Hello and welcome back ti another chapter of the story. I hope you liked the previous one and I want to thank all those who read the chapter and reviewed it. Thanks a lot guys! It means a lot to me. Now without waiting another moment, let's go with the chapter.
The once and future Queen
In Odin's castle, the king was staring at a shrine with painful expression.
The king placed his hand on the stone and heaved a painful sigh. And looked at the shrine, which had a helmet, and cloak and a shield with their noble symbol on ton of it.
The king was interrupted, when the door was opened and two men entered the room.
"My Lord, he is here." The knight, whose name is Kelda, said pointing at the other bald one. He then took a step back, providing space to the other man.
The king turned to look at the man.
"You are Myror? Legend has it, you are the most feared assassin in all the known lands. Tell me, are you as ruthless as they say you are? You would kill anyone?" Odin asked.
"I have killed many people. They are all the same to me." Myror, the assassin replied with a calm yet firm tone.
"You are prepared to kill royalty?" King Odin asked the assassin.
"My Lord, you would already be dead had someone placed a bounty on you." He said calmly. The knight in the room drew out his sword at such treason but Myror successfully fought the man beating him. The knight lied in the floor, semi-conscious, while Myror stood proudly, pointing the sword at knight's chest.
Odin gave the assassin a look before he threw him a bag of coins.
"I want you to kill the man who murdered my son." King Odin said, while Myror gave a questioning look.
"I want you to kill Arthur Pendragon." The king placed the Bounty.
In Camelot, two knights are facing each other, firmly mounted on their horses with wooden lances in their hands.
The flag swayed as a signal and both the knights started riding towards each other.
One of the knights hit the other one with a force resulting in the knight to fall off his horse while the one to win moved forward.
Merlin and Alexia moved forward towards the knight.
"That has got to hurt." Merlin mused, clearly pitying the fallen knight. Arthur removed his helmet and looked at his servant.
"That's the point, Merlin. It's not a pillow fight. Fetch me another lance, will you?" He ordered Alexia who complied.
Arthur jousted against another knight. Both the riders rode forward with their lances. But a flash of light temporarily blinded Arthur, leaving him vulnerable. The other knight too pulled back his lance passing Arthur. The knight reached another corner, getting off his horse, and took his helmet off to reveal sir Leon.
Arthur too unmounted his horse in an angry movement.
"Why did you pull out, I was wide open? You could have unhorsed me." Arthur asked moving towards the knight. At this point all the knights turned to look at him while Alexia and Merlin too took at step forward.
"I was fearful that I might injure you, Sire." Sir Leon said.
"You HAD the advantage. You can't afford to hesitate." Arthur said angrily.
"I wouldn't have done if I were facing a different opponent. You are the future King, My Lord." Sir Leon said looking straight in the prince's eyes.
"You jousted against me in the tournament last year. Are you saying you let me win?" Arthur asked moving a bit forward.
"No, My Lord." Sir Leon said while breaking the eye contact, before looking at the prince again.
Arthur looked at bit surprised and turned to look around to see many knights looking at him.
"It doesn't matter who I am! I do not expect any special treatment from you, from any of you! Is that understood?" He asked.
The Knights hesitated and nodded.
Arthur gave a last look to Leon before leaving. Merlin and Alexia looked at each other and mentally prepared themselves for upcoming tantrum.
Arthur slammed his doors open entering in a quick motion, clearly displaying his anger.
"How am I going to prove myself if my opponents aren't trying their hardest?" Arthur asked removing his helmet placing it on his table and continued to remove other pieces of his armour while throwing them across the room.
"I'm sure it's not happening all the time." Merlin consoled the prince following him.
"So it's happening some of the time?
Arthur asked turning around.
"No, I'm certain it isn't." Merlin said a bit too quickly.
"Now you're doing it! You're telling me exactly what you think I want to hear!" Arthur said exasperated.
"Yes. Er...no. Er...What was the question?" Merlin asked. Arthur groaned while Alexia sighed.
"Merlin is not doing, what you believe him to. We are just trying to calm you, so we don't have to see another of your girly tantrums." Alexia retorted with a glare. Arthur gave her a look before turning back and leaning on his table.
"All my life I've been treated as if I'm special. I just want to be treated just like everyone else." Arthur said.
"Well we..." Alexia tried to say cheerfully before Merlin cut it.
"Really?" He asked. Alexia rolled her eyes at him.
"You have no idea how lucky you are." Arthur said.
"Well, anytime you want to swap places, just let me know." Merlin said collecting all the armour pieces Arthur threw around the room with Alexia.
"That's not a totally stupid idea." Arthur mused looking at Merlin.
"You're Prince Arthur. You can't change who you are." Merlin said.
"Yes I can." Getting an idea.
Alexia smirked.
"Oh the great prince prat finally used his one and only brain cell." Alexia teased.
Merlin and Arthur looked at her a bit confused.
"Brain cell?" Arthur asked.
"Sometimes I think you deserve the championship in formulating new words." Arthur said.
Alexia rolled her eyes.
"So what's the plan?" She asked with an unsaid mirth in her eyes.
Now it was Arthur's turn to smirk.
In the council's chamber, Arthur and Uther ate their dinner. Merlin and Alexia stood behind, waiting for their sevice.
"We've received reports that a beast has been sighted roaming the forest near the northern borders." Arthur said.
"What's the nature of this beast?" Uther asked.
