AN: Hey! So here's just a little chapter. I hope you all enjoy!
Guest: Thank you for reading and enjoying! I am feeling better, thank you.
jb: Here you go. I hope you enjoy it.
Anonymous: Thanks so much!
Disclaimer: I don't own anything related to Merlin.
Chapter 24:We all want to be free
"Are you sure about this, Em?" Morgana questioned once she'd gotten her bearings from teleporting.
"Of course I am. It's important you meet people like you, like us." Emerlyn replied, straightening her red and gold gown, lowering the hood to expose her face.
"But what if they hate me? I'm Uther's ward; surely they'll curse me for that." Morgana continued, not at all reassured. She'd thought they'd have their normal training session tonight, not go seeking the druids out. She was not at all prepared for this and she hated Emerlyn just a little for forcing her into this situation with no notice.
"Nonsense. You are one of us and will be granted the same protection and friendship as those who seek peace. Now come."
Morgana followed Emerlyn towards a clearing, heartbeat loud in her ears with nerves and fear. But the younger witch was in her High Priestess mode and there was no denying her. It was impressive just how commanding Emerlyn was, especially when she knew full well just how clumsy she could be. It was a stark contrast between the normal Emerlyn and the powerful Emrys.
They stepped just inside a large clearing. The royal didn't know why they'd come to some random clearing, but she trusted Emerlyn and so stayed silent. She jumped, making an undignified squeak when an elderly man suddenly appeared out of thin air.
"Chief Adair, this is my friend, the Lady Morgana." The witch introduced, tugging the seer forward.
"Lady Morgana? The ward of Uther Pendragon?" Adair questioned, eyes sharp, assessing the older woman for a threat.
"Uh, yes, I—" Morgana stumbled, for the first time in her life unsure of herself.
"Lady Morgana is my dear, trusted friend Adair. She no more represents the king then I do. I trust her with my life." She is one of us, Adair, and she should be welcomed as all our kind who wishes for peace is. The chief met her eyes before turning back to Morgana and bowing.
"You are welcome among us, Lady Morgana."
"Thank you, Chief Adair." Morgana curtsied, not knowing what the proper protocol was.
"I've come to check on the concealment spell and ensure the camp's wellbeing."
"Of course, my lady." Adair offered his arm. Morgana glanced at Emerlyn before taking the arm and letting him lead her forward.
One moment the clearing was completely empty, and the next they were stepping into a large settlement. Morgana's eyes were wide as she took it all in; the small stone cottages that looked new and unblemished with a well located in the center. There were numerous small gardens and a large field that had wheat planted in neat rows. It was a proper self-sufficient little village, hidden to those who would destroy it. It was marvelous.
Emerlyn inspected the buried crystals, judging their strength and power. It would not be good if the crystals failed before Uther was dead and the more magic-tolerant Arthur took the throne. While she was working, Adair introduced Morgana to the druids, reassuring them of her loyalty to Emrys and her own hidden talents.
When Emerlyn was finished, she found Morgana seated in the gathering area, elders mingling around while she spoke to a middle aged woman.
"The crystals are still strong. The concealment spell will not falter." She announced, waving at the few children that were motioning excitedly at her.
"Most appreciated, my lady. We finished building the last home two weeks ago; it is a gift to know we are still safe. Thank you, my lady." Adair nodded, which she returned before going to Morgana.
"Emerlyn. Have you met Farina? Her grandmother was a seer!" Morgana said excitedly, amazed to finally be able to be completely open and free. She got that with Emerlyn during their training sessions, but it was wondrous to speak to others that shared her gifts. It made her settle a little more comfortably within her skin, even with the threat of Uther still hanging over her head. It was a shared fear among all here and she no longer felt so alone.
"Yes, how are you, Farina? I do hope your mother is feeling better." Emerlyn smiled at the redhead, who returned it.
"She is fully recovered, my lady. The potions you provided worked wonders, thank you." Farina grinned, her face bright with happiness.
"I'm glad. If there is ever a need of me, you know where to find me." The druid nodded and gave a clumsy curtsy, smiling at Morgana again before dashing into the crowd.
"This is wonderful, Emerlyn. What you've given them by hiding their camp…it is beyond words. To be able to live free, to live as you were born to live, without the fear of persecution…it is a dream I wish to share one day." The witch blushed at the praise, eyes roving over the happy people, her heart swelling. They were at such a different state of being now than when she'd first come to them; she was grateful for being a part of what allowed them that change.
"I have only given what they should have always had. Tis my hope the day will come when they no longer have to hide or fear being hunted like animals."
"That day is far off still with Uther upon the throne." Morgana grumbled, her good mood wilting at the thought of her guardian and what he would do to her, to Emerlyn, to all of them. This village would be destroyed, nothing but ash and ghosts if Uther ever discovered their existence.
"Uther's reign will end, Morgana, and I doubt it is that far in the future."
