Disclaimer: I do not own Merlin or any of its characters. I only own the ones that I've made up myself.
A/N- Ah this chapter is a bit longer. Enjoy!
- x Milou Lilly
Chapter 53: The Sword in the Stone part 1
"Merlin, I don't need help with getting dressed. You're not my servant," Lyanna said with a placid voice.
He flashed her a lopsided grin. "I'm well aware of that. There is nothing wrong with a man who tries to help his beloved wife with getting dressed," he retorted amused while he clumsily helped her with the laces of the corset. "I'm still not quite used to how this works. Truth be told this is actually the first time I'm trying this."
Lyanna whirled around so that she was facing him. "Well, I'm glad to hear you've had no experience with corsets before, Merlin," she joked, smiling brightly at him while he blushed a little. "I'm perfectly capable of doing this on my own."
"Are you sure about that?" he wondered hesitantly. "I don't think you can reach the laces yourself."
She frowned slightly. "Then you do it," she said. "You're the most powerful warlock this world has ever known I'm sure you can help me in my corset."
He let out a soft laugh before he gently turned her around by placing his hands on her shoulders. His long fingers then began to fumble with the laces of her corset again and he gave it a pull.
"Merlin!" Lyanna yelped. "Not so tight! I'm very fond of breathing."
"I'm so sorry," he apologized, sounding sincere. "I'll try it again." He released the grip on the corset and Lyanna immediately inhaled, glad to be able to breath again. "How is this?"
"Perfect," Lyanna replied cheerfully.
That seemed to bring him some relief and he quickly tied the laces together before he would mix it up again. "There, all done," he said, placing a kiss on her bare shoulder. "I thought you hated corsets."
Lyanna turned around once more and placed her hands on his chest. "Thank you. I do hate corsets, but as long as I can breathe in them properly they're not so bad. You men are so lucky that you never have to wear those things," she said, chuckling.
He smiled brightly. "I'm glad indeed. I can't imagine the torture you women have to go through," he responded. "Not just about corsets and dresses, in which you look absolutely beautiful by the way, but also by many other things. Women endure much more pain than men and they never once complain."
"You're actually the first man who said that," she replied in awe. Even after all this time that they've been together he was still able to amaze her. He was like a puzzle she never got tired of trying to solve. "I'm glad you think that."
Merlin's arms went around her waist. "Of course I think that. I have great admiration for you. Mainly because you're a great physician, a skilled knight of Camelot, a princess the people absolutely adore and a devoted wife. There's nothing I don't like and admire about you, Lyanna. You know that don't you?" he asked while she placed her hand on his right cheek and he leaned into it.
She gave him the warmest smile that she could muster. "I know well enough how much you care for me, Merlin. You tell me this pretty often for which I am pretty grateful. I couldn't have asked for a better husband because you're everything I've ever dreamed of."
"You dreamed of marrying a servant?" he joked.
"Not specifically a servant no, because such things aren't relevant. I fell in love with the person that you are and don't care about status. You're the love of my life and I'm forever thankful to have you and to have earned your love in return," Lyanna replied, content.
Merlin grinned while he briefly kissed her lips. "I've always loved you, Lyanna."
As they parted again Lyanna sighed. "Do you think that we will ever become parents?" she asked seriously, her mood a bit more grim. Ever since they had lost Rowan about four months ago Lyanna had often wondered if they would ever have children after all.
"Lyanna, I would love to have children with you one day, and I'm convinced that we'll get them eventually when the time is right. Don't worry about it. You're actually afraid that I will leave you if you can't conceive after your miscarriage, am I right?"
"Of course that's what worries me," Lyanna admitted with tears in her eyes. "I know that you want children and if I can't give them to you then why should you stay with me?"
He paused for a moment. "Lyanna, I wouldn't love you any less if you weren't able to conceive. I don't need children to be happy, because I'm already the happiest man in this world with you at my side. I would never leave you for something like that. I love you far too much to even consider something so dreadful. Without you in my life I'm not complete," he clarified.
Lyanna swallowed the sob away. "Are you sure?"
"Absolutely," Merlin confirmed. "There is no need to cry, love. I'm not going anywhere. I plan to stay with you for as long as you'll have me."
She cracked a smile. "Forever then," she replied.
He chuckled deeply. "Forever and ever," he promised before he kissed her again. This time Lyanna quickly answered it with a hunger for him. She felt kind of giddy from what Merlin had just proclaimed to her. As soon as their tongues met her mind went foggy and she forgot about everything else. All that mattered in that moment was how perfectly their lips felt together. They parted several minutes later and were both panting. "Unfortunately I need to help your brother prepare for the feast."
Lyanna growled. "I don't like feasts. I just wanted a quiet evening with you."
"I know that, love," he replied sweetly, kissing her cheek. "The Feast of Beltane is a special occasion which will probably last all evening. Why don't you and I stay in tomorrow evening then? We could practice our magic together. You just have to make it through this feast."
"I'd love to practice some magic with you. It has been a while since we last done that because we've both been so busy lately. Alright, I just hope this feast will finish swiftly," she replied, smirking.
"Well, since you're the Princess you can retire early," he responded wisely.
"I could do that, but I find that unfair to you because you have to stay at Arthur's side. What's the point of sitting in my chambers by myself while you're constantly refilling Arthur's goblet?" she said and Merlin chuckled again.
"You don't have to stay to support me. I can manage Arthur on my own," he retorted but Lyanna glanced at him, which caused him to laugh. "Okay, I do prefer to have you nearby. But I really need to go now. I'll come here as soon as Arthur releases me from my duties tonight, alright?"
Lyanna smiled at him. "Yes please," she said lovesick, already looking forward to being reunited with him again even though he was still here. "I do hope Arthur will treat you nicely tonight for once."
He shrugged a little. "I doubt it, but you know your brother better than I do. Anyway I've got to dash now. I'll see you later, Lyanna Ambrosius," he said adoringly. Lyanna felt butterflies doing summersaults in her stomach just to hear him say that. She knew how fortunate she was to have a husband who loved her so much.
Lyanna brought their mouths together one last time to kiss him farewell. "Goodbye, husband of mine," she said adoringly as Merlin kissed her on her forehead. With that they parted and he swiftly left her chambers through the secluded door.
Lyanna stared out of the window for an unknown moment while she was lost in her own thoughts. She had no idea how much time had passed before she left her bedroom through the main door. Knowing that she was much to early to go to the feast already she went to the physician chambers first where Gaius had already prepared a cup of tea for her.
She sat down there with him for a moment while they just chatted together. Even Gaius at his old age wasn't too fond about feasts anymore so they both weren't really looking forward to it. After they had finished two cups of tea about thirty minutes had past and they decided to leave.
As they entered the council dinning chamber they found out that many guests had already arrived. All the knights were already seated at the table. Lyanna exchanged one final look with Gaius before she sat down at her usual seat at the head of the table, where her brother would soon join her.
While Lyanna's goblet was being filled by a servant girl she watched how Merlin was already running around carrying plates of food to bring some to the knights since he was serving tonight.
Minutes later Arthur finally entered the large hall which was already bustling with conversation. He passed Gaius and asked the physician a few questions. After that he turned around and took his place next to Lyanna just as Merlin arrived with a heaping plate of food.
"Ah! My favorite. Herb crusted caper," Arthur cried out in relief to see that his favorite dinner was being served.
"Easy now, we don't want any more holes in that belt," Merlin joked amused.
Lyanna smirked at that information while Percival spat out his wine as he sniggered. Arthur laughed forcefully, clearly not amused with this. Merlin meanwhile filled Gaius his glass with wine. After that Arthur motioned for Merlin to come over.
Merlin stepped close and leaned it and Arthur grabbed the front of his shirt. "It's a good job you don't have anything of any actual importance to keep secret, isn't it?" Arthur sneered and let go off his servant again, causing his neckerchief to hit his face. Merlin immediately looked at Lyanna for brief moment who gave him an encouraging smile before he wandered off again.
"How many holes did Merlin add in your belt then?" Lyanna then asked, trying to contain her laughter.
Arthur glared at his sister. "None. He did no such thing," he protested.
Lyanna grinned. "You're a terrible liar, Arthur Pendragon. Gaining a few pounds isn't that bad. It happens to a lot of people," she replied. "Besides you're still fighting fit so there is nothing to worry about."
