Author's note: I'm guessing by the lack of reviews that some people have lost interest… Sobs Oh well. It won't keep me from posting more of my story though! Evil laugh

Thank you to Sachita for reviewing! I'm glad that you like it so far and I hope not to disappoint you! I do want to warn you, the next couple of chapters may be a bit boring but I promise you that they will get more interesting as the plot unfolds. Yeah I don't like Cathal very much either. That's the whole point though lol. I want people to really hate him. :D

Disclaimer: I own nothing of King Arthur, everything else that you do not recognize came from my head so yeah…

Many Meetings

The trip to Donaghee was short but none the less impressive. Arthur and his men had known Britain's beautiful green landscape, but never before had they seen so many different shades of Green. Spiritual land marks rose above the ground like wild flowers, their carvings made ever so delicately comprised of beautiful, elaborate knot work. Though these things, along with many others had been impressive, nothing compared to the home of Lord Abram.

Donaghee sat upon the edge of a high cliff on the southern shore. The castle, almost as old as time itself, was rich with history. It was said to have been created by powerful wizards who cast a spell to protect it from enemies. Its high walls protected the village within and made it almost impossible for anyone to enter uninvited. It also contained many secret passageways, Connor had told them. If one did not know them well, then it was easy to get lost and possible never found. There were also many tales of families who once lived in the castle during the days of the forgotten magic. It was easy to see why Donaghee was the very heart and soul of Ireland.

"And there below is my favorite spot," Connor said pointing to the small sandy beach below. "You are all welcome to it whenever you like." He addressed the knights. Galahad blinked. He had not been paying any attention to the conversations. He was too busy plotting how to keep Kayley and Connor away from each other. He scowled at them. They had ridden nearly the entire trip side by side.

Finally they had reached the front gate and not a moment too soon for Galahad. They all sat in silence for a moment. Galahad had to keep from throwing his dagger at Connor's head when he saw him brush away a loose strand of hair from Kayley's face. Slowly the gates opened. They were surprised to see whom the assumed to be King Abram and his son Cathal waiting in front of them.

They had all dismounted when Abram rushed up to them. "Welcome Lord Arthur!" He shook his hand and smiled. "I trust that you had a pleasant journey?"

"Indeed my lord, your son has been most hospitable." He turned to Cathal who had remained silent.

Refusing to be over shadowed by his younger brother, Cathal stepped forward, "I am Cathal, eldest Son of Abram, heir to the throne of Donaghee and Ireland." He said arrogantly. He looked the knights up and down as if disgusted. Such an uncivilized group of barbarians! And look, they even brought there own whore for their savage amusements! He smirked at them.

"Uh are we supposed to be impressed?" Galahad whispered. Bors choked back a laugh. Kayley gave him a mean look. Gods when did she get all serious? Arthur tensed. The alliance was fragile enough without Galahad having to make things more difficult.

Whether Cathal heard the statement or not, they could not tell. He continued, "I apologize for not being the one to escort you but I had not been feeling well and my brother offered to take my place." He paused for a moment. "Now if you excuse me, I have other matters to attend to." He turned around and walked away without another word.

Abram broke the silence with a warm laugh, "You've got a smart mouth on you don't you lad?" He looked at Galahad who suddenly felt like a complete ass. "You'll fit in just fine. Come let me show you to your living quarters."

Abram took them through a brief tour of the main parts of the castle. He even added in some of the castle's history, none of which Tristan paid any attention to. When one of the servants caught the attention of Abram and began to discuss plans for tonight's feast, Arthur quietly slipped next to Tristan. Making sure they were out of earshot, Arthur asked him, "So what do you think Tristan?"

He knew that Tristan had remained silent all this time because he was analyzing the people they had encountered. "Abram and his youngest son are pure in their intentions," he said. "This Cathal, I do not favor him and it's not his arrogance or pride that influences my judgment."

Arthur nodded. "You will keep an eye on him." Tristan merely nodded. At that moment, a door in front of them swung open, surprising everyone, including Tristan. What was more surprising to him was the woman who appeared before them. Isolde stopped dead in her tracks, embarrassed at the attention she had caused. Almost immediately, her eyes focused on Tristan. There eyes locked for what seemed like eternity. Her heart began to pound in her chest as she felt her cheeks flush. Tristan felt as if the wind had been knocked out of him. Never had he seen such a beautiful woman. Isolde had to fight to tear herself away from his piercing gaze. Quickly she turned away and walked as fast as she could without saying a word.

Abram came up beside them. "That was my eldest daughter, Isolde. You will be properly introduced to my daughters later on this evening." He turned to Arthur, "I have just been informed that Rome has been delayed for a few days, so there will be a celebration on your behalf. Now if you excuse me, I must attend some other matters; Aon will show you to your quarters."

