Merlynn learns some things about her clan and betrothed that she never knew. Arthur's confused.
Whack! "Ow! What'd you do that for?!"
Morgana doesn't know her own strength.
"You! She ran because of you and your googly, moony eyes."
"Oh come on, you heard her. She's on those suppresant things. That's why she doesn't feel the attraction. Once she's off them, she'll know the same way I do."
"So what, princess, you're gonna wait four years?" Gwaine hates to be the bearer of bad news, but Arthur needs a serious reality check.
"Well, no. Look, I'll figure something out, okay?" He points in the direction Merlynn left. "That woman is mine. We are meant to be together. I know it, and you know it." Arthur doesn't understand why his friends are fighting him on this. They heard the same thing he did.
"Actually, Arthur, she had a good point. This prophecy has been around for fifteen hundred years, and you've apparently lived several lifetimes. You were happily married your first one. That's clear in history. There's no record anywhere of a romantic relationship between King Arthur and the sorcerer, Merlin. Maybe there really is such a thing as platonic soulmates." Leon tries to sensitively be the voice of reason.
"No, she's mine!" Everyone is startled by the outburst and vehemence behind it.
"What about the 'closer than brothers?'" Pecival reminds Arthur.
"Yeah, you know what's closer than brothers? Lovers."
"But wait a minute, what are you saying? That you were lovers that first lifetime? That you were unfaithful to Guinevere?" Lancelot has no idea why he is so affronted by Arthur cheating on his fiance fifteen hundred years ago.
"You heard her, Lancelot. You and Guinevere are destined just like Merlynn and I are. I was just a filler until you came along again."
Morgana's been eyeing her brother curiously since his outburst. She thinks she's starting to put it together, but only one way to know for sure. "Are you saying you were gay?"
Arthur looks down and away from everyone, head bowed and flushing crimson. He's crushing his napkin between his fingers nervously. Fuck, he wasn't expecting a medieval coming out party. "Um... I uh... I think I might have been, yes."
"Why?" He glares at his sister.
"It's a legitimate question. Why would you think you were gay? Just because you want Merlynn now, doesn't give you the right to claim her for all of history, conveniently calling yourself homosexual, so you can claim it's destiny. You've never shown any interest in men. You can't just assume you must have been gay because you want her now."
"That's not what this is." He doesn't want to go here.
"Then what is it, Arthur? Come on, tell us. Why do you think you were gay?"
"That's not it." He's gradually growing more irritated and embarrassed.
"Not what?"
"It's not like that!" Fucking harpy.
"Not like what?"
"I'm not just saying that, so I can have her now."
"So, why are you? Come on, stop being a pussy and tell us."
Fire is igniting inside him.
"Say it Arthur. Tell us the truth."
Blood is boiling with anger and humiliation.
"Get a grip and grow a pair, Arthur! Tell us!"
Fuck it. He slams his hands on the table and springs to his feet. "Because I wanted him, all right! When she was in her male form I wanted him just as much as I want her! I thought he was gorgeous and sexy! I've never been attracted to a man in my life, and I wanted to snog him senseless and fuck his brains out! Happy?!" As he scans the room. Everyone is frozen, including the princess. He collapses into his chair in defeat and speaks quietly. "That's how I know, okay? I don't think it's that I've been homosexual. I think it's that I'm always Merlynn-sexual. Whether it is l-i-n or l-y-n-n, doesn't matter. He or she, THEY are always mine." He glimpses at his sister. "Get it?"
She slowly nods, still speechless from her brother's confession.
"So you think you did cheat on Guinevere?"
"No. I think I was a filler for her while she waited for you. But she was a filler for me, waiting for the times to catch up with my heart. I doubt I even acknowledged my feelings for Merlin then. As a king I would have been pressured for an heir, and there had never been a homosexual monarch. It just wasn't done. Guinevere fit the bill for queen nicely. She was a preferred match."
"Okay. I get that you think you and Merlynn are destined in love and everything, but I think you're forgetting a little detail. Merlynn is already in love with Mordred," Elena stresses.
"She's not in love. She said she's not even attracted to him."
"Ah, ah, ah. That does not mean she doesn't love him. They're like those one couples." She snaps her fingers trying to recall the correct term, then glances at her roommate. "You know the ones I'm talking about, Gwen. They are a couple, but they don't have sex. You know."
"Oh, yes! Asexuals."
"Yes, that's it! Asexuals. They're like that. Gwen and I have seen them. Trust me, they are in love. In his fourteen year old body, it's a little creepy, not gonna lie, but when he ages himself, they're actually quite adorable and absolutely besotted with each other."
"They aren't besotted! How can they be? She's not attracted to him, said so herself."
Gwen can tell Arthur is hurting, but he needs to hear this. "She's not attracted to anyone, Arthur. Just because you don't understand it doesn't mean it doesn't exist. I've read about couples having gratifying, fulfilling, loving relationships that are not attracted to each other as you and I know it. Their intimacy is limited to hugs, holding hands, cuddling, things like that."
The prince is shaking his head as she talks.
"This is not the same! Merlynn isn't asexual. She's been temporarily castrated until she marries. There's a difference!"
