AN: Hello all my faithful readers! I'm sorry about the wait! Things just got away from me it seems. I hope you all like this chapter and please review. This is a crucial chapter, so hearing your guys' feedback would be awesome. Thanks!
M: I'm so glad you liked it! I aim to please! I'm sorry for the delay on this chapter, but I hope you enjoy it and let me know what you thought. Thanks!
Ghg: Here's an update! Sorry it took so long.
BoleynGirl: So sorry about the wait! I also liked the scene between Arthur and Leon; and on that note, I can say with almost certainty that we will be seeing more of the knights' thoughts or opinions of Emerlyn and Arthur. I haven't written it yet, but I'm pretty sure I will be. The Uther thing can go either way, but I'm thinking that he actually doesn't spend all that much time with Arthur, besides for meetings or meals, so I don't think he'd notice the two's closeness when he was with the Arthur. That's just my thoughts. I hope you like this chapter!
Disclaimer: I own nothing related to Merlin.
Chapter 21: Unexpected Revelations
"I don't know how I'll ever repay you, My Lady."
"I told you to call me Emerlyn, Dacey. And it's no trouble, really. I'm just glad you got word to me before this got anymore infected." Emerlyn said as she finished wrapping a bandage around the woman's arm, which had been on the precipitous of a nasty septicity that would have led to either amputation or death.
"E-Emerlyn." The woman whispered, unsure how she felt about being so informal with a High Priestess. She'd been lucky her son had been able to find the witch in the city of Camelot, or else she feared she'd be without her arm, or worse, leave her child motherless. The gods were surely looking down on her that day.
"Alright, you're set. When you get back to your camp, have them rewrap this daily to keep it clean. These should help stave off an infection." The raven haired beauty said as she handed the druid a small pouch that was full of the same herbs she'd smeared onto the wound.
"Thank you so much, My-Emerlyn. I don't know what I've had done without you. It is a few leagues yet to the settlement and I doubt I'd have made it otherwise."
"Of course, it's no trouble. I'm just pleased I was able to help. I—"
"Mama, look! A horse!" The two women looked over to see the smoke of a smoldering fire in the shape of a horse before it dissipated.
"Glen get over here! You know not to do that!" Dacey said angrily, her eyes darting around the woods in fright. They were much too close to Camelot for her liking and she feared someone had seen. The small boy's shoulders drooped as he stepped next to his mother, hating that he wasn't ever able to do anything outside camp.
"Go now. Someone might have seen that. You must be quick." Emerlyn said urgently, knowing there were patrolling guards and the random citizen needing firewood out and about. She helped Dacey up and shoved their pacts at them, her ears hearing the rustling of leaves under fast paced feet.
"Go!" She whispered, the two quickly disappearing into the foliage of the forest. Emerlyn just got a light smoke screen up when a woman came barreling towards her, eyes wild and panting.
"Did you see it? The smoke? Did you see it?" The woman asked frantically as she clutched Emerlyn's jacket tightly in her fist. The witch silently cursed.
"No, I saw nothing." She tried to deny, her chest tightening in fear.
"Are you blind? You were right here! It was magic I tell you! There's sorcery here! We must tell the king!" The woman was off before she could even get her tongue to form words, her brain trying to understand what in the blazes had just happened.
"No, wait!" She tried to call back but the woman was gone.
"Damn it!"
She kicked a fallen log in frustration before sighing, knowing she needed to be there to see what exactly happened. She was just glad that the mother and child had been able to escape before the woman had seen them, as she had little doubt they'd both be executed for being druids if they were caught.
It was times like this that she had to remind herself that Arthur wasn't ready to be king and that if his father was killed by magic he'd turn against it completely, or else she'd just let the tyrant die already. But that was not to be, so now the witch had to find a way to convince everyone that the woman had been seeing things. Easy right?
Yeah, her luck wasn't that good.
/*/
Emerlyn had to shove her hands in her jacket pockets as her and Gaius made their way into the throne room, where some nobles were already gathered, as the petitioning for favors had just ended. Her eyes flicked up to spy Arthur leaning against the back of his throne while Morgana sat in hers in a pretty blue gown that the witch would have admired if the situation wasn't so dire.
The guards led the woman forward as the king stood, his face set in an expression of anger, making Emerlyn's insides squirm. She wasn't fearful for herself, as she had no doubt she'd never actually be killed because she'd escape before that happened. No, she was afraid the woman had seen Dacey and Glen and a search party would be sent out for them. Emerlyn would never be able to live with herself if they were murdered just because Uther was a dictatorial king that cared not for anyone save Arthur and Morgana.
"What is it you claim to have seen?" Uther's voice boomed over the large room.
"Magic, my Lord. In the fire." The woman's voice shook as she addressed her king, as she'd never even been in spitting distance of him before now.
"It was sorcery you say? You're certain of it?" The man demanded, his mind already buzzing with the possibilities of sorcerers being this close to Camelot.
"Yes, Sire." She nodded.
"And you swear this before your king?"
Emerlyn swallowed against the lump that'd formed in her throat, eyes meeting those of Gaius before looking away, spying Arthur giving her an unreadable expression. She clenched her hands into fists and took a deep breath, needing to calm herself before she aroused suspicion herself.
"I swear it." Arthur looked away from his servant to regard the woman, trying to calm his own nerves.
"Perhaps your eyes deceived you. A trick of the light." He tried to reason, not missing the hopeful look Emerlyn got before she schooled her face back into indifference.
"The smoke was alive I tell you. I feared for my life." The woman said shakily, making the witch roll her eyes. Even though this situation was indeed troubling, it was annoying how much people didn't know about magic and that they just automatically thought the caster would kill them. Idiots.
"I thank you for bringing this to my attention. Your loyalty will not go un-rewarded." Uther said with a slight nod.
"Thank you, Sire." She gave a small bow before the guard led her away.
"It cannot continue." Uther sighed heavily. Emerlyn bit her lip, praying the family had gotten far from the city by now.
"I will hunt down those responsible, father. I promise they will be punished." Arthur said, eyes looking away from where his servant was standing, gut clenching at the idea of her being discovered.
"No. Stronger methods are called for. Send for the Witchfinder." Uther called out, making the small audience gasp in surprise.
Emerlyn's eyes widened a little before she met Morgana's, the seer's terror quite clear on her face. This was not good, even if she didn't know who this witchfinder was. If they caused this reaction, then it was certainly bad.
"Sire, is it necessary to resort to such measures?" Gaius questioned, his old heart beginning to pound in fear for his charge.
"The Witchfinder is a trusted ally, Gaius. His help will be invaluable." The king said firmly.
"Of course." Gaius gave a slight nod, knowing there would be no talking Uther out of this.
