Closed Thread [Closed] To Be Or Not To Be (19FG20)

And fearless minds climb soonest unto crowns.

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Uther was exploring. He and his valet had only recently moved to Whitehart and he was finally able to enjoy the freedoms the village provided. He was strolling confidently across the top of the fences when a black form left to the pickets about half of the lot's distance ahead of him.

"Who goes there!" Uther filled his voice with confidence and command, as his father had taught him. It was important to always be clear and firm, so that one's authority was never in doubt.

Uther stood firmly on the fence, the chill breeze ruffling his spotted coat. He kept his green eyes glued to the black form ahead of him. Hopefully this cat was friendly and not some cowardly villain who would demand a fight. He didn't want a fight today. He wanted to explore.

Let me be your labor of love.

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The black she-cat kept her eyes and ears peeled. Certainly they had arrived in Whitehart; the home of her royal sire, and his sire before him. There was artisocracy here. Pedigree. History. Every story, every word of her dame so far gave her and her brother the confidence to return. They hadn't a home behind them. It was only the future, and her future was with Whitehart. With Camelot.

With a calm flick of her ear, her elegant visage turned to acknowledge the spotted cat who had greeted her. Less than fondly, she noticed with an irritated flick of her tail behind the pickets, but nevertheless this was a civilian of Whitehart, so surely, if she used her full title, hopefully he'd be able to point her in the right direction.

Stretching her front paws forward, she arched herself forward as she stood upon the fence, and addressed the tomcat before her with a lordly glower of her golden gaze. "I am Princess Ahryndae, first-born daughter of Princess Aoife and Prince Cearnaigh, who was begot by Queen Valiant and King Pendragon of Camelot!" And with a pause so that he may bask in such knowledge, she continued. "And who might you be, Sir?" Poised and polite as her dame expected her to be.

She too, could be dramatic.

And fearless minds climb soonest unto crowns.

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Green eyes didn't flicker as he watched her lay out her lineage before him. If she thought being child of the Black Prince Cearnaigh was enough to put him in his place she had another thing coming. He couldn't believe that one of the first cats he met would be one of his royal cousins. Uther hoped that they would be able to make an alliance, maybe be friends. It wouldn't due for the royal family to start with a falling out.

"Greetings Princess Ahryndae. I am his royal highness Prince Uther of Camelot, second of his name. Son of Crown Prince Arthur I who was Son in turn to King Pendragon I, Scions of the royal blood of the Cats of Camelot, so honored by King Uther I in the days of yore" Uther had been drilled to be able to deliver his styling perfectly, and he managed it here with this stranger. He was thankful for his father's random demands that he pretend to introduce himself to nothing. His royal styling was long and intricate.

In a show of trust he settled himself onto his haunches. He wanted to befriend this stranger who could trace themselves back to Camelot's King. His tail came to rest wrapped around his paws, his spine was straight and his ears perfectly pointed. He knew how to sit with royal poise and grace.

Let me be your labor of love.

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To say that the first cat she'd come to meet was none other than her royal cousin...! She wouldn't have believed her luck. Finally, the trials and clues that led her and her brother to Whitehart was a success. Others of their family still resided here - and she could only hope that she might know where her sire may be, if he was even here to begin with.

"Well met, Prince Uther." Watching from her elevated perch, her golden eyes considered him in a new light. The tom took a more relaxed stance, a good measure to smooth over their shakey introduction. But she'd have been wary too, and she still was. Measuring the actions of such an astute relative. It would take caution to warrant being in good graces.

"Myself and my brother have traveled a long way from a kingdom far in hopes to see if the Cats of Camelot yet thrive. Do you have knowledge of our noble sire, Prince Cearnaigh? Is he here, in Camelot?" Her posture and regal holding spoke of her royal pedigree, as she and her brother were, indeed, the spitting image of the long lost prince.

And fearless minds climb soonest unto crowns.

