Hi! I am so sorry about the late update! I've been having a tough time with some personal stuff and just to add to that, I had no clue what to write and had a writer's block which took me five days just to write the first part of the chapter! I also didn't know whether to include a certain part (which I think you'll realise what once you've read it). I just want to add that there are some sexist comments in this chapter, but I'm not actually sexist, the characters in it are! So that's not my own thoughts being written out, just some OC's. I don't own Merlin, but I do own my OCs.
Chapter 33
The Dragons and Something More
(3rd Person P.O.V)
Slender fingers tapped the wooden hand rest on the throne, as the doors to the throne room opened and Amfortas strode inside. Moraunt nodded at the man, who returned the gesture with his own. "Amfortas."
"Moraunt." Moraunt stood up and the two men shook hands. "It's been far too long."
"Yes, it has." Moraunt agreed, as Amfortas sat in a seat beside Moraunt's while the younger man also sat down.
"There is an air of sadness as we continue our quest without dear old Cary." Amfortas muttered and Moraunt ran a hand through his short hair.
"Yes, yes, I agree with you. Cary will be missed, however, we more important topics to discuss." Moraunt pushed the conversation on, clearly not interested in discussing their fallen comrade.
"I understand, Moraunt." Amfortas said.
"I believe that we should have no point in trying to rule by marriage." Moraunt leaned back into his chair. "I think it'd be best if we just try to attack Lexador."
"Not to act displeased or anything," Amfortas paused, "but must we attack Lexador?"
Moraunt tensed. "What do you mean, Amfortas?"
Amfortas shifted in his seat, noticing the sharp tone to Moraunt's voice. "Why not attack another kingdom? One which is not allied with such strong forces as Camelot and Utus."
"Because, Lexador is on good land, with great resources for weapons and armour and just to add to the appeal, it is ruled by a woman, making it even weaker." Moraunt replied sternly.
Amfortas swallowed thickly. "But Moraunt, Queen Amity has proven to be a very strong ruler, despite her gender."
"Every ruler has their cracks, women more so." Moraunt rolled his eyes at Amfortas' cautiousness. "Just watch Amfortas, you'll see dear little Amity and her kingdom fall. And as for seeing her kingdom fall, have you prepared the army?"
"Yes Moraunt, they are ready to leave for Lexador tomorrow night. We'll arrive the morning afterwards." Amfortas explained and Moraunt seemed pleased.
"Good, good, make sure we succeed this time, Amfortas, won't you?"
Amfortas nodded, although he was still very on edge, as Moraunt called for lunch to be served. Neither nobleman nor their guards knew of the hooded figure listening into their conversation as the individual peaked through a gap in the stone at the top of the wall. The hooded figure heard voice go through her head. "Hurry up, we don't have much time before the spell wears off."
The hooded figure stood and begin to descend down some stairs. "Coming." The person's voice was feminine as she responded telepathically.
The young woman sprinted down corridors before hiding around a corner and pausing as she caught her breath and the voice in her head hissed again. "Hurry!"
"Bedyrne ús! Astýre ús þanonweard!" There was a whirlwind surrounding the hooded figure, as her eyes flashed gold before she disappeared into thin air, feeling her magic pull her to her planned destination. The young girl shut her eyes as she travelled, before she felt her feet finally touch the ground.
She opened her eyes, showing the colour of hazel, as dark strands of curled hair fell in front of her eyes, which widened as arms wrapped around her. A woman with red hair and blue eyes smiled warmly as she clutched the hooded figure. "I'm so glad you're alright!"
The hooded figure laughed and gently pushed the woman away. "Enid! I told you I'd be alright."
Enid nodded, but still seemed a little concerned. "What did you learn, Ade?"
Ade pushed her hood off, showing her long dark hair and pale skin. "Moraunt and Amfortas plan on attacking Lexador with their army in two days time."
Enid paled. "We must warn Queen Amity then."
Ade nodded in agreement, before they grasped hands and began to chant.
Amity smiled up at Merlin, who was holding his hand out towards her. "Come on Amity, he won't bite."
"You promise?" Amity bit her lip.
Merlin nodded encouragingly. "I promise. I would never let harm come to you."
Amity blushed at that comment and she slowly reached out and grabbed Merlin's hands. Their hands seemed to fit together, as if made for each other. The two peaked up at each other and beamed, before Amity stepped forward and their hands clasped together.
"Are you already?" Merlin whispered into her ear, his breath causing Amity to shiver.
"Ready." She responded, before he kissed her cheek.
"Just wait a few moments while I call them." Merlin took in a deep breath. "O drakon, e male so ftengometta tesd'hup'anankes!"
Amity gasped and she held Merlin's hand, squeezing tightly as the sound of wings echoed around the clearing they were in.
Morgana's eyes opened and she grinned into her pillow, rolling over and clutching the pillow to her chest. "I see you took my advice, Merlin." She chuckled happily and went back to sleep after a few moments of silence.
