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Chapter 20
Challenge Accepted
(3rd Person P.O.V)
Prince Cary sat in the cave on the wooden throne as he tapped a beat onto the hand rest. His eyes were unfocused, while he stayed deep in thought. There was the sound of footsteps and a cleared throat. "Yes?" He asked without bothering to see who it was.
"Master, the archer has returned." The guard said as Prince Cary finally looked up.
"Bring the archer in." He commanded as the guard nodded and left the room, before returning a few moments later with the archer.
"Ah, Archer, how did your quest go?" Prince Cary smirked. "Did you hit the mark?"
The archer bowed before him with their head lowered. "The boy has been eliminated."
"Ah good, good. Did you know why I had to have him killed?" The archer's head shook side to side. "Well, he was destined to one of King Arthur's greatest knights. If he had grown up, there would have been no chance to do anything with him, his own father realized that."
"His father?" The archer questioned, as Prince Cary started to examine his hand.
"Yes, Dynadin, their father was not of the noble type, let's just say that. However, it was rumoured that his child would be a huge part of the downfall of those who tried to overpower the Queen of Lexador." Prince Cary said as the archer paused.
"But, didn't the boy have a sister?" The archer inquired.
"Yes, but she's a weak thing. Very sick. Has been since she was a child. She holds no ability to overpower anybody." Prince Cary explained, as the archer stopped for a moment.
"Master, she is very loyal to the Princess-"
"I realize that, but loyalty has nothing to do with it. She may be loyal, but she is also weak. Now, I need to focus on Amity herself now that the boy has been taken care of." Prince Cary stood up. "This is where you are going to come in again, Archer."
"Really? What am I meant to do?" The archer questioned as Prince Cary walked closer to the archer, who went very still.
"You are going to challenge Amity to a battle. Do not kill her, though, but I do want to weaken. Enough to make the siege over Camelot easier. King Arthur will be difficult to fight, but Amity is one of the best fighter, along with the knights, she needs to be stopped before she can join in." Prince Cary informed the archer.
"So wound, not kill." The archer repeated in simpler terms as Prince Cary nodded and grinned.
"Exactly, you understand me so well," his eyes narrowed as he brought his hand up to cup her cheek, pushing her hood off, showing a young lady with olive skin a few shades lighter than Prince Cary's. Her hair was brown, almost black, just like his, as it was cut to her shoulders and braided at the front of the hairline. The main difference though, was her bright purple eyes, which looked up at him. "I am so glad that the Alac tribe never told them about you, for so many of my plans would be ruined. However, you cannot tell them of your real connection to me, understood, Archer?"
The archer nodded at Prince Cary as she leaned into his palm, taking all the comfort she could from him. "Yes, brother."
Morgana rolled over in her sleep, mumbling while her hands clenched around her pillow.
Amity was smiling as she danced with Sir Gwaine, while her eyes would go to Merlin every few moments. The doors to the hall opened as everyone but Amity and Sir Gwaine hid in the corners of the room. A figure in armour walked forward. The image blurred as it showed Amity picking up a gauntlet. They were then fitting on the tournament field, as their swords clashed. Amity then fell into her back as the eyes which were once blue turned purple and a sword was raised into the air and quickly brought down.
(Amity P.O.V)
I waited for the guard to announce me before the two doors opened and I strode into the hall. All eyes turned me, as women looked at my dress enviously and men seemed to be eyeing me off. I kept my head high as my heels clicked against the red carpet in the centre of the hall and I made my way to my seat at the head table. Gwen, Morgana and Arthur were already seated, as I nodded to them in recognition and sat down. The feast was to celebrate the anniversary of when Magic was banned from Camelot, as it had been for nearly thirty years now. Morgana had seemed tense all week, as it had been three weeks since I discovered her magic and we hadn't properly spoken to each other yet since I had left her and Gwen in her chambers after saying she needed to tell Arthur.
Arthur stood up and cleared his throat, as all eyes went to him. "Welcome fellow friends! We are here today to celebrate another anniversary of magic being cast away from our kingdom. My father was the first to make this law, and I hold it in respect. I ask you to feast in joy tonight, as together, we protect Camelot from the harm of magic. Thank you."
Arthur sat down as everyone clapped politely, Gwen and Morgana having blank faces. Gwen forced a smile when Arthur beamed down at her while he sat. He took her hand and kissed her palm, before holding it to his cheek and whispering something to her. I looked away from the happy couple and my eyes caught Merlin, who was standing in the corner, whispering to a servant girl while holding a jug of wine. I winced at the sight, as Merlin smiled, saying something which made the girl laugh. I averted my eyes as Esme placed pork onto my plate, along with some vegetables.
"Thank you, Esme." I murmured, before grabbing her hand before she pulled it back from placing the plate on the table. "Who is the servant girl Merlin is talking to?"
Esme looked in the corner, seeing them and she gave me a weak smile. "Her name is Bronwen, Amity."
"Are they friends?" I questioned and Esme nodded, but grinned at me.
"Amity, by now, I would have thought that you would have realized that Merlin befriends everyone, he is that sort of friendly person." She shrugged and stepped back.
"Yes, friendly." I muttered as I eyed the girl touches his arm, obviously flirting.
"Not jealous, are we Amity?" Gwen teased from beside me and I rolled my eyes and began to eat my pork.
"Of course not Gwen." I responded, as she smiled and reached over, grabbing my hand and squeezing it.
"Because you have nothing to be jealous of. She has nothing compared to you." Gwen comforted and I smiled at her, right when someone walked up to us at the table.
"Princess Amity, may I have this dance?" I looked up to see Lord Ventir smiling down at me and I shifted in my seat.
"Of course." I answered, as 'no, I really would not like to dance with you' went through my head.
