Sword in the stone part 2

There were many things in life that I assume are easy even though many may find it hard, but this? My home? My throne? My family? All split up and under attack from my sister and uncle? The usual guilt was settling in and I was trying to keep focused as we are on the run from Hellious's men

"You go on ahead, I'll cover your tracks" I shook my head

"Gwen help him carry her… Merlin I'm not leaving, no way in hell" They wasted no time in running off and Merlin did something very unexpected he called upon kilgharrah. Who came fast and quick and defended us from Agravine's men. When enough men were dead we ran towards the caves, we had sent Arthur and the others toward.

"Did you lose them?" I nodded, still glancing around to be sure.

"For now it's safe, some of them will still come though… we must be quick" I grabbed a torch and we marched on, we found Arthur and the others a little way in. Arthur complained about Merlin's sense of direction while I took a sip of water from my skin.

We carried on for a good half an hour, Tristan trying to understand why Gwen was suddenly with us. When I heard something, Merlin handed Arthur the touch

"I know these tunnels, Agravine doesn't" Arthur looked hesitant

"Don't do anything stupid" The others started to walk on when Merlin shook his head at me

"Adira you know better than anyone if I spot Agravine—" I wiped my tears.

"You do what you must to survive you hear me? I don't care what you do to the bastard" Merlin laughed

"Trust me I may want him out of our lives but I would only ever resort to that if he hurt me, or you" I smiled. He rushed off after pecking my forehead. Arthur grabbed my arm and we'd barely walked 5 minutes and me glancing back 10 times before Arthur let go of my arm

"Go" I looked at Arthur confused

"You are no use to me distracted and I hate to think what trouble he'd get into alone… go! Be careful" I hugged him tight, he groaned as I squeezed his wound. I ran off and I followed my usual magical tracker to find him. A small gap that can't been seen from the other side of the wall. When I sneaked a peek, Merlin looked cornered and I heard Merlin say as Agravine's threaten to kill him

"I don't think so" My heart almost broke at his lower emotional tone and then I saw all the men being knocked over without so much as a muttered spell. Agravine was the only one who stood up again and he looked shocked

"You have magic" Well done genius, rolling my eyes.

"I was born with it" I smiled at that.

"So it's you, you're Emrys" Merlin tone was heart broken

"That is what the Druid's call me" Argravine was being a smug bastard

"And you've been at court all this time. At Arthur's side, Adira's side, How you've managed to deceive them" Merlin smiled slightly

"Adira knows more than you ever will" Agravine looked surprised again

"You mean that thorn in my side knows and didn't report your magic?" My laughter echoed the chamber and Merlin cursed realising I was within their presence.

"I would say every rose has a thorn, but you just ain't that Rosie dear uncle" Agravine laughed, obviously shocked.

"I am impressed, maybe we're more alike than you think" He was talking to Merlin, who was still the only person visible in the cave chamber.

"If there is one thing you bring out in people, it's their worse side dear uncle" I stepped out of the cove and smiled at him

"Which is why I'm so sorry to have to do this to you, but you know too much… plain and simple, you cannot live" Agravine laughed

"You're more like your sister than you dream, twisted in your beliefs of what is rightfully yours… doing whatever you can to get it" I shook my head

"I won't deny the many similarities but unlike Morgana I feel remorse, I feel pain. She does not unless it's physical" Agravine laughed

"You really believe she is so heartless?" I shook my head

"And you think she has a kind heart? She kills any enemy she faces and then sending her supposed most trusted ally to face Arthur and Emrys?" Agravine, went to swing his word at me, presuming I as defenceless as Merlin had appeared. But with one flicker of my hand he was shoved against the cave wall again

"Y-you have magic too?" I smiled evilly at him

"How does it feel to know that I could have killed you at any moment I wished?" his face remained calm but his eyes reflected fear.

"Why keep me alive when you could have killed me at any time?" Merlin answered that

"Because Arthur would feel the pain like he'd lost his uncle, not someone who's betrayed him. Now Arthur knows who you are…We have no reason to keep you alive" Agravine went to desperate length to distract our attention
"So you've been at Arthur's side all this time? I am impressed" I sighed

"We hide because we must and keeping Arthur safe, it is a job. I did before magic and I will do so long after" I turned to Merlin
"Would you like to do the honours?" He shook his head

"I would rather not kill anyone, but we must and I must never let you carry a burden alone so—" He grabbed my hand and pushed our magic together to break Agravine's neck. I cringed and clung to Merlin when he finally fell to the floor

"I never thought I'd kill someone and despite all my guilt I can only imagine the relief in our lives now he's gone"

Merlin kissed my forehead and squeezed my hand before he pulled me through the cave to continue on. I knew that had been difficult for him because it goes against everything Merlin ever believed his power should be used for.

The guilt, remorse and confused happiness were all muddled up and the further we got into the tunnels the deeper Merlin's thought's got. We came to a corner where Arthur looked worried out of his skin. I hugged him and told him not to worry about me and that I was fine, him and Merlin shared a bonding Moment where Arthur said he was the only friend he had and that he couldn't bare to lost him.

We decided the forest of Asatier would be a good place to look for any survivors and Arthur seemed down, as if he doubted his own leadership. Merlin lead the way not him, I stayed at the back with Gwen… glad to be in her constant company while swapping with her to help carry Summer who seemed to enjoy some female company.

We decided to rest up as both Arthur's wounds and Summer's needed bandaging up again and Merlin's troubles had been playing far too much on his mind to make him any use to anyone. Tristan and Arthur offered to go get wood and I stayed by the fire freshly made by Merlin.

"Love honestly if you don't get that glum look of your face I may just have to reconsider the marriage" Despite his emotions he still glanced at me and smiled, aware Summer was sitting beside her trying to sharper her knife.

"If you wanted to say no you could have said it four years ago when I proposed… now? You have no choice" I pretended to pout.

"Fine…can't believe it's been six years" He smiled and pecked my lips

"Best six years of my life…Though it felt more like 60" I slapped his arm as he and Summer's face grew bright with smiles. Tristian came back and from the way he looked smug and Arthur looked broken, I turned to him

"What did you say to him?" Tristian set down the wood

"Nothing but the truth" I stood up

"Tell me what you said to him" He sighed

"That he isn't king anymore, that he's just common" Merlin grabbed my arms before I could make move to slap him.

"He just lost his kingdom to his sister and his uncle, two people he once trusted with his life. So maybr cut him some slack for once. Besides what's honourable about smuggling?" Tristan stepped closer to me in threat.

"I don't care who you are. You don't insult my trade" I took a deep breath

"Fine, then don't insult Arthurs! He's a damn good king and a damn good man and if you look past your childish views of kings you'd see that" I slumped back down on the floor to see that Gwen had left the space where the fire was being built to talk to Arthur.

Evening rolled around and I knew Arthur was in a slump. I had tried many times to cheer him up, but he was convinced what Tristan said was right, even Merlin tried and he was the person who would always get through to him if I couldn't but even he failed to make Arthur see his worth to his kingdom. By the time darkness settled upon us, Merlin and I were running to an open field to meet Kilgarrah.

"Well thank you. You saved us all" I said, remembering the sight of all the bodies he left in his wake.

"The future we have all fought for was in peril" I sighed

"What is troubling you young wizards?" Merlin shrugged

"It's Arthur, He's lost the will to fight, he feels he's failed his people, he believes he no long deserves to be king" Kilgarrah wasted no time on 'feelings'

"The fate of Camelot rests in your hands, Mr and Mrs. Emry. For you and you alone can restore the king's faith" Merlin looked up at him in question
"How?" A plan was already forming in my head

"You must make him believe he can be king once more" There was a silence

"I wish I could be of more help Adira, Merlin" I shook my head and smiled up at him
"No, I know how. The people who left Camelot do you know where they are hiding?"