"So did you gain a few pounds then?" he then asked, causing Lyanna to frown at him. "Just kidding, Lee. I know its inappropriate and dangerous to joke about a woman's weight, especially concerning you."
"Why am I dangerous then?" Lyanna asked him curiously.
"Because you'll make sure that I'll regret it for the rest of my life," he said, grinning.
"Heck yeah, I would. Just keep that in the back of your mind, Arthur," she warned him, even though she was smiling. Arthur saw it and let out a soft laugh.
Their conversation came to an end after that and there fell a silence between them as they listened to the chatter of everyone around. Lyanna ate some roasted lamb in the meantime while she pretended to listen to the conversations of the knights who were sitting near them.
Instead she noticed that her brother had a rather grim look on his face and she wasn't the only one who had seen that. "You all right?" a concerned Merlin asked as he stood beside them.
"No one likes to be called fat, Merlin," Arthur dryly responded, taking a sip from the wine.
"Sorry," Merlin said, looking at Lyanna for another moment. Arthur looked around, continuing to mope. "It's Gwen isn't it?"
Arthur stared straight ahead of him. "I look for her in the room; she's not there... Then I remember why," he responded.
Lyanna placed her hand over his. "You'll find her again, Arthur. It's not too late," she tried to reassure him. She wanted to tell him that she knew where Gwen was currently staying, but their moment was interrupted when the warning bells chimed.
Gwaine entered the dining hall. "Sire! Milady! We're under attack! They're within the city walls!" he cried out.
Arthur took off his cloak. "Merlin, get everyone to the inner chamber," he ordered.
"Yes, Sire. Everyone follow me!" Merlin shouted.
Arthur then turned at Lyanna and cupped her cheeks. "I know you want to fight, but you need to go with Merlin. Gaius could use all the help that he can get right now. Your knowledge as a physician is required, Lee. And this way I know you're safe. Please..."
Lyanna hesitated for a moment before she kissed Arthur's cheek. "Just be careful, Arthur," she said.
"Aren't I always?" he responded, causing Lyanna to crack a small smile while he turned around and jumped over the table to grab a sword. "Gwaine, secure the armoury! Percival, with me!"
Lyanna swiftly ran out of the dinning hall and through several corridors while the other people went in the opposite direction. She knew that she was needed, but she couldn't tend injured people in a rather tight dress. Lyanna went into one of the rooms where the servants usually did the laundry. She found a pile of her own clothes there and grabbed a freshly washed and clean trouser and tunic, which was something she usually wore when she went out for a hunt or a patrol.
She managed to take off her dress and her corset by herself and put on the clean clothes which were much more comfortable. She weaved her hair into a simple braid so that it wouldn't get in her face. She put a greyish vest over her blue tunic. It surprised to see that two daggers and her sword were lying on a table here. She was unsure as to how her weapons had ended up here, but there was no time to find the truth behind that. Instead she did the sword-belt around her waist and tugged her daggers into her boots before she hurried out of the room.
It only took her a few minutes until she reached the inner chamber where Merlin and Gaius were already busy with tending some of the wounded. Merlin looked up as Lyanna approached in such a hurry. "Can't help people in my corset now can I?" she asked him.
He shook his head and smiled faintly. "I already figured you were putting on something else. If you hadn't gotten here within a few more minutes I would've gone looking for you myself, but I'm glad that you're here," he replied.
Lyanna returned the smile, which faded as snow on a sunny day as she began to tend the first injured citizen. Her attention was quickly occupied by looking after as many people as she could as she tried to help them in the best way that she could. Some of the people were brought in with burning wounds which suggested Lyanna that there had been an incident involving fire outside. She didn't want to think about how bad the battle was up there.
"The lower town is lost. It's only a matter of time before they reach the citadel," Merlin informed frantically behind her.
"But how did this happen? How did they get in without being detected?" Gaius wondered.
Merlin paused. "We knew Agravaine was planning something."
Agravaine. Of course her untrustworthy uncle was behind this since he had been conspiring with Morgana all this time. He had stayed there close at Arthur's side for almost a year so that the King wouldn't be suspicious of him. His plan had worked because hardly no one had known about his true intentions. Only Merlin, Gaius and Lyanna had figured it out, but they hadn't been able to do something about it.
Merlin took off. "Merlin! Where are you going?" Lyanna asked, not liking the idea of Merlin running around the castle with Morgana and Agravaine being out there.
"I've got to find Arthur!" he shouted in return. "I'll come back!"
Lyanna cursed under her breath. This entire situation was utter chaos and she feared for everyone that she cared about. This wasn't how this feast was suppose to turn out. Lyanna picked up a few bottles and clean bandages while a new patient was being brought in. By only looking at the injuries she had seen so far so could tell the battle up there was harsh. She should've known that Morgana wouldn't show any mercy. Her sympathy towards other people had completely vanished.
After having helped about eight people Lyanna completely lost track of it. Her mind was a rather blur and all that she thought about was helping these people. Luckily for her none of these people had very serious or fatal injuries because she hated to be the one to tell someone that they weren't going to make it. In fact Lyanna doubted if she would ever be able to tell someone such grave news.
She went through a lot of bandages and salves with tended the wounded. While she finished tying a clean bandage around a knight's shoulder Merlin barged into the inner chamber supporting Arthur on his shoulder. He placed the the injured King on the cot. Arthur flinched as Lyanna observed his ribcage and came to the conclusion that he had broken a few ribs.
"We can bind the ribcage, but even that would run the risk of puncturing a lung," Gaius informed him.
"Do whatever it takes, Gaius, just as long as I can swing a sword," Arthur stubbornly responded.
At that moment Gwaine and Percival barred the door. "How do we stand?" Lyanna asked them as she, Merlin and Gaius made their way over to them.
"The citadel is overrun," Percival informed them. "We can't hold out much longer."
Lyanna crossed her arms. "How long before they reach us here?"
"Minutes at best, Milady," Percival responded, which didn't gave her much hope. The entire situation was looking rather grim for all of them.
"We can't wait for Arthur," Merlin said. "If they find him, they'll kill him."
"We must get him to safety while we still can," Percival suggested.
"Arthur would never abandon his people. He'd rather die," Gwaine protested, knowing how loyal Arthur was to his people.
There fell a brief silence. "Barricade the doors. Give us as much time as you can," Merlin said to the knights while he, Gaius and Lyanna stepped aside. "We need to get Arthur out of here whether he likes it or not. Give him some kind of potion, something to knock him out?"
"We don't have anything strong enough to do that there. There may be some in the physician chambers, but with the Southrons controlling the palace we can't reach that," Lyanna responded.
That didn't give Merlin any hope. "There must be something."
"I'm sorry, Merlin. Maybe there's something you can do," Gaius suggested. "Arthur won't go willingly. What if he was to lose his will?"
"Are you suggesting magic?" Merlin asked with a lower voice.
"Will you do it?" Lyanna queried.
He looked at her. "I can try."
Merlin stepped behind Arthur while Lyanna and Gaius stepped in front of him as Arthur leaned back against the table. "I'm sorry, Arthur, but this is going to hurt," Lyanna informed him casually.
"Just get on with it!" he shouted, growing tired of the constant pain.
Gaius pressed his hands into Arthur's wound and the King growled in pain. At that moment Merlin used a quick spell and his eyes glowed for a second. Arthur started to stir weirdly, causing Lyanna to frown at him.
Gwaine and Percival rushed up in the meantime. "We need to leave now, Sire!" Merlin said to Arthur.
Merlin looked at Lyanna and Gaius as they awaited the King's reaction. "Of course," Arthur simply responded as if it wasn't that big of a deal. He stood up, slightly unsteady and they all exchanged curious looks with each other. They hadn't expected that Arthur would give up without a fight. Merlin gave Gaius a shrug.
"Then let's go," Percival said. He slung Arthur's arm around his neck and helped him out. "We'll use the postern gate."
Lyanna helped Merlin with gathering Arthur's things. Gwaine meanwhile stopped as he walked out and offered his hand to Percival. "I'll keep them off your back as long as I can," Gwaine said.
