The Camelot Twelve learn how influential they've been in history and how paramount they are for the future. Mordred has a surprise that changes everything.

I love Mordred!

"Everyone all right? I'm sorry about the nausea. I forgot to mention it." Merlynn knows teleportation can cause serious motion sickness. It appears the malady hit half the group. Leon and Sefa are gagging offside; Gwaine is holding Elena, who appears might pass out; Lancelot and Gwen are both struck with queasiness and collapse to the ground as soon as they arrive; finally, Elyan is swaying while cupping his mouth and could actually be a faint shade of green. Merlynn waves her hand and a sparkling gust of magic blows between them. "There. Is that better?"

"Much. Thank you."

Wow, gratitude from Sefa. Merlynn's honored. "All right guys, come on in and meet the fam'." She gestures to the home in front of her and excitedly dashes to the door. The group follow suit.

Upon entrance, they first notice a middle-aged women approaching, obviously Merlynn's mother. She's kept in shape, probably to maintain the Ambrosian values earning honor for her husband. She's not nearly as risqué as Merlynn has been, but she's definitely not frumpy. Her top is a loose peasant style blouse worn off the shoulders, tied in the center of her neckline forming a teardrop opening. She's paired it with dark wash skinny jeans and knee high boots.

"Merlynn! Come in, come in all of you. Our house is your house. Balinore! Get out here! Merlynn's home! If you haven't already guessed, I'm Merlynn's mother, but you can call me Hunith." As the entire party trickles in her eyes spread wider and wider. "My, my. There is a lot of you."

"I told you twelve, mum."

"I know, I know. I have seating for everyone, but I was hoping you could make it more comfortable. Hard kitchen chairs are not really worthy of these guests."

"They're fine with it, I promise you, but I will do as you ask." Merlynn winds her way to the living room where she magics cushioning and reclines the chairs that need it. "There. Now everyone can lean back and have a comfy backside."

Her mother swats her on her bicep. "Silly girl... Come on in and have a seat. Make yourselves comfortable. I'm going to bring in some tea. If you would prefer coffee I can bring that in as well... Actually, Merlynn can you...?" She twiddles her fingers.

"Just mugs or are they already poured?"

"Only mugs. They're still in the cupboard. I'll go get the tea and coffee and just pour it in here. Be right back." And she zips away.

Merlynn views the packed room. She first needs to determine how many cups they'll need. "Raise your hand if you would like something to drink." She spots roughly three quarters. With a swift flick or her wrist cups and saucers materialize in their laps.

The hostess returns carrying two carafes. "Who would like tea?" Most of the ones who want beverages prefer tea. The rest are coffee drinkers. After she pours all their glasses Hunith sets the near empty vessels on a buffet table along the back wall.

Merlynn notices her mother is holding her chin recalling missing items. She looks to her daughter pleadingly. The witch rolls her eyes knowing exactly what the woman had forgotten. Soon a pitcher of milk manifests in Hunith's hands while a canister of sugar appears in the raven's. They distribute both according to everyone's wishes until all are served.

As the group savors their cuppa and java, they eye one another speaking through expressions of friends who've known each other for years. They find Hunith may not look like a typical mother, but she is the epitome of the classic loving mum with her hospitality and dotingness on her guests and child.

"I baked biscuits, muffins, and brownies for later. I have a table set up in the back there, where you can help yourselves."

Yep, she's a classic. Balinore finally arrives. Merlynn's da looks the perfect match for her mum; fairly fit, rugged, and handsome. Also tall, somewhere between Leon and Percival.

"Well hello everyone! I'm Merlynn's father, but you can call me Balinore."

Both of Merlynn's parents seem to be equally social and friendly, just like her.

"I must say it is quite the honor to meet you all. The Once and Future King Arthur and Knights of the Round Table."

He gives an all inclusive bow to the room. Hunith joins him at his side while he greets everyone personally.

"You must be the noble, Sir Lancelot, as you sit by this lovely woman who could only be Lady Guinevere, known for incredible kindness." He shakes Lance's hand and kisses Gwen's. Hunith, who's arm in arm with Balinore smiles and bows her head in respect.

"Um, yes. Thank you. I'm also one of Merlynn's roommates."

"Pleasure." He then turns his gaze to Gwen's left. "And you definitely are the fun loving brother, Sir Elyan." Balinore reaches to properly greet the knight.

"That's me. Good to meet you." He's a little tongue-tied with this couple who seem almost in awe.

"Likewise." Balinore spots the tall ginger and makes his way over, tugging Hunith with him. He also shakes his hand. "And here must be the loyal First Knight, Sir Leon, posture and countenance reflecting leadership and nobility."

"Thank you, sir. I work with Merlynn in the Guard. She is quite the dynamo."

"I wouldn't doubt it. We are certainly proud of her," he says while looking at his daughter, who delights in his approval. Then he sights someone across the room. "Ah, the gentle giant, a man with few words but a big heart. The one and only, Sir Percival." He welcomes him with the same saluting gesture as the others.

Percy shyly clears his throat. "Uh... yeah. Thank you."