"Do you truly believe Arthur will repeal the laws when he is king? It's almost impossible to fathom such a thing, knowing how Uther raised him…us to hate magic." Morgana's expression was earnest, nearly begging in her hope that magic would one day be lawful again.
"It does seem implausible at times, but I believe Arthur will fulfill his destiny. The land of Albion will be united and healed." Emerlyn's reply was serious and heartfelt, the witch believing her words completely.
"How do we begin to turn Arthur's beliefs without revealing ourselves? Surely if he is to remove the unjust laws against magic, he'd need to understand and sympathize with out plight. To do so would take years before he'd be willing to listen to reason and remove his father's teachings from mind."
"You've forgotten Arthur knows of my secret and hasn't told Uther; he's even asked me to perform magic for him. Arthur has already grown immensely from the arrogant prat I met upon my first arrival. He knows magic is not innately evil and that everyone who practices it should be free to do so, in as long as they don't harm others. Change won't happen immediately, but I'm sure he'll begin the process once his seat on the throne is secure."
"Secure? You think he could be challenged?" Morgana's eyes widened at the very idea. Arthur was the natural born heir and first in line to reign, which could not under any circumstances be called into question.
"The possibility is there, chiefly if Arthur's first action as king is to repeal the law with no warning or preparation. Those that follow and agree with Uther will not be easily swayed."
The seer nodded, seeing Emerlyn's point. The nobles, in particular the older generation, would surely take issue with such an act and could possibly revolt against Arthur if such drastic change was implemented with no former contemplation and discussion.
"I think that's quite enough of all this serious talk. We still have more camps to see; we should make our farewells." Emerlyn hopped up, pausing to straighten her gown before dashing away. It didn't seem to matter she was a High Priestess, there was no changing the excited, sarcastic woman. Thank the Goddess for it, or else their lives would be infinitely more boring.
Morgana followed after her friend, heart lighter and the fear that plagued her diminishing to a soft ember. Meeting the druids, knowing that she was accepted among their people, was a gift she never thought she'd receive. Their thrust in Emrys, and Emerlyn's trust in Arthur, made the seer hopeful that the future of peace and freedom they all desired was actually possible. Even more, that it was attainable.
/*/
Emerlyn peeked around a pillar, scanning the dark courtyard to ensure it was completely empty. A patrolling knight wandered past before disappearing around the corner, leaving the cost clear. Thunder rolled across the sky, a storm on the brink of outbreak.
Taking her chance, Emerlyn hurried across the courtyard, dragging her bounty with her, grateful her magic responded to her need for it to be lighter. It wouldn't do to be caught out like this. She hurried down into the immense cavern, setting her offering near the ledge as the great dragon swooped down from his high perch.
"I had thought you abandoned your visits." Kilgharrah said, voice booming and echoing off the stone prison.
"Sorry. It's been busy and I haven't had an opportunity to slip away." Emerlyn relied, crouching to unwrap the sheet and reveal the large boar and buck she'd dragged with her, gifted by the druids.
"Has your absence provided clarity on my freedom?" Sighing, the witch stood and crossed her arms.
"If you keep to your oath not to harm Camelot or her people then I…what is that…" She trailed off, voices suddenly sounding in her head.
"Take the north door. Straight ahead. Keep going."
"What is it?"
"I think—"
"Keep going. Hurry."
"Mordred. He's here." She revealed, head tilted as she listened.
"His presence does not bode well; I've warned you he is Arthur's doom. You must eliminate the boy before he fulfills his destiny, young witch."
"Yes, yes, I know. I need to go stop him. Enjoy the meat." She dashed out before the dragon could respond, making him huff a huge breath of irritation.
"It's not much further now."
Emerlyn hurried back to the citadel, her heart hammering violently against her ribs. Rhiannon had been very clear that Mordred had to die before he could kill Arthur, but was she really ready to end a small boy's life? Did she risk allowing him to escape, to grow in both strength and power? Or did she cut his life short tonight before he can be much of a threat?
"Morgana's chamber is next."
Shaking her head to clear it of the unanswered dilemma, she took off towards the seer's room. Her extensive training is the only thing that allowed her to get up the endless flights of stairs. Seriously, how many floors does a castle really need?
She was turning a corner when Arthur's voice sounded, reprimanding the guards, before she was suddenly against the wall, the prince's hand at her throat.
"Emerlyn." His face clouded with confusion, having thought she was an intruder.
"M-Morgana's…Morgana's chambers." She tried to get out, but he still hadn't released his grip, making it difficult to speak. When he became aware, he let go quickly, eyes flashing in apology and worry.
"Sorry. What are you doing here? You said your head hurt and you wanted to turn in." He was not pouting about her not being in his bed. He wasn't.
"I heard them. They're in Morgana's chambers." She explained, panting.
Arthur didn't even pause to ask how she'd heard the intruders when her chambers were clear across the castle. He took off towards his sort-of sister's rooms, desperate to get to her before she was harmed.
"Are you sure about this?" He demanded as they hurried. Emerlyn gave him a look, conveying her indignation at being doubted.
"Yes Arthur, I know they're there."
