Melou of Camelot

dragon_twin @ 2008-02-24T23:33:00

2008-02-25T04:33:37Z

It's no surprise to Melou when the door to the little room he and Melehan have been granted in the church flies open and Constantine steps inside. Their Latin is good enough that when the monks started shouting about blasphemy and sacrilege, it wasn't difficult to put two and two together.

They don't reach for their swords; giving up their weapons had been a condition of being granted sanctuary to begin with. They weren't supposed to need them while they were here.

Apparently, they'd made more of an impression on their cousin than they had anticipated. It isn't unusual for war to be waged over a throne, from family or otherwise, but this all just seems a little personal.

It's also a clear indication that despite their failure – and that they will very likely be dead within minutes – they haven't entirely lost. Their honour is intact; Constantine's is not.

Oddly, Melou can almost be at peace with that. Almost.

Constantine doesn't even deign to talk to them, simply orders his men to take Melehan first. It's not a lucky guess, or even flat-out knowledge that they're starting with the elder of the two, but a sign that they don't care which one is eliminated first. Both the Sons of Mordred will die.

They put up a fight - they wouldn't be who they are if they didn't - but there isn't much they can do. They're out numbered and unarmed.

Melou is forced to watch his brother be murdered. When it's his turn, all the fight in him is gone. He might as well be dead already.

It's a blessing when he actually is.

I'm sorry, father.

We're coming.

dragon_twin @ 2007-05-01T09:14:00

2007-05-01T13:26:20Z

It's that time of year again.

Melou is sort of surprised he was able to get through the festivities without getting angry enough to punch someone. He wanted to, of course, but thought he showed remarkable restraint in not following through. Bri helped, too, and he thinks he might even have enjoyed parts of it for once.

Last year, he didn't get a festival. He got to watch his unworthy cousin being given a throne that wasn't his. He got to make sure Mele didn't lose it and do something rash that might have ended up with one or both of them dead. He got to worry about his mother. Not that that was really anything new.

This year, Melou's avoided his brother, for the most part. He doesn't want to talk about it. It's bad enough he has to remember when he goes to check on their mother, for whom this day is worse than most. But he does. It's his job, to make sure she's all right, even though she never is.

Finally, once all obligations have been fulfilled, there's only one thing left to do. Drink. And Melou intends to do so until he can't see straight.

dragon_twin @ 2007-03-03T17:08:00

2007-03-03T22:12:01Z

If you woke up and I was in bed with you, what would be your first thought?

dragon_twin @ 2007-01-27T02:44:00

2007-01-27T02:44:37Z

Melou stomps up the stairs to Angela's room and when he enters, the door slams nicely behind him. He places the fox gently enough in the pile with the other toys he acquired the day before and then slumps in a chair, sulking.

If Angela is around, she's got one broody prince on her hands.

dragon_twin @ 2007-01-21T01:02:00

2007-01-21T01:02:34Z

It's a special day. At least, Melou assumes it's supposed to be though there isn't much in the way of celebration happening. Not that he really minds the lack of attention for once.

On the other hand, it's a day that's not just about him. Which is why he's grabbed two glasses of ale and is currently knocking on his brother's door.

Moral Values survey

2007-01-18T14:58:24Z

What's the worst thing someone could do?
I really don't know.
What's the worst thing someone could do to you?
Kill Mele.
What's the worst thing that could happen to you?
Didn't I just answer that?
What's the worst thing someone could say about a person?
Words don't really mean much, but I guess that they had no honour.
What's the best thing someone could say about a person?
Again, it doesn't mean much. I suppose that they stood for what they believed in.

Are men and women basically different?
Hell yes.
Which is better, to be a woman or to be a man?
A man.
What can men do that women can't do?
Fight.
What can women do that men can't do?
Have babies.
Is it possible to change genders?
.....I really hope not.

How old is old enough to have sex?
Whenever you think you're ready.
Is it wrong to have sex if you're unmarried?
No.
Is it wrong to have sex with someone other than your spouse if you're married?
Not if you're a man.
Is it wrong to have sex with a person of the same gender?
No, though I personally don't understand the appeal.
Is it wrong to have sex with a person of a different race (or a different intelligent non-human species)?
...I don't see why it would be.
Is it wrong to have more than one sexual partner at the same time?
Of course not.
Is it wrong to have sex with someone you don't love?
No. Sex really isn't about love.