Finally Balinore zeroes in on the last knight resting on the floor. He edges towards him. "Sir Gwaine, the comic relief, yet secretly wise knight." Merlynn's father reaches to bestow Gwaine a respectful hello. "It's an honor."

"Nice to meet you too, sir, but trust me, we are just as honored. The parents chosen as stewards over Magic. I'd say you have extraordinary roles yourself."

"Merlynn has always been our pride and joy. We are truly grateful to the Triple Goddess." The rogue nods with a grin. Balinore backs away to speak to all of the visitors. "You men should be proud. You are chosen, handpicked by the Goddess to serve directly under the greatest king in history."

They take a moment to ponder his words.They had no idea they had such significance. The first knight ends their musings.

"Uh, Balinore?"

"Yes, Leon?"

"How is it that you know so much about us?"

"We know you as the whole clan knows you. You are reincarnated souls. The core of who you are never changes."

It's a mind-altering revelation. Throughout all of history they have maintained their status, have always participated in making the world a better place.

Except for one, who thinks her core might not be a good repeat. She's still not confident she's doing what's right this lifetime. Is she still the villain? Can she even escape it? Merlynn's father must be realizing her thoughts, judging by his eyes burning a hole through hers.

"High Priestess, Morgana. You needn't worry. Later history shows you are a reformed woman, as is your sister. Unlike your first life, you were her inspiration. In your core, before you lost your way, you showed a compassion that has been matched by no other."

Morgana dips her head hiding the tears forming in her eyes. She is so relieved her nefarious ways died with her first life, and now she's known for her compassion. She influenced her sister and became a paragon, one of the heroes. Maybe this is a sign she's made the right decision? Goddess, she hopes so.

"Now Merlynn said the rest of you ladies are unaware where you fit in this story. I assure you your inclusion is meant to be. Every lifetime you twelve gravitate to each other. There is a reason."

The three women are intrigued and earnestly listening, eager to hear their place in history.

"Many centuries ago during King Arthur's first reign there were several kingdoms in Albion. Now he, with the help of Emrys, united all of those kingdoms, but he had to start somewhere. And two very special women were his greatest allies and instrumental in his rise to High King. Balinore focuses on the blonde nestled into her boyfriend's leg at his feet. He stretches to raise one of her hands to his lips. "And you could only be Queen Elena, as your soul is a perfect match for Sir Gwaine. A vivacious woman with a free-willing spirit, who scoffs at nobility."

"Hell yeah! Gwaine, I'm a queen!" Chittering spreads throughout the room at their lovable blonde.

"You always have been, love." He squeezes her shoulders.

Balinore then looks at the woman across from her and kisses her hand as he did the first. "Then there is Queen Mithian, the perfect royal with propriety and grace, but fearless when it came to doing what was right for her people."

"That does sound like you, Mith."

The voice draws the man's attention. "Ah... Sefa. You are something special. The only commoner and never noble of the group. A woman that's a fighter, willing to stand against all she holds dear, surrounded by the enemy and traitor to her people. The most to lose, but gives it willingly in pursuit of peace and prosperity for all. You, my dear, set the bar high for many to aspire to." Soon her hand is held in his as he bestows the same respect for her as the queens.

Sefa is dumbstruck and she battles her own tears. She remembers that person. The woman with determination and lofty dreams to make a difference, been buried under grief and bitterness for a long time. Maybe it's time she rise again. "Thank you," is all she can muster out, but it has a deeper meaning. She has been locked away, but with remembering her true identity, Balinore has set her free.

The group is speechless. This man who doesn't know them, practically knows them better than they know themselves. But he's not finished. He and his wife now stand before the final member.

"And King Arthur, Once and Future King, soulmate to Magic themself, the greatest monarch that will ever exist. With his first reign he eliminates the caste system. Noble and commoner alike, considered equals with universal rights, privileges, and laws. Gives the people hope, the capability to better their situation and better themselves. Savior of magic and savior for all. This is why we bow to you, Arthur. This is why we honor you of all others. This is why your knights follow you. And this is why the Triple Goddess vehemently protects you. The Mother of Magic incarnate has entwined your souls for all eternity. No one that will ever exist is more worthy." They couple both drop to one knee facing their King and bow their head in reverence.

Arthur doesn't know what to say. These are Merlynn's parents. On one hand he struggles with bitterness over her arranged marriage. On the other, though... he's moved. Their deep, undying respect shakes him to his core.

After a moment their hosts rise and edge to the front of the room, so they can see everyone. "You twelve are a symbol, a symbol to the world. Together as one, a culmination of all that is good."

The mood is solemn and sacred. It feels as if their lives were meant for this moment, that destiny itself guided them here. None have ever felt so exalted or so revered. Ironically, it's humbling and makes them want to prove their worthiness for such an honor.

"Welcome to our home and welcome to Ambrosia. The Triple Goddess has truly blessed us with your presence."

Arthur feels like he should say something. He's the bona fide leader and needs to reciprocate their kindness. "Yes, well... I think Gwaine said it best. The honor is also ours. You raised Merlynn, a Goddess in her own right. We thank you for sending her to us."

"Oh Arthur, Merlynn has always been yours. We only prepared her for you. When she left us she was going home, her true home with you."