"You're all dismissed." Uther said before sweeping from the room, needing to speak with his council to prepare for the witchfinder's arrival. The nobles began to depart, but before Emerlyn and Gaius could take more than a step, Arthur's sharp voice rang out.
"My chambers need cleaning. Now." Emerlyn's eyes widened a little at the fury in the prince's eyes as he moved past her, wondering why he was so bent out of shape. It wasn't like he was the one that was going to have to fool a witchfinder.
"Uh, I'll see you later." She darted away before her equally furious guardian could say anything, using the servant passageways to get up to Arthur's room before him.
Emerlyn hurried into the prince's chambers, not sure why he seemed so upset, but figuring it was best to have everything gathered up before he arrived. But besides a used goblet and water pitcher, there wasn't anything wrong with the room, as he hadn't had time to destroy it like he normally did. Not sure what to do with herself, the witch straightened the made bed as she waited.
"How could you be so stupid?" Arthur demanded angrily as he banged through the doors, turning to slam them shut before he turned glaring blue eyes on her.
"W-what are you talking about?" Emerlyn asked in confusion as she moved to the table, using one of the chairs to lean against. Arthur huffed at her, steam nearly coming out of his ears as he strode away from the door so he could grab her arm and pull her towards his desk, which was as far away from the door as he could get.
"How could you let someone see you?" He asked quietly, the rage barely restrained as he gave her a light shake, as if wishing to shake some sense into her.
"Arthur, what in the heavens are you talking about?" Emerlyn asked again, shaking her head as she tried to take a step back, but his grip on her shoulders was too strong.
"I'm talking about you conjuring a horse in the smoke, you idiot! How could you be so stupid?" The witch's eyes widened as fear filled her before she was able to get a handle on herself.
"I didn't conjuring anything, Arthur. Magic is illegal, remember?" She said sarcastically, making his scowl turn severe as fire nearly sparked from his eyes.
"When are you going to start being honest with me?" He nearly shouted, spinning away from her to pace towards the window, trying to rein his temper in before he broke something. All the pent up frustration and hurt feelings that he'd been pushing down since her revelation were bubbling up inside, threatening to consume him.
"I am telling you the truth! I didn't do anything! That woman was seeing things. There wasn't anything in the smoke. Arthur!" She threw her hands up, her own annoyance surfacing as he refused to look at her.
"She had to have seen something to come to the king!" Arthur retorted.
"I don't know why you think I would have had something to do with it, if she did! I don't practice magic. What has gotten into you?" She questioned in irritation, glaring at his back. Arthur suddenly spun around to face her, his expression one she couldn't quite place.
"Because I know about you! I know you're a witch and you do practice magic." Emerlyn gasped and took a shocked step back, her eyes wide with fright.
"W-what?"
"You told me, remember?" He bit out, arms crossing over his broad chest. The witch's breath began to hitch as panic filled her, unsure what was going on and how she'd gotten there.
"I—you never…" Her brain wouldn't work properly, as all it did was cycle his words over and over, her chest tightening painfully as she struggled to breathe.
"Emerlyn?" His anger dissipated as he stepped towards her, concerned as her chest began to heave and her hands shook. She started shaking as her lungs fought for air, her heart pounding a fast crescendo against her ribs, her vision going blurry.
"I'm gonna…you weren't supposed…what am I gonna do…" She trembled as her mind provided the most likely end result of this: her being executed.
"You need to calm down." Arthur said, reaching out to grasp her arms gently, her panicked eyes shooting to his.
"He's going to kill me." She whispered between shudders, her stomach beginning to cramp as tears spilled down her cheeks and clung to her dark lashes, her terror shining brightly in her blue eyes. The prince's grip on her tightened as he brought her into his chest, wrapping an arm around her.
"Don't you think I'd have already told my father if I was going to?" He asked, resting his cheek against the top of her head.
"W-What?" Pulling back, she gave him a confused look as she continued to shake, her body trying to seep in his warmth.
"I've known for months now and haven't breathed a word. I know what would happen if I did. And I can't lose you." He told her, pleased when she seemed to be able to take longer, deeper breathes as she stared up into his eyes.
"You never said anything."
"Because I had to be sure you meant what you said. And you never trusted me enough to be honest with me. For more than a year, you've been lying to me; since the day we met." The hurt was clear in his voice and Emerlyn's eyes dropped, hating she'd upset him. Rising quivering hands up to clench in his tunic, the raven haired beauty took a deep breath before she looked back up at him.
"I never wanted to put you in the position where you had to choose between me and your father."
"Did you really think I'd let you be executed?" Biting her lip, she gave a small shrug.
"I don't know, Arthur. You've always seemed to agree with Uther on magic and its users; I could never be sure what you'd do. So I just didn't say anything so you wouldn't have to decide."
"That wasn't your choice to make, Emerlyn. I…I love you and I wouldn't let anything happen to you. Ever." His heart raced at the admission, not knowing where he'd gotten the courage to actually say the words. He hadn't grown up hearing the words often and it was so strange to actually voice them.
"R-Really?" Her eyes were huge as she stared up at him in wonder, mouth slightly agape. Clearing his throat, Arthur tried to remain calm as his insides twisted around, not used to this feeling.
"Yes." He gave a curt nod, uncomfortable with being so open and emotional, even if it was Emerlyn. He'd only admitted his feelings for her to himself, so it was unnerving to be so honest with her, especially when he wasn't sure if she shared those feelings or not.
Breaking into a bright smile, the witch threw her arms around his neck and leaned up on her tiptoes, crashing their mouths together. The kiss was a hard press of lips against lips before it softened, Arthur tilting her head for a better angle, his tongue sweeping against her bottom lip.
Sighing happily, she allowed him access as her hands twisted in his hair, fingers stroking the soft strands as her tongue slid against his in a sensual caress. Arthur's hands slid down until they reached her hips, pulling her against him until they were flush.
"There's no way I'd be able to put up with your idiocy if I didn't." Arthur mumbled when they broke apart, being rewarded with a watery laugh as Emerlyn gripped his tunic in her fists
"I love you too." She said quietly, tilting her head back so she could see his face, not missing how he relaxed slightly against her. Arthur pressed his forehead against hers for a moment before stepping back, breaking contact with her as his arms crossed over his chest.
"If you didn't conjure the smoke, then who did?" He questioned, giving her the time to wipe at her cheeks and get her composure back.
"I—"
"No more lies, Emerlyn. Ever. Promise me." He interrupted her when he heard the slight waver in her voice, which he'd come to recognize as the precursor for a lie or excuse. He glared down at her upturned face, his gaze letting her know he was dead serious.
"Arthur…I can't." Emerlyn stepped forward, her eyes pleading. But the prince moved back, his face twisting in hurt and anger.