Percival looked surprised for a moment, but then grabbed Gwaine's outstretched arm and exited with Arthur.
Gaius just stood there. "Gather your things, Gaius," Merlin said to him.
"You go, Merlin, and take Lyanna with you. I'll just slow you down," Gaius protested.
Lyanna spun around. "That is not an option. We can't leave you here," she stubbornly objected.
"You two know its for the best," Gaius reasoned with them.
"No, if you stay here -" Merlin said.
"No time to argue. I'm sorry," Gwaine butted in as he shoved Merlin and Lyanna towards the exit.
"No! I can't leave you," Lyanna heavily protested as tears streamed down her cheeks. She was about to run back to Gaius, but Merlin had his arms around her waist and pulled her back and ignored her struggling. He knew that if she returned to them there was a possibility that she would die here, he couldn't let that happen.
"Look after our King," was the last Gaius said before Merlin pulled Lyanna along with him.
"Merlin, let me go!" Lyanna shouted while she tried to free herself from Merlin's grip. "I have to go back!"
"I can't let you, Lyanna," Merlin clarified. "You could die out there!"
"I don't care about that!" Lyanna said through gritted teeth. "They need all the help that they can get."
"No," Merlin firmly responded while he forced her to look at him. "They've given us a chance to get away and we need to take it because we might be their only chance. We need to get Arthur out of Camelot and more importantly I need you safe." Before Lyanna could argue further he kissed her fiercely which took her rather off guard. It was a rather brief kiss but as they parted Lyanna seemed to have given up her fight. "I would never forgive myself if anything happened to you, Lyanna."
She gazed up into his sea blue eyes. "I know that, Merlin. I would be the same had something happened to you."
"So you'll come with me?" he asked softly. Lyanna cracked a small smile while she took his hand in hers. "Thank you." They immediately turned around and began to run through the corridors together. They quickly reached the postern gate where they caught up with Percival and Arthur.
The four of them made it through the gate without being detected by any of Morgana's men, much to their relieve. They quickly reach the forest. Percival was still supporting Arthur in the hope to go faster. After they had ran for an unknown while they came to a stop.
"Thank you, Percival," Arthur said.
"Can you walk on your own?" Merlin asked him, finally letting go off Lyanna's hand.
"Oh, yes. Just point me in the right direction," Arthur responded. Whatever spell Merlin had used it had caused Arthur to act differently than he normally did.
Footsteps were approaching. "Someone's coming," Lyanna warned the others.
Percival grabbed someone. "Elyan," he said in relief.
"...on my account," Elyan responded and they smiled.
"Is the way out of Camelot clear?" Percival asked him.
"As far as I can tell," Elyan assured him.
They head off again while Arthur lingered to watch Camelot burn. Lyanna walked over to him. "Are you coming, Arthur?" she asked him. Arthur looked up to her her and surprised her by grabbing her hand, something which he hardly ever did. She gave him a warm smile as they turned around and saw that Merlin was waiting for them.
Elyan and Percival were the ones who walked in the front of the group and who kept an eye out for any of Morgana's men while the others were close behind them. Since it was so dark out in the woods it was rather difficult to see where they were going.
"They'll come after us. They know Arthur's still alive," Percival said.
"Then we have to make it across the border, find sanctuary anywhere we can," Elyan suggested while he helped Lyanna with supporting her brother as they kept running.
"I know a place...Ealdor," Merlin called. "It's beyond the White Mountain. Wait!" They all came to a halt while Merlin turned his back to listen. "Listen." From where Lyanna was standing she was able to hear the hoof beats.
"We've got to run!" Lyanna yelped.
The five of them continue to run as fast as they could through the forest with Morgana, Agravaine and the Southrons riding straight for them. Morgana used a spell which threw them all forwards. Merlin and Lyanna helped Arthur to his feet and they ran further again.
This time Southrons were chasing them. "Where's Percival?" Merlin asked after a while, noticing that the large knight was nowhere to be found.
"We have to go!" Elyan simply shouted in return.
Arthur began to lean more on Lyanna while they kept running. Even though he was capable to run on his own, he wasn't acting like himself. They couldn't risk the chance that he would wander off on his own.
The four of them reached a rock trench and Elyan stopped. "Go!"
Arthur ran on while Elyan handed Merlin a sword. "What about you?" Merlin asked.
"Don't worry about me. Go!" Elyan responded.
"Thank you," Lyanna said and Elyan gave her an encouraging smile before she and Merlin ran off. The knight stepped into the trench opening so that he could fight off the Southrons as they came one at a time.
Meanwhile Lyanna, Arthur and Merlin ran into the opposite direction as fast as they could. Elyan had given them enough time to escape and to get away from Morgana and her men. Lyanna's throat was hurting more with every step she took, but she ignored her pain. There were more important things to worry about like getting to safety.
Merlin suddenly stopped running and held up his hand, but Arthur simply ran into him. "Sorry! My fault," the King apologized, sounding rather sincere. Her brother normally hardly apologized, especially not for something like this.
This new development surprised Merlin and Lyanna who exchanged a brief look. "Well, I think we're safe for now," Lyanna said, trying to catch her breath.
"We need to find him some kind of disguise," Merlin suggested. "You're too conspicuous in those clothes."
Arthur looked down at his armour and red cape. "Well, whatever you say. I'm entirely in your hands," he responded.
Merlin stared at Arthur for a moment before they continued on. Lyanna moved beside Merlin. "I don't know what kind of spell you used on him, but he's never been so obedient before," she said in awe.
"I just used one which took away his will and it worked apparently. I'm sure the effect will wear off eventually," Merlin said.
"Ah, well. He's safe which is all that matters and its nice to see him this kind for once," she joked, and they shared a smile while Arthur almost bumped into Lyanna this time.
For now they could finally walk instead of having to run, which was a good improvement. Lyanna's gaze went up to the sky and she noticed that the sun was already rising. They had been on the run for Morgana's men the entire night and hadn't even gotten the chance to rest for a bit. They were exhausted.
They continued to walk for an unknown while until the sun had completely risen. When they found a hut with laundry hanging on the clothesline outside Arthur hunched down over Merlin's shoulder to have a closer look. "Perfect," Merlin muttered. Arthur nodded like an imbecile behind him as Merlin tried to get up with Arthur squeezed in next to him. Lyanna was smirking as she watched them before she turned around and walked over to the clothesline to have a closer look.
She grabbed a few pieces of clothing from the line and handed them to Arthur while she sat down next to Merlin against the other side of the wall. He grabbed her hands and played with her fingers while Lyanna placed her head on his shoulder. Lyanna knew that if she would close her eyes now she would definitely fall asleep, so she did her best to focus on Merlin being so close to her.
"In your own time. Obviously," Merlin said.
"Agh. Sorry, Merlin. Some of these things are a little on the tight side," Arthur complained.
"Beggars can't be choosers, Sire," Merlin responded.
"No, you're right. Probably should learn to think before I speak, shouldn't I?" Arthur asked.
Merlin smiled. "It'd be a start."
"Are you enjoying yourself, Merlin?" Lyanna queried, smirking.
"Is it wrong when I say that I do?" Merlin responded.
She giggled. "No, I can't blame you for saying that. It's quite refreshing to see him act like this for once. I had no idea my brother could be so genuine. You did the right thing by using this spell. He wouldn't have gone with you if you hadn't done it."
"Hmm," Merlin said as he kissed her temple for a couple of seconds. "I'm glad you decided to come with me as well, Lyanna. This is the only way that I can make sure that you're save at all time."
She leaned closer to him. "I know that you only did what was best for me. I don't want to be anywhere else than with you," Lyanna admitted.
Their conversation came to an end by Arthur's voice. "Agh. All done," he said. Arthur stepped out from behind the fall for inspection. The trousers he had chosen reached just below his knee, the sleeves barely reached past his elbows, and the shirt showed a large section of his midriff. Lyanna bit her lip to stifle a giggle.
Merlin meanwhile just closed his eyes and laughed before he helped Lyanna onto her feet. "Well, Arthur, what can I say? You look like a total turnip head," Merlin said.
Lyanna nudged him in his side in a friendly manner and mouthed be nice to him.
"Well, should I try something else? There's-there's plenty more here," Arthur suggested, pointing at the pile of clothes.