(Amity P.O.V)
I sat at the table in my courtroom, signing off on approval for some villagers to build a new school. The doors to the courtroom opened and I looked up to see Merlin coming towards me. We smiled at each other and I put my quill down. "Merlin? What can I do for you?"
"Well, I had an idea…it's just an idea…but I was wondering." Merlin cleared his throat. "Would you like to come with me?"
"Go with you where?" I asked and Merlin flushed.
"That didn't make sense, did it? I meant, out somewhere. We could go anywhere." I grinned at the offer. "So? What do you think?"
"I'd love to." I replied and Merlin bounced on the spot, beaming at me.
"Brilliant!" He blushed. "I mean…ah, great…milady."
I chuckled and stood up, walking to him and taking his hands with mine. "It's just Amity."
"Well, just Amity, there's someone I'd like you to meet." Merlin told me and I gave him a bemused look.
"Who?" I asked.
Merlin shook his head. "You'll just have to wait to find out."
I mockingly glared at him. "Tell me now!"
"No, I refuse to." Merlin retorted.
I raised an eyebrow. "You're disobeying a Queen."
Merlin snorted. "Everyone knows that you do not want to be treated too differently based upon your status."
I pretended to give him a frustrated sigh. "No wonder Arthur gets so fed up by you, you and your secrets are very annoying."
"But you love them." Merlin joked, before I blushed and his eyes widened. "I mean…er…um…"
"Yes, I do." I said before properly thinking and Merlin and I just stared at each other.
"I'd best get the horses." Merlin said and I nodded.
"Yes." I said distractedly, leaning forward as Merlin leaned closer as well. "Merlin…shouldn't you be doing something?"
"Something?" Merlin leaned closer and my mind began to feel fogged up.
"Ah…horses…saddle…horses." I said and Merlin sighed before stepping back and I took in a deep breath, feeling a sense of sadness. I know I've longed to be kissed by Merlin for years, but the idea of my first kiss with the man I love in the courtroom doesn't sound as great as I would've hoped.
Merlin flushed and nodded. "I'll go to the horses…see you soon."
"Yes, soon." I mumbled, embarrassed as Merlin rushed out of the room, before I felt a small grin come onto my face. "Very soon."
Cherish galloped out of the gates of Lexador as Merlin rode beside us on his horse. We laughed loudly when Merlin cracked a bad joke which left me in stitches from laughter. Merlin had tears of laughter after I nearly fell off Cherish. "Oh my gosh! I can't believe the great Queen Amity nearly fell off her horse from laughter!"
"Hey, shush it magic boy." I kidded.
"Magic boy?" Merlin burst into more laughter. "I'm a man!"
"You're not acting like one currently." I teased and we grinned at each other as we went further out to where the forests began to grow. "Where are we heading?"
"You'll find out soon." Merlin repeated, as he had multiple times throughout our ride.
"Merlin!" I whined and Merlin rolled his eyes.
"Honestly, such a grown up girl you are." He muttered.
"Hypocrite." I retorted as we soon came to a clearing in the forest.
"We're here." Merlin informed me as he got off his horse and walked to my side, reaching up and placing his hands on my waist.
I smiled down and rested my hands on his shoulders as he helped lift me off Cherish's back and stabilized me before letting go. Merlin smiled down at me as we strolled further in the clearing and I looked around. "So, who are you wanting me to meet?"
Merlin paused. "Do you remember when I talked about Kilgarrah and Aithusa?"
The names are familiar. "Those names sound…familiar." Merlin bit his lip and looked cautious. "Oh no, not that look…what are you trying to hide, Merlin?"
"Do not freak out Amity, but, Kilgarrah and Aithusa are the last dragons alive." My eyes widened at his explanation.
"Dragons!" I hissed loudly and Merlin shushed me.
"Amity, don't worry, they won't hurt you." Merlin soothed and I shot him a dark look.
"And how are you so sure about that?" I spat out and Merlin quickly reached out and grabbed my hand, pulling me to him so our chests were pushed against each other's.
"I am sure because I would jump in front of you before anything hurt could befall you." Merlin swore and I gazed up at him, before he went red and quickly released me. "Sorry…didn't mean to be so…intense."
"No, it's fine." Let's not admit that I found that having our chests pushed against each other's felt very hot…Merlin doesn't need to know that.
"Cool, so, I'll summon them now." Merlin said as he stepped back and I felt my stomach tighten sickly.
"Are you sure this is a good idea? I mean…we could've just gone on a picnic or something like that." I suggested hopefully, picking up the hem of my dress.
The smile on Merlin's face fell and I felt guilty. "You really don't want to meet Kilgarrah and Aithusa?"
"No, no, it's not that." I rushed to say, but Merlin still didn't look confused. "I just don't want to be eaten by a pair of dragons."