"How?" He barely got the question out before her expression turned to exacerbation.
"You know how." She whispered fiercely, keenly aware of the guards following behind them. Arthur snapped his mouth closed, understanding. Magic.
When they reached Morgana's door, Arthur kicked it open, rushing in with sword drawn. Emerlyn followed on his heels.
"What on earth are you doing?" Morgana demanded in outrage, clutching her bedding to her chest. Arthur scanned the dark room, sharing a confused look with his servant.
"I…I had reason to believe that there was an intruder in here." The prince replied, embarrassment tinging his words.
"Right now Arthur, the only intruder is you." She retorted smartly.
"Camelot has been infiltrated. Did you not hear the warning bell?"
"Of course I did. I was hoping I'd be safe in my chambers."
"Well, if you'll just permit me to search your room."
"You'll do no such thing!" Morgana said sharply, defensively, making his brows arch.
Emerlyn was focused on the low hum of magic she could feel coming from a dark corner. She remained silent, still undecided on what course of action to take.
"Don't you think if there was someone in my room, I would know about it?" The seer questioned sardonically, refusing to meet Emerlyn's eyes, knowing she'd see the lie. Arthur debated a moment before grunting, knowing it was a lost battle.
"Please accept my apologies." He said, voice gruff in annoyance. He turned, heading back towards the door, the guards exiting before him. Emerlyn stepped aside before he could push her out the door, their eyes meeting. He read her silent "I need a minute" in the way her shoulders were set and the jut of her chin.
"See to the Lady Morgana. Ensure she has everything she needs." He commanded before leaving, shutting the door firmly behind him.
The two women stared at each other for several moments, the silence stretching with tension.
"If you think I am unaware of your presence, Mordred, you are mistaken." Emerlyn said finally, voice directed toward that dark corner. Morgana gave a small gasp, eyes wide, quickly moving from the bed.
Mordred and an older man Emerlyn didn't know stepped into the open. The boy stood slightly behind Morgana, small hand grasping her skirt.
"Emerlyn, I—"
"I care not for their reason for coming here because they're leaving immediately." The man stood tall, stepping in front of the other two.
"Mordred wished to visit the woman who'd helped him escape execution." He said, voice smooth and charming.
"You must leave Camelot immediately before Arthur discovers you." Emerlyn said, eyes narrowed, not charmed. But she couldn't bring herself to slay the child, even knowing what she did of his destiny.
"Certainly." He nodded and turned to face Morgana.
"My lady, it was a pleasure. I hope our paths cross again."
"Yes, Morgana. I miss you." Mordred's eyes were wide, staring up at her pleadingly.
"I wish it too. Go now, be safe." She gave the child a hug and nodded at Alvarr, who returned it before the two were escaping.
"I would have told you. I just…Arthur barged in and they'd have been killed." Morgana tried to explain, not liking the look Emerlyn was giving her. It was one of disappointment and irritation, an expression the seer had never gotten from her friend.
"Why were they here? Who was that man?" Emerlyn demanded, arms crossed, watching her intently. Morgana sat on the edge of her bed, fidgeting with her night gown, not sure why Emerlyn was so upset.
"His name is Alvarr. He…has magic."
"Why were they here? Why risk being caught and executed?"
The seer's lips pinched into a thin line, eyes focused on her bare feet. Emerlyn stepped closer, her magic soaring through her until she was practically vibrating.
"Morgana." It was only one word, but it was said with the authority of a High Priestess. Morgana flinched a little before looking up, meeting her friend's gaze, feeling compelled to be honest.
"There's a crystal in the vaults. It's some type of weapon." Sighing, Emerlyn crouched until she was at eye level, hands clasping Morgana's tightly.
"They want to steal it?" Morgana nodded, hating herself for betraying them.
"Morgana, if they want a weapon, then you know they intend to hurt people, don't you? There would be no other reason for a weapon." She said gently.
"They just want to be free, Emerlyn! What's so wrong with that?" She demanded.
"Nothing, but using violence in its pursuit is wrong. I've made allies of all the druids that are peaceful; the others are renegades and determined to kill Uther by whatever means necessary." Morgana pushed Emerlyn away and stood, pacing in agitation.
"You keep saying that's a bad thing, but the longer Uther is alive, the more people like us are hunted and killed! If Alvarr could use the crystal, Uther would be dead and we could finally be free of his tyranny." Standing, Emerlyn grabbed at Morgana until the seer was forced to stop.
"If it were that easy, I would not save his life. But you know Arthur, you know would be devastated and that would leave Camelot vulnerable to enemies and we could even end up in war. Do you want that?" They looked at each other before Morgana's shoulders slumped and she shook her head.
"No."
"Neither do I. I despise the very air Uther breathes, but I am not going to jeopardize Camelot's future just to be rid of a tyrant. Uther will get his due when the time is right. We must be patient."
"And what of those condemned to death?"
"I will help all those I can."
"I just want to be free to be who I am." Morgana mumbled, body heavy as the adrenaline left her.