Mum, that is exactly what not to say. Merlynn knows those words are the kind that confuse her King and cause him suffering. "Ahem... yes, well mum, how 'bout we set up all the goodies, yeah?" Good, change the subject with sweets.

"Oh, I forgot I left the biscuits in the oven!" Hunith releases her husband and scrambles to the kitchen.

Merlynn's eyes glow, and the table from the back materializes in the center of the room. She lets them flare once more, and a stack of plates and utensils are soon resting on top.

"Oh Merlynn, thank you. I thought I was going to have to make a couple of trips." Her mother has already returned holding two platters of baked goods, which she promptly lays on the table. "All right everyone, dig in and help yourselves. Bal? You and I need to get ready."

"Hold on, Hun. Let me snag one of these brownies, and I'll be right behind you."

After Merlynn's parents leave, the Camelot Twelve are alone for the first time since they arrived in Ambrosia. "Uh, sorry. Da and mum can be a little... intense."

"No Merlynn, your family are perfectly lovely. Thank you for inviting us. Truly." Gwen gives her that kind, friendly smile she's known for.

"Definitely! I'm a queen! I never would've known. This is the best day ever!"

"Well, I'm glad all of you came. The clan is too."

"About that... how glad are we talking? We don't want to steal the bride and groom's thunder." Morgana knows she wants to be the center of attention on her wedding day and doesn't want to draw any of it away from the couple.

"Are you kidding? First, at the ceremony everyone's focus will be on the couple. Handfasting is sanctified, and we all know that. Definitely not a time for 'idol' worship. But at the reception, it's just one big party. Trust me, Will and Freya are thrilled to have all the reincarnated twelve in attendance, and they are going to be the envy of all the clan for years, I assure you."

Tap, tap, tap.

Merlynn's interrupted by the sound of a new arrival. She has a good idea who's here. "If you'll excuse me... Go ahead and eat, people." She motions to the food, then scurries to the door as fast as her feet will take her. Sure enough her beloved is on the other side. The raven flings the door open and vaults into his arms, nearly knocking him to the ground. "Mordred!"

"Oomf. Hello to you too, Dragonlady." He peels her off of him.

"Come on inside. Everyone wants to meet you." She starts to drag him through.

"Hold on, I have a surprise for you. Can you come out here?" She eyes him suspiciously but steps out on the porch.

"Let's sit down for a minute, okay. I want to talk to you." She complies and they're now side-by-side on the stairs. He takes a deep breath. He's been anticipating this moment and is a little nervous. "I've aged."

"I can see that. I appreciate it. I know my friends would be weirded out by your natural form."

"No, you don't understand. This isn't a glamour. I've been aged to be twenty years old. This is my natural self. The teenager would be the glamour."

Merlynn first stares at him in disbelief, then when it registers what he's saying, a broad, brilliant smile forms across her face, and she jumps to her feet in excitement. "Are you serious?! What? How!"

Mordred thrills at her reaction. "Come sit down, love, and I'll tell you." She can barely contain herself, but she plonks down next to him anyway. "It was the elders. They called me in for a meeting. I had no idea what they were going to say, and I was nervous. It's not everyday the compound's leaders request an audience, you know?" She nods in agreement. "Well, they told me they'd been watching me for a while and believe that my maturity far surpasses anyone my own age; socially, intellectually, emotionally. They think the Goddess has been advancing me faster than average to make me your equal match, that this is her way of blessing our union. They asked me if they could test their theory. Of course I said yes. I mean, who am I to stop the Goddess' plans, especially when those plans lead me to you." He lovingly grins and squeezes her hand. "So they did. They tested me, both through natural and magical means..." He pauses to ensure he has her complete attention. "Merlynn, I tested exactly twenty years old."

What? The witch is struck by what this means. Her betrothal is favored by Mother Goddess, herself. "Oh Mordred!" She can't help it. She crawls into his lap and circles him in her arms. "Wait a minute. That makes sense! I started feeling romantic feelings towards you a couple years ago! Before it was something else." She takes a moment considering her earlier life's feelings. "I'm not quite sure. It wasn't friendship or a brother or something. It was closer."

Mordred smiles at her words. He had romantic feelings earlier than that but he knew they were unrequited. The elders always said they would come in time. Obviously they were right. "That's not surprising actually. The elders said it started when I was six. By their calculations Mother has been advancing me a year and a half every year thereafter. Two years ago that would have put me between seventeen and eighteen. They said now that we're matched, though, my additional advancement should stop... You know, to keep us even."

She beams. "This is amazing Mordred. We've been blessed by the Goddess! She wants us together!" With tears in her eyes she elatedly squeezes her beloved at this discovery. Her feelings are absolutely reciprocated.

Merlynn doesn't realize at that moment she has an audience. They all knew it had to be Mordred that pulled their witch away and aren't surprised the two are intimately embraced out front. That is, except for one.

"Are you all right, brother?"

"She looks so happy, doesn't she?" He hates it, hates it with every fiber of his being, but it's plain to see. His soulmate is absolutely in love... with Mordred.