"It is said to have the body of a lion, the wings of an eagle, and the...face of a bear... I believe it has been conjured by sorcery." Arthur said hesitating before telling his Father.
Merlin struggled not to laugh while Alexia coughed trying to cover her laugh.
"Then we must destroy it." Uther said ignoring the two servants.
"I'll leave for the northern borders in the morning." Arthur said glaring at Alexia who would have just blown off his plan.
"But you'll miss the tournament." Uther pointed out.
"As much as I want to compete, my duty to Camelot comes first." Arthur reasoned.
"You are right, of course." The king agreed with his son.
Alexia was biting her inner cheek to prevent her laugh.
Next day, Arthur was in the woods a bit far from Camelot, along with few of his knights.
He got off his horse and told one of his knights.
"I'll meet you here in four days. You must tell no one I've returned to Camelot." He ordered the knight, who nodded in response and took off. Arthur now stood alone.
He glanced around looking for someone.
Merlin came running to him, while unfortunately stumbling, and stopped near him panting hard.
" You're late." Arthur said taking the side back from Arthur.
"Sorry. Gaius had me wa...ing the floors. I couldn't..." Merlin told him breathing hard while Arthur changed his tunic.
"What is that smell? Whose clothes are these?" He asked.
"They're mine. I washed them specially." Merlin replied.
"Where is Alexia?" Arthur asked. Merlin grinned at this.
"Where she should be." He said before his face turned serious.
"You sure this is a good idea?" Merlin asked.
"Seems pretending to be somebody else is the only way to get people to be honest with me. Grab my bag, will you?" Arthur asked.
"If you want to pass as a peasant, you should probably carry your own bag." Merlin replied incrediously.
"You're forgetting something, Merlin." Arthur said bending to pick the bag from the ground. "No one will know it's my bag." He completed tossing the bag at Merlin and walking away. Merlin gave him an exasperated look before he followed him.
"There must be easier ways to prove yourself." He suggested moving behind Arthur.
"Shut up, Merlin!" Was the only reply that came.
In the council chambers, in king's palace, Uther was standing near his throne looking at the knight in front of him.
"I was there in person. Odin has put a price on Prince Arthur's head." Kelda told the king.
"Surely he wouldn't dare." Uther said.
"He's blinded by grief, My Lord. The assassin Myror has accepted the bounty." Kelda said.
"I've heard of this Myror." Uther remembered.
"I believe he's heading for Camelot as we speak. I bring you this information at great risk to myself." Kelda said bowing a bit.
Uther motioned on of his knights, who threw a pouch towards Kelda. Kelda bowed and left the chambers.
"Double the guards. I want this assassin intercepted before he reaches Camelot." Uther commanded.
In the woods outside Camelot, Myror stood in hiding, waiting for Arthur to kill him. He stood there with his crossbow and waited for Arthur to come into view, but was surprised to see his horse empty.
He lowered his crossbow.
In the lower town, Arthur and Merlin moved throught the crowds. Arthur had a hood on his head, which obstructed his face to come into view.
The pair moved towards a house and Merlin entered the door as Alexia opened it, Gwen beside her.
Merlin smiled and moved aside to allow Arthur to enter.
Arthur entered and looked around the room, removing his hood.
He moved forward.
Alexia closed the door and turned to Gwen.
"My Lord." Gwen courtisied, while Alexia just stood there. Arthur turned to look at her.
"Guinevere." Arthur responded. "It's good of you to let me stay in your home." Arthur said while not looking so grateful.
"I'm happy to help." Gwen said with her cheering smile.
"Food." Merlin whispered.
"I'll prepare some food for you." She said to Arthur.
She then turned to Alexia.
"I can't believe you talked me into this!" She said in a hushed voice.
"Even after I did?" Alexia asked in same tone, joking to light her mood.
Merlin just shook his head and went to Arthur, while Alexia and Gwen moved towards kitchen.
"You can't really expect me to stay here." Arthur whispered.
"We need to keep you out of sight. We can trust Gwen not to tell anyone you're here. And it was Alexia's plan not mine." Merlin defended in hushed tone.
"I doubt anyone would believe it." Arthur snorted, still whispering.
"You really can't go without your big bed and your soft pillows?" Merlin finally taunted his prince.
"This will be fine." Arthur resigned grumbling.
"How are the preparations coming along? Have we found someone to play our knight in the tournament?" He asked moving forward before turning back to look at Merlin.
"Absolutely. He's a farmer from one of the outlying villages, and no one will recognise him." Merlin said.
"But does he look the part?" Arthur asked.
At this a conflicted look passed his face.
After sometime, Gwen, Alexia, Merlin and Arthur were standing in a row looking at the man standing infront of them. The man wore rag clothes and was quite dirty in mud.
Arthur gave the man a critical look. The man stood there fiddling with the hem of his tunic and jacket.
"Great!" He said a bit sarcastically, turning his head away.
Alexia muffled her laugh.
The next moments passed with Merlin, Gwen and Alexia getting the man ready. All the while Arthur looked at the process with a defeated look on his face.
When Alexia and Merlin put the chainmail on the man, he stumbled backwards falling. Alexia, Merlin and Gwen quickly handled him.
Finally the man was prepared in the knights clothes.
Merlin unrolled the seal of nobility.
"From now on, you're Sir William of Daira." Merlin announced and the four people looked at Arthur expectantly, who placed his bowl of food on the table in defeat.
William paced around the room and Arthur, Merlin, Alexia and Gwen were looking at the man.