"I do as well. But using magic as a weapon, when not in defense, isn't what magic is for; it's wrong. That's the very thing Uther accuses us of and to do so would make him right. How are things to ever change if people keep proving Uther has justification for his bans?"
"I know, you're right. I just grow impatient for the day I no longer have to fear for my life."
"A fault we both share. I need to see Arthur and warn him of their plans." Emerlyn dropped her hand and started towards the door, pausing before she reached it to look back at her.
"Morgana, I know you feel drawn to Mordred, but he is not to be trusted."
"What? Why?"
"He is destined to kill Arthur." She revealed before disappearing, leaving Morgana gaping after her. Surely Emerlyn was mistaken. Right?
/*/
"Well? Did you make me look like an idiot for a reason?" Arthur demanded when she entered his rooms the next morning. They hadn't had a chance to speak the night before, the hour being late and Arthur having to continue to search for the intruder.
"It was Mordred. Morgana hid him." Emerlyn supplied, setting the platter of food on the table before going to the wardrobe and pulling out Arthur's clothes for the day. It was sad that he was a grown man and still required a servant to dress him. The privilege of nobility; i.e. the luxury of being absolutely dependent on servants for everything. It really was ridiculous.
"Mordred? The druid boy? Why was he here? If they would've caught him, he'd have been executed." Arthur pushed his blankets away, yawning and stretching, exhausted from the long night.
"The man he was traveling with wants to steal a crystal from the vaults. It's some type of weapon." The prince bolted to his feet at her words, attention solely focused on her.
"Why didn't you tell me this last night? They could've already stolen it! Idiot!" He scowled angrily, marching to roughly grab the clothes from her hands.
"No, the vaults are impenetrable. They'd need the key and they can't get to it, so I think it's safe. There hasn't been a bell and the guards have had time to notice if it was gone."
"What if they used magic? Can't you open locked doors?" He arched a brow, not bothering to slip behind the privacy screen before he dropped his pants.
"Of course I can open locked doors, you clotpole. The guards still would have noticed the crystal's absence this morning, but there hasn't been any alarm." Arthur rolled his eyes at her, tying his trousers.
"How is this crystal a weapon? The only crystal I know in the vaults is the Crystal of Neahtid, but I don't know anything about it." Emerlyn looked up at his words, eyes wide.
"The Crystal of Neahtid is here, in Camelot?" The prince straightened at her awestruck tone, shoulders tightening, unsure how he felt about her sudden interest.
"Yes?"
"Arthur, that crystal is a piece of the Crystal Cave, the birthplace of magic. It can show you the past, present, and the future. If one had the power to actually use the crystal, they would have a massive advantage in, say, a war against King Uther." Emerlyn explained, grabbing the apple off his platter and tossing it to him. Arthur took a large bite, walking closer as he chewed.
"Do the renegades have someone who could use it?"
"That level of power if rare, even among my people. Alvarr certainly doesn't wield it; but, Mordred could possibly grow to master it. It would take time, but they've been patient so far, so what is a few more years when they possess such a weapon?" She shrugged, hands flattening his tunic, straightening the wrinkles.
"They must never get their hands on it, then. I will gather the knights and we'll find these renegades and put an end to their schemes."
"Arthur, no. I…I don't believe in how they go about things, but you can't just go kill them all when they haven't actually done anything."
"What about the knights they killed to impersonate?" He asked with heat, angry she held such little regard to those that protect Camelot.
"I'm not saying they don't deserve to be punished, but they don't deserve to be executed for following a man who uses terror to advance his cause. Just like the knights don't deserve to be killed for following Uther, who has an abundance of innocent blood on his hands." She replied, face set and body tense. Arthur glared down at her.
"What would you have me do? Let them get away with what they've done?" He demanded, lips pulled down in a fierce scowl. Emerlyn stepped back, eyes locked with his.
"They won't get away with it, Arthur. I'm going to their camp and I'll punish those responsible."
"You can't go by yourself, don't be an idiot." He tried to grip her shoulder, but Emerlyn shook her head and stepped back another pace.
"You forget, sire, that I am more than able to look after myself. One of their own should be the one to seek retribution, as their actions put the future of Camelot and the good you can do once you're king in jeopardy. I will not stand by and let those that wish to harm our home go unpunished." The witch declared, mind made up and shoulders straight.
"What if they try to hurt you?" Arthur's voice dropped into a growl, even just the thought of anyone hurting Emerlyn enraging him. She gave a small smile and stepped back into him, letting her arms rest upon his shoulders, her head tipping back to look up at him.
"Sire, I could level this city if I so wished. I doubt a few men with swords and tricks are going to be a problem." Emerlyn whispered, leaning on her toes to press a kiss to his scowling mouth. He resisted for a moment before his hands gripped her hips and pulled her flush against him, his mouth opening against hers.
Pulling away, Emerlyn rubbed their noses together before fully moving back, breaking their connection. The prince watched as she fixed the bed, grabbing the goblet of water as he watched her move around the room. When she was done, the witch grabbed up his dirty laundry and headed towards the door, stopping by the chair he'd taken to give him a light kiss.