The musician began to play a tune for a jig, as people partnered up and lined up into two different lines, facing their partners. I curtsied with the ladies as the men bowed and we stepped forwards each other, raising our hands so they were just not touching and turning around in circles. We then changed to direction of the turn and went the other way, as Ventir kept smiling down at me, to which I smiled back awkwardly. We then stepped back into our original lines and moved and linked arms, turning in a circle before I was passed onto the man to our left, who turned out to be Sir Gwaine who had been dancing with one of the wealthy ladies.
"Hello Princess." Sir Gwaine said as we linked arms.
"Please, call me Amity, Sir Gwaine." I said as we twirled around.
"Then I insist you call me Gwaine then." He responded, smiling roguishly at me while I giggled. "Are you enjoying your dance?"
My eyes darted to Ventir who was watching Gwaine and myself. "Don't tell anyone, but Ventir is one of the most boring people when he starts talking. He may dance well, but just do not ask him of his opinion of tax."
Gwaine winced sympathetically. "That sort of lord then? Unlucky."
"I know." I said as the double doors leading to the hall suddenly burst open.
The dancers gasped as the scattered to the sides of the hall, except for myself and Gwaine, who stayed where we were. A figure entered, dressed in armour with a sword, shield and green cape. I watched them come closer as Arthur stood up. The figure paid no attention to anyone else as they headed directly towards me and pulled their gauntlet off.
They threw the gauntlet in front of me, at my feet. "I challenge you, Princess Amity, to a contest."
The room went silent as all eyes went to me and Arthur shook his head. Beside me, Gwaine grabbed my arm to stop me, but I pulled away from him. How am I not meant to accept a challenge? If I'm going to be Queen, I'll be expected to protect my people.
"Don't you dare, Amity." Arthur said quietly, as I ignored him.
I walked forward slowly and bent down, picking up the gauntlet. "I accept your challenge."
"Good. We will fight at noon tomorrow in the stadium. Sword and shield combat." The person said, turning to leave.
"If I am to fight you, may I at least know who you are?" I called as the person in armor, as they turned around and brought their hands to their helmet.
Slowly, they took the helmet off, showing short black hair which was braided at the front. My eyes widened as I took the girl in and her blue eyes caught mine, as her light mocha coloured skin glistened in the light. I'm pretty sure all the men would be drooling. "I am Lady Helaine, milady."
"Lady Helaine, well, I shall see you tomorrow then." I said, as she nodded and left, leaving all eyes on me. I swallowed thickly and raised my voice. "Elyan, Esme, come."
I then strode out of the hall, as the two others followed. Esme caught up to me first, giving me a shocked look. "Amity, you cannot be serious!"
"I've accepted the challenge Esme, there's no way to get out of it." I responded and she gaped at me.
"Surely there must be a way!" She argued and I shook my head.
"The code says that once a challenge is accepted the fighters cannot get out of it." I informed her.
"Isn't that the knights' code though? You're not a knight." She complained as we climbed the stairs and turned onto the corridor which led to my chambers.
"I have accepted it, I cannot withdraw. Even Arthur wouldn't be able to get me out of it, and he's the King." I said as she groaned and I noted that Elyan seemed to be staying very silent.
"Amity, we don't know why that lady is making you fight her. It's not safe!" Esme continued and I sighed and we entered my chambers, Elyan taking his place outside the door.
"Since when is any fight safe?" I asked rhetorically and Esme stared at me, unsure what to say. "Esme, I have no power to get out of this battle. She challenged and I accepted. I do not know why she is wanting to fight me, but I do know that your loyalty and caring attitude towards me is very valued. Thank you for being such an amazing friend and sticking by my side."
Esme reached forward and grasped my hands in hers. "You have done so much for me, Amity, it's my job as your friend to worry."
"Well, I think you'll find Arthur and Gwen will want that job." I joked, as Esme smiled and abruptly threw herself at me, pulling me into a hug. I hugged back and shut my eyes. "Oh Esme."
"I'm scared, because I can't lose you too." She whispered and I held on tighter. "I've lost everyone else I care for, what if you die in the tournament tomorrow?"
"If I die tomorrow, which I think is very unlikely, then all I'd ask of you is to make sure that you remember me, but do not let it hold you back, understood? But trust me, I will fight with everything in me." I promised and we stayed like that until I eventually pulled away. "Now, I feel that it would be a good night to go to bed early. Do you mind getting a bath ready for me?"
Esme nodded just when the door opened with a loud bang and Arthur, Gwen, Morgana and Merlin came in. "What were you thinking? Have you heard of self-preservation?"
"Have you heard of knocking?" I said sarcastically as Esme moved away from me while Arthur stormed directly up to me.
"Do not use that tone with me, missy." I had to hold back my smirk at his name for me, as it'd be suicide to mock him when he is at his most concerned. "You are going to get hurt!"
"That's usually what happens in a battle." I responded lightly, but Arthur didn't seem to find the humour. "Arthur, I'll be fine."
"Fine? Fine? No way! I am not allowing you to do this Amity, it is not safe." Arthur began to yell and I rolled my eyes.
"It's just a match and you know I can fight." I argued as Arthur shook his head.
"I should've stopped you before you picking up that bloody gauntlet." He muttered to himself and my eyes narrowed.
"You cannot speak. You once told me of your fights when you were a Prince! You went against your own father!" I complained and Arthur growled.
"And I wasn't some little Princess who had no proper training." He stepped closer as I glared up at him. "Amity, I was one of the best knights in Camelot. I was the one who trained all of the others. You just know how to fight from your brothers." Arthur said and I stayed silent. "I even lost some matches because there were others better than me. I also lost many friends because they would fight to stop me from fighting, but in the end, I did fight the opponent."
My eyes lost their glare as I just stared up at him. "There's no way for me to get out of it. I accepted her challenge."
Arthur sighed. "I know, but you still should've not accepted."