"Imagine you're really...arrogant. Knights like to think they're so much better than everyone else." Merlin said trying to make the man behave like knight.
"It's not arrogance. Ignore him, he's an idiot. A knight must behave with honour and nobility." Arthur interrupted Merlin.
At this William's walk became a strut. Alexia just stared a bit surprised.
"That's...better. You must convince everyone that you were born into a noble family." Arthur told him slowly and clearly.
William looked at Merlin, stopping his pace.
"Polish my armour, boy." William said in a voice practically ringing with authority. Alexia and Gwen looked surprised while Merlin's face fell in distaste.
"Now you're gettin' the hang of it." Arthur complimented with a huge smile.
William laughed in a strange way. Gwen and Alexia suppressed a smile.
"That's a good point, you do need to polish our armour." Arthur pointed out.
"Yeah." William said with the same authority. Four pair of eyes turned to him while the said man just laughed in his strange way.
Gwen again suppressed her smile, but this time Alexia burst into laughing.
Arthur rolled his eyes at his maidservant's behaviour, while Merlin smiled at her.
It was night when Alexia and Merlin entered the room and fell on their respective beds, tired.
"I never did so much work in my whole life." Alexia said in a low voice.
Gaius passed the room and his eyes fell on the pair.
Before Merlin could reply Alexia, he heard the voice of Gaius.
"Glad to see you both are resting. I take it that mean you've got the energy to clean my leech tank." He said and left the place.
"Ugh!" The magical pair groaned in agony.
Gwen swept her house while Arthur finished his drink. He placed his mug on the table and then stood up.
"It's been a long day. I think I'll turn in for the night." Arthur said and turned.
"Is this my bed?" He asked sitting on the bed.
Gwen looked at him. An unreadable look on her face.
"Of course. I hope you'll be comfortable." Gwen said.
"I'm sure I will be." Arthur assured her.
Gwen turned around and then moved inside.
She drew the curtains and heaved a silent sigh. Picking up the blanket kept near her, Gwen made up a bed on the floor. But she was quite uncomfortable. Arthur was in same position. Both finally settled.
"Goodnight, Guinevere." Arthur said.
"Goodnight, My Lord." Gwen replied.
In the woods, Myror arrived at the main gates of the castle. He sneaked behind a door and observed the gaurds, standing and patrolling. He looked around to find a way to enter the palace. Climbing the wall of the palace, Myror made his way to the castle.
Entering the halls, he moved forward while observing everything around. Seeing a gaurd, he turned around, but unfortunately for him, the gaurd saw him.
"Halt!" The gaurd called.
Myror stopped.
"Show yourself." The gaurd said and Myror turned around, his arms spread around in the motion of surrender.
"What business do you have in the King's palace?" The gaurd asked observing the intruder.
"I came to seek an audience with, with Prince Arthur." Myror said.
"What's your name?" The gaurd asked.
"My name is Myror." Myror said before grabbing his throat and choking him to death, while dragging his body aside.
In some other parts of the palace. A gaurd, Fyren, stalked down the corridor. Myror grabbed the gaurd and placed his hand on his mouth before removing it.
"Why are you here?" Fyren asked.
"Your information was wrong. Prince Arthur is not among the party travelling to the northern borders." Myror told him.
"The Prince left with them yesterday." Fyren informed.
"Then they must have separated. Perhaps he has returned to Camelot." Myror suggested.
"Not that I've heard. His return would've been announced at court." Fyren said.
"It would seem the Prince does not want to be found. Hmm." Myror said moving away from fyren who released the breath he unknowingly held.
Next day, Alexia and Merlin entered the tournament grounds along with a hooded figure, who clearly was Arthur. They quickly entered a tent.
Uther walked into the stands and the knights entered on horseback to stand before the King.
"Now, remember the plan. I'm competing in the tournament, but no one will know that it's me. All you have to do is acknowledge the crowd at the end of the match. Act like you belong there and people will believe that you do." Arthur said while giving William his helmet. The said boy nodded and left.
The knights all appeared infront of the king on their horses.
"Knights of the realm, welcome to Camelot. You've trained for this day for many years." Uther addressed the knights. William's horse snorted while he tried to make it quite.
Merlin and Alexia peeked through the tents while Arthur got ready in background.
"Well, he hasn't fallen off his horse." Merlin commented while Alexia nodded her head in agreement.
"...our bravery, strength..." Uther's voice boomed in the background.
"I suppose that's something." Arthur commented wryly.
"...and your skill to the test. Today you will fight for glory and for honour. For this is the ultimate test of courage. And it will be the measure of you as men. For only the most skillful, the most fearless among you will emerge as a worthy champion." Uther finally finished his speech. All the while William struggled with the horse and Gwen laughed silently watching the man's struggles.
William entered the tent and moved towards Arthur.
"They're ready for you, Sire." He said holding out his helmet. Arthur took the helmet. Alexia and Merlin shared a glance before moving their eyes on Arthur. Arthur placed the helmet on his head and the covered his face.
On the tournament grounds, Arthur prepared to attack his opponent. Gwen cheered enthusiastically from the stands. Arthur looked at his opponent.
The two jousters faced each other with their lances, and then started riding forward to strike. Merlin and Alexia peeked through the tents.
Arthur striked hard and the other knight fell off his horse on the ground. Everyone in the stands, including Uther, raised to their feet while cheering enthusiastically.
The tournament continued and Arthur won all his matches. The stands were filled with roars and cheers. Myror too was sitting at the last watching the tournament.