"Gwen knows there's a difference, Arthur, but as you say, Merlynn's been castrated since she was thirteen. For seven years she's had these suppresants and in that time, she has developed strong, romantic feelings for her betrothed. That's what the girls are saying. She may not be asexual, but the effect is the same. She is in love. Am I right, ladies?"
"Nailed it, Lance. I never said Merlynn was asexual. I said she was like them. And she is."
Arthur doesn't want to hear this. He doesn't want to hear his Merlynn's in love with someone else. "It doesn't matter."
"What do you mean it doesn't matter, mate? If your girl's in love with another bloke, I think it matters."
"No, it doesn't, Elyan. Don't you see? Merlynn and I have been together for fifteen hundred years. We're fated. It's like written in the stars or some shit. I don't know how, but this lifetime won't be any different. I know it."
"Uh, are you forgetting something my dearest brother? You may be fated, but Mordred is fated to kill you. Don't you think if you take his girl he might do just that? The only reason she said the prophecy was canceled was because of their relationship. If you take that away then wouldn't the prophecy be back on the table?"
"I'm not afraid of some fourteen year old kid."
"That fourteen year old kid is a high priest of the Old Religion. Don't underestimate him."
"So, what are you saying, sis? Are you going to unite with him in evil against me? Against Merlynn and I?"
"No, of course not. Okay, think about it like this. You may not be concerned about Mordred, but Merlynn is. Even if she weren't in love with him, she would never leave him if she thought it would protect your life."
Around the table, nods abound in agreement.
That's the crux of it, isn't it? That's the true dilemma. Even if somehow he got her off the suppresants and she was attracted to Arthur, she would still marry Mordred just to save his life. "No! I don't care! I don't want to live if it's not with her!"
Time stops. Arthur continues unaware of the frightfully alarming statement he just made.
"She's mine! She was made for me. She is part of me, and I am part of her. Forever together, forever entwined." He stands from the table. "There's no other way for this story to end..." He tosses his napkin on the table and pushes his chair in. "...but with her in MY arms and NOT Mordred's." With his dishes and utensils in hand, he leaves them all... dumbstruck.
They sit in silence contemplating everything that's been said. They're all reincarnations of the ancient legend, King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table. Arthur and Merlynn are either destined lovers or platonic soulmates. He thinks the former while she's the latter. She's engaged apparently to his fated murderer, but than his sister is some kind of dormant evil.
"What'd you think he's going to do?" Elyan, like everyone else has been lost in thought about the whole afternoon, but it's the moments after Merlynn walked out that are most disconcerting.
"What'd you mean?" Gwaine doesn't know what to think about anything. He's still processing.
"What'd I mean? Am I the only one that sees how Arthur's been lately? And the comments he's made. Nobody else finds them... concerning? He said he didn't want to live without her. He keeps saying 'she's mine' like some sort of prehistoric caveman. He doesn't care how she feels or for his own safety. Am I seriously the only one who sees something wrong with this? Ladies, where's your inner feminist?"
"This isn't the same type of situation. Elena wasn't formed by some Goddess for Gwaine. They choose to be together. Arthur and Merlynn are more... well, Arthur and Merlynn. They're one, literally."
Elyan thought at least Sefa would agree with him.
"I know what you mean, Elyan."
Thank you to the resident giant.
"The jealousy and possessiveness is a bit... 'Fatal Attraction'."
"What are you saying, Percival? My brother's going to start boiling bunnies?"
"No, I just mean his feelings are a tad... intense."
"Oh come off it. You have as big a hard-on for her as he does. You don't want them to be together. Of course his fucking feelings are intense. They share a soul! If half your soul was wandering around, you'd be going after it, full tilt."
Percival wishes the floor would open and swallow him whole. He didn't think his crush was so obvious. But irregardless of his feelings towards the witch, he and Elyan still have a valid point, and he's not going to let it slide. "No, I didn't say that. And I know I can't begin to comprehend their connection. I understand that Arthur's feelings are justified. But justified or not his behavior is obsessive. He seems to have a one track mind of 'she will be his' and it's like he can't think about anything else. And then there's Merlynn that's none the wiser. He doesn't consider her feelings at all."
"Damn Perce. I don't think I've ever heard you say more than a sentence at a time before. Morgana, you need to calm down and look at this logically. Percy and Elyan have a point. From the moment Arthur met Merlynn, he hasn't been the same."
"Bu..."
Gwaine interrupts her with a 'stop' hand gesture. "Let me finish. I get that he wouldn't be the same after meeting the other half of his soul. I get that probably anyone in his situation would probably be the same. That doesn't make it any less unsettling. He has been obsessive, and you know it. All that seems to matter to him right now is being with her. And his constant claims of ownership over her... well." He rolls his hand to the group as if gesturing for them to make their own conclusions.
"So what, you think my brother would hurt her? I think the Goddess, Emrys, can defend herself."
"No, of course not, but..."
"Can she though?" Mithian interrupts. She's been thinking about this since they started talking, and she wonders. Everyone is looking at her like she's the one missing it, but she really thinks she's on to something. "No, hear me out. Think about it. We all agree that Arthur has wanted Merlynn from the moment he saw her?" Universal nods. "Percival, you've also wanted her, correct?"
Percival sinks into his seat, blushing madly, eyes to the floor. "Um..."