I gave him what I know is my innocent look which most people can't ignore. "I couldn't let her make me look like I'm a coward."
Arthur gave me an understanding look. "I know how it feels, but I also know how dangerous it is to fight. You can get hurt."
"I realize that too, but I couldn't let myself look weak." I muttered and suddenly found myself in Arthur's embrace.
"Oh Amity, you are definitely not weak." We stayed like that until I cleared my throat and stepped back.
"I need to get to sleep." I said as Arthur nodded and slowly left my chambers, Merlin and Gwen following, but Morgana stayed. "Morgana, now really isn't the time."
"You cannot fight." She said as I looked at her, wide eyed. "It's not safe Amity."
"Is this from one of your dreams?" I asked as I began to untie my hair.
"They're visions." Morgana stated and she moved closer to me. "Please, you cannot go ahead with the fight."
"What did you see?" I questioned and looked into her eyes as they began to well up with tears.
"Horrible things." Morgana shook her head and tears began to fall.
"Morgana." I started and she suddenly grabbed my hands, pulling me towards her.
"Amity, Lady Helaine is not who you think she is." Morgana insisted and I gave her a confused look. "There is something unusual about her-"
"Just like how there's something unusual about you too?" I retorted and Morgana bit her lip.
"Amity, I don't know what my visions were telling me, but I saw that Lady Helaine…her eyes…they turned purple and…she tripped you…and raised her sword-"
"Morgana," I interrupted, "your concern is sweet but not needed."
"Yes, it is." Morgana said as more tears fell from her eyes. "I don't know what I'd do if you die tomorrow, what Arthur or Gwen or Esme would die. Oh, even Elyan is beginning to see you like a sister. You have impacted our lives and none of us can bare to lose you. You asked me whether I knew that Mark was going to be murdered, I didn't, but I know of this so I refuse to let you have the same end."
I frowned and pulled her into a hug. Screw the fact she has magic, right now she is just the same protective big sister Morgana who she was before I discovered her secret. "Morgana, I think it'd be best if you go back to bed."
I felt her shake her head as I sighed and she whispered. "I cannot sleep if I know you're going to fight tomorrow, knowing you have little chance of survival."
"Well, you can at least try. I know I have to go to sleep now, otherwise I'll be falling asleep on the tournament field tomorrow." I squeezed her tighter and pulled back as she gave me a desperate look.
Morgana slowly released me. "Good night, Amity."
"Night Morgana." I said, as she left my room, shooting an unreadable look over my shoulder. I turned around to see Esme who came out of the antechamber, probably trying to give Morgana and me privacy. "Time for bed, I think, Esme."
Esme nodded and I sat down in front of the mirror as she began to brush my hair and braid it for the night, as my stomach tightened and I thought of the panic written all over Morgana's face.
Light suddenly shone in my chambers as I heard Esme moving things around. I groaned and rolled over, shoving my face deeper into my pillow as she clucked her tongue, noticing the action.
"Amity, you have to get up." Esme said and I shook my head.
"No, my bed's far too comfy. Why did I agree to that stupid match?" I said as Esme made her way over to my bed, where she perched herself on the side and watched me.
"Because you're too proud to say no to challenges?" She suggested and I grabbed a spare pillow and lightly chucked it at her. "Oi!"
"That's what you get for mocking me." I joked and slowly rolled over onto my back, opening my eyes. "You know, bed does sound a lot nicer than fighting."
"Yes, well, now you know not to accept challenges for next time." Esme said as she got off my bed and picked up the pillow before fluffing it and placing it back down. "Now get up, I need to tidy your bed."
"It's nice to know you're so worried about me." I teased, although inwardly I was rejoicing, she's getting back into her old self, showing she's healing.
I sat up and got out of bed, pushing stray pieces of hair off my face as I stumbled to the table and sat down, where Esme had already prepared breakfast for me. "So, what are you wanting to do before the fight? Since it doesn't start until noon?"
I shrugged and grabbed a grape, popping it into my mouth. "I don't know, probably go for a walk, maybe talk to Lady Helaine and find out why she challenged me."
"Are you sure that's a good idea?" Esme asked as she started to neaten my blankets.
"Who knows? If I'm really desperate, I could go and accidentally bump into Merlin again." I winked at her as she rolled her eyes and started to fluff all my pillows.
"I don't think he'll have time to chat today, Amity, knowing Arthur, he'll probably be giving him more chores than usual because he would be stressing and worrying about you." Esme responded as she finished with my bed and walked over to sit at the table beside me, taking a bit out of the apple I offered her.
"Yes, well if I did die, I wouldn't want to die without seeing his face beforehand. I could die with happy thoughts then." I kidded, but Esme didn't laugh at that. "Oh come on Esme, lighten up a little."
"How can I when you're walking to your death?" She questioned and I rolled my eyes. Can't they just accept that I cannot get out of the fight and I might even defeat Lady Helaine.
"Have you been talking to Morgana? You both seem to share similar views." I muttered as she put her apple down and leaned closer to me.
"Morgana isn't the only one other than me concerned, Amity. The whole of Camelot is worried for you, I had other villagers come up to me, begging me to convince you to drop out of the contest." Esme informed me. Wow, I didn't expect that from them.
"And why would they do that?" I asked.
"Because they don't want to lose you either, Amity. You have proven to be an amazing Princess and Camelot will be guaranteed alliance with Lexador once you take up your place as queen." Esme answered as I sighed and pushed my plate away from me.
"I'm not hungry anymore." I said as she hesitated. "Please get one of my dresses prepared Esme."
Esme slowly stood up and went to my wardrobe as I stayed seated, my thoughts starting to take over my head.
I strode down the corridor, my hair and skirt flowing out behind me as Esme and Elyan both had gone off to do other things relating to their jobs, Esme said something about cleaning a dress and Elyan had an issue with the knights. I turned the corner just as someone walked into me, causing me to stumble. I gasped as hands went to my waist and stabilized me. I looked up and directly into Merlin's eyes.
