Song: With or Without You
Characters: Gwen
Word Count: 320
She lived her life now with order. She got up at the same time, had her breakfast at the same time. She would look through any papers she needed to see, determined to miss nothing, and make a thorough job of it. She would allow herself time, to check up on Gaius, as he wasn't getting any younger. She would encourage him to accompany her on a leisurely stroll. They would sit in the palace gardens, discussing court business, then the next day's events. They would keep their mind on subjects that would distract them from their collective losses. Then she would squeeze Gaius's hand, and say in a voice of hope rather than certainty.
"I'm sure Merlin will come back to Camelot soon." She would give him her strongest smile, determined not to give into her tears. She knew the moment she spoke of Merlin, her memories of Arthur would fill her mind.
The last year had flown by so quickly. She had taken over as Queen, done her best to acquire the various skills of running Camelot efficiently. She knew the people were looking to her, to take the broken hearted Kingdom forward. She knew she would have to be strong for them. So she would make herself visible, keeping in touch with the ordinary citizens. She would make herself busy, so any sad feelings would be kept to a minimum.
At night time it was different though. Those would be full of memories, she would toss and turn, seeing him in her mind. In her dreams, sometimes she would just give into her emotions, let the feeling go, then she would come out feeling strong again. Like she was walking through a storm, trying to reach dry land. Then she would smile, and the greet the new day, and perform her duty once again, with a smile on her face.