"I am a dragon, I can cover many leagues in the blink of an eye, they shouldn't be too hard to find" I smiled and turned to Merlin
"There is something I need you to do Merlin, if you're so willing?" He nodded

"Anything I can do to help" I smiled

"Do you know the story of Bruiter?" He nodded

"Of course, but what does this have to do with your plan?" I smiled

"Well I need you to think back to hearing the story and familiarise yourself with all the details because it is key to my plan. Also I need you to make sure the Gwen, Summer and Tristian stay asleep until you have brought Arthur to the location I have planned. But I also want them to see this, so if you could wake them, tell them the new revised version I'm going to give you and then get them to take a different routine from you and Arthur?" Merlin nodded

"Okay I'm following you. But what revised version?" I smiled

"The version where the sword we placed in solid stone belonged to Bruiter and that only a true heir of Camelot came pull it out" Merlin caught on

"That's brilliant" I shrugged

"It's nothing. Do you feel you could tell them this story while I go with Kilgarrah and gather all the survivors of the attack?" He kissed my forehead

"Of course, be safe okay?" With that I jumped onto Kilgarrah's back and Merlin wandered off back in the direction of the camp.

"Can you remember where the sword is?" Kilgarrah asked

"Yes, I'm not likely to forget where we left the most valuable sword in the world" Kilgarrah's laughter made me vibrate. He set us down a few meters away

"They are in the cave north west of here. There is a perimeter of knight hiding around the cave so be careful" I smiled as I slide down his neck to the floor

"I'm not likely to be anything but careful. Thank you Kilgarrah, for all your help" He smiled

"It is my duty and my honour" With that he flapped his wings and he was gone.

I took a deep breath and wandered over towards the camp. I saw Gwaine and Percival arguing about Mary, who thankfully from what I could hear had survived along with Henry.

"—He's been married before, why does Leon want to marry her all of a sudden?" Percival shrugged, talking to one of the knights I didn't particularly like

"It's his choice Connor, let him make it" I jump into the convocation

"Well said" Percival shrugged

"No biggy" Percival glanced at me 4 times before he had to belief in his eyes and hug me

"Adira, thank god you're okay. After we got separated I thought we'd never see you again. Where's Arthur? Merlin?" I patted his arms

"They're both fine. Though I do have a favour to ask" He nodded

"Anything… just name it" I smiled

"Okay, first of have you seen Leon and all the other knights?" He nodded

"We've split into 3 small groups figuring it was best to branch out. Mary's been worrying sick about you" I smiled at his comment

"I shall see her as soon as I can, but can you do me a favour and gather everyone from the 3 groups together as soon as you can?" With that he and Connor rushed off to do just that. I couldn't help but smile, they seemed very happy to know I was alive.

A couple of hours later I had Henry clinging to me as all the groups gathered in front of me. I kissed Henry's forehead and then stood up to speak to the people.

"People of Camelot. I have a story to tell you. Please do not interrupt, nor judge my reasons for telling you such a story for my reasons are great and so here it is…" And with that I set to tell the Story of Bruiter, the new revised one... With enough hope mine and Merlin's tales weren't that different in content.

My tale lasted 15 minutes and with a few relevant questions to hint to where the sword was now and that Arthur was intent on pulling out the sword from solid stone. My energy had be so focused on the tale and the plan, I hadn't sleep in three days, I was barely eating. Of course I collapsed… Thankfully Leon was standing just to my right and caught me before I passed out completely.

"—collaspes a lot" Percival sighed

"She goes through a lot, she deals with magic coming at her from every angle, she deals with politics, war, love, hate all while finding the time to eat and sleep… there are going to come days when she will collapse and besides Merlin told me about her medical condition, where she collapses or has these raw headache that make her eyes burn like they're going to fall out… She deals with it well considering everything else" I couldn't help but smile. Percival has always had the sense of no nonsense when it came to defending me. He always fought for me tooth and claw, no matter who it is putting me down.

"She has a medical condition?" At that point I became more aware of my body, I could feel a hand that would only be Percival's holding me hand. That's when I heard

"ADIRA TALK TO ME" screaming in my head

"Gez Merlin, I'm fine… just over worked" I could feel his relief

"Don't do that to me" I squeezed Percival's hand enough to bring his attention to my consciousness

"M-Merlin?" I spoke aloud.

"No it's Percival, Merlin with Arthur remember?" I put my hand to my head

"My head is killing me.. Did I collapse again?" Leon nodded

"You knew it might happen?" I shrugged

"It's been happening a lot since Agravine came to Camelot… stressing over his plots to kill us all… guess they were justified after all" Percival sighed

"How did you know?" I shrugged

"He came into Camelot just as Arthur was too heartbroken to do or say anything… he started telling Arthur how to rule his kingdom without actually telling him to do anything and then there were those mysterious ride's he'd take in the middle of the night. I know suspicious behaviour when I see it"

Glancing around I realise I was laying on a bed roll in the middle of the forest with a whole group of Knight's surrounding me, I must have been unconscious for a couple of hours because the first breaks of the sun rising were beginning to show in the sky.

"What's with all the security?" Leon laughed

"Adira you're a wanted Women and I'll be damned if I let Morgana have you before we get Camelot back" I smiled

"That's so sweet, but shouldn't you guys be getting some rest?" Percival turned to Leon and laughed

"Come pay up" He handed Percival two gold coins…what the hell?
"I bet him it would take you less than five minutes to worry about our need for sleep, but she is right, Leon you and the other knight's sleep. I'll stay awake it's my night to keep watch anyway" Leon sighed

"Okay but you call if you need anything okay?" He nodded

"I will" Before leaving he turns to me

"Good to see you, alive, well and yourself" I smiled up at him

"Nice to see you alive, well and engaged" Taking note of the ring on his finger. He winks at me before walks away and I sigh. Percival smiled at me

"He's happy right? I can never tell" I smiled at Percival

"He's… starting to realise that even if Camelot is lost he still has what made his home so great, his friends and loved ones. A lesson I learnt a long time ago… besides you should concentrate more on your sleeping, We all have to be at the sword in the stone " I patted his arm and fell back onto the bed roll, my side of the mission was complete… now to see If Merlin could uphold his own.

Upon arrive at the stone, many of the knights admiring it's beauty, others believe the story was a load of rubbish and others believed it like they'd know it as a bed time tale all their lives. Upon hearing Merlin's voice in my head telling me to be prepared I stood just out of view of everyone who could come to witness this moment.

Kilgarrah upon dropping me at the large camp had told me of a few smaller ones, which I would mention to Leon later. Merlin spoke to Arthur then as his advisor, as his friend, as the one man who believed in him when no one else would. I also knew many of the knights were jealous of that relationship… the fact that Merlin could push past all Arthur's defences and arrogance to help him in ways many of them wished to. Some wanted to help him because they wanted to be friends with their king. Other's wanted to help because they felt it was their duty… Merlin did it because… well he cared and that's all he did, he cared and he listened and Arthur knew this.

Everyone came into view and I quickly moved over to Merlin's side.

"Have faith" I whispered to him and with a graceful pull and a flash of Merlin's eyes the sword came from the stone. It was then I realised just how right this was. Kilgarrah had said this was for Arthur's use only and now he believed it to be some family heirloom, he would take good care of it.

"LONG LIVE THE KING" I shouted, Merlin laughed as Arthur turned to me in a great smile, glad to see he had self-belief again. It took less than an hour for Arthur to be talking 'tactics'. Myself, Merlin, Summer, Tristain and Gwen follow Arthur, Leon and Percival we walked the surprisingly short distance to the camp.

"-Even if we can get inside, she still has an army" I smirked and replied

"Yeah, but only three to one" Arthur shook his head and I just gave him a look

"Do you think they'll fight?" Summer asked joining the convocation, Leon nodded

"They'll fight for Arthur" I smiled and I knew Arthur would have a reply

"It's not me they need to fight for, it Is Camelot" Leon shook his head

"No Arthur, it is you that people love and you that they will lay down their lives for. Know that I would ride into the mouth of hell for you" I smiled at Merlin as Percival nodded

"And I" He spoke with conviction. Summer glanced At Tristian who was leaning against a tree close by, looking shocked.

"And I" Arthur gave me one of those 'content smiles' that I love. But my answer was not what Tristian was most shocked at. It was the one that came from Merlin

"And I" No one seemed surprised by this apart from Summer and Tristian as everyone else knew some of the things he'd done for Arthur, he'd defied him, defended him, saved him and served him with all his life and Will. I however knew this was more than anyone else could. Arthur drew his sword

"To the mouth of Hell it is then" Arthur and the knights walked off with Gwen, I was about to follow them when Merlin grabbed my hand. We stood just within hearing range of the new couple.

"Well done" for what? He laughed at my expression

"For telling that story so well and getting everyone here. No one else is going to say it so… well done you did a good job, though please tell me when you collapse" I looked at the fall guilty.