"I'll be going now; I need to see if Mordred and Alvarr have returned to their camp and go deliver my message. You won't need me for the morning, right?" She asked, hip leaning against the door, basket clutched in hands.
"No, I'm sure I'll manage."
"Good. I'll see you when I return." Before he could protest more, she was gone, shutting the door quietly behind her.
Sighing, Arthur tucked into his poached eggs, wondering not for the first time why he loved the fool. It boggled the mind most days. He'd need to increase the vaults' guards to ensure the crystal remained where it was, because he didn't put it past the renegades to make further attempts. Emerlyn better return in perfect health or they were going to have harsh words, that much Arthur was certain of.
/*/
"I will never forgive you for this, Emrys. And I will never forget."
Mordred's parting words stuck in Emerlyn's mind, playing over and over as she prepared the pyres for the fallen druids. They may be been misguided in their loyalty to Alvarr, but they still deserved to be respected and given their proper send off to their next life. As a High Priestess of the Triple Goddess, it was her duty to ensure none of her people became stuck in the veil between life and death and she took that responsibility seriously.
She hated that she'd had to kill several of the renegades, including Alvarr, but they'd attacked her and had left her with little choice. Thankfully, however, the majority of the camp's residence had decided to surrender and agreed to remain peaceful in exchange for their lives. She didn't know if they'd hold to that promise, but at least they had the chance and could hopefully make better decisions and have faith that she was trying to hold to the prophecies.
It'd be a lot easier to fulfill her destiny if they would just stop trying to kill Uther. If they wanted him dead, then send a mercenary or someone versed in the art of death; but using magic was going to make it almost impossible to get the ban on magic eventually lifted. How could Arthur in good conscience repeal the law if his father was killed by magic, even knowing it can be used for good? These were things the renegades just didn't think about and it was getting tiring having to rehash her decision to allow Uther to live repeatedly.
Word would get out eventually that Emrys was working to help them instead of just helping the Pendragons stay alive. The sooner the better if it meant no one else had to die for being foolish and challenging those they couldn't hope to best. Emerlyn did not relish this part of her destiny and would be happy to never have to end someone's life again.
If only they'd give her that gift instead of staining her hands even more.
/*/
Arthur groaned, pushing into his rooms with tired limbs and a pounding headache. Instead of the dark deserted chambers he'd expected, he was met with the sight of Emerlyn standing by the table in only her shift. The table was laden with food and a steaming bath was set in front of the blazing fire, giving the room a welcoming feel that surrounded him like a warm embrace; it was a welcomed balm to the hellish day he'd endured. He did not run into her arms, but it was a close thing; only his years of learning proper decorum prevented such an undignified action.
"You look tired, sire." Emerlyn's voice was low and slightly husky, her thin shift nearly transparent, drawing his attention to the dark peaks of her breasts. Her hair was unbraided, combed into soft curls around her face and giving her an ethereal quality, her pale skin nearly glistening in the firelight. He nearly jumped when her hand landed on his shoulders, solid and real and not just a figment of his imagination.
"The king had us searching the entire city for the intruders." Arthur revealed, body leaning into hers unconsciously, drawn towards her warmth.
"How most unfortunate that there were no intruders to find, then. I imagine he was in a right mood when no one was found." She said, fingers working nimbly over his armor, removing each piece slowly.
With each piece removed, her hands would wander over the exposed padding, rubbing firmly to be felt before moving onto the next buckle. The prince watched her with hooded eyes, head going light as her scent surrounded him, intoxicating even as it warred with his own rank smell.
"He has demanded we resume our search in the morning before moving to the surrounding area." Emerlyn hummed in acknowledgement, placing his mail on the empty chair next to her before kneeling.
Arthur's breath caught as she removed his boots and breeches, her fingers trailing up his bare legs, nails scratching over his skin, following the path Emerlyn's hands took as they rose with her, lifting his padding and tunic up slowly unit he completely bare. She ignored his lengthening member, instead focusing on massaging his shoulders and neck, body pressed against his, making his skin itch at the feel of her shift.
"Perhaps the king will calm when the search proves fruitless." She murmured, hands sliding down until they gripped his and led him to the bath, leaving the mess for later.
"It is lucky he doesn't know it was druid renegades that infiltrated the city or there would be no peace until someone was executed."
"No matter of guilt." Emerlyn grabbed the coarse sponge while Arthur lowered himself into the nearly too-hot water, sighing happily. His body was sore and fatigued and the salts she'd added were already working their magic, loosening his knotted muscles. For all he knew, it really was magic.
"Arm." Emerlyn took the offered appendage, dipping the sponge in the water before scrubbing the dirt and grime off. Arthur watched her, the action more intimate then it'd ever been with other servants. Thank the heavens for that, or it would've been some very awkward bath times. Emerlyn didn't pamper him or bow to his title, so it was a treat that she took the time to show her affection in this way.