"Merlin." I said, surprised. "We have to stop bumping into each other like this…well, I mean literally."
"I can agree with that." Merlin responded as he removed his hands from my waist. "How are you?"
"Oh, fine, I suppose. You?" Merlin shrugged.
"Fine I suppose." He said as we stayed silent before bursting into laughter.
"Oh, such an original answer." I kidded and Merlin chuckled.
"I'm an original guy." Merlin retorted.
"So, why are you not with Arthur?" I asked as he stepped back.
"I'm meant to be getting his shirt, it's in the kitchens drying." He told me as I smiled.
"Would you like someone with you while get it?" I questioned and Merlin seemed surprised.
"Really? You'd want to come? It's just fetching a shirt?" Merlin said as I nodded.
"I need something to do, otherwise I'll probably start panicking about the fight." I admitted and Merlin smiled understandingly.
"You're so much like Arthur." He said and I grinned.
"I'll take that as a compliment. So, what do you say to have a little blonde girl following you?" I asked as Merlin smiled and nodded.
"If you really want to. And to be honest, you don't seem to be much of a girl anymore." My eyes widened and he flushed and started to backtrack. "I meant…er…more that you're older…now…not that you're old though…you are just not little…not that I notice-"
"Merlin, calm down before you're the one having a panic attack." I giggled, inwardly awarding myself at the fact that he doesn't think I'm a little girl while Merlin gave me a sheepish smile. "I've never been to the kitchens before, you'll have to show me the way."
"Follow me then." He said as we started to walk down the corridor to the staircase which he led me down and we went down another corridor, where there were more steps.
We climbed down the steps as we came to another hallway with doors on each side. Servants hurried past me, not seeming to notice was in their presence, but I couldn't seem to care that they didn't bow or anything. Merlin sidestepped a few as I shuffled awkwardly, while he was clearly use to the rush of a servant, I just stared at all of the maids and servant boys running past.
"They are all focused on what they have to do, so they don't properly notice those around them. It's a bit daunting when you're not use to it, I remember when I first became Arthur's servant and I had so much trouble finding his breakfast on the first day." Merlin said to as I smiled while we went to the door most had exited from.
Merlin opened the door and went in as I followed him inside as I coughed delicately when steam entered my lungs. The kitchens were loud, with people carrying plates, pots of boiling water and chopping up foods.
"Are you hungry? I can get you something if you want." Merlin asked as I smiled at him. Despite the fact I wasn't hungry, I couldn't feel as if I could deny Merlin of all people's offer. "I'll see what I can get."
He walked off into the busier part of the kitchen while I stayed by the door as I waited. I stayed in the shadows, meaning that nobody saw me as they all kept working. "Oi! Not my dumplings you little thief!"
I jumped at that as I stepped forward slightly and peered through the servants to try and see what was happening. Some servants stopped working to stair and I managed to peek through a small gap of bodies to see a fat woman, the head chef who I recognized from the case with Ban, facing Merlin.
"They're for the Princess." Merlin explained, as the head cook scoffed.
"I don't believe you! You're trouble, that's what you are! I don't like your grubby fingers in my kitchen, you little liar!" My eyes narrowed at her as she huffed loudly. "Now get out of my kitchen."
"I was getting the King's shirt and something for the Princess to eat-"
"Do you think I'd believe you boy? I said get out!" The cook was holding a large spoon in her hand, as she whacked Merlin's hand with it, making him drop the dumpling as it rolled on the ground towards me. "Look what you did, you stupid boy!"
Who does she think she is to speak to Merlin in such a way? I walked forward with my hands clasped in front of me and my head high as I get my face expressionless with a stern glint in my eye, much like what Gwen looks like when she's serious. A few servants gasped when they saw me as they parted and I walked forward, stopping as the dumpling rolled in front of me and stopped. I cleared my throat as the head cook's eyes went to where the dumpling was, before catching sight of my silk heals. They then traveled up my red silk dress, seeing the expensive gold thread which patterned the front panel of my skirt. Her eyes went up, coming to my bodice, decorated in gold thread and little rubies. She then went further up where she came to my unamused face. Her eyes widened and she, like many others, dropped to a bow, well, except for Merlin who seemed to be enjoying the expressions on everyone's face.
"Milady." The head cook gasped as my eyes stayed on her and I took in a deep breath.
"Is there an issue going on here?" I questioned in an authoritative voice as the head cook paled. "I didn't realize that Merlin fetching me a snack would cause such a problem."
"Milady, there is no problem with you having a snack." The head cook rushed to say, as I raised an eyebrow and stepped closer.
"It didn't seem that way to me. Not by what you were saying to my dear friend here." I pretended to act all innocent as Merlin hid his grin behind his back. "Is there be something Arthur should be aware of concerning his manservant? You see, Arthur is very fond of Merlin and he sees Merlin as someone he has taught very much. He will be very upset if Merlin has caused a controversy by aiding me."
"No, he hasn't caused anything bad, milady, not at all." She bowed deeper and I didn't feel like telling her that technically she was meant to curtsy to me.
"What is your name?" I stepped closer, over the top of the dumplings as the cook started to shiver.
"Audrey, milady." She answered and I stared down at her.
"I feel so sorry for you, Audrey." I winked at Merlin while she wasn't looking, and he seemed to have a mischievous look, but he was also a little bemused. "That you have such a tough situation with Merlin, you see, Arthur values Merlin like the brother he never had. And if Merlin went to him and said that you or any other person was treating him appallingly…well, you'd be in the dungeons before you could say 'dumplings'." I gave her a sad look and her eyes widened.
"The King would do that?" She asked, as I nodded, looking serious.