Merlin laughed and I pouted. "Don't worry, they wouldn't eat you. You wouldn't taste nice to them…too soft, I'd reckon."
"Oh ha, ha." I said sarcastically, but a grin on my face as I smiled up at Merlin.
Merlin held his hand out towards me and I eyed it. "Come on Amity, he won't bite."
"You promise?" I bit my lip, still feeling very cautious despite how calm and relaxed Merlin was being.
Merlin nodded encouragingly. "I promise. I would never let harm come to you."
I blushed at what he said, as his comment clearly had a deeper and unsaid meaning, before I reached out and grabbed Merlin's hands. Our hands fitted perfectly together and held onto each other's tightly. I looked up at Merlin, who caught my eye as we smiled at each other. With our hands clasped, I stepped forward so I was standing beside him.
"Are you already?" Merlin whispered into her my, and his breath against my sensitive skin made me shiver as the tingle travelled down my spine.
"Ready." I confirmed and Merlin gently kissed my cheek again, which seemed to have become some sort of repeated action between the two of us.
"Just wait a few moments while I call them." Merlin took in a deep breath. "O drakon, e male so ftengometta tesd'hup'anankes!"
I gasped and squeezed Merlin's hand, hearing the power he power he held in his voice. We stayed still before hearing the sound of wings as my grip tightened and Merlin inched closer to me. "Just breathe." He reminded me and I tensed as the sounds of wings grew louder as a large shadow formed over us.
I winced and leaned into Merlin's side as strong winds blew my hair back and ruffled Merlin's hair. I reached down and had to keep a hand on my dress to stop it from blowing upwards. Two large shapes were heading towards us and I would've run back if it weren't for Merlin's comforting presence. I gasped at the sight of the two dragons, one much larger than the other. They landed in the clearing in front of us and Merlin and I were insignificant compared to their large volumes. One dragon, the smaller, was white, while the other and huge dragon was a yellow-brown with golden eyes.
"Kilgarrah, Aithusa." Merlin smiled at them.
"Merlin, your majesty." The larger dragon bowed his head towards us, his voice deep and grave and the white dragon titled its head at us.
"Amity, this is Kilgarrah." Merlin motioned to the larger dragon. "And Aithusa."
My eyes landed on the white dragon, before going back to Kilgarrah. "It's a pleasure."
"The pleasure is all mine, your majesty." Kilgarrah responded.
"Please, call me Amity." I said out of habit, blushing when Kilgarrah gave me a surprised look.
"You a very similar to how the prophecies have describe you, Amity." He informed me and I gaped at him.
"What prophecies?" Merlin asked the dragon.
"Ones that were written many years ago, which spoke of the golden Queen leading her people into an age of prosperity." I shared a bewildered look with Merlin. Golden Queen? I know my hair is blonde, but I have no clue what the rest means. "However, there is a catch."
"What is the catch, Kilgarrah?" Merlin sighed, before whispering to me with a mocking exasperated tone. "There's always a catch."
I giggled slightly before staring up at the huge creature.
"For the golden Queen to step forward and take her place as prophesied, she needs the innocent one to turn to darkness, only then well her full potential be shown." Kilgarrah explained.
"Innocent one? Who is that?" I queried and jumped back when Kilgarrah suddenly stretched his wings out widely.
"That is for you to discover, milady." Kilgarrah stated and I frowned up at him.
"How am I meant to discover it when people do not properly explain it to me? You speak in riddles and will give only half answer!" I complained.
"Your highness, I give you the whole answer, but you need your other half to complete it for you." Kilgarrah said and Merlin and I gawked at him.
"Please Kilgarrah, just tell us what you mean." Merlin begged, but the dragon shook his head.
"It is your destiny to discover your path, young warlock. If I were to tell you, Lexador and Camelot will never reach their full potential under all of their rulers and Albion will never be succeeded." Albion? What is that dragon going on about now?
"Please!" I gave one last desperate attempt.
Kilgarrah did not seem fazed. "I wish you luck, young warlock, your majesty, for you shall need it!" He told us before suddenly bursting up into the sky.
Aithusa stayed where he was for a few moments, still observing myself and Merlin. "Aithusa, can you tell us?" Merlin asked the white dragon.
"Aithusa!" Kilgarrah called and the white dragon's eyes averted between the two.
"Please." I repeated.
Kilgarrah's roar echoed around the clearing. "Aithusa!"
Aithusa made a motion with his upper body, as if shrugging, before he leapt into the air and flew off, following Kilgarrah and leaving myself and Merlin in the clearing.
"Sorry about that." Merlin grimaced and we began to walk back to the horses. "Kilgarrah never gives proper answers and Aithusa refuses to betray her guardian."
"Kilgarrah is Aithusa's guardian?" I asked and Merlin nodded.
"Yeah, took her in after I hatched her from her egg." Merlin educated and I smiled weakly.