Morgana has to maintain her resolve. She can't stand Arthur's suffering, but this is for magic, and he wanted her help. It breaks her heart that these people will lose their daughter, but her fellow priestesses said Merlynn's memory will be wiped for all, so they shouldn't suffer. They won't know, but Morgana will. Can she live with herself? "She does. You can be happy too, Arthur. If she can find love in someone else then so can you."

"So I have a question."

Both siblings' attentions are drawn to the newly pronounced queen.

"You know what Merlynn did to your flat?" Mithian looks to the raven's two roommates. "If she can do that, why hasn't she done the same here?"

"I didn't take you for a snob, Mith."

"I'm not, Leon. I'm genuinely curious. I mean, with Merlynn the whole compound could live like royalty."

"No, I know what you mean. She actually explained it to Elena and I once. Ambrosians prefer the simple life. They all share everything and live off the land. A lot of old-fashioned bartering goes on. They aren't caught up in material things."

"It's kind of beautiful if you think about it, and poetic. Can't tell you how many times I've wished to escape all the hype and paparazzi, and just go somewhere and unplug." It actually sounds perfect to the priestess.

"How ya doin' there, princess?" The rogue approaches his friend, whose eyes are locked on the couple outside the window.

"Uh, better be careful, Gwaine. You have three queens here now. Princess ranks lower," Elyan reminds him.

"Nah. Arthur's always been princess."

The man turns to face his friend. "It's surreal, isn't it? I've been a prince all my life, and I have never felt so... venerated and glorified."

"Yeah, I hear you, but I was referring to that." He points to where Merlynn is sitting in Mordred's lap.

Arthur moves away from the window to return to his seat. "I'm fine. Why wouldn't I be?"

"It's okay, Arthur. We know it's hard. But we're here for you." Percy pats the prince on the back as he creeps around him to nab another muffin.

Arthur is not fine. He knows he's not. But he feels like he has to tell himself he is, otherwise he'll crumble, and he's not confident he can be put back together.

It's visible to Elena Arthur is battling with himself. She didn't think it was a good idea for him to come to this thing, despite how much everyone wanted to meet him. She's seen Mordred and Merlynn interact, and except for the sex, they're like watching a live romance novel. When she peers out the window and sees the witch in the warlock's lap, it's obvious they won't be toning down their amorous ways for present company. She doesn't blame them. Merlynn hasn't seen her fiance in person for a long time, and she warned Arthur not to come. Elena just wishes he hadn't decided to torture himself.

Mordred loves holding his Goddess, but there's more to say yet. He pulls her back so he can see her face. Goddess, she's beautiful. He can't believe this woman loves him. Him, the prophesied bane of their savior. "That's not all, Merls. The elders still don't want us getting married yet. My maturity is twenty, but my education is not. They want me to stay for two more years, then we can handfast, and I'll join you in Camelot." He touches his forehead to hers... "But Merlynn... this is the real me." ...then moves to gaze directly in her eyes, holding her face in his palms. His own grin is wide and toothy. "The real me." Never before have they both wanted to kiss. It's not sexual. It's a pure love that's desperate to connect the both of them. They settle for enclosing one another in their arms, weaving themselves together. After some time they both realize they can't stay there forever. They do have plans. He lifts Merlynn into his arms bridal style and carries her to the front door. He then drops the raven's legs, still hugging her from the back. Merlynn has to wipe tears away before they enter. Once again hand in hand, she pulls him inside behind her.

Standing in the entryway of the living room, Merlynn introduces her beloved. "Can I have everyone's attention? I want to introduce you to someone very special to me." She can't seem to let go of him or stop staring into his eyes. He's suffering from the same predicament. "This is my love and betrothed, Mordred." Finally the couple realizes they aren't alone in the room.

Mordred is tall. He looks to be about the same height as Leon. That's the first thing everyone notices. Then his wedding attire. It honestly looks like long sleeve hospital scrubs, but their cream and linen fabric. They all find the choice unusual for a formal event.

Merlynn sees bewildered expressions as her friends behold what he's wearing. "Oh no. These are his ceremonial clothes. The whole clan dresses the same."

Okay, that's interesting. So, they are going to look rather out of place. They already figured they'd stand out, being outsiders and having more conservative apparel. Apparently that's not the case here and makes them feel a tad under the microscope.

"Hi Mordred. It's nice to meet you. I'd come and greet you properly, but I'm kind of trapped back here."

"No worries. It is nice to meet you as well, Princess Morgana. I hope to get to know all of you, actually. Especially, you, Your Majesty." His gaze on the prince.

"Actually, His Majesty is my father."

"Not to me. You have always been my King and always will be. It is an honor." He drops to one knee.

God, Arthur really doesn't want to like this kid, but he's sure making it difficult. The reverence is pouring off of him in spades. He can only nod to his what? Subject? What do you call the one who has stolen his soulmate's heart.

Mordred rises to face two known friends. "Gwen. Elena. It's good to finally meet you in person."

"Likewise Mordred." Both women give friendly smiles.

The group feels torn. They know this is hard on Arthur, but they think they need to give Mordred a chance. He does seem a good fit for Merlynn. They all can't help but notice his eyes. They're incredible! Easily worthy of Elena's original assessment, but that's not all. His whole demeanor is genuine and kind. You can't help but like him.