"Yes, he, Guinevere and Morgana care a lot for Merlin, as well as the knights. And myself." I placed my hand on her sweaty and dirty shoulder which surprised everyone. "Please get off the floor, Audrey, you've stayed there long enough. Now, please remember, if Merlin goes to Arthur to complain, you could get into serious trouble. Not just for making Merlin upset, but if Merlin feels that you mistreat all the other servants, he could go to Arthur about that too. Just be careful. Now," I turned back to Merlin and smiled Merlin. "Have you gotten Arthur's shirt? I'll just skip on my snack Merlin, now, come along Merlin, you need to get back to Arthur and I have to find my maid."
With that, I left with an exaggerated turn which might've possibly caused Audrey to be whacked in the face with the red silk of my skirt…might've…very possibly. Followed me quickly, passing Audrey as we left the kitchen as walked out of the hallway before turning around into the next corridor, where we both stopped and burst into laughter.
"Did you see her face?" I wheezed as Merlin nodded.
"Milady." Merlin copied Audrey's tone which caused as to erupt into more hysterics. "Thank you for doing that Amity, it made my day."
I grinned up at him. "Well, if she bullies you anymore, come straight to me and I'll sort her out…not that I'm expecting her to actually bully you anymore."
"I was not bullied by her!" Merlin protested and I raised an eyebrow.
"Merlin that was bullying. Very obvious bullying. More obvious than when Arthur is having a bad day." I said seriously, before we laughed again and started to walk down the corridor.
"So now you've dealt with the head cook, how about you deal with Arthur too?" Merlin joked and I chortled.
"Sure, as if my word would stop him from behaving like he does to you." I turned to face Merlin as we stopped walking down the corridor. "Merlin, Arthur acts the way he does around you because he does care about you, but he plays it off as if you're just another servant. But you're more than a servant to him, you are like his brother."
Merlin smiled at me when there was suddenly footsteps coming down the corridor. We both looked to my right and stepped back from each other as I saw Lady Helaine strolling down the corridor. She was dressed in a simple blue dress with a gold belt. Her mocha skin contrasted to the paleness of the dress, although her eyes were the same colour of blue. She curtsied to me, which I returned and stood up straight.
"Lady Helaine, I didn't expect to see you here." I said as she smiled.
"Nor did I expect to see you, Princess Amity." She gave me a smile in response as mine tightened and turned more forceful.
"What brings you down here?" I asked as she shrugged.
"I was interested in exploring Camelot. I must say, this castle is amazing." She said and I nodded.
"Thank you, it is many years old, but the Pendragons have taken very good care of it." I replied as she stepped forward again. "Can I point you in any direction or are you still happy wandering?"
"Oh, I am fine. I enjoy observing how a castle looks and works. It's been a while since I've been in one." Lady Helaine said, as I bit my lip and a question that had been on everybody's mind has come to my lips.
"If it is not too personal, may I ask why you decided to challenge me?"
Lady Helaine studied me silently for a few moments, before finally speaking. "I heard of your excellence with fighting, milady, I wanted to experience it firsthand."
I bowed my head slightly, as if accepting her response, while all that was going through my head was that she was lying. "Well, I am flattered, Lady Helaine."
I looked back up to see that she smiled, but then my eyes widened when I saw the blue of her eyes were beginning to become purple. I shared a look with Merlin, who had also seemed to notice, as Lady Helaine averted her eyes. "I best be going, the battle will commence soon. I look forward to seeing you there, Princess Amity."
She curtsied and it gave me another chance to see that her eyes were practically all purple, except for their pupils. Merlin and I stayed where we were, stunned, for a few moments before I turned to him. "Did you see her eyes? Tell me I'm not the only one who saw them."
"No, you weren't." Merlin muttered as he stumbled back.
"Merlin? Are you okay?" I asked as he seemed to be thinking.
His eyes darted to me and he gave me a weak smile. "Excuse me, Amity, I need to go give Arthur his shirt."
With that, he fled down the corridor, practically running as I stood still, staring after him. "Merlin?" My whisper floated through the air, but there was no response.
(3rd Person P.O.V)
"Gaius! I need to speak to you. It's about Lady Helaine." Merlin shouted as he ran into Gaius quarters, and shut the door behind him, turning to see that Morgana, Arthur and Gwen were there. "Whoops." He muttered after Gaius gave him a dirty look.
"What do you know about Lady Helaine?" Arthur questioned as Merlin shuffled on his feet. "Now Merlin, if my ward is in more danger than she's meant to be, then I suggest you tell me now."
"Well, we were just talking to her-"
"We? Who is we?" Arthur's eyes narrowed and Merlin swallowed thickly.
"Amity and myself."
"Why are you two constantly together-"
"Arthur," Gwen interrupted. "Now really isn't the time to try and warn off any potential suitors."
"Merlin, a potential suitor." Arthur snorted and Morgana shot him a disgusted look.
"Continue Merlin." She said and Merlin nodded slightly.
"Well, we started talking to her and partway during the conversation, her eyes, which were blue to begin with, started turning purple. Then they were practically fully purple and she ran off, saying she had to get ready. I don't know about you, but having a lady who has challenged a Princess, who is a future Queen, to a match when her eyes change colour and to a very unusual colour doesn't sound good to me." Merlin said quickly and everyone stayed silent as they took it in.
"Are you suggesting that Amity is about to fight someone who is magical?" Arthur questioned as Merlin nodded. "Then we must stop the fight."
"There is no way for her to get out of it, sire, you know that. She accepted the challenge, now she must fight it." Gaius said and Arthur shook his head.
"I will not let her fight against sorcery." He insisted.
"I will look into something to help her." Gaius said, as Arthur sighed and stood up, Gwen copying his actions.
"Very well, please, do something quickly, Gaius, before the tournament." Arthur said and Gaius nodded as the King and Queen left the room, leaving Merlin wondering why they were in Gaius' quarters to begin with.
