The Coming of Arthur Pendragon part 2
There were moments in life where it wasn't your own pain that crippled you every second of the day. It was Arthur's that was causing every step to become harder and more difficult. Merlin was there to support me the whole time we have been away from Camelot. It had been weeks since we forced to abandon the kingdom in Morgana's charge so we could save Arthur's life and live to fight another day. My Father was being held captive and who knew what kind of torture Morgana was putting him through, no matter much I secret wished it upon him too.
But that isn't most immediate worry, my main worry right now is Merlin, he'd gone out to do some investigating as he sometimes did, but I could sense a panic in Merlin like he was being chased and there was little I could do without causing issues with all the men around me and I realised just how many Men I truly knew.
I waited at the entrance to the cave beside Elyan when he walked in, it was like he knew I'd be there and he smirked, slipping the sword into the sheave on his waist
"Come on then" I laughed and jumped onto him, my legs around his waist and he was carrying me like I was just another sack of rice.
"Do you ever get bored of hugging me every time I come in?" I shrugged
"That depends, do you always have to put yourself in danger and get chased by the guards in Morgana's rule" Gwaine looked confused
"How could you possibly know that" I shrugged
"It's the most local danger and besides I can always sense when he's in danger… possibly even before he does" I turned and looked at Arthur who sat in the corner, he hadn't moved for days and it getting to me, as much as I tried to not let it. My mood turned sour and Merlin set me on my feet knowing the moment was over, I then reached behind me and handed him the water. He drunk it eagerly
"Careful dear not all at once" Merlin laughed slightly as he closed the pouch up again. Everyone was watching our communication and even before it seemed logical Merlin grabbed my arms and was pulling me to the floor.
"Why now?" I shrugged
"It's—" I started shaking uncontrollably and the vision was one of deep trouble. Morgana killing civilians, a war of such bloodshed I almost wanted to die from just seeing it as a possible future for us all and then I saw hope… Gwen safe, Lancelot coming out way, Mary and her son hiding from Morgana with Gwen's help. A new face one I knew I could trust, Morgana and Father having a few convosations and father crying…
My heart could not take it and I started crying
"Merlin, please don't leave me. Don't ever leave me" Merlin voice was one of panicked reassurance
"You have nothing to fear my love, my heart is but yours to control. You wish me to stay that is what I shall eternally do…how much pain this time?" I shrugged with my closed eyes.
"11" Merlin gasped
"But that means—" I nodded and Merlin clung to me closer rocking me back and forth with all the gentle strength he could summon. My eye still stung from the magic… I could feel people watching me
"I know you're all watching me" Merlin laughed and apologised for me
"Sorry her hearing becomes super sensitive after a trauma like that" Gwaine who gently placed his hand on my shoulder so not to scare me, to which I grabbed and squeezed in reassurance and he spoke
"You never mention such an illness before… why does it happen?" Merlin sighed
"We don't know if we're honest both Gaius and I have tried everything we can to either aid her pain during episodes like today or preventing them all together… nothing seems to work. The only thing we can do is be a watchful eye and never let her be alone for too long a time period" Elyan spoke up then I knew he must have been standing just behind Gwaine.
"Why do you deal with something like that Adira?" I laughed
"Because despite Arthur's beliefs life is not about sulking and bossing people about it's about love" I patted Merlin's chest "Friendship" To which I squeezed Gwaine's hand "Loyalty and trust…and just because I've got some stupid rare thing where I 'fit' for a few seconds every few months I will not stop living my life" Merlin's hand stroked my cheek then
"Dear I think it is safe to open your eyes now" I slowly opened them and caught sight of some of my loved ones crowded around me
"I do not know how to live without any of you. My heart goes out to you all" The moment was over then, the knights went to their private 'sulking' about Arthur's mood, about their situations and they failed to realise everyone in this cave knew of their doubts, even Arthur who was so out it I'm not even sure he knew what day it is. Hours went by and Merlin had pulled me to the side and made me explain my vision and Merlin seemed grateful that Lancelot was at least on his way, but the rest of the topic's brought him little relief.
"I'm sorry I could not be of more use" Merlin smiled
"You have done all I have ever expected of you" I glanced at Arthur
"Someone needs to talk some sense into him" Merlin grabbed a plate of food and walked over to Arthur and tried to make usual banter but Arthur just pushed him away.
