A/N: I own nothing of Merlin. Give the credit to BBC. Aurora is my own made up character along with her extended family.
To old readers: It's been awhile since I touched this story. After everything that happened the last time I decided to rewrite it and give My OC an update, I changed her background story and gave her a new name, which you voted on. Hopefully this time I've done better. I thank you for sticking it out and bearing with me while I tried to fix the mistake that I made. Enjoy.
To new readers: I'm very happy you stopped by and decided to take a look. I hope you enjoy this story.
Let the new story beginning!
An Tales de Aurora Alden
I walked alongside my adoptive brother Merlin as we made our way toward the kingdom of Camelot. I was only three years old than Merlin according to our mother. Merlin's father had found me in the forest and had brought me to Hunith. Hunith had taken me with no questions asked and raised me as her own daughter.
I had asked her once when I was younger I asked if she knew my birth parents or why they left me. She told me that she didn't know who they were or why they left me in the forest. She said that it had to be something terrible for them does such a thing to their beautiful little baby.
As I stopped along Merlin on top of a hill I saw the castle of Camelot for the first time.
"It sure is a beautiful castle," I said.
"Yeah it is. Let's get going, Uncle Gaius is expecting us," replied Merlin.
As we entered the castle square a couple hours later, we saw a platform with a man in a noose and the king standing on the balcony before everyone. As we stood in the back of the crowd that had gathered, the king Uther starts addressing the crowd.
"Let this serve as a lesson to all. This man, Thomas James Collins, is judged guilty of conspiring to use enchantments and magic. And pursuant to the laws of Camelot, I, Uther Pendragon, have decreed that such practices are banned on penalty of death. I pride myself as a fair and just king, but for the crimes of sorcery there is but one sentence I can pass," stated King Uther.
As I looked on in fear, I couldn't help but catch the king looking at me briefly as the man was dropped before continuing on with his speech.
"When I came to this land, this kingdom was mired in chaos, but with the people's help magic was driven from this realm. So I declare a festival to celebrate twenty years since the great dragon was capture and Camelot freed from the evil of sorcery. Let the celebrations begin."
An old woman suddenly stepped up waling.
"There is only one evil in this land, and it is not magic! It is you! With your hatred and your ignorance! You killed my son! But I promise you, before these celebrations are over, you will share my tears. An eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth, a son for a son," she shouted.
"Seize her!" shouted Uther.
She disappeared in a whirl of smoke and wind.
XXX
We eventually left the square and headed for the physician's chambers. We had to stop and ask for directions.
"Where would we find Gaius, the-the court physician?" I asked the guard.
The guard pointed towards the stairs and Aurora headed up first. I could tell she was tired and wanted to rest. We eventually arrived at a slightly opened door and Aurora knocked.
"Hello?" she called opening the door wider.
We wandered in and looked around.
"Hello? Gaius?" Aurora called once more.
I cleared my throat.
Gaius trips over backwards from the bookshelf stairs with the railing going. I looked to see Aurora's eyes glowing gold and time slows enough for me to magically sweep a nearby cot under our uncle.
"What did you two just do?!" he asked getting off the cot.
"Erm..." said Aurora.
"Tell me!"
"We- we- we have no idea what happened," I replied.
"If anyone had seen that..."
"Er, no! That- that was- that was nothing to do with us. That- that was..." stated Aurora.
"I know what it was girl! I just want to know where you learned how to do it!"
"Nowhere," I answered.
"So how is it you two know magic?" questioned Gaius.
"We don't," replied Aurora staring at Gaius.
"Where did you study? Answer me!"
Aurora and I shared a look before answering him.
"We never studied magic or were taught. We were born with it sir," replied Aurora.
Aurora took out the letter that mother had given us when we left. She held it out for Gaius to take.
"This might explain things. Our mother sent it."
"You are Hunith children."
"But you're not meant to be here till Wednesday!"
"It is Wednesday," I replied.
"Ah. Right, then. You better put your bags in there," he stated pointing to the other room.
You- you won't say anything about, erm..." asked Aurora.
"No. Although, Aurora, I should say thank you."
XXX
That afternoon Gaius had us out delivering potions to his patients. As we entered the market place, I saw a blonde hair boy tormenting a younger boy. I could that he was royalty by the clothes he wore and knew it was best to keep moving. I frowned as Merlin stepped in and knew that Merlin was doing the opposite of what uncle had told us not to do. I watched as the Prince of Camelot ordered the guards to drag Merlin to the dungeon.
"Merlin, what part of 'stay out of trouble' did you not hear," I asked as they passed getting the attention of the prince.
"Who are you?" he asked.