They thanked Abram and followed the servant, Aon to their quarters.

Arthur and his men had retired to their rooms and began to clean up for the celebration. Connor had insisted on taking Kayley on a tour throughout the marketplace. Galahad frowned as he watched Kayley take Connor's offered arm as they walked into the distance.

"Don't worry lad, I'm sure he's just trying to lessen the tension." Lancelot said.

"If that were so then why does he only invite her?" Galahad said.

Lancelot raised his eyebrow. "You've really got it bad for her don't you?"

Galahad turned to face his friend. "Is it that obvious?"

Lancelot laughed. "Just tell her how you feel."

"What if she doesn't feel the same?"

"Let her go and find a new girl."

"I can't just forget about her like that Lancelot. She means more to me than that." He sighed. He knew his friend was right. What else was there for him to do but tell her how he felt? Who knows, maybe she might feel the same… he could only hope.

The market place pulsed with life as people moved about hunting for the best bargains. Never had Kayley seen so many beautiful trinkets. The food that was being sold smelled phenomenal. Connor had promised that the food at the celebration would be twice as good as the food sold at the market. They walked together engrossed in light conversation of their favorite past times while they walked arm in arm. Connor greeted some of the market goes with a smile. It was obvious that he was a good man. He obviously took the time to get to know the "common folk" and remembered their names. Those he did not know, he was glad to meet and made it a point to remember their names.

They had stopped in front of a small stand that had a beautiful display of delicately embroidered dresses. Kayley reached out to touch the fabric of a pale pink dress. It was more lavish than anything she had ever owned. It was made to fit around the shoulders and hung low at the breast. Bright gold beads were sewn with care in elaborate knot work. If only I ever owned something this lovely. She thought to herself.

Connor seemed to notice how her eyes glowed at the sight of the dress. He turned to the merchant and asked "How much for the dress?"

"Take it, a gift to you my lord and your beautiful lady." The man said.

"I insist, here," Connor reached into his pocket and gave the man the money.

The merchant's eyes grew large at the generous amount. "Thank you sire!" He bowed. He gently folded the dress and wrapped in a dark red cloth. He then tied it with ribbons to keep it from falling out. He gave the dress to Connor, who in turn handed it to Kayley.

She stared at Connor for a moment. "I don't know what to say." He took her hand in his and kissed it softly. Her heart began to beat faster. She felt herself blush.

"Consider it a welcoming present." He smiled. Then suddenly he grew nervous. "Kayley, I was wondering, well, I know that it has only been a few hours, but I feel like I already know you and…" he ran a hand through his thick brown hair. "I would be honored if you would allow me to accompany you to the festival." He watched her, his emerald eyes full of hope.

She smiled; "Yes!" she squealed and threw her arms around him, embracing him tightly. He tensed for a moment, shocked by her sudden display of affection. Slowly he wrapped his arms around her. She was the first to pull away. He felt his cheeks grow hot. "I must go I need to get ready." He nodded and walked her back to her room.

The festival was held in the court yard at sunset. Arthur and his knights had been formally introduced to the people. They had been seated at the largest table. The Arthur did his best to keep up with the conversation with his comrades, but his mind wandered else where. He had yet to meet his future bride and as the minutes passed, he grew more uneasy. Gawain and Dagonet laughed heartily at a joke that Bors had made. Lancelot had already busied himself by wooing a young maiden with fiery red hair. Arthur smiled. At least his men seemed to be enjoying themselves. He looked at Tristan. Silent as ever old friend. He thought to himself. There was something different about the scout though. He didn't know what exactly it was or when this change occurred. It was as if he let his guard down while he was deep in thought. He looked at Galahad. He had been staring at Kayley the entire time. She didn't seem to notice him as she causally searched the crowd for what he assumed to be Connor. Poor lad.

Suddenly the noise stopped. A man stepped forward and announced, "His Royal Highness Lord Abram King of Donaghee, his youngest son, Lord Connor and his eldest son Cathal heir to the throne of Donaghee." He paused a moment then continued, "The Ladies Isolde and Lady Caitriona, daughters of Lord Abram and jewels of Donaghee." Cait smiled, this was the moment she had been waiting for. She looked at her brother Connor who in turn smiled at her. Isolde walked quietly beside her father. He gave her hand a gentle squeeze and she smiled. Everyone stood to show their respects and bowed as they passed. Slowly they made their way to the table.