"I understand, your father lied to you about Morgana. I don't know why, he had his reasons but now is not the time for that. He's still your father he needs you" I stepped beside Merlin
"Camelot needs you… I need you" My voice breaking at the last word. Arthur shook his head
"I.." Arthur met my eye "We have known her all our life, how could she do this to us" I sighed
"I believe her heart was changed that year she was supposedly kidnapped. I believe Morgause did more than just lock her up while healing her wounds. But despite all of that you, we have a duty to father, to the kingdom, to the people. We can't just let them down all because of our family drama" Arthur got angry then
"We cannot defeat an immortal army… and why did you not come to me with those fears?" I scoffed
"We won't know until we try. Oh what I just walk into your chambers and say 'Oh hi Arthur you know that kind of adopted sister we've known all our lives? Well yeah she's actually our biological sister and has been turned evil by magic, has some of her own and is going to kidnap father and take the throne of Camelot… you would have called me crazy as the day I fell in love with Merlin" Arthur let out an angry sigh
"But you should have tried" I scoffed
"Arthur I had no proof that she was using magic, I had no proof she planned to do what she did. You would have taken me to father, got me to explain the story and then Father would accuse me of being the one of trying to turn Morgana against him especially considering she was still freshly home from the year long search… give me credit Arthur" Arthur turned to Merlin
"You knew of this? Is why you were acting so strangely when we went to save Gwen?" Merlin nodded
"I knew she was working with Morgause through what Adira and I suspected and I knew Morgause was in high favour with Cenrid. But only so much could be kept from her… but we got out with our lives" I scoffed
"Barely and besides how do you think I knew there was something wrong? Morgana had kept Gwen's disappearance a secret. The Morgana I knew would be sending out mile long search parties" Arthur nodded
"I remember when she went missing about 10 years ago, she was crying for a week when she realised that Gwen had gone to stay with her mother" I laughed at the fond memory
"I must have spent that whole week with a wet shoulder" I let out a sigh
"A simpler time" Arthur seemed to sink back into his depression and I didn't know what to do or say so I just slumped myself beside him. I've seen Arthur cry, I've seen him heartbroken, I've seen him angry… but I've never seen him so defeated.
By that evening like so many before I paced a small wall of this cave over and over, agitated. Merlin had gotten used to it and was blocking it out as he did his usual jobs throughout the day. Merlin had Finally had enough and took my hand and pulled me back to the very hidden back of the cave. Just when I thought the sexual tension was taking over he pulled out the water from the lake, the hourglass container in which the Fisher king had said would show us the way when all is lost.
"Do you know how to activate it?" Merlin shrugged
"I'm sure it's simple… otherwise he would have given us instructions on how to use it" I nodded in agreement.
We both tried to use our magic to get the water to work, but nothing was happening and I was just about to give up when Gwaine called into Merlin, which made him jump and dropped the hour glass to the floor and it smashed into a thousand pieces.
As Merlin started expressing his panic I noticed the water had an odd glint to it… like magic was running through it, the water seemed to pool together and when it did I saw a face that made me jump. I closed my eyes as my heart started to beat fast.
"I have missed you" I heard a haunting voice speak.
"Freya?" Merlin looked shocked
"Hurry we do not have much time" Merlin nodded
"It's really you?" Freya nodded
"I swore to you one day I would pay you both for what did you for me. This is that day" Merlin looked confused
"I don't understand" Freya's voice although haunting me
"There is but one blade that can kill something that is already dead" Of course how could we not think of that?
"Merlin, the sword forged in a dragon's breath" Freya nodded
"That weapon lies at the bottom of the lake of Avalon" All the way to the mountains? really? That's just Great… now if only someone could see the mental Eye roll I was doing.
"But Morgana's army is not dead, they are very much alive" Freya shook her head
"Those who toy with the cup pay a terrible price, the moment they entered their pack with Morgause they became the living dead… you must come to the lake"
"And you will give me the sword?" Freya's next sentence shook me
"In your hands the sword has the power to save Albion" Merlin smiled though I felt the stress of yet another world changing event resting on his shoulders.
"Thank you" Freya smiled and although her image was that of her through water still had this radiant beauty.
"No, thank you. It's given me the chance to see you again" Merlin turned to grin at me and when he looked back she was gone.