"No, Arthur. This will do absolutely fine," Lyanna quickly assured him. She knew that this was the only time that her brother would dress like a simpleton like that and she couldn't ruin that moment. It was far too funny.
"Although, maybe I'll take that," Merlin said, taking the money pouch from Arthur's belt.
"My gooold," Arthur immediately responded.
"Probably safer with me," Merlin clarified.
"Of course," Arthur said, making a funny face.
Lyanna giggled while Merlin stuffed the money pouch in the pocket of the inside of his coat. He smiled a bit and then gave Arthur a strange look. "Well, come on boys. We still have a long way to go," she supplied, knowing that if they stayed here much longer they were risking being tracked down.
"I'm not a boy," Merlin protested just as he always did whenever she called him a boy, while he followed her with Arthur right behind him.
She looked at him over her shoulder. "Are you sure?" He pouted at her which caused her to laugh. "For the hundredth time, Merlin, you're the finest man I know. Does that satisfy you?"
"Very much," he joked, blowing a kiss in her direction. Lyanna blushed at the gesture.
The three of them kept walking further between the trees in the direction of Ealdor. If they would continue in this pace they would surely get there somewhere tomorrow afternoon. Lyanna was already looking forward to that moment.
"Stop," Lyanna suddenly said when she sensed something.
Merlin turned to look at her as he listened. "I'll go check it out," he said, looking at Arthur. "Wait here with Lyanna," he said slowly, emphasizing every word. Arthur nodded in confirmation and Merlin head off.
Before Lyanna could look at Arthur he had already headed off in the other direction. She quickly hurried after him before he would get lost or into trouble. Her brother had gotten a little headstart but she easily caught up with him. "Arthur, come on we -" Lyanna stopped in the middle of her sentence when a blonde woman stood before them, pointing her sword at them.
She smiled. "Hello there," she said.
Lyanna knew that they had been caught and had no other choice than to follow the woman who leaded them through the trees. Up a small hill they found Merlin waiting there, clearly he had been caught as well. They simply followed the woman to the small encampment where more people were running around.
"I found them lurking in the woods," the woman informed.
A blonde man was leaning against a tree while he sharpened a knife. "See anything interesting?" he asked them.
"No," Merlin quickly responded.
Merlin and Arthur ducked as the man threw the knife into the tree behind Merlin's head. "You want to watch where you stick your beak, boy," he warned them.
Lyanna crossed her arms. "We didn't see anything, I can assure you that. We were just passing through," she answered truthfully.
"They've no horses, no supplies, nothing," the woman added. They found out that the woman's name was Isolde and the man was called Tristan.
"Like to travel light, do you?" the man asked.
"Something like that. We don't need a lot of things for a honeymoon," Lyanna clarified, even though she was lying. Merlin immediately looked at her in awe, not expecting that answer at all.
Tristan smiled. "So where is your honeymoon headed?"
"North over the border," Merlin responded.
"Lots kingdom," Tristan smirked. "He doesn't take kindly to strangers, I can tell you. Likes to decorate his fortress with their heads."
"So why exactly are you heading there then?" Lyanna wondered as she looked around the small encampment. She could tell by observing them that they weren't obeying the law. They were hiding something.
"I have my reasons," he said, not wanting to share the truth with these strangers.
"I agree with him," Arthur suddenly said, drawing attention to himself.
Tristan eyed him. "What's wrong with your friend?"
"He's a simpleton, he can't help it," Merlin clarified. It was indeed better to let them think Arthur was simple minded so that they had no idea he was really the King of Camelot. They looked like types who weren't on good terms with nobles.
"Look after him, do you?" Tristan said.
"Without us he wouldn't last a day," Merlin responded.
Arthur nodded at that. Tristan narrowed his eyes at them suspiciously, then looked back at the wagon. "Very well, I suppose you can be on your way," he said, retrieving his knife from the tree.
"Could we not come with you? I mean, I-I would be grateful for the company, to be honest," Merlin said, eyeing Arthur.
Arthur then took a step forwards. "I'm very annoying."
Tristan scoffed. "I'm sorry."
Lyanna knew that they would be safer if they traveled with these people to Lot's kingdom than with just the three of them. They had no idea how many of Morgana's men were still out there looking for them. This was the best shot that they had.
"Please," Merlin tried to reason.
"Don't push it, boy. You're lucky I let you go with your lives," Tristan responded.
"We could pay you," Lyanna offered, which caught their attention. "With gold."
"Well, why didn't you say so before?" Tristan asked, grinning amused as he looked at Isolde.
Arthur smiled like an idiot. Merlin looked at him and Arthur made a serious face.
"We make camp here!" Tristan informed everyone.
Lyanna had been sitting between Arthur and Merlin in the wagon for a couple of hours now and was glad that Tristan had given them a sign so that she could finally move again. She had nearly fallen asleep on Merlin's shoulder three times.
She quickly climbed out of the wagon and saw that Arthur stuck his leg out the wagon behind her and Merlin quickly shoved it back in, causing Lyanna to snicker. "I'll get him out," she said so that Merlin could help elsewhere.
Carefully she got Arthur out of the wagon without him injuring himself. He hadn't just lost his will and intelligence, he had also become a lot clumsier than he had been. When Lyanna went to help them with unloading the wagon Arthur walked over to a nearby tree and began to hug it and stroke it. Lyanna could only hope that when Arthur was his old self again he wouldn't remember anything of this.
When the wagon was finally emptied Merlin returned to fetch them. "Lyanna, they're smugglers," he said with a lowered voice so no one would overhear them while Lyanna tried to follow him to the other side of the encampment. "I saw some of their load and they pretty much confessed it, thinking that they wouldn't get caught by Arthur."
She licked her lips. "I should've known that they were hiding something like that. It explains their behaviour at least. It doesn't matter that they're smugglers, we have more important things to worry about like getting to Ealdor safely," she said. Merlin nodded in agreement.
Lyanna was in charge of collecting firewood with Arthur, who surprisingly enough did know how to help her. He managed to find some good branches and twigs. As they returned Merlin was already sitting at the place where they had set up their small encampment.
The others had given Merlin a extra pot of soup and some bowls and spoons. Lyanna made a campfire while Arthur and Merlin already started to eat their dinner. They hadn't eaten anything since the feast last night. When the fire was burning Merlin motioned for her to sit next to him while he handed her a bowl.
They ate their dinner together in silence. The events of last night surely had taken an effect on them, even though Arthur didn't remember it. Even he was more quiet than usual.
"More soup?" Merlin asked when he noticed that Arthur had finished his bowl.
"Yes, please," Arthur eagerly responded. Merlin ladled some soup for him. "Thank you."
Lyanna's eyes widened at Arthur's kindness. "A please and a thank you at the same time. That's amazing," Merlin dryly replied. Lyanna smiled.
Arthur smacked with his lips a few times. "Is it?"
Merlin nodded, taking the opportunity to tell Arthur about his behaviour. "Hmm. Well, let's just say manners are not your strong point."
"Really?" Arthur asked, completely innocent. Merlin nodded again. "In what way?"
Lyanna exchanged a look with Merlin who refilled her bowl before he continued. "Rude. Thoughtless. Insensitive. And that's when you're in a good mood," Merlin said. Lyanna was just enjoying this so she didn't interfere. Besides there was no harm in what he was doing. He only told Arthur the truth.
"Sorry to hear that," Arthur said, sincere.
A realisation came to Merlin. "I don't think you realise how hard I work for you. I know you're the King, but it would be nice if you could do one small thing for yourself as a...gesture. Mark of respect."
His words seem to have an effect on Arthur. "Sorry to have been a disappointment, Merlin. I'll try harder in the future," he responded.
"Oh, I look forward to that," Merlin said. "On the other hand, why wait?" He dropped his soup bowl on top of the one Arthur was holding, before he placed Lyanna's now empty bowl on top of that. "That pot will need rinsing out as well."
"Of course," Arthur said, obeying easily.
"And when you're done with that, the horses need a rubdown too," Merlin went on.
Arthur smiled. "My pleasure."
Merlin watched Arthur as he got up and took the stewpot, unsure where to take it now. "Over there," Merlin informed, pointing him in the right direction.