Arthur entered the tent after his last match. He gave his helmet to William and moved to the table.
"You must go and acknowledge the crowd." Arthur said, picking a glass of water.
"How do you do that?" William asked confused.
"You wave, they cheer. It's not difficult." Arthur said and gulped water, while William practiced a wave and went out.
"I do all the work, someone else gets all the praise." Arthur said in annoyance.
"Know the feeling." Merlin and Alexia muttered.
"When I win this tournament, I'll reveal my true identity, get the credit I deserve."
Arthur said.
"Of course you will." Merlin agreed knowing full well how his master worked.
Arthur gave the pair a look.
"Well don't just stand there. Help me off with my armour. And remember to polish it before tomorrow. The horse needs grooming. And don't forget to repair the broken lances." Arthur said.
Merlin and Alexia looked at him.
"Anything else sire?" Merlin and Alexia asked at the same time with voice full of sarcasm.
Arthur just turned around in response.
"You want a kick at your back?" Alexia asked faking a gasp.
Arthur quickly turned around.
"Alexia!" Arthur growled.
"What?" Alexia asked, putting on her best innocent expression.
Merlin suppressed his laugh at the pair.
Outside the tent, Fyren sat next to Myror in the stands.
"Do you have news on the whereabouts of Prince Arthur?" Myror asked.
"Everyone believes he is travelling to the northern borders, but I've discovered that Arthur's servants remain in Camelot." Fyren said.
"Who are these servants?
"That's them." Fyren replied pointing at the direction of Merlin and Alexia who were standing near a horse laughing and tending the horse.
"Why are they working for another knight?" Myror asked.
Merlin and Alexia sneaked into physician's chambers at night. They opened the door and saw Gaius working on his medicine. Quietly, they made their way to their room but stopped when Gaius turned to them.
He stared at the Magical pair.
"Is this about the leech tank?" Merlin asked feigning innocence.
"How very perceptive of you, Merlin." Gaius said sarcastically.
"We'll clean it tomorrow." Alexia promised.
"And will that be before or after you've scrubbed the floors and done the laundry?" Gaius asked raising his famous eyebrow of doom.
After sometime, Merlin and Alexia could be seen scrubbing the floor of the chambers, while the laundry was magically doing itself.
In Gwen's house, Gwen was clearing the table after dinner.
"From what I hear, the ladies of the court are quite impressed with Sir William. They think he's very handsome." Gwen said. Arthur scoffed a bit.
"Typical. He wouldn't know a real knight if he whacked him round the head with his lance." Arthur said.
"Why are you doing this?" Gwen asked turning around to look at Arthur.
"I fear that people respect me just because of my title." Arthur told her.
"I don't believe that's true of everyone." Gwen argued.
"Would you tell me if it were?" Arthur asked.
"No." Gwen accepted.
"When I'm competing as William, my title doesn't matter, nobody gives me any special treatment. So when I win this tournament...if I win this tournament, it will be because I deserve it and not because I am Prince Arthur." Arthur said.
He then quickly stood up.
"I think I'll take a bath." Arthur said stretching a bit.
"That might be difficult seeing as I don't have a bathtub." Gwen said.
"Really? Er...perhaps you could prepare me a bowl of hot water. I take it you have a bowl." Arthur said not really bothered.
"I think I can manage a bowl." Gwen said moving to the door and picking up a shawl.
"Just walk all the way down to the well and fetch some water then, shall I?" Gwen asked annoyed.
Arthur grunted in reply as he stretched.
Gwen turned and left.
Next morning, Alexia and Merlin were sleeping on the floor. Alexia was slumped against a wall while Merlin was lying on his stomach on the floor.
Their eyes opened as they heard a creak from the door.
Alexia and Merlin looked towards the door to find Gaius entering with his bag.
"Merlin, Alexia, on your feet. Arthur may be away, but I'm not. And why is my leech tank still dirty? Where do you both get the idea you can sit around all day doing nothing?" Gaius asked.
"Wha..? Do you think I sit around doing nothing?!" Merlin asked shocked.
At this point both the youngsters stood up. But their intentions were entirely different. Merlin got up to reply while Alexia stood up the get a clear view of Merlin's rant.
"I haven't had a chance to sit around and do nothing since the day I arrived in Camelot! I'm too busy running around after Arthur! Do this, Merlin! Do that, Merlin! And when I'm not running around after Arthur, I'm doing chores for you! And if I'm not doing that, I'm fulfilling my destiny! Do you know how many times I've saved Arthur's life? I've lost count. Do I get any thanks? No. I have fought: Griffins, witches, erm...bandits, I have been punched, poisoned, pelted with fruit, and all the while I have to hide who I really am, because if anyone finds out, Uther will have me executed! Sometimes I feel like I'm being pulled in so many directions, I don't know which way to turn!" Merlin finally stopped to take a breath.
He then left the room while Alexia and Gaius looked at each other.
In the tournament grounds, two knights were jousting against each other. Sir Alinor won the match. Merlin and Alexia saw the win peeking out of the tent.
"Sir Alinor has advanced to the final." Merlin told Arthur. Arthur just put his helmet and stalked out of the tent with determination.
Sir Leon was the one competing with the prince. Arthur prepared himself for the match and sir Leon covered his face. Both the knights rode fast towards each other, while others looked interested in the result of the match. Arthur successfully striked sir Leon, hard leading him to fall from his horse while his foot was stuck in the girth. Arthur raised his lance cheering his win.