"Don't be shy, Perce. I'm trying to make a point."
"Uh..." He scratches the back of his head wishing to avoid this confession, but he surrenders. No use denying it. "Yes, yes I have."
"Have you ever touched her or come in contact with her in any way?"
He thinks for a moment and realizes that no, he hasn't. He wags his head.
"Okay. Remember how Merlynn has that whole shock thing for men who want her sexually?" The friends gesture for her to continue already aware of Merlynn's personal security system. "Well, Arthur has touched her several times. I've seen him. I've seen him hug her. Yet, with him... no sparks."
"I don't get it, Mithian. We've already established he wants her, so what's your point about the sparks?"
"My point, Sefa, is that is the point." The perplexed faces require more explanation. "Here's my theory. Merlynn was literally made for Arthur from magic itself, right? Her magic is for him, to protect him at all costs." Some appear as if they're starting to guess where this is going. "Therefore, her magic cannot hurt him. It won't. That's why no sparks." She relaxes back into her seat, quite proud of her deduction skills. A moment passes as they ponder her words.
"Yeah, but wait a minute. Even without her magic Merlynn is hardly defenseless. I've seen her on the mats and with weapons. She is highly skilled. She took down that assailant at the club without magic." Leon respects all of his pseudo-sister's talents. Her magic is just one of many.
"Yes, but remember, her whole purpose is to protect Arthur no matter what. Which means, if I'm right, not even she can hurt him."
"You're saying her magic would protect him over herself?" Elena is getting more alarmed by the minute.
"Merlynn is immortal. Why would her magic need to protect her? You saw when she turned into her pure form. She is magic itself, and as she said, with unlimited power. Her magic isn't for her. As magic incarnate, it is ALL for him."
"So, what I hear you saying is that all powerful Merlynn, Goddess Emrys, appointed guardian of the prophesied savior, is completely defenseless against Arthur. Is that right?" Elena has all kinds of warning bells.
"What she's saying is the Emrys' one and only weakness is the Once and Future King himself." Gwaine's expression is uncharacteristically grave.
"Look, it's just a theory. I mean, if you think about it, it is kind of far-fetched, an immortal Goddess vulnerable to a mortal human. It's absurd!" But by the countenance and somber mood of the friends, it is clear they believe Mithian's theory is highly plausible, maybe even probable. That is... except for one.
"Hold it! Why are you all looking so worried? Even if you believe Mithian's theory is true, which I think is preposterous by the way, that would mean you actually believe my brother would hurt her. You, his friends. You heard him. He loves her more than life itself. He'd sooner die." A few moments of deep thought pass until Gwen speaks.
"Morgana's right, everyone."
"Thank you!"
"This is Arthur we're talking about: lovable, caring, heroic, noble Arthur. I don't think Merlynn, herself, would appreciate how we're speaking of her King." She peers around to everyone and rises from her seat. "With that, I think I'm gonna go find her. This day is about getting to know her and games and fun. Lancelot, would you take care of my dishes please?"
"Certainly, love."
"Thank you." With a smile and chaste kiss on the cheek, she's off to search for her friend. Gwen said it as confidently as she could. She feels she owes it to her lifelong friend to think the best. But as with the rest of them, she can't help the gnawing feeling in the back of her head that this is going to end very badly. And oddly enough, its the Goddess who seems to be in trouble.
--
It is the sitting room she found Arthur in earlier. And there in the corner is a large, comfy recliner, each section substantially stuffed with fluff, perfect for her needs. She races to her hideaway, flinging herself into the chair, burrowing herself in, curling up tight, and protecting herself with the cushions she's sunken into.
She doesn't understand what just happened. There was something in Arthur's eyes. She can't put her finger on it, but it was there... Hunger?... no. Lust?... no. Flirtation?... no. Well, she doesn't know what it was, but why does she feel like she's somehow been unfaithful to Mordred? Whatever it was, it was in some fashion deeper than all of those, and it scares the hell out of her! It's like he went to a place he should not have been, while at the same time it's where only he belongs. What is that about? Why is it like she's discovered new territory she didn't know was there?
She needs to call Mordred. With a wave of her hand her phone rests in her palm once more. She pulls up Skype and locates his name, then hits video phone.
"Hey you? You normally call me this early when something's wrong, so what's up?"
Thank goddess her parents got Mordred an iPhone. It's like he's on standby anytime she needs to talk. If she had to wait for him to go to one of the compound's computers every time, they'd never speak, and she needs him, especially now. Should she tell him? She didn't really ring him to tell him. She just needed to connect with him again, feel their own bond formed this life, instead of by the Goddess fifteen hundred years ago. She loves her warlock. She does. So is this hiding it from him? Does she really want to start down a road of lies with her beloved? This is a different situation, though. It is vital that Mordred and Arthur have a positive relationship. Something like this might start forming a wedge. And that literally can mean life or death for one, if not both of them. No, she won't tell him. It's for his own good after all.
"Nothing really. Feeling a little unsettled, that's all. We had our whole meet and greet thing and they know everything for the most part, so I guess I'm just feeling a bit exposed. Oh! Speaking of that, we had a talk about my clothes. In this society, Mordred, they don't work. I don't mean they're not effective. That's actually the problem. They're too effective. I could cause issues for couples and even break-ups. Also, most women find them offensive. I don't want to ever hurt anyone."
