Disclaimer: Alas, I own nothing, save Evangeline and Corin, and the plot. There will bemore characters that will enter the story, and I also own them, unless noted otherwise.

Summary: Evan and Corin, two best friends, set of for an adventure for riches and glory. But what else will they find along the way? This story is mostly about Evangeline, but Corin is a pretty main character later on.(Rated T for some things that will come later.)

Chapter Two

That night, Gwen and Evan had cried when they saw each other, and hugged fiercely for quite a while. Then, they retreated to Gwen's tent, so the men gathered around the fire and discussed Evangeline.

"She is quite different from Gwen," remarked Galahad, throwing a stick into the fire absently.

"Yes. Her blonde hair is much whiter than Gwen's, and is almost blinding in the sunlight. And her eyes are that gorgeous green-yellow…" said Lancelot, staring off into space.

A few men sniggered, and Bors spoke up. "Lancelot, have you found a new lady to share the night with?"

Arthur gave Bors a stern look, then turned to Lancelot. "I'm afraid that I cannot let you share a bed with Evangeline… She is my sister, of sorts, and unless she gives her consent, you are not to touch her."

Corin shifted slightly; he was feeling quite uncomfortable. Evan was his best friend, and had known her since he was two years old.

"Don't worry," Lancelot said with a mischievous glint in his eyes, "I won't lay a hand on her. Well, that is, unless she begs me…"

All the men (save Arthur, Tristan, and Corin) roared with laughter.

:-:

The women did not emerge from the tent until the next morning. They were up before the men, so decided to practice while it was still cool.

"Oh, Evan, I really wish you would have let me give you some decent clothes…" Gwen said sadly, unsheathing her narrow, thin sword from a sheath on her horse's saddle.

"My own clothes are all right, Gwen," Evan said softly, glancing down at her attire. A woolen, maroon tunic hung loosely on her slim torso. It was quite big, and the long sleeves hid her hands, even though Evan had rolled them up several times. Also, the tunic hung off of one shoulder, showing off a tattoo of an "x" on her left bicep.

A pair of black breeches rested dangerously low, revealing very bony hips and a slim, slightly muscled torso. A simple silver belt kept her breeches from falling completely to her knees.

The only weapons Evan had were throwing knives, and two swords that she had sheathed on her back, in an "X" fashion, a bit like Lancelot's own swords. A few more small knives were hidden in her big black boots, but she rarely had to use them. Another long knife was strapped onto her right bicep, hidden in the folds of maroon fabric.

Gwen just muttered something about dressing appropriately as a lady, but Evan pretended not to hear. That was just like Gwen, she thought with a slight smile. Always wanting me to be a 'proper lady.' Evan looked at her sister's attire: Gwen wore a silvery-blue tunic made of the finest silk, and exactly her size; and dark gray breeches that fit tightly against her slender legs.

"Shall we begin, then?" asked Evan, only pulling one of her swords from her back. The blade was a soft green color, and the hilt was bright gold, oddly. Strange words were delicately laid into the hilt of the sword.

Gwen gave her sister a grin then nodded. She waited for Evan to attack first, for she knew that was exactly how they used to practice.

Evan did attack first, with a slow slice towards Gwen's thigh. Gwen, in turn, blocked it easily. They continued on like this, going at a slow pace, until both women were a bit pink in the face. Then the real practice began. Both women moved with grace and power, but Gwen had a bit more grace, and Evan a bit more power.

Hearing the loud clashing of swords, Arthur and the rest of the knights looked outside of their tents to see what was going on.

Lancelot watched Evan intently, studying every slight movement, and even her facial expressions, which he found most interesting. Most women who hit as hard as Evan would have very serious, grim looks on their faces. Evan had a very serene, almost bored look on her face, as if she was holding back. Lancelot gave a small smile, got dressed, and walked out of his tent.

Galahad, Gawain, and Tristan were already dressed and watching the two women. Galahad was rooting for Gwen, Gawain for Evan, and Tristan silent, as always.

:-:

After another half an hour, Evan finally got Gwen on the ground and held a sword to her throat. "I do believe I'm the winner, dearest Gwen," she remarked with a smile.

Gwen returned her smile. "Well, I suppose I was just a bit rusty, Evan. I'll beat you next time."

Evan held out a hand to help Gwen up, then she walked over to the men. Gwen, on the other hand, trotted over to Arthur, an upset look on her face.

Arthur frowned, and took his wife's hand. "What is it, Gwen?"

"She's gotten much, much better. I could tell she was holding back… How could she have improved that much in such a short period of time? I used to be able to beat her easily… Something is not right, and those swords give me shivers…"

"Gwen, she must have just practiced a lot since you last saw her. There's nothing to worry about, dear. Now, you must be famished; shall we get something to eat?" he asked, leading Gwen to the fire where breakfast was cooking.

A/N: The end! No, just kidding. This story is not even close to ending. Sorry I haven't updated in practically forever, guys. I've been really busy, what with school and all. I would really love any tips or comments you have, loves!