us with all its might doesn't it? It couldn't have been a better day for a party though." She turned to look up at the sun covering her eyes; the sky was a bright blue with out a cloud to shade the town or the crops from the burning star. Turning back to Balian she nodded to him. "Sitting down can wait! That is more for the frailer noble women. I like you're idea of seeing more of this lovely domus. I tried exploring earlier but I didn't want to be impolite and tread some where I was not allowed." Her smile grew even more as she spoke, this time with glee at the thought of getting to do the exploring that she had originally come here to do.

The crowd around the two was completely lost in Branowen's eyes. All there was in the world for her was Balian and herself, she would not have cared if everyone was staring at them, if everyone was laughing or ridiculing them. She watched as Balian bend down and pick up her book, she blinked and stared at it in shock. How could she have forgotten about it? The care he gave the book as he brushed the cover warmed her heart. Books had been Branowen's first love, everything she had made herself into and learned was all because of books and the knowledge they could bring to people. Meeting his gaze her gave him a dazzling smile. "Thank you, Balian."

Balian began to speak of Augustus and how he had once been a competitor, she found it interesting and wondered if that was part of his charm as well, if people were draw to him because of that like Branowen was drawn to Balian. If Augustus was once a grappler like Balian then surely there was hope for all men like Balian and Demetrios to continue. That could continue on knowing that they were not doomed to an entire life wrestling for the entertainment of others, to know that they could have a future of their own making. "if you had not told me I never would have guessed, I though the skills he was teaching you were just things he had picked up or observed. To know that he was once in your position must give you great confident in what he is teaching you, to know it is not just empty words repeated to every student." More aware of her surroundings she tugged lightly at her wrap and glanced over at Augustus. One would not guess but upon further inspection she could see some of the scars on his arms, many had faded over time but they would always be present.

The though of her family coming over was something difficult to grasp. "If it were possible to do so I can ensure that all of my family would enjoy it. Though, the amount of food that would be needed to placate my brothers might be shocking to Sir Augustus. It would be an evening most worth anything. She gave him another smile, her brother was obviously enjoying himself. Returning would probably be something that he would enjoy.

A rough hand took hers gently and she turned her gaze to their hands as he guided it to the book. Taking it in her hand she slipped it under her arm and smiled up at Balian, thanking him again before wrapping her arm lightly around his muscled one. Smiling up at him she motioned with her other hand for him to lead their exploration of the domus.

○wordcount-nine hundred seventy one - ○tag-Balian Aurelius-○notes –none.– ○credit – branowen of legends of pendragon! –

[Balian of Tiberium]

Branowen could make Balian smile rather easily. In fact, Balian couldn't help the amusement and pleasure that suddenly flooded him. He found himself hanging onto nearly every word she uttered and savored her presence as a whole. Truth be told, Balian wanted more as men were wont to do. Yet, no one could exactly blame Balian. He had done what was expected of him. He had served under Augustus Aurelius, and he had earned his domus honor. He had become the Champion of Aurelius, and the pride of Tiberium through his performances within the arena.

He had been close to freedom...

...Augustus had somewhat denied that of him.

Yet, even with freedom, where would Balian wander off to...? The truth was, was that Balian didn't even consider any possibilities for himself beyond the domus. At least not until he met Branowen. The young woman made him ache for the things that Balian wouldn't normally allow to blind him. Yet, here was Balian finding himself swaddled by her warmth, scent and presence altogether, and wanting more, more and more.

Idly Balian wondered whether or not she would allow herself to draw so near to him. Yet, Balian was suddenly aware that she may only be polite to him. That his wants would prove fruitless and feeble at most. That she wouldn't allow anything more beyond a friendship if even that. Yet, Balian had nothing at the moment. So, there was nothing to lose and nothing to be upset over, or so Balian thought. Nonetheless, Balian found himself savoring the moment and even smiled.

"I was groomed for the dangerous sort," he playfully replied.

Then Branowen surprised him with her enthusiasm. The fact that she didn't wish to settle down but explore the domus took him aback...well, somewhat. He had thought she would prefer to settle within the shade for a moment and catch her breath. He had thought that sun was becoming somewhat of a problem for her, but the way she spoke told him otherwise. That, and her smile seemed to grow even wider as she spoke, and her excitement was reflected there within her eyes.

Then that smiled more dazzling than ever before and he became aware that her eyes were only meant for him. Balian felt a heat flush throughout his cheeks and he actually blushed...well, somewhat. He had never felt the attention of a woman as she offered him. Although that's not to say that Balian hadn't bedded a woman, but that had been a purely physical release; somewhat offered to the men after a string of consecutives victories and earnings. This was far different.

She looked to him with a fondness he had never known before.

