The Sins of the Father
'I have a knights to bestow on tonight' Arthur whispered to me. 'And this means something to me how?' I asked helping Merlin put the washing away. 'I want you to be there by my side' he said. I smiled gently at him and nodded. 'Okay' I agreed kissing his cheek.
'Anyway you're not suppose to be doing that' he insisted throwing the washing to Merlin. 'Arthur' I protested taking it out of Merlin's hand. 'I still like working, I hate being lazy, sitting there and brushing my hair' I sighed. 'I know sweetheart, but that's how it is' Arthur shrugged.
'Come on Merlin, lets go hunting, seeing as how Shannon wants to work, she can polish my armour' Arthur grinned and pulled Merlin out the room. Damn I didn't want to work that much.
'Arise, Sir Vidor, Knight of Camelot. Arise Sir Caridoc, knight of Camelot' Uther knighted them. If that was me, I'd hate to have Uther's sword so close to my neck. 'You have been rewarded a great honour. With that honour comes great responsibilities' Uther told the newly appointed knights.
I stiffled my yawn tightly, pinching my arm to keep awake. It wasn't that I didn't like Uther, it was just that well he said the same thing over and over. Well I didn't like him but my reasons was very good, he killed my kind.
'From this day forth, you shall live by the Knight's Code, you have pledged yourself to conduct yourselves with nobility' yawn. 'Honour' another yawn. 'And respect' he finished and this time, my eyes dropped for a second or two. 'Your word is your sacred bond' Uther grinned pacing in front of them.
'You will find no one who better embodies these values than my son, Arthur. Follow his example and you will prove yourself worthy of the title' Uther said, clapping Arthur's shoulder. I didn't like how Uther put Arthur up so high. It would bring great disappointment when he fails. I knew for a fact he is going to one day fail, because you can't always keep winning.
There was screaming and sword clashing outside the door. 'Stay here' Arthur instructed drawing his sword. I saw the other knights do the same. Did he just think I would let him out there without magic? It could be anyone out there.
A knight entered then and Arthur met him in the middle. The knight took it's gauntlet off and through it at Arthur's feet. A challenge was made. If Arthur excepts it I swear to God! So what does the idiot do, he picks it up.
'I accept your challenge. If I am to face you in combat, do me the courtesy in revealing your identity' Arthur sneered. The knight removed her helmet, revealing long blond flowing locks. The knight was a girl! That made me smile, so us girls can fight. The court was shocked as she shook her hair out. 'My name is Morguase' she introduce. And that was where all our problems started from.
'I see Arthur is still going through with it then' Merlin sighed. I nodded shaking my head at his stupidness. 'Why?' Merlin asked confused. 'You know Arthur he won't back down from a challenge. Ugh stupid idiot' I growled flopping myself on the bed.
Arthur walked in and took his armour off. 'How was the meeting?' I asked from my place on the bed. 'Fine' he said pacing the room. The insane banging of a hammer as Merlin fixed Arthur's sword made me want to scream.
'Do you know why she challenged you?' Merlin questioned glancing up. 'I'm the King's son. Perhaps she believes she has to prove something' Arthur shrugged. 'Yeah but you don't really want to fight her' Merlin grinned. 'I have no choice' Arthur sighed, sitting down beside Merlin.
'If I refuse to fight her, I'm a coward. If I kill her, what am I then?' Arthur said resting his head in his hands. 'What is it?' Arthur asked sharply seeing Merlin's face. 'Well you never faced a woman in combat. What if you hesitate? She could use that to her advantage' Merlin murmured polishing his armour. 'You think she's going to defeat me?' Arthur interrogated.
'Merlin's just saying you need to be cautious, because it sounds like she is pretty handy with a sword' I told Arthur. 'Since when do you know anything about combat?' he grinned sitting by my side. He poked me and I kicked his head gently. 'Since the inncident when I had to pretend to be Lady Morgana' I smiled slightly.
'I need you to take a message to Morguase for me' Arthur instructed Merlin. Merlin turned to look at the Prince. 'If I'm seemed to do it, it will be viewed as cowardice' Arthur explained. 'You must persuade her to withdraw from the challenge' Arthur sighed. So much for girl power!
I can't believe I have to watch this! I have to watch my future husband fight. A fight that could possibly kill him. My Arthur walked out then to the cheers of his people. 'The fight is by the Knight's rules and to the death' Uther declared.
Arthur walked to Morguase and I placed myself into his mind. I could tell he didn't want to do this. 'I'm offering you a final chance to withdraw, I suggest you take it' he spoke gently to her. Morguase continued to stare at him, making him angry and upset. 'Then you leave me no choice' he walked away back to his side.
They took up their fighting positions as I held my breath. She was a very skilled knight, and it looked like she was winning Arthur. 'Come on Arthur' I breathed crossing my fingers. Then Arthur started to attack and knocked her sword out of her hands, slashing her arm on the process. I gasped, concerned for the girl.
Arthur allowed her to pick up her sword. It made me more nervous, he could have killed her then. Arthur had her pinned against a stand, and went to strike. However Morguase kicked his legs, making him fall to the ground. His helmet flew off across the stadium.