When Abram reached Arthur, he embraced the younger man and said, "Now Arthur, may I introduce to you my youngest daughter Caitriona." Slowly she stepped forward. She didn't dare look up. She was too frightened to. She bowed her head slightly as did Arthur.

Gently he took her hand in his and kissed it. "I am honored my lady." She still did not look up. Inside she screamed at herself to look up but she couldn't. She cursed herself for being so timid. As if sensing her struggle, Arthur placed a hand under her chin and lifted her face so that he could look into her eyes. He was taken aback at how beautiful her face was. He said softly, "Do not fear being with me, lady, for I am as any other man." She smiled at him and he felt his heart stop. She is beautiful.

"I trust that you all remember my eldest Isolde." The knights greeted her as she sat next to her father. She never took her eyes off Tristan, who in turn, locked eyes with her. She bowed her head in acknowledgement ever so slightly and took her seat beside Cathal. She could feel her heart pounding rapidly in her chest and feared that others could hear. Silently she prayed that she would be able to mask her discomfort behind her icy mask that had protected her from the world.

Slowly but surely the tension seemed to die as they immersed themselves in the celebration. Everything came to life before their eyes as elegant dancers dressed in vibrant clothes took to the center of the floor. They swayed to the music, their feet barely touching the floor as if they could fly. As quickly as the performance had begun, it ended and a new act begun. By this time, dinner was being served and people continued to laugh and enjoy each others company.

Abram and Arthur were caught in conversation, while Bors busied himself in telling jokes to anyone who would listen. Lancelot had been dragged to the dance floor by the young maiden from the village, who he had come to know as Maeve. Gawain was talking to Dagonet about Brevlan and their unborn child. Kayley seemed to be anxious as she twisted the sleeve of her dress in her hands.

Galahad watched Kayley nervously. His palms were sweating and he felt his face begin to flush as he did his best to work up his nerve to ask her to dance. As he was about to stand, a figure in the corner of his eye caught his attention. When he turned back he was too late, Connor stood next to Kayley and as he whispered into her ear she smiled and took his arm. Galahad slumped down into his chair and sighed as he watched Connor whisk Kayley away to the dance floor.

Arthur stood suddenly and turned to Cait, "Would you care to dance my lady?"

Cait smiled as she stood. She merely nodded her head unable to speak.

Abram smiled at the pair. They seem to be taken with one another. It pleased him when he noticed how they stole silent glances at one another. He watched as they danced gracefully across the floor. They moved in perfect harmony and seemed to glow in each other's presence. Good at least I know that she'll be happy. Suddenly, Connor and Kayley came into view and he couldn't help but laugh. They animatedly spun around the floor, laughing and smiling, but never loosing contact. He hadn't expected for his youngest son to make a connection with the female knight. Looks like there is going to be another wedding. He turned to make conversation with his eldest son, but to his surprise he was gone.

Little by little the crowd began to lessen as the hour grew late and spectators grew weary. Lancelot had already returned to his quarters with Maeve in order to pursue other activities. Finally, the royal family and the knights bid each other goodnight and returned to their quarters. Dagonet and Galahad had been given the arduous task of making sure that a very drunk Bors and Gawain made it to their rooms in one piece. Bors let out a thunderous laugh that shook the halls.

"Shut up you old bastard are you trying to wake the dead?!" Galahad snapped as he half dragged, half carried Gawain.

"Wots smatter boy?" Bors slurred. He swayed back and forth bringing Dag with him. "Pissed cuz Kayley's gonna warm Connor's bed instead o' yours?"

Galahad sparked and moved to punch Bors but instantly regretted it when Gawain nearly hit the floor.

"Enough!" Dag boomed. Bors and Galahad covered their ears and winced. Quick he shoved Bors into his room.

"But-" Bors began but was cut off when Dag slammed the door in his face. They heard a loud thump and instantly they knew that he had fallen backwards. They looked at each other for a moment.

"He'll be fine." Dag said as he helped shove Gawain into his room. Just then Arthur appeared beside them trying his best to hold the smile that threatened to break through. He had just escorted Cait to her room and it was obvious that it had gone well.

"She's very pretty," Dag commented, "and she seems to be quite taken with you."

"So it would seem." Arthur said. Then he looked around, "Where is Tristan?"

"I don't know," Galahad answered, "when I asked him where he was going he said 'none of your business.'"

Just then soft giggles drew their attention to the far end of the hall. They turned to see Kayley and Connor standing by her door. He whispered something in her ear and gently kissed her hand. Her cheeks turned a crimson red as she leaned against the wall. He took one last look at her and left. Smiling, she held the fresh rose to her nose gently inhaling its sweet scent. She suddenly became aware of her surroundings and turned to the knights. "Not a word," she threatened as she slammed the door to her room.