"Wow…that's very…surreal." I muttered and Merlin stopped us from continuing our walk, turning our bodies to face each other and taking both of my hands in his.
"You're alright, aren't you? I didn't frighten you or anything, did I?" Merlin said and I squeezed his hands comfortingly.
"No, I'm fine…it was just a shock. I've never met a dragon before, let alone two." I admitted and Merlin chuckled.
"Well, you were very brave." He said.
I giggled. "No I wasn't, didn't you feel me squeezing all circulation out of your hand?"
Merlin grinned. "Of course I did, I thought I'd just be nice and pretend it didn't happen, though."
I rolled my eyes as he continued to simper as we walked to our horses. "Oh shush Merlin."
"That's Arthur's line."
"Nope, he's is 'shut up, Merlin'."
"That imitation was way too good it was almost creepy."
I smirked. "Good, because next time I'll chuck something at you if you don't shut up."
"Okay, shutting up now." Merlin and I laughed as he helped me onto Cherish.
"Hey Merlin?" I leaned down and Merlin looked up at me, his eyes looking even bluer in the sunlight, before we were soon at the same level after I had bent down.
"Yes Amity?" He whispered and we both moved closer.
With the sunlight streaming down on us, casting a warm glow on Merlin's pale skin and the surrounding trees to shine bright green, I decided it couldn't have been a better time. Just me and Merlin in this clearing, no roles, responsibilities or interrupting ghosts or guardians. No loving only for titles or different treatment based on powers possessed. Just the two of us. I noted that Merlin had a peculiar expression on his face, as if he was gazing at the Sun in his life.
"Thank you." I said and just like earlier, where his words had a deeper meaning, these two words also had a deeper meaning, but their meanings were soon not as important as our lips met.
The kiss was gentle, soft and unhurried. My hands went to his shoulders as his came around my waist. Merlin smoothly pulled me off my horse and I was soon standing in front of him, our chests against each other's again as we basked in each other's presence. We stayed in the embrace for a moments with our eyes shut and lips caressing each other's in a slow and tender motion. I felt my cheek become wet and I realized that one of us was crying, just as Merlin leisurely pulled his lips away from mine and we rested our foreheads against each other's. I then recognized the fact that it wasn't just one of us crying, but both of us as the feeling of love for each other filled our hearts.
"You have no clue how long I've waited for that." Merlin whispered, his hands travelling up my neck and resting on my cheekbones as his thumbs wiped tear tracks away.
I thought about how I had spent years longing to kiss Merlin, and I chuckled wetly, still feeling very emotional. "I think I have an idea."
We stayed holding each other as I removed Merlin's tear tracks with my fingers, before Merlin finally sighed. "We best get going."
"Yes." I whispered, but then frowned. "Is it bad to say I don't want to?"
"Is it selfish to say I want to keep you to myself?" Merlin replied and I smiled at him.
"I know exactly how you feel." I then stepped out of his arms. "But we must get going."
"I suppose we must." Despite the fact we have to face reality and accept we had to go back to the castle, I still felt the euphoria from kissing Merlin, and based off the fact he hadn't lost his lovesick grin all the way back home, I'd say the same for him too.
Merlin helped me off the horse once we returned back to the castle, and I smiled up at him before realizing that we were in public now, and displays of affection would just lead to unwanted rumours. "We need to talk later about public displays of affection," I paused, "and just what sort relationship we're in…in you want to be in one!"
Merlin chuckled at my hasty and rushed comment. "I do want to be in one with you and I understand why we cannot just tell people."
I sighed in relief. "Thank you."
We climbed up the front steps to the castle and soon entered. After entering, I remembered just how much work I have to do since I left it all for going out with Merlin. I turned to Merlin with a sad smile. "I have to go back to doing my work in the courtroom."
Merlin returned my depressed look with his own. "I understand. Perhaps we shouldn't both walk there, that might cause too many rumours."
"Well, they've already seen you help me off my horse." I kidded and Merlin looked around before pulling me into a small alcove a few metres away from us. "Merlin!"
"Shush, they'll know and I just want to speak to you without risk of being heard." Merlin stopped, before biting his lip. "Wait a moment. Forswige."
"What does that do?" I asked him.
"Makes it so that anybody not in this conversation cannot hear it." He informed me and I grinned.
"Wow, someone's had some practice at keeping secrets." I teased.
"I've had my reasons to." Merlin retorted, as the sound of footsteps echoed around the corridor, and despite the spell cast, we went silent until the footsteps were gone. "Now, about…us."
"Yes…I want to know just what you're wanting." I said awkwardly and Merlin bit his lip.
"Well, I want us…if that's what you want." I felt my heart race faster.
"I want us too." I whispered and we smiled at each other.
"Well, I think it'd be best if we kept it as secret as possible. At least, secret from the citizens." Merlin said and I nodded.