What are the responsibilities of a mother toward a child?
Huh. Almost everything, really, especially when they're little.
What are the responsibilities of a father toward a child?
That depends if it's a boy or a girl. In general, though, a father should protect them and make sure they're safe and that the mother's doing a good job.
What are the responsibilities of a child toward a parent?
To be loyal and respectful. To do what their father tells them.
Which should be more important to you, your parent or your child?
That depends on the circumstances. Right now, my mother is. My father always will be.
Which should be more important to you, your parent or your spouse?
I don't think any woman could ever be more important to me than my Mam.
Which should be more important to you, your child or your spouse?
Given that it's legitimate, your child should be.
Is it wrong to have a child if you're unmarried?
Morally, no. But sometimes they can be a real pain in the ass.
Is abortion wrong?
No.
Is contraception wrong?
No and frankly, I wish we had more options.

Is there one true religion?
The Christians certainly think so.
Does a deity or deities exist?
Yes.
How important is it to believe in a deity or deities?
They can get pretty pissed off if you don't. I wouldn't want to risk it.
How important is it to actively practice your religion?
Very. Otherwise, the Christians might start to think they've won.
Does magic exist?
Of course.
Is practicing magic wrong?
If it is, I sure as hell don't want to be the one to tell Grandmother Morgan.

Is killing always wrong?
Hell no.
Is war always wrong?
No.
How old is old enough to fight in a war?
Generally speaking and providing the training has been adequate, 15 can be.
Is rape always wrong?
...no.
Is torture always wrong?
No.
Is theft always wrong?
No.
Is slavery wrong?
...define slavery.
Is lying wrong?
Not all the time.
Is swearing wrong?
No.

dragon_twin @ 2006-12-15T03:51:00

2006-12-15T03:51:40Z

Melou follows Angela up to her room in the bar, kitten still on his shoulder, and then holds the door open for her when they arrive.

"Guess you'll have to get used to this again, huh?"

dragon_twin @ 2006-11-21T20:22:00

2006-11-21T20:22:18Z

By the time light started creeping through his bedroom window, Melou was already cranky. He hadn’t slept and spent the last few hours with a sleeping girl draped over his chest. Normally he wouldn’t have minded that, but if he wasn’t going to sleep, he figured he should at least get out and do something.

“Bri.” He lifted the shoulder directly beneath her. “Move over. Getting up.” His only answer was a sleepy groan and then she snuggled closer. He rolled his eyes. “Come on, move.”

“’s not proper mornin’ yet.” She grumbled in reply.

“Close enough.” He gave her a push. “Go on.”

Briallen made a face and rolled over enough to let him up, stifling a yawn. “Did ye sleep at all?”

“No.” Melou swung his legs over the side of the bed and stretched his arms out in front of him.

“Why not? What’s wrong?”

“I’m fine.”

Sitting up slowly, she pushed her hair out of her face and blinked groggily at him. “No, yer not. Ye didn’ get no sleep and ye’ve been moody for days now. Been a right bear, y’have.”

“I said I’m fine.” Angrily, he grabbed the nearest shirt and started pulling it over his head. “I have to get to training.”

“Won’ matter if ye miss a day. Ye’ve done it afore and ye need some sleep, a’least.” Briallen crawled to his side and rested her chin on his shoulder. “Come back to bed.”

He brushed her away. “You need to get to work.”

“Been good. I can stand th’trouble from missin’ one meal.” Relentlessly, she tugged at his arm. “Ye need to sleep an’ ye need to relax an’ not worry ‘bout anyone or anythin’ other than ye gettin’ properly rested.”

Melou didn’t move, but he didn’t push her away again, either. “And if I don’t?”

“Then yer gonna hurt someone without meanin’ to, or get yerself hurt.” She spoke gently, reaching over to stroke his cheek. “Stand too close to th’edge long enough, yer gonna fall an’ I don’ want that t’happen to ye.”

He said nothing, shoulders sagging, because dammit, she was right. Defeated, he let her pull him back onto the bed and settled in with an arm around her waist and his head lying on her stomach. It was only a few minutes later, with Briallen humming softly and stroking his hair, that he finally fell asleep.

dragon_twin @ 2006-11-12T07:17:00

2006-11-12T07:17:50Z

(Click here to post your own answers for this meme.)

✓ I miss somebody right now.	✓ I don't watch much TV these days.	× I own lots of books.
× I wear glasses or contact lenses.	× I love to play video games.	× I've tried marijuana.
× I've watched porn movies.	× I have been the psycho-ex in a past relationship.	× I believe honesty is usually the best policy.
✓ I curse sometimes.	✓ I have changed a lot mentally over the last year.	✓ I carry my knife/razor everywhere with me.