Everyone rose to their feet cheering for Arthur while Gwen sat there unaffected.
Gaius sat back after cheering for Arthur and turned to Gwen.
"You're not impressed by this Sir William of Daira." Gaius observed.
"I believe he's an arrogant pig." Gwen replied.
In the tents Merlin and Alexia turned around to look at William with a cheerful smile.
"Congratulations, you are in the final." Merlin said while William cheered.
"Go on then. Your people await you." Arthur said entering and passing the helmet to William. William left the tent.
"No one can say Sir Leon let me win this time." Arthur said cheering and then turned to pick a glass for drinking water.
A loud cheer was heard by the crowd.
"Sounds like the crowd've really taken to William." Alexia mused.
"That will change when I reveal my identity." Arthur said.
"You really miss getting all the attention, don't you?" Merlin asked.
"Just go and water the horse, will you?" Arthur said dismissing his servants while Merlin and Alexia rolled their eyes and exited the tent. Arthur turned back with a slight smile on his face.
Alexia and Merlin were tending the horse, who was drinking water, when Myror approached them.
"He's a fine horse." Myror said drawing attention of Alexia and Merlin. Alexia gave the man a critical look. "I see your master has advanced to the final. He's extremely skilled with a lance." Myror commented.
"He's doing well. Just one more match to go." Merlin agreed while petting the horse.
"Tell me, what is he like to work for?" Myror asked.
"Between you and me? He can be a bit of a prat." Merlin said and both the men laughed. Alexia just sneaked glances at Myror.
"So you are no longer working for Prince Arthur?" Myror asked the pair.
"Arthur is not here, so we decide that we could help other knights throughout the tournament." Alexia replied as casually as she could.
"Well, I, erm, I wish your master luck in the final." Myror said looking at Alexia, bowing a bit.
"Thanks." Merlin and Alexia replied.
Myror left and Merlin turned to horse, but Alexia's eyes were focused on Myror.
In evening, Gwen swept the pantry where she'd been sleeping when Arthur entered through the front door.
"Guinevere?" Arthur called shutting the door behind.
"Just a minute." Gwen replied quickly placing the broom aside and picking her blankets, shoving them in a corner. While Arthur moved towards her removing his cloak and looking at his shirt.
"Do you have a needle and threat? My shirt needs mending." Arthur said reaching her.
"Erm..." Gwen stuttered but Arthur looked around the pantry.
"Is this where you sleep? Where's your bed?" Arthur asked a bit surprised.
"You're sleeping in it." Gwen replied simply.
"Why didn't you say something?" Arthur asked.
"How could I? You're Prince Arthur." Gwen scoffed. "Besides, you didn't give me the chance. You just assumed the bed was yours." She completed.
"Well, how am I supposed to know if you don't tell me?" Arthur asked looking around.
"You shouldn't need to be told to think of someone other than yourself, you're not a child." Gwen scolded the prince who looked a bit surprised at the outburst.
"Is there anything else you'd like to say to me? Please, I'd like to hear it. If there's something you want to say to me, don't let me stop you." Arthur said with his hands on his hips.
Gwen gave him a disbelieving look.
"You don't have any idea, do you?" She asked.
"About what?" Arthur asked completely oblivious.
"About how rude and arrogant you can be! This is my home and you are my guest in it! I know you are used to more luxurious quarters, but that is not an excuse to be so rude! You claim titles don't matter to you, but you behave like a prince and expect me to wait on you like a servant! Saying it means nothing if your actions betray you! Would it kill you to say please and thank you once in a while?" Gwen asked angrily. "My Lord." She added looking down.
"Is there anything else you'd like to add?" Arthur asked.
"No, I think that's it." Gwen said.
Both paused.
"You're right. You have invited me into your home and I have behaved appallingly." Arthur confessed, finally.
"I didn't mean to make you feel bad." Gwen tried.
"Oh, really?" Arthur asked.
"Well, perhaps a little." Gwen confessed.
"There's no excuse. I'll make it up to you. Tonight, I will make dinner for you." Arthur proposed and started pushing her out towards the door.
"You're going to cook me dinner?" Gwen asked clearly shocked.
"I most certainly am. Now go for a walk or do whatever it is that girls do at this time of the evening..." Arthur said pushing Gwen out.
"A walk would be nice." Gwen agreed.
"...and your dinner will be ready when you return." Arthur said closing the door.
He then turned around towards the kitchen. He clapped his hands and rubbed them together in exasperation.
A blank look crossing his face, while Gwen strolled out.
Alexia and Merlin were in lower town when Alexia's eyes fell on Gwen.
A glint of realisation entered her eyes.
"Hey Merlin, wanna bet Arthur is trying to cook dinner for Gwen?" Alexia asked moving towards Gwen.
"Wha..." Merlin looked confused but followed Alexia.
Merlin and Alexia met Gwen in the street as she walked away from her house.
"Where's Arthur?" Alexia asked cheerfully.
"He's cooking me dinner." Gwen said. Merlin looked shocked.
"Arthur's cooking?" He asked.
Gwen gave them a look that read 'surprised?' before continuing to walk away.
Merlin turned to Alexia who was smiling brightly.
"How in the World...?" Merlin asked.
"Oh Merlin, don't you know your prince? He won't cook." Alexia teased before moving towards Gwen's home.
In Gwen's house, Arthur is playing with the raw chicken's legs with a hopeless expression on his face.