"I'm sorry my love" Merlin smiled sadly
"I would try convincing you that the whole thing didn't affect me. But I know when I'm wasting my time" I rested my head on his shoulder
"It's okay to be affected by it. I liked her too despite all the jealousy I felt" Merlin sighed
"My heart cannot even express how much I hate myself for what I did to you" I smiled
"And as much as I want you to realise how much you love me, I don't want you beating yourself up about an old mistake when we have so many new ones to make" Merlin sighed
"Don't remind me. Are you going to come with me when I go and get the sword?" I shrugged
"Depends on how you plan to get there" Merlin laughed, already knowing my train of thought.
"You're expecting me to call him like some carriage serves?" I shrugged
"Come on what else can he be used for… apart from cryptic riddles and words of warning we're probably just going to ignore" Merlin kissed my forehead and jumped to his feet
"I guess I'd better call him. Stay here.. That way I'll be able to tell if I'm being missed by anyone other than you" I smiled
"Nicely worded, now go.. any word back from Lance?" Merlin sighed
"He'll come. He always promised to and you know him and his promises" I smiled and nodded and watched him leave.
That night I did not sleep worrying about Merlin's safety, when he did not return the following morning I was getting more and more worried, even though emotionally he was fine, in fact he seemed to be enjoying himself. The following evening he returned with the sword, he looked a little tired but nothing if not happy. I did the usual hug and flirt thing every time he went away and most of the people within in cave either looked bored with it or satisfied that they could one day find a love like ours, not that I think our love is anything special even if he makes me feel special.
By that evening I was laying down with my head against Merlin's lap as he stroked my hair
"Having a little sleep Adira?" I scoffed, secretly glad to see Arthur bickering again.
"Like you haven't been sleeping either" Arthur laughed
"True, but the time for sleeping is over" Merlin smiled
"You seem better" I sat up and got to my feet and held out my hand subconsciously for Merlin, took it and stood beside me.
"You're hopeless at a lot of things, most in fact. But very occasionally quite by accident you say something useful" I had to ask
"Really?" Merlin's hit me gently in the arm as a grin formed on his face.
"Yesterday you said something… And if I didn't know you I could be completely fooled into thinking you're…"
"What?" We both asked.
"Wise" I smiled and before I had time to send back a snide remark, a call came from the other part of the cave. We ran to check what it was. We made our way to the entrance, Merlin and I keeping back as Arthur and Gwaine got ready to attack. When Arthur grabbed the person he was attacking he knew almost instantly it was Gwen. They shared a loving hug… I caught sight of Leon and pounced on him
"I'm so glad you're okay" Leon laughed
"As I you Adira, As I you" Elyan came running back towards the cave
"We've been found they are almost upon us" Arthur turned to Merlin
"Go get Gaius" Merlin nodded and rushed off towards the part of the cave Gaius dwelled in.
HERE!
Knowing the sword was back in the cave too I rushed after him, he had hidden it upon his return until he knew it could be used wisely. So as Merlin convinced Gaius to leave the cave I grabbed the sword. Merlin practically pushed Gaius out of the cave to follow the others, Merlin grabbed my hand and we ran. When we tried to run away from the cave, but before we even moves two steps from the entrance one of the living dead attacked Merlin and I let my normal skills take effect with the sword in my hand and within seconds he was a pile of ashes.
We then ran and caught up with the others, wasting little time of 'what took you so long?' questions, the knights knew the not ask and Arthur would always get vague answers if he did. As we continued to walk in a cautious advance we entered a narrow path and we saw Morgana's army, blocking out way.
But before Arthur even had time to come up with a crazy plan, rocks starting falling from the top of the cliff and I knew Merlin had not made them do so, nor had I and I knew rocks well enough to know they would not fall like that on their own. So what the hell was going on? When we looked up to where the rocks had fallen front I caught sight of a man I missed dearly.
"Lancelot?" Gwen whispered. Lancelot still loved her, that much as clear. Even if it'd only been a second glance.
"Come we need to hurry" When we did finally meet him and his friend along the path I was relieved. Arthur started talking to him once he knew we were safe to talk even for just a moment.
"I take it that rock fall wasn't an accident?" Lancelot patted his friend on the back
"This is Percival it is his strength that brought them down" The tall man nodded, a kind grace about his large frame.
"Your highness" I laughed, but Arthur ignored me trying to be the respective leader to a land that wasn't even his yet, let alone the fact it was currently stolen.
"Arthur please" I could sense Percival mere strength was causing issues for Arthur's hand shake and despite everything going on I found that rather amusing.