* * * * *

✓ I have broken someone's bones.	× I have a secret that I am ashamed to reveal.	× I hate the rain.
× I'm paranoid at times.	× I would get plastic surgery if it were 100% safe, free of cost, and scar-free.	× I need/want money right now.
× I love sushi.	× I talk really, really fast.	× I have fresh breath in the morning.
× I have long hair.	× I have lost money in Las Vegas.	✓ I have at least one sibling.
✓ I was born in a country outside of the U.S.	× I have worn fake hair/fingernails/eyelashes in the past.	× I couldn't survive without Caller I.D.
✓ I like the way that I look.	× I have lied to a good friend in the last 6 months.	× I am usually pessimistic.
✓ I have a lot of mood swings.	× I think prostitution should be legalized.	× I slept with a roommate.
✓ I have a hidden talent.	× I'm always hyper no matter how much sugar I have.	× I have a lot of friends.
× I have pecked someone of the same sex.	× I enjoy talking on the phone.	× I practically live in sweatpants or PJ pants.
× I love to shop and/or window shop.	× I'm obsessed with my Xanga or Livejournal.	× I'm completely embarrassed to be seen with my mother.
× I have a mobile phone.	✓ I have passed out drunk in the past 6 months.	✓ I've rejected someone before.
✓ I currently like/love someone.	× I have no idea what I want to do for the rest of my life.	× I want to have children in the future.
× I have changed a diaper before.	× I've called the cops on a friend before.	✓ I'm not allergic to anything.
✓ I have a lot to learn.	× I am shy around the opposite sex.	× I'm online 24/7, even as an away message.
× I have at least 5 away messages saved.	✓ I have tried alcohol or drugs before.	× I have made a move on a friend's significant other or crush in the past.
× I own the "South Park" movie.	× I have avoided assignments at work/school to be on Xanga or Livejournal.	× I enjoy some country music.
✓ I would die for my best friends.	× I'm obsessive, and often a perfectionist.	× I have used my sexuality to advance my career.
× I think Halloween is awesome because you get free candy.	× I have dated a close friend's ex.	× I am happy at this moment.
× I'm obsessed with guys.	× Democrat.	× Republican.
✓ I don't even know what I am.	× I am punk rockish.	× I go for older guys/girls, not younger.
× I study for tests most of the time.	× I tie my shoelaces differently from anyone I've ever met.	× I can work on a car.
× I love my job(s).	✓ I am comfortable with who I am right now.	× I have more than just my ears pierced.
× I walk barefoot wherever I can.	× I have jumped off a bridge.	× I love sea turtles.
× I spend ridiculous amounts of money on makeup.	✓ I plan on achieving a major goal/dream.	× I am proficient on a musical instrument.
× I hate office jobs.	× I went to college out of state.	× I am adopted.
× I am a pyro.	× I have thrown up from crying too much.	✓ I have been intentionally hurt by people that I loved.
× I fall for the worst people.	× I adore bright colours.	× I usually like covers better than originals.
× I hate chain theme restaurants like Applebees and TGIFridays.	× I can pick up things with my toes.	× I can't whistle.
✓ I have ridden/owned a horse.	× I still have every journal I've ever written in.	✓ I talk in my sleep.
× I've often thought that I was born in the wrong century.	✓ I try to forget things by drowning them out with loads of distractions.	× I wear a toe ring.
× I have a tattoo.	✓ I can't stand at LEAST one person that I work with.	× I am a caffeine junkie.
× I am completely tree-huggy spiritual, and I'm not ashamed at all.	✓ If I knew I would get away with it, I would commit at least one murder.	× I will collect anything, and the more nonsensical, the better.
✓ I enjoy a nice glass of wine with dinner.	× I'm an artist.	✓ I am ambidextrous.
× I sleep with so many stuffed animals, I can hardly fit on my bed.	× If it weren't for having to see other people naked, I'd live in a nudist colony.	× I have terrible teeth.
× I hate my toes.	✓ I did this meme even though I wasn't tagged by the person who took it before me.	× I have more friends on the internet than in real life.
× I have lived in either three different states or countries.	× I am extremely flexible.	× I love hugs more than kisses.
× I want to own my own business.	× I smoke.	× I spend way too much time on the computer than on anything else.
✓ Nobody has ever said I'm normal.	× Sad movies, games, and the like can cause a trickle of tears every now and then.	× I am proficient in the use of many types of firearms and combat weapons.
× I like the way women look in stylized men's suits.	✓ I don't like it when people are unpleased or seem unpleased with me.	× I have been described as a dreamer or likely to have my head up in the clouds.