"The boy you just arrested is my adopted brother. Why do you care?" I replied rather rude.
I had to admit that was a mistake. I would later regret this whole conversation.
"Do you not pay attention?" he question. "Didn't you hear who I am?"
"Yes actually. I know you are a prince of this kingdom and I know you just my little brother arrest."
"Maybe you should teach your brother some manners."
"Maybe it's you who should learn some manners, Sire."
"What's your name?"
"Aurora Igraine. Gaius' niece."
XXX
I watched the girl that the court had seemed to be whispering about all day. People said she was the spitting image of Princess Elizabeth of Ibelle. My father was even questioning about the girl. I knew that Princess Elizabeth and her husband Sir James had once lived in Camelot and were good friends of my father's. I had been told that I was very close in age to their oldest daughter, Aurora, who had been lost during the Purge.
I could tell this girl, Aurora, was not a person you could push around. Whoever got her as a maid servant would have a hell of a time trying to get her obey.
XXX
I walked away from the prince toward the castle and went directly back to Uncle's chambers. Who looked up as I walked in and shut the door rather roughly behind me.
"Where is Merlin?" he asked. "And why are you in a bad mood?"
"Merlin's gotten himself thrown in the dungeon for insulting the prince," I replied. "Which lead to me shooting my mouth off at said prince."
"I thought I told you two to stay out of trouble!"
"Merlin doesn't listen well and I have a very short fuse with royalty for many reasons."
"You get that from your birth mother. She had a very short fuse."
I looked at him quizzically.
"You knew my birth parents?" I asked.
"I was good friends with them so was King Uther and Queen Igraine," he replied. "They made sure to name you after the Queen Igraine; sadly you never got to know her or did her son."
"What were their names?"
"Sir..."
Gaius was interrupted by a guard entering the room.
"The king would like to see you and the girl Gaius," said the guard.
"Of course. We'll be there shortly," answered uncle.
The guard left and Gaius looked at me for an explanation.
"I gave the prince my name. I didn't think anything of it," I explained.
"Did you give your middle name?"
"Yes, but you can't blame me, I didn't know."
"We can't keep Uther waiting."
We walked out of the chambers. I followed Gaius noting the route as we went to the throne room. When we entered the whole court was assembled and the royal family standing/ sitting on the dais. Gaius bowed and I followed by curtsy before the king.
"I have heard your niece has insulted my son," stated Uther.
"She has told me that it happened after her brother was arrested for the same thing. I have spoken to her and it shall not happen again," said Gaius.
"That is not why I called you two here. Your name is Aurora Igraine, is that correct?" questioned the king.
"Yes, Sire," I replied.
"It has been quite a long time since I have seen you. You were just a baby when your parents lost you during a bandit attack," he said.
"What?" I asked.
"You are Lady Aurora Alden, the oldest daughter of Princess Elizabeth of Ibelle and Sir James Alden."
"I was adopted by Hunith of Ealdor when I was six months old. I have no idea who you are talking about," I said.
"Of course you don't know any of this because you just a baby then."
"Sire..." interrupted Gaius.
I tuned everything out at that point. I knew I was adopted, but I was never told that my birth family was the royal family of a kingdom that allowed magic. I snapped out of my thought when my name was said.
"Aurora must be return to them. They have been looking for her since then. Even those I would want to see her parents punished, they deserve to have their child," said Uther.
I glared at him.
"Excused me? Did you just say you wanted to punish my birth parents?" I questioned. "I will not be bait for you to harm them! I don't even believe you yet! I would like some proof that I am their long lost daughter before claiming to be!"
"Watch your tone young lady!" he shouted at me.
"Watch your tone Sire! I don't want anything to do with you! I'm not Lady Aurora Alden! Please just leave me alone!" I said firmly before turning on my heels and leaving the throne room.
"You have not been dismissed!" he shouted.
I turned around and looked at him.
"Really?!"
"Get out of my sight!"
"My pleasure Sire!"
I walked out and made my way back to Gaius's. I walked in to the chambers and up to my room where my thought and tears took over. How would I explain this to Merlin, I was his sister, we grew up together. Merlin could accept it or it could drive us apart. I couldn't lose another family; it would break my heart if I did.
"Aurora?" called Gaius upon returning.
I wiped my tears away and went down to the main room.
"Yes?" I replied.
He was holding a leather bound book.
"I know that this very sudden, but I think you should know the truth about your family. Your grandparents are coming to Camelot in a couple weeks to settle a trade deal with Uther. They will know it is you, especially your father for he is their personal guard. Your mother however will not. Uther has banned her from ever setting foot in the kingdom," explained Gaius. "She left a journal that explained what was happening and why things were done."