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Sitting as he was, perched amongst the pickets at the top of the fence, Uther watched with care. His green eyes fixed on the black she-cat before him. "I should like to make the acquaintance of your brother." Uther agreed when Ahryndae mentioned that she did not travel alone. Then she mentioned a kingdom far away... Uther couldn't help but wonder if it was the same sort of 'court in exile' situation that his father had lived in and he himself had been born to.

"It would please me greatly to hear of this home you've left behind to come here. I wish to know of any kingdom abroad, perhaps make introductions to the sovereign there." Uther knew the importance of politics, of making sure one knew the neighbors and was familiar with all those around them. It counted both on the interpersonal level and on the grand level of countries and alliances. If he was to re-establish Camelot in Whitehart it would start with the slow process of re-securing the borders of the country.

"As for the Black Prince Cearnaigh, I know him only by reputation and my Royal Father's stories. I am grieved that I cannot guide you to him." Uther genuinely wished to make the acquaintance of the Black Prince. So many stories of his father's featured the gregarious tom cat's antics. And if he had known the Princess's father he might well have been able to smooth over the tension that still crackled in the air between them. It would take time to become true friends, but clearly the fates were on his side.

Let me be your labor of love.

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Spoken so earnestly, Ahryndae had little reason not to believe her royal cousin. He seemed to speak genuinely, if a bit curtly, as courtly cats may do. They hadn't achieved a friendly sort of relationship yet, but it was promising that he was willing to relay so much information to aide in their search.

A look a sorrow washed over her, practiced on her dark face that flashed briefly in her eyes. "Myself and my brother are the last royal lineage of our old home, I'm afraid, with the passing of our noble mother." Perhaps if Uther had seen or hear word of their sire, they could converge on what should be accomplished next. Would he wish to return to the village where he met Aoife and fathered her kits, or would he wish to start anew here in Whitehart.

Answers, that would, frustratingly still allude her. With a heavy sigh, she listened as the tom confirmed her deepest concern. Cearnaight was not among them - then where would he be? They had come so far, but there yet was hope to be had in finding the remnants of their extended, royal family.

"We will not surrender hope that he may, one day, be found."

She was about to gracefully inquire about where they might rest for the night, perhaps take Uther as gracious host and rest at his lavish apartment - but then Aodhan's scent came to her on the wind, and soon a regal form spirited by a spitting countenance leapt onto the post in front of her. Eyes narrowing a fraction of an inch, she peered out from behind him, the length of her black tail resting lightly on his shoulder.

"Peace, brother." She began, her words a velvety purr, ever as calm as she kept watch over what the spotted tom across the way would do at his sudden intervention. "He is no low born knave. You are addressing our stately cousin, Prince Uther, begot by Arthur - our sire's oldest brother. We have found family at last."

And fearless minds climb soonest unto crowns.

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So this is the brother, Uther thought, seeing the tom that looked so much like Ahryndae it was uncanny. Though Uther was unimpressed by the show of bravado and fangs before him. His own confidence, this was his own homeland while they were outsiders, helped him do little more than twitch and ear at the show. He would not rise to this one's bait.

"I will do what is in my power, Princess, to aid in the location of the Black Prince. Camelot needs be drawn back together after all this time. Two generations lost and little is left to show for it." Uther spoke gently, choosing to ignore the brother who had not yet been introduced. Unlike some, he knew his manners and would deport himself properly. Which included waiting to address this aggressive tom until he had either given proper introduction of himself or his sister made introductions.

"I do know where Prince Cearnaigh would return if he came back to Whitehart. I dwell at court, the same one kept by our Royal Grandfather before he was lost to us like so many of Camelot's own."

Let me be your labor of love.

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Ahryndae was grieved at the current loss of her sire, but she also saw an opportunity. A future where their bloodline could meet their sire's grand inheritance. They had left everything behind, and Ahryndae would be sure to keep Uther to his word.