× I have played strip poker with someone else before.	× I have had emotional problems for which I have sought professional help.	✓ I believe in ghosts and the paranormal.
× I can't stand being alone.	× I have at least one obsession at any given time.	× I weigh myself, pee/poo, and then weigh myself again.
× I consistently spend way too much money on obsessions-of-the-moment.	✓ I'm a judgmental asshole.	× I'm a HUGE drama-queen.
× I have travelled on more than one continent.	× I sometimes wish my father would just disappear. (Pretty much the opposite)	× I need people to tell me I'm good at something in order to feel that I am.
× I am a Libertarian.	✓ I can speak more than one language.	✓ I can fall asleep even if the whole room is as noisy as it can be.
× I would rather read than watch TV.	× I like reading fact more than fiction.	× I have pulled an all-nighter on an assignment I was given a month to do.
✓ I have no piercings.	× I have spent the night in a train station or other public place.	× I have been so upset over my physical gender that I cried.
× I once spent Christmas completely alone because there was a miscommunication on which parent was supposed to have me that night.	✓ There have been times when I have wondered "Why was I born?" and may/may not have cried over it.	✓ I like most animals better than most people.
× I own a collection of retro games consoles.	× The thought of physical exercise makes me shiver.	× I have hit someone with a dead fish.
× I am compulsively honest.	× I was born with a congenital birth defect that has never been repaired.	× I have danced topless in front of dozens of complete strangers.
× I have gone from wishing I was a girl to revelling in being a boy to feeling like a girl again in the span of five minutes, and not cared a whit for my actual sex.	× I am unashamedly bisexual, and have different motivations for my desires for different genders.	× I sometimes won't sleep a whole night or eat a whole day because I forget to.
× I find it impossible to get to sleep without some kind of music on.	× I dislike milk.	× I obsessively wash my hands.
✓ I always carry something significant around with me.	× Sometimes I'd rather wear a wig in day-to-day life than use my own hair.	× I've pushed myself to become more self-aware and thereby more aware of others.
× Even though I live on my own I still cry sometimes because I miss my mother.	× I hand wrote all the HTML tags in this document.	✓ I've liked something which a majority of people claimed was either bad or weird.
× I have been clinically dead for a brief period of time.	✓ Instead of feeling sympathy/empathy with people and their problems, I simply become annoyed.	× I participate/have participated in auto drag races and won.
✓ I do not 'get' most comedy acts.	✓ I don't think strippers are money-greedy or slutty for dancing.	✓ I don't like to chew gum.
× I am obsessed with history/historical things and can't wait for someone to build a time machine so I can be the first to use it.	× I can never remember for the life of me where I parked the car.	× I had the TEEN ANGST thing going for at least 2-3 years.
× I wish people would be more empathic and honest with each other.	× I play Dungeons and Dragons weekly.	× I love to sing.
✓ I want to live in my mother's basement when I grow up.	× I have a custom-built computer.	× I want to create a certain someone's babies, even though there's a 0% possiblity of ever achieving it.
× I would be in a relationship with one of my pets if they were human.	✓ I've gone skinny-dipping.	× I've performed in three plays.
× I enjoy burritos.	× I'm Irish and loving it. (I'd rather be dead)	✓ I have a thing for redheads.
✓ I am a twin!	× Most of the times, I'd rather do something intellectual instead of doing something generically 'fun'.	× Once I set out to finish something, I always stay at it until it is completed before I move on to something else.
× I wish there were a way to erase past mistakes.	× I sleep more than 12 hours a day.	✓ I wish I could be prouder of what I've accomplished, but it's never enough.
× I need more time to myself.	× I wish I was more open-minded.	× I hope that I go really prematurely grey.
× I download songs from the internet.	× I've just reenacted chapter 58 of Death Note with my best friend.	× I say random things to freak people out.
× I'm still a little mad about the ending of Death Note.	× I love playing Truth or Dare.	× I love listening to slow music, but I hate singing to it.
× Music helps me remember that I am not alone.	✓ Playing my favorite sport makes me temporarily forget my problems.	× I think this survey is particularly long.
× I prefer my LJ friends to my real-life ones.	× I can only hate someone that I love.	× I've ordered an extra two shots of espresso to an Americano at Starbucks.