It warmed him to the core to be genuinely wanted then and there; after all, Balian had not known that from a woman before. Yet, Balian wondered whether or not she was only kind to him to extract knowledge, or mayhap she truly was genuine. Nonetheless, they spoke of Augustus and Balian nodded to her words and even offered a slight smile.

"He's a kind man, Branowen. If not for him...then I am certain I'd be elsewhere and not quite as successful. I wouldn't be here speaking with you." Balian confessed and set his teeth upon his lower lip. He followed her gaze then toward Augustus who was once more distracted by her brother. The man may have been portly now but that was due to a life that Augustus could now afford. Yet, once upon a time ago, Augustus Aurelius had once been a lean and fine cut man as well.

Idly Balian wondered whether or not he'd manage to settle down as Augustus had.

It wasn't long until she had slipped her arm around his own though; warm, bare and slick with sweat. His breath hitched for a moment as she gestured for him to lead the way. So, Balian did and without a hitch at that. He took one step and then another, and within moments they were stepping through the porticoes and within the shade of the open-air corridor that flanked the courtyard. Balian spoke, though, as he lead her along and over the marble floor and down the corridor.

"I will speak to Augustus about dinner. I'm certain he'd be more than pleased to have your family if he knows that they are genuinely interested." Balian admitted. It was something that Balian himself considered. He'd have to speak to Augustus afterward though when their guests have already left. As for the moment though...well, Branowen wanted to see the domus.

They first passed a number of rooms that were meant for the men who were continuing their training here from storerooms for weaponry, armor and clothing to rooms full of medical supplies to that of the rooms that the men had all to their own. Yet, Balian led her not to one of this but to a narrow stairwell that led upward and into the domus proper where they were met by beautifully painted walls of turquoise that were elaborately laid out. Within the atrium, which was the focal point of the domus, contained an altar to their gods with stone statues with beatific faces. Yet, leading off from the atrium was the bedrooms and the dining room. That, and much more.

Balian wasted no time and took her to the dining room where guests often reclined upon couches to eat or savor a semblance of time amognst themselves. He gestured the room to her with one hand. What she'd find there were foreign objects and furniture; many things that Camelot did not have. Yet, there was something that suddenly came to mind as Balian furrowed his brow.

"If you do not wish to sit, mayhap I should show you the library then?" Balian asked.

[Branowen O'Floinn]

The bright sun shone mercilessly down on the domus and many of the noble women that were attending Augustus Aurelius's party had not placed a foot outside the shaded areas. It wasn't a wonder why many men thought that women were considered fragile and frail creatures, with noble women who acted like such and lower classes trying to emulate the nobles.

Branowen had spent most of her childhood living and working on a farm. The O'Floinn family was a close knit bunch who tried to help each other in any way possible, and in many cases continued to do so. Working on a farm meant early mornings, late nights and long hours outside regardless of the weather. It was needless to say that weather was not something that slowed down any of the O'Floinn children.

Aside from Branowen's complete lack of care for the weather was her great interest in further exploring the beautiful house. Her previous attempts at wondering had been stopped by wither conversations with other people and not wanting to over step her boundaries in Sir Augustus house. With the handsome grappler as her guide though she would get to explore the house, talk more with Balian and not have to worry about wondering somewhere she might not be allowed. It was an opportunity she wouldn't pass up for all the books in the world.

The conversation turned back to the homes owner and watched him with her greyish hazel eyes while he spoke. An idea was planted in her mind as he spoke of how he would no be there in Camelot without Sir Augustus; it made her note to herself that she would have to thank the man later. The Irish woman smiled kindly at the man from their position in the sun before her gaze was drawn back to Balian.

With her arm wrapped around his she walked next to him as they slipped from the courtyard into the shade. There was a noticeable drop in the temperature once they were out of the sun but Branowen didn't give it another thought as her attention was fully on Balian.

The thought of seeing Balian again made Branowen positively giddy with excitement. Her family was always up for a dinner with others. While Conall and Branowen were the pair, aside from Caith who was married to a very low ranking noble woman, who spent the most amount of time mingling with nobles and the like because of Branowen's job at the palace and her twin's constant tagging along. Her family on the other hand spent most of their time interacting with only themselves and the other peasants at the market. The O'Floinn parents and children would be very interested in a dinner with Augustus Aurelius, not just for the conversation but for the exoticness of his house and lifestyle.

The pair passed a number of rooms that Branowen only glanced at quickly, they appeared to be weapons rooms, clothing rooms, and an infirmary like room. Her eyes flitted over these rooms and she was curious why they did not further investigate until Balian lean them to the stairwell. As they walked up the steps she tightened her grip on his arm and held up her skirt, not wanting to trip and cause more work for him though she did stumble a few times.