I stood up as she pressed a sword to his chest. ARTHUR! I saw Merlin wince at the broadcast I sent him by accident. Arthur lay back down, as I leaned even more over the side. She shook her helmet off but kept her sword to his chest. I was breathing heavily, as I watched anxiously for something to happen. Come on Arthur!
They talked and I was too scared of what I might find to enter their minds. Arthur lay still staring up at the dark angel. 'Please Arthur' I begged quietly.
Suddenly Morguase withdrew her sword and I breathed a sigh of relief. Arthur accepted the offered hand and let himself get pulled up. I cried from the relief that he was alive and safe.
'Arthur' I cried jumping into his arms. 'Shannon' he breathed stroking my hair. 'I thought she would kill you, I thought that you would leave me forever' I sobbed. 'Hey hush love, that will never happen' he soothed as I buried my face into his neck.
'It could have been worse' Merlin said pulling Arthur's armour off him. He was leaning forward, head in my lap. 'How could it be worse?' he snapped. 'You could be dead' Merlin stated. I let out a small cry and Arthur sighed sitting up. He gave Merlin a glare and pulled me into his lap.
'At least I wouldn't have to face everyone. I have never been this humiliated in my life' Arthur sighed as Merlin removed the chest guard. I snuggled into his chest, pressing a kiss to where the sword was. 'I was defeated by a girl' Arthur shook his head. 'It is actually quite funny when you think about it' Merlin chuckled.
We both turned to stare at him. I hit him over the head. Arthur nearly getting killed was funny I asked angrily. He wisely didn't reply. 'Or not' he disagreed. 'No, it was like you said, I was hindered because she was a woman' Arthur said. 'I was worried I was going to hurt her, so that's why she won' Arthur nodded.
'You didn't look hindered' Merlin muttered. Arthur glared at him, 'I'll stop talking now' he whispered. Both me and Arthur nodded, glad of the peace.
I lay in Arthur's bed tossing and turning. The images of his near death, haunted my sleep. I was scared that something might happen to him. I wanted him safe and I was gald of Merlin's prophecy. At least I have someone I can trust to protect Arthur.
I climbed out of bed and opened the window slightly. It creaked and I turned to see him already watching me. 'You've been tossing the blankets off me' he explained getting up.
'What's on your mind?' he asked gently kissing my temple. 'You and your near death' I whispered. He sighed and held me close. 'Shannon nothing happened, calm down sweetheart, I'll always protect you' he reassured. 'But who is going to protect you' I mumbled as he pulled me to bed. 'You need your rest' Arthur breathed tucking me into the sheets.
Both me and Arthur was going riding this morning. I only found out when a maid had left some clothes out for me. I was sat on the horse as Arthur pulled it slowly across the courtyard. We stopped at the gates leading to the fields. Morguase stood opposite us readying her horse.
'Congratulations on your victory' Arthur nodded. 'You are a very skilled swordsman... woman... swords... swords-woman' Arthur stuttered. I giggled and he pulled the reigns sharply and I nearly tumbled off. Morguase walked towards us and I held back my anger.
'You have a beautiful horse' she stated stroking his mane. Arthur looked at the horse and I watched as her eyes glowed gold. I gasped and she glanced up at me. 'I shall expect to see you three days hence' she told him. I was confused. 'How will I find you?' Arthur asked. 'When the time comes, you will know your way' she assured.
'Lady Shannon' she greeted and I nodded, 'Morguase' I replied as she walked away. 'If I don't show up, it might be because I don't know where I'm going' Arthur said sarcastically. 'The path you must follow will become clear to you' she said getting up on her horse.
'I should thank you for allowing me to retrieve your sword' she smiled looking over at us. 'I'm starting to wish I hadn't' Arthur told her. 'You showed yourself to be a man of honour, you inherited that trait from your mother' she informed him. Arthur's eyes shot up at her, 'you knew my mother?' he questioned. She gave a sad sort of smiled and rode off. 'Wait!' Arthur called staring after her.
Arthur just stared after her for a couple of minutes. 'Arthur come on' I whispered tugging on his shirt. 'Come lets go riding' he murmured climbing up behind me. I held onto the saddle as he galloped us into the forest.
'Is this really the best idea?' I asked as the trees loomed overhead. 'Yes, these are our forests' he said slowing down to a trot. 'Where are we going?' I asked leaning into his chest. 'Stop asking questions' he replied kissing my cheek.
We rode for 10 minutes more before coming to this beautiful clearing. 'Arthur it's amazing' I breathed as he helped me down. There was a small river on the left and all around lush green grass was growing. The flowers were a variety of colour, and the gentle wind sent their fragrances into the air. 'Thank you it's so beautiful' I whispered hugging him tightly.
We stayed there for a couple of hours, none of us talking. There was no need for us to talk. 'Arthur I love you' I said turning my head towards him. 'I love you too idiot' he smiled. I was going to tell him everything about me. 'Arthur I... I' I stuttered looking down. 'What is it Shannon you can tell me, I mean it's not like you're a sorceress' he laughed turning onto his stomach. I bit my lip, he wasn't ready to understand yet.
'I want to marry you soon, I don't want to wait until I'm 18' I breathed, looking up to the sky. Although it wasn't a total lie, it wasn't the truth either. 'Of course anything you wish' Arthur smiled like a mad man. I let him pull me in for a kiss and I returned it. But my mind was else where.