"Did Percival tell you?" Merlin shook his head

"No, Leon. You can't over work yourself like that… you know you mean as much to these people as Arthur does" I scoffed

"And if you mean nothing to them, then you mean absolutely everything to me" He kissed my forehead and fell into the touch

"And you mean the moon and stars to me. I am sorry, just with you having to get Arthur to the sword, which you did an excellent job at by the way I figured my typical fainting could be left out for a few hours" He smiled sadly at me

"What have I told you about considering my stress when it comes to you?" I smirk

"I shouldn't as you'll only stress more knowing you didn't know about the issue soon" He pecked my lips

"Now as long as I would love to stand here with my beautiful wife to be. I must go see that your brother's head does not grow oversized again" I burst out laughing giving him a long hug

"Okay, but come and find me when you get a spare few hours okay?" He kissed my half a dozen times

"Like I would rather be anywhere else" He ran off and Summer came to stand at my side as we watched him go

"You are a lucky women" I glanced at her

"How so?" She smiled knowingly at me

"To have a man who still has time to express his worries about your safety in the midst of war" I smirk

"He's fighting 2 wars then it would seem. But then so am I for his safety" Summer glanced over at Tristian

"It's refreshing to see someone who has the same outlook on love as I do, an endless battle" Summer flinched at her wound

"Did you want me to redress that?" She nodded

"I'm surprised you know so much about medical care" I smirked at her as she set herself down on a tree stump and I grabbed a bandage from the bag I had made in Eledor.

"Well Merlin lives with Gaius, our court physician and I've spent many a night in their company and after a year or two Gaius started noticing my interest in the subject and taught me some of what he knows. I'm not as depth in my knowledge as he is, but I am a keen reader and an eager learner" I undressed her wound and noticed the infection I had tried to fight off, had started to set

"Oh dear, this cut isn't being cooperative. I'm going to have to put a special herbal mixture on it. It's going to sting and it will make you sleep so try and get some rest. When you wake, take the bandage off and let it breath for an hour and then get someone to wrap it up again for you but make sure the infection has not spread" I did as I had told her I would and Tristian took her to the outskirts of our camp to let her rest in his arms.

That evening, as the camp was lively with evening tales and drinks being passed around I sat down for what felt like the first time in hours. I had spent the afternoon giving those wounded proper care… Gaius really needed to make sure the knights were trained in these kinds of situations to medically care for someone. I caught sight of Merlin talking to Arthur, I could hear what they were saying and Merlin's words were touching. I then caught sight of Summer undressing her arm and Gwen looking at Arthur in that thoughtful 'I love you' way.

Merlin came and sat beside me knowing his job was done for the day.

"You alright love?" Many of the knights who weren't in our usual circle of friends glanced at him in completely disgust. I smiled at up him

"Now that I'm sitting down, and you my love?" Many of those knights glanced away in sadness or anger. The only knights who smiled at our words were Percival, Leon and a few others.

"Now that Arthur's head is as big as his waist again, yes I am" I burst out laughing as he sat beside me leaning against the log.

"Nothing truer has been spoken, did you get to eat?" He nodded

"Percival was kind enough to clean up so I could eat" I glanced at Percival who I knew was listening, he smirked at me in that 'I know you appreciate it' kind of way. I gave him a small smile in return

"Well I'm glad you're finally learning to eat. You got anything else you need to do or are you free for the evening?" He glanced at Arthur over in the distance

"He's so busy pretending not to stare at Gwen while she pretends not to stare at him I don't think he'll notice my absence" I smirked and cuddled into his side

"Good, because I'm tired and I can't do without my favourite pillow" He laughs wrapping his arm around my shoulder.

"Your favourite pillow is not going anywhere and if I do I'll make sure you're sound asleep" I glanced up at him

"Where would you need to go?" He tapped my nose

"To check on Arthur, to get you some flowers to wake up to. I'm sure I can think of a number of reasons to leave the most beautiful sleeping beauty I know to sleep" I pecked his lips

"And I here by give you permission to stare at me while I sleep" He smirked

"Why thank you my love, I do that anyway. But having your permission is all the reason to do it more. Good night my love" He closed my eyes

"Good night my dear" This was a usual convocation for us around sleep time

"Sleep well till mornings here"

"Don't fear the night, nor the day ahead" Merlin kissed my forehead

"For we have each other to greet the morning with" I gave a small smile before finally calming down enough to sleep.

Morning came and I woke up in Merlin's arms, but I knew he'd done something… I could almost smell magic on him. I could smell a plan. I still snuggled into him.. that was until Arthur tapped my shoulder

"Adira as much as I'd love for you to spend all day comfortable and I know it's early but could you take a walk with me?" I nodded and got up.

"Of course, what is it?" He linked arms with me

"Gwen… I forgave her a long time ago… But I learnt I could not forget but after this war I want her by my side. I do not care what she has done, only what she promises to be. Do I still have your blessing to marry her?" I squeaked quietly, knowing we were still around sleeping knights as we made our way to the outskirts of the camp.

"You have my complete Blessing Arthur. I'm so happy" he smiles

"Do not get your hopes up we still need to take back Camelot, defeat Morgana and Agravine" Should I tell him?

"That's not strictly true" Arthur gave me a funny look

"Agravine… when I was in the caves between finding Merlin and leaving you… he found me. He cornered me…. Merlin had heard my cries and just as he was about the thrust his sword into me laughing about it, Merlin grabbed the sword of the man I had defeated only seconds before and stabbed him in back" Arthur glanced back at Merlin's sleeping form.

"He… killed Agravine?" I nodded

"To protect me" He nodded

"As any future husband would I'm sure… but why did you not tell me sooner?" I shrugged

"Maybe you were too busy having a misery party for one, to notice his guilt" Arthur glanced back again at Merlin.

"He does more than any of us give him credit for and for absolutely nothing in return… I could not do it" I smile

"One day, when you rule over Albion.. When you become the greatest king this land has ever known. Maybe then you'll understand he does so much more than what you've seen him do these last few days. As frustrating as it gets he sometimes puts you before even me or himself. He truly would give anything to see you safe"

"Or you. Which is when 'if' we return to Camelot. I'm going to have my wedding and then I'm arrange yours for 2 weeks later. As it's a week celebration for the wedding and I want you to be prepared" I stood their shocked

'What what is it?' Merlin was screaming in my head, startled awake by my inner screams. I clung to Arthur

"Yay, yay, yay" Jumping up and down on the spot. Merlin rubbed his eyes and smiled when he realised my screams were ones of joy.

"What's got you in such a chipper mood?" I turned to see Merlin had joined us.

"Arthur just asked if he could have my blessing to marry Gwen" Merlin grinned.

"Did he?"

"Yup told you, ask my permission to marry Gwen again" Arthur looked like we'd grown a second head.

"And that's not even the best part. He said our wedding is set 2 weeks after his" Merlin glanced at Arthur
"You want our wedding in front of everyone in Camelot? Seriously?" Arthur nodded

"Merlin, everyone in the kingdom knows and most of the people who want to see you together are going to want to see Adira in a big fancy dress and you in something other than your usual attire" Merlin looked mockily offended. But then it dawned on him

"Our wedding?" His tone excited "Our wedding?" More questionably than excited and then the panic set in

"Our wedding" I laughed grabbing his hands

"Yes dear, the wedding I've been planning for 4 years… the wedding you picked a suit out 2 years ago for… all we need to do is book the arrangements and turn up Merlin. We shall be fine" He took a deep breath and Arthur patted his back

"You'll be fine Merlin. It does mean you will be required to sit at almost every royal event, but you will still be my servant" Merlin nodded

"I would have it no other way sire. Though does this mean I will get at least some time off?"

Arthur scoffed and Merlin just laughed. It was nice to see such normal behaviour amongst them. At that moment other people within the camp started waking and I took to starting to make breakfast as the knights seemed in high spirits for a war. Maybe now that they didn't have to grieve the loss of their king they could finally start concentrating on getting the kingdom back with Arthur to lead them.

Arthur within the times I was serving breakfast started talking strategies with the knights, he then started teasing Merlin. I knew he was heading towards me when he found Tristian and Summer, he was about to say goodbye when they said that they wanted to join our battle… it warned my heart that to the outsiders we looked like we were doing the right thing, especially those with predigest towards nobles and royals.