Before anymore introductions can be made, the hosts return, evidently dressed for the handfasting. Sure enough, Merlynn's father is clothed in the same garb as Mordred, and her mother is wearing a linen frock. It matches the color and fabric of the men but is ankle-length, long-sleeved, and has a high neckline. About as modest as it gets and very un-Ambrosian.

"Merlynn, honey, you need to get ready. The ceremony will be starting soon."

Merlynn only realizes then that she is the sole one who still needs to don her handfasting attire. "Oh goddess! Back in a jif!" She pivots to exit, but recalls she doesn't know where her mother stashed her linen gown. "Uh... upstairs?" She tilts her head to the ceiling.

"Yes, and I'm assuming you brought your own reception wear."

"Designed it myself." Merlynn smiles at her parents and winks at her betrothed before she skitters up to her room.

"Ah, Mordred. Good to see you son." Balinore gives his future son-in-law a fatherly hug."

"Balinore. Hunith." He nods to both in recognition and his soon to be mother-in-law squeezes his forearm with a warm grin. She then turns to face all her guests.

"Did everyone get enough refreshments earlier? You probably have about two hours before we eat." Nods, yes', and thank yous resound throughout the room. Soon her daughter is bounding down the stairs. It didn't take long. She's Magic after all.

The group is somewhat taken aback seeing Merlynn wear something so plain and chaste, very not Merlynn.

"Okay, I think we should get going everyone. Don't want to be late." The entire group files out the door, all the couples hand in hand.

--‐--

Camelot trails behind their Ambrosian guides to a clearing just outside the compound. The entire clan circles around a small raised mound in the center, with a simple pergola archway, wrapped in vines and hand picked flowers. The sun is almost set, but there's long torches staked into the earth to continue lighting the nuptuals.

Merlynn can't help but think of her own matrimonial future, especially when strolling in with her love's hand in hers. Peering at his expression out of her periphery, reveals she's not the only one with visualizations of the hereafter. She holds his hand, and he tugs her into him, hugging her from behind.

Elena views her friend sharing a romantic moment with her fiance, and it warms her heart until she turns to see Arthur so despondent. She's not the only one noticing his mourning. The group seems to be torn between watching Merlynn's happiness and Arthur's misery.

Morgana is battling with herself. On one hand, she's feeling bitter towards Merlynn, who almost seems like she's flaunting her relationship. But then she can't fault the Goddess when she specifically warned Arthur. It was Morgana who convinced him to come and torture himself for the sake of the plan. And shouldn't she be grateful for Merlynn's behavior with that in mind? After all pushing him over the edge is what she needs, right?

"How you doing, mate?" Lancelot wraps one arm around his struggling friend.

"Me? Oh just dandy. I love going to romantic occasions, watching my soulmate share enamored looks with her fiance. I'm just peachy. How're you?"

The noble knight eyes the prince sympathetically. "We're here for you, bruv. Don't be afraid to lean on us."

Arthur clenches Lance's shoulder in appreciation but never says a word.

Once they reach the ceremonial site, Merlynn faces all of her Camelot guests. "This is where we separate. The women are segregated to the northern hemisphere of the circle, while you men will stay with Mordred in the southern." The witch waits for her female party to join her, and they make their way to the designated region.

"All right men, let's move a little further in, but I don't want to be too close and draw attention." They edge nearer to the crowd, but stay to the outskirts.

"Why does Ambrosia split the genders?" Once again Elyan is intrigued. He's read about various cultures differentiating men and women for certain customs, but the reasoning is what fascinates him.

"Nothing special. Just like a traditional wedding there are bridesmaids and groomsmen. In Ambrosia, all the women are bridesmaids, and all the men are groomsmen. That's why everyone's dressed the same."

"So you're saying you all are technically in the wedding?"

The warlock nods. "You all aren't participants but observers, so we're keeping towards the outside to not disturb the service." The group, although not completely out of sight, is concealed enough by the throng of Ambrosians, whose focus are entirely on one man.

The groom bides equidistant of all the men, wearing a slim fit, champagne tuxedo, with a white dress shirt unbuttoned to his solar plex. He stands motionless, as if in a trance, not acknowledging anyone around him.

"That's Will. He's Merlynn's best friend."

"Isn't he your friend, too?" Percival asks.

"He is. Will and Freya are both Merlynn's and mine friends, but Will and Merlynn have always had something particularly special. Kindred spirits you might say. The elders believe they must have had a strong connection in their past lives."

Gwaine notices the groom's odd behavior. "What's a matter with him?"

"Nothing. His focus is only on Freya right now. See, in a handfasting ceremony he knows we're all here in his mind, but he isn't seeing anyone else. That's not metaphorical. Magic has created he and Freya their own world. Only they and the celebrant are present. See how he's surrounded but not paying attention to anyone. No, his current existence is only Freya."

The Camelot ladies approach the sea of female Ambrosians. They spot a woman standing in the center of it all wearing a sheer, white gown featuring off-the-shoulder billowing sleeves and strategic floral appliques. Her gaze is directed across the way while women swarm around her, but no one seems to be having any contact with her.