What if I had told him? I would have lost all of this. Both Merlin and Gauis could be punished as well as I. I hadn't thought any of this through. I just knew that one day he would need to be told the truth.
'I don't want to marry you right away, as we are both busy and it is a bit short notice. I just want to marry you in less than two years time' I sighed, resting my head in his chest. 'I understand Shannon, you have nothing to explain to me' he reassured drawing patterns on my stomach.
It was nearly dinner time when we got back. I headed to Uther with Arthur. 'Father I have some announcements to make' Arthur said, as his father was working. 'Oh yes' he said looking up briefly. I sat down by Uther and rubbed my tired eyes.
'Me and the Lady Shannon wish to move our wedding day forward' Arthur told him. 'What time would this be?' Uther asked putting down his quill. 'Next spring sire' I said looking up at Uther's wary face. 'Very well, I'll have someone sort out the arrangements with you' Uther nodded going back to his work.
'There is also another matter father' Arthur sighed. 'I have been issued a challenge by Morguase in 3 days time. I wish to ride out tomorrow morning' he stated. 'What is the nature of this challenge?' Uther questioned. 'She didn't say, but I gave her my word, no matter what' Arthur informed us.
I hit my heads with my hands. 'What?' I yelled, 'you should have never have done that' Uther protested. 'She had her sword to my chest, or have you both forgotten. I had no choice' he said through clenched teeth. I bowed my head and looked away from him. He did look guilty about saying that. I thought about making him happy just so I could shout at him.
'Morguase said she knew my mother' Arthur informed Uther. 'She told you this?' Uther frowned and Arthur nodded. Uther stood up and I bit my lip nervously. 'Obviously she's lying' he waved off, walking so we could only see his back. 'She's playing on your affections for your mother to lure you into a trap' Uther sighed turning around.
'That makes no sense. She spared my life' Arthur protested. 'This confirms my suspicions. I believe Morguase is an enchantress. How else could she have won?' Uther told us. 'I don't believe she was using magic' Arthur mumbled quietly. 'And you know that for certain?' the King shouted.
'Under no circumstances will you go and meet her, or accept the challenge' Uther declared. 'I gave her my word!' Arthur insisted storming over to his father. 'I don't care what was said to her, you will remain in Camelot!' Uther yelled. 'I want to hear what she knows about my mother' Arthur hissed. Just like any normal person would. 'She knows nothing. She is lying' Uther growled about two inches away from Arthur's face.
'You will not go to her I forbid it' Uther ordered as Arthur scoffed. 'So I break my word' he said upset. 'Escort my son to his chambers. Under no circumstances will he be allowed to leave' Uther instructed the guards. 'Uther' I cried standing up as Arthur laughed. 'Stay out of this Shannon, you're confining me to my chambers?' Arthur grinned. 'I am protecting you from your own foolishness' Uther shouted. Arthur glared and walked swiftly out the door.
'Uther he isn't a child anymore, you should let him do this. I think he will improve if he just knew about her' I said softly before walking out the door. The King needed to be told about his son. His son needed to be told about his mother.
'Merlin?' I called as I knocked on Morgana's door. I heard cussing and people giggling. 'Just a minute' Morgana yelled. 50 seconds later a disheveled Morgana answered the door. I raised my eyebrow at her, turning her pink.
'Have you seen Merlin Morgana?' I smirked. 'Nope sorry' she shurgged smiling slightly. 'Well if you do find him Morgana, be sure to tell him I'm looking for him. It's urgent' I nodded before walking away.
A good half an hour later, Merlin caught up with me. 'Hey sis' he greeted as I sat in the courtyard. 'Hey' I smiled patting the stone next to me. 'I wanted to ask you something Merlin' I sighed looking at the courtyard. 'What is it?' he questioned laying a hand on my shoulder.
'What do you know of my father?' I asked him. Merlin sighed and looked to the floor. 'I know we have the same father' he shrugged. I opened my aura eyes and saw he was hiding something. 'There's more Merlin, I know there is' I stated. 'Maybe you shouldn't do this' he whispered, hearing the wobble in my voice. 'No I want to' I insisted.
'I was only young when he came. I remember feeling like he was my father. There was rain pounding at the house, and wind howling. A storm which you are frightened of now. It was only that night that he visited. The night you were concieved' he breathed. 'I was trying to get to sleep and mother took him freely into her bed. It was like after everything she forgot about what he had done' he sighed.
'What did he look like?' I smiled, glad I was knowing something about my father. 'I don't really remember, it's all blurry but I remember he was beautiful' he smiled hugging me. 'I don't believe that' I grinned. 'You should, mother has never talked about him since, neither has he returned. Sometimes I wish he would, just so I could see him. Then I could introduce you to him' he whispered.
'So I was conceived on a stormy night, yet I hate storms' I laughed. He nodded glad on the changed of atmosphere. 'Oh Arthur is confined to his chambers, come on' I called dragging him.
Arthur held a small dagger in his hand and poking the wall. 'I've explained it to him' I sighed as Merlin put the basket down. 'Well he's got a point. You don't know what she might have asked you to do' Merlin said as he put the washing away. 'I gave her my word' Arthur growled pointing the dagger at him.