It was while I was watching Arthur accept their offer to fight in our battle did Merlin grab my hand and pull me behind a tree, it wasn't completely private but it was enough for him to be able to tell me what he had done last night

"I went back to Camelot" I scream

"YOU DID WHAT?" He kept his voice low

"Just to put one of those potous things under her bed to plague her dreams… we know she fears the old Emry's so I merely encourage that fear to surface with the help of magic" I sighed

"If I wasn't so mad at you right now I might think that's impressive. You told me to tell you every time I do something dangerous you go back our enemies lair and you don't even tell me" He strokes my face

"I'm sorry my love, I had the thought and could not bare the thought of waking you or you talking me out of it" I hug him quick and quietly and that's when I noticed just how far in the packing up everyone has been. It almost time to leave for Camelot.

Upon leaving for Camelot Merlin handed me my blade, a blade I had not seen passing out yesterday.

"I got Kilgarrah to bless it. According to him due to your gifts it will link to your magic and work alongside that for some serious juice" I smirked, feeling the familiar glow of magic on the blade. I pecked his lips and set off with to join Arthur as we gathered to march upon Camelot.

Marching upon Camelot, despite the fact that Arthur stayed with Merlin and I with Gwen. I decided fighting alongside our new found friends would not only earn their respect but hopefully their trust too. The alarm bells sounded and the further towards the throne room we got the more anxious I became… something felt off, something felt wrong.

We were almost there where suddenly I feel someone pushing against my back. He moved with only the familiarity Merlin had with me body

"I guess a thank you is in order?" I asked him as I attacked yet another man, Tristian and Summer a little down the hall

"Not needed" I smiled as yet another man fell. Arthur and Gwen came running around the corner

"How did you—" Gwen laughed

"You think after all this time you're ever going to understand how in sync they are? I've given up trying" We all gathered together the hall now clear of enemy men.

"You okay Adira?" I smiled at Arthur's question

"Thanks to Merlin yes I'm fine, you?" He smiled

"Like I said only 3 to one" I smirked at him and with that we once again set our swords at the ready and move towards the throne room. We cleared outside the throne room rather quickly but my worry was starting to get to sickening levels. I leaned over to Merlin and whispered in his ear

"Protect Tristian and Summer, I've got an odd feeling" He nodded knowing to trust my 'odd' feelings rather well.

"My dear brother and sister" Morgana spoke in a calm voice, her sitting in Arthur's throne. I sigh, standing to Arthur's right with Merlin close at my side.

"I apologize if you had a difficult reception, it's hard to know who to trust these days" I smiled

"Agravine?" A flash of guilt, ever so small appeared on her face

"You know how he died?" I smirked

"I'm the one who drove the sword through his heart with a smile on my face" No one on this side of the room believed that to be true, but it didn't stop Morgana shocked expression.

"From what was explained to me, Emrys killed him" I laughed

"He killed every other man but my uncle, seems he was more stubborn and loyal to you than even you gave him credit for" I sighed, as Arthur put his sword in his sleeve, I on the other hand did not trust her nor her ability to turn on you unexpectedly.

"What happened to you Morgana? I thought we were friends?" Arthur asked her coming to stand at my sides in the middle of the room.

"As did I, but allas we were both wrong" I shook my head

"Allas it is you that is wrong. Do you realise your hatred for magic has shunned the only family you ever had" Morgana looked at me as if I'd gone mad

"Hatred for magic? I love my magic" I nodded

"No you love the power of the magic, deep inside you feel like it drove you to become the darkest form of yourself and you loath it. I remember when you were so scared of using it you cried yourself to sleep… I remember you always wanted to believe in those who were innocent not in those with or without magic. That's the sister I could love, could grow old with" Arthur nodded

"You cannot blame us for our father's sins" Morgana shook her head

"It's too late for that… you've make it perfectly clear how you feel about me and my kind" I wanted so much to bring up the fact that Emry's too had magic, the most powerful of them all but yet still defended Arthur… but I feared for the consequences of angering Morgana further.

"You're not as different from Uther as you'd like to think" I scoffed

"Nor are you dear sister" That was when the atmosphere changed, Morgana stepped back and we all took defence positions. Morgana almost laughed

"Your blades cannot stop me?" She started chanted but nothing happened. I glanced at Merlin who was trying his best not to look smug and I couldn't help the tight smile on my face.

"Not so powerful now my lady" Still Arthur's eyes welled in tears, I never considered him still loving her… even after all she'd done, after all Agravine had done. I had time while seeing them every day in Camelot to accept their disloyalty and deal with me anger, my betrayal all while still having them around to 'love' even if it was just an act.

Morgana's like a child, ran away as the unnamed Ally took to defending her.

"After Her" Arthur shouted, which one quick squeeze of my arm Merlin left rushing after Gwen who was in chase of Morgana. Just as Tristian, Summer and I stood to defend Arthur more men came rushing through the door. I spun on the spot to be back to back with Arthur

"Good luck dear brother" He nodded and with that the battle begun. We fought bravely and had barely got a dent in us when we realised that Arthur was losing his fight, Summer went to attack him when I grabbed her arm and stabbed the man just in time to save Arthur. His skill was impressive, but I caught the blade as it twisted around. It did still cut my skin and turned my blue dress red with an alarming rate, but I knew this was nothing compared to what it could have been if it had been summer who had attacked him.

I fell to my knee's starring at Arthur, who looked so lost even I started crying. He rushed to grab me as I fell forward

"No, No way on this earth are you dying Adira, No!" Summer clung to Tristian, she too was crying

"For me? Why would you risk your life for me?" I clung to my side, too weak to care. I'd only had a few moments when I was this close to death, this weak. It would not defeat me, but I knew it would take at least a few months to feel myself again.

"M-Merlin…If I don't…tell him I—" That's what I heard Merlin scream in my head

"NOOOOO" his anger and pain was so much, that much like Morgana the walls around him began to fall which pushed Morgana away from Gwen. I could swear I was seeing through his eyes especially as he grabbed Gwen's arm and pulled her away from the falling rocks. Gwen had no idea why Merlin was rushing back here.

"Merlin's what's the rush?" His voice, Oh my his voice cut me up inside

"Adira… she's been hurt I—" With that they entered the room. Merlin's eyes already in tears he took me from Arthur's arms.

"Merlin—" He stroked my face.

"Adira love, You knew this would happen didn't you?" I could feel my tiredness drawing at my every will

"I knew I had to… do what was right" He kissed my forehead, his tears touching my cheeks

"You're going to survive this… I don't care if I have to call upon god himself I am not letting you go. Not now not after EVERYTHING we've been through. Not after our wedding day was set" I smiled at that thought as more tears streamed my face.

"I was going to be all dressed in white… you in armour and a cape. You always looked handsome in a cape" He kissed my forehead his emotions still running high. I remember his goodbye to Freya, his goodbye to his father… but this was different, he was sobbing right this second, just not just crying at yet another life lost.

"You love me? You truly love me?" Merlin took a deep breath

"Not enough words in the human languages to express that Adira" I felt unconsciousness take over me then. Knowing he loved me was enough to either pass onto the other side without anything left behind or I'd wake up knowing what I already subconsciously knew.

Being so close to death I could almost feel everything Merlin did. From his working endlessly during the day to tidy Arthur's room, to the jealous glances at Gwen's and Arthur's finally budding again relationship to his holding my hand and sleeping beside me almost every night and the emotions that came with that. I was almost happy to continue to live life through Merlin's eyes if it wasn't for how broken he felt all the time.

It felt like weeks before I was hearing things happening around my own body. Gaius tending to me, weakly with his fatigue from the week in the cell still baring on his soul and his body. Many of the wounds had been healed that even I would be worried would kill many of the knights without proper treatment, much like Arthurs… who was still walking around with a slight creep in his step.

"—It's been two weeks Gwen, now much longer can she stay asleep?" I heard the rustlings of a cape, which meant Gwen was probably being hugged by Arthur.