dragon_twin @ 2006-11-12T01:25:00

2006-11-12T01:25:35Z

Melou has put the maps away for today, happy enough with what work he did get done on them yesterday before Melehan ruined his mood. But he's not thinking about that right now. He has a date of sorts.

It's getting colder, even at Milliways, so there aren't any jean shorts today, although the t-shirt probably doesn't look so good with his usual trousers. Thankfully, he couldn't care less what his clothes look like.

Melou paces just outside the lake door, waiting for Angela. Girls always take forever.

dragon_twin @ 2006-11-05T20:31:00

2006-11-05T20:31:24Z

He'd asked her to come see him when she was done cleaning up after dinner. That was over an hour ago and since then, Melou had been waiting in his room patiently. Or, at least as patiently as he could be while puttering around nervously.

Finally the door opened and she slipped inside. He stopped his pacing and smiled at her. "Hey."

dragon_twin @ 2006-10-28T02:20:00

2006-10-28T02:26:59Z

When Melou brings Angela back into the castle it's around about when dinner would normally be served. However, it's a festival day, so the household has already eaten, in order to be able to head outside for the evening's games.

He pulls her into his room, obviously excited, and starts rummaging through a trunk.

"Get you your mask in just a minute."

dragon_twin @ 2006-10-04T11:32:00

2006-10-04T16:02:11Z

When Melou is cranky, like he has been for the past few days, he tends to avoid Briallen. She, more than anyone else including Mele, knows how to push his buttons and seems to do it on purpose more often than not.

Today, he's calmed down a bit. His last talk with Angela helped, even though they're still a little awkward with each other, as has sleeping in his own bed again. He also has something specific to do.

Bag over his shoulder, he knocked on the cottage door and entered, without waiting for an answer. As usual.

dragon_twin @ 2006-10-02T18:15:00

2006-10-02T23:04:23Z

Melou spent his first full day home in relative peace, mostly alone in his room with a short trip down to the river for a swim. Dinner was, of course, busier than usual. Everyone wanted to hear about his trip and he was more than happy to oblige for a few hours.

Finally, he managed to excuse himself. He had something to do and didn't want to put it off any longer. He made a brief stop at his room and then headed to another large door, entering only after receiving a "come in" in response to his knock.

"Mam?"

dragon_twin @ 2006-09-28T12:52:00

2006-09-28T16:58:04Z

Finally finally Melou is home. He's managed to get Aeron safely in his stall and is now hefting his bags back to his room. His plans for this evening include sleeping.

And that's about it.

Anyone who bothers him on his way will likely get told that he's Melehan and he doesn't know where his brother is. Unless they're Melehan.

Or their mother.

Or Briallen.

And if he runs into any of them, well, he might just be sociable.

100 Things meme

2006-09-27T16:30:33Z

1. His full name is Melou Cunedda Gwthyr ap Medraut.

2. His father named him.

3. His Latin name is Melius.

4. He hates it and refuses to acknowledge it, except for the monks who won't call him anything else.

5. He never minded having to move to Wales.

6. He doesn't consider Camelot to be home any more.

7. He's a Mama's boy.

8. He will never be jealous of Melehan for being the heir.

9. He will always be jealous of Melehan for getting their father's sword.

10. And for Sulwyn.

11. If he could, he'd marry Briallen, mostly just to get that over with.

12. Or Angela.

13. Since he can't marry either, he has no interest in getting married at all.

14. He doesn't hate or resent Arthur.

15. Or Guinevere.

16. He does resent his father, on occasion, for going to Camlann knowing he'd be killed.

17. He still idolizes him, though.

18. In his eyes, Milliways Mordred will never measure up.

19. He wishes he could make his mother happy.

20. The sword she gave him for his 16th birthday is his most treasured possession.

21. The first man he and Melehan killed was Pasgen, an older, noble boy who sided with their Uncle and used to make fun of them during drills.