'So I take it we are going anyway' Merlin sighed. I smiled at him sympathetically. 'You're smarter than you look, grab some supplies and horses. Oh and Merlin-find a way to get me out of here' Arthur instructed. Merlin nodded and I went to the door. 'Where are you going?' Arthur asked. 'I am going outside' I stated. 'But I'm bored' he winked. 'Well I'm sure your hand is perfectly ready for it sire' I grinned. Merlin laughed as Arthur glared at us, 'bye Arthur' I called slamming the door.
'How's Arthur?' Gauis asked us as we came in. 'After being defeated by a girl in front of the whole of Camelot? I've seen him happier' Merlin smiled. 'You're enjoying this Merlin' I grinned. 'Maybe a little' he agreed. Gauis shook his head while I laughed.
RopeMerlin hissed into my mind. 'So Uncle Gauis what are you making?' I asked as he turned to expect the potion. 'Well it's a sleep draught for Morgana' he informed me. I nodded as I saw the rope come and slither towards Merlin. He jumped just as Gauis turned round. He shifted around a little. I stared at him in shock. I can't believe how ridiculous you look I said to him.
I shook my head and went back to helping Gauis. 'I'm just going to run some errands for Arthur' I said rushing out the door. I went to the kitchens and filled the bag up with food. 'What are you doing?' the chef asked. 'Um I'm just collecting some food for Arthur, he insists that he has to have the food now' I told him. The chef nodded and let me continue.
I packed the bag and then set off to the stables. 'Prepare three horses for me for tonight' I ordered. The stable boy nodded and went to prepare the horses for tonight. I had gotten everything ready apart from a way to get Arthur out. I just hoped that Merlin could do that part.
'I got the supplies' Merlin said as we both walked into the room. 'Merlin. Is it my imagination or are you getting fat?' Arthur asked pointing to Merlin's middle. Merlin lifted his tunic up, revealing the rope from earlier wrapped around him. I grinned, Merlin was actually quite clever when he put his mind to it.
I opened the window for Arthur, 'there are horses right by your windows' I told him quietly. 'Good, stay here' he told me. 'What! I am coming with you' I protested. 'No you are not' he shook his head. 'Yes I am' I smiled kissing his cheek.
'Are you sure you're strong enough to hold me?' Arthur asked warily, as Merlin tested his grip on the rope. 'Yeah, I'm stronger than I look' Merlin nodded quickly. Arthur climbed out of his window, looking at Merlin. He sighed and jumped off the ledge causing the rope to slip through Merlin's finger. I gripped the rope with my bare hands, ignoring the burns that it caused.
The rope eventually stopped, 'what are you doing? Lower the rope' Arthur hissed from outside. 'There is no more rope' Merlin shouted out the window. 'I don't know if I can hold on much longer' Merlin groaned, and I felt the same. 'Merlin do not let go of the rope' Arthur issued calmly. That was when Merlin let go of the rope, causing it to go further across my hands making me let go.
We both gasped as we heard a thud. Arthur was dead! I looked out the window scared of what I might find. Arthur was lying face first in a pile of horse poo. I errupted out laughing and Arthur turned to glare at us.
The ride was uncomfortable due to the fact that my hands were burnt. Arthur refused to talk to both of us. I pulled my reigns as a fox ran across my horses path. 'Shush' I soothed patting it's neck. I winced slightly and Merlin saw it.
'What's the matter?' he asked riding up beside me. Arthur turned to us and slowed down. 'It's nothing' I told him moving my hands away from his eyes. Arthur trotted over to us and grabbed my hands while Merlin grabbed my reigns.
Merlin shook his head as he saw them. 'You idiot, those look painful' he sighed just as Arthur pressed on it. 'Ow!' I yelped in pain. 'You should have told us, these need to be cleaned' Arthur ordered as he jumped off his horse. He helped me down, careful of not to touch my hands.
'Sit' Merlin instructed getting out a bag. 'Hold out your hands' Merlin said and began to pour water on them. I winced a bit but sighed at the coolness it brought. Merlin pulled a little bottle out the bag. 'What is that?' I asked warily. Arthur pulled me into his lap, 'it's to keep it cool and clean' he whispered in my ear.
I immediately shook my head, they would have to touch my hands to put it on. Arthur's legs locked around mine and his hands gripped my wrist. 'Hey!' I shouted as Merlin knelt in front of me. They both ignored me as I struggled. 'AHH' I shouted as Merlin went to touch it. 'I haven't even touched it yet Shannon' Merlin grinned before rubbing the salve on the burns. I hissed as the coolness made the burns numb.
'Come on up you go' Arthur cooed swinging me onto my horse. 'Thanks' I told them in gratitude. My hands were bandaged up and clean. We rode for a bit longer until we came to a fork in the road.
'Which way?' I asked as Arthur looked at the fork. 'Do you actually know where we're going?' Merlin teased. 'It's this way' Arthur said pointing left. 'Come on' Arthur insisted trying to get the horse to move in that direction. 'What's wrong with this horse? It's even dumber than you Merlin' Arthur shouted in frustration.
The horse moved along the opposite path to which Arthur had pointed. 'Where are you going? I thought you said it was left' Merlin yelled after him. 'It's not me, it's the horse' Arthur protested, trying to get the horse to move correctly. 'Morguase told me when the time comes, I will know my way' Arthur called back to us. 'So the horse knows where we are going. Great!' I muttered following Arthur.