Gaius then exhaled deeply and turned to Morgana and Merlin. "This is worrying, for there is little known about creatures with eyes that turn purple. At least not ones who can change their eye colour. However, I can guess that she will need protection. I believe that she will need magic to protect her."
"How are we going to protect her with magic? It's not like she'd allow us to cast a spell on her, she hates it." Morgana countered as Gaius walked over to bookshelf and started to read through titles, before grabbing one.
"Here, this one should tell us something." He said as he placed it onto his table.
Merlin and Morgana crowded around him to peer over his shoulders. They watched as he flicked through the pages and soon stopped at page 51, titled Protection. They quickly scanned through the page as Morgana gasped.
"That one!" She pointed to a sentence on the page. "The Unwær Fæstnung."
"Unaware Protection." Merlin translated in a mutter, as Gaius nodded.
"It says here that we need to use an object which the individual will wear for the spell to work. Then, when there is a threat of magic, the object will protect them." Gaius said, as the two dark haired people beside him nodded.
"But what can we give Amity which she would wear in a fight?" Merlin questioned, as they stayed silent.
Morgana's eyes lit up. "I know! I have the perfect thing!"
"What?" Gaius questioned and Morgana grinned.
"It's an old bracelet I bought, but it looks new because I never ended up wearing it often, it was too simple for my tastes, but perfect for Amity. Merlin, you could say that you bought it for her as a good luck gift, it's simple enough that a servant boy could've bought it." Morgana turned to Merlin whose eyes widened.
"Morgana, why should I give her a bracelet? Wouldn't it be taken the wrong way?" Merlin spluttered as Morgana rolled her eyes.
"She knows about my magic, she wouldn't completely trust me. She may not be declaring that I'm a witch, but she isn't as friendly towards me anymore, nor does she completely accept my magic. However, she doesn't know about your secret, and for some other reasons, she would be more likely to wear it." Morgana explained and Merlin sighed and gave in.
"Fine, I'll give it to her. Just don't tell Arthur it was from me or he'll have my head for flirting with his ward or something."
(Amity P.O.V)
"Thank you Esme." I said, feeling nauseous from nerves as Esme finished doing up the clasps on my blue cloak.
Esme gave me a weak smile. "It's a part of my job, Amity."
"For more than helping me get my armor on. I meant thank you for everything you've done for me. You have been an amazing and loyal friend." I said as her smile grew larger.
"Thank you for being an amazing princess to be a maid for and for being a loyal friend." She responded as I pulled her into a hug and she held on tight. "Please, make it out alive in this battle today. Camelot and Lexador will be ruined if you were not to make it."
"I'll do everything in my power to make it through." I said before pulling back and clearing my throat, my hand pushing stray hairs from my very tight braid back. "Now, I need my sword."
Esme nodded and walked to the table where she grabbed my sword and belt and made her way back to me. She gave me the sword to hold while she helped with my belt, tightening it. I sheathed the sword as soon as the belt was clasped properly, just as Elyan poked his head into the tent.
"Amity, Merlin wishes to speak to you." He said, as I shared a surprised look with Esme.
"Allow him in, then." I said, turning around to see Merlin walking in, carrying a small paper bag.
"Do you mind if I speak to you, Amity?" His eyes went to Esme. "Privately."
My heart raced at that as Esme made an odd noise in the back of her throat. "Of course, do you mind giving us a few moments, Esme?"
Esme hesitantly nodded. "I'll be outside if you need me."
She left, avoiding looking at Merlin as the tent flap shut behind her. "What is it, Merlin?"
Merlin bit his lip as he stepped forward and held the paper bag out to me. "I…bought you something…as a…er…lucky charm." I gave me an awkward smile as I moved forward.
"Aw, that's sweet." I grinned at him, as my stomach seemed to be churning for different reasons now as I flushed.
I took the bag from him and began to peel it open, before reaching inside as my hand came into contact with a cold metal. I pulled out the object and in front of me was a silver bracelet with intricate designs, and in the centre was a ruby. I gasped as the ruby gleamed, and despite not being very big, or fancy, I grinned down at it before looking up at Merlin, who seemed to of gone very red.
"Thank you so much, Merlin! It means so much to me." I said, as he smiled sheepishly.
"Do you want help putting it on?" I paused at his suggestion. Can I wear it when I'm fighting? "I'm not sure…"
Merlin seemed to have a small panic attack at my response. "I'm sure you can fight with it on." He insisted and I bit my lip. "I'll put it on for you, if you want."
Merlin seemed very put out that I might not wear the bracelet. I might as well wear it, it was a gift for good luck. "Fine, you can put it on me."
I handed him the bracelet as he undid the clasps and I held my gloved hand out to him. I lifted the bracelet and brought it around my wrist, his hands shaking slightly. He did up the clasp, although it took a few attempts. "Sorry, I'm not use to these." He said, as I smiled.
"It's fine." I responded as he finished and I admired the bracelet, and the ruby seemed to shine brightly. "Thank you, I'll treasure it."
"And make sure you keep it on, alright?" Merlin said as I gave him a surprised look at his insistence and he blushed. "I mean, it is for good luck…even though it's some cheap thing-"
"Merlin, it's beautiful." I said, as I stepped closer to him and pulled him into a hug. He tensed slightly, before his arms came and wrapped around me as I felt the soothing and rhythmic beat of his heart against my face. "Thank you."
"You're welcome," Merlin said and I felt his breath brush against my head. "I'd better leave you, the tournament is about to start."
"Oh, yes." We released each other as I smiled up at him. "I suppose I'll see you afterwards."
Merlin's eyes went down to my bracelet before back up to my face. "You better." He teased, before hurriedly leaving the tent, leaving me, once again, by myself.