"You could join me." Arthur murmured, pupils wide, desire filling him.
"You're covered in dirt and sweat, I would rather not be as well." Emerlyn retorted, lips twitching at his huff and pout. Prat really didn't like not getting his way; one would think he'd be used to it by now.
The bathing continued in comfortable silence, Emerlyn concentrating on getting him scrubbed and buffed while Arthur let his lust build from an ember into a raging fire. She magically emptied the dirty water and refilled it to rinse hi before he stepped out and dried off, eyes intent on their target. Emerlyn had but a second before she was suddenly swept up and deposited on the bed, bouncing with the impact.
Arthur loomed over her, blue eyes blazing in want. Grabbing her ankle, he pulled her closer, her shift rising wit the movement to expose her thighs. His large calloused hands stroked the soft skin of her shins before sliding up, hooking behind her knees to pull her further, until her bottom rested against his erection. Leaning over her, his mouth found hers, claiming it in a searing kiss while his hands moved up, one settling on her hip and the other stroked the inside of her thigh on its journey towards her center.
Emerlyn arched against him when his fingers skimmed over her folds lightly, the swollen flesh sensitive to the lightest touch. Her hands wrapped around him, fingers squeezing and kneading his back, pulling him until he was lying on top of her and she locked her legs around him, holding him tight against her. His teeth nipped at her bottom lip before his tongue swept against his, soothing the sting before being granted entrance.
They kissed for several minutes before Arthur pulled away, trailing his mouth down to suck and bite the sensitive skin of her neck, helped by her tipping her head back with a quiet gasp, allowing for more access. The prince paid each side of her neck due attention before wandering down, nibbling on her collarbones and then down until he encountered a tightly puckered nipple. Emerlyn's fingers twisted in his short hair, a little mewl escaping as he lapped, tongue darting over the flesh in madly random patterns that left her uncertain of what he'd do next.
While his mouth was busy, Arthur's fingers worked over her center, spreading her slick and teasing her nub, earning small hip thrusts and her thighs tightening around him in reward. He worked a finger into her, groaning at the feel of her moist heat clenching around his digits. His thumb reached up to rub against her clit as he thrust his finger into her before adding a second one. Her muscles clutched him like hot silk, making him eager to replace hand with his excited erection.
Emerlyn gripped his shoulders and was suddenly moving, rolling over him and pushing Arthur down into the bed, his hand trapped between them, making his fingers jam sharply into her. She moaned, hips wiggling before she came back to herself and moved off him.
"Wha—" Arthur was cut off by Emerlyn's hand encircling his cock and giving it a firm squeeze as she lowered herself until her breath puffed against his head.
Arthur's head dropped back against the bed, hips thrusting, his member sliding through her hand, creating delicious friction. Swiping the clear liquid that bubbled from the slit of his head, Emerlyn used it and spit to slick the movements so she didn't chaff him. Alternating between stroking and squeezing, she soon had his hips moving against her until she forced him still with her magic, using it to pressure his hips to the bed to keep him from moving.
Ignoring his irritated grunt, the witch lowered her head, hand pulling the foreskin back to expose the entire head. She gave it a light kiss, lips barely skimming the soft skin before she trailed them down his entire length, growing firmer as she went, delighting in the noises she could pull from him. When she came back to the top and opened her mouth, sucking on the tip, Arthur groaned as his hands fisted in the blankets, wishing he could thrust his hips to get more of the moist heat of her mouth.
Emerlyn suckled on the head for a few minutes before moving down the shaft, tongue leaving a wet trail in her wake before returning to the tip and sucking him down again; only this time, she went further, swallowing him deeper. Setting up a rhythm, she bobbed her head, getting more of him inside with each downward stroke, until she couldn't take anymore and had to pull away before she choked.
Pulling the shaft up, she mouthed down it until she reached his sac, tonguing at the vulnerable skin. Arthur's voice when slightly high, his thighs twitching and his toes curling when she sucked one ball into her mouth gently. Her hands continued to jerk him, fingers stopping every once in a while to pass over the tip, nail just barely catching in the slit, making him grunt. His knuckles where white with the strength he was gripping the duvet, sweat breaking out over his skin as his body trembled.
"Em-lyn I—" Arthur's head tipped back, his stomach muscles clenching and unclenching, his sac beginning to draw towards his body.
Releasing him with a soft pop, Emerlyn smirked and climbed on top of him, hand reaching under her to line him up and sank down. She moaned as he filled her, hands untangling his from the blanket so their fingers could lace. Arthur braced his feet against the bed to give himself leverage to thrust up into her. Emerlyn set a slow pace, pushing against his hands to create tension and control, pulling her hips up and then lowering, milking his cock by purposefully flexing the muscles hidden within her.
Arthur tried to speed up, but Emerlyn refused, smirking down at him before diving for his mouth, laughing a little against his lips. Arthur huffed at her, making her laugh more and squeeze him tightly, hips giving a swirl that had her breath catching, that mysterious spot inside her making stars burst in front of her eyes.