"No, of course not. It's fine, love, I've told you before you could honor me wearing a paper bag." She shyly grins. "You do what you have to to feel comfortable, Dragonlady. I don't feel slighted in the least." They both touch their screen with open palms, her for connection, him showing approval.
They spend the rest of their conversation discussing happenings in Ambrosia, particularly the handfasting taking place in a few weeks between their two closest friends. Merlynn was hoping to invite her new friends. Her whole compound would love to meet Arthur! But if they are uncomfortable with how she dresses, they definitely won't like Ambrosia. She can just ask them and leave it up to them.
When they finally hang up, Merlynn feels connected with Mordred again. He is her betrothed and loves him dearly. But she still feels rattled and needs to talk to someone, and she knows exactly whom.
Ring... ring... ring...
"Hello?"
"Hi mum."
"Merlynn! It's so good to hear from you! How is it? How have your classes been? We haven't really talked much. Thanks for the recording, though." Merlynn hears her mother chortling through the phone. "It was hilarious. We had a whole community reveal party. You're everyone's hero, you know? In more ways than one."
"Mum, slow down."
Merlynn's mum can hear her daughter's distress. "What's wrong, cariad?"
"Something's... happened... or maybe not happened. I don't know."
"Merlynn, if it's enough to upset you, then it is something. Now, tell your mum what's wrong."
"That's just it. I don't know what's wrong! There was a moment... between Arthur and I that uh... I don't know how to describe it. It went past friendly. It wasn't like lovers. It was deeper."
"Of course it was."
What? What does her mum know that she doesn't? "What do you mean, 'of course'?"
"Merlynn." She surprised her daughter could be so naive. "Both of you are literal soulmates. Of course you would have a deeper attachment. I mean you can't get much closer than the other half of yourself!"
"I understand that. It's just... I'm engaged to Mordred. I feel like what Arthur and I had in that moment should be his. Yet at the same time, I feel like it already belongs to my King."
"Love, you have a different situation going on than others. You will always have a stronger relationship with your soulmate. Mordred knows this. Arthur will go deeper than Mordred could ever dream. You may actually fall in love with him too. Again, your betrothed is fully aware of this possibility. He's not against it at all, because he knows what you both are set to accomplish. As long as he always has at least part of your heart, he's happy. Think about it from his perspective. I know you don't like acknowledging your status, but you need to to understand this. You are an actual Goddess, Merlynn, with unlimited power. You are immortal and magic incarnate. You have a soulmate, a destined man you are set to be with forever. And in this lifetime, you CHOOSE to love Mordred even when you love Arthur too. I think he would even be fine with one of those... uh, what'd you call it? those um... open relationships! Or polyamorous, whatever. He might even be expecting it. You could have just had Arthur, but you chose to pick him too. To be in love with him too. You've been with Arthur in some way or another for fifteen hundred years, but for this lifetime, you chose to include him. I promise you, cariad, he is honored just to be part of your life. He will happily be in second place just as long as he has one. Understand?"
Wow! She never thought of it like that. In fact, when she thinks about all their time together, that is the impression he gives. 'He's your soulmate, Dragonlady.' 'You are destined to be together forever, my love.' 'Go have your date with destiny, beloved.' 'I am just honored to be your betrothed.' How could she not have seen it?! He's been encouraging a relationship with Arthur from the beginning!
"You know, I didn't tell him what happened. I was afraid it would cause animosity between them. Do you think I should?"
Her mother is quiet for a moment. "Yes, I do. I think you need to hear what I've been saying straight from him for your own peace of mind. You don't have to be so careful with your heart, Merlynn. Especially with your soulmate. Let it go where it goes, whatever comes natural. Just remain faithful to your betrothed, which should be easy because of the suppresants. If you both choose to open your relationship to the King, then do. You have enough to be concerned about. You don't need to have to worry about restraining yourself from any romantic inclinations."
Merlynn feels lighter. If this is true, then she is free to love them both, romantically. She needs to call Mordred back!
"Now, I believe you have a phone call to make, so I'm going to let you go. But don't be a stranger, you hear?"
"I hear. You know me so well, mum."
"Of course I do. It's in the job description. Love you!" And the phone clicks off.
"Love you too... so much," she says quietly to no one.
She pulls up Mordred's Skype address and swipes the video phone once again.
"Twice in an hour? Now, I'm concerned."
"I need to talk to you. I didn't tell you about it earlier, because I felt... awkward, and I was worried it would cause problems between you and Arthur."
Mordred is confused. "Me and the King? Why?" What on Earth would make him have a problem with his King...? Unless he hurt Merlynn! If he hurt her, they are definitely gonna have issues!
Merlynn sees the confusion transform into anger. She knows her love so well, knows exactly what he's thinking. "No, nothing like that. I'm fine." She takes a deep breath. Here goes nothing. Goddess she hopes her mum was right. "It's just... Arthur and I shared a moment."
"A moment. Okaay? Go on."
"It wasn't like anything happened. It wasn't even the words that were said. It's... well... we shared a look. It wasn't romantic or lustful or anything. It was deeper than that, though."