Dag and Arthur burst into laughter as Galahad stormed off to his room.

She couldn't see anything among the darkness of the forest but she knew that it was all around her. The smell was overbearing and nearly removed her of all her senses. Death. It was something that she knew all too well. The sense of darkness that seemed to smother all hopes of survival, the way her heart seemed to have a cold, clammy tightness in her chest as it pounded furiously inside her and knowing that nothing she did could save them.

She stood atop a high hill over looking the sea. The faces before her blurred as they fought each other and died among each other, their screams rattling her very soul. Accalon appeared before her, his bloody mutilated body dragged itself towards her, rasping for air. Instantly she stepped back but in a flash, he grabbed her right ankle with so much force that she cried out. She looked down at him willing herself to say "I'm sorry" but nothing came. He looked up at her and was horrified to see that his eye had been gouged out.

Then the scene before her changed. It was her father and her eldest brother Alastar. No it couldn't be father, he's too young. It was true, the man before her was too young to be his father with his jet black hair, muscular body and ice blue eyes. And yet, his ring bore their family crest. Father's ring. Just then, the young man ran his blade through Alastar's abdomen. Blood poured out in unnatural amounts as he slowly fell to the ground. There he lay in front of her, his clothes drenched in blood and his eyes gouged out.

Isolde screamed aloud and instantly she woke. She breathed heavily as drops of sweat ran down her face. She couldn't breath. I have to get out of here. Instantly she leaped from her bed and ran down the corridor towards the gardens. She ran and ran until she fell to her knees beneath a huge weeping willow. Exhausted, she leaned against its trunk and sobbed. She had thought that these nightmares had left her for good but they had returned. Many times since the death of her brother she had sought solace from this very spot. It had been Alastar's hiding place when he wanted to be left alone. Slowly her tears lessened as she sat in silence, shivering in the cold night.

"A little late for you to be out princess." A deep voice said above her.

Quickly she jumped on her feet. Silently she cursed aloud. How could he have slipped by me unnoticed? She never let anyone see her cry and she hated the fact that this stranger, possibly and enemy, saw her so vulnerable. What would they think of the Donaghee Clan now?

Tristan landed gracefully beside her. "It's not safe." Isolde merely blinked. She wasn't expecting for the voice to come from the mysterious dark knight. At a loss for words she just stood there bewildered. He felt the soft pang of disappointment. Her silence had been mistaken for fear. "Do you fear being with me?" he said with a hint of sarcasm.

He's toying with me! She felt her body grow hot with anger as she snapped "No, why should I be?"

This should be interesting. Daring to see if her spark of courage was merely an act he continued, "If you were smart you would." He took a step closer and was surprised when she did not step back. Instead she closed the distance between them.

Her lips were inches away from his as she whispered, "I fear nothing, not even death." He looked into her eyes and saw a fiery passion that made his heart skip a beat. Her eyes showed that she was not putting up a pretense. The eyes of a predator. Despite himself, Tristan chuckled. This seemed to relax her and she couldn't help but laugh. Suddenly she shivered. Her anger had made her forget about the cold and now that it was gone she couldn't help but tremble.

Then without thinking, Tristan removed his long, heavy coat and wrapped it around her shoulders. "Thank you," she whispered. She started to walk and slowly he followed her, unsure if she wanted his company. He waited for her to speak. "They say that you are the silent one. You say nothing, yet I know you see much."

"Aye," he said. He cursed his uneasiness. He had been use to being ignored and rarely sought out conversation. How strange that in this moment he regretted his aloofness. And yet, she didn't seem to mind. In fact, she seemed to be smiling at his silence.

She stopped to look at him. "Do you have naught to say to me Sir Tristan?" a glint of humor shone in her eyes as she watched him.

He stopped abruptly. He did not look at her as he responded, "I do not have the ability to converse with others that I have just met." Why he had admitted that, he didn't know. There was something about her, something that he couldn't explain. He felt comfortable with her.

She smiled at him and said, "Well I guess you and I have to work on that." They continued to walk together in silence. Finally they had reached her room. She handed him back his coat. "Thank you for your company and escorting me to my quarters Sir Tristan." She slightly curtsied as she added, "It was a pleasure speaking with you, one that I hope to indulge in more often."

"Goodnight Princess," He bowed his head.

"Isolde, call me Isolde." she said.

"Goodnight Isolde." He said and silently he left.

She closed the door to her room almost mechanically. She didn't understand the strange feeling inside of her but she did know that she wanted it to stay. She was sincere when she said that she hopped to speak to him more in the future. She yawned as she crawled back into her bed and instantly fell asleep.