"Have I not proved that you can trust me? I have kept your secret! I have accepted your lies have waited for you to come to me with the truth. What more do I have to do?" He demanded, the pain he'd felt with every new lie seeping into his voice. The raven haired beauty shut her eyes, hating that she'd so obviously been hurting him without even knowing, without meaning to.
"There is so much you don't know, Arthur. And some of those things aren't my secrets to tell." She tried to explain, reaching out to him, her fingers curling around his forearm.
"So there are others like you? In Camelot?" He arched a brow, somehow not as surprised as he thought he should be.
"No. Well, there isn't anyone like me, exactly. But there are others. And if I betray their confidence, they'll never trust me again." The prince sighed heavily and dropped his arms, wondering how this day had come to this.
"Are they a danger to Camelot or its people?"
"No. I would never protect someone who wished to do others harm. Surely you must know that."
"Sometimes I don't know what to believe anymore." He said quietly, his back turning to her again as he looked out the window. Taking a deep breath, Emerlyn stepped forward, wrapping her arms around his stomach and resting her chin on his shoulder, her body pressed completely against his.
"I've never done anything to put your or Camelot in danger, Arthur. Nor would I help anyone who wanted to. All I've ever done is try to protect you and keep your, our, people safe." Arthur's hands came up to rest on top of hers, where they rested against his stomach.
"Why didn't you ever trust me?" His question was barely more than a whisper, the normally arrogant man replaced by one who'd been forced to question everything he'd once believed in.
"I…I know how much you seek your father's approval and love. I never wanted to be the reason for you to have to lie to him, to go against him. And your reactions to magical attacks made me wary, not sure if you were ready to learn the truth, no matter how you felt about me. I'm sorry. I was scared." She answered, just as softly as their fingers interlaced.
"Would you have ever told me?"
"I think so. When you'd come to see there were more than just evil sorcerers in the world. I hated lying to you, Arthur. You might not believe me, but I've wanted to tell you for a long time. I just never imagined you'd take it this easily." Arthur gave a small laugh and shook his head.
"I've had months to get used to the idea. I may have also watched you closely when you returned to make sure you remained true to your word about being an ally to Camelot."
"You spied on me?" She asked, her lips twitching into a smirk.
"Well you weren't going to be honest with me, so I had to see for myself."
"You realized you could still trust me." She stated, nose skimming the side of his neck as she gave him a squeeze. Turning, Arthur brought his hands up to cup her cheeks, titling her face up.
"You've never given me reason to doubt you and I just needed the reminder. You've saved my life more times than I even know, haven't you." She gave a small shrug at his question, her cheeks flushing a little as his thumbs rubbed over them.
"It's part of the job. Although I don't want to hurt your pride, so we'll keep the actual number a secret." Arthur gave a small smile and shook his head, leaning down to press his lips to hers for a light, brief kiss before stepping away.
"Are you going to tell me about the stuff I don't know about?"
"If you really want to know. But not anything that would put someone else in danger." She said firmly.
"If you say they mean no one any harm, than I believe you. You can trust me." He said a little exasperatingly, giving a huff of irritation.
"I know. But it has to be the other's decision if they tell you, since it's their secret. Don't ask me to betray their trust, Arthur. Please." He met her eyes, noting the seriousness in her cerulean depths.
"Fine. But once we handle this witchfinder, I want to know about everything that involves you. No more secrets." Stepping back into his personal space, Emerlyn smiled up at him.
"No more secrets. I promise." She said before laying her head against his chest, sighing in contentment when his arms came up to wrap around her. One of Arthur's hands rested against her back, keeping her pressed closely to him, while the other tugged on the ribbon tying her braid together, working it loose until it fell to the floor and he could free the plaited locks.
Emerlyn didn't protest as her hair loosened, still trying to process everything. It'd never occurred to her that Arthur would've remembered her confession or accepted her so completely. She'd been too afraid of him choosing his father over her that she'd just accepted her secret would have to remain just that for years to come.
To know that he already knew and had kept her secret from his father, without her even knowing about it, made her head spin. She felt lighter somehow, as if a weight had been lifted off her shoulders now that she no longer had to lie to the man she loved. She felt freer than she had in months and was thankful that she could finally be her true self around Arthur.
/*/
"What are we going to do?" Morgana asked, panicked, when Emerlyn entered her room, Gwen shutting the door behind her to give them some privacy. The seer still hadn't told the servant about her abilities, wanting to be further along in her training before she risked telling anyone besides Emerlyn.
"Well, for starters, we're not going to panic. We have to stay calm and collected and not let this witchfinder know we're afraid." The witch said, stopping Morgana's pacing by gripping her arms gently.
"He's going to find out about me. I'll be executed!" She nearly wailed, her heart clenching tightly in her chest as her stomach rolled in fear.
"No, he's not. Morgana, you must be strong. I would never let you be killed. You know that, don't you?" She arched a brow, waiting until the other dark-haired beauty nodded before releasing her.
"As long as you remember that you're no alone, you'll be fine. He's going to try to scare people into confessing, even if they're innocent. You just have to think of me and remember that we're in this together."
"Yes. You're right. I'm sorry for panicking, I just…"
"It's alright, Morgana. I'm not too thrilled about the witchfinder coming here either. We're going to have to be extra careful. Which is why I wanted to get that book back from you. I'm going to hide everything so that it won't be found." Morgana nodded and walked over to her bed, kneeling down so she could unlatch the hidden book from underneath her bed.
"Are you sure we'll be safe?" Her voice waivered a little, not because she didn't have faith in her friend, but because she was scared of her secret being found out.
"I'm sure. And even if something happens, Arthur and I won't let them hurt you. I swear."
"Arthur?"
"Oh, yeah. He uh…he knows about me. Apparently he's known for months and hasn't said anything." Emerlyn revealed, the surprise still clear in her voice.
"He…he does? He hasn't said anything to the king or me." The witch nodded as she hid the book behind her back, under her tunic.
"Yeah. I was really surprised too. Still am, actually. But he knows I would never endanger Camelot or its people. He trusts me."
"I never thought I'd see the day Arthur Pendragon so blatantly went against his father." Morgana said with a shake of the head.
"He's not the same spoiled prince we used to know, Morgana. He's grown into a remarkable man. Don't tell him I said that though. I don't need his ego getting any bigger." The two laughed.
"Of course. That would just be tragic."
"I'm going to go hide this and then I need to speak with Gaius. I have a feeling he's going to be none too happy with me about all of this." Emerlyn said and headed for the door.
"Emerlyn, did you conjure the dancing smoke?"