"How can I be Aurora Igraine Alden? There are just words against words. Uncle there has to be proof, hard proof, like a birth mark or something that only their daughter would have?" I questioned.
"There is much actually. You are the spitting image of your mother. You have the dark chestnut hair and emerald green eyes. There is your temper and the fact that you stood up to a man you don't even know. You scream Elizabeth Alden," he stated. "Also the scar that is on your forehead, you fell from your father's horse and spilt your head open."
I rubbed the scar. I had always wondered how I got that scar.
"You need time to explore and understand the reasons. If you have questions come ask me and I'll try to answer them as best as I can."
"Thank you uncle."
I took the journal from him and immediately started to read it.
March 19,
Yesterday James and I welcomed our first daughter, Aurora Igraine Alden. James says that she looks like me, but I don't see it yet, perhaps in time I will see it. Uther and Igraine came to out to meet Rora. Igraine is absolutely smitten with our beautiful little girl. I can't wait until she has her baby. Our son Robert is excited to have a sister; he's already told us that he'll protect his little sister.
I best put this journal down before James gets upset with me. I can't see Gaius glaring at me for not resting.
March 24,
Today, Aurora was christen and introduced to her godparents, King Uther and Queen Igraine as well as to my parents King Edward and Queen Rochelle of Ibelle. Aurora was the most well behaved baby, I have ever seen. James was surprise that she was sobbing when the priest sprinkle the water on her face. She is certainly going to have her father wrapped around her finger as she gets older. She has already begun the process.
I should only be thinking of my newborn daughter, but I can't help but think that something terrible is going to happen and I will be separated from my child. I hope that my fear will not come to pass. I must go Rora is crying for me and she will not wait for she is much like me, impatience.
I flipped the page and read more about me as a baby. Then I came to a new entry.
June 5,
Igraine gave birth today to the future heir to the throne of Camelot, Prince Arthur Pendragon. Sadly though she will never know her son for she did not make it. Uther is distraught about the death of his beloved wife.
I have spoken to Gaius and he has told me something rather disturbing. My feelings about something happening that will separate my family are coming to pass. I hope Uther hasn't done something that he shouldn't have done.
June 9,
Uther has turned on the Magic community and ordered magic users to be executed. Gaius and James have tried reassuring me that I am not on the list yet. James and I have decided to send Robert off to Ibelle for his safe, which for Uther's knowing is for education for his rule someday. Aurora is showing signs of magic and I fear if Uther finds out she will be killed.
I must go now I have to watch Aurora and make sure she doesn't do magic in front of Uther.
I flipped through and read pages about Prince Arthur and me playing together until I hit a new one.
September 1,
Uther's finally signed my arrest warrant today. Gaius told James this afternoon that Uther wants me and that we should get out while we can with Rora. Uther's also made plans on how to capture the great dragon. I fear for my daughter and magic. Uther is going to regret starting a war with the magic community.
I have started packing things for our escape to Ibelle. My parents have stayed with the magic community and are fighting back against Uther and the other kingdoms.
I noticed that a couple days were skipped and I finally came to the part about me.
September 5,
We lost Aurora. We were attacked by a patrol from Camelot and in the midst of that we lost Aurora in the woods. We can't go back to find her for its too dangerous with the patrol. We can only hope that she will be found and be with a loving family. Our beautiful little girl is lost to us and hopefully not with Uther.
Bye Aurora.
I was crying again as I read that entry. My birth parents hadn't given me up on purpose or were forced by Uther. They had simple lost me during an attack by Uther's men. Lucky I had been found by Merlin's father and brought to Hunith.
I flipped the page and saw one last entry.
Dear Aurora,
If you have somehow found this Journal then you have lived through a terrible consequence that Uther Pendragon brought onto his kingdom and perhaps the world. Your father and I lived in a time where a great war broke out and forced us to lost many friends because of Uther. A great dragon once told me that you had a great destiny to fix what Uther caused to help his son Prince Arthur Pendragon bring peace to the land with the help of a great wizard.
I hope that one day you will bring this future. Your father and I are so sorry that we could not watch grow up or raise you ourselves. I thank the people that raised and cared for you to get through life.
We love you very much,
Princess Elizabeth of Ibelle.
I closed the book and looked to Gaius.
"It's true then. I'm Rochelle Igraine Alden," I stated. "How did you get my mother's journal if she took it with her?"
"She gave it to me, about a year or two after she had been banned from Camelot. She is a magic user, not as powerful as you and Merlin. She was taught magic by her mother. You were born with it," replied Gaius.