22. They did it mostly just to see if they could.

23. He enjoyed it.

24. He's lost count how many men he's killed since then.

25. However many it actually is, he doesn't think it's enough to be overly impressive.

26. He's an extremely good hand-to-hand fighter.

27. He's stronger than he looks.

28. He is ambidextrous.

29. He's not as good a shot with a bow and arrow as his brother.

30. He really wants to learn more how to use a gun.

31. He would only die for his mother and Melehan.

32. He is eight and a half minutes younger.

33. He never wanted any other siblings.

34. He spoke first.

35. His first word was "ail" (again).

36. He walked second.

37. He and Melehan made up their own language when they were younger.

38. They still use it, especially when they don't want anyone else to know what they're talking about.

39. He has a suspicion his mother can understand it.

40. He speaks Latin and Welsh fluently.

41. He can understand and get by in several other dialects, including Orcadian and Pictish.

42. He is of Welsh, Pictish, and Cornish descent.

43. Officially, he is Prince of Gwynedd and Cornwall, and Lord of Orkney and Camelot.

44. To his knowledge, he and his brother are the only direct descendants of Arthur in existence.

45. He knows that might not be accurate.

46. He's never wanted to be High King.

47. He wonders what his life would have been like had his father survived and taken the throne.

48. Teasing Melehan is his favourite hobby.

49. He hates being teased in return.

50. He's far more sensitive than he lets on.

51. He thinks being a father is the weirdest thing ever.

52. He was honestly angry at Briallen for having the baby.

53. He didn't speak to her for over a year because of it.

54. He really, really missed her.

55. He loves Briallen, Rhoslyn and Angela in his own way.

56. He'll never admit to being in love with anyone.

57. Sulwyn will always be on a higher pedestal, except for his mother.

58. He's afraid of letting Rhoslyn get attached in case something happens to him in the near future.

59. He wishes she didn't have his father's eyes.

60. If he survives the rebellion, he'd like to get to know her better.

61. His favourite colour is dark green.

62. His first kiss was at age 11 with a merchant's daughter while he was still living in Camelot.

63. She was older.

64. Briallen and Angela are the only girls he considers "his".

65. Briallen was the first girl he slept with.

66. He's lost count of how many girls he's been with since.

67. It's probably more than the number of men he's killed.

68. He still sleeps around, though access to Angela at Milliways has lessened this. Somewhat.

69. He's a dog person.

70. His horse's name is Aeron, named after the Welsh god of battle and slaughter.

71. He didn't name him.

72. He didn't name Rhoslyn, either, and didn't like the name in the beginning, though it's grown on him.

73. He'd have named her after his mother, had he decided it was up to him.

74. He prefers redheads.

75. He'd respect his uncle more if he wasn't trying to use them for his own selfish gain.

76. He thinks Christianity is silly.

77. He loves the ocean.

78. Had he not been born into royalty, he would have been a sailor.

79. Sometimes, he wishes he hadn't been born into royalty.

80. He's terribly proud of his family and legacy, still.

81. He doesn't think he could survive without Melehan.

82. He'll never get over his father's death.

83. He takes offense to being thought of as or called stupid.

84. He hates his dream-visions.

85. He'd never give them up if he could, as they're something he got from his father.

86. He doesn't understand why his father was "the bad guy".

87. He wishes he'd been able to know Morgan.

88. He likes his cousin Rhun and respects that he's loyal to his father.

89. He thinks his cousin Eurgain is a bitch and can't wait until she gets married and moves away.

90. He also thinks he has far too many relatives to keep track of, and therefore, usually doesn't.

91. He is 5'11", or thereabouts.

92. He's the tiniest bit shorter than Melehan.

93. Angela is the tallest girl he knows.

94. He hasn't so far, but sees no problem with hitting a woman who steps out of line.

95. He came very close with Briallen when he found out she was pregnant.

96. It doesn't bother him that a lot of people dislike him.

97. He really does try to be good for his mother.

98. He will only admit defeat if there truly are no other viable options.

99. To him, violence is not only usually the answer, it's often the only one.

100. His most important goal is making Melehan King.

dragon_twin @ 2006-09-23T16:02:00

2006-09-23T20:06:15Z

After spending a mere two days in the court of Rheged, Melou was ready to leave. King Meirchion was the oldest man he'd ever met and for all intents and purposes, his sons Cynfarch and Elidyr were in charge. It was a shame they didn't get along.

Two days, and all he'd heard was infighting and arguing, not only between the King's sons, but between their sons - of which there were many, and apparently included Melou's uncle Llew. The last thing any of them wanted was to listen to what they considered the self-made problems of a boy from a rival kingdom.

His aunt Tegeirian had been scarce and seemed rather indifferent to his presence when she was around, although she seemed genuinely pleased with the letter and gifts Rhedyn had sent with him from Galwyddel. It mattered little to Melou. He'd tell his mother her sister was a kind and happy woman regardless.

Dinners were loud and obnoxious and this evening's had been no different. Few people paid him any attention and once the main meal had been cleared away, Melou settled off to the side by himself, perfectly content to be forgotten about. A few moments later, however, he found he wasn't quite alone.

"We are well met, cousin?" A girl stood over him, two or three years younger than he was and far too tall for her age. That, combined with her long, dark hair, was a dead giveaway.

"Tegeirian's daughter?" He guessed.

She straightened her shoulders and glared down. "I am Princess Meddyf, yes."

Melou sipped his ale and tried not to laugh. He had the feeling she was worse than Eurgain. "Then, yeah, sure. We're well met. You wanna sit or something?"

"No, thank you. I simply wanted to introduce myself before you left." Her Latin was impeccable and her smile too smug for Melou's liking.

"What makes you think I won't be here for a while longer?" He asked, irritated.

"You're not welcome here." Meddyf explained, her tone more than a little condescending. "It would be for the best if you left as soon as possible."

"Thanks for the tip, but I'd figured that out already." Melou stood, more than a little annoyed that he didn't tower over her like he was used to. "And I changed my mind. Stable hands have been better met than you."

He grabbed his drink and brushed past her, heading for the room he'd been given. Tomorrow, he decided, he was going home.

dragon_twin @ 2006-09-14T15:11:00

2006-09-14T19:12:18Z

The stables for the Galwyddel court were small and cramped and frankly, Melou didn't like them much. Of course, he didn't have a choice as to where he housed his horse, especially today when it was raining and Aeron desperately needed a brushing out before they started back home tomorrow.