I walked towards the stadium, coming up to the section for my entrance where Arthur, Gwen, Morgana and Merlin were waiting. I smiled weakly at them as Arthur strode over and pulled me into his arms. "Be careful." He whispered into my ear. "I remember to not loosen your grip. Your footing should make up for it though, you have good footing. And I also have a gift for you. Merlin."
Arthur called for Merlin who made his way forward, holding a shield which was obviously old but kept in good condition. On the front was the Pendragon insignia as I gasped. "It's your shield from your tournaments."
"Yes, and I want you to have it." Arthur too it from Merlin as he let one arm off me. He brought it to me and a carefully took the shield from him. "Use it well."
I nodded and held on tighter for a few moments. "Thank you for everything you've done for me, Arthur. You are like a father to me."
"And you are my daughter." He said as he kissed my forehead and we slowly released each other.
I went to Morgana whose eyes went to my bracelet from Merlin and she seemed to relax slightly. "Good luck." She said, and we stared at each other for a few moments.
I know that things have been tense between us due to her magic, but when I'm possibly about to die, I think I'd prefer to die knowing I have her by my side again than without her. Which then led me to jumping at her and hugging her. "I forgive you." I whispered into her ear and she held on tighter.
"Thank you." Morgana replied as I let go and went to Gwen, who opened her arms and I walked into them.
"Make sure you come out alive, alright?" She pulled back slightly, trying to hide a smile as Arthur came to her side. "Your little brother or sister will want to meet you."
Wait, what? I looked between her and Arthur who were now grinning. "Wait? You're having a baby?"
"Yes Amity. Gaius confirmed it this morning when we went to visit him." Arthur replied as Gwen nodded and I leapt at them both, pulling them into tight hugs before freeing them quickly.
"Oh, I didn't hurt you? Or the baby? I'm sorry-" I rushed to say as they both laughed.
"No, I'm fine." Gwen responded as I sighed in relief and looked down at her stomach.
"You don't look very pregnant." I muttered and everyone burst into laughter.
"I'm only a few weeks along." Gwen explained as I grinned and nodded, as their attention went to the stadium which was getting filled up with viewers.
"We better get going to our seats." Arthur said, before looking at me one last time. "Be careful, we couldn't bear to lose you."
"I'll fight to the best of my ability." I promised and he smiled, patting me on my shoulder.
"That's my girl." He mumbled and I grinned at the praise, before he, Gwen and Morgana left to go get announced, Merlin following.
I took of my cape and handed it to Esme and Arthur, Gwen and Morgana were called. "It's time." Elyan said, handing me my helmet as I nodded and started to walk through the entrance to the arena as people cheered loudly.
Lady Helaine was already in the arena, standing in front of Arthur, a sword and shield in hand and her helmet already on. I took my place beside her as we both stared up at Arthur. The cheering slowly became softer as Arthur, Gwen and Morgana stood up.
"The fight is by knights' rules," Arthur said as everyone went silent to hear.
I peeked at Lady Helaine who stayed still until Arthur nodded and he, Gwen and Morgana sat down again. I lifted up my helmet and put it on, walking to the opposite end of the pitch as I put my arm around the loops on the back of Arthur's old shield, making sure it was secure before unsheathing my sword and twisting it in the air for a few moments. Lady Helaine was also getting prepared as I turned around to face her, my chainmail rattling. I noticed to myself that I was now fighting with both Lexador and Camelot crests on me, as Arthur's shield stood out and my colours on everything else were silver and blue.
We walked closer and the cheering started up again as I raised my sword and shield, prepared to fight. My grip on my sword tightened as I noticed that the ruby on the bracelet seemed to be glowing slightly. I stepped forward and brought my sword down as Lady Helaine raised her shield, blocking my hit and striking with her own. I jumped back and swiped again as we started to pick up the pace, our swords clashing. I pushed my sword behind her shield and yanked as her shield came off and flew a few metres away, landing on the floor. However, right when I got her shield off her, she brought her sword up and hit it under the edge of my helmet, making my helmet fly off, releasing my golden braid. I stumbled back as she then started to focus on hitting my shield, as I raised it defensively and shoved her back with it before lowering my sword and bringing it down against hers.
We pushed against each other before I raised my sword up sharply and it knocked her helmet off her head, showing her face which was flushed. I wiped sweat off my forehead and twisted the sword in my hand, gripping it as I noted that now, all she had was her sword. She ran forward and I brought my shield, but right when she looked like she was going for my shield, she knocked against my hand as my sword flew out of it. I cursed and I saw Arthur whack his hand against the edge of the barrier as his reminder to watch my grip went through my head.
I lifted the shield, blocking me from her fast blows as her sword came around the corner of my shield, obviously trying to pry it off me. Just as her sword finally got the right angle, the shield came off my hand, however, to sword got the bracelet Merlin had given me as it fell to the floor with the shield, flying back a few metres. I noted that Morgana lurched forward at that, her eyes widening in horror as Lady Helaine smirked. She raised her sword and I rolled out of the way and towards my sword right when she lowered it and it hit the ground where I had been. The people gasped as I grabbed my sword and brought it back and hit it against hers. In my head, it was as if Merlin was speaking to me, get the bracelet Amity, get it. I shook my head and ignored his voice.
We pushed against each other again, however, I got my sword against hers again and yanked as it went out of her hand and I smirked. She stumbled back and I went to push her to the ground when she suddenly raised her hand and I found myself soaring threw the air and landing harshly on the ground. I gasped and clutched my ribs on my left hand side as they burned painfully from the fall. My breaths became shallow as people screamed.
"She's a sorceress!" Arthur shouted.