"She lost everything to Uther. Does he know that I was lost to them by his men?"
"Your father told him bandits had attacked and you were lost during the fight. Its dinner time and then you need to sleep on this information."
I nodded in agreement and helped Gaius get dinner ready.
XXX
"Aurora..."
I sat up in my bed and looked around for whoever was calling my name, but found no one.
"Aurora...This way..."
I got up, putting on my boots and jacket over my night clothes, followed the strange voice and eventually came upon a couple guards play dice. I animated the dice to lead them down the hallway. I grabbed a torch headed down the hallway to a stair case. I eventually entered a giant cave and looked around.
"Hello? Anyone here?" I called out.
I heard the flapping of wings and watch a dragon fly down and land on the giant rock before me.
"Oh my lord," I muttered in complete shock.
"Hello Lady Aurora," The dragon said.
"You're...you're a dragon."
"I should say so," said the dragon.
I stared at the dragon, eventually came out of my stupor. My life had completely flipped upside down.
"How did you know my name?" I questioned.
"I have known of your name since you were born. Your mother was a highly respected magic user before Uther Pendragon turned on the magic community and started the Purge," explained the dragon.
"I'm just learning about my true parentage and now I have a dragon on my back."
"You are a part of a great destiny. A destiny you share with Emrys and the once and future king."
I looked up at the dragon surprised.
"Is the once and future king Prince Arthur Pendragon, the royal jerk?"
"How did you know?"
"My mother told me in her journal. She said that I was to help bring about peace with Prince Arthur."
"You are the once and future queen, you will marry the young Pendragon and bring about Alboin and help protect it from the dark magic that seeks to destroy it."
I glared at the dragon.
"I will not marry that Prat! Unless I have lost my mind!" I shouted.
"You must or all is lost."
The dragon flew off.
"Get back here you reptile! I will not marry that man in a million years! You hear me!" I shouted.
It was no use, the dragon had buggered off. I headed back up to my bed to get some sleep before morning. As I made my way up to the livable parts of the castle, I thought about how I could possibly break the news to Merlin that I was a princess. I quickly made my way past my sleeping uncle and up to my bed.
XXX
Gaius left shortly after breakfast to go get Merlin out of the cells and I started cleaning the breakfast dishes. Once I was done, I headed out for the library to get some more information on my family. The journal had helped and bit but it didn't help me to be sure I was who people told me I was.
"Hello?" I called out as I stepped into the library.
An Older gentleman stood up from the main desk and smiled.
"Hello miss, how can I help?" he asked.
"I wanted to see if you had any information on the Alden family? I've been trying to understand something's," I explained.
I watched his smile drop.
"I'm sorry, I can't help you. If you would so kindly as to leave me to get back to my work," he replied.
"Why?"
"Because there are no records on the Alden family."
"I see. Thank you for your time."
I left the man to his work and headed back up to help Gaius. The only way I would get answer would be to claim that I was Aurora Alden. I couldn't go asked the king because it would end nowhere good. My life in Camelot had just gotten harder.
XXX
When Gaius said there was a price to pay, I didn't think it would be the stocks. I was being pelted with rotten fruit and vegetables by children. I saw Aurora and Gaius walk pass laughing.
"Thanks!" I said to them.
The children left and a woman approaches.
"I'm Guinevere, but most people call me Gwen. I'm lady Morgana's maid," She said.
"I'm Merlin," I replied holding my hand for her to shake. "Although, most people just call me idiot. My sister Aurora calls me Mer."
"No, no, no. I saw what you did. It was so brave. Your sister is quite daring and bold."
"It was stupid."
"Well, I'm glad he walked away. You were going to beat him," said Gwen.
"Oh, I… I can beat him," I said.
"You think? Because you don't look like one of those big, muscle-y kind of fellows."
"Thanks."
"No! No, I'm sure you're stronger than you look. It's just, erm… Arthur's one of these real rough, save the world kind of men, and … well…"
"What?"
"You don't look like that."
I motion for her to come closer.
"I'm in disguise."
She looked confused for moment and then laughs.
"Well, it's great you stood up to him," she stated.
"What? You think so?" I questioned.
"Arthur's a bully, and everyone thought you were a real hero."
"Oh, yeah?"
"Mm-hmm," she said nodding.
The children returned with more rotten food.
"Oh, excuse me, Guinevere. My fans are waiting."
Gwen leaves as they start pelting me again.
XXX
I just sat three plates down on the table as a disgusting smell hit my nose. I turned and found Merlin walking in.
"Do you want vegetables with that?" I said trying not to laugh.
Merlin glared at me.
"I know you're still angry with me Gaius," said Merlin.