Mordred is eyeing her starting to put two and two together of what Merlynn's trying to say, and she's the one who's missing it. "Deeper? Uh huh. Okaay?"
"I feel like it was wrong, and I wasn't being faithful!"
A fond smile and crinkling eyes form across Mordred's face. "You sweet, wonderful woman. Goddess, I love you." He's grinning and talking to himself. Then he looks up and gazes direct into his beloved's eyes. "Merlynn, he's your soulmate. Of course you're going to have moments and 'looks.' I'd be surprised if you don't have more than that."
"But you're my betrothed!" Like her mother said, she needs to hear it direct from him. She doesn't want to put words in his mouth.
"Yes, I'm your betrothed; he is your destiny. I am your choice; he is your fated. I knew romance between you was likely a possibility, and I'm fine with it. Doesn't mean we won't be married. Doesn't mean you'll stop loving me. Him, you'll be with forever, but for this lifetime you CHOOSE to include me." With tears in his eyes he has to get through to her. "Goddess, Merlynn, my love, my beloved, my Dragonlady. You can't imagine how blessed I feel. I mean... you know your power means nothing to me. I love Merlynn; Emrys just comes with the package. Well, you, Merlynn, an actual Goddess, after centuries of your immortal life choose this lifetime to marry me and include me in your prophesied destiny with our King, the Once and Future King, my savior and savior for all our people. My destiny was to kill Arthur, but because of you, I'm no longer the villain of this story but one of the heroes. You're not only giving me part of yourself and part of your heart; you're giving me a new legacy. There are no words, Merlynn, no words to even touch on how grateful I am to you and our King." They both are crying at this point. "So go and love our King, Dragonlady. Go and have your moments and looks. Go and have your romance, my love. Once we are married he will join us." He realizes what he said and clarifies. "Not like that! I have no desire to join you in bed with him. I mean no offense, but yuck! I love our King, but I don't LOVE our King." Now they're both giggling going from serious to humorous. "No, I mean I'm willing to share. I expect to share. We have an odd situation, I grant you that, but it doesn't mean there's not enough love to go around. I mean isn't love the most powerful magic there is? And you are magic incarnate. If you can't love two people, who can? All I ask is never stop loving me. Never forget me."
Merlynn touches the screen. "Never." They exchange devoted tender smiles as their eyes once again fill with unshed tears. But something occurs to Merlynn. "One thing I don't understand, though. If you've always been open to Arthur and I having a relationship, then why has the clan always pushed so hard that the prophecy doesn't imply romance?"
"Because it doesn't. You could have romance, but you don't have to. Wait a minute. Did you think the clan was forcing you to have a platonic relationship with the King?" She nods. "Oh Merlynn, no. The clan has always been about giving you the choice. If you thought the prophecy meant romance, then that would take your choice away. Yes, we were an arranged marriage, but that was only because they wanted to save me from a different path." He hates thinking about the road destiny set him on. "They wanted to save the King's life. They wanted to save you heartache. I mean let's be honest, Merlynn; you're Emrys. It's not like you couldn't end this in a heartbeat. You know the spell for the suppresants. There's nothing stopping you from ending it and running off and marrying the King, leaving me in the dust." But then he has a horrifying thought. "Unless... unless you still think I might kill our King." Goddess, he thinks he might be sick. "I'd like to think you're still with me because you're in love with me." He straightens and says it almost professionally? "If not, then I release you from your obligation. I promise you our King is safe from me. In fact..." He mumbles something under his breath and his eyes flare gold. "I, Mordred of Ambrosia hereby swear on my magic that the Once and Future King, aka. Arthur Pendragon, will face no harm by my hand. Triple Goddess, let it be so." And his eyes glow gold once more. "There. There's now nothing forcing you to be with me. You're free." His head drops and he feels like he can't breathe.
"No, Mordred! No! I don't want that! I do choose to be with you. I never thought you would still kill Arthur! You can ask anyone in the group. I even said that your part of the prophecy was successfully thwarted. I'm with you because I choose to be. Because I love you. Because I am hopelessly in love with you!" A grin is spreading wider and wider across his face, but she's not noticing. "I look forward to every time we talk. I can't wait until we see each other again. You always make me feel better. In four years, my hand is yours, Mordred. My virtue is yours. I may have romance with our King. After we're married, I may share his bed. But YOU, my love, will always be my husband in this life! Please don't leave me!" She needs him to understand! If he thinks she doesn't really love him, he'll leave her! She can't have that. Her King may have part of her soul, but Mordred will always have part of her heart.
"Shh, shh, shh. Calm down, love. I'm not going anywhere. I will be here for as long as you'll have me."
"As long as you are on this Earth, I will want you."
He beams. "Then for this lifetime, I am yours."
Goddess, she did not expect this was where the conversation was headed. She is so in love with this man... Well, you know what she means. She gives him a brilliant smile.
"So, now that we've established we are both completely besotted with each other and madly in love, and that I have no issue at all with you also pursuing a romantic relationship with our King, who is your soulmate by the by..." He gives her a playful knowing look. "...do you feel better?"
"Goddess, I feel great! See, I told you you always make me feel better!"
"Well good, I'm glad to be of service. Now, don't you think it might be time to rejoin your party?"
"Yeah, probably. Maybe, call you later?"