"Indeed, Prince Uther. While Camelot may seem to be in a fractured state anything is possible with a reunion of our noble bloodline to shoulder the responsibility of governing. It is my hope that we can make the Great Kingdom of Camelot prosper again."

When her golden eyes moved carefully between Aodhan and Uther, the glittering orbs that cast her eyes in light briefly caught Aodhan's own. Even at a glance, the weight of her heady stare was full of implication. Whatever he did, he mustn't ruin this for her. For them. With a regal incline back towards their somewhat pompus host, the night black princess graciously introduced her protective twin.

"This is my brother, Prince Aodhan, second-born son of Princess Aoife and Prince Cearnaigh, who was begot by Queen Valiant and King Pendragon I of Camelot."

She had a hope, after introductions were made, they could proceed to more productive measures. Like being escorted to court. Who knew what fragments of the Kingdom remained... At the sound of her brother's words softened with devotion, Ahryndae shifted her attention, albeit briefly.

"I have been vigilant, brother. And while I can hold my own, I have little to fear knowing you are near to intervene on my behalf, should any unfriendly sort be near."

While she was temporarily vexed at her brother's hostilities, she knew her concealed rage wouldn't last. Her tail, which had once brushed along his shoulder, dropped to curl regally around her paws. Flanked by her shadow, Ahryndae was warmed by her brother's presence, and gave him a soft smile of reassurance. She had little doubt he would show the affection behind his words in a physical display if not for the presence of Uther.

"Forgive my brother." The night black princess' mew held a soft note, gentle and considering. "As I previously mentioned, we have traveled far and not all company we've come across has been friendly. "

And fearless minds climb soonest unto crowns.

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Ah, there it was. The daughter of the Black Prince finally made proper introduction of the overly defensive brother. But propriety being handled meant that things could proceed much smoother.

"Yes, of course. You are quiet forgiven, Prince Aodhan. I am his royal highness Prince Uther of Camelot, second of his name. Son of Crown Prince Arthur I who was Son in turn to King Pendragon I, Scions of the royal blood of the Cats of Camelot, so honored by King Uther I in the days of yore." Uther repeated the complete list of titles and bloodline, as the other Prince has missed the chance to hear it. Anyone's complete styling was important to knowing vital information about them. Like the fact that Prince Aodhan was the lowest ranked amongst them as second born of a fifth born. Not even heir to the Black Prince. No wonder he was so serious about his duty to his sister, who was Prince Cearnaigh's heir.

"It is a shame, how wild the Kingdom has become. But at least I have returned, and given time it will be one of my priorities to restore matters. I have only just made the return myself, accompanied by my valet. But, I should not sit and talk your ears off. If you should wish it, I invite you to court where you can take a moment to rest and refresh yourselves." Uther felt it only right, given that the pair had clear been traveling far. With rest and friendliness his cousins could settle themselves and then they could all have a real conversation. He still wanted to know more about their former home and what had come to pass to destroy it.

He rose to his paws, tail raising proudly behind him like a banner. He suspected he would be taken up on his offer.

Let me be your labor of love.

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As Uther went on the trail of his lengthy introduction, Ahryndae was careful to assume the aspect of an attentive listener, even if her mind was racing with the newfound possibilities of the discovery of her royal cousin. Apparently this cousin was son and heir to the crown prince Arthur, which meant that in all likeliness, Uther would find that enough proof to rule, yet she was nothing but tenacious, and she knew she and her brother would find their foothold and advance in this kingdom in kind even if she had to claw her way up.

"That is most kind of you, Cousin. We shall take you up on that offer." inclining his noble chin, the Black Princess rose lightly to her feet, dainty and purposeful as she stood shoulder to shoulder with her brother, both inky black shadows in the quickly approaching night.

"Come, Aodhan - let us be off to court." Her velveteen voice crooned once Uther began padding away in the direction of Camelot. And then they could decide what to accomplish here.

As night cometh, night would reign.