"No. A young druid boy did, but thankfully the woman didn't see him or his mother. I can only hope that they got far enough away from the city that the witchfinder won't stumble onto them." Emerlyn replied with a hopeful look before she waved and exited the room, needing to get the book and her other magical items hidden away.
/*/
"Emerlyn—"
"Please don't yell at me. I didn't cast the enchantment, Gaius. It was the son of the druid I treated this morning and I realize how bad this can get." The witch said tiredly as she made it into their chambers, her body and mind equally exhausted. It was hard to believe that it was only mid-afternoon, as she'd been put through the wringer and all she wanted to do was slump over.
"You must hide your things; hide anything connected to sorcery." The physician said, reining in his temper, the weariness of his ward evident.
"Yeah, I know. That's what I'm doing now." She nodded, pulling out the book she'd given Morgana from behind her back as her tired legs moved her towards her room.
"The man that Uther has sent for, I know him." The old man revealed, making her perk up with interest.
"Really? You know the witchfinder?"
"Some know him by that name. I know him as Aredian. He is a force to be reckoned with." Gaius said seriously.
"I think I can handle one man. I am a High Priestess, after all." She rolled her eyes, but the severe expression on her guardian's face never lessened.
"Be on your guard, Emerlyn. He'll stop at nothing to find those guilty." Sighing, the raven haired beauty nodded.
"I'll be careful. And I've warned Morgana, so hopefully she won't give anything away." Emerlyn said as she started back towards her room.
"I still do not understand why you've started training her. If Uther were ever to find out…" He trailed off, not needing to put to words what they both knew would happen.
"She needs to be trained Gaius, now before her fear and hate for Uther infects her heart. She's too good of a person to just be cast aside because there's the chance for discovery. If left to her own, there's no telling what she'd do." Emerlyn shrugged, disappearing up the stairs.
She grabbed the hidden satchel that held her magical items and texts, placing the tome from Morgana back inside before grabbing the Sidhe staff. Pulling her amulet from the outside pocket of the bag, she clasped it around her neck before returning to the main chamber, where Gaius was now seated in front of his potions.
"Where will you hide your things? It must be somewhere they'll never think to check."
"Oh I know the perfect place."
Emerlyn gave a small smile and squeezed his shoulder to reassure him before she activated the pendant, vanishing from sight. She knew she needed to tell him that Arthur knew her secret, but she really didn't want a lecture right then; plus, she really did need to get these things hidden away. And if she used the excuse to put off the lecture she was sure to get, then that was just her little secret.
/*/
After placing her items down in the cavern that held the Great Dragon, who'd also given her a warning of caution about the man Uther had sent for, Emerlyn made her way back to Arthur's chambers, grabbing his dinner on her way. Her movements were sluggish, as the day had worn her down to a fatigued state she hadn't felt in a while.
Pushing open his door, the servant made her way into the quiet room, not surprised the prince wasn't there yet. He was most likely with his father, making plans for Aredian's arrival, giving her time to pick up the room and get his bed turned down.
Knowing Arthur would most likely want to question her more once he arrived, Emerlyn grabbed a small drumstick off his plate and ate it quickly, figuring she wouldn't get dinner for a while to come. Once done she tossed it into the fire before sitting at the table, resting her face against her palm, her eyes closing in exhaustion. She'd just let her eyes rest a while.
/*/
Arthur strode into the room loudly, his irritation level piqued after the last two hours he'd spent with the king, making sure everything was set up for the witchfinder's arrival. Every time his father made a remark about how those practicing sorcery would be found and punished, all he could picture was Emerlyn on the platform, her onyx lock spilling over the block as the executioner prepared to swing. By the end of the night he was at his wits end and gladly left his father's side, barely able to look at the man who wouldn't hesitate to kill the woman he loved.
The prince stopped short when he saw the slumped figure at his table, the tightness in his chest easing at the sight. Emerlyn was alive and he would do everything in his power to keep her that way, even if that meant going against the king. He loved his father, but he loved Emerlyn too, and he wasn't willing to lose either of them.
Quietly closing and locking the door, Arthur made quick work of removing his clothes until he was down to his underpants, throwing the clothes into the basket his servant had already filled with dirty clothes. Moving over to the table, he tried to be quiet as he grabbed up some chicken, not sure why he didn't want to wake her.
Sure, he had a lot of questions, but even in the uncomfortable position, Emerlyn looked so serene. Her face was relaxed and there was no trace of the weariness she wore most days, which he hoped would now dissipate some since she knew he was aware of her secret. She was the most beautiful woman he'd ever seen.
Washing the meat down with some water, Arthur ignored the rest of the food on the plate and moved to Emerlyn's side. Gently, so as not to startle her, he scooped her out of the chair, the witch's body jerking as her eyes flew open, relaxing only when she saw his face.
"I didn't mean to fall asleep." She mumbled as he carried her over to his bed, lowering her down onto the sheets, loving how her hair spread out across the pillow, inviting his hands to run through them. Emerlyn kicked off her shoes and shimmed out of her pants, leaving her tunic on as it was too much trouble to remove.
"It's been a long day. We're both tired." He shrugged and slid in next to her, pulling the duvet up over them as she turned so she was on her side, facing him.
"I shouldn't be here." She said softly as his hand came up to stroke her cheek and down her neck.
"We'll simply need to wake up early." Arthur gave a careless shrug as his fingers ran over her soft skin, earning a sigh.
"You mean I'll have to wake up early." At her retort, the prince's lips twitched into a smirk as he pulled her closer to him, their legs intertwining as her head came to rest against his chest.
"Well, I am in my own bed. It wouldn't make sense for me to have to suffer just because you can't sleep without me." Emerlyn gave a snort and lightly pinched his side, making Arthur chuckle lowly.
"You mean you can't sleep without me." She retorted before giving a sigh, snuggling against him as his fingers worked through her hair, the motion soothing.
"Go to sleep." Arthur said, lips still stretched into a smile as he held her to him, enjoying times like this. No matter how crazy their lives got, they always had these little moments to just be together, the rest of the world falling away. They were together and that's all that mattered. At least until morning.
/*/
The witchfinder, or Aredian, arrived the next night, sending Morgana into a panic attack that had Gwen coming to the conclusion that her suspicions about the noble had been correct. Morgana had some type of magic and was scared of being discovered; even though the maidservant was sure Emerlyn would keep her protected. Their late night meetings and secret conversations made more sense now that she had more definite proof that her hunch had been right.
According to Arthur, who'd greeted the man with his father the night he'd arrived, Aredian was a man with a dramatic air and a penchant for thinking he knew best. He was terrified he'd discover Emerlyn and had been upset when he'd refused the knights help in his search, as the prince had wanted to keep him in his sights.