"Arthur it is" I caught Lancelot's eye and he bowed his head
"My lady" I tried to hold in my laughter.
"Lance just come here and give me a hug before I hurt you" He burst out laughing and picked me up and spun me in a hug.
"You my lady as beautiful as the day I met you" I blushed and scoffed in that polite way ladies do.
"Come now…" I messed up his hair
"I love the hair though, what made you to decide to cut it?" He shrugged
"Kinda hard to fight with hair covering your eyes and I felt the need for a change" I understood that, as Lance put me down I called over to Merlin
"Sweetheart?" Merlin's head turned around from where he was talking with Gwaine.
"Yes Dear?" I smiled at the nickname and the very domestic response from Merlin, even around the knights.
"Come on over here" He nodded, finished his convosation with Gwaine and came over
"What are you doing here Lancelot?" Arthur asked assuming I wanted a word with Merlin.
"I call him for Arthur" Arthur looked at Merlin confused but didn't say anything, only spared Lancelot a glance before deciding it was time to get back to business.
"Of course" Arthur turned to the new men in our group
"Well we owe you our lives, thank you" We set off again after that, Arthur leading the way. Elyan and Gwaine were supporting Gaius and helping him when the path became hard. Gwen walked beside Merlin talking aimlessly about all she'd seen Morgana do, I could not bare to listen after an hour so I fell back and even the mere slowing down my pace made Merlin notice and I spared him a glance and he gave me one back that spoke of understanding and love, I sent it back to him and Lancelot put his arm on my back helping me
"My heart does wish to love such a women as you Adira and to be loved so strongly in return" I sighed
"It ain't so perfect? Have any idea how annoying it is to know just how someone feels? So you can't keep yourself from poking into their business?" Lancelot smiled softly at me
"Better than spending all your time alone" I sigh, knowing what he was referring too.
"Seriously can you not move on?" Lancelot laugh was unhumoured
"Figured you'd know what I Meant" I scoffed
"A Blind man could see what you mean Lance" Percival spoke up then
"So this is the girl you've told me about?" I blushed as we walked through the door of the ancient king's castle and found one of the chamber rooms that despite all the dust held an amazing glorious magic about it.
"Yeah this is Adira Pendragon Percival. The very women who will save your life yet can cut it down as easily as you" Percival looked impressed
"You wield a sword?" I winked at him
"I dabble" Merlin who had fallen back as Gwen moved to catch up with Arthur.
"She's the best swords-women I've ever met" I smiled, remembering my rants about how it's always 'men' at the end of a sentence, 'Milk-man, Post-man, Swords-man' so Merlin always spoke about me with a 'women' at the end of those kind of words and it always amazed me how much he listens and remember even years later.
"You remembered" Merlin kissed my forehead
"I think you would kill me if I didn't" Our convocation came to an end quickly as Gaius asked
"You sure we will be safe in here?" Arthur and I both spoke
"This castle belonged to the ancient kings" Arthur's eyes twinkled with amusement for a moment "It shall do for a while" Elyan mumbled
"Anything better than that cave" I called out to everyone
"Come lets go searching" Merlin rolled his eyes at my child like behaviour. I grabbed a splinter of wood on the floor and started lighting all the candles I could see, Gwen grabbed another splinter and started doing the same. Soon we had the whole castle glowing in candle light. Gwaine had found enough weapons for the men apart from Merlin, who was happy to have the Dragon breath sword hidden… we must think of a better name of that sword.
Percival found a stream a little way away and brought drinks back for us all. As I started handing out cups amongst everyone, Arthur called us all over to a round table. A table with 10 chairs, the perfect amount. Arthur sat at one end, I sat between him and Merlin, Leon and Gwaine on my left as well as Elyan. Gwen sat on Arthur's other side with Gaius, Percival and Lance beside her. Merlin grabbed hold of one of my hand and I smiled at him briefly before I took sight of all these men. These loyal… wonderful, very handsome men (though don't tell Gwaine I think that).
"This table belonged to the ancient kings of Camelot" Arthur said as he stood looking at us all. "A round table afforded no one man more importance than the other, they believed in equality in all things" I could sense the happiness in Merlin. Merlin had always considered himself to be a man of serving with royal friends, not someone the royal thought of as his equal.