And fearless minds climb soonest unto crowns.

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Uther led the way down the road, sticking mainly to the fence-tops that provided the best view of the surrounding territory. It did not take long for the way to be made to the domicile that lay at the center of Camelot, that played host to both the lovely summer court and the practical winter one. He was quiet during the trip, knowing his cousins would be tired after their travels.

The trio was able to arrive quickly, as Uther's explorations had only taken him a few long blocks shy of the court before he was gifted with the arrival of his cousins. "May I present, the Royal Court of the Cats of Camelot." Uther's tail curled with his pride at the royal space, The small stream of water that fell on rocks and formed a large rock-lined pool in which swamp a school of massive koi fish. The seat of power lay vacant, but well kept near where the water emerged from amongst the rocks at the head of the stream. The golden glow of the setting sun bathed everything in warm light.

"The Summer Court is comfortable this time of year. If you're hungry we should retire to the Winter Court for the night. The Valet will have laid a respectable spread. I apologize that I am somewhat ill prepared for guests."

Let me be your labor of love.

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Every pawstep was purposeful, taking her regal exit from the common pickets, both giving Uther a lead to guide them to their court and keeping one paw step in front of her brother. Quiet though he was, she understood that he knew the importance of his silence. Allowing her to carry the delicacies of their engagement as they traveled the the noble court of their inheritance.

Once they stepped onto the lot, her electric golden gaze surveyed the court with an appreciative eye. Surely this was an impressive abode, and she admired the natural beauty of it all all while surrounded by the dens of Two-Legs. This valet, she hoped, fed well. "I believe we would be well with some refreshment. Worry yourself not, Cousin, it would be foolish to assume you have been expecting us - and indeed, the ties of our blood have brought us together. We appreciate your hospitality."

Pretty words were proper and given with some warmth as she gave her spotted silvery cousin a smile. To retire to the Winter Court, then for a much deserved meal. Even a small amount and some rest would allow them to return the favor with a morning hunt.

And fearless minds climb soonest unto crowns.

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"This way, then, dear cousins." Uther turned his paws towards the cat flap that led into the spacious, but utilitarian room that also housed the valets' carriage. Inside was a bowl of plain, dry cat food. Not ideal to be serving his royal cousins, but it did in a pinch. Uther settled himself comfortably on the shelving the bowl sat. "Please, help yourselves to whatever you wish." His pose was carefully upright and proper, leaving enough space for the pair to have plenty of room to do as they wished where the food was concerned. It wasn't the rich results of a day's hunting, but as Ahryndae had said, he could have had no idea they would run across each other this day.

"It is a pleasure to be able to play host to family after so long parted from any of my blood. I should love to hear tell of the adventures that brought the two of you to my humble doorstep."

Let me be your labor of love.

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Ahryndae's golden eyes were piercing in the encroaching darkness as they peered over her shoulder towards Aodhan, trying to judge his comfort level. He wasn't keen on Uther, that much was certain, but she hoped the distrust would blow over with their retirement to the winter court. Gracefully, her black spotted form followed like Uther's shadow, dipping through the cat flap and into the Two-leg den, this valet's.

The food situation was dire indeed...and the Black Princess would have declined the offer if the cat was any other, but for her kin's sake, and that of her growling belly, she kept the look of distaste from her face and quietly dipped head head down to sample the dry kibble. It... certainly wasn't the worst she was forced to stomach. It was no substitute for a fresh kill or even a gravy flavored stew, but it was food.

Stepping back for her brother to partake, she sat herself delicately onto her haunches, the shine of her coat a jet black that made the sweep of her gaze more prominent on her face. "We understand your pain. Coming from such esteemed family and not being able to appreciate the culture of our noble house was one of the reasons we made such a journey to rekindle lost blood. Isn't that right, Aodhan?" Acknowledging her precious twin, together they were nearly indistinguishable. Perhaps he'd feel more comfortable now to add to their conversation.