"It's alright to tell those close to us." I said, and I shivered when the thought of telling Arthur I'm in a relationship with his manservant seemed very frightening. "Only, one thing, if you wish to court me."
"What?" Merlin asked.
"You have to tell Arthur." I gave him a victorious smirk as his smile fell off his face.
"But…but…that's suicide!" Merlin argued.
"Yes, and Lexador certainly can't lose their Queen because her old guardian murdered her for courting his manservant." I pointed out.
"But he'll treat you nicer than me!" Merlin complained.
"I'm not so sure about that, I think I'd still get a rough talking to since it's you I'm courting. You're like his brother and best friend. No man wants the girl he considers to be his daughter to date his best friend." I said calmly and Merlin sighed.
"That sentence makes us sound so wrong." He muttered.
I smiled and reached forward and grabbed his hands in mine. "Yet we feel so right."
(3rd Person P.O.V)
Morgana gasped and whirled around when her door bursts open, her hand going over her heart as she panted. "Merlin!" Morgana snapped as Merlin rushed inside. "What were you thinking? Scaring me half to death!"
"Morgana, I need your opinion." Merlin stated and Morgana straightened up, crossing her arms over her chest.
"About?" Morgana raised an eyebrow at the servant.
"Courting Amity." Merlin gave her an embarrassed smile. "We've gotten closer, Morgana, and I really, really, really like her…"
"Oh Merlin! This is so exciting!" Morgana grinned at the warlock, who smiled embarrassed, yet pleased.
"Well, she agreed!" Merlin said elatedly. "She agreed to court me!"
Morgana beamed and rushed forward, pulling Merlin into a tight hug. "That's no surprise!"
"We just said that we cannot tell her people, it's has to be a secret, but we could tell those close to us." Merlin told Morgana, before he paled slightly. "She wants me to tell Arthur."
Morgana frowned and released Merlin. "Arthur isn't going to like this."
"Like what?" Neither had realized that Gwen had entered and jumped at her voice, seeing her standing by the door. She gave them a sheepish smile. "Sorry, I did knock but nobody answered. So, what isn't Arthur going to like?"
Merlin and Morgana shared a happy look before Merlin explained. "Amity and I have decided to court."
Gwen's jaw dropped, before she shook her head slightly and grinned, before leaping at Merlin, hugging him tightly. "I am so happy for you two! When did this happen? Why didn't Amity tell me? Now I understand why you don't want Arthur to know-"
"Gwen, Gwen, Gwen." Merlin repeated her name as he tried to calm her down. "Wow, slow down, Gwen."
"Oh, sorry." She blushed. "I get carried away sometimes."
Morgana snorted. "I think everyone knows that fact."
"Oh shush Morgana." Gwen joshed and turned back to Merlin. "So, are you going to answer?"
Merlin pretended to be exasperated, but both women could see the very happy glint in his eyes. "It happened today and she had to go continue her work, since I stopped her before she finished, that's why she hasn't told you yet, I went straight to Morgana and I was going to leave telling you to her. And yes, I'd like to live so telling Arthur doesn't sound desirable."
Gwen nodded. "I understand what you mean, but just don't put off telling him for too long, or he'll be even more upset." Gwen the squealed and bounced on the spot. "I am so happy for you two!"
"Thanks Gwen." Merlin said as she hugged him again.
There was then a knock on the door and the servant and Queen let go of each other as Morgana called for the person to enter. Soldier poked his head inside, a serious look on his face. "Queen Guinevere, Lady Morgana, Merlin, Amity has called for you. There is a meeting in the courtroom."
They shared unreadable looks before hurrying out of the room, following Amity's second in command.
(Amity P.O.V)
I glanced at Ade, who had grown up so much since I saved her from the Camelot dungeons. Her hair was longer and hazel eyes had a happy gleam to them. Her skin was a healthier pale and instead of wearing dirty and torn clothes I remember her in, she was in a green dress that was cleaner, but still of a servant's status. Beside her was Enid, Esme's aunt, who had taken her in, however, what had my attention was that on Ade's arm was an odd symbol that was surprisingly familiar. The doors to the courtroom opened and Gwen, Morgana and Merlin, as Gwen went to Arthur's side, Morgana and Merlin went off to one side of the room. I smiled at them, but my eyes strayed onto Merlin for longer, before I caught that I was staring at the servant. I then realized everyone was there, as I turned back to the two women in front of me.
"Ade, Enid, you called for a meeting with the royal court and have received it. What is it you desire to discuss?" I started seriously.
"We have overheard plans that will harm Lexador, milady." Ade explained and I raised an eyebrow as she continued. "Moraunt is having Amfortas send his army on a surprise attack."
It felt as if my heart stopped and everyone froze. "When?"
"In two days time. They are leaving tomorrow night and will arrive in the morning." Ade informed me.
"And how did you discover this information?" I questioned.
Ade took in a deep breath. "I was spying on them."