"She'll wake up when her body deems it safe, besides according to Merlin she's getting back… he doesn't feel like her spirit is following him anymore… that she's back in her own body" I could imagine Arthur's face

"He's been so… down and depressed no matter what I do to try and cheer him up. He either snaps at me and storms of, stares of into space or pretends to not hear me or he silently cries while he thinks I'm not looking. How can he be so lost without her when she's not even dead" I could sense Merlin's presence in the room then

"Because without her smile in the morning and kiss throughout the day she might as well be dead. A body in a comb is just like being dead. It's a shell… some that get filled and awaken and others would rather escape into whatever fantasy they're playing out in their heads… I just hope I'm not the reason she decided to stay an empty shell" I could imagine Gwen grabbed his hand

"She will wake up Merlin, where is Gaius?" Merlin sighed

"getting some rare herbs, seems he deems me too emotional to do it myself… like sitting here and doing nothing is—" I tried calling out to him

"Mer-Lin?" I could feel Merlin's eyes pass the couple and onto me. The couple were confused, so I must have reached him with my mind. He ran and grabbed my head

"Adira sweetheart… if you can hear me try and squeeze my hand" I concentrated and I felt it take all my strength to make my muscles move but I did. Gwen and Arthur let out sighs of relief. Once I heard Arthur ask

"How do you know when she was awake?" I mumbled in my head

"Cuz I just have that effect on people" Merlin laughed

"She says 'Cuz she just has that effect on people'" Arthur laughed and then after a few seconds seemed to realise just how much like me that sounded, but Merlin was too busy talking to me for me to care about that.

"Adira… Can you open your eyes?" That was when my body screamed in pain and a vision flushed through my mind, I saw Arthur's and Gwen's wedding, I saw my own wedding with Merlin, I saw Leon's wedding, I saw me… Pregnant?!, I saw Morgana screaming in pain, all alone, I saw one face that haunted me as my body fell flat… Mordrid.

"Adira" Merlin's voice always being the first thing I heard, I could feel my happiness spread through me. Giving me the strength to move all my limps.

"Merlin" I mumbled with a dry throat. Gwen had already thought ahead and without saying a word past the water to Merlin, who helped me sit up and drink something.

"Thanks Gwen" I said with a much clearer voice.

"How did you know I was standing here?" I smiled, although my eyes remained closed due to the magic burn

"Same way I know that Arthur's been trying to cheer Merlin up with completely inappropriate jokes about how when I'm gone at least he won't have to sew any more dresses" Merlin laughed about it now, seeing my reaction at the time he was a complete ghost about it.

"I would ask about you knew about a convocation at 11 o'clock at night in my room alone with Merlin" I smiled as I slowly opened my eyes

"It was 10, 36 actually and you weren't alone for that long because by 11 you were being called by Gwaine to grab a celebratory drink, one which you took till 3 in the morning where Merlin had to once again carry you to bed" He held up his hands

"It's his job" I sighed

"Not while heartbroken" Merlin smiled and grabbed my hands.

"It was fine Adira, I was doing it for you… I can only imagine your reaction if I let him drink himself into oblivion or even death" I smiled at him softly and took him in. He looked thinner than before… he hadn't shaved properly either, if it wasn't for the throbbing pain in my side I might have mention my lack of appreciation for him not caring about his health or appearance.

I fell back onto the pillow a sigh of relief.

"Adira, I'm going to get Gaius so he can check over you. I'm also going to get Summer and Tristian" I glanced at my family and looked confused
"Wait their still in Camelot?" Gwen nodded

"After you put yourself between Dangers and Summer, they both vowed that they would see you back to your good health… they've been here two weeks and they are helping greatly with the rebuild of Camelot" Arthur agreed

"They know more about construction and rebuilding than I gave them credit for, they've helps in ways that even the knights are coming to respect their judgement... and their love for one another" I sighed, knowing there was little I could do…they thought I needed repaying, but much like Merlin every time he protected Arthur… he didn't do it for the reward, he did it because it is the right thing to do and that's all it should ever be.

Arthur squeezed my hand upon Gwaine walked through the door

"Sire we—" He saw me awake and smiled

"Adira ,thank god. I thought I'd have no one to flirt with" I smirked at him

"Oh I'm sure you'll have found someone Gwaine" He kissed my forehead before turning to Arthur

"We have a problem with the defences on the west Gates sire" Arthur nodded.

"That's my cue to leave… I will come and find you before the banquet" I nodded, realising this was 2 nights before their wedding date. Once Gwaine, Gwen and Arthur left I was alone with Merlin who was grinning from ear to ear.

"Adira I—" I cut off any apologize he wanted to say

"You stopped Morgana and saved Gwen, that's apology enough" He kissed me then, it wasn't passionate it was gentle, like he was scared I was going to break at any second but still it expressed all the love I needed to feel from him.

I had my head resting against Merlin's chest, reading a book feeling weak and in pain but surprisingly well considering how long I was unconscious, after a good lot of water and a nicely cooked meal I was reading and chatting to Merlin while he stroked my hair.

"My lady" summer said opening the door to the chambers. I tried to sit up but she rushed over and pushed me back against Merlin chest

"No don't move, don't fuss" I smiled at her

"Honestly I'm fine. How are you?" Merlin just shrugged at summer's questionable face.

"You're asking how I am? You've just been stabbed in the stomach and you're asking how I am?" I shrugged

"It's just a bruise, nothing serious…" Tristan grabbed summer and pulled her close

"She's fine Summer, she looks healthy, she's reading and she's healing, stop worrying" Summer shook her head

"She saved my life how can I not worry that she won't make it through this?" I shook my head, standing up despite her protests, Merlin was behind me to steady me silently if anything went wrong.

"Summer honestly I'm fine… I've always been a 'heal unconsciously' wake up and then be mostly fine and if not, Arthur, Gwen, the knights, Gaius and Merlin are around to make sure I'm caring for my health" I sat down on t2he bed with her and talked. Tristian expressed his gratitude with a large bunch of flowers and a bright smile… that was reward enough. Merlin was kind enough to pull Tristian aside to ask him if he had any plans for the future.

"—you're planning on going back to smuggling?" I asked her shocked

"What else can we do? Arthur's a good man and could probably get us jobs, but the city life isn't for us.. we need to be in the open air… doing hard labour work. It's what we know" I smiled and Merlin glanced at me at that moment

"You're thinking what I'm thinking?" Merlin smirked at me

"Eledor?" I nodded in agreement.

"Why don't you both go to Eledor, Hunrith could always do with some company and someone to help her start that business she wants to start. Besides it's the most open aired, hard labour village that will accept you with Welcome arms round about now" Summer seemed to think about but I could tell Tristan was sold already.

"It sounds like a plan, we will have to discuss it.. We shall be staying for the King's wedding and your own if that's permitted?" I smiled

"It's welcomed and appreciated" Summer nodded

"Well Gaius asked if I could help him get something for Arthur so I'd better get going" She hugged me gently but firmly and with that they left leaving me with the 5th bunch of flowers I'd received since my stabbing.

Throughout the following two days, knights visited me especially after I turned up at the banquet that evening on Merlin's arm with a smile. I received a further 6 bunches of flowers. Upon the Morning of Arthur's wedding I had gotten up especially early and dressed myself. Merlin had not even gone to bed that night because he was so busy with Helping Arthur. Gwen upon wearing her royal dress and being followed around by 2 servants, one of them being Mary she burst into my bedroom just as I put my final touches on.

"I've spent years dreaming of this day and now it's here and I'm freaking out Adira, I'm freaking out" I grabbed her flying arms and pinned them to her front

"Gwen, Gwen? Breath. Come on breath… deep breath in deep breath out. Now remember why you're marrying him… remember all the reasons you want to spend the rest of your life with him, all the things you want to prove to him, whether it be how much you think he's worth it or how much you love him!" Her face seemed to grow into a bright smile the more she thought about it.

"Thank you Adira, we've been trying to convince her of this for hours, she just wouldn't settle" I smiled at Mary who looked stunning in her best dress

"You look beautiful… I can't wait till yours and Leon's wedding" She smiled brightly

"Neither can I" Gwen seemed to calm down until the bells chimed in Arthur's arrival at the great hall. Gwen grabbed my arm in a panic. I laughed, linked her arm with mine and lead her slowly up to the hall.

"You're Dad would be proud" I said as I let go of her arms as we came to the doors to the hall, that brought a tear to her eye

"Thank you, for everything" I smiled

"Anything for Family now get in there and make it official and legal. I love you" She hugged me and whispered

"I love you too" She let me go and I rushed inside, nodded at the music plays to start the music.