Merlin and Alexia entered. Arthur quickly turned around and a look of relief passed his face.
"Merlin, thank God." Arthur said.
"Gwen says you're cooking." Merlin said.
"I need you to fetch me two dinners from the palace kitchens." Arthur ordered his servants.
"So...you're not cooking." Merlin asked, which was actually a statement.
"No, but Gwen doesn't need to know that. As far as she's concerned, dinner will be prepared and cooked by me." Arthur said turning back.
"You're trying to impress her?" Merlin asked.
"Don't be ridiculous, Merlin. And get me a decent shirt, will you? Your clothes are making me itch all over, it's like having fleas." Arthur said.
Both Merlin and Alexia turned to leave but Alexia turned back.
"Were you playing with the raw chicken before we entered?" Alexia asked teasing. Merlin looked at Arthur suppressing his laugh.
Arthur turned a bit red.
"Get out!" Arthur growled. Alexia and Merlin just laughed and left the house quickly.
"What is it with Arthur?" Merlin asked Alexia as they moved towards the palace.
Alexia just gave a knowing smirk.
Merlin looked at her.
"Oh not again. You know don't you? This is not fair!" Merlin exclaimed.
Alexia laughed at his desperation.
"Alexia!" Merlin warned.
"Ok ok. You know why I suggested Gwen's place?" She asked.
Merlin shook his head in response.
"Well it's because Gwen is Arthur's Queen." Alexia replied.
Merlin's eyes widened.
"What?" He asked.
"Um- hmm." Alexia nodded.
"But I am not going to give you details. Just wait and watch." She said. Merlin groaned.
"So now what? We have to get food from palace?" Merlin asked.
"The plan's gonna fail." Alexia said in a sing song tone.
"What? How?" Merlin asked.
"Gwen is not an idiot Merlin, she will recognise the plates."
"Then why are we doing it? We must not let the plan fail." Merlin asked.
Alexia stopped walking and turned to Merlin.
"Because, my dear, Arthur needs to learn a lesson. And I can assure you, at the end of the tournament, you would be proud of your prince." Alexia smirked.
Merlin just shook his head in exasperation.
After sometime, Myror moved around Arthur's chambers.
Alexia and Merlin entered and Myror quickly hid behind the cupboard. They moved towards the cupboard and took the shirt, while Myror prepared to kill them. The Magical pair left after picking up the shirt.
Myror followed the pair out.
Arthur watched the window for Gwen while Merlin and Alexia settled the table.
"She's coming. Quick, out the back way." Arthur said motioning them to leave.
"Do something with this." He said tossing the raw chicken at Merlin who catched it.
"Hope Gwen's impressed with your cooking." Merlin said sarcastically and left with Alexia.
Arthur spun around as Gwen opened the front door.
He stood there with most innocent expression.
"Guinevere. Perfect timing." Arthur said.
He then pulled out her seat for her.
"Thank you." Gwen said looking surprised.
Myror watched from the window and his hand moved to his arm from where he withdrew a mini arrow.
Meanwhile Alexia and Merlin were running.
"Quick we have to do it fast!" Merlin exclaimed.
Alexia nodded.
They moved towards the patrol of Camelot.
"We saw some intruder there. We came as quick as we could to inform you." Merlin said panting a bit.
The patrol quickly moved towards the pointed direction.
Meanwhile, Gwen took a bite from the food.
"This is delicious." Gwen complemented.
"I'm glad you like it." Arthur replied.
Myror moved the curtain and adjusted his crossbow, aiming at Arthur but before he could shoot, the patrol found him.
"Halt! You! Stop right there!" The gaurds said. Myror stumbled and quickly ran from there. The gaurds following him.
Merlin looked at Alexia.
"Next part of plan." Merlin said and Alexia nodded.
They moved towards the castle grounds.
Myror reached the castle ground, while running away from the gaurds. He looked around and found another group of gaurds coming his way. He turned to another direction and found another set of gaurds. Merlin and Alexia hid behind a wall. Myror quickly turned to escape when Merlin's eyes flashed bright gold and Myror slipped on his feet landing on the floor on his face.
The gaurds quickly surrounded him.
Myror froze when he saw more then 15 gaurds pointing their swords and lances at him.
In the council chambers, Uther stood at his throne, while other members of the court stood there. Alexia and Merlin stood beside Gaius.
Myror was forced to his knees in front of Uther.
"Finally, you are caught. Tell me why are you here?" Uther asked.
Myror remained quite.
"I very well know the reason for your sneaking in. You will be executed for your attempt to kill the prince of Camelot at the time of dawn." Uther announced his judgement. Myror tried to get released from the grip while the gaurds firmed their grips. Myror was taken to the dungeons and the council was dismissed.
Merlin, Alexia, Gaius and sir Leon along with few other knights were there.
Uther turned to Merlin and Alexia.
"Have you any word from Arthur since he left for the northern borders?" Uther asked.
"No. None." Merlin lied. Uther nodded.
"With this assassin in Camelot, we must be thankful Arthur wasn't here. Now he will executed tomorrow." Uther said. The knights bowed and left. Alexia, Gaius and Merlin did the same.
They entered the chambers.
"Thank the gods the assassin is captured." Alexia said.
Gaius nodded.
Merlin moved towards the corner and brought out the chicken. He placed the cooked chicken on the table as Gaius entered.
"Dinner's ready." Merlin said cheerfully. He then looked at Alexia. "What I said this morning..." Merlin said looking at Gaius. But Gaius stopped him.