"Your mother asked me to look after you two," replied Gaius.
I had to tell merlin that was a noble. In my heart I would always be his big sister and Hunith's daughter no matter what.
"Merlin, I'm a princess of a kingdom?" I stated.
"That's ridicules Aurora. Why would a royal family give up their child?" said Merlin.
"No it's not. My birth name is Aurora Igraine Alden. I was born right here in Camelot. My parents didn't give me up, they lost me as the fled for safety. Princess Elizabeth of Ibelle is my mother," I explained.
Merlin looked away and started eating his dinner. I looked at Gaius who mentioned for me to sit down.
"Now what did your mother say to you about your gifts?" asked Gaius.
"That I was special," said Merlin.
"We," I corrected.
He glared at me. I knew that was going to happen. Merlin didn't accept the truth.
"Right, I get the message," I muttered eating my dinner.
"You are special, both of you. The likes of which I have never seen before," said Gaius padding my hand.
"What do you mean?" I asked.
"Well, magic requires incantations, spells. It takes years to study. What I saw you two do was…elemental, instinctive," explained Gaius.
What's the point if it can't be used?" asked Merlin.
"That I do not know. You two are a question that has never been posed before."
"I'm going for a walk. I need some air," I said getting up to leave.
I basically lost my brother in a day. I quietly walked through the hallway thinking until I ran into the girl that sat next to King Uther earlier.
"I'm so sorry my lady," I said quickly curtsy.
"Oh, it's okay. I'm Morgana and you are Aurora the girl from earlier," she said.
"Yes, I'm Aurora Alden," I replied.
"You were very bold to stand up to both the prince and the king. I thought I was the only one that could make Uther that angry."
"I shouldn't have."
"No, you should have. Uther had no right to push you around. You had just found out that your family is a highly respected family with the politics in the kingdoms. They're the only kingdom that stood up to Uther and won."
"Really?"
"Yes. Your brother is brave to stand up to Prince Arthur the man is a total jerk."
"I don't have a brother. He doesn't think I'm a princess or at least a lady."
"I'm sorry to hear that. If you ever need someone to talk to you can come to me."
"Thank you, I'll keep that in mind."
We said good night and went our separate way. I headed back to Gaius, came up with the easiest solution to my problem with Merlin. I would go to Uther in the morning and claim my name and title. It would remove the tension between merlin and I. I walked in and up to the room he and I shared to find him waiting for me.
"I'm sorry Rora," he said.
"Yeah I stopped believing in that a long time ago. If it came from William and you it was never true," I said going to my pack. "I'll be leaving in the morning. I'm claiming my title and my name. You'll never have to see me again."
"Rora…"
"You made it clear earlier that you don't believe me and don't want to be my brother, so I'm giving you what you want. I'll write Hunith explaining who I am and how you basically pushed me out of the family," I stated packing up my things for the morning. "I'm not going to cause tension for Gaius."
I lay in my bed that night. The last night I would ever share a room with Merlin. I eventually fell asleep.
I found myself in the woods wearing a white gold grown and a matching. I looked to see a scene playing out in front of me. I saw an older version of me in a beautiful green dress and a deep red cloak around her shoulder. She was standing in front of a familiar looking man, in chain mail and red cape.
I looked to the left and saw small gathering of people. Lady Morgana, Gaius, Merlin, Uther, Hunith, and some people I didn't recognized.
"Do you Aurora Alden, Princess of Ibelle, take Arthur Pendragon, Prince of Camelot, to be your wedded husband?"
"I Aurora Alden, do take Arthur Pendragon has my wedded husband," she stated without removing her gaze from the prince.
'No! You can't marry that prat!' I shouted at myself.
No one seemed to notice that I was screaming.
"Do you, Arthur Pendragon, Prince of Camelot, take Aurora Alden, Princess of Ibelle, to your wedded wife?"
"I, Arthur Pendragon, do take, Aurora Alden has my wedded wife," he stated never looking away from my older self.
'No you don't!' I said trying to smack the prince.
My hand went right through the prince's shoulder. My eyes went wide with shock. I went up to Uther.
'You wouldn't let me marry your son! Not after I basically told you off! Especially if you knew I had magic!' shouted.
Uther only stood up and began to clap. I turned to see myself kissing Prince Arthur rather passionately.
'Well… that's not what I wanted to see,' I commented.
'This is only a dream of your future, my dear daughter," came a new voice.
I turned around and saw a woman standing in a similar outfit to me.
'Who are you?' I asked.
'You know who I am,' she replied. 'You won't meet me for months, but I wanted to see you for myself.'
'Elizabeth?'