Upon linking arms with Merlin and sparring a smile to the knights around me, Gwen walked in Gracefully I finally took in her beauty. Her absolutely stunning long hair, her beautiful royal purple dress. She was an angel and as she grabbed Arthur's hand I saw the purest form of love there was and a tear escaped, but unlike so many tears before these were happy tears. That's when I noticed even Merlin had dressed up in a royal red jacket, his scarf poking out, he looked breath-taking I could tell he'd noticed my starring so he tighten his grip on my hand and concentrated on Arthur Crowding Gwen as Queen.

"LONG LIVE THE QUEEN" Shouted Arthur and we all followed in suit. Everyone burst into applauds as the ceremony came to an end. Camelot now had a king and Queen and nothing has made me happier.

That was until the Banquet that night, the day was spent mostly smothering Arthur and Gwen in congratulations. But at the banquet, a dance floor was set up… which was rare even for a wedding. But Arthur had deemed to necessary. As the first songs played he pulled Gwen close to him and danced.

It was well into the evening when Merlin banged his spoon upon a chalice to get everyone attention, the music still played but as a soft noise not a deifying sound.

"First I would like to say congrualations to the King and Queen. Speaking as Arthur's long time servant and both of their friends, I can say with ease we are all secretly thinking 'It's about time'" That sent laughter through the room.

"A love so pure has never been in this kingdom since my arrival" Gwaine scoffed

"Apart from you and Adira" he glanced over at me

"You make a point, but my love does not have to stand the test of ruling this kingdom, nor the test of his royal pratness" despite his best efforts even Arthur was smiling.

"I've never been one for speeches, but I have had a tradition every single banquet I've attended and that is to sing with my beautiful Adira, so without further Adue…" The song started playing, I was still standing on the edge of the dancefloor completely unaware we were even singing today and when the tune started playing my heart leapt to my throat

"People say we shouldn't be together,

Too young to know about forever,

But I say they don't know

what they're tal-tal-talking about" He bowed and grabbed me hand

"Cuz this love is only getting stronger

So I don't wanna wait any longer

I just wanna tell the world

That you're mine girl" Summer and Tristan were mouthing along and I saw the bright smile on Gwen's face and Arthur's glint of pride in his eye as we both sung the chorus

"Oh, they don't know About the things we do

They don't know about the I love you's

But I bet you if they only knew

They would just be jealous of us" this song always spoke to me about the knights and the people of Camelot,

"They don't know about the up all nights

They don't know I've waited all my life

Just to fall in love it feels this right

Baby they don't know about us

They don't know about us" I spun in Merlin's arms until I stood in front of Arthur with his bride beside him. I grabbed his hands and started dancing as I sung the next verse

"Just one touch and I was believer,

Every kiss gets a little sweeter

It's getting better, it keep gets better all the time boy" Arthur joined in for the chorus much to everyone's surprise I couldn't help but enjoy it. Merlin started dancing with Gwen who laughed. When the bridge came Merlin tapped my shoulder and we swapped partners. The music stopped all dancing stopped as Merlin sung directly to me

"They don't know what we do best

That's between me and you

Our little secret

But I wanna tell 'em

Tell em' that you're mine" The song finished and I everyone stood and cheered. Merlin kissed my cheek

"You may not be the bride, but you're most beautiful person here" I smiled softly at him

"And you are as handsome as ever, especially in your new outfit" Another instrumental song played and we continued to dance and I was happy for once. I was finally starting to feel better, Merlin looked handsome and My brother was finally married.

Standing outside the doors to the grand hall, with Arthur beside me I was shaking with excitement and fear. It wasn't that I was having second thoughts, it's just the reaction of the people. Arthur and Gwen had addressed the people from the balcony above the town square, had a few feasts and Gwen was given a new makeover with new dresses and servants of her own. Of course for Gwen this prospect had caused a few disagreements with Arthur, especially when it was Merlin who was being forced to do whatever task he was asking to be done.

"Adira you look like you're about to run to Cenrid's lands and never look back" I shrugged

"The thought is crossing my mind" Arthur grabbed my hands

"Adira, I've been looking forward to this day probably more than I was my own wedding. The man who has defended, honoured, loved, cherished, supported and almost died for you is about the marry you Adira, you have nothing to be scared off"

I couldn't help but smile as he listened all things Merlin had done for me since we'd been together and he's right… it's Merlin, it's just Merlin. It's no one else. Gwen walked over, who I was surprised wasn't standing in the hall waiting for it to begin.

"I just had to come and wish you luck. You deserve today" She hugged me quickly and then rushed off in a tight (uncomfortable I know) blue dress into the hall.

Arthur grabbed my arm and linked it with him. I knew Gwen had told them to start and as I took a deep breath I looked down at my dress, a long flowing white dress, one that cut right across my cleavage and around my arms to put beautiful thin sleeves on my arms, a pattern of butterflies weaved into it. Across my waist was a cream coloured belt, one in which I knew Merlin would recognise.

The doors opened and inside the hall I saw everyone, Council men who were judging the event with false happiness, knights some who had their arms crossed and were either starring at me in awe or at Merlin in jealousy. The other knights, the ones who were in Arthur's merry band of knights were grinning at me, nodding in approval or so blown away by my dress they weren't even trying to hide their shock. My hair half up in a complicated plate and hugged my right shoulder and fell wavy to just beyond my hip.

But that was when I saw Merlin and everyone else, including Gaius, Gwen, Summer, Tristain who I smiled to in acknowledgement. I was hardly aware of my struggle to balance in my heels or Arthur leading me down the great length of the hall. I came to stand in front of Merlin who was smiling softly at me, he was so overwhelmed not even his cheeky grin could express it. Arthur let go of my arm and kissed my cheek then hugged me. He then to almost everyone's surprise he shook Merlin's hand and spoke loud

"Take good care of her Merlin" Merlin smiled

"It's a promise" Arthur smiled and then joined Gwen who grabbed his hand in eager excitement. I had asked that Merlin not be given a title, nor a crown. But of course Arthur had seen it fit to give him one.

"We are gathered here today to join Princess Adira Pendragon and Royal adviser Merlin" Merlin looked at the vicar in surprise and turned to Arthur in surprise, he knew he could not make a scene, but Arthur's smile spoke a thousand words and it was the best title he could be given.

"In holy matrimony. Before we begin is there anyone here who object to these two to be wed?" I knew there were but no one with the courage to speak up and I smiled in Thanks to Percival for stopping Gwaine playing a prank at my wedding.

"I've come to understand you wish to make your own vows?" I nodded and so he stepped back to let us have the floor. Ladies first so I looked at Merlin and spoke only to him.

"You have been my best friend since the day you arrived at Camelot, all romance aside you were a rock in my life, you were there for me when no one else was, I needed a normal shoulder to cry on. Arthur spoke a list of things you have done for me since the day we met, I shall put them back to you. Merlin I promise to love, hold, cherish, defend, honour, support and give my life for you. Marriage may tell everyone else I love you, but I'll be telling you I love you with every day for the rest of our lives together"

Merlin squeezed my hands that held his and wiped a quick tear. I let go of his hand and pulled at his collar, to anyone who didn't know we had the rings this would look odd, but as I pulled the necklace over his head and showed the rings, something even Arthur was confused about at first and slide it onto his finger

"Whether you're defending those you love or screaming at me about something stupid" This caused a few laughs amongst the crowd "I will always find a reason to smile. I will always do all those things you just listed. You're the most strong headed, beautiful, heart wrenching, frustrating, lovable women I've ever had the pleasure of meeting, Though the money does help" This sent another way of laughter through the guests at our wedding.

"The money helps but it does not matter, you could be the Queen of Camelot, No offence my lady" Bowing his head at Gwen "Or a servant in the kitchens… again sorry my lady" Gwen was crying of laughter, that's when I saw it. Everyone I loved was happy… to see me so happy. Some were crying, some were grinning from ear to ear and nothing settled my stomach more

"It's your heart that I love… you're ability to defend those who would scream abuse at you, you're ability to look at someone and know their heart. But it's your ability to love that impresses me the most. When you love you love unconditionally and I shall spent the rest of my life cherishing that ability and show you, you are just as loved by me"

My eyes were filled with tears as I smiled at him, he has hold me a thousand times that he loves me, but to hear him it in front of so many after all we've been through it truly warmed my heart. That's when merlin reached for the necklace with my ring on it and tugged at it softly knowing I'd loosened it enough not to hurt, he pulled the ring off the ring and tying the string softly on his wrist before putting the ring on my finger.