"It is I who should be apologising to you. I have failed to appreciate just how heavy your burden must be." Gaius apologized.
"I shouldn't have lost my temper with you." Merlin protested.
"It's no wonder you're upset. There's so much resting on your young shoulders. Both of you. Now that Arthur's away, you both must take time to enjoy yourself." Gaius said. At this Alexia and Merlin looked surprised.
"What about the leech tank?" Merlin and Alexia asked.
"Don't even think about the leech tank." Gaius said.
"Really?" Merlin asked.
"All this talk of leeches will put us off our dinner. Where'd that chicken come from?" Gaius asked.
Merlin looked stumped but Alexia handled.
"Actually Merlin was guilty for snapping at you, so we took few of our savings and bought us a chicken for our special dinner." Alexia said. Gaius looked at them surprised.
"You both never cease to amaze me!" Gaius exclaimed. The trio laughed and continued their meal.
Arthur and Gwen were eating their dinner happily.
"So, do I have any more annoying habits you wish to tell me about?" Arthur drinking water from his cup.
"No, none." Gwen smiled.
"There's something else, isn't there? What is it?" Arthur asked with a teasing smile.
"Well, the truth is...you snore." Gwen finally said.
"I do not snore." Arthur said looking offended.
"You do. The first night you were here, I thought a pig had got into the house." Gwen said laughing.
"So now I'm a pig. Thank you, Guinevere." Arthur said mocking.
"I just meant you sound like a pig. I think I better stop talking." Gwen said and stood up to clear the table.
"I'll do that." Arthur said offering his help.
"Where did you get those plates?" Gwen asked, getting up to take a look at plates.
"From...the cupboard?" Arthur tried.
Gwen took a plate.
"They have the royal seal. They're from the palace kitchens. I've washed enough of them to know. I take it that's where our food also came from." Gwen said while Arthur placed his head in his hand and turned.
"Look, I can kill a chicken from a thousand paces, just don't ask me to cook it. That's what servants are for." Arthur said but stopped as he saw the look on Gwen's face. "I didn't mean it like that." Arthur said.
"I'm not ashamed to be a servant. At least I'm not a liar." Gwen snapped.
"We had a nice meal together. What does it matter where it came from?" Arthur asked not understanding the situation.
"Because I thought you'd shown some humility! You'd done something kind for me even though I'm just a servant! A good king should respect his people, no matter who they are." Gwen told him turning to leave.
"Guinevere." Arthur said grabbing her harm gently. "I know I have much to learn. There are some things that I am terrible at - cooking being one of them. But also, knowing what to say to someone I care about." Arthur said.
Gwen looked at him.
"I hope you would understand." He said and then turned. Gwen finally nodded a bit. Arthur sighed in relief.
"Thank you. I'll sleep on the floor tonight." Arthur offered.
"No, have my bed. You need to be well rested for the tournament tomorrow." Gwen said.
"I'll not hear of it. Goodnight, Guinevere." Arthur said.
"Goodnight." Gwen wished.
"Goodnight." Arthur wished back.
He lied on the floor and tried to sleep but kept tossing.
He finally calmed himself and slept.
In Gaius's chambers, Merlin and Alexia cleared the table after dinner.
"It's good Myror is captured." Gaius said.
Merlin and Alexia both nodded. They shared a smirk. Finally they entered the chambers.
"Alexia, thank you." Merlin said smiling.
"Merlin, we did it." Alexia said. Merlin nodded and they lied to sleep. Merlin's thought went back to the time when Alexia informed him about Myror. The pair had just returned from the second day, when Myror left after talking to them.
After tending the horse as per Arthur's orders, Alexia dragged Merlin in some isolated place.
"Merlin, the man we met now, he is Myror, an assassin." Alexia told Merlin.
Merlin's brow furrowed in confusion.
"Odin sent him to kill Arthur." Alexia added.
"Why would he send an assassin to kill Arthur?" Merlin asked. Alexia thought for a moment.
"I don't remember, it's more than years I saw the episode. Maybe because Arthur killed Odin's son. I am not sure. But that's not important. There is an assassin who is there to kill Arthur!" Alexia exclaimed. Merlin nodded.
The pair then formed a plan to stop the attack. And now they were successful.
During midnight, warning bells tolled. Arthur, Gwen woke up. Merlin and Alexia too woke up.
"Now what?" Merlin asked.
They rushed out to see Gaius awoke.
"What happened?" They asked.
Gaius too looked confused. The trio left the chambers, when they met sir Edward in the corridors.
"Sir Edward!" Alecia called.
"What happened?" She asked.
"Myror escaped." He said.
"What?" Merlin and Alexia exclaimed shocked.
Edward held Alexia's hands.
"Don't worry. We will find him soon." He said squeezing them. Alexia nodded. Edward then left with knights.
"What's going on?" Arthur asked, as he heard bells chiming at distance.
"I don't know, but I think we should wait. Merlin and Alexia will definitely tell us." Gwen told him.
Arthur nodded but paced, becoming restless.
As predicted, Merlin and Alexia entered Gwen's house.
"Arthur!" Merlin and Alexia called.
Arthur quickly moved to his sword.
"What happened?" Arthur asked.
"Myror escaped." Merlin replied.
"Myror?" Arthur asked.
"When we gave you food..." At this Gwen turned to Arthur. "...we left, but we saw someone. We reported to the patrols and they were able to capture him. The court was held and we got to know that he was an assassin here to kill you. Odin sent an assassin to kill you. He was to be executed tomorrow, but it appears he escaped." Alexia explained.