"That's Will's bride, Freya. She's in that special place now. She won't know that we're here."

"What'd you mean?" Sefa asks.

"In Ambrosia, when a couple handfast, magic takes them to their own dimension, just the two of them and eventually the officiant joins them."

"And they're there now?" Gwen's interest is piqued at the idea of a couple's own secluded space. Sounds so romantic.

"Well obviously not in body, but in mind, yes."

The girls notice an older gentleman is now ambling to the mound under the arbor. As the clearing quiets and only hushed murmurs can be heard throughout the congregation, a few straggling natives scurry to their allotted hemisphere, then there is silence.

The ceremony begins when both sides diverge, opening his and her pathways for the couple to meet in the heart of the ring. The clan elder and celebrant, Iseldir, awaits their advent.

Camelot is enchanted by the beauty of the service, made all the more picturesque by the hallowed observance of ancient ritual. Five ribbons of various colors bind the couple's wrists.

"Diamond white for purity, may you always be faithful. Sapphire blue for understanding, may you always use wisdom. Topaz yellow for happiness, may you always have friendship. Emerald green for earth and balance, may your relationship forever grow. And finally ruby red for passion, may your fires always burn."

The kinky haired brunette and future bride is taking notes for her own upcoming nuptuals.

Besides the actual handfasting, the rest of the ceremony is classic of a traditional wedding with personal vows and rings exchanged. Freya's topaz band from her engagement has been recast in a single stone wrapped in diamonds, and Will now wears a wider version of his own betrothal ring.

Merlynn glances down at the jewelry she's worn since she was a child, magically resized as her growing body demanded. In two year's time her own sapphire will be encased in the same sparkling white frosting, and she will be a married woman. She wonders if the platinum band will still wrap the sapphire. It will. She'll make it so. It was a gift from Mordred and she won't lose it. She spots her betrothed across the clearing, tall and handsome, and set apart from the masses. At least in her eyes. The Goddess dreamily sighs and reluctantly returns her attention back to the marital site.

While Merlynn's two friends kiss, the clan elder whispers a spell over their joined hands. "Aefre annes." Camelot watches in interest as magic swirls around the bride and groom. Balinore and Hunith explain that during this portion the Triple Goddess is blessing and sealing the lover's bond.

The final element of the ceremony that continues to differentiate an Ambrosian custom from others, is when a path is cleared to the east for the couple's retreat. This sacred tradition is symbolic of the rising sun, representing a dawning unity. The visitors find it beautiful and almost awe inspiring for a newly married husband and wife. The whole ceremony has seemed hallow and a deeper, otherworldly event that creates a stronger union then a traditional wedding could even hope for. At last, the conclusion that ends all such occasions, Ambrosia and Camelot cheer.

--

"All right, love. I'll see you later."

"Oh, you can count on it. I've designed something just for you." She twinkles flirtatiously.

"Can't wait." He shamelessly leers at his dragonlady while stepping backwards, holding onto her as long as he can until they eventually part. He then blows her a two handed kiss and turns to continue his trek home.

Merlynn's rooted to the ground still staring at her beloved's retreat.

"Merlynn?"

She shakes from her temporary trance to acknowledge her mum. "Hmm?"

"Come on, honey. You'll see him later. We know you've missed him."

Merlynn sighs and the whole entourage starts heading home. "It's not just that. He had a surprise for me." She grins to herself, still drifting along, mind consumed with her warlock. "A wonderful surprise."

Balinore and Hunith smile at each other knowingly. "We know, cariad."

That stops her short. Merlynn gestures to the group to keep going while she turns to her parents. There still are a few lingering, however. Particularly her roommates. "You know? How do you know?"

"He told us. We think he actually told us before anyone. We thought he should wait to tell you the news in person, though."

"Wow... so then you know how amazing this is?"

"Of course, and we couldn't be happier for you."

The roommates look at each other desperately curious of all the hype. "Hey, what's the news? Can Gwen and I know too?"

Merlynn smiles at her parents who shoo her away. She scuttles to her new best friends to reveal the news. "Mordred is now twenty, like really twenty."

They eye one another confused. "How can that be? We thought he was fourteen." Just... what?

"Not anymore. He's been permanently aged."

"Wait a sec. Isn't that what he was doin' when we did the Skype?"

Merlynn shakes her head along with verbalizing her answer. "No. That was a glamour, like a disguise. He was still always only fourteen. Now it's different. This is him. He could do a glamour to show what he looked like when he was fourteen. But he is now just as twenty as you and I are."

"That still doesn't make sense... I mean... he uh... wouldn't he still have the mind of a fourteen year old?" Gwen could make herself eighty... well, she couldn't, but... you know what she means. She would still be truthfully twenty.

"Not anymore than I have the mind of a fifteen hundred year old. Technically, I was born in the sixth century, yet I have the look, body, and temporary mind of a twenty year old."

"But that's different. You aged yourself down. He went up." Elena must be missing something. This seems like common sense.