"I now pronounce you man and Wife, you may kiss the bride" Merlin leaned in and whispered in my head

"I've been waiting for this kiss in public for 6 years" I smiled at him and spoke aloud

"What you waiting for?" He smirked with his cheeky grin before pulled him close and kissing my softly. We pulled apart after a few moments and still he grabbed my hand, slowly intertwining our now married hands and raised it above our heads which set the crowd into a frenzy of applauds. Upon the sound of Arthur's call many of the guest took this as their excuse to leave.

Arthur was the first one hugging me.

"I know I said it before but you look breath taking" I smiled

"Thanks Arthur… we are both married" Arthur squeezed me

"I know… it's the happiest Camelot's been in years" When Gwen turned away from Merlin and flung me into a hug I laughed hugging her tightly back.

"beautiful, so very beautiful" She whispered to me.

"Thank you.. were the vows too much?" She shook her head

"Merlin managed to get the audience laughing of joy and happiness and you just warmed our hearts. Incredible" Gwen pulled away and I caught an ear of Merlin's and Arthur's convocation
"—I get why you had to but did you have to make it so public? Now I have to give you advice cuz it's my job. Do you know how hard it is to give you advice?" Arthur shrugged

"About as hard as it is for you to turn up on time in the mornings" Gwen and I who were arm in arm giggled.

"Fine whatever, but I still want that day off" It was then that I noticed the convosations going on around me. The hall was empty now, oddly hollow apart from the people I knew would stick by me. My family. Gwaine, Percival, Elyan, Leon, Gaius, Summer, Tristan, Mary and Henry all stood talking amongst themselves. Upon catching Gwaine's eye I smirked and he held out his arms. I squeezed Gwen quickly before letting her go and I rushed over to him. Once in his arms he lifted my high and I giggled as he spun me around.

"Beautiful" He whispered. Then to even my surprise Percival grabbed one of my arms and spun me around. He lifted me up and started carrying me bridal style.

"congratulations" I smiled at him, Leon took me from Percival's arms but did not let my feet touch the floor

"It's like the ground is sacred, the way you lift me up" Leon laughed

"Everything about you is sacred Adira" I smiled softly at him kissing his cheek. Without even looking at Merlin I knew he was coming towards us.

"You're next Leon, you're next" He smiled at me

"As long as you don't pick me up I'll be fine" I laughed at that as Merlin's hand landed on my back, I neither jumped nor fought his touch. Leon smiled as he slowly passed me into Merlin's arm. I knew every time Merlin held me people were surprised at his strength, so to carry me in his arms with one of the heaviest dresses I've ever worn.

"Why does it surprise you that I can carry my beautiful wife?" Just hearing those words

"It's not that you can carry me my dear husband" I notice the smile grow on his face "But because this dress is like double my weight" Merlin laughed

"Well then, lets get you into something you can breathe in. I know how much you hate these clingy dresses" As I was set on my feet, Elyan pulled me into a hug

"Congratulations, I won't pick you up but every happiness" I smiled softly at him in thanks and kissed his cheek. To my surprise Gaius pulled me into a hug and lead me out the room, the rest of my family talking idoly as Gaius just hugged me. If Father was here this is how I would hope he would have accepted Merlin, but knowing he was gone I could imagine him and Mother standing side by side. Mother smiling of acceptance holding her heart and Father curses which caused Mother to scream at him.

During the evening, Arthur and Gwen sat at the head table along with Merlin and myself, I could tell Merlin felt uncomfortable sitting instead of serving despite his complaints about his feet hurting after each feast. What I hadn't expected was for Gwaine to stand up and tab his cup to get everyone's attention.

"I know you're probably thinking 'Oh god what drunken thing can he say now?'" which did sent a few nods and shrugs of approval.

"But myself and the knights have a little surprise for you. We all said we'd stand up and say our favourite things about this couple, including our favourite 'Merdira' Moment as we're calling them. So my favourite things about this couple? In all seriousness their friendship… despite their commitment to each other and this kingdom they still find time to be supportive as I'm sure many of you are aware. But also their humour in the worst of situations, although I've never mentioned this to them before and despite my own 'act' of 'ignorance' in near death experience I would not have made it through half of them if not for these 2 right here" Merlin grabbed my hand and squeezed it

"My Best memory of these 2 is the first day I came to Camelot as nothing more than a common man who was injured in a pub fight. Laying on the bed talking aimlessly to Merlin when Adira comes in and defends Merlin's ability to be a servant to Arthur, But it's was when Merlin complained of back pains and Adira gave him a shoulder rub to ease the pain. The way they touched one another, the way they smile softly everytime they are with each other. That's what I love about you two, may many happy years and many children befall you" He raised his glass and everyone clapped and cheered. Leon stood and spoke then

"Adira Pendragon, a girl I've known since she was young. Even She had the ability to see the good in the worst situations, also an ability to be so blindingly loyal to people who didn't seem to deserve it. But her ability to listen is what spoke to me most. I've been through some tough times and although I cared for her as a young girl she always listened, at age 7 she saw me one morning and without so much of a reason she just hugged my waist and said "It's okay'" I smirked as I wiped away the tears.

"I'll admit it took me a while to become used to Merlin, not only because he insisted on going almost everywhere Arthur does but because he seemed to protect Arthur better than we did, It was infuriating. But I remember having woken early to hear him and Lancelot talking

"—Arthur comes first" Lancelot said to Merlin, obviously talking about the mission we were about to undertake. But that's when Merlin said

"He may be king Lance, but his life is no more important than any of yours and if I decided it was and only protected him, his respect for me would decrease a great deal" Arthur glanced at Merlin, surprised as Merlin always spoke as if his life was more important than anyone else's because he was king.

"But that isn't what I respected most about him… it was the fact that when Lance argued with him about him needing to put Arthur first, merlin shook his head at Lance and said

"Every single one of you is my family Lancelot, you know I could not live without your friendship, Percival's kind words, Leon's kind smiles and silent understandings, Gwaine's humour, even if it if drive us all a little mad. Elyan, just being himself. Arthur's bickering and friendship. He may never know this but he is one of few people I would not only give my life but my soul for" Arthur wasn't looking at Merlin now, he was trying to remain composed but Leon's story continued so not much attention was paid to Arthur's reaction

"And Adira?' Lance asked Merlin after a moment of silence to process those words

"I would say a thousand words Lance, I could use every word in the world's languages and my heart could not even to begin to express what she means to me' When I heard Merlin say that I knew that they were not only head over heels in love with each other, but they had indeed formed a family. Merlin had become what most knights in this kingdom wished to be, the love of her life" I blew him a kiss and he grinned

"But my favourite memory of the couple has to be one of their more silly moments. We were by a streaming river. We'd set up Camp on the way home, Arthur was injured and resting, most of us so worn out we should be doing the same thing. Merlin most of all, having been locked in a cell for weeks and a deep scratch on his arm. The sun was bright as the stream was rushing like a beautiful beginning to a story.

Adira who had been deeply affected by the adventure before that she stood staring at the stream deep in thought. I was about to walk over when I noticed Merlin walking over to her. As soon as his hand took hers I could see her whole body change, she relaxed and rested against him. Although I could not hear what was being said she suddenly burst into a fit of giggles… a sound that is a delight to everybody's ears. That's when Merlin grabbed her legs and swung her causally over his shoulder. She squealed and screamed

"LET ME GO" She screamed in protest.

"Not until you stop mopping around" Adira sighed then

"Fine but you'd better be ready for angry Adira" Merlin grinned wickedly at her as he set her back on the ground. I do not know what else was said as tone of voice was too low but Adira grinned and they shared a brief kiss' The reason I told this story is because that's the sort of thing we all want isn't it? Someone who can come up to us after a horrible day, take our hand, make us laugh and show us we are loved. All my best to the happy couple" I couldn't believe these stories, to think that they were more observant than they should have been unnerved me.

Elyan stood next

"Congratulations to you both, The knight and I are having running bet on you guys on all sorts of things, our favourite is the one with the tally as to how many life threating situations you can get into. So far Merlin's on 43 and Adira on 39 and the 'together' one is at '78'" This was a surprise to me, but not as much as it should have been. It was the fact that they were actually keeping count and that was only the situations they knew about…

"Merlin is a good man, in fact one of the best I know and one of the only servants who would lay down his life for knights and the only servant I know who has the respect of the knights for them to actually risk their lives to save his. Adira is the kindest women and the best of friends I could ask for in a women and more importantly a princess. My favourite moments of them over the years has to be the moments they come together after being separated after a long period of time.