"How did you manage to spy on them? Their security is very tight, Ade." I crossed my arms over my chest.
Ade watched me with a stubborn glint in her eye. "Magic has its perks, milady."
Everyone paused at that comment and my eyes went back down to the symbol on her arm. No wonder it seems familiar if it's related to magic. "That is the Druid's symbol, milady." Mordred said from the side, where he was standing beside Esme.
I didn't particular like Mordred, but nor did I hate him. We just never properly spoke, but after my maid caught his eye, he requested being permitted to stay as a guest. Apparently, he is very kind, but very shy, according to Esme. The two of them have become very close and from what I've heard, their personalities complement each other's well. Both of them have no desire for war, or even just little things like going to overly crowded and loud places. Esme told me they even share a favourite drink, being some type of wine that is cheaper and easier for the lower class to afford. She doesn't stop talking about Mordred, especially when helping me prepare for bed, and suddenly, I realized that was probably how Esme felt when I never shut up about Merlin back when I was fourteen…and fifteen…and sixteen…okay, and also seventeen, soon eighteen. Yeah, now I think about it, she does deserve the right to never shut up about Mordred after how I never shut up about Merlin.
I looked back at Ade. "Is this true, Ade?"
Ade slowly nodded. "Magic is no longer illegal and the Druids are peaceful people, so I see no reason to hide my magic now."
I suppose that's true. "Fine, so then, how do they plan on attacking?"
"Amfortas will lead his men through the front gate of Lexador, as they believed you'd have no idea of the battle." Ade informed me.
"And just why where you there? Other than the whole 'spying' thing?" I queried and Enid and Ade looked at each other.
"We'd overheard rumours of the attack from Amfortas and Moraunt's men, we decided to check it out for ourselves." Enid explained to me.
"So, you took on the mission by yourselves?" That doesn't sound safe or logical.
"Once again, magic has its perks." Ade told me and I ran a hand through my hair. "Milady, I know this sounds so strange, but I would never betray you. You have my loyalty, I swear. You saved me all those years ago from death, for that, I will never forgot your compassion. I will never turn against you, nor would I lie to you about such a thing."
I felt small smile come onto my lips, before I masked it with an emotionless expression. "Fine, I'll trust you and take your words to heart." I turned to Commander Johnson. "Please, prepare our men."
"Yes milady." Commander Johnson bowed and left the room.
"Soldier, you're in charge of the knights for now. Help them with getting the people to safety. They can be guarded in the security of the palace walls." I said and Soldier started rounding up my knights.
"Leon, take our knights with Soldier's." Arthur commanded and I turned to him.
"You're joining us in the fight?" I felt slightly shocked, before I shook my head. "No Arthur, it's not safe. You still have time to take Gwen, Morgana, Amy and your men back to Camelot."
"I'm not abandoning you, so don't even think it." Arthur strode towards me, resting his hands on my shoulders. "I promised that I would protect you. I'm not going back on that promise."
"But you can't get hurt either! Camelot needs their rulers and Amy needs her father." I stated and Arthur smiled gently at me.
"And you need your father too." He said quietly. "And I may not be biologically your father, but I'm the closest to him currently."
"But I can't bear to loose my Father too, whether biological or not." I whispered.
"You won't lose me, I promise." Arthur leaned forward and kissed my forehead in a very comforting way, before pulling back to look me in the eyes.
I felt my eyes well up with tears. "You're really going to stay and do this with me?"
Arthur nodded. "As if I would ever leave."
"You don't have to stay for the battle." I said to Esme as she braided my hair.
"I want to." She told me.
"Esme, battles are bloody and very dangerous, you're just a girl-"
"And you're just a girl too." Esme interrupted, finishing with tying my hair. "Amity, I thought we had already stated this, but we're sisters, and sisters don't abandon each other when they're needed most."
We stared at each other as I stood up, my chainmail rattling slightly. "You are very loyal and brave Esme, far braver than many knights I've met."
"It comes from having such a brave sister." Esme said and she turned away, rushing to get my boots.
"I think it's not just knowing me. I think you're naturally brave, despite your small size and weaker immune system." I said and she grinned.
"Well, they do say that brave things came in small packages." I raised an eyebrow at her.
"I thought it was good things?" I said and she chuckled.
"I changed it slightly to suit the occasion." Esme said and we both grinned at each other. "Mark would've loved this…even though he wouldn't have understood what was really happening."
"He loved anything which involved protecting people and helping them." I said as I pulled my boots on.
Esme fetched my sword belt and cloak as I wrapped the belt around my waist and she pulled the cloak around my shoulders and did the clasp up at the front. Esme was dressed in her own clothes for the fight, an old pair of breeches and one of my shirts with a fur vest I had leant to her. Her hair was tied into a plait and she too had a belt on around her waist.
"There." She stepped back from me once done and I raised an eyebrow at her.
"You're forgetting one thing." I teased and she eyed my outfit, muttering to herself before her eyes widened.