He hadn't been out there for ten minutes when he realized he was being watched. He had been almost the entire week he'd been here. "You gonna come out, finally, or hide forever?" He asked casually and not looking away from his work, but loud enough to be heard throughout the building.

A boy, wet from sneaking about in the rain, stepped into the dim light and leaned against the stall of another horse. "Did ye really live at Camelot?"

Melou smiled, recognizing the boy as Senyllt, the king's grandson. "Yeah, 'til I was about your age. Then we moved up to Gwynedd. Your Da know you're following me?"

Taking a few steps closer, the boy just shrugged. "Prob'ly. What was it like?"

"Big. Bright. Noisy. Nothing at all like here." He glances over, eyebrow raised. "Why, you thinking of running away?"

"Nah. Just curious." Senyllt grinned briefly. "Ye need help? I can fold 'is blanket for ye."

"Sure, if you want." He barely supressed a chuckle as the other boy brightened and eagerly took the blanket from him.

"Yer real tall." The boy observed.

Melou had to laugh at that. "Taller than most, yeah. Not as tall as my Uncle, though."

"Maelgwn? Northern Picts're sendin' a princess down to 'im. Want 'im to father an heir."

...that was news to Melou. He tried not to look as shocked as he felt. "Where'd you hear that?"

Senyllt shrugged, still folding. "Nobles were talkin'. S'posed to be me Da, but I guess they figger Maelgwn's a better choice."

"Huh." At least he knew now why Dingat and Tudwal were willing to side with him and Melehan, instead of his uncle. "Must have their reasons."

"Guess so." The younger prince agreed. "Ye ever actually get t'talk to Arthur?"

After a brief hesitation, Melou answered, keeping his voice even and hopefully unbiased. The last thing he wanted was to feed rumours. "Of course. Once in a while. He was usually real busy, but he'd greet us at dinner, sometimes ask about what we were learning and stuff."

"Did ye like 'im?" Senyllt pressed.

Now it was Melou's turn to shrug. "Didn't know him that well."

Either that satisfied the boy, or he realized he wasn't going to get much information, as he fell silent for a few moments before starting in on a new topic. "They want ye t'marry me aunt, ye know."

To his credit, Melou only snorted quietly, and didn't drop the brush. "They've suggested as much."

"Ye goin' to?"

"No." He answered firmly. "Not planning on getting married any time soon."

Senyllt nodded. "What 'bout yer brother?"

"Well, that'd be up to him, wouldn't it?" Melou grinned suddenly. "I"ll be sure to let him know when I get home, though."

The boy smiled back, seemingly understanding his intention, and then handed back the neatly folded blanket. "Can I do anythin' else?"

"Nah, I think I can handle the rest. But thanks."

"A'right." He hesitated, as if uncertain whether to stay or go, and then asked, "Can I see yer scar?"

"From the arrows?" Melou guessed and then leaned down, pulling the collar of his shirt over to reveal the mark on his shoulder. "It's healed up pretty good." Apparently, scars didn't just impress girls, but boys who hadn't had to face battle yet.

Senyllt gave it a good look, eyes wide, and then nodded. "Ye were lucky."

"Yeah, I was."

A brief pause followed before the boy asked another hopeful question. "Need help loadin' up tomorrow 'fore ye go?"

"If you want." Melou gave him a quick smile. "Be just after breakfast so I can get a full day's riding in."

"I'll be here." He promised eagerly, then started for the door and the rain. "See ye at dinner then."

Melou nodded. "See you there." Once the young prince was well out of sight, he let himself have a good laugh and wondered if he had been so easily impressed at that age.

Arrival in Galwyddel

2006-09-07T17:39:42Z

The journey to Galwyddel had been long, dull and Melou was nothing short of exhausted. He hadn't lingered long in Rheged. Better to approach them on his way back, than take the chance of them not agreeing and having to travel through their land afterward.

Galwyddel, though much the same size as Gwynedd, seemed... tiny. The court was certainly smaller and less organized, and the main keep was nothing to look at. Still, he had to give the isolated Picts credit for managing to maintain themselves on their own.

Melou was ushered into the main building and was shortly after greeted by his Aunt Rhedyn. Bombarded might be a better word, as she was perhaps the most cheerful relative he had ever met and, like all of Cadwallon's daughters, looked very much like her other sisters. Heavily pregnant, she took his arm and led him through hallways to the room that had since been prepared for him. And she never stopped talking.

He was one of Cywyllog's boys, wasn't he? So handsome and all grown up! She had been in Gwynedd still when they first came to visit when he was just a baby. Did he remember? Of course he didn't. It was so good of him to visit, all this way and why hadn't his mother come with him? Or Ffion? It had been years since she'd seen either of her sisters and she missed them so. Would he be here for very long? She would love to have someone take him to Ynys Manaw, so much like Aberffraw it was. Had he meet King Tudwal before, or her husband Cadwr, the king's cousin? They would be sure to welcome him with open arms. They always did with family and did he know of the king's youngest daughter, Eheubryd? A lovely girl and almost 15, a perfectly acceptable marrying age.