"I'll be here, Dragonlady."
"I love you, beloved." She blows him a kiss.
"And I, you." And with a loving smile and touch to the screen, he signs off.
She's free. She's free to make her own choices, free to love who she loves, free to be Merlynn. Mordred's right. The suppresants were her decision and she can easily remove them. Their betrothal was never about thwarting the prophecy. It was about saving both Merlynn and Mordred and subsequently, the King. It's brilliant! The clan wasn't trying to force her into anything. Mordred wasn't trying to force her into anything. What destiny and fate tried to take from her, her clan and Mordred gave back. The magical community would probably have killed Mordred and coerced her into marrying the King. All they care about is The Emrys and Once and Future King fulfilling the prophecy. But her clan cares about Merlynn and Mordred. They haven't written them off as just Magic come to save them and Arthur's bane. They love Merlynn the person, Mordred the person. Goddess, no one can say Ambrosia isn't faithful to her own! Everything was about giving her her own choice, giving her free will. Even Mordred never tried to force himself on her. Goddess, he just swore on his magic he would never harm Arthur just so she wouldn't be manipulated! They have given her a precious gift, a gift she will not squander. Where her life has been ruled by prophecy and destiny and fate, her clan... no, her family... have given her the most precious gift of all... choice.
Merlynn relaxes and lounges in the cozy furniture, no longer holding herself tight in protection. She doesn't need protection. She's Emrys. She's the protector. Mordred loves her no matter what. She never has to try and restrain herself. He has left her untethered, unconfined... and free to fly. With a broad, toothy grin Merlynn's eyes glow gold, and a wave of butterflies flow from her hand like water.
That's how Gwen finds her, giddy, in the corner of the sitting room, butterflies circling her like she's the classic Disney princess. "Oh Merlynn..." The brunette marvels at her roommate. "You seem to be feeling better."
"Gwen... I feel fantastic!"
--
Arthur carries his dishes into the kitchen and tosses them in the sink, just barely breaking them. Why are his friends being so difficult?! How can they not see what he does? Merlynn running out like she did was a good sign. They shared something in that moment, and it definitely wasn't a 'friend zone' territory kind of something. She was scared because she is feeling... more, despite any suppresants. She is starting to have feelings for him. He smiles to himself as he washes and rinses.
He doesn't clean. He never cleans. They have staff for that. He's so ecstatic about the direction things are turning, he's doing it mindlessly and dare he say, enjoying it? He'd probably enjoy deep scrubbing the loos right now. Merlynn is his! It's only a matter of time before she's his in every way.
With his new found confidence in the future of his relationship with his witch... no, his Goddess... Arthur feels he can start thinking about other things again, specifically the magic movement. It's one of the items he has on the agenda for the day. He's hoping they'll all be a part of it. When they were all listing off their individual professions or future professions as it be, he realized within their group alone, they have such a wide range of influence. They have medical, corporate, and legal. They have royalty and nobility. They have law enforcement and tech. They even have university sports with four of them being on the footie team. But most of all, they have magic. Strong magic! A high priestess and a bona fide Goddess! He couldn't put a better council together for his revolution if he paid for it. And they're his friends! Friends he trusts with his life. They really are perfect. Arthur continues to clean and ruminate about his future council. He considers their individual positions and roles. He devises some ideas of how each of them can take advantage of their circles and maximize their influence within them. He's deep in thought when he hears his sister stroll in with her hands full of dishes and whatever wouldn't fit floating around her.
"Well, you seem happier then when you left. What has you all smiles?"
"Oh, just a project I'm working on? I see you're starting to flex some magic muscle."
"Yeah, just something I've learned. Convenient." He nods in agreement. She's watching as he scrubs her counters and soaks pots and pans. "Must be some project. I don't think I've ever seen you hold a dish flannel."
"I have, just not regularly." He tosses the rag in the sink and turns to face her, leaning into the counter and crossing his arms. "I actually wanted to talk to everyone about it, the project I mean. I'm hoping everyone will be a part of it. Where is everybody, anyway?"
"They're all scattered here and there. We can call everyone to the living room if you want. But first, I want to talk to you. I brought everything in here myself, so we can have some privacy."
"Okay. Go on then."
"You've been in here thinking of your project, so does that mean you've stopped thinking of Merlynn?"
"I'm no longer worrying over my situation with Merlynn. I know eventually she will be mine in both heart and soul."
Morgana tries to decide how she's going to handle this. She doesn't want him to know how his supposed friends were talking about him. It would really hurt him they'd ever think such a thing. But she needs him to know at least a general idea, so she can protect him. "Listen, if you want to talk about your feelings for Merlynn and your destiny, you can always talk to me, but I think you should tone things down with the group. Don't sound so possessive and jealous. Frankly, you seem a bit mad. I think if you had other subjects to talk about it'd go a long way to easing their concerns. This project seems like just what you need to calm people down."
"Good, because I am serious about it. In fact, if we could pull everyone together now, I'd like to tell them all about it."
"That's fine, Arthur, but I'm being serious. Don't blow off what I'm saying. Look, you both will be getting your memories back in a few months. I know that if I remembered fifteen hundred years of lifetimes with my destined lover, regardless of sexual attraction, I'd still be welcoming romance over friendship. That's all you have to do, a few months. Can you do that?"