"Sorry! Sorry!" She went and grabbed my sword, which had belonged to Father, before handing it to me as I sheathed it into my belt.
"Thank you Esme." I said and we smiled at each other before there was a knock on the door. "Come in." Soldier and Mordred entered, both bowing to me. "Mordred? You're fighting?"
"Yes milady." He said and I slowly nodded, not entirely comfortable with the idea of an untrained man fighting. Esme didn't look entirely comfortable about it either, but obviously for different reasons. "What is it?"
"The knights have started to get people into safety. Where do you desire the guards to be?" Soldier asked and I quickly thought.
"I want some waiting the in courtyard, more at the front gates of Lexador and some in the actual castle incase Amfortas infiltrates us." I ordered and Soldier nodded. I then turned to Esme. "I want you to join Gaius in the sick bay for wounded or injured citizens and soldiers."
"But-"
"No arguments Esme." I said firmly. "This is a battle and you are no soldier, so you will join Gaius."
"But what about you?" She questioned, borderline hysterical.
"I am the Queen and trained in combat." I stated. "Plus, it's my duty to fight."
"It's my duty to stay by your side." Esme snapped and my eyes narrowed.
"Esme, you will stay with Gaius, or else, you won't be involved at all." I threatened.
"And where would you keep me to stop me from fighting?" Esme retorted.
"The dungeons." I responded.
"I would get out. Mordred would help me!" Esme said desperately and I smirked.
"Mordred won't help you if he values certain anatomical parts of his body." I said simply and she glowered at me. I know I wouldn't do that to Mordred, but Esme wouldn't dare make him be involved if it meant he might be hurt. Both Mordred and Soldier paled at my threat and I then continued. "Now, go and start helping Gaius." Esme threw one last glare at me before storming out of my chambers. I sighed and looked at Soldier. "Can you please go and follow her to ensure she does actually go to Gaius?"
Soldier nodded and left the room, leaving Mordred and myself. "Do you desire me to leave you, your majesty?" Mordred asked politely.
"I wish to ask something of you first, Mordred." I said, and he seemed to be looking as if he felt awkward. "If something is to happen to me in this battle, I need to know that Esme will be safe and cared for."
"I'm sure nothing will happen to you, milady." Mordred replied.
"But if it is, can I rely on you to guard her and care for her?" I asked and Mordred nodded.
"Of course, you needn't ask, milady." He said. "But why do you have such a dismal tone? Surely you must understand that you have more men than Amfortas, even without the aid of Camelot? Yours are also trained and very capable fighters. There is little for you to be worried for."
"I understand that, but before this battle begins, I must speak to someone first." I said, as a thought came to mind.
"Milady, do you mind if I ask you something? What are you planning?" Mordred seemed cautious and I had a small smile.
"Something that will hopefully safe all," my tone saddened. "Even if it means particular people are lost in the way."
Mordred watched me as I led us to my door and opened it. "Pardon me if this offends you, but you aren't plan on doing something completely idiotic and very self-sacrificing, are you?"
"You'll find out. And just one other thing." I lowered my voice. "If you hurt her in any way, that little threat I just said will become true."
Mordred went even paler and nodded. "I understand, I could never hurt her."
I smiled at him, pleased, before we left my chambers. "Good, good. Now, go and join those you're fighting with."
"Arthur's knights, I'm by their side." Mordred paused. "Arthur has offered me a position of a knight of Camelot."
"Do you wish to take it?" I asked, a little surprised, but I suppose Arthur has his reasons.
"I'm not sure." Mordred said slowly. "But I'll have to see if I just survive."
"Yes, well, good luck, Mordred." I said and he bowed to me.
"Good luck to you as well, milady." He said, before striding down the corridor as I turned and saw someone I had desired to speak to about a plan.
"Ade." I called out and the young woman turned to me. "Are you prepared to return my favour of saving you?"
And that's it for that chapter! Aww, Merlin and Amity had their first kiss! That was one thing I debated whether I should include, but in the end, I decided that it's been nearly 5 months of being very close best friends and they've flirted for a while now and Amity's was definitely very ready to kiss him. Of course, she had to take control and just kiss the man! :P Haha, sorry, once again, about how late it took to upload, I just have a few things going on currently. Ok, onto reviews!
SweetShySecrets – Thanks for reviewing! I hope I didn't put too much into the last chapter! I just had a lot to write! Plus, this chapter was shorter, so that was another reason why the last was a lot longer than usual! Aww, thanks for being so sweet!