Leaning back after another kiss, Emerlyn pulled her shift the rest of the way off, tossing it behind her and letting her hair fall around her. Arthur slid his hands onto her thighs, holding her tight as she moved, enthralled with the picture she created; riding him leisurely, eyes locked with his, hair skimming her over her breasts as she moved. She was stunning.
/*/
"I have to tell you something." Emerlyn murmured quietly, head pillowed on her arm on Arthur's chest, her other hand playing with his short chest hairs. Arthur's arms were crossed behind his head, a sated smile on his face.
"What?"
"You have to promise me you won't get mad." That got his attention, his eyes snapping to hers in alarm, knowing nothing that started like that could possibly be good.
"What did you do?" He demanded, pushing up to sit and making her go with him until they were sitting facing each other.
"Why do you think I've done something?" She retorted, making his brow arch mockingly.
"Because you're always doing something." Rolling her eyes, Emerlyn pushed her hair out of her face.
"You always think the worst." She pouted.
"Emerlyn."
"I'mgoingtoreleaseKilgharrah." She said quickly, fidgeting with the disordered duvet, not meeting his eyes.
"What?" Taking a breath, Emerlyn raised her eyes to meet his, shoulders straightening.
"I'm going to release Kilgharrah." She repeated, voice firm with her conviction. Arthur's mouth was hanging open, his eyes wide before his face clouded in confusion.
"Kilharrah? The dragon?"
"Kilgharrah. And yes, the dragon I told you about."
"You can't free a dragon!" He exclaimed in shock.
"Yes I can. He's been imprisoned for twenty years because your father is afraid of him, after killing all the others! You cannot think it is right or just to keep him locked in that cavern." She said, hackles rising at his reaction. He threw his hands up in exacerbation.
"It's a dragon! A fire breathing, man eating dragon!" The prince was nearly yelling by now, receiving a scowl and narrowed eyes before she jumped from the bed, dragging her shift up off the floor to slide into.
"Yes, I get that, you prat. But he doesn't deserve to be in prison all his life, Arthur!"
"What's to stop him from destroying Camelot? Surely he seeks revenge for what the king did to him." Arthur demanded, also getting off the bed, hands landing on his hips, mindless of his nudity.
"He's given his oath that he will not harm Camelot or her people." She replied hotly, irritation spiking at his bullheadedness. How he could make her go from blissed out happy to boiling with annoyance was a real talent, one she could do without sometimes.
"And you trust he'll keep such a promise? After, as you said, being imprisoned for twenty years?"
"Yes, Arthur, I do because he is a creature of magic and to so give your word means more than just a feeble human promise. Not that you'd understand." She muttered, making his expression cloud in hurt.
"That's not fair. It is not my fault I'm merely human." He grunted, arms crossing.
"Sorry." She mumbled, walking over to where she'd laid her dress and quickly pulling it on.
"I know there is a risk in freeing Kilgharrah, but I must take it. I swore I would release him when I felt it was safe and I mean to keep that promise. You don't have to like it, sire, but I am doing it and there is nothing you can say to stop me." Arthur frowned at her for a moment before his shoulders slumped and he found himself nodding, knowing there was no reasoning with the witch when she was like this.
"If you insist on this ridiculous plan, then I am coming with you." Arthur declared, bending to grab his breeches.
"What?" Emerlyn watched him in bewilderment while he quickly redressed.
"There's no telling what trouble you'll get into by yourself." He grunted, sitting to slide his boots on.
"Excuse me? I'm capable of releasing one dragon on my own, you clotpole." She huffed, irritated he thought so little of her abilities.
"You'd set the citadel ablaze by accident." The prince retorted, standing and grabbing his jacket, heading towards the door.
Rolling her eyes, Emerlyn hurried into her own boots before dashing after him. Catching up with him down the corridor, se bumped shoulders and turned in the right direction, a warmth filling her as they walked.
While Arthur was a master at annoying the hell out of her, her love and pride I him swelled in her breast. He'd come so far I his journey; he was actively helping her to free a magical creature with minimal hesitation; he loved her regardless that she had magic; he now saw that magic was not innately evil, that it was the people who wielded that power who used it for good or bad purposes. He was becoming a great man, and once his father was gone, he'd be a great king. It was a day she awaited with excitement and impatience.
They made the trip in silence, skirting patrols and well lit areas. It made it abundantly clear just how often she got up to sneaking around the castle and how lax their security was, which was alarming. If Emerlyn could sneak about so easily, then anyone familiar with the city that was an enemy could surely go about their schemes unnoticed. He'd have to tighten up on the knights and guards to ensure Camelot remained safe.
Arthur would never, not even under torture, admit to how his heart pounded in fear, his palms turning sweaty at his first glimpse of the giant beast looming in front of him. The dragon straightened, his massive wings spreading, taking up the width of the cavern. He was huge and majestic and absolutely terrifying.
"Why do you appear before me, Arthur Pendragon?" Kilgharrah's voice boomed, vibrating through his ribs until it was all he could hear.