'What if Morguase challenges you to do something you don't want to do?' I asked Arthur. 'I'm not expecting it to be easy. That's why it is called a challenge' he drawled trotting along the track. 'So you'd do anything she'd ask of you?' Merlin questioned. 'I gave her my word, it's a question of honour' Arthur told us. I rolled my eyes and shook my head at Merlin.
'What if she challenges you to do something less honourable than breaking your word?' I interrogated. 'Will you stop rabbiting on!' he sighed. 'We're in Odin's territory. We could be attacked at any second' Arthur said making me feel a hundred percent safer. Not!
'I just think it's strange to do something that you don't know what you are doing' Merlin breathed. 'One more word out of you Merlin, and you will be taking the challenge in my place' Arthur growled.
A arrow suddenly shot past Merlin and buried itself into my shoulder. I screamed, making Merlin's horse rear back and him falling off. Arthur grabbed his sword as I held onto my shoulder. A solider went to attack Merlin, but before I had time to mutter a spell, Arthur had thrown his sword and killed him.
I hissed and looked in the sky, only to see a man sitting in the tree, weapon in hand. I targetted my anger and pain at him and the weapon burned and he fell out the tree. 'Don't worry Merlin, I'll deal with this. You just sit there and make yourself comfortable' he gasped looking at my brother.
I bit my lip until that bled as Arthur pulled me off his horse. My hand was covered in my blood. 'Maybe we should turn back, the woods could be full of Odin's men' Merlin said picking me up. 'You can go back I won't stop you' he hissed, as he broke the arrow in my shoulder. The jolt had me crying in pain. 'You don't know anything about Morguase. Shannon is injured and we're following a horse' Merlin yelled. 'Morguase said she knew Arthur's mother' I gasped into Merlin's neck. 'Come on lets find somewhere we can treat her' Arthur sighed as he lifted me with Merlin onto my horse.
They had lit a fire, as Arthur lay me down. 'Urgh it hurts' I groaned. 'I know sweetheart, move your hand for a sec' he whispered stroking my hair. I shook my head; the pressure was helping me cope. 'Shannon, I need to get the arrow out' Arthur informed me.
'Come on sis' Merlin encouraged kneeling beside me. He had cloths in his hand. 'Bite down on this' Merlin instructed handing me a twig to put in my mouth. I let go slowly as Arthur gripped it. 'I'm going to count to 5 okay' Arthur breathed sitting on top of me. '1, 2,3' he said and pulled.
The pain was excruciating, and I was sure I bit the twig in half. I screamed trying to move away from them. 'That's it sweetheart, you're done' Merlin soothed, as he pressed the cloth on my arm. I panted for breath as they cleaned the wound and stitched it up.
I was leaning against Merlin next to the fire. 'What was your mother like?' I asked Arthur gently. 'I never knew her, she died before I opened my eyes' Arthur said poking the fire. 'I'm sorry' Merlin whispered.
'I barely know anything about her' he sighed. 'Can't you ask your father?' Merlin asked him, his arm wrapped round me. 'He refuses to talk about her. It must be too painful for him' he shrugged. Just like my father, my mother never talked about him. 'Sometimes, it's as though she never even existed' he whispered looking at us. 'I still have a sense of her' he smiled. 'As though she is a part of me' he told us.
'It's the same with my father, we never knew him' Merlin informed Arthur. 'My mother has barely spoken of him' I murmured sadly. 'I have this vague memory of him, it's probably just my immagination' Merlin laughed with no emotion, throwing a piece of wood into the fire. 'I'd give anything even for the vaguest of a memory' Arthur sighed.
'Is that why you are so determined, to find Morguase, to see if she knows anything about your mother?' I asked him. 'Is that so wrong?' he retorted. 'No' Merlin agreed smiling sadly. 'We should get some rest' Arthur ordered walking off.
'Tell me about your memory' I asked Merlin as soon as Arthur was gone. 'It was before you were born. Long ago, when I was still a child' he breathed kissing my forehead. 'He was sitting at the table, talking with mother. I ran in, feeling an intense pull, like the Old Religion pull' he explained.
'What happened then?' I questioned. 'He never said anything just kept staring at me, he was very beautiful for a man. He had dark hair which reached his shoulders. His eyes were an amazing blue, like yours and mine' he breathed. Merlin's voice was getting further away, as I fell asleep.
We travelled to a lake the next day. 'Seems your horse has brought us to a dead end' I remarked dryly. We looked around at the beautiful landscape. Arthur's horse suddenly started to move towards the water. 'Now where is he going?' Arthur called going with the flow. 'I think you are going to get wet' Merlin laughed. 'You don't say' Arthur sighed.
Arthur moved to the centre of the lake before we started after him. My new dress was going to get wet. What I do for destiny? By the time that we reached the waterfull, Arthur was long gone. So much for being a gentleman and waiting.
Behind the waterfull there was another land. There was trees and birds everywhere. Arthur stood a little bit away from this and was standing in front of a castle.
'Where are we?' Merlin asked. 'I don't know' Arthur shrugged riding to the front of the castle. 'If we weren't sure Morguase was a sorcerer, we can be certain of it now' I told them. 'That must be how she defeated me, she was using magic' Arthur smirked. I rolled my eyes at this thought. 'It didn't look like she was' Merlin frowned. 'And how would you know Merlin?' Arthur asked.
