Chapter 25

Merlin

'So I need to decide who will come with me to see the druid chieftain.' I finished, looking at the faces of the members of the round table.

I took a step back when everyone got up, demanding to come along. What the hell? I can't take a small army with me. It'll scare people. God, I have to choose. Ah well, better get this over with.

'Lancelot, you're not coming. You're supposed to be making certain plans, remember?' I said, Lancelot giving me a look.

'Gwaine, Elyan, Leon, Percival and Gwen, I'd rather you stay here with Lancelot and Gaius since he's declined to go.' I said, quickly eliminating all those who weren't required to be present.

Instantly, there was protest. I whistled loud and everyone turned their eyes on me irritably. Explanations, right.

'Arthur and Aria will be the only ones coming with me because Aria's destiny is with me and mine is with Arthur. We will reassemble to discuss what the druids have to tell us once we get back.' I said, trying to use a tone of authority so they would get it.

There were a bunch of grumbles as everyone left. The only sensible one being Gwen. She stopped to kiss Arthur goodbye and gave me and Aria a hug each, telling us to be careful. I smiled my assurance and nodded at Arthur and Aria. We left the castle on foot since we were only venturing to the forest outside of Camelot.

The guards let us pass easily and as soon as we were out of their sight. I released my magic, using it to try and sense the presence of the druid chieftain. I found him easily, standing not too far away with another druid. The three of us approached them. Arthur could barely contain himself. He insisted that he wanted to make a good impression and learn as much as possible from the druids.

I rolled my eyes then but I had to admit I was practically bursting with pride. He had not only accepted magic but was enthusiastic to learn about it. Even Aria who was cautious and unsure, now seemed relaxed and curious. We arrived at a small clearing and immediately two figures emerged from the trees. A male and a female.

I was about to offer greetings when both dropped to their knees before me. I nearly took a step back but Aria grabbed my arm. I stayed still, watching them for a moment. Arthur was in shock. Probably couldn't believe that they were bowing to me while there was a prince right there. Pompous prat.

'Lord Emrys, thank you for blessing us with your presence.' They said fervently.

I shifted uneasily. 'Please there is no need to be so formal. I came for my kin.' I said truthfully.

They grinned at me and I could clearly see the awe and wonder in their faces. Surely I didn't mean that much to them? They stood up and I figured I should introduce Arthur and Aria as well. It would be rude not to.

'This is Arthur Pendragon. The Once and Future King.' I said, somewhat proudly. They bowed to him and then to everyone's surprise. Arthur bowed as well, smiling.

'It is nice to finally meet you. Merlin has always spoken highly of your people.' Arthur said. I felt the heat rise to my cheeks. Ignore it, I told myself.

'This is Lady Aria, Arthur's ward and my...' I went on. What was she to me? How to put it into words?

'This must be the creature I ran into in the night. She was very protective of you.' The man said, extending his hand to her. She put her hand in his grasp and he turned it, kissing her knuckle. The woman also did the same, strangely.

'My name is Falon. This is my wife, Cianna.' He introduced. 'Our camp is hidden not far from here, we put up the necessary wards to escape detection.'

We followed him as he led the way to his camp. True, not ten minutes later, we arrived. Arthur having to hold on to my shoulder to enter the camp since he was without magic. As soon as we entered the camp, Falon introduced us loudly to his camp and every man, woman and child sank to their knees. I bid them stand and as I did, I could feel their hope and faith radiating to me. What did I do to deserve it?

Arthur was led away by an elderly woman who seemed to be explaining the essence of magic to him. He was enraptured. I almost smirked. When he was gone far enough, I turned back to Aria. She was looking around dazed and smiling. I caught her hand and sat her down on the ground for a rest.

That was when all the women and children crowded us. Cianna made her way right in front of us and held each of our hands. There were tears in her eyes and the children and women were watching to see what she would say.

'Emrys, I sense your confusion. Today we are not only blessed with your presence but we are also honoured with the presence of your leannan. We were unaware you had a lady until she appeared beside you. It is wonderful.' Cianna said, keeping her eyes on Aria's blushing face.

'I'm sorry, I don't recognize the word 'leannan'.' I said.

'It means lover of your life and beyond. And how lovely she is!' Cianna exclaimed and with that, the women and children clamored over to us, questions never-ending.

'Where did you find her?'

'How did you two meet?'

'Was it love at first sight?'

But there as one particular question that came from a girl not more than five years of age. She tottered over and stumbled into Aria's lap who held her adoringly. She looked up into Aria's strange eyes and asked rather timidly. 'Do you ever kiss?'

Aria grinned widely at the child before turning to me with such speed I barely had time to react before she molded her lips to mine. My mind scattered and I kissed her back, head swimming with her scent.