"It seems fitting we revive this tradition now, without each other we would not be here" Lance caught mine and then Merlin's eye. Merlin turned away from the look of praise on Lance's face and I patted his arm and smiled back at Lance, understanding that Lance was telling Merlin well done for saving his life at least a couple times for him to know what Merlin had done as normally Arthur could never know how Merlin had saved him.
"My father has perished in prison for too long, tomorrow I make my bid to rescue him, Are there any around this table who will join me?" There are moments in live, moments of such inspiration, such hope you almost cannot believe it's within those you know. It was unsurprising when Lance stood up first and spoke directly to Arthur.
"You taught me the values of being a knight, the code by which a man should life his life, to fight with honour, for justice, for freedom"
And he looked at Merlin and I and despite the seriousness of what he was saying I couldn't help but smile.
"And all that's good" Looking at Gwen at that moment.
"Adira has taught me how nobility does not matter to be a knight, that a true friend is there in spirit if not in person, that true kindness is not about knowing the nature of the person receiving it, only that everyone deserves a chance at redemption but also a change at what they dream. I believe in the world you both will build" I smiled brightly at him and blew him a kiss.
Elyan started talking then as he rose to his feet.
"Even though I was a commoner, a nobody, you were both willing to lay down your life for me, it now my time to repay you both" I smiled at him in kindness. Leon stood up then
"I have fought alongside you many times Arthur and Adira you are have become like the sister I never had. There is no one I would rather die for" Gwaine spoke up then.
"I think we have no chance" I scoffed
"Always one for negativity?" Gwaine smiled at me
"Always one to point it out?" I stuck my tongue out at him and he smiled briefly before he continued his comment.
"But I wouldn't miss it for the world" I let out an air of laughter
"Figures all it takes is some impossible battle and a tinkered of mead to get your blood pumping" Gwaine let out a laugh
"You expected something else my beauty?" I rolled my eyes
"No, nothing more from you" Percival stood up and spoke then
"Your enemies are my enemies" I smiled at the man, looks like he'd had a hard life before he meet Lance, which reminded me to ask him about Gilli when I got a moment. Gaius stood up
"If you need an old man" I laughed
"Admitting it now are we?" Gaius glared at me kind-heartedly, the smile that went around the table at that comment was endearing. I think they all liked the idea that such a man of Gaius can actually follow and want to be involved in these kind of situations. Gwen stood up then
"You know the answer" Was all that need be said and everyone on the table especially a heartbroken Lance got the subtext of that sentence. I stood up then
"I think you all need a women around you to keep you on your toes. I also think you are the bravest, loyal and friendly of men I've ever had the fortune to meet. I've known some of you many years, others I met for the first time today, but I know you will all prove to me why Camelot's runs on loyalty and commitment. I believe… well I believe all this talk will inflate Arthur's ego to the point where his head might explode" This sent a ripple of laughter through the table
"I believe Gwaine's a kind heart womaniser and Alcoholic, I believe Lancelot is the true heart of what nobility means, I believe Gaius is my second father. I believe Elyan to be like my second brother, I believe Percival to me a kind hearted man, I believe Gwen to be my friend and Merlin…" I took a deep breath
"I don't think words can describe what I think of Merlin, Only that without you none of us would be sitting at this table right now. None of us would know the meaning of true happiness, true kindness, true clumsiness" Merlin laughed along with everyone else at that comment.
"But most of all I don't anyone would have any idea of true love because despite my constant disbelief you're still standing here loving me and I keep wondering whether or not you should. I'm basically saying every one of you has a place in my heart and you are all another reason to fight for the place we call home" Merlin remained seated then.
"Merlin?" Arthur asked after a long moment of silence
"No don't really fancy It" Arthur almost laughed as he said
"You don't really have a choice Merlin" Merlin muttered an okay as he stood, but when Arthur looked at him, he got all the loyalty and commitment he would ever need. Merlin hugged me close and I reminded myself once again I had a family, a family who loved me and a home that needed saving.
"I want to thank you all for staying loyal to me in Camelot hour of need… I'll do something my father won't approve off" I was jumping with excitement, maybe it was a twin thing. Knowing that even vague commenting from each other meant. I knew I was better at hiding myself from Arthur than Arthur was with me, but that's because Arthur doesn't know the whole story and I've had to hone all my stills of survival. Especially the skill about whether or not someone is lying.
"Yay" Merlin laughed and tried to hold me down, to stop such excitement in such a serious situation.