There was a arch in the wall that led to a courtyard. Arthur stupidly led the way through. The first thing I noticed was the axe and block. I glanced warily at it as Arthur picked it up. He swung it around and I winced. 'Now what?' he asked slightly irritated. 'Maybe we should ask the horse' I said dryly. Arthur put the axe on the block. 'There's no one here' Merlin said leading me down the stairs.
'You kept your promise' a voice from above us said. Morguase was slowly walking down the steps to us. She was dressed in sorceresses clothes. This was bad! 'What is the nature of this challenge you wish to set me?' Arthur asked, straight to the point.
Then Morguase said 6 dreadful words. 'Put your head on the block' she instructed picking up the axe. I felt sickened, instantly walking forwards to them. 'You gave me your word, that you would do anything I asked' she reminded. 'Arthur don't' I begged clutching onto his sleeve.
Arthur pressed a soft kiss to my lips. 'I love you' he breathed before walking to the block. 'What are you doing?' Merlin hissed. 'I won't let you do this!' I shouted. 'Stay out of this you two!' he cried placing his head on the block.
Morguase gave us a smirk and placed the blade on his neck softly. 'Arthur!' I sobbed as Merlin held me back. The axe was risen into the air. 'Let go of me Merlin' I growled pushing him away. He still continued to hold onto me. So I did a thing I had never ever done in my life. I attacked Merlin with my magic. Merlin stumbled back hitting the wall.
I ran towards Arthur, hoping to be in time to push the crazy bitch. Arthur would not die at her hands. It wasn't his destiny to die like this. Arthur tensed up readily for the blow. A mindless thought came into my head. There would be a lot of blood if he tensed up. Why that thought? Damn Gauis for telling me this stuff.
However there was no killing blows. The axe was placed at the block's side, no where near Arthur's precious neck. 'You have shown yourself, that you are truly a man of your word Arthur Pendragon' Morguase told us.
Arthur jumped up staring at her back. 'And for that I will grant you one wish' she whispered gently. 'Tell me what your heart desires' she instructed. Arthur walked up slowly to her.
'You said you knew my mother. Tell me everything you know about her' Arthur ordered. 'Perhaps you would like to see her?' she asked. 'I would like that more than anything' he replied. I only hoped that this was genuine, that Morguase wasn't tricking him. I shared a worried glance with Merlin as we followed after her.
We arrived at a courtyard over grown with ivy and wild flowers. Morguase was lighting candles on a table. 'Are you sure you want to do this?' Merlin asked Arthur. 'If you were granted the same oppurtunity, would you not wish to meet your father?' he breathed to us.
'Uther won't forgive you for collaborating with sorcerers' I said to him. 'What if my father's attitude towards magic is wrong?' Arthur asked us. 'You really believe that?' Merlin gasped. There was still hope. 'Prehaps it's not as simple as he wished we believed' he said, starting to doubt his father. 'Morguase is a sorcerer, she has caused us no harm. Surely not everyone who practices magic is evil?' he asked, as though he knew. Like he was begging us to tell him the truth.
I looked away, because I knew that I would tell him everything. I just couldn't do that on Merlin or Gauis. 'We don't actually know why she is doing this' Merlin protested quietly. 'It is time' Morguase announced glaring at Merlin.
Arthur took her outstretched hand. 'Close your eyes' she ordered and I faught back jealousy and worry. Any minute now my powers would escape and do something. Merlin wrapped a hand round my waist, he couldn't put his arm round my shoulder still.
Arthur went into knight mode, stance perfectly straight and a unemotional face. 'Aris mid min miclan mihte thin suna to helpe' she began. 'Hinder eft funda on thynse middageread thin suna' she chanted. The wind became slower and gentler, the very room seemed to slow down. This was powerful magic, it thrummed through my veins until I nearly cried from it's beauty.
A woman with long blonde hair with royal clothes, stood at the opposite end of the courtyard. She was calling to Arthur; 'mother?' he gasped. 'My son' she smiled rushing towards him. They embraced and it made me smile.
'When I last held you, you were a tiny baby' she remembered. 'I remember your eyes, you were staring up at me. Those first few moments I held you were the most precious of my life' she told him.
I looked to Merlin and saw he was slightly sad. I held his hand tighter we don't need him Merlin. We have each other I whispered into his head. Merlin smiled and tightened the hand in mine.
'I'm sorry' Arthur apologised. Why was he apologising for? 'You have nothing to be sorry for' she chuckled stroking his cheek. 'It was my birth that caused you to die' he sighed. 'No it was not your fault' she soothed. 'I cannot bear the thought that you died because of me' his voice broke when he said that. 'Do not think that' she instructed, pulling him in for another hug.
'It is your father who should carry the guilt for what happened' her tiny angelic voice whispered. 'What do you mean?' Arthur asked confused. 'It is not important. What matters is that you lived' she told him. 'Why should my father carry the guilt?' he asked again. 'It is better left in that past' she looked down, unable to meet his eyes.
'You cannot leave me with more questions, please' he pleaded. 'Your father... he was desperate for an heir. Without a son, the Pendragon dynasty would come to an end' she explained. Arthur looked heartbroken at those words. 'But I could not concieve' she muttered blushing.