"Yes, I can do that. I'm not blowing you off. I promise I hear you. And yes, I will stop with all the Merlynn talk. Except to you of course." He reaches for her. "Thanks sis. Thanks for always being there for me." He gives her a chaste kiss and walks out.
Well, that went easier than she thought. Hopefully, this project will be just what the group needs. She hears Arthur calling everyone together. Glancing around, she sees the kitchen is still somewhat messy, so she starts working her own magic. She may not be able do it all like Merlynn, but she knows some spells. It's certainly faster than the traditional way, and she doesn't want to take long. She's curious as to what has her brother so excited, besides Merlynn obviously. Once she's finished, by the cacophony of voices, she can tell the whole group's probably already in there and waiting on her. Well, mustn't keep them waiting. Project 'get Arthur's mind off Merlynn' is on.
--
Arthur gathers everyone in the living room. He notices Merlynn and Gwen coming down the stairs with butterflies? He's not the only one who sees them.
"Oooh, oooh, oooh, Merlynn, can I see?" Elena skitters to the stairs to meet her roommates and all their winged friends. The butterflies flutter about them almost in orbital revolutions circling Merlynn. The blonde stares with childlike wonder at the sight. "So pretty."
She's got that right. Arthur watches all the little creatures soar around his Goddess framing her in glittering colors. Her beauty knows no bounds surrounded by such life. With a quick glimpse to the room he knows he needs to be more subtle with his admiration. He promised Morgana he'd subdue some of his... passion for his witch, and that's what he'll do. He clears his throat. "Ahem... Merlynn?" She glances his direction. "Could I talk to you for a moment?"
"Sure Arthur." She meets him at the bottom of the stairs and they turn the corner to prop themselves against the wall inside the corridor.
Gwen watches as Merlynn and Arthur walk away. Her roommate never told her what happened, just that she had spoken with Mordred and her mum. But she's never seen Merlynn so happy, so they couldn't have been ordinary conversations. Yes, she was thrilled about meeting Arthur, when she wasn't freaking out anyway, but that was excitement, not happiness. Merlynn seems so much lighter now, carefree. She hopes whatever Arthur says doesn't burden the witch once more.
"What's up?" Merlynn's eyeing her King leaning nervously into the wall. She feels so liberated knowing that she can let this relationship go wherever it flows, wherever her heart leads, and not be afraid of losing Mordred. She stretches to touch Arthur's forearm. "Arthur? You wanted to talk to me?"
God those eyes! Those eyes peeking up through long ebony lashes, softly asking for him. "Ahem, yes. Uh, I just... I wanted to say if I made you uncomfortable earlier I'm sorry." She smiles. She smiles that radiant smile that puts the sun to shame. And she's still touching him!
"Thank you, Arthur, but we're good. No worries. Now, why don't we go join everyone else? We all want to hear what you're going to say." She squeezes his wrist, leans in and gives him a chaste kiss on the cheek before she heads back to the living room. How is it that the closer she becomes with her King, the closer she feels to Mordred? She's just so blessed he's granted her the freedom of her heart. He's genuinely the finest there is, and she will ever be grateful to her clan.
She kissed him! She kissed him. There wasn't that same kind of moment they had at the table. It wasn't some deep experience, but it was more than friends. It was definitely more! Oh yes, this is only the beginning.
"So Merlynn... you seem brighter." Even without all the butterflies, Mithian could tell as soon as she saw the witch she had been unburdened somehow.
"Yes, let's just say I've had an enlightening conversation with my mum and beloved."
Arthur has already arrived for the question and is currently settling into Morgana's loveseat when Merlynn answers. Which has him stopping short. What? What could she have been enlightened about? Could they be freeing her to love Arthur? But that disputes with her pet name. She called Mordred beloved again. And the way she says it. It's like she's... in love. He battles a face of disgust. Control yourself, Pendragon. You're here right now to change the lives of the magical people. You can despair over Merlynn later. "Is everyone comfortable, because I have an idea I wanted to talk to you about. See if you might join me."
"What's the idea, princess?" Gwaine nuzzles into his girlfriend's thigh at her feet while she's fallen into the sofa.
"Well, I want to start a movement to change opinions of the magical people. It would have to be behind the scenes, and we'll have to be strategic with our plans to not get into legal issues. I've been realizing more and more that my father's initiatives and goals are ridiculous to say the least. His latest you heard on the recording, actual world domination." Arthur rolls his eyes at the thought. "Unfortunately, he does have supporters and the law is on his side. Now, Merlynn, I think on Friday you made some major headway with the prime minister. She agreed with everything you said. In fact, it seemed like they were things she's wanted to say herself for a long time, but, for whatever reason, was afraid to. I think she's been weary of my father's following, but with an actual immortal Goddess on our side, she's gained the courage to break out of her shell. I want to subtly start influencing the masses, so that when I am king and abolish these absurd laws and policies there will be little to no backlash. As we gain more favor with the people we can get bolder with our efforts. Who knows? Maybe if we get enough supporters my father will be forced to reverse it all himself. It's like Merlynn told him. The only reason my father has power is because the people give it to him. With enough citizens on our side he'll either change or lose their loyalty." Merlynn is glowing with pride at him. Morgana's eyeing him curiously.