All he could do was put his faith in his servant and try to keep her from being found out. The witch didn't seem too concerned about herself though, as she knew the man couldn't break her, no matter what he tried. She was a High Priestess of the Old Religion and would not let this witchfinder get the best of her.
/*/
"Gaius, isn't it?" The witch and physician turned at the question, as they'd been heading back to their citadel after checking on Gaius's patients. Emerlyn forced herself to keep a relaxed pose, figuring this stranger was the feared Aredian.
"I never forget a face." The man stepped closer to them, his eyes glinting with malice.
"Nor I, Aredian." Gaius responded with a scowl.
"A physician now, I hear? You always did have a thirst for knowledge." There was no mistaking the distaste or suspicion in his voice, making her dislike for him grow.
"Scientific knowledge."
"Of course." Aredian's lips tightened before his gaze turned towards her, that glint never leaving his eyes. Emerlyn stood straighter, not willing to let this man think she feared him.
"My assistant, Emerlyn." Gaius said after a moment, not liking the look on his face.
"Emerlyn." She did not like the way he said her name, as if testing to see how it felt on his tongue.
"May your investigation prove fruitful, Aredian. However, you'll have to excuse us, we have work to do." The physician commented before turning to go, not wanting his ward anywhere near him.
"Naturally. Emerlyn." Taking a breath so she didn't show her irritation, the witch turned back to meet his gaze.
"I have a few questions I would like you to answer. Please be at my chambers in an hour." Giving a slight nod, Emerlyn turned back away from him, her and Gaius continuing down the street.
"Well he's just delightful." She murmured once they were out of ear shot, getting an aggravated look from her guardian.
"Please be on your guard Emerlyn. Even though you don't see Aredian as a threat, he is highly respected for getting results, no matter the methods he has to use. There's no telling what he'll do with the payment the king has promised him." Gaius said quietly, his face pinched in worry.
"You know me Gaius, I'm always careful." She said with a smile, which just made his brow arch high on his forehead.
"I do know you Emerlyn, and that is why I worry."
Shrugging at him, the servant gave a bright smile before she started humming, completely unintimidated by the witchfinder. The physician just shook his head and hoped she didn't do anything to get herself, or anyone else, into trouble.
/*/
Emerlyn stepped into the rooms Uther had designated for Aredian, rolling her eyes at the ridiculous decorations he'd managed to travel with. He clearly wanted to intimidate those he spoke with, but he didn't know who he was dealing with, as a little skull ink pot wasn't going to work on her.
"Please, sit." He nodded towards the chair that was in front of the desk he was seated at, waiting until she'd complied before dipping his quill in the ink to begin writing on a piece of parchment.
"You are aware then, that sorcery has been practiced in the vicinity of Camelot?" He questioned, but it was more of a statement then an inquiry, as he'd clearly already made up his mind that it was true.
"No, I don't know that because I didn't see any magic." She retorted calmly.
"No, it cannot be denied. There was a witness. One that named you as also being a witness." Aredian said with a slight arch of his eyebrow.
"She is mistaken, as I didn't see the 'dancing smoke' that she did."
"I've spoken to her. She was quite clear on the matter. Do you deny your presence at the time of the incident?"
"No, I was there. But did the woman also tell you that I wasn't even facing the fire the smoke was coming off of?" Emerlyn replied, her own brow quirking as she stared him in the eye.
"You're saying that she lies?" His gaze was trying to penetrate into her soul, trying to get her to make any telling sign.
"I'm saying she saw something that I did not. I was collecting firewood for my guardian."
"Unless it was you that performed the magic." Aredian said seriously.
"It wasn't."
"Can you prove that it wasn't?"
"No. But you cannot prove that it was either, as you only have one witness, who can't even recall that I wasn't facing the smoke nor that close to it. If she can't remember those facts, than I call into question her entire account." The man's eye were sharp as he leaned forward on his elbow.
"So you're saying she made it all up?"
"I think perhaps she didn't get enough sleep the night before and thought she saw something she didn't. Now if you'll excuse me, I have to get down to the training ground." She said, standing up, spine straight as she flipped her plaited hair off her shoulder.
"For now." She gave a slight shrug before leaving, satisfied she'd held her own against the witchfinder. And if she may have come off a little disrespectful, well, she just hoped he was too busy looking for sorceress to let her insolence be known to the king.
Making her way outside the castle, she smiled at passing servants and guards as she headed towards where the knights were training. Arthur said it was because they needed to be ready if they had to fight against sorcery, but she knew he really just needed to hit something or someone to work out his frustrations. Man really needed to learn how to handle things without needing to resort to violence.
Grabbing a dulled sword from the rack, she tested its weight as she walked towards where Arthur and Leon were sparing, grinning that the men she passed, who all gave her questioning looks. It was obvious to them all that the servant had changed over the summer, as had her relationship with their captain, but they didn't know how well she could handle a sword. There was apparently no limit to the things they discovered about the dark haired beauty.
"You're dropping your shoulder, Leon." The two turned at her words, narrowly missing hitting each other in the face with their swords, making the witch have to bite back a laugh.
"Emerlyn! What are you doing here?" Arthur demanded, irritated she'd broken his concentration.
"Apparently saving poor Sir Leon from your onslaught." She replied with a shrug, the said noble swallowing a chuckle at the expression on the prince's face.
"I'll go see how the others are coming along, Sire." He gave a small bow of the head before striding away, Emerlyn moving to take her place, body dropping down into a fighting stance as she twirled the sword around.
"What in the blazes are you doing?" Arthur asked again, standing up straight and giving her a perplexed look.
"I had thought it would be obvious, my Lord." She quirked her eyebrow at him as she got ready, pulling her sword into her side.
"W-I'm not going to spar with you Emerlyn. Have you lost your mind?"
"Why not? You never minded using me as target practice before. What? Are you afraid of a girl beating you?" She challenged with a smirk, knowing he wouldn't be able to back down. Not when his pride was put to the test.
"That would never happen." Arthur retorted with a glare, his own body moving into position.
"We'll see." She said with a light shrug and smile before they started circling each other.
The other knights soon stopped their own practice as their attention was drawn towards the clanging of swords and the witty commentary that was flowing between master and servant. They were surprised at how well Emerlyn was handling herself, as she'd never been one for a fight; Arthur was still landing the most blows, of course, but it looked like she was playing with him more than anything.
It was more a dance than battle, the two moving around each other as if they'd been doing this for years. When Emerlyn stepped right, Arthur went with her; when Arthur feinted before swinging low, Emerlyn parried. The prince had strength and years of training while the witch relied on speed and cunning, making them a pretty even duo.