Arthur walked over the bushes and tripped over something, causing him to crash down with a clatter. Merlin smiled at that. "Are you alright, Arthur?" Lyanna called, hoping her clumsy brother hadn't injured himself.
"Yeah!" he said back and went further down the nearby stream.
"Having fun, Merlin?" Lyanna asked now that they were alone.
Merlin chuckled. "I'm sorry, Lyanna, but I couldn't let such an opportunity pass. It was too good," he admitted.
She flashed him a warm smile. "You did nothing wrong. It's good that Arthur doesn't remember anything of this when he gets his memory back. I'll just let you enjoy this for once okay."
Merlin laughed and held open his arms for her and she shoved closer until her head was buried into his chest as his arms tightly closed around her. His face was resting on the back of her head while he slowly rocked them back and forth. Lyanna immediately felt herself ease down and her eyes closed as she listened to Merlin's heartbeat which drummed in her ear.
"Do you think that everyone in Camelot is safe?" Lyanna asked after a moment.
"I wish that I could tell you there are, but I can't," Merlin responded.
"I just worry about them. You and I have seen what Morgana is capable of," she said.
"I know, love. I worry about them as well. Morgana sure has gotten a lot stronger over the last year," he replied. "We just need to make it to Ealdor safely and then we can think about a plan to get Camelot back from Morgana and safe the others, alright? It has to work."
Lyanna hummed, feeling herself getting more tired. "I hope so."
Merlin kissed the top of her head. "So do I. We're going to figure this out. For now I want you to relax and get some rest, my love. We're on our honeymoon after all."
She let out a soft laugh. "I didn't know what else I could say. Besides this way no one will be judging us and they keep their distance. I just want to be able to lay like this way with you without being questioned and now we can."
"You made a wise move. Whether or not they disapprove I would held you in my arms anyway. These people don't even know who you are," he said. "Now get some sleep. It's getting late."
Lyanna buried her head deeper into his chest, which she felt vibrating when Merlin laughed at how she clung onto him like that. She always did that especially when she was tired. She just needed to be with him as close as she could.
"Good night, Merlin," she muttered.
He barely heard her, but he understood what she said. "Good night, Lyanna."
The first thing Lyanna thought when she woke up was how warm and safe she felt. She snuggled closer into the warmth and took in the scent of forest and lemon which always made her feel as if she was home. As she heard Merlin softly smacking with his lips her eyes popped open.
They had fallen asleep against a tree. Lyanna was lying in his arms with her head resting on his chest. Somewhere during the night Merlin had placed a blanket over them to keep them both warm and to shield them from the rain. As Lyanna looked up she saw Merlin staring down at her with a smile.
"Morning," he said with a croaked voice. Lyanna tugged onto his neckerchief until his lips were finally on hers. After a moment of shock registering, Merlin kissed her back. Since Lyanna was still lying in his arms they couldn't really move around so Merlin leaned more onto her. Their kiss quickly deepened and Lyanna wanted to kiss him for the rest of her life when their tongues met. Merlin moaned softly in her mouth which only drove her more wild. They parted after a lack of oxygen and grinned goofily at each other. "You sure know how to say good morning."
Lyanna chuckled. "Good morning. You may kiss me again," she said.
Merlin didn't need to be told twice and he immediately pressed his lips onto hers, which Lyanna much appreciated. She couldn't care that they were kissing each other like that amongst strangers and while it was raining. Rain had never bothered her much and now all that she could think about was how glad she was that Merlin was here.
Their moment was ruined when someone was kicking Merlin from behind. They parted and turned their heads only to see Arthur standing there, giving his servant a few small kicks to break them apart. "You better have a damn good explanation for this, Merlin," he said with a low voice. Both Merlin and Lyanna could only stare at him. "Fine. Then I'll carry on kicking you."
Arthur kicked Merlin some more and his servant scrambled to his feet, gently pulling his wife with him. Lyanna took a close look at her brother. "Arthur," she began, forcing him to look back at her. "You're really back."
Arthur frowned in confusion. "What do you mean 'I'm back'? You're talking gibberish."
"Listen to me, please," Merlin insisted. "Camelot is lost. You were injured in an attack, you passed out. We had to get you out of there."
The King was stunned as these memories came back to him. "Where are we now?" he wondered.
"We're heading north to a safe haven, to Ealdor. Hopefully the knights will meet us there," Merlin clarified.
Arthur looked around the camp. "Who are these people?"
Lyanna smiled faintly. "They may be...smugglers," she replied slowly, unsure how her brother was going to react.
"Smugglers?!" Arthur cried out in disbelieve.
"Oi, be quiet. We have more important things to worry about than a couple of smugglers," Lyanna replied.
Arthur sighed. "All right, let's assume, for one moment, you two know what you're doing. It doesn't explain why I look like a village idiot."
"I think you look dashing." Lyanna grinned.
"It's the perfect disguise. No one would ever suspect you of being, you know...who you are," Merlin cleared out.
Arthur obviously disagreed. "I'm sorry, Merlin. I am not going around looking like this."
"You have to. You got to keep in character," Merlin reasoned.
"Character? What character?" Arthur asked.
Before either Lyanna or Merlin had the time to answer a voice interrupted their conversation. "You two." They both turned around to see Tristan standing there. "We leave as soon as the horses are watered. Explain it to the simpleton, would you?"
Arthur looked at Merlin who smiled sheepishly while Lyanna was giggling quietly. This situation was secretly kind of funny and every time she saw her brother wearing that outfit she couldn't help but smile again.
They continued their conversation for a few more minutes before they walked to the wagon. Merlin was carrying Arthur's sword, but Arthur took it back causing Tristan and Isolde to look up. "Simpleton," Tristan called.
"He's talking to you, Arthur," Lyanna replied quietly, but with a grin.
"I don't answer to that name," Arthur argued.
"In character, remember," Merlin reminded him with a lowered voice.
They came to a halt in front of the wagon. Tristan looked down at the sword. "Impressive piece," he said.
"Thank you, sir," Arthur responded, trying to act like a village idiot. Lyanna had to stifle a giggle, and Merlin silenced her with a look even though he was smiling himself.
"May I?" Tristan asked. Arthur let him take the sword so that he could examine it. He scoffed. "Magnificent. The only place you find workmanship of this quality is the royal forge of Camelot." Tristan now put the sword to Arthur's throat and Lyanna did a step forwards. "Tell me, how did you come by it."
"I won it in a card game," Merlin quickly blurted out, crossing his arms. "I gave it to him as a present. He won't be parted from it. Makes him feel safe."
Tristan narrowed his eyes suspiciously. Arthur nodded stupidly and Tristan handed the sword back to him. "I hope for your sake that's true." Arthur took the sword as if he had no clue how to properly hold it. "I'd hate to think I was riding with a knight of Camelot."
You're riding with two, Lyanna thought, but kept her lips pressed together. It was for the best not to share any personal information with smugglers who were clearly not too fond of royalty and nobles.
Arthur clumsily hugged the sword to his chest. "Aye."
Isolde giggled. "Knight of Camelot. Look at him."
Merlin chuckled while Arthur pretended not to know how to put the sword in his belt. Lyanna was there to help him out, even though he perfectly knew how to do it himself.
"You're right. Their knights may be stupid, but they're not that stupid," Tristan agreed with a laugh. Arthur put on a big smile and chuckled with the rest of them as Merlin tussled his hair. Tristan and Isolde turned around and walked off after that.
"Pack your things, simpleton!" Merlin said, amusing himself.
Arthur grabbed Merlin's arm while he was still smiling. "Call me that again and I'll run you through."
"Arthur, stop being rude to my husband. Thank you," Lyanna butted in after having not said a single word in this conversation. She knew when to stay on the background. "I don't think you have to keep up this appearance for much longer."
He looked at her. "How long?!"
Before Lyanna could answer again she felt a sharp, twinging pain in her arm and cried out. She looked down and saw the end of an arrow sticking out of her upper left arm and cursed under her breath. "Not again."
Merlin was by her side and pulled her out of the way as they saw Southrons charging the camp. "Lyanna! Are you alright?" he asked her frantically, cupping her cheek and shaking her head a few times in the hope that she would open her eyes.
"Fine," she answered with a weak voice.
"Don't lie to me," he responded with a firm voice. "It's not funny, Lyanna, you've been hit."