"Adira we really must work on keeping your excitement levels under control" I smirked at him
"I'm sure we can think of something" Within 15 minutes Gwaine, Percival, Elyan and Lancelot were all knighted. Once Arthur had finished giving out speech's I ran to Percival first and hugged him.
"Congratulations, you desire it" Percival smiled
"How can you be so sure My—Adira?" I smirked at his correction.
"Because I may be a silly princess. But I know the heart of Lancelot and if you are trusted by him, you are trusted by me" Percival looked surprised
"You trust a servant that much?" I smacked his arm
"That's Sir. Lancelot to you" He laughed and I continued "But yes I do, why do you think I'm in love with Merlin? It's not the status, it's the man" Percival nodded. I hugged Elyan then.
"You my dear boy, deserve all of this" Elyan laughed
"You're the one who deserves all the praise, you were the only level headed one out of all of us when we found out about Morgana" I shrugged.
"I knew she was off since her kidnapping… just took time for her to realise what it is she is loyal too and that's Cenrid and evil and urg" Elyan to even my surprise kissed my cheek and the women in me really showed then. I turned to Gwaine then
"Come on then you, get the flirting out the way" To my surprise once again he just rushed over to me and lifted me of my feet and into a hug. I could have sworn as he twirled me around he muttered
"Thank you" I couldn't help the tear that escaped as those words registered in my head.
"You're welcome" I wish he would believe himself worthy of this honour but I knew he'd put on a brave face but didn't actually believe it. He set me on my feet and I smiled softly at him
"You deserve this" He nodded and that's when everyone walked off. Everyone apart from Lancelot and Merlin. Lancelot pulled me into a tight hug.
"Thank you Adira, I got my dream because of you. There is nothing I can do to repay you, saying thank you does not seem merely enough" I let out a laugh
"You achieving your dream is enough for me" Lancelot's hand traced my face in a friendly stroke and I kiss his hand as it stopped by my lips
"Merlin is lucky to have you" I smiled
"And he is lucky to have you" Merlin grabbed my hand then
"You okay?" He asked, my eyes travelled to a behaving normal, but looking down sort of Gwaine
"I'm fine, it's just… Gwaine thanking me and hugging me like that just took it out of me. I think he might be upset that he's letting the image of his father down…It's conflicted I can tell" Merlin kissed my forehead
"I'll have a word with him before the night is over… and if you're really that worried. Tell Arthur about his father and make him see why he might be slightly upset" I nodded, taking Merlin's advice as I always did.
"Seems that is all we can do" Gwaine glanced over at us then and when I smiled at him, he only let a small one respond. Merlin seemed to realise just how urgent this was and with head gestures told Gwaine to follow him into the corridor to which he seemed to understand.
"How is Gilli?" I asked randomly. To think that the situation of Gilli and his fathers ring happened months ago now was crazy to think, to think I've spent that long on edge just waiting for Morgana to avenger whatever she believes she's hurting her only family for. He smiled
"He's a good lad, a little nervous about his abilities, but from what you told me that doesn't make sense. I've trained him many times… but his mother called him back home last week and so he said he'd come back afterwards. Now that I'm a knight I'll have to tell him to come to Camelot to train with me" I smiled and nodded
"Sounds like sending him your way was a good idea… I'm glad you get on and that he's able to train. He deserves to be able to defend himself with a sword, not just his abilities" Lancelot and I continued to speak about common things, but a part of me was worried about Merlin because I could feel a deep pain within him.
That night I lay with my head on Merlin's chest between Lancelot and him. I had my eyes closed and was happy to just listen to them talk about Lancelot's knight hood and what Merlin had planned for tomorrow…. Even though we had not discussed it I knew that would be the case. So when Lancelot whispered to him
"You know Merlin… you're the one Arthur's should knight. You're the bravest of us all and he doesn't even know it" I couldn't help but agree with Lancelot
"He can't… not yet. That's why I need a way to get to the cup without Arthur knowing" I whispered then
"Just leave that to me" Lancelot's voice was one of surprise
"Have you been awake this whole time?" I smiled even though I did not open my eyes
"Lance, I may look comfortable but that doesn't mean I'm asleep" Merlin's hand went straight to my hair to stroke and I let out a hmm of pleasure. Lancelot laughed
"Like a married couple already" I let out a breath of light frustration
"Trust me don't we know it"
By Morning Arthur was explaining to everyone about the tunnel near the entrance to the dungeons.