Arthur pulled her roughly against him, their swords both aligned with the other's neck as they were pressed chest to chest, both trying to catch their breath. Their faces were flushed and beaded with sweat, their bodies humming with more than just the exertion. His eyes dropped to her mouth as he sucked in air, the red petals almost more tempting than he could deal with.
"I—I think it is a draw, my Lord." Emerlyn murmured after a moment, her heart racing as his eyes darkened before they dropped away from hers. He was in his red tunic and trousers, meaning there wasn't any metal armor to act as a barrier between them, making her very aware of how closely they were pressed against each other.
"Where did you learn to fight?" He asked, forcing his gaze away from her mouth as he stepped back, blunt sword lowering.
"Let's just say I had an eventful summer." She replied with a smile and shrug, her own weapon dropping to her side.
"Emerlyn—"
"Later, Arthur. There are too many ears about." She said quietly with a slight cock of her head, indicating the men who littered the field, all going back to their work so as not to be discovered spying.
"We will be having that discussion."
"Of course, Sire. I had better go wash up so that I do not smell for the rest of the day. Are you going to want to bathe before lunch?" He had to shake his head to get the image of her naked and wet out of his mind, knowing now was not the time or place. No one, meaning the king, could ever know their relationship was anything other than platonic, and getting aroused in the middle of the training ground just wouldn't do.
"Yes. Make sure my meal has more meat on it." He commanded, slipping back into his princely role.
"Of course, Sire." She gave a little bow of the head, her eyes holding laughter as her lips twitched before she schooled her expression and spun on her heel.
Arthur watched her replace the blade and exchange some words with a few of the knights, thinking how much her presence had truly changed things. She had brought light into the kingdom, not only for him, but for his men. She was the only servant he'd ever known that was somehow able to move from one group of people to another, making them all feel like equals even when the others' rankings were higher than her own.
The knights treated her as one of their own; well, they were more cautious about hurting her feelings and stuff, because she was a girl, after all. But his men respected her, both for her actions and her heart. She'd gone out with them when death was the most likely outcome; she'd never shied away taking risks to protect him or any of the other knights, and they returned the favor. She was one of them, even if she was a girl and a servant.
"Let's practice our archery." He called out, moving towards the weapons rack to trade out his sword for a crossbow. He needed to get back to work and stop thinking about his alluring servant, no matter how hard it was.
/*/
Emerlyn followed Arthur as they headed towards the throne room, where a guard told them Aredian had evidence to report. It'd been a long two days since he'd arrived and Emerlyn was just ready for him to be gone so that she could worry about one less thing; and so she could prepare for the talk she needed to have with Arthur.
The prince strode with confidence through the room towards where the three thrones were placed, his father and Morgana already seated. He gave the king a nod before he sat down, his eyes moving over the crowd until they landed on the witch, who'd taken a place next to her guardian.
She was dressed in her simple blue dress that tied up the front, her hair left from its custom braid to spill down her back in raven curls. He wasn't sure what had prompted her to wear a dress that day, but he thought she looked lovely. She didn't need finery or jewels to catch the eye, her natural beauty being enough to entice even the pickiest of men.
Aredian led three women through the knights and gathered nobles, placing them each before the seated royals before he gave a bow to Uther.
"I have found evidence of sorcery, Your Majesty." His voice boomed out, confident in is words.
"What evidence is this?" Uther questioned. Aredian walked to the first woman, standing behind them to be out of the way, but still intimidating.
"Speak. Do not be afraid." The woman took a shaky breath before she looked up at her king.
"I was draying water from the well, Sire, when I saw them. Faces, in the water, Sire. Terrible faces. Like people who were drowned, screaming. Screaming." She said, her voice choked with tears. Aredian placed a calming hand on her shoulder and hummed before moving towards the next woman.
"Gaius, this doesn't make any sense. I haven't done any magic besides to wash my clothes. And I know Morgana hasn't done any." She whispered, the two exchanging worried glances.
"Tell them what you saw." The witchfinder said to the next woman.
"A goblin dancing on the coals. It was dancing in the flames. And it spoke, Sire. My heart near stopped for fear of it." The woman explained, breath hitching in her throat as Uther sat back in surprise. Arthur's eyes met Emerlyn's, frown deepening when she gave a confused shrug, not knowing what was going on either.
"As you've heard, Sire, the incident in the woods was only the beginning." Aredian said as he came to stand next to the last woman, prompting her to speak.
"There was a sorcerer, Sire, in the square. There were creatures jumping right out of his mouth."
"What manner of creature?"
"Toads, Sire. Great, green, slimy things as big as your fist!"
"The sorcerer laughs in your face. Even now magic flourishes on the streets of Camelot." Emerlyn had to bite her lip to keep from making any sound, not wanting to draw attention to herself.
"I scarcely believe it." Uther said, shocked. He hadn't even imagined it was as bad as this.
"Yet it is the truth, my Lord. Fortunately, I have utilized every facet of my craft to bring this mater to a swift resolution."
"The sorcerer. You have a suspect?" Uther stood from his throne, eyes never leaving the man.
"I do, my Lord. And I regret to say they stand among us in this very room." His words were met with uneasy shifting and concerned murmurs. Emerlyn's eyes caught Morgana's frightened ones and she gave a slight shake of her head, trying to remind her that she wasn't alone. Arthur's throat had grown tight as he sat forward, dread filling him.
"My methods are infallible, my findings incontestable. The facts point to one person and one person alone. Aredian said with authority, relishing in the drama of the entire event.
"The girl, Emerlyn." He said loudly, turning to point at her. Emerlyn's eyes widened as everyone turned to look at her.
"Emerlyn? You can't be serious!" Arthur's voice called out in doubt, his expression showing how much he bought that statement even while his insides had turned to ice.
"This is outrageous! You have no evidence!" Gaius said angrily.
"The tools of magic cannot be hidden from me. I'm certain a thorough sear of the girl's chamber will deliver us all the evidence we need." Aredian said confidently. Uther's gaze turned to his son's servant, finding it hard to believe himself.
"Emerlyn?"
"I have nothing to hide from him." She replied, head held high.
"Very well. Guards, restrain the girl. Let the search begin." Uther said as he reseated himself.
Emerlyn and Arthur exchanged a look before the guards were taking her by the arms to be taken down to the dungeons. She wanted him to know that she did not fear Aredian finding anything, as she'd made sure any possible item that could be linked to magic had been hidden down with Kilgharrah.
But she was even more suspicious of the witchfinder, as there shouldn't have been any instances of magic, as she hadn't felt anyone new enter the city. Something was not right, that she was positive about.
/*/
Arthur found Emerlyn kneeling on the hard stone floor next to her overturned bed, head bowed as she clutched the ruined blue gown to her chest. The entire chamber was in chaos, as the guards hadn't left a chair unturned in their search and hadn't hesitated as they destroyed her and Gaius's belongings. His gut clenched when he saw the glistening of her cheeks, hating that this had happened.