Moments when one has left Camelot and the other has stayed behind, the moments when one is endangered and the other is going in rescue or my favourite the moments after a battle they go in search of each other. The hugs and kisses are beautiful but what always caught my eye was the body language… it was like relaxing after coming home after a long day… that stress that's been affect your whole body since you left in the morning slips away into the comfort of what you know.

The way they communicate in silence and it's not just the comfort with each other but tactical moves side by side in battle, moments when silences is key but messages need to be relayed… it truly is a beautiful thing" For the third time everyone clapped… I don't think I could take much more of this and so Percival stood.

"Adira, not only the most beautiful, enchanting, friendly princess the world will ever know but also the most understanding, I could never tell any other women what I have told her and know that the secrets I tell will not be revealed. That same thing goes to Merlin… I could tell him anything, especially those things I fear the other knights might judge me for and he will give the best advice I've ever known. He makes my issues seem so small yet so significant too. Together they are perfect, magical" I glanced at Merlin who was bright in a smile at his choice of words

"Although I see them everyday, it's the moments they don't see me and think they are alone in the world that I love. The moments when Merlin will sneak up and wrap his arms around her, the moments when she will tap his shoulder and as he turned around kissed his cheek. Their anger at each other for not considering their health and safety during the most domestic situations. But my favourite thing about them as a couple is when they are dancing and singing, when they're so caught up in each other in a crowd that they are alone in this world… it's beautiful something I wish I could one day have. Congratulations guys anything you need you let us know" I nodded as Merlin raised his glass. With another round of applause and some more music the evening continued in perfect theme. It was half an hour later when Gaius tapped everyone to quiet

"The knight's speeches were beautiful, but I wanted to share my own thoughts, if I may?" All four of us at the head table nodded for him to continued

"Adira Pendragon, a girl of many talents… none so much as to drive an old man to his death and Merlin so close behind her in that respect" Merlin waited until Gaius had finished before excusing himself to the toilet, I was just happy idly chatting when the soft background music stopped and a tune I love started playing.

I clung to my heart as Merlin came out dressed in yet another handsome jacket

"Look's like we've made it,

Look how far we've come my baby" We truly had come far, further than any couple should have to go.

"We' might have took the long way

We knew we'd get there someday" 6 years count as long? Arthur who was sat on my right grabbed my hand gently, even he was touched by this performance. This was the song that was sung at our parent's wedding. I had told Merlin this in passing and upon rehearing the song I fell in love with it and linked it directly to Merlin and I and our relationship.

"They said 'I bet they'll never make it'

But look at us holding on

We're still together, still going strong" To my even bigger surprise the knights all stood and sung the harmony.

"You're still the one I run to,

The one that I belong to

You're still the one I want for life" Merlin came over to the table and grabbed my hand

"You're still the one that I love

The only one I dream of

You're still the one I kiss goodnight" Merlin pulled my arm gently making me stand up and he lead me onto the dance floor as the second verse started

"Ain't nothing better

We beat the odds together

I'm glad we didn't listen

Look at what we would be missing

They said 'I bet they'll never make it'

But just look at us holding on

We're still together still going strong" The chorus repeated itself and despite the depth of my love for Merlin, just when I thought the hole within my soul had been filled so completely with his love, he suddenly punches a hole through the wall and makes me love him twice as much.

Merlin continued to spin my around even as the crowd cheered, I felt so head over heels I felt dizzy. Then suddenly my magic pushed at the back of my mind, Merlin knew it was coming and swung me up so I was in his arms. To everyone else it just looked like a romantic gesture as I closed my eyes and waited for the vision to push. The images of war, bloodshed and heartache I saw dampened my mood extremely. Tears began to flow before I could control them. Arthur was the only one who noticed this but the party had only been going on for a couple hours.

"Ladies and Gentlemen it would appear the bride is so tired she has fallen asleep in her husband's arm… although this banquet will continue I suggest we clap them out and let them get some sleep" There was a quick around of applause and I heard Merlin say to everything

"Thank you sire, Thank you all for coming and have a couple rounds on Arthur" There was a round laughter when I felt Merlin weave his way through the crowd and out into the open air. I could hear the music and the wedding still a muffled sound in the background.

"Adira love…" He didn't need to say anything I just clung to him.

"I thought it was over, I thought we could rest… be happily married" Merlin laughed whispering in my ear

"It doesn't take a life of peace to be happy Adira, we know that. You know that better than anyone else. It's not about how long you can keep the normal days it's about making every normal day special and count" I shook my head

"I understand that… but seeing the future, knowing how much bloodshed—" Merlin cut me off

"There is always going to be bloodshed, until we know Morgana is completely dead… we will always have some form of bloodshed waiting at the door of every new dawn… but learning to accept that she won't change and you can't save every single life then you'll be okay, we'll be fine, this kingdom Adira, despite all it's faults and flaws… We. Will. Be. Fine" He smiled up at him

"Fine" It was meant to be taken as a strop but a glance at Merlin and I was giggling. He still held me in his arms but now he sat on the warm summers evening on the steps out towards the courtyard.

The following Morning was meant to be spent cuddling up with my new husband, but instead I found myself in one of the most luxurious items this kingdom owned, in one of the most uncomfortable, barely sit-in-able dresses waving my hand at the people of the kingdom, we travelled all through the kingdom's lands in this golden Carriage with Merlin sitting beside me waving at people, Gwen and Arthur opposite us waving at the people and looking as royal as the possibly could.

We ate while we rode with half of Camelot's Knights and guards with us. Gwaine sat beside the driver Leon, who was busy trying to block out Gwaine's continuous babblings. There were a few moment when we had to stop and it wasn't until well into the afternoon that we had gone way out of the way as the tour had said. Merlin had gone strangely silent and then I realised just where we were.

"Merlin—"

"Ha, come on Sire pay up" Arthur sighed

"You couldn't have remained oblivious for a few more minutes?" I shrugged

"Not in my nature… you bet against me?" He shrugged

"I was hoping you'd be so over the moon happy you'd be unobservant" I shook my head

"Missed details get me, you and this whole kingdom killed" Gwen smiled and nodded

"She's been trained to see deception and enemies from miles away and you're surprised she found out about your little surprise mere minute before? I'm surprised she didn't know at the wedding" I swung around to Merlin

"How long have you been planning this Merlin?" He shrugged

"Ever since I realised that it was required of all 'Royal' to take this carriage out" Eledor came into view just at the end of our sight, my grin grew wider

"Surely this should be your surprise not mine?" Merlin shook his head

"She's your mother now too remember Adira, get ready for the Grandkid's talk" I raised my eyebrow at him

"She'd really ask so soon after—" He laughed

"She's going to make some subtle hint the second I hug her, then talk to you about the weather and be beautifully oblivious to the topic when you're concerned then it'll be dropped until she's left alone with you and she'll ask your opinions on it. It's been her way since every single couple in this town has Wed. She's like the mother hen of Eledor" Gwen responded

"She's only looking out for those around her, don't see what's so bad about that?" I shook my head

"There is absolutely nothing wrong with that Gwen, what I have a problem with Camelot was taken from us, we've seen a beautiful wedding, killed someone and married all in 2 weeks and my mother adding another stress isn't what I need right now… besides As much as our Mother deserves Grandchildren it should be up to us whether we wish to conceive" Eledor was now close

"Lucky for us" Arthur said "We don't have to worry about that" I laughed

"You obviously don't know Hunrith well, if she thinks just because you're not her biological son she won't treat you like it" We rode into town to meet a hearty cheer.

Much has changed in Eledor the town although the same size was beaming with life, crops, laughter and protection… a promise Arthur fulfilled to Merlin privately years ago, one he has not let Merlin down on yet.

Scanning the familiar faces I came across Hunrith Arm in arm with a strongly build man, a guard from Camelot it would seem. He seemed nice enough… a little protective of her, I could tell that they'd been seeing each other a while, but what surprised me most was her glow, she looked almost… Pregnant.

Percival was right at the door to the carriage to help me out

"Thank you Percival" I smiled as my feet touched solid grown, my hand still gripping his strong one.

"Anything for such beauty" I winked at him, I knew this was a royal moment but I was always aware of Merlin's hand on the small of my back. I didn't like the way the people were starring at Merlin, like he'd betrayed his own town.