'Yes, Elizabeth. Your father was right, you do look like me, but you have your father's hair and he his emerald eyes.'
'This whole thing is not happening,' I replied mentioning to the wedding.
'This is far in the future,' she said. 'One your father hasn't got grey hair yet.'
'A future that shall not happen.'
My mother smiled and shook her head.
'I want you to know that we never ever forgot about you nor stopped loving you. I know that we will have to share with your adopted family, but to get to see you that you made it through the purge the greatest thing that I could ever know. Everyone lost so much, Uther lost his beloved wife and Camelot their queen. Your father and I lost you Aurora; just to see you now is the best thing to ever happen to me.'
'You won't have to share me. My brother merlin pushed me away; he doesn't want anything to do with me now that I'm a princess.'
'It's not going to last long and I'll have to share you, but I don't care Aurora. You have two families that love you very much and very bright future. It is time we part way for now, my dear sweet Aurora. We shall see each other again soon," she said disappearing.
I looked back to the wedding to see myself and Prince Prat walking down the aisle hand in hand happy as can be.
'Prat,' I muttered.
"Aurora, wake up, it's morning," came Gaius voice.
My eyes snapped opened and I looked up at Gaius.
"Morning Uncle," I replied.
He laughed and left me to get. I got up and got ready for the day. Once I was dressed, I grabbed my pack and was about to leave when I remembered my mother journal. I went back and grabbed it up before exiting the room one last time.
"So what Merlin said is true?" asked Gaius.
"Don't try and talk me out of it. I need to take my place," I replied.
"I wasn't going to, but Merlin's just as confused as you," stated Gaius.
"Yeah, well, he doesn't want me as his sister anymore and I don't want any more tension for you to deal with."
"I understand. I'll explain everything to Merlin and hopefully he'll understand."
"Thank you Uncle."
I kissed Gaius check and walked out the door. I made my way to the throne room. The guards stopped me.
"I need to speak with the king," I said.
"He's dinning with the prince and lady Morgana. He is not to be interrupted," said the guard.
"I am Aurora Igraine Alden, Princess Elizabeth of Ibelle's daughter. I wish to let the king know that I am here," I told the Guard.
"I'm sorry my lady. You can go in," he said opening the door.
I walked in and saw that they trio were surprised.
"Why are you here?" asked Uther.
"I'm Aurora Igraine Alden. I didn't want to accept it at first, but now I do, so I want my title," I replied.
I could almost see Uther smile at my statement. I knew Uther was maybe happy to see me, but not really.
"It is good to have you among my court. Please sit down and join us for breakfast," He stated motioning to a chair next to Morgana.
I curtsied and sat down next to Morgana who was smiling.
"I take it you and Arthur have met. I do hope you two will get along," commented Uther.
"I'm sure Arthur and I will get along just fine, won't we Arthur?" I stated looking at the prince.
"Of course," Replied Arthur.
"It'll be nice having another lady around to talk to. I hope we can become good friends, Aurora," said Morgana.
"I hope so too," I answered.
Breakfast passed in a peaceful chatter. As I sat there I made plans to torment Arthur as much as possible.
XXX
I walked across the square and passed prince Arthur and his gang walking through the lower town. Gaius had informed me that Aurora had left and went to claim her rightful place. My older sister was gone and I wouldn't see her again.
"How's your knee-walking coming along?" asked Arthur.
I kept walking.
"Aw, don't run away!"
I stopped.
"From you?" I asked.
"Thank god. I thought you were deaf as well as dumb."
"Look, I've told you're an ass," I turned to face Arthur. "I didn't realize you were a royal one. Oh, what are you going to do? Get your daddy's men to protect you?"
"I could take you apart with one blow," said Arthur.
"I could take you apart with less than that," I retorted.
"Are you sure?"
"Come on then," said one knight.
"Fight," said another.
I took off my jacket and Arthur laughs.
"Toying with him, then!" shouted one knight.
"Here you go," stated Arthur.
One of Arthur's knight hands him a mace, which he tosses at me. I didn't catch it. I picked it up and Arthur starts swinging his mace with ease. This was going to end badly.
XXX
I looked out the window of my new chambers. They were just down the hall from Arthur's chambers and next door to Morgana's. I looked out over the square and saw Arthur and Merlin fighting once more. I shook my head and turned away.
There was a knock on my door.
"Come in!" I said.
I looked to find Morgana and Gwen walking in with loads of dresses.
"We have to get you cleaned up and we need to get you some clothes," said Morgana.
"I did I have a feeling that today was going to be tiring," I replied.