"I don't understand. Why was Gaius taken?" She asked quietly, not looking up from the blue fabric. It had a long tear down the side, where it had been ripped from the mannequin in their quest. Her other clothes were strewn around the floor, her cupboard door handing off one hinge.
"We found a wrist amulet and he claimed it was his." Arthur revealed as he squatted down next to her, hand hesitating a moment before caressing her back. She looked so fragile, dress wrinkled and dirty from the dungeons and hair knotted; it was so unlike the strong woman he was used to that the prince didn't know how to handle it.
Taking a shaky breath, Emerlyn clenched her eyes closed to get a handle on her wayward emotions, hating Aredian had been able to affect her so. She wasn't a materialistic person, since she'd had little of value growing up, but this hit her hard; Arthur had bought this gown for her in his first rare nonprattish act and she was furious it was ruined. When she'd worn it for his coronation, the way he'd looked at her had set her heart racing; it was the first instance he'd outwardly shown how she affected him and she'd never forget it.
"That cannot be possible." She shook her head as she finally looked up, her eyes red and slightly swollen. Arthur pushed some hair behind her ear so he could clearly see her face.
"Did you miss it? The bracelet was found in a jar of sand on the shelf."
"No, I don't even have any bracelets. The only amulet I have is a necklace. And I'm not an idiot, Arthur. I've hidden all my things where they won't be found."
"So it was Gaius's then?" He asked, his brow furrowing in confusion. Shaking her head, Emerlyn gently lowered the torn dress to the ground and stood, the prince going with her.
"No, Gaius doesn't have any either. That's why it cannot be possible. That bracelet wasn't in here before today, Arthur." She said seriously, her mind already working.
"So you think it was planted?"
"Yes. There's no reason those women should have seen those things they did and that bracelet shouldn't have been here. I think Aredian is setting Gaius up to get paid. And they seem to have an old vendetta that I think he wants to settle."
"I thought that maybe the others had cast a spell or something. Are you sure they didn't?"
"Arthur, no one has been practicing magic since Aredian got here, myself included. Something isn't right and I need to figure it out." She said angrily, wiping at her cheeks to get rid of the lingering wetness.
"Just be careful, Emerlyn. I don't want you back in the cell." The prince said, taking her hand in his to give a squeeze. Emerlyn gave a small smile and leaned in to press her warm lips against his.
"I'll be safe, I promise. But I won't let him get away with this."
"Good. I have to go have dinner with my father and Aredian." He said with a long sigh, not wanting to leave her. Especially not with the image of her kneeling in the wreckage still fresh in his mind.
"You be careful too. There's no telling what that…man is capable of." She said, the disgust for the witchfinder clear in her voice. Arthur hummed in agreeance and gave her another light kiss before striding out of the room and from the chamber.
Glancing around, Emerlyn had to clamp down on her anger before she did something stupid and reckless, like march up to Aredian and curse him with boils. Once she was sure the urge had been shoved deeply into her subconscious, she started picking up her room, knowing it'd go faster than the outer chamber since it was smaller.
It was already late so she'd have to wait until the morning to discover what exactly Aredian was up to. It was not going to be a restful night.
/*/
"Emerlyn!" The raven haired beauty turned quickly at the panicked call, spotting Gwen hurtling towards her quickly. She'd been getting ready to leave the castle to investigate the women who'd claimed to see strange creatures, as their stories didn't make any sense.
"What's wrong Gwen?" She asked as the other servant came to a stop next to her, panting from her quick trot.
"They've taken Morgana to the dungeons for questioning. I…I don't think she's strong enough for this, Emerlyn. She's so scared!" Gwen said in worry, worried her mistress would reveal something that would put her or Emerlyn in a bad spot.
"What? Why?"
"I don't know. Maybe because Gaius treats her nightmares?" The dark-skinned woman shrugged, not sure of anything.
"It's going to be okay, Gwen." Emerlyn reassured before she grabbed her hand and ducked into an unused room, needing privacy.
"How can you be sure?" The other woman's voice shook as the possibilities of what could happen filled her mind.
"Have a little faith." The witch replied with a crooked smile before she closed her eyes and concentrated, trying to find the pathway she'd never used before. It took a few minutes before she found it, as the distance between them was greater than she'd thought and the connection faint. But it was there, and that's all she needed.
"Morgana, don't be frightened. Gwen told me you've been taken to Aredian and I wanted to make sure you knew not to be scared. I won't let him do anything to you."
Morgana nearly jumped out of the chair when Emerlyn's voice suddenly filled her head, startling her. She quickly coughed, trying to cover her strange behavior as the man looked up at her in question, not wanting to let on that she had a witch telepathically communicating with her.
"There are tools of torture, Emerlyn!"
"He's most likely just trying to scare you into talking. But remember that I'm here and nothing is going to happen to you. And you mustn't give him anything to hold against Gaius either."
"I-I'll try."
"Now it is true, is it not, that you have received treatment for nightmares?" The witchfinder questioned as he prepared his quill to take notes.
"Yes." Morgana responded, her voice shaking only slightly, the assurances from Emerlyn working to calm her down.
"And it was Gaius, the court physician who administered these treatments, these potions?"
"Yes." She nodded again, not liking what he seemed to be getting at.
"Thank you. Now you may go." Aredian said as he scratched his quill over the parchment. Uncertain, Morgana stood and started towards the door.
"You don't happen to know what was in these potions, I suppose?" His question stopped her and she turned back to look at him.
"No."
"No, of course not. So for all you know, these potions could have been magical. Your dreams, the product of an enchanted elixir?" Her skin crawled at the gleam in his eye.
"No, I had these dreams before the treatment. Before I came to Camelot, actually." She replied.
"But these, have they got better or worse since Gaius began treating you?"
"Better. Actually, they're all but gone now." Morgana said,even though she knew it was really due to her training and not the potions. But the potions, no matter how well made, never really helped because they couldn't get rid of her birthright of being a seer.
"Hmm. Thank you." She gave a curt nod before leaving, wanting to get away from the dungeons as quickly as possible.
"I don't think I was able to help him."
"Good."
"Emerlyn, I passed Gaius on the way here. He doesn't look well."
"I'm working on it. Thank you, Morgana."
"I just hope I didn't make things worse."
"Everything will be alright. Somehow."
Morgana hoped her friend was right. Gaius didn't deserve any of this and she prayed Emerlyn found a way to save him before he was broken.
/*/
"By the laws of Camelot, I must sentence you to death." Uther uttered, not believing the words were actually coming out of his mouth. Emerlyn's heart nearly stopped.