"Well, I can bloody feel that," she growled sarcastically, opening her eyes.
"Let me look at it for you," Merlin offered, feeling concern for his wife seeping into his bones. "You're bleeding!"
Lyanna exhaled deeply. "There's no time for that. The wound is not fatal. Look at it later okay." She stepped away from him before he would come at her again. She knew how worried he was about her and he would try to stop her which was what she needed to prevent.
She ran to take cover behind the wagon with Tristan and Isolde. Arthur handed his sister and Merlin a crossbow. "Head for those trees, we'll cover for you," he instructed Tristan and Isolde who exchanged a confused look. "Do you want to live or not?"
Tristan stepped forwards to question Arthur, but Isolde grabbed his arm and they ran off.
Lyanna felt her vision going blurry, which made it difficult for her to detect the Southruns that came running towards them. She still saw a couple of spots and was able to hit them after all, even though it took more effort than usual.
"Now what?" she heard Merlin say on the other side.
"Now its our turn," Arthur responded.
"Who's going to cover us?" Merlin asked, reloading his crossbow.
"Don't be a simpleton, Merlin."
They took aim again and all managed to hit another Southron, but more kept coming. It was impossible to fight them all of. Lyanna unsheathed her sword while Arthur picked up his as they ran off, away from the Southrons. Tristan and Isolde weren't that far ahead and they all took cover behind a fallen tree with them.
"They haven't found the cargo," Isolde said.
"They will," Tristan sadly responded. "Besides, they weren't after the cargo. They were after you. Who the hell are you?" He was looking at Arthur and Lyanna now.
"My name is Arthur Pendragon," Arthur answered while he didn't look up. "This here is my sister Lyanna."
Isolde frowned in confusion at the young woman. "Hiya," Lyanna dryly replied, smiling faintly as she waved with her hand. Her eyes fell close and this time Lyanna supported her arm by holding it with her hand.
"The King and Princess of Camelot!" Tristan cried out.
"At least I was," Arthur said."
"I've lost everything I've worked for for some good for nothing King!"
"That's quite something coming from a smuggler."
"Guys, stop it," Lyanna butted in, but was completely ignored. Their voices drilled inside her head.
"Well, I wouldn't have to be a smuggler if it wasn't for your damn taxes, would I!?" Tristan went on in rage.
"Those taxes help protect the people of this land," Arthur reasoned with him.
"My people are dead. You call that protections."
"Excuse me, sorry to interrupt but..." Merlin came between them. He directed their attention to the Southrons who came charging at them from behind. Lyanna stood up and twirled her sword around in her hands while she ran at these men. Despite the fact that she was injured she was still able to fight.
With every men that she fought she felt her arm throbbing, but ignored the pain. She turned her head when she saw Isolde getting slashed in the arm and kicked to the ground. Just before one of the Southrons readied himself for the final blow Arthur stabbed him in the back. Tristan immediately ran to Isolde and held her.
"Isolde. We had a deal. Partners for life, remember?" Tristan whispered.
Lyanna watched them empathetically. "When have I not kept my promise?" Isolde softly responded. Tristan kissed her forehead.
Merlin was suddenly at Lyanna's side and pulled the arrow out of her arm before she could argue with him. She cried out in pain as the tears rolled over her cheeks. "I'm sorry, love. I didn't mean to hurt you," Merlin apologized as he untied ripped a bit off fabric from the sleeve of his tunic.
"You're an idiot," Lyanna squeaked, rubbing the tears away.
He smiled faintly. "Gaius was right. Physicians are the worst patients." Lyanna softly chuckled at that while Merlin pressed the fabric against her wound to stop the bleeding. "I know I'm not a physician, but I know what to do. It's the not the first time you've got shot and I treated you. I seriously hope this isn't becoming a habit, my heart can't take that."
"It's not my fault," she complained and flinched when her wound twitched again. "Its not as if I do it on purpose. I don't want to leave you."
"I cannot treat your wound properly now I'm afraid because I don't have any herbs with me," Merlin responded as he tied his neckerchief around her arm. "I'll treat it properly as soon as we're in Ealdor, alright?"
Lyanna nodded. "Thank you. I'm sorry that I yelled at you," she apologized.
Merlin smiled. "That's all forgiven. I'm just glad you're alright. You had me worried there for a moment," he said before he leaned forwards to kiss her softly on the lips.
They parted a few seconds later when Arthur cleared his throat behind them. "We need to keep moving. They'll be more coming soon," he said.
"Then go," Tristan responded. "There's no stopping you."
Arthur rolled with his eyes. "Come with us to Ealdor," Merlin offered. "You'll be safe there."
"I'm choosy about the company I keep," Tristan objected with his mind made up.
"He saved my life, Tristan," Isolde said. She leaned up a bit to look at Arthur. "Thank you."
"But none of this would've happened if it wasn't for them," Tristan disagreed.
Isolde sighed at his stubbornness. "She injured and my sister are injured. They need shelter and rest," Arthur clarified.
"The people there can help us," Lyanna added.
Tristan sighed and looked at Arthur for second before gazing down at Isolde who nodded. "Very well. But know this, Arthur Pendragon, I do this for her. You and your kind bring nothing but misery to this land."
They had walked for the rest of the day as fast as they could with two injured women in their company. Lyanna refused any help and tried to keep up with the others, ignoring the constant throbbing in her arm. She knew that the wound needed to be treated properly soon or she would risk the chance of it getting infected.
The day had almost come to an end when they came to a halt. "This marks the border between Camelot and Lot's kingdom," Arthur informed them.
"Ealdor lies at the far side of that valley. Maybe half a day on foot," Merlin added.
"We'll rest here for the night. There's no way Agravaine could've tracked us through those mountains," Arthur said.
"I'll make a fire, we must keep Isolde warm," Merlin offered. Tristan let go off Isolde so that Merlin can put her arm around his neck to help her to a campsite.
Arthur held out a water flask to Tristan. "Here you should drink up."
Tristan walked on. "I'll get my own."
Lyanna smiled faintly. "Don't beat yourself up about it. Tristan just has a certain imagine about royalty and nobles. He had no idea yet how wrong his prejudice is," she said. "He'll come to terms eventually. I'm going to look for some herbs."
"I'll come with you," Arthur insisted. Lyanna opened her mouth to argue, but he beat her to it. "Don't be ridiculous, Lee. In case you haven't noticed you're injured yourself and I can't let you wander off on your own. I already failed to protect you."
"You didn't fail me," Lyanna replied sweetly as they walked away from the others. "Nor did Merlin. I know you're both blaming yourself, but its not your fault. I'm glad I got shot instead of you. You're still injured from the fight back at Camelot."
Arthur caught up with her quickening pace. "You knew about Agravaine's loyalty," he said. It wasn't a question, but a statement which he wanted her to confirm.
She met his gaze. "Yes, I did. Who do you think turned us against each other when Agravaine suddenly got suspicious of Gaius and me? He planted that doubt in your mind which made you question my loyalty, while he had been the one who had been playing us all this time. He has never been honest with us, Arthur. Not once."
"And yet you never told me," Arthur said.
"It was exactly the same as with Morgana a few years ago, Arthur. You wouldn't have believed me and I can't blame you for that. You're so loyal to everyone that you don't see who's trying to stab you in the back," Lyanna replied.
He paused for a moment. "I just can't believe that I was so blinded to his treachery as I was to Morgana's. I'm such a fool."
"That's not your fault. They simply deceived us. It could've happened to everyone."
"Yet it keeps happening to me. We cared about these people, Lee. I... I don't understand. What have I done wrong which made them hate me so much?" Arthur questioned, sounding rather hopeless.
Lyanna placed her hand on his shoulder. "They don't hate you, Arthur. All that they want is your powers for themselves," she clarified.
He exhaled. "Do you think I'm a good King to my people, Lee?"
"I do," she replied honestly. "Is this because of what Tristan said?" Arthur slowly nodded. "That man has been through a lot and just needed someone to blame. That doesn't justify the man that you are. You're already an amazing King who the people of Camelot love. They would follow you everywhere."
"Are you sure about that?" he asked sceptically.