"Uh—" Arthur's eyes raked over the creature before snapping to the witch, his mind going blank.
"We're here to free you, Kilgharrah." Emerlyn announced, stepping around Arthur's stiff form so she could see the dragon fully.
"Really? You've come to keep true to your promise?" Kilgharrah questioned in surprise, not expecting it to ever happen. His wings folded back against his body as he sat, more relaxed now that he knew the prince posed no threat.
"Yes. You've sworn not to harm Camelot, both kingdom and people, and I will trust you to keep such an oath."
"And you, young prince? Do you trust me not to burn your beloved city to ruin?" Now he was being the clotpole taunting, which really didn't do him any favors.
Arthur swallowed, throat tight with uncertainty. One the one hand, he didn't believe in his father's fanatic campaign against everything every magic and he trusted Emerlyn's judgement; but, on the other hand, Kilgharrah was a dragon, not a mere sorcerer, and could do immense damage if he so desired. Glancig towards his servant, he saw her hopeful expression, making his shoulders slump in resignation.
"I do not presume to know you well enough to give you my trust." Emerlyn's lips dropped, her eyes dimming.
"But, Emerlyn believes you'll not seek vengeance against my kingdom. I've learned that as ridiculous as she is at times, Emerlyn is a good judge of character." Her face brightened as he continued, a smile lighting her pretty face.
"I trust Emerlyn; if she thinks releasing you is the right thing to do, than I support her decision." Arthur finished, spine straightening and shoulders set.
"Well then, get to it young witch. It's been over twenty years since I felt the wind on my wings." Emerlyn stepped to the edge of the outcrop, loose rock falling with a nerve-wracking clatter.
"I will need to get to the collar to remove it. Unless you want to keep the chain…"
"Don't be daft." Arthur muttered behind her, eyeing the drop-off, fingers itching to pull her away from the fall and the dragon.
Kilgharrah extended a massive wing, shifting until it spanned the distance. He had to angle it downwards so as not to strike them, creating a slanted walkway. Emerlyn's mouth was agape for a moment before she come back to herself and gingerly began walking up the incline towards the dragon's back. She needed had worried about hurting him; his scales were thick, very capable of supporting her weight. When she finally reached him, without plummeting to her death thankfully, she situated herself across his back, right below where the collar rested.
The black metal was as thick as a cinderblock and rough, not a lot of care had been taken when forging the monstrosity. The links of the chain were equally huge, one link nearly as long as her torso and had to weigh a ton. Her eyes prickled, fingers edging under the collar to this skin that'd been rubbed raw and smooth from years of constant wear.
"Oh Kilgharrah." She murmured sadly, hating he'd been like this for two decades all because of a madman's fear and anger.
Taking a breath, Emerlyn placed her hands on the seam where the metal had been wielded together, centering herself and letting her magic fill her, making her fingertips tingle. She didn't have a specific spell that could get through the thick iron, but she could push all her magic towards breaking the collar.
It took several long minutes before she finally felt the metal beginning to soften, becoming just slightly more malleable. She had to shut her eyes as light started to glow between her hands and the metal. It was so bright she saw stars behind her eyelids and a scorching heat radiated out, making her break out into a sweat.
"Emerlyn!" Arthur's voice was muffled as if she was under water, the pressure nearly suffocating. She'd done more complicated spells, but the sheer power of will this was taking was staggering.
When the collar finally broke, the shockwave sent Emerlyn flying back, hands flailing to catch something, anything, to keep her from tumbling off the dragon. But her hands grasped nothing; a scream worked its way out of her throat before she was jerked out of the freefall by a claw. Emerlyn's eyes snapped back open, staring up at the dark ceiling of the cavern before she was being gently sat on the outcrop next to a very pale Arthur.
"Don't you ever do that again, idiot." Arthur muttered, grabbing at her and pulling her flush against him, his body trembling. Emerlyn just nodded and held on, her own body shaking from fear and adrenaline. She didn't know if the fall would actually kill her, being a High Priestess and all, but she really never wanted to test it.
Kilgharrah gave a happy roar and launched himself up into the air, wings flapping to get him high and higher. The couple watched as he disappeared, the sound of his wings soon vanishing as he left his cursed prison behind.
"I cannot believe you just did that." Arthur murmured against her hair, hands tight on her back, keeping her against him.
"I just want him to be free." She said quietly, resting her head against his shoulder, nose pressed into his neck.
"Let's go to bed."
Emerlyn allowed him to lead her out, looking over her shoulder, knowing her friend would never again be there. It was a little sad, but she was so happy she'd been able to grant him the one wish he'd had. Everyone, no matter who or what they were, deserved to be able to live their life in freedom. Now Kilgharrah had that, and hopefully soon, the rest of her people would share in such freedom.
AN: This chapter was short, but I thought you guys would like to read what I have written already instead of waiting. I hope you all enjoyed and please leave a comment and let me know what you thought.
No beta, all mistakes my own.