"Urg I hate those tunnel… rat infested" That sent a few smirks around the group.
"We are going to need to take out the warning bell… but even I do not know the castle well enough Merlin could you come with me? And possibly Lancelot too as back up?" Arthur nodded in agreement…. Knowing Already I was going to be a part of this fight and that I was going where Merlin was.
A few moments later as we all grabbed weapons and what little protection we could. Gwaine looked like he was ready to pass out. I grabbed his shoulder and smiled at him
"Although you're a womanizing jerk most of the time… it's what's in here that counts" Pointing directly to his heart. "Don't forget that despite all your father went through he was a noble man at heart… and that is what you are. So please don't let your fathers memory upset you. I just want you to be proud of who and what you are to Camelot and me now" He smiled
"Merlin told you?" I shook my head
"Despite most peoples beliefs, Merlin does not tell me everything…But from the way he was upset about his father I could tell it had something to do with yours" Gwaine smiled
"Thank you Adira, I never thought I'd serve a king or have a best friend who is of royal blood either" I laughed
"And I never thought your drunk arse would make knighthood… We are both pleasantly surprised" I turned Gwaine around on his heel to watch Gwen and Arthur speaking quietly and when she grabbed his cheeks, Gwaine looked shocked
"Really? Another servant? It's like you like making life hell for your father" I scoffed
"It's my job.. Besides the heart wants what the heart wants" Merlin who was standing beside me handed me a sword and I took it subconsciously
"Have they confessed their undying love for each other yet? I'm getting tired of waiting" Gwaine let out a breath of laughter
"I take it this has been a source of amusement for you both for a while now?" I shrugged
"Couple years give or take… Only so many times you can tell Arthur to care more for his heart than his fathers pride" When Gwen leaned in and finally kissed Arthur. My eyes shot to Lancelot who looked like he'd just had his heart broken.
"Oh Lance" I whispered as he walked away not baring it. Merlin let out a sigh
"It's hard to see 3 of your friend caught up in a love triangle cuz no matter what happens someone you love gets hurt "I nodded
"Completely Agree" We set off then, Arthur in full 'serious' mood now that he'd got that kiss from Gwen. We made it into the castle and we were sneaking around our own home… it felt wrong. It felt odd. Merlin, myself and Lance split up with the others soon enough and as we were walking down a corridor both Merlin and I stopped at the same time.
"You-_" He nodded
"I've only ever felt that power once" I shiver
"Worse day of my life that was" Merlin looked down at the sword in his hand and handed it to me.
"You're sure… it's only meant to be used by those who can be trusted" Merlin laughed
"You are to be my wife, there is no one I trust more with this sword. Now please" He threw the sword into my hand as I threw mine into his other.
"You guys ever get tired of being so in sync?" We shrugged at the same time and then laughed. We then rushed off in the direction of the cups magic. A guard caught us a little while ahead and within seconds he was a pile of ashes and Lance had that 'I cannot believe that just happened'' kind of laugh. We finally managed to make our way to the room where the cup was being held and shut the door on a few guards but when we turned towards the cup there were 6 more guards and Merlin and Lancelot kept them at bay until I could strike them down. Lance was hit in the shoulder before I could get to him. I made quick work of the other guards, my anger and worry taking control of me. I was just about to swing the sword at the cup when I sensed Merlin being slammed against a wall and me being pulled off my feet in the same direction.
Just when I thought Morgause had finally gotten the best of us Gaius came running in and attacked her unawares, It was a stupid plan and something I wasn't going to forgive him easily for. But Understood why he did it so when Merlin blew her back as she tried to attack Gaius I was relieved.
She hit her head hard and fell to the floor unconscious, her state loosened her magical push on us as I fell to the floor in a huff. I then got my breath back, grabbed the sword and knocked the cup to the floor… all our problems solved for the most part. Morgana came running in at that point and it seemed like every time the kingdom was under threat this was how it ended, one of these sister unconscious and the other doing whatever it takes to protect them.
"It's over Morgana" Her anger was getting the better of her and despite the changing in her I knew her anger was something you could not argue with.
"No you're wrong... it's just begun" I let out a breath of relief.
"You have no idea how close I came to giving up. On Camelot. On Arthur. Letting you win. But the thought of Arthur finally knowing who you have become was the only thing that kept me going" Morgana let out an upset scream and I knew her emotions were controlling her, but I never expected her to have so much raw power. Merlin grabbed Gaius's arm and I rushed over to Lance, lifted his arm over my shoulder and carried him out of the room.