Arthur leapt out of his seat, but due to the knights' code, he cannot stop the fight. Because I flew back so many metres, I was right next to my sword, which I picked up with my left hand, as my right hand was supporting my ribs. Dammit, that's my good hand. I tried to swap them over, but it hurt too much and my left hand didn't offer as much pressure required. I sighed and gave into the fact that I have to use my left hand to fight, as I experimentally twisted the sword in my hand. I sprinted at Lady Helaine who had picked up her sword again as I was recovering. I brought my sword against hers and gasped when my ribs ached from the movement. She shoved me back as I swiped again, my sword hitting hers. I took in a shallow breath and bit my lip as I hit the butt of my sword against her hand, forcing her sword out of it and with that, I brought mine forward as it went straight through her stomach. She gasped and I pushed deeper as the people began to cheer. I pulled it out and she staggered back, but then her eyes turned purple as I was suddenly thrown back again, landing heavily and rolling, my sword flying out of my hand and landing right beside Lady Helaine. My eyes searched for my shield, which was too far away as I crawled back and slowly got to my fight, supporting my ribs again as my eyes watered.
"You really thought your pitiful sword could injure me?" Lady Helaine smirked as she made her way towards me and I moved back.
"What are you?" I gasped as she raised her hand.
"You'll never guess." She responded, right as Morgana suddenly stood.
"Amity!" She shouted, Arthur's sword, which Merlin once mentioned was named Excalibur, in her hand as she threw it through the air.
I caught it in my left hand as I suddenly plunged it forward. Lady Helaine gasped as it went through her stomach again and a black mist seemed to emerge from her. "Argh!" She clutched her stomach and looked up at me before screaming loudly. "Brother!"
The mist suddenly grew as she disappeared in it and I stared in silence at where she was, as people started to cheer. I turned to look at Arthur, who looked like he was close to having a heart attack, before nodding at him and walking off the arena.
I sat on the patient's bed in Gaius' quarters as Arthur, Gwen and Morgana rushed inside, followed by Merlin. "Are you alright?" Arthur asked as he ran to myself, kneeling before me and placing his hands on my shoulders.
"Fine, nothing some of Gaius' expertise could fix." I responded, as Gaius finished tying the bandages around my ribs.
"It appears that she broken a few ribs, my lord. But she will recover." He said, as Arthur nodded and pulled me into a gentle hug.
"I was so scared." He admitted quietly into my ear so now one else could hear. "Don't you dare accept another challenge, missy, not from anyone."
"Yeah, yeah." I mumbled as he let go of me.
"Now, do you mind taking her back to her chambers, Arthur? I think what she needs is rest since I've done everything I can for now." Gaius said as Arthur nodded.
"Come on, I'll carry you."
(3rd Person P.O.V)
"Helaine!" Prince Cary caught his little half-sister as she gasped and started to fall after her teleportation. "Oh, Archer."
He lifted her and carried her to where his throne was, before sitting her there and watching her. She huffed and puffed as he peeled her armor off and examined her wounds. One in particular was very bloody and hissing as it bubbled. "Ah." She whimpered.
"How did this happen? You're meant to be invincible. It's in your blood." He whispered, horrified as all his plans seemed to be going to ruins.
"There's one thing which can hurt me." She looked up at him. "Dragons' breathe. The sword which belongs to the King was forged in dragons' breathe. Her blade did nothing to me but a small cut."
"But that's impossible." Prince Cary muttered. "How would the King have a sword forged in dragons breathe? It means he would have to have a dragon."
"This suggests as well…" Helaine winced as Prince Cary grabbed her hand. "That he also knows of a sorcerer. One in particular."
"You don't think." Prince Cary gasped as Helaine nodded.
"Emrys."
So that's it. I don't know when I'll post next time. Please favourite/review/follow and in case of you got confused, Helaine and Archer are the same person, Archer is just her nickname from Cary, who is her half-brother (ohhhhhh). Thanks to those who reviewed!
bilboswaggins2 –You'll have to wait and see how she responds to Merlin's magic, but I don't think you'll have to wait long…hint…hint ;) I'm glad I'm not as evil in that chapter :P I dunno, should it be Merity? I'm up to hearing how people feel about that name, but I'm fine with it. It beats writing Merlin and Amity every time :P Thanks for reviewing again! P.S. I started reading your fic about Lyanna this morning in between all my study, I haven't finished it yet but so far it is AMAZING! Argh, you're brilliant! :D
Guest (1) – Don't worry, I don't plan killing Esme off Thank you for reviewing!
Amy – I know that Amity was a bit cruel and bratty in the chapter, but I didn't want to make her reaction too unrealistic as she did grow up hearing anti-magic propaganda, as well as know that her family's murderer was a sorcerer. But it's fine you don't like her acting like a bitch, cause I didn't like it much either, but I wanted to keep her as in character as possible. Thanks for reviewing again! :D
Guest (2) – You're not the only one who didn't like Mark's death! :P Sorry but it had to be done for the story, you'll find out why later. Thanks for the review!
Guest (3) – Aww, thank you, you're so sweet! Thanks for reviewing!
Guest (4) – Trust me when I say there will be more Merlin coming up, as a few important things are going to happen in the next chapters. As a hint, I think it's time we see more of a bit of queen-like Amity, maybe some more fighting and mythical creatures :P Was that a good enough hint? :P Thanks for reviewing and I can promise you there will be more Merlin!
Guest (5) – I'm glad you liked Amity's reaction to Morgana's magic, I tried to make it as realistic as possible! I agree with you on how people create characters who have unlikely reactions and seem to perfect. It is VERY frustrating. I agree with you 100%, there often seems to be a lot of very typical types, like the arrogant but attractive prince and the adventure-seeking princess. I know how that feels! Thanks for reviewing and finding Amity' reaction brilliant!
Guest (6) – Thank you for being so understanding! It means a lot to me Haha, I won't let them send you death threats, or there won't be much Merity in the next few chapters :P Exams are important and thank you for liking my story and reviewing! x
Ok, that's all for reviews (wow, that was a lot of guest ones), I don't know when I'll update next, but I'll try and be soon. Thank you for reading!