...Melou couldn't keep up. He answered as politely as possible, when he could even get a word in edgewise, and was more than happy to ignore her few last comments when they finally arrived and he was able to excuse himself for rest.

Dinner was much like at home, though on a smaller scale, and he spent most of the time watching the king and his son, Dingat, trying to figure out the best way to broach the subject he had come all this way to talk to them about. Rhedyn tried her best to include him in conversation, but ended up doing most of the talking herself. Melou couldn't help but like her regardless, and was pleased he would be able to report to his mother that her second youngest sister was more than happy.

Finally, the dishes were cleared away and the men settled in for more important discussions. Tudwal brought up the subject of the fight against Constantine first and while they ended the conversation without any decisions having been finalized, both he and Dingat seemed very receptive to the idea of having a Pendragon back on the high throne.

That was all Melou had wanted, for a first meeting. He would be here for a week or two more and felt confident he would leave with their support secured. Not a large army, but it was better than what they currently had and once one kingdom was on board, it would be easier to convince others to join.

Once again drained from the day, Melou retired to his room and slept soundly for the first time in weeks. Rheged could be worried about later.

dragon_twin @ 2006-07-26T14:05:00

2006-07-26T18:25:55Z

Melou is happy enough when he returns home. He was able to see Angela, and will likely be able to keep seeing her without much difficulty, so that's one worry taken care of. As for his other encounters, well, he doesn't much care about them to be concerned.

He spots a familiar, small figure as he heads down a corridor on his way to his room, and catches up easily, a slight smile on his face.

"She's gone now, you know. You can stop being such a complete bitch about it."

dragon_twin @ 2006-07-19T20:03:00

2006-07-20T00:09:51Z

Training was the same as usual this morning. Melou worked on strengthening and range of mobility for his right shoulder and then took the final skirmish using his left. He won, of course, but it was closer than he would have liked.

Still, it didn't matter much in the grand scheme of things, so he wiped his brow and then scanned the top of the hill, remembering that Angie was out to watch him today.

He grins when he spots her and then jogs up to where she's been sitting.

dragon_twin @ 2006-07-17T20:29:00

2006-07-18T00:38:33Z

Dinner is always a noisy affair at castle Din-Gonwy. Angela found that out last night at her first one ever, when she was the centre of attention for all of five minutes until the main crowd accepted Melou's story of where she came from and who she was, and then got distracted by something else.

Tonight's meal isn't shaping up to be much different, except there's less whispering and more friendly (or indifferent) smiles given Angie's way.

They're seated not quite in the middle of the table, closer to the head. Melou passes her a glass of wine and smiles.

dragon_twin @ 2006-07-10T21:32:00

2006-07-11T01:39:18Z

The door opens and once it closes, Angela and Melou are transferred from the brightness of the bar, to the almost complete darkness of a hallway in castle Din-Gonwy.

Clutching her hand tightly, Melou glances around at first and then leads them closer to one of the few torches lighting the way.

"You ok?" He whispers. Time to see if that ring works.

dragon_twin @ 2006-06-29T10:33:00

2006-06-29T14:44:05Z

Melou hasn't slept well the past few nights. It's nothing to do with his dreams, for once, and nothing to do with not sleeping in his own bed. He's used to that by now.

No, it's the baby.

Bri explained, apologetically, that she wasn't normally this noisy, she just wasn't used to strangers in the house. He isn't a stranger, he'd answered, but supposed it made sense. Sort of.

So this afternoon, he makes his way to the little cottage again, if only to tell Bri he'll be in his own room tonight. He doesn't knock this time.

dragon_twin @ 2006-06-26T09:39:00

2006-06-26T14:37:27Z

The remainder of the journey to Wales was uneventful. Melou, for one, was thankful for that. He'd had enough excitement - if you could call it that - for a while and all he wanted was to get back home and his usual routine, at least for a few weeks.

Word of the attack had made its way back to the little court in Din-Gonwy, so everyone was abuzz when they returned. For once, Melou didn't want the attention. He was tired and used his injury as an excuse to simply go to his room and sleep until dinner, and then to return to it immediately after. Something, though, kept bothering him, nagging away at the back of his brain. It had started doing the same before he left Milliways, but was stronger now that he was home.

Finally, he'd had enough. A few hours after dinner, he put his boots back on and made his way through darkened and still noisy corridors of the castle, and then outside to a small group of servant's cottages. Stopping at the side door of one of the smaller ones, he knocked softly. And waited.