"Very sure," Lyanna assured him with a smile. "It may sound hard to believe right now, but I'm telling the truth, Arthur. Trust me when I say that I'm not the only one who thinks that. The people are loyal to you."
Arthur surprised her by suddenly pulling his sister into an embrace. She let out a soft yelp when he accidentally tightened the grip on her injured arm. "Sorry," he immediately apologized, loosening his grip a bit until she was more comfortable. "Thank you. Not just for your reassuring words, but for always being there for me."
"I don't want to be anywhere else," she admitted as she let go of him again. She then spotted the herb that she had been looking for and knelt down to pluck several twigs of them. "I've got them. This should help the soreness of me and Isolde's wound for a bit."
He smiled fondly at her. "Look at you. Even when you're injured yourself you're thinking about looking after other people," he said in admiration for his sister. "You're always looking after everyone else."
Lyanna grinned. "Well, I guess that's just women's instinct."
"Yes, perhaps," he said, hooking his arm through her good one. "I've seen plenty of women who are not a caring as you are. Its just part of your goodhearted nature. You always see the good in people. That's a fact."
They began to walk back. "I used to," Lyanna admitted. "With Morgana and Agravaine's betrayal I'm much more careful these days. But Arthur we'll get Camelot back from them. You'll be able to continue your reign as King. It's all going to end well." Plus there is a surprise waiting for you in Ealdor.
"Do you think so?" Arthur asked.
"I do indeed," she firmly replied.
It didn't took them long to make it back to the others. As they got there they saw that the campfire was already burning and that Merlin was busy with making some stew for them with hares Tristan must've found.
Isolde was lying next to the campfire for now to keep warm and Lyanna knelt down beside her. "I've got you something that should help with the pain," she said, snapping the twigs into tinier pieces. Since she didn't have any mortar and pestle with her she wasn't able to grind the herb into tiny pieces. She had to use her hands this time and hoped it had the same effect.
"Shouldn't you get your own wound treated first?" Isolde asked her as she sat up right.
Lyanna opened her mouth to reply, but Merlin was faster. "I'll do that for her later. She's quite stubborn when it comes herself," he offered. Lyanna turned her head and caught him smiling at her before he walked over to where Arthur was.
"He sure seems to love you a lot," Isolde said amused while Lyanna removed the filthy cloth from Isolde's arm which Tristan had used. "Yesterday you told us that you two had gotten married. That was a lie right?"
"No, it was not a lie. Me and Merlin got married about six months ago," Lyanna confessed. Despite the fact that Isolde was a smuggler she seemed very kind, and to Lyanna being honest with her seemed like the right thing she could do.
Isolde frowned slightly. "I've never heard word about that."
"We secretly got married in Ealdor actually," Lyanna explained, rubbing the herbs on Isolde's wound, who flinched a bit. "Sorry about that. My father was a difficult and strict man. He would've thrown Merlin on the pyre if had ever found out that he and I were in love. My father has never understood love and doesn't think that two people from different status can fall in love without the use of an enchantment. Luckily for me my brother was more understanding. When he was crowned King Merlin and I got married elsewhere and we'll get our public wedding when Arthur has his Queen. Only a few people know about our marriage so far."
"Why didn't you ever run away from Camelot?" Isolde questioned.
"Because everyone we care about and our life is in Camelot," Lyanna clarified. "I have had to hide my true feelings for Merlin for more than four years now, but I won't have to do that forever. The hiding will end."
Isolde exhaled. "That must've have been extremely painful for you. I can't even imagine having to hide my feelings for Tristan."
"It's a good thing that you don't have to hide that," Lyanna replied with a smile, while she wrapped a clean fabric around Isolde's arm. "It's one of the privileges when you're not a noble."
"I always had a certain imagine about nobles," Isolde began. "You have proved that wrong. I had always thought such people to be spoiled and cold, but you're completely opposite. Where did you learn how to treat wounded people?"
She chuckled. "I studied with the court physician for several years and am one now myself," Lyanna enlightened her. "It's nicer than having to attend council matters all day. I'm not made to sit still."
"A princess who is a physician," Isolde muttered perplexed. "That's not something I've heard before. Most woman scream at the sight of blood."
"Not me. Anyway you're wound is not that bad. I'll be able to treat it more properly when we reach Ealdor tomorrow where there are more herbs and equipment that I can use. You're going to be fine," Lyanna assured her, standing up.
Isolde smiled at her. "Thank you for looking after my wound."
"Not a problem. Just shout for me when it hurts again so I can try something else," Lyanna offered before she turned around so that Tristan could sit down next to Isolde. Lyanna walked over to where Merlin and Arthur were sitting on the other side of the campfire.
"Lyanna, please sit down," Merlin immediately instructed her. She sat down beside him without questioning him, knowing that he wasn't going to let it rest. He took the remaining herbs from her hand. "How does your arm feel?"
"Not so bad," Lyanna quickly responded.
Merlin pressed his lips together. "Lyanna, there is no need to lie. I can see you're in pain because its in your eyes. You don't have to pretend you're alright. You've been shot for God sake that's not something minor. So please, tell me the truth now."
Lyanna fidgeted with her necklace which Merlin noticed. "Alright, it does hurt."
He sighed as he untied the bloody neckerchief around her arm to have a close look at her arrow wound. There was still enough sunlight in the sky so that he could see it, but it was almost gone. "My brave warrior," he said with a proud smile while he gently rubbed the herbs onto her wound and she didn't flinch. It was the same thing what Lyanna had said to him when she had treated his head wound a few years ago and he remembered it well.
It seemed to make her ease down and she returned the smile. She kept quiet while Merlin tended her wound with the last remaining sunlight in the sky.
"I know you had already deduced it earlier, but the wound is clean and not infected. Yet I still want to treat it again for you when we reach Ealdor which other herbs if you want me to," Merlin informed her while he tied a clean neckerchief around her arm. Clearly he had brought a spare one with him.
Lyanna didn't say anything, but simply leaned forwards to cup his cheeks so that she could kiss him. Merlin chuckled against her lips as his hands rested on her lower arms. No matter how bad Lyanna was feeling as soon as she was with Merlin she always felt much better. He was what she needed to be happy.
"Yeah, that's one way to thank me," Merlin said with a lopsided grin when they parted a couple of seconds later.
"I like to do it my way," she replied, giggling. "Thank you, Merlin."
She was about to kiss him again when she heard someone clearing his throat. They both turned their heads to see Arthur sitting there, from which presence they had gotten unaware of a few minutes ago. Normally they never kissed like that and so often in front of the King. "So married," he said.
"Happily married," Lyanna corrected him with a grin. "You can have that too when you're reunited with Gwen again."
Arthur shook his head. "Who is to say I shall ever see her again? I don't even know where she is or still wants me."
But we do and she's waiting for you. Lyanna licked her lips. "Oh, you'll see her again," she said optimistically.
As soon as they stepped foot into Ealdor the following afternoon Lyanna couldn't help but smile at the small village. No matter how many times she had been here in the past it was always extremely pleasant to be here again. It was nice to see that none of Morgana's men had made it here.
Tristan was still supporting Isolde who wasn't walking as fast as the other due to her injury. Lyanna's small enlarged when she caught sight of a familiar figure running towards them.
"Merlin," Hunith sighed in relief and hugged her son tightly, both with huge smiles on their faces.
"Mother," Merlin responded.
Hunith gently ruffled his raven hair. "Welcome home, Merlin," she said, making him laugh. She then got aware of Lyanna's presence who stood beside him. "Oh, my dear!" she exclaimed cheerfully as she pulled Lyanna in an embrace.
"It's good to see you again, Hunith. I had promised that I would bring Merlin back you to sooner, although I had hoped it would be under different circumstances," Lyanna replied.
Hunith let go off her and looked at the others. "What has happened? Why are they injured?"
"I'll explain it to you, mother," Merlin assured her.
"Hunith, can I use your herb supply?" Lyanna asked her.
The woman nodded. "Of course, dear. You know where to find them."
Merlin introduced his mother to Isolde and Tristan before he told her everything that had happened since he had last been here. Meanwhile Lyanna leaded Tristan and Isolde into the small house where Hunith lived all alone. While Tristan placed Isolde on a bed Lyanna began to rummage to Hunith's herb stock. It wasn't as big as the one that Gaius had back at Camelot, but there were definitely some herbs which she needed which was a good sign.