We looked through the dresses and Gwen took measurements to create more dresses for me. I picked out a few gowns that I liked. I could tell Morgana was loving the fact that she had another person talk to about gowns and jewelry with.
"Any favorite colors that you have?" asked Gwen.
"Well I don't really do. Most the stuff I wore was rugs that mother found," I replied looking through the gowns that I choose, seeing a lot of blue and green color gowns. "I seem to have fondness to blues and greens. I do like simple things. I still have to adjust to all the royalty things."
"Don't worry too much. We'll help you along the way. Besides, I think in a month your grandparents and father are arriving to discuss a trade deal. You'll be reunited with your family," stated Morgana.
"Yeah but not with my mother," I said sadly.
I went back to the window and stared out. The only way I would see my mother in real life would be to go to Ibelle with my family when they returned home. That would mean one step further away from Merlin.
"I know, Princess Elizabeth is known for standing up for the druids and magic, she's banned from half the kingdoms."
Morgana got up and gave me a hug.
"I'm sure everything will turn out for best," she said. "I must go now, Rora. I'll see you later."
I nodded and watched her and Gwen leave. I was left alone to my thought.
XXX
I was back at Gaius's after I get away from Arthur and his gang once again.
"How could you be so foolish?!" shouted Gaius.
"He needed to be taught a lesson," I replied.
"Magic must be studied, mastered, and used for good! Not for idiotic pranks!"
"What is there to master? I could move objects like that before I could talk!"
"Then, by now, you should know how to control yourself!"
"I don't want to! If I can't use magic, what have I got?! I'm just a nobody, and I always will be. If I can't use magic, I might as well die."
I went up to my bed chamber. Gaius enters with a medical basket.
"Merlin? Sit up. Take your shirt off," he said with a sigh.
I remove my shirt, revealing the bruises.
"You don't know why I was born like this, do you?"
"No."
Gaius tends to my wounds.
"I'm not a monster, am I?"
He looks me in the eye.
"Don't ever think that."
"Then why am I like this? Please, I need to know why."
"Maybe there's someone with more knowledge than me."
"If you can't tell me, no one can."
Gaius pours potions into a tiny cup.
"Take this. It will help with the pain."
XXX
My father told me to take Lady Aurora out and show her around Camelot. He asked me to be nice to her and treat her with respect. I knocked on her door and heard a clattering noise from inside.
"For goodness sakes can't I get a little nap…" she started opening the door. "Oh, it's you, the man that has a nasty habit of beating up my former brother."
"Good afternoon to you too, I came to take you out around Camelot," I replied. "Former?"
She turned and looked at me.
"Yeah, things didn't go over well," she stated.
"I'm sorry to hear that. I'll wait outside for you to get clean up."
"Right," she said shutting the door in my face.
I had a feeling that Aurora was another Morgana. My life was turning into a living hell.
XXX
I quickly brushed my hair and started braiding it, so it wouldn't be in the way. I reopened the door to find Arthur leaning against the wall. He didn't look like he was having fun.
"All ready to go. Lead the way prat," I said.
"Good, we have to be back…What did you say?" he asked glaring at me.
"Lead the way," I replied back innocently.
"After that."
"Prat."
"Prat?"
"Yes, prat. A royal one at that."
He began to walk down the hall, muttering to himself. I giggled to myself, already started my torment of one Arthur Pendragon.
"Stop giggling like a child and come along!" he shouted.
"I am not a child Pendragon!" I shouted back.
"Well, you're acting like one, so I will treat you as such!"
I glared at the back of his head as I followed him through the castle.
XXX
I walked up some curved stairs to Morgana's chambers. I had seen Aurora out walking with Arthur when I was returning from collecting herbs. I could tell that she was giving Arthur a hard time, but she wouldn't look at me.
I entered the opened door and stare at Morgana as she walks behind her changing screen.
"You know, I've been thinking about Arthur. I wouldn't touch him with a lance pole. Pass me that dress, will you Gwen?" she said.
I pause uncertainly before fetching the dress.
"I mean, the man's a total jouster. And just because I'm the king's ward, that doesn't mean I have to accompany him to the feast, does it?"
"I place the gown on the screen.
"Well, does it?"
"Mm-Mmm," I said in a high pitched voice.
"If he wants me to go with him, then he should invite me, and he hasn't."
I try to figure my way out of this situation.
"So do you know what that means?"
"Mm-Mmm."
"Where are you?" she asked.
Morgana looks over the screen and I hold up one of her cloaks to hide my face.
"Here," I replied in a high pitched voice.
I peek through the neck of the cloak.
"It means I'm going by myself."
I put the cloak down and start to leave.
"I need some help with this fastening."
I turn around and stop.