Merlynn smiles wide. "That's where the miracle comes in. This was not Mordred's idea. He didn't even think about it as a possibility. But the elders apparently have been watching him for awhile. They believe that the Goddess has intervened and already aged him in all but appearance. Before they did anything permanent, though, they wanted to be sure. So they tested him. Things like his behavior, how he relates to people, how he processes things. All aspects a psychologist would look for, but they also did the magic tests, which pinpoints the actual age, and the magic was conclusive. Mordred. is. twenty."

The two women are astonished. They knew he came across older by how he spoke and everything, and his glamour did seem to match him more. Actually, if they really think about it, it does make sense.

"Anyway, since it was obvious the Triple Goddess had intervened, and it's quite the coincidence he happened to age to exactly match mine, the elders believe this is Mother's proof of blessing our relationship." Merlynn feels slightly disappointed by her friends' reactions. She would have thought they'd be happier for her. "It's just... a really big deal. Not to only us but all magic."

They have to admit this is momentous for the magic community. If they know the Triple Goddess is for it, then they'll stop insisting Emrys marry the Once and Future King. Speaking of... "So, I guess you'll be getting married too?"

"Not yet. They want him to stick around for two more years, but then yes, he and I will handfast." She has a dreamy, blissful aura about her.

"Does this mean you'll be locking lips now?"

Merlynn freezes and eyes widen, then she smacks her forehead in realization. "Goddess, that's right! I didn't think... but of course!" Merlynn's in full delirium with lips that may actually come off her face. She's frankly making a scene, and the rest of their party has stopped, watching with interest. "Oh my goddess, it's tonight! Tonight!" Then she calms down... and starts to panic. "Oh Gwen, it's tonight! How can I do this?! I mean... of course I know how to do this... or do I? Oh goddess maybe I can't do this! Maybe I'm wrong! Gwen, what if I'm wrong?! What, if...? What if I'm bad, Gwen? I've never done this before!"

Gwen wraps her arms around her friend. At the same time the witch's mother approaches to learn what's wrong with her daughter.

Meanwhile, Morgana creeps up to Elena, too nosey for her own good. "What's going on? Why'd Merlynn go all..." She flings her arms around. "...berserk?"

"Uh..." The blonde doesn't know what to say. This is really Merlynn's announcement, but she sure is making it hard. The only way Elena's going to appease these people is if she can tell them something. "Hold that thought." She leaves the priestess and quickly runs to the Goddess. "Hey y'all. I need to know if all this stuff is private, or if I can lay out some info for these guys."

Merlynn is too distraught to respond. Hunith and Gwen eye each other, then the mother answers. "Use your own discretion. We're going to finish taking Merlynn home."

The roommate nods and runs back to Morgana. Somewhat difficult in heels. "Okay, I'll tell the ladies, but not the guys. Especially Arthur."

"Why not Arthur?"

"You'll understand. Hey Sefa! Mith! Get over here! I'm only saying it once." Soon all four women are bunched in. "All right, here's the scoop..."

"What do you think they're sayin'?"

"Well, I don't know, Elyan, but you can bet it probably has something to do with why Merlynn just went from the happiest I've ever seen her, to the most miserable in the span of twenty seconds."

"Do you think she's all right?"

"I think, Perce, our resident witch, if she is down, won't be there for long," Gwaine answers.

"I second that. I work with her. She always gets back up again."

"I think it's a woman's thing. Gwen really didn't have a worried look when she walked past me. In fact she seemed kind of... mother hen. You know like she's calming a child."

"Whatever it is, I'm sure she'll be fine. I'm going to head on back. Besides, I need to use the loo."

"Right behind you, princess." Gwaine skips to catch up.

"I think I'll head in, too. I want another one of those brownies before the reception," Percival says.

"That does sound good," Elyan agrees.

Eventually all the knights make it back to the house.

The women, however, can't move.

"So anyway, I really don't think it's a good idea to tell the guys yet, especially Arthur and definitely not the kiss part."

Morgana has to agree. She honestly doesn't know if he could ever hear it. Even though she knows he'll have to.

"This will break him. With the way he's been... I don't know. Maybe he really shouldn't go."

Morgana understands Mithian and normally she would say the same thing, but she needs him to go. He needs to see and fuel his fire. The sooner this whole plan is over, the better. This could be the break she needs. "Nonsense. Arthur's a big boy, and what better way to rip the band-aid off. He's going to walk through the fire tonight, but be surrounded by all his supportive friends and family. We will help him through this, and in the end, he'll be all the better for it." She hopes. "What doesn't kill you makes you stronger." She pats Elena on the back and saunters off. She can't look at them. She doesn't even believe her words. And kill him... this just might.

When Morgana walks in the door the first thing she sees is Gwen exiting a room upstairs.

Gwen notices the girls have just returned, specifically Morgana. She tilts her head to the side signaling for the priestess to join her in the other room.

"Okay, I'm here what's up?"

"I'm assuming Elena told you what's going on."

"Yeah. How's Merlynn?"

"Fine. Her mum and I calmed her down, and now she's just excited. Morgana, Arthur can't go. He has to stay here."

"I know everybody thinks that, but I truly feel he needs this." She's not lying. It's just not for the reasons people think. "He has to deal with it. Face your fears, right?"