"The sorcerer will be purged of his magic by means of fire! He shall be burned at the stake tomorrow at dawn!" Aredian said loudly, the witch not missing the look he sent her as he walked around Gaius to stand to the side.
"Bear witness and heed his lesson!" Two guards came forward and started dragging Gaius from the room and she couldn't stop herself.
"You're a liar and a fraud!" She said angrily as she glared hatefully at Aredian. Arthur was suddenly in front of her, pushing her out of the room as quickly as he could.
"I will not stop until you're lies are proven to be what they are!" She shouted, fighting against Arthur's grip.
"Guards!" Uther called.
"I'll deal with this." The prince said to the approaching guard, not wanting her to be locked up again. He led her to a deserted hallway, the spitfire struggling the entire way.
"Let go of me! You should have let me curse him!" She snarled as she wrenched her arms from his, spinning to glare at him.
"Have you lost your mind? If you go after Aredian, you'll end up on the pyre with Gaius." Arthur retorted with a shake of the head as his large hands clamped down on her shoulders.
"I would have taken him with me." She scowled.
"But you'd still be dead. What good would that have done anyone?" Her shoulders slumped at his words, the anger burning down to a simmer.
"I cannot believe Uther would really kill him."
"He won't if you can find proof Aredian is lying. I thought you were supposed to be finding that evidence."
"I've been busy! But…you're right, as scary as that is. I need to find something, anything."
"You best hurry. You don't have much time."
"I won't let him die." She said strongly before spinning on her heel and marching away, leaving a half bemused, half worried prince behind.
/*/
"This is hopeless! There are simply too many plants." Gwen said in frustration as she flipped through yet another tome, looking for the flowers Emerlyn had found in Aredian's room. They only had a small window of opportunity to find proof he'd set Gaius up before Morgana broke and also confessed.
"Keep looking." Emerlyn murmured as she pulled a book to her.
"We don't even know if this flower's relevant." Gwen knew she wasn't helping matters, but she was too consumed with worry.
"No, we don't, but it's all we've got." Emerlyn said with a sigh before she continued flipping through the pages, her desperation growing. And luck seemed to be on her side as the flower was on the next page.
"Here, Belladonna." She called and Gwen hurried to her side, the two reading the page.
"For the alleviation of ulcers, allergies, muscular inflammation. This is hopeless Emerlyn."
"No, wait, listen. "Under some conditions the flower's tincture produces hallucinations."" The witch continued to read, her mind already putting the pieces together.
"So?"
"Aredian's witnesses. I knew it couldn't have been magic, and this proves it. They weren't seeing magic, they were seeing visions."
"It makes sense if he's facing the evidence. But how can we prove it?" The two shared a look, both trying to come up with a plan.
"He's too clever to have given them the tincture directly. The witnesses, they must've got it from someone else." The witch concluded.
"They could've been getting it from anyone." Gwen said with a sad sigh.
"There has to be a connection between them we're missing. Perhaps an ailment of some kind?"
"They were all woman." Emerlyn quirked a brow at her, not seeing the link.
"What is the one thing only women would buy?" Gwen asked in excitement.
"Things to make them look beautiful." Emerlyn supplied with a smile, which the dark skinned maid returned before they hurried from the chamber. They were going to find out the truth about this and free Gaius if it was the last thing they did.
/*/
Emerlyn rushed through the gathered crowd as the guards unloaded Gaius, pushing herself to move faster. She nearly tripped over a woman as Arthur's blonde head came into view, her desperation to reach him nearly crimpling.
"Arthur!" She nearly shouted, drawing the prince's attention, along with those around them.
"Where have you been? Did you find anything?" He demanded, pulling her away from the nosey townspeople.
"Yes! I have proof! Please, we cannot let this happen!" She said, hands clinging to his jacket before she remembered herself.
"Is it irrefutable?"
"Yes!" Nodding, Arthur strode forward and shot his hand out.
"Wait!" He said, making Aredian pause before he could lower the lit torch to the straw.
"Arthur?" Uther called out, not liking his son was so publically going against his orders. Not that he wanted to kill Gaius. The law was the law.
"Your Majesty, proof has been found that Gaius is innocent. I ask that you give him the chance to be proven innocent, Sire." He called out, his shoulders straight. He didn't miss the small breath his father let out, as if he was relieved to have the possibility of proving his oldest friend blameless.
"Very well. We will meet in the throne room. Bring the evidence and I will make my final ruling." The king replied before spinning around, his cloak swirling around him as he went.
"Thank you!" Emerlyn beamed at him, having to fight the impulse to throw her arms around him. He nodded and gave a small smile before he jumped up onto the platform to free Gaius himself.
"Sire…"
"It's going to be alright Gaius." The prince said softly as he helped the old man down the steps, where two guards were standing to escort him back to the castle.
Arthur didn't miss the glare Aredian sent their way, but he just ignored him and led the way back to the throne room. Emerlyn fell into step next to him and they shared a smile, both relieved she'd been able to stop this travesty from happening.
/*/
"How is Gaius?" Arthur asked when Emerlyn came into his room the next morning, dressed in her strange and tight purple outfit. His eyes dipped down to the slits, where bare thigh was exposed above her knee-high boots, which today housed her daggers.
"As well as can be expected when he was mere seconds away from death." She shrugged as she tossed him an apple, making the prince arch a brow.
"Is this my breakfast?" He asked in disbelief. She smiled as she quickly picked up the room before pulling out clothes for him to wear that day.
"I thought we would head out of the city."
"What for?" He asked in confusion as he bit into the red flesh, juice squirting down his chin.
"You wanted to have a certain conversation. And there are too many people to overhear us in Camelot. We must be somewhere private." He straightened up at her words, his interest piqued. He'd gotten so distracted with Gaius that he'd nearly forgotten.
"Where are we going?"
"Oh, I know the perfect place. But we'll need to leave as if we're going on a daytime hunting trip. Hurry up. I'll go get the horses saddled." Emerlyn commanded, not staying to let him get worked up about her ordering him around. Today was too important to their relationship, both as a couple and as the guardians of Camelot, to let herself be distracted.
Grumbling to himself about insolent servants, Arthur made quick work of pulling on his riding clothes, not wanting to make her wait too long. Now that she knew that he knew about her magic, he wouldn't put it past her to use it against him if he irritated her. And come to think of it, had she ever done that before? They really did need to have this discussion, even if they had to leave the city to have it.
He wondered where they were going. Knowing Emerlyn the way he did, anything was possible. Why didn't that reassure him? Oh yeah, because it was Emerlyn.
AN: Okay, so what did you guys think? Please be kind and review! I worked hard on this chapter and would love the feedback. Thanks for reading!
And sorry for any errors!