"Gwen?"
"I'm here," said Gwen.
I spun around to face her.
"What are you doing here?" she mouthed.
I sighed in relief and motion that Morgana needs help with her dressing.
"Oh," she mouths again.
Gwen nods and I leave.
XXX
I walked slightly behind Arthur as he led me through the town. It was lovely and the people were friendly. I watched a group of children play and smiled as they giggled. I didn't realize I had stopped, until I felt someone tap my shoulder.
"Come, there much to see before we have to return to the castle," said Arthur.
"Of course," I replied following him once more.
We soon ended at the royal stables and were looking at the horse. I petted one its nose as nuzzled into my hands. It was a beautiful black stallion with a white mane.
"I'm surprise he's letting you pet him," stated Arthur.
"He's a beautiful horse. He must be a handful," I said.
"He's one of my father's prized horses. He's been here as long as I can remember. Father doesn't ride him much anymore, but Morgana rides him once a week."
I looked at the horse. Animals were a weakness of mine. I had nurse several birds back to health and other animals; baby deer and what not. Some of the villagers didn't like me for nursing these animals especially in the winter.
"I love animals. It's a weakness of mine. I would be utterly useless on a hunt," I said looking into the horses eyes.
I turned to look at Arthur who looked slightly confused.
"What? I eat meat, I just can't watch an animal be killed and then be asked to eat it."
"I see now."
I continued to pet the horse while chatting with Arthur.
"I'm sure if you want to ride her Morgana would let you," commented Arthur.
"I don't want to get attacked to her. I'll be leaving once my family comes. I would like to see my mother," I explained. "I'm not staying once they come."
"Oh…"
I finished petting the horse I walked away following Arthur back to the castle. We parted ways at my chambers and he continued onto his. I got out a light green dress and began to get ready for the night's celebrations. Morgana and Gwen came over to help me.
"Uther said that he's going to introduce you to the court tonight as well. He thinks is going to make it even merrier," stated Morgana as she was picking out matching jewelry.
"I find that doubtful," I said watching morgana's reaction. "The lords and ladies may not be happy to have the daughter of Elizabeth Alden in their kingdom."
"You could be right, but talking Uther out of things is like pulling teeth," she replied. "How was your afternoon with Arthur?"
"It went well. I called Arthur a prat and he called me a child. I think me and Arthur will get along just fine."
I finished getting ready and followed Morgana down to the great hall.
"Wait here until Uther calls for you," she said.
I stood outside the doors and waited for Uther to call me in.
XXX
I listen to the King as he spoke of Aurora in a fondness. She was telling the truth and I pushed her away and it would take me a great deal to get her to even forgive me for being an idiot.
"Today, I would love to introduce Lady Aurora Igraine Alden back into Camelot. I would like you all to give her a warm welcome," said Uther.
I turned to the doors to watch her step through them. Everyone clapped and I locked eyes with her for a second before she turned smiling at the king. I noticed that she fit the role of Lady and she carried herself different. She was much more beautiful than before.
I watched her take a bow and went over to sitting next to Morgana.
"They look great, don't they?" asked Gwen.
"Yeah," I replied.
"Some people are just born to be queens."
"No!"
Aurora as a queen, No not Aurora, she couldn't be a queen. I watched Aurora go to stand with Morgana. She seemed to hang out with Morgana a lot.
XXX
I sat down next to Morgana as Uther introduces the Lady Helen. Everyone applauds and the music starts to play. Uther and the court take their seats. Helen sings. I start to feel sleepy all of the sudden and I close my eyes for what I thought was a second. When I wake up I found myself covered in cobwebs.
I immediately freak out for the fact that I'm deathly scared of Spiders. I scream a bit, which goes unnoticed by Uther and Arthur.
"You saved my boy's life. A debt must be repaid," said Uther.
"Oh, well…" came Merlin's voice.
I looked up at my former brother.
"Don't be so modest. You shall be rewarded."
"No, honestly, you don't have to, your highness."
"No, absolutely. This merits something quite special.
Morgana helps get the cobwebs off of me and I start to calm that there wasn't actually a spider anywhere near me.
"Well…"
"You shall be rewarded a position in the royal household. You shall be Prince Arthur's manservant."
Everyone applauds.
"Father!" shouts Arthur.
He wasn't happy about this arrangement. So I wasn't going to be the only making Arthur's life miserable. I sat in a chair later that night reading a book that had been sent up, it was about my family and I greatly appreciated that someone let me have it. I was finally getting more answers.
XXX
Well, what do you think? Is it better or worse? I think I did a better job this go around.
Thanks for reading and I'll see you guys next Saturday.