Gwen has been ardently shaking her head. "No Morgana, you don't understand. I've seen what she's wearing. He. cannot. go. She's agreed to wear a jacket out of here, so if he stays he'll never have to see it."

"Gwen, I think you're overreacting. Besides he's already prepared for something salacious."

"Morgana... listen to me. What she is wearing now makes the rest of her wardrobe look... tame."

The princess sighs. "Is it really that bad?" Gwen's expression says it all. "Fine, I'll talk to him." She wants to move things along, but not enough to give her brother an aneurysm. Gwen nods to her, and Morgana leaves to find Arthur.

There, crisis averted. Now to find Lance.

"Arthur?"

"What is it, sis?"

"I think I was wrong and you shouldn't go."

"What? What happened to 'get over it, Arthur. You have to deal with it sometime, Arthur. Everyone's counting on you, Arthur'."

"Yeah, well... I think this might be a little more than I expected."

"Does this have anything to do with what happened with Merlynn?"

"Some, but it also has to do with her gown." His eyebrows squeeze together in confusion. "Apparently, it's somewhat... over the top, in the sexy department."

"Oh, if that's all, I can handle it. I've gotten used to Merlynn's wardrobe. I'll be fine."

"According to Gwen, not this. I think she's warning everyone, honestly, not just you."

Arthur's thinks that does sound extreme if Gwen has to warn people. He's already struggling so maybe he shouldn't push. "All right. I'll stay back."

"Good. I'll let Merlynn know." She rounds him and makes her way to the Goddess.

Knock. Knock. Knock.

"Yes?"

"It's Morgana. May I come in?"

"Yes, come on in."

Morgana opens the door and it looks like Merlynn's putting the finishing touches on her makeup, then her eyes trail down and she gulps. Gwen was right! Bloody hell, she was so right! It is not a gown, definitely not a gown, would have had more coverage if it was a gown. The priestess can't believe the raven would even leave the room let alone go out in public. Yes, despite her need to push the plan faster, she could not do this to Arthur. Morgana is very grateful he decided to stay. "Uh... I needed to let you know Arthur decided to stay back. I know everyone wants to meet him but..."

Merlynn interrupts and waves her hand. "Say no more, say no more. I completely understand and so will the clan. I really think it's for the best."

"Yeah. Um, so you about ready?"

"Yes, I just need to fetch a jacket. I think I have a knee-length trench coat hanging in the hall closet."

"Okay, well I... I'll just meet you downstairs then." She gestures to the doorway.

"Okay. Be there in a minute."

When Morgana reaches the living room everyone is standing around, including Merlynn's mother. Her attire is not as bad as her daughter's, but unquestionably, not something the average forty-something year old woman would wear. It's basically just a silver sparkly wrap around dress. The skirt's hemline is about mid thigh, and the neckline has a somewhat deep cut between the breasts, but not too bad. Certainly not like Merlynn. Definitely not motherly, but she's an attractive woman and can pull it off. Soon Merlynn comes into view in the doorway. She's wearing a long leather jacket as promised.

"Everyone ready?"

"Yes dear, we need to get over there. We don't want to be later than Will and Freya."

Merlynn glances at the clock. "We should still be able to walk. I don't think I need to teleport people. Unless... does anyone want to teleport?" she asks the room. Emphatic "no's!" almost in unison. Okay, clearly not fans of teleportation. "All right then, let's go." She strides towards the door.

"Merlynn?"

It's her King. Her King wants to speak with her? "Uh... go on without me, everyone. I'll catch up. My parents know the way." She worms her way to Arthur through all her friends passing by. "Yes?"

"Uh, I uh... I just wanted to say I'm sorry I'm not going. I know your people wanted to meet me and..."

"I already told you, sire, they would understand. I understand. Mordred understands. I think it is for the best. I truly do. An Ambrosian reception can be... overwhelming to say the least, and you might have seen some things that made you uncomfortable. It's okay, trust me. Really." She almost touches him but catches herself the last minute. "What do you plan on doing? I can summon a telly or something."

"No, that's not necessary. I have my phone. I can just play Candy Crush."

Merlynn gives him a soft smile and nearly reaches door before...

"Merlynn?"

"Hmm?"

"Have fun tonight."

"Thank you, sire. You too."

He watches her leave. His Goddess. It's like she's walking out of his life. She hasn't called him Arthur since they talked in Morgana's sitting room. She's just doing what he wanted. He needed her to back off and she did. Merlynn. His Merlynn always willing to obey her King.

Damn, he wishes she wouldn't.

9. Another element I wanted that I haven't mentioned is a modern Merlin. I do appreciate canon too, but for this story the modern setting worked better.

I already said I love Mordred. Why I made him underage is for two reasons. One being that it is a good reason her fiance wouldn't join her in Camelot yet. But another is it's a good way to make the jealousy in Arthur stronger. It's one thing to be jealous of an equal. It's a whole other issue if your competition is so obviously beneath you. But then I have the permanent aging, which now adds the aspect of true romance between our betrothed lovers. Plus it explains how a twenty year old could be in love with a fourteen year old. Trust me. Made me cringe too. She could innately sense his equality to her, just as everyone feels a twenty year old in Merlynn despite her being over 1500 years old.