Arthur sheathed his sword. Gwen gasped.
"Why would Odin want you dead?" Gwen asked.
"Because I killed his son. Odin's son challenged me to a fight. I had no quarrel with him. I asked him to withdraw. Perhaps he felt he had to prove himself. I can still see his face. He looked so scared." Arthur told them with a regretful look on his face.
"You cannot blame yourself." Gwen comforted.
"We have a major problem. Myror knows where you are Arthur. He will attack again." Alexia warned.
"How do you know?" Arthur asked.
"Last time he was caught near this place only. We believe he knows that you are here." Merlin said.
"Then I have to move quickly." Arthur said.
"I don't think so it will be a wise decision. The Camelot patrol of gaurds are patrolling everywhere." Alexia said. Arthur sighed.
"Then I have to stay here only." He said.
Alexia and Merlin nodded.
"You have to stay on gaurd. But it would easy. I don't think Myror will attack you tonight." Alexia confessed. Arthur narrowed his eyes at her before nodding.
"I believe I will be staying here only." He said turning to Gwen.
"There won't be any problem." Gwen reassured.
"Good night Arthur, Gwen." Alexia wished and the magical pair turned to leave.
"Good night Alexia, Merlin." Gwen greeted them back.
Next morning arrived. Arthur prepared himself to leave for the tournament. He stood there tying his cloak to leave. Gwen stood in front of him.
"One more match. The tournament will be over." Arthur said, smiling, and surprisingly it was sad.
"You can go back to being Prince Arthur." Gwen said with a fake cheer. Arthur looked around while Gwen fiddled with a white ribbon.
"Erm...I thought you might wear it...for luck." She offered the ribbon.
"Thank you." Arthur said taking it.
The pair looked at each other before Arthur leaned forward placing his lips on her. Gwen closed her eyes in anticipation, a bit shocked.
They part after few moments. Both looked a bit awkward. Before Arthur finally broke the silence, as the words left his mouth, "I must go."
Arthur opened the door and exited while Gwen stood back, closing her eyes, and gulped.
Arthur moved through the town covering himself with cloak.
Myror watched Arthur meeting Merlin and Alexia in the street on his way to the tournament grounds. He followed them and reached the tournament grounds.
Alexia and Merlin helped Arthur to get ready. Myror arrived outside the tent and peeked inside the tent.
His eyes fell on William, who passed his helmet to Arthur while saying, "They're ready for you, Sire."
Myror stepped back and looked around. His eyes fell on another knight.
"Sir Alinor, good luck in the final." Another passing knight wished shaking his hand.
Myror moved towards sir Alinor as he entered his tent. As Myror was about to enter, his steps changed and moved towards another path.
Myror tried to return but his feet didn't comply. Myror walked helplessly towards an isolated place. His eyes were filled with shock and surprise.
As his feet stopped, he looked around. But saw nothing. He heard sounds of approaching footsteps and quickly turned to the sound finding Alexia. Alexia stared at the man with a cold glare.
"You? You brought me here?" Myror asked.
Alexia nodded briskly. Myror quickly tried to attack her only to find his feet stuck.
He looked down.
"You have magic." He said shocked.
Alexia gave another nod.
"You have two options. Either leave or die." Alexia said.
"I won't leave." Myror said. His voice dangerous. He quickly moved his hand towards his wrist and brought out a dagger.
He threw the dagger at Alexia who stopped it with a flash of gold from her eyes.
"I am sorry." She said and the dagger was shot back at the assassin.
Alexia sighed in grief and left the place.
As she reached back, William was standing in the stadiums, cheering the crowd. A small smile made its way on her face as she realised that Gwen finally gave Arthur a positive lesson on humility. Her eyes fell on the trio whom she was searching.
Merlin, Gwen, and cloaked Arthur were laughing and smiling as William celebrated victory to wild applause. She moved towards them. Merlin glanced at her questioningly and Alexia gave a positive nod. Merlin smiled in relief.
And the silent exchange went unnoticed by the once and future king and queen.
Arthur stood before the court.
"I didn't find any assassin on my way. Probably he returned as he was not able to find me in Camelot." Arthur said evenly.
"Odin must be made to pay for his actions. We must strike back at him." Uther said.
"Surely you understand the grief he feels for the loss of his son? We should try to make peace with him. There's been enough bloodshed." Arthur insisted.
"Perhaps you're right. How was the rest of your trip? Fruitful?" Uther asked turning to the topic of the imaginary magical threat.
"Very. I learned a great deal. How was the tournament?" Arthur said looking at Gwen with a mysterious smile adorning his face before turning back to his father.
"Excellent. We have a new champion, Sir William of Daira." Uther informed his son. Still unaware of the truth.
"I'm sorry I missed all the excitement" Arthur said with fake regret.
Alexia, Merlin and Gwen suppressed a smile.
The courtiers exited into the corridor. Arthur checked to check that his father wasn't looking and turned to Gwen.
"Guinevere." He called before clearing his throat. "What happened while I was staying with you...I'm afraid my father would never understand." He informed her.
"You don't have to explain. Perhaps when you are King, things will be different." Gwen replied calmly.
But before they could say anything else, Uther's voice broke the conversation. "Arthur?" Uther called his son. Arthur quickly turned around and left. Gwen too saw Arthur retreating with half heart before leaving.