In these times, it was difficult for a woman to admit that. Yet a dead woman has no fears, she was beautiful. Arthur was so like her. 'Then how was I born?' he questioned. 'Tell me' he smiled reaching for her hand. 'Your father betrayed me. He went to the sorceress Nimueh and asked for her help in conceiving a child' she informed him.
'You were born of magic' she breathed. I felt it then, the connection that would bind me and Arthur together. Our magic, his would never come through, but the current in his blood. It produced magic, Merlin nearly doubled over. His future more entwined with Arthur's than mine. I wouldn't say it didn't hurt because it did. But Merlin was there to help him, be his friend and adviser. I was his love.
'That's not true!' he protested. 'I'm sorry Arthur' she soothed. 'Your father has decieved you like he decieved me' she cried. 'To create a life, a life must be taken. Your father knew that' she told him. 'No!' he sobbed, 'he sacrificed my life so the dynasty could continue' she told him, tears rolling down her eyes. 'It makes you no less my son, nor me any less proud of you. Now I have seen you, I would have given my life willingly' she smiled.
'Do not let this knowledge change you' she warned. Well how could it not? Arthur would carry this around with him until his dying days.
There was a rush of wind and everything returned to normal. 'NO! Bring her back' Arthur yelled. 'I cannot, once the doorway has closed, it is closed forever' Morguase sighed. 'I am truly sorry you have learnt about your mother's fate this way' she said walking towards Arthur. 'I can only imagine how it must feel, to find out your father is responsible for your mother's death' Morguase whispered.
Morguase walked away with that as I stared at him. 'Are you alright?' Merlin asked. 'Arthur?' I questioned. 'Fetch the horses we are returning to Camelot' Arthur ordered and walked away. No doubt to clear his messed up head.
The ride to Camelot had never been so quick. Arthur jumped off his horse and I followed him. 'Go to Gauis' Arthur instructed. 'Like hell I will' I snapped following after him.
'Arthur why did you grab your sword?' I asked worriedly. 'To finish a job' he growled. 'Arthur think about what you are doing' I begged running to catch up with him. 'I have thought about it' he smiled ruthlessly. 'Arthur' I pleaded as he threw open the doors.
'Arthur? Where have you been, I've had search parties looking all over for you?' Uther asked smiling. Arthur looked scary, and I was his fiancee. 'Arthur?' Uther questioned as I lay a hand on Arthur's arm. 'I know what you did to my mother' he stated firmly. 'Leave us' Uther ordered Sir Leon.
I stayed where I was. 'That includes you Lady Shannon' Uther hissed at me. 'No, she witnesses what her father-in-law is like' Arthur snarled. 'What are you talking about?' Uther laughed, trying to ease the tension. 'You were so desperate for an heir, you was prepared to use magic' Arthur gulped, eyes fixed on Uther.
'Did Morguase tell you this? She's lying' he dismissed. 'My mother is dead because of your selfishness and arrogance' he said, straining himself not to get angry. 'Her blood is on your hands' Arthur said his voice a little higher. 'No that is not true. But Morguase would have you believe that' Uther shook his head.
'This is what fuels your hatred for those who practise magic. Rather than blame yourself for something you did, you blame them' Arthur accused. 'You would believe a sorcerer's lies over the word of your own father?' Uther questioned. 'I can only think that Morguase has enchanted you' Uther smiled.
'You have hunted her kind like, animals' Arthur spat. Yes Uther was rather good at hunting our kind. 'How many hundreds have you condemned to death to ease your guilt?' Arthur sneered. 'Those who practise magic will stop at nothing to destroy us. I have only done what is necessary to protect this kingdom' Uther reassured.
'You speak of honour and nobility. You are nothing but a hypocrite and a liar' Arthur yelled. 'Arthur please calm down. Think!' I begged hugging him tight to me. If Arthur was close to me, he wouldn't attack his father. The thought that was in his head now. 'I am your King and your father, you will show me some respect' Uther ordered.
'Shannon I swear to God if you don't let go of me, then I will hurt you. I don't want to do that' Arthur whispered softly to me. 'Arthur' I gasped, seeing a image of me flying into a wall. Arthur took my hands from his waist, his sword in his hand.
Once I was successfully untangled, Arthur walked towards his father. I held my breath; and Arthur being the idiot he is, through down his gauntlet, challenging his father. 'Have you lost your mind?' I cried. 'Pick it up' Arthur hissed. 'Arthur, I implore you to think about what you are doing' Uther advised. 'Pick. It. Up' he whispered dangerously. 'I will not fight you' Uther told him.
Arthur walked towards him, close enough to kill him from where he stood. 'If you choose not to defend yourself, then I will slay you down where you stand' Arthur threatened. 'You are my son, you will not strike an unarmed man' Uther protested. 'I no longer think of myself as your son' Arthur whispered. 'Then strike me down' Uther shrugged.
Arthur stared at him for a few moments, I thought he was bluffing. Then Arthur's sword tried to kill Uther. The King's sword instantly was drawn. 'I do not want to fight you' the King sighed. Arthur stalked his prey slowly, backing Uther.
Without warning he suddenly attacked. The clanging of swords echoed in my ear. 'ARTHUR!' I screamed trying to get into his brain. 'Arthur stop this' Uther begged. Arthur twisted into an attacking stance. Arthur was the ultimate killing machine, and he had his target.