Now that she had more herbs and equipment she was able to make more efficient salves to threat their wounds and to stop the swelling and soreness. Hunith had offered Lyanna the kitchen table where she would have enough space to make them.
"Do you need any help?" Hunith offered, being her humble self. It was so obvious as to where Merlin had gotten his good nature from. He was exactly the same as his mother. "I'm not a physician, but I do know a thing or two about herbs."
Lyanna smiled at her. "Well then, your help is much appreciated. Could you mince these for me?" she asked. As she looked around the small house she noticed that all the men had gone out. Clearly they had wanted to give them some space and privacy and would come back later.
"Sure," Hunith responded as she grabbed a clean knife.
"I'm curious though, but where is Gwen right now?" Lyanna asked.
"She's currently helping on the fields," Hunith enlightened her. "She should be back any minute now."
As on cue the door of the house opened and another familiar person stepped inside. "Gwen!" Lyanna shrieked in happiness at the sight of her dearest friend as she ran towards her and pulled her into her arms. "Oh, I've missed you so much!"
Gwen was laughing happily now. "It's been ages! I've been thinking about you a lot. It's good to finally meet each other again under better circumstances," she replied. "Is Arthur with you?"
Lyanna nodded as they pulled apart. "He is outside with Merlin somewhere," she said. "Do you want to look for him?"
"No. No. It's not that," Gwen replied. "I think it's for the best if I check on Arthur later tonight by myself then."
"Good plan," Lyanna agreed. "He has wounded ribs so he may need someone to look after him. It's not my business to interfere, but I know he'll be happy to see you again, Gwen."
"I doubt it, Lyanna. Anyway I'll leave for now, but I'll come back later tonight," Gwen assured her. "We can catch up on everything then."
"Looking forward to that," Lyanna called after her as Gwen left. As soon as the silence fell in the house Lyanna returned to the table where Hunith was still mincing some herbs. The two of them finished the salves not long after that.
While Lyanna tended the wound of Isolde the others returned the house. Tristan and Arthur sat down at the now cleaned up table while Hunith was busy making some dinner in the small kitchen.
Nearly an hour went by and Tristan and Arthur were eating dinner while Lyanna was checking on a sleeping Isolde again. "I've cleaned the wound and gave her something against the pain. There's no sign of infection. With plenty of rest, she'll be fine," Lyanna informed.
"Thank you, Merlin and Lyanna, for everything you've done for her," Tristan said gratefully.
Lyanna and Merlin nodded and left the room. As they stood outside of the house Merlin turned to look at her. "I had promised to look after your wound. Do you want me to do that now?" Merlin asked, cupping her face.
She shook her head. "No, there is no need for that. Gwen is coming over later to check on Arthur. You should really spend some time with your mother while we're here. She hasn't seen you in months and I believe you haven't told her much in your letters. Does she know about Rowan?"
"I cannot tell her something like that in a letter," Merlin clarified, his voice cracking a little. "I wanted to tell her face to face."
Lyanna smiled faintly. "Then go tell her then. Take that amazing mother of you for a walk. I'll wait here until you return."
"I will do. Shouldn't be long until I'm back," he assured as he lightly kissed her on the lips. Lyanna watched how he walked towards the other end of the path where his mother was chatting with one of the other villagers. He talked with her for a bit before they both wandered off for a brisk walk, spending some quality mother and son time.
It was a rather warm evening so Lyanna decided to sit down on bench in front of the house. Despite that it was getting darker she was still able the see enough by the bright moonlight that shone down. She had already brought the salve and bandage with her when she left the house and placed them on her lap, waiting for her friend.
She just watched the villagers walking down the several paths as they chatted with one another. Ever since Kanen's men had been defeated things sure had brightened up here and it almost seemed as if that horrible tyrant and his men had never visited here. Almost. The memory of Will dying to save Arthur was still fresh in her mind. She could never forget that.
Shortly after that Gwen arrived, with a bright smile on her lips. When she noticed the supplies on Lyanna's lap she laughed. "Do you want me to do it?" Gwen asked.
"If you don't mind," Lyanna replied as Gwen sat down beside her. The maid's gentle fingers started to untie the neckerchief and to rub the salve onto it. "So Gwen, how have you been here? We haven't spoken each other since that incident with Morgana." Which had been a few weeks ago.
"As well as any one could be in this situation," Gwen responded. "It's been hard, but I've been able to manage. I'm still grateful that you and Merlin recommended me to come here."
"I knew that Hunith wouldn't mind taking you in," Lyanna said.
Gwen smiled as she tied a clean bandage around Lyanna's arm. "She's only been kind to me so far."
Lyanna turned her head. "I'm sure of that. Thank you for looking after my arm but I do believe you're attention is required elsewhere. Just go see him, Gwen." Gwen's smile enlarged before she went into the house, leaving Lyanna there by herself.
It became more quiet in the village as more people returned inside their houses. Lyanna just sat there alone, fidgeting with her necklace as she gazed up at the moon which looked very peaceful. Her thoughts wandered to the people they had left behind in Camelot and she hoped that they were still alright. No harm could befall them.
Lyanna felt a chill setting in her skin as she heard people screaming. She looked up to see the Southrons' torches surrounding the village. "Agravaine is here," Merlin said as he came running towards her. "He found us. We've got to go now."
There was no time to linger and Lyanna followed Merlin in the house where he warned the others. It didn't took long until they were all awake, and Arthur was dressed in his chainmail while Gwen was wearing some furs.
"Any suggestions?" Tristan asked as they all watched how Agravaine and the Southrons harassed some of the villagers, which was horrible to watch.
"Round the back," Merlin instructed and waited for them to leave, but only Lyanna stayed next to him. His eyes glowed as he set a cart rolling towards Agravaine. "Bæl on bryne!" Again his eyes glowed and the inside of the cart went up in flames.
Lyanna grabbed Merlin's hand and pulled him away with her. Now that Agravaine and the Southrons had dashed out of the way just in time they were able to escape. Only they were spotted by Agravaine as they made it out of the village and into the woods.
To be continued...
I want to thank everyone who reads this story and reviews it. Can't believe we've passed the 400 reviews on this story which is astonishing. Thank you so much for that!
HPuni101: Ah I'm really glad you think so. Was there enough drama in this chapter? :) Thank you for saying that. That's so incredibly sweet of you. I just want to update this story once a week cause I know how frustrated it can be when a fanfic you're following hasn't updated in ages, but I also know how difficult it is to keep writing and to update. We both understand that problem :P I hope you get to finish your chapter on time. Ah how sweet that you will continue to re-read this story. Thank you so much for the kind review!
CHARLES CHUKU: Thank you for saying that. I didn't like it either, but I understand why he did it cause she was not Gwen. Still Mithian is very kind and she she deserved better.
Lady Ravanna: Wow I'm glad that you think that. I did feel guilty for being too late with updating, cause I really want to give you guys a nice chapter every week which is a lot of work. I know that a lot of fanfic writers don't update that regularly which can be annoying, especially when you follow this story and you have to wait very long for some new work. That's why I wanted to update more :D Its a relief to hear that you thought I was overreacting haha. The teasing Merlin part was really adorable ah xD Thank you for your sweet review!
TheTombedSpirit: She will come back to Camelot in the next chapter :) Be patient. Thank you!
ArmyWife22079: Well there was a sort of 'I told you so' in this chapter xD
Guest: I'm so glad that you liked it. It was so adorable how Merlin ruined those chances for Arthur. In the end Arthur sure did realize that he's meant for Gwen. I really liked writing this chapter. I liked that too! Of course Lyanna wasn't too fond of Mithian at first since she's not Gwen and due to Arthur's intentions. Also she wasn't too happy with Mithian asking her about her relationship with Merlin, but she was sure glad that she had told the truth. They're good friends. Merlin and Lyanna make such a good due into making sure that Arthur makes no mistakes, it was sweet. They sure care a lot about Arthur, especially in all those ways you pointed out. Haha it was very obvious to Mithian, it was so tempting to let her make that comment xD Yes, Gwen is going to get more time in the next chapter. It's good that she's coming back. Oh yes things are getting dramatic :D Thank you for the review!