"Fuck yeah, I'm in!" Elena was kind of a certainty.
"You definitely have me, princess. You know I'm always looking to cause trouble for the monarchy. Power to the people!"
"Of course. I would always help Morgana and Merlynn. I mean... not that I wouldn't without them. I think it's a good cause, regardless. But with them... it's more personal. Not that I..."
"It's okay, Gwen. We know what you mean."
"It's the right thing to do."
"I second Lancelot."
"Well if Percy's willing to break out of his shell, I'm in."
"If Mithian's in, I might as well be. Besides, even if we crash and burn it'll be a hell of a lot of fun to give Uther a run for his money."
"Well, shit if you even got Sefa to join, I must, right?"
"Do you even have to ask? I've always been your first knight. Why stop now?"
Arthur looks at Merlynn. "I'm yours, Arthur, you know that. Just tell me where you want me." Oh God. He swallows. Finally, he looks to his sister.
"Are you kidding me? I'm a fucking high priestess. Isn't it a given?"
Now she's eyeing him, and he doesn't like the smug grin.
"One thing I want to know. What sparked this whole mission of yours? I've been trying to light a fire under your arse for years. I mean, I knew you supported us, but why all of a sudden are you ready to take Uther down?"
"Don't you think it was maybe Merlynn, Morgana?" Leon thinks that's obvious. But the princess is still pushing.
"No, I don't think that's it. It's not, is it Arthur?"
Arthur barely wags his head. His eyes have dropped, his face is red and he's twiddling his thumbs.
"Oh now I'm intrigued." Elyan is leaning in squirming in his seat. "He's red as a tomato."
"Okay, okay. Morgana's right. It wasn't Merlynn. I wish it was. I've always planned on changing things when I was king. It never occurred to me to start changing things now. I didn't feel like I had any power until I was on the throne. But, uh... I had a bit of... inspiration." Now they all are eager with anticipation. "Iron Man," he mumbles.
"Wait a minute, did I just hear you say Iron Man?!" Morgana is never going to let him live this down.
"Yes." They brayed. They shrieked. They howled. They roared. All at Arthur's expense. Even Merlynn! Loyal to a fault Merlynn. Aren't we the same? Doesn't that mean they're laughing at her too? Damn harpy. "Go ahead and laugh it up. I actually have a legitimate reason." They all start to calm down enough for him to start explaining. "I was watching one of the Marvel movies. And I just started thinking about how cool the superheroes were, how they saved the day. Then it occurred to me we have real life superheroes in magic users. We just are tying their hands behind their back. We're taking Iron Man's suit, or Hawkeye's bow, or the Captain's shield. It's stupid and foolish, and my father's the biggest fool of all." They all are quiet contemplating what Arthur's said until Merlynn interrupts the silence.
"Oh goddess, I thought the same thing! You can ask the girls! We were watching a movie. There was a metal man, a green man, a man dressed like a flag in it. They were fighting a man with horns." This is fascinating. It's like she even shares a mind with Arthur.
There's snickering throughout the group.
"I think she means the Avengers, mate."
"Brilliant deduction, Elyan," Leon gibes.
"That was it! I was watching the first Avengers and had this... epiphany."
"Yeah, and all it took was a billionaire genius." Arthur glares at Morgana, but it's all in good fun.
Merlynn's mind is still elsewhere. "Don't you you find this incredible?!" She doesn't understand how he isn't getting the implications of this revelation. "I mean... we already share a soul. It could be we share a mind as well. If that's true, then what else could we share? How deep do we really go? How else are we connected?"
Oh, I dont know. Maybe the heart, maybe the body, maybe the... bed. His focus has been on her, but he has to look away. "I don't know, Merlynn. I guess we'll just discover it in time... together." His eyes are drawn to hers once more. Her grin is infectious.
"I guess we will."
Their gaze seems to be caught right now, like a tractor beam eyes to eyes.
"Ahem... uh, princess? Hate to break up your... moment there, but what'd you say we table this discussion for another time? I mean I was promised some games here, and I think after all this seriousness, we should have some fun. And I don't know about you, but I could really use a drink."
"I second that! I'm spent emotionally, and I want to get thoroughly drunk. You all remember where the games and alcohol are. Help yourself."
"That's fine. I just ask for people to be coming up with ideas for the next time. I don't want to wait on this."
The rest of the evening is spent with alcohol and games. Everyone's free to see Merlynn cut loose and joke around, despite not having alcohol. She quickly becomes one of them. She and Arthur share more moments, but she also spends some of the time gushing about Mordred. Needless to say, by the time Arthur leaves he's thoroughly confused. If she were any other girl he would say she's leading him on or playing with him, but this is Merlynn, sweet, innocent Merlynn. She wouldn't even know how. One thing's for sure, he needs more information.
And she lives with two women who love to talk.
5. I love all the characters and I wanted a story with all of them in it. They each play significant roles and have distinct personalities. Probably why this turned into the monster it did.
Fun fact: Merlynn's culture was not my own idea. It is loosely based on a reality series I saw once.
All of Merlynn's clothes throughout the story are real outfits I found online. I even went to some of the websites and used their descriptions.