They still faught as I tried in anyway to calm this down. It got too much when Uther nearly cut Arthur's neck. The axe floated into memory. 'Arthur please, listen to me' I shouted keeping a distance between us. I gathered up my power and sent peace into the room. It worked slightly, but Arthur was so mad. He wanted to kill and finish Uther off.
Somehow through all the fighting, Arthur got the upper hand. Knocking Uther's sword clean across the room and kicking him into the chair. I picked up the sword and groaned when it was heavy. Arthur held his sword to Uther's neck.
'ARTHUR DON'T!' both me and Merlin screamed as he ran into the room. 'I know you don't want to do this' Merlin told him. 'My mother is dead because of him' Arthur yelled. 'Killing your father won't bring her back' I mumbled coming to place a wary hand on his shoulder. 'You lost one parent, do you really want to loose another?' I asked softly. 'Listen to them Arthur' Uther ordered.
'Arthur please' Merlin begged. I could tell he was close to relenting, he was shaking with anger but fear. 'Put the sword down' Merlin sighed. The anger was back full force, 'you heard what my mother said' Arthur spat. 'After everything he has done, do you believe he has the right to live?' Arthur growled. 'He executes people who practise magic. Yet he has used it himself' Arthur shouted.
I looked at Merlin and I was scared at the answer. No. Uther didn't deserve to live, he didn't deserve life after what he had done. 'You have caused so much suffering and pain. And I can put an end to it' Arthur hissed through gritted teeth. 'Morguase is lying' Merlin shouted.
'She was an enchantress, she tricked you. It wasn't your mother it was an illusion' Merlin told him. I understood what he was doing. Arthur wasn't capable of holding the guilt of killing his own father, it would destroy him. 'Everything your mother said, those were Morguase's words' I added. 'You don't know that' he cried out, still gripping his sword.
'This has been her plan all along, to turn you against your father' Merlin explained. 'If you kill him, the kingdom will be destroyed. That is what she wants' Merlin shouted at the Prince. 'Listen to him, he speaks the truth' Uther encouraged. 'Swear to me it isn't true. You are not responsible for my mother's death. Give me your word' he screamed. 'I swear on my life. I loved your mother. There is not a day that passes that I wished she was alive' Uther promised. 'I could have never had done anything to hurt her' he whispered.
Arthur dropped to his knees, his sword fell out of his lased hand. He fell against the throne, out of breath with tears running down his face. 'My son. You mean more to me than anything' Uther whispered, stroking his son's hair. 'I'm sorry' Arthur gasped out, and it broke my heart to see him so venerable. 'You are not to blame' Uther waved off, pressing his lips to Arthur's crown.
'I am indebted to you Merlin. I have become confused' Arthur sighed staring out the window. 'It is once again clear to me that those who practise magic are dangerous and evil' Aruthr said. Merlin's face fell as did mine. We had been so close in to making him understand. Magic could be used for good.
I went with Merlin back to Gauis's chambers. I was surprised by when we saw Uther reading a book. All I wanted was to relax, not do the King's bidding's. 'My Lord' we both bowed and curtsied respectfully. However the differences was that I could look Uther in the eye, where Merlin had to bow his head.
'I wanted to thank you in person for your actions yesterday' the King informed us. 'You are a loyal servant to Arthur and fiancee. I am most grateful' Uther thanked. 'I was just doing my duty' Merlin shrugged. 'You have proved yourselves to be a trusted ally on the fight against magic' Uther explained.
I could have laughed, the irony was so funny. Uther would have a heart-attack to know he stood in a room with two sorcerers. 'Those who practise magic will seek to exploit Arthur's inexperience' Uther paced. My face flushed, Arthur was very experienced in some areas. Get your mind out of the gutter! I screamed to myself. 'You must be extra viligant' Uther advised.
'I'll keep my eyes peeled' Merlin nodded. 'I'm sure you will' he smiled turning to go. 'If you ever speak about what happened between me and Arthur to a living soul. I'll have you hanged' Uther threatened. 'Lady Shannon, are you joining us for dinner?' he asked turning his attention to me. 'Yes thank you' I nodded and let out a huge sigh of relief, he was finally gone.
'Is that Uther I just saw leaving?' Gauis asked rushing into the chambers. 'Yeah' I breathed unable to come up with a reasonable response. However my brother had no trouble. 'He just popped in to say hello' Merlin shrugged.
'What did he want?' he asked just as shocked. 'He wanted to thank us for being trusty allies in the fight against magic' I explained. 'How you two have managed to keep your heads, is a mystery to the greatest of minds' Gauis chuckled. Merlin flopped onto the chair and stared.
'Uther should be grateful, your life would be easier and safer if you had left him to die' Gauis sighed sitting down. 'You must have been tempted' Gauis said understandingly. 'Maybe for a moment, but Arthur would never have been able to forgive himself if he went through with it' I told him. 'I'm proud of the both of you' Gauis smiled.
Merlin grinned and leaned back. 'Arthur's thanked me, Uther's grateful and you're proud; I've never been this popular' Merlin joked. 'I'm almost certain it won't last' Gauis stated immediately. 'Just let me enjoy the moment' he said making us all laugh.