Without so much as a thought I led Lance to Gaius's chambers where he started treating Lance straight away. Merlin had gone in search of Arthur, explaining that Morgana had knocked him out and so Lance and I had to escape her chase before we could get to the warning bells. It took 10 minutes for Gwaine to walk in looking all high and mighty
"Seems you've got your charm back…. Realise that hair is too big for your head?" Gwaine let out a laugh
"Realise your beauty won't get you as far as you think?" I winked at him
"I know exactly how far my beauty will take me. So how does it feel to be 'hero' Sir. Gwaine?" Gwaine smiled, brighter than I've seen in days.
"I feel like I should be getting down on my knees just to show how much I appreciate all you have done for me. You and Merlin both have taught me so much and I can only pray I find myself a person is what you are to Merlin. Are you hurt at all?" I laughed as he sat beside me
"Shouldn't that be the first question you ask?" He shrugged
"I'm original.. You look fine. You seem fine… but that doesn't mean you're fine" I let out a breath
"Morgana has been a threat within this kingdom for almost a year now and as relieved as I am that she is no longer a threat within our walls, we still do not know if she survived the collapse and knowing how stubborn Morgana is, she is not only escaping but had become more power and she's harbouring more anger than should be possible" Gwaine grabbed my twitching hands
"You're worrying about the unknowns Adira, just start concentrating on all the good… we're all alive, for the most part. Camelot is safe. Arthur has knighted some of you best friends and you get to see my every day" I let out a breath of disappointment at that comment but laughed it off
"I guess you're right, it's just when you've been saving people as long as I have… the good is good and all but you have to consider every kind of outcome otherwise they might attack tomorrow and you would be none the wiser" Gwaine seemed to understand what I mean "So what brings you down here to our neck of the woods?" He shrugged
"Merlin told me Lance was hurt and that you were worrying, so thought I'd come and see for myself" I nodded. Lancelot was laying in the best bed, fast asleep as Gaius continued to dress his wound
"He'll be fine, just a scratch… could have been a lot worse" Gwaine looked out the window
"That is good, sorry but I must go… Arthur is sending all of the new knights out with brand new armour tomorrow to go and get Gwen and I want to get an early night, you and Lance will be okay?" I nodded
"Go… good night Sir. Gwaine. If you find either Arthur harassing Merlin or Merlin in general can you send him in here?" He kissed my forehead
"It would be my honour my lady" I smiled and for once felt like I really knew the heart of a knight beyond their loyalty to Camelot, Leon being the only acceptation to that rule.
The following Morning I waited on the steps beside Arthur and Merlin as we waited for the knights to return. I had not seen any of them in their knight's uniform on purpose.
"I reckon that you might just have to invest in some Armour Merlin…" he laughed
"What and prove to them all just how strong they really are by carrying that weight on them all day… Adira I love you but I will do no such thing" I rested my head on his shoulder
"You're going to let him talk to you that way Adira?" I shrugged
"He's only saying he wishes not to be shown to me as a knight… as some knights will laugh and he already gets enough grief from enough of them. Besides he told me he loves me … how can I be mad?" Arthur let out an airy laugh
"I do not understand you two or love" Merlin cut in before I could
"Love does not need to be understood, it merely needs to be felt. To be within your heart" Arthur gave him a 'you're turning into a girl Merlin' kind of look.
"Love is what you must feel, trust is what you must have faith in and your heart is what you might let be your guide" Arthur had little time to respond as all the knights came riding up with Gwen between them and now more than ever I knew a new time was coming. Arthur would have to take charge more. I would have to take on the role of being trusted with information those who don't completely trust Arthur and use that information correctly.
"I fear for what the future might bring Merlin" Merlin grabbed my hand, not having much reason to hide what we were anymore.
"As do I because as soon as one big issue resolves itself, another greater one appears but do you know what helps me through?" I shrugged
"A day away from Arthur?" Merlin laughed
"Yes, that. But mostly you. What you said to Morgana today was true, knowing Arthur would one day find out is what kept you going and it's the same for me, I keep going to the day where Arthur trusts magic, the day that we can be known as what we are destined to be" I smiled and kissed him gently.
"Whatever happens, at least now we are surrounded by friends" He smiled
"And love" I nodded in complete agreement as I caught sight of all the knights jumping off their horses
"And love"