At the top of the stairs she was amazed by what she sae. The walls were painted a beautiful turquoise that was like nothing like the bland walls of Camelot. An atrium that drew her eyes away from the stunning walls and it contained a beautiful alter to what she guessed were their gods. From their position she could see statures and she looked back at Balian asking him with a curious tone, "Who are they of? The statues, that is." Her eyes held her curiosity as she met his gaze.

Whisked away from the area Branowen found herself being lead into what she could only guess what a dining room of sorts. The idea of eating while reclining was extremely foreign to the eighteen year old. She slipped her arm from his and wondered around; she even tried reclining on one of the couches before sitting up and inspecting some of the other furniture and objects that were defiantly not like anything she'd seen in Camelot. Her eyes filled with wonder and she wondered the room inspecting everything that she could see.

It was amazing what one little word could do to a person. Library

[/b], defined as a room where books are kept. Something so simple yet Branowen's whole body seemed to spring up, a newly animated at the though of a library. Light danced in her eyes as she quickly trotted back to Balian's side, grabbing onto his arm with both hands and shaking it like an excited child. "A library?! Gosh, really?! There's a library? Just when I thought this place couldn't get any better, a library!" She shook his arm harder a gleeful smile on her face as she stared around the room, almost as if she was trying to pinpoint the location of said room that very second. Her eyes wildly darted around the dining area taking in everything that they passed over, taking it all in before the expedition to the library.

After turning full circle she reached out with her small hand, interlinking her slender fingers with Balian's large rough ones. Looking up at him she pointed forward, in a random direction, and with a cheerful tone, proclaimed, "Onward, to the Library!" before a string of giggles left her lips. Branowen was one of those people who was easily pleased and entertained. Her hand slipped back to her side holding her book close to her. She hopped from one foot to the other, unable to stand still. Balian had managed to steal some of her heart, but the rest remained trapped in the pages of books.
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○wordcount-nine hundred ninety two - ○tag-Balian Aurelius-○notes –none.– ○credit – branowen of legends of pendragon! –

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[Balian of Tiberium]

Balian knew that Branowen would have a dozen questions for him by the time they sauntered through the domus. In fact, Balian prepared himself for such the moment they had entered the atrium. It's not that Balian minded so much though. Truth be told, Balian was pleased to see that Branowen had a healthy appetite for knowledge and wouldn't lean toward a preconceived notion of his people; after all, they may seem primitive in a certain light but in others they were much more than that.

So, when Branowen questioned him about the altar and the gods that they prayed to, Balian was more than patient with her. "Bacchus," Balian had told her. "God of agriculture, theatre and ecstasy." Balian uttered and lifted his hand to the other. "Minerva. The Goddess of wisdom, intelligence and learning." Then his hand lifted toward one more. "Mars. The God of War." He told her. "Whom we pray to before battle for strength." Then the last of all...

"Vesta," Balian breathed out. "The Goddess of the hearth and home."

It had been more than obvious that Vesta held a place within Balian's heart over Mars. Despite the fact that he had been so far from Tiberium, Balian's true home was here beside Augustus Aurelius. Beside the man who had given him a proper life to earn honor and eventually his freedom. Yet, now freedom seemed so far away from his grasp.

It hadn't been long until Balian had taken her from the atrium though and had taken her through the domus to the dining room where she had been allowed to take in everything. Balian hadn't been certain whether or not the domus as a whole had begun to sate the young woman. Yet, the moment he had made mention of a library had changed all of that. She grabbed onto his arm with both hands and shook him like some child. It shocked him to the core.

"I..." Balian trailed. "Yes, there's a library, Branowen." He told her simply and nodded his head to her. He didn't attempt to part his arm from her grasp though. Despite the fact that she tugged and shook him, her excited was welcome and so was that touch. That, and to see her gaze flitting about left him rather amused. Then she rounded upon him once more and her soft fingers were tangled with his own. It was a shocked to him but Balian felt warmed to the core then. Balian even gripped her hand firmly with his own and smiled.

"Of course, Branowen!" He breathed out with his own semblance of excitement.

It wasn't long then until Balian had turned upon his heel and lead her through the hall and through the atrium once more to leave the dining hall behind them. It seemed a lengthy walk through the corridor beyond the kitchens, bedrooms and thensome, until they had wandered onto the other side of the domus. It was where a large portion of the domus had been obviously given over to the care of a solarium with a multitude of large windows.

There was another statue of Minerva here though where she lingered within the center of the room rounded by a desk full of scraps of vellum that were marked and written upon and even a stack of leather tomes lingered. Then there were the various bookshelves that were within and filled with other books; each one indicating an art, play or even knowledge on their gods, culture and thensome. Balian himself, though, could not read. Yet, he did not tell her that as he led her across the marble floor and to the center of the room where she'd be able to peer through each aisle.

"Augustus wanted to take a bit of Tiberium with him," Balian told her.

"Mayhap he'd allow you study here...?" He dared to ask himself.