Guest (1) – Aww, thanks for being so kind! Merlin is getting more open about using his magic, he's still a bit cautious and Arthur is also cautious about Merlin's magic. I'm sorry you forgot he revealed himself! I just wanted to stick to how I had planned Merlin would act once his magic was revealed! There will be more focusing on the relationship between Merlin and Mordred! I think it helps Mordred's case that magic is no longer illegal and he isn't in love with an evil girl like Kara. Esme is sweet, so that will probably influence him. I hope I can change your mind about Mordred! I always liked him, but that might've just been because of the actor who played him ;) Haha, thanks for reviewing! :)
bilboswaggins2 – *RETURNS ATTACK HUG WITH OWN* Aww, thanks for being so sweet! Yes, I did say that Colin would love you! Haha, apology accepted! Haha, it's nice to know that you don't think Bradley would run away from me! Mmmm, being in a bear hug with him does sound very nice! Watching my nephew is very adorable (well, personally) and I'll make sure Arthur doesn't hear about William's (my nephew) crush on Gwen! A jealous Arthur wouldn't be pleasant unless you are Gwen! Maybe I'll cosplay with him, I'll just have to see once he grows up a little more. And I did see the pictures of Bradley filming izombie! I also saw a video of him filming it, where he kissed the other actress in it. Have you seen that video? It's noting amazing since you can't hear the lines, but still, better than nothing I was also very shocked by the dark hair and even slightly hated it to start with, but I'm warming up to it. I still prefer him blonde though…Aww, I'm glad you loved it so much! Was there enough Merity in this chapter for your tastes? ;) You are just way too kind! Wayyyyyyyy too kindddddddd! Thanks for reviewing *accepts that you're still hugging me and hugs back*
Destiny Xavier16 – I'm glad you loved the scene where Merlin helped Amity get more comfortable on her bed! I also liked it! Thanks for reviewing again!
ArmyWife22079 – You think Morgana's crush is Gwaine? Hmmm, I'll neither confirm nor deny, but you will find out eventually! I do like your reasoning for why it could be Gwaine though! Arthur will realise his bestfriend and ward's feelings for each other very soon! Like, in the next chapter soon (maybe the chapter after it). But, I think it'll be a bit like a slap in the face for him. I hope you also have a blessed sahmahn (I hope I spelt that right) and thanks for reviewing!
Amy – Aww, you're so nice! I'm glad you find it perfect and you liked my decision to choose Will for Merlin to see, as well as add Mordred to the story! We'll just have to see how long he'll be in the story for, but seeing as he and Esme are attracted to each other, it might be a while ;) Since Amity is involved, I think there is a big chance that Merlin and Mordred will be friends, considering the girls they like are best friends. I'm glad you like Mordred's character and the concept of him and Esme! She does need to be happy after losing so much! Merlin and Amity are very much closer after this chapter! I've been planning it for a while and I wanted their first kiss to be very much a spare of the moment thing that Amity started. Plus, I wanted to surprise people! I can add the whole Morgana telling Merlin who she likes if you want me to I'll also add the whole girls time together as Arthur takes care of Amy if you want! I really like your ideas and I'll aim to do them sometime soon, I'll try and remember! I look forward to your hi on Twitter! Aww, I hope you felt like crying good tears, not bad ones! Trust me, give me a few chapters and you're going to hate me ;) I think the 'Innocent One' Kilgarrah prophecised turning to darkness is going to happen very soon! Sorry for how long it took to update! Thanks for reviewing again!
Lbunny – I'm glad you seem so happy! Thanks for reviewing again!
LadyMorganaPendragon – Thanks for reviewing last chapter! Sorry about how long it took for me to update and did you get enough Merity in this chapter? They're even together now! Let's just see how long they can keep it a secret! (As a hint, it's not going to be long at all…really, it isn't…maybe a couple of hours…or a day!) I'll see when I'll put who Morgana is in love with, but if you go over some previous chapters, there are a few hints, like, corrections of a name a certain knight said when he called her by nickname. I've had a few PMs about her crush and some people have gotten it right, but I promise, it'll be very soon that you'll find out! I'm not focusing on Esme/Mordred as much right now, but I will very soon! Thanks for reviewing again!
Guest (2) – Postpartum depression is the medieval way to say postnatal depression, so pretty much, depression after having a baby. The meaning of "I'm glad your happier" was that Will knew that Merlin was not feeling as welcome or happy when he was young, do you remember the episode (I think it's the first) where Merlin asked Gaius "I'm not a monster, am I?". It's just saying that now Merlin has found Amity, he has found happiness he was lacking before. So it sort of had a dark meaning behind it, since Will is just comparing Merlin's happiness before Amity was around and now that Amity is around. Did that explain it well enough? Thanks for reviewing!
Guest (3) – I think Arthur will learn to appreciate Merlin more, but he's still got that horrible thing called pride! It will happen though! I think he does hold a level of respect for Merlin, he just doesn't show it in public and Amity only sees what the two men allow her to see, just like how they act differently in public. I understand why you feel annoyed though! Thank you for reviewing!
Guest (4) – I'm sorry how long it took to update! I had writer's block and then some tough things going on this week! I'll try and update faster in the future! Thanks for reviewing!