Chapter Seven
His Lady, Her Champion
–
The only way to make a man trustworthy
is to trust him.
–
"I'm sorry," said Morgana sheepishly, "you know, again."
"Oh, shut up," said Arthur, refusing to chance a glance at her as she adjusted her new pale nightgown that Valiant hadn't had the opportunity to destroy.
Morgana had discarded the torn dress and poured her aching body into a favored nightgown that Uther had given her for her most recent birthday. Arthur shooed Merlin into the hall and waited most uneasily outside her changing screen. He'd refused to let her alone after such an ordeal. Morgana protested his request at first, but she soon conceded due to her previous debacle and felt she owed Arthur an incident without argument for once.
"It's just that I'm so sorry–" she began feverishly, returning from behind the screen and peering up at the prince with doe eyes.
"Morgana," Arthur began slowly, emphasizing each syllable of her name in a way that would usually drive her mad if he'd said it on any other day. "I heard you the first dozen times you've apologized, so you can stop groveling now. It's getting a bit pathetic. I know you were only trying to help even if it was stupid and naïve and every other synonym that goes along with moronic. You care about me, and I adore you for it. I just need you to know that if you're looking to protect me then never place yourself in danger again... because... well, you know what I'd give up to keep you from harm."
"The very same price I would pay to protect you," said Morgana in a solemn voice.
Arthur swallowed hard, unable to formulate a reply. Morgana knew that Arthur understood what she meant. She was implying that they would give each of their lives to protect the other, they always had and they always would.
"Er– sorry to interrupt but–"
"Merlin, do you mind?" Arthur sneered.
"It's not me, it them," said Merlin, motioning towards Sir Leon and Sir Pellinor behind him.
"Oh," said Arthur, clearing his throat and stiffening his posture. Morgana blushed and cleared her throat, suddenly becoming fascinated with the stone ground. "Yes?"
"Sire, the King is most anxious to speak with you," said Sir Leon on a voice that led Arthur to believe that his best knight may have just been on the receiving end of an Uther tantrum. "He's grown tired of awaiting your presence and has thus moved into your chambers. He wished for us to inform you that a response from King Urien has been received."
"It seems to be of the utmost importance, sire," added Sir Pellinor sheepishly, confirming Arthur's previous thought.
"Of course," said the prince, "I'll just be a moment more. I will meet you outside my chambers."
The guards closed the door behind themselves and a very uneasy-looking Merlin to give the two royals a minute more of privacy. Arthur's stature noticeably relaxed as soon as he heard the latch click.
"What is that all about?" asked Morgana. "Is he looking to shout at you again?"
"No," said Arthur quietly, "not just that at least."
"Then what could he possibly want with you at this hour?" she went on.
"It's none of your concern, Morgana," he replied.
Morgana had no intention of being left out of the loop of important affairs concerning Camelot. She was the king's ward and a citizen of Camelot and deserving of the same knowledge as Uther and Arthur for that matter. There was so many secrets, so many unanswered questions in her life recently that she couldn't stand the idea of ending up with another number of enigmas to uncover. She wore her biggest enigma around her bloody neck for pity's sake.
"You know that I have my means of finding out whatever information I desire," she said. "I might as well hear it from the source."
Arthur rolled his eyes at her. He knew she was right. When Morgana wanted to get her claws on desired information then she would have no trouble doing so. Half the time, Morgana knew news before Arthur even heard it from Uther himself. It was bizarre, really. The prince sighed heavily and walked to the entrance, locking the latch for good measure before returning before the raven-haired beauty.
"There has been some suspicious activity in Kent," said Arthur.
"Hengist and Horsa's kingdom?"
"The very same," Arthur nodded. "They've been sending out small numbers of guards across the lands recently. It appears as if they are in search of something."
"What?"
"We don't know," said Arthur, "but whatever they're looking for cannot be good."
Morgana's stomach lurched. Hengist and Horsa were two of the most infamously cruel tyrants on earth. They'd killed thousands of their own people, making Uther's magical purge seem like child's play. They were brothers, splitting the Kingdom of Kent down the middle to equally rule their birthright. Morgana remembered tales of the two tyrants from her father during her youth. He told her terrible stories of the kings, sending chills down her spine. She'd heard little from Kent since she moved from Cornwall to Camelot, but she did know Uther and the Hengist and Horsa were on far from agreeable terms.
"But if you don't know what they are searching for then you cannot deny the possibility that it could be nothing," she replied. "A few random search parties cannot be cause for concern even for someone as clinically paranoid as your father."
"You know Hengist and Horsa's history," said Arthur fiercely, ignoring her snide comment about Uther. "They have never been involved with anything that wasn't of Camelot's concern. They are two of the most barbaric kings in the lands. For pity's sake, Morgana, they've killed their own people, innocent people and–"
"As has your father," said Morgana swiftly.
"I said innocent people," said Arthur.
"I heard you," she said poignantly, "and I do not retract my statement."
"I'm in no mood–" Arthur started, heading for the door.
"No, wait," said Morgana in an annoyed tone, grabbing his arm before he could depart. "I'm sorry, go on."
"As I was saying," he frowned, "it isn't just the sudden surge of search activity that has Father worried. The Kingdom of Kent is also building up an army, larger than ever before. They've sunk as low as beckoning the recruitment of slave traders and thieves to grow in number. I've sent Sir Bedivere to intercept any word from our sources in Shallot and Benar. He is expected to return to Camelot within the next day or so with a number estimate of their army's soldiers."
"They're building up an army?" said Morgana dumbly, a bit breathless.
"Yes, and it gets worse," said Arthur. "Many of the knights have heard word from some informants that Cenred wishes to soil his hands in this mess as well. His men have been rumored to have been seen camped on the boarder of Kent time and again over the last month or so."
"Hengist and Horsa have never been ones to seek out allies unless they have something or at the very least know something of value to them," said Morgana wisely, remembering her father's commentary on them a decade prior. "So if Cenred is involved then he must be useful to their cause in one way or another."
"Yes, and it is illogical to believe Cenred would seek out the Kingdom of Kent of all places as an ally for Escetia unless he has something to gain," said Arthur firmly, "or any kingdom for that matter. He is a notorious isolationist, even from the very villages in his kingdom. It's odd that the most well-known kings to exclude themselves from any external contact would suddenly become allies with one another."
"But what is there to gain for either of them?" asked Morgana.
"That's the question we need answered," said Arthur. "It is safe to say that Hengist and Horsa could and would benefit from Escetia's army. Because though Cenred's army is not nearly as well trained or as brutal as their own, there is no denying that the sheer size of his force is far greater than any other."
"Nearly every other kingdom in the land would have to join together to have any hope to defeat such a powerful adversary," said Morgana thoughtfully.
"Precisely," said Arthur. "Therefore, Father and I have organized an open forum between Camelot and some of the nobles from our current and potential allies. King Urien of Gore, King Pelles and Queen Mina of Corbenic, King Nentres and Queen Elaine of Garlot, King Bors of Gaunnes, and King Lot and Queen Morcada of Lothian are those invited to attend among our bordering allies as well."
"Gore?" said Morgana with an upward inflection. "Urien's kingdom neighbors Cornwall on the Isle of Eire. I've been there a number of times in my youth when accompanying my father on business, but why is Camelot seeking out such utterly foreign allies? And Lothian... isn't that in the Orkney region? That's even further away than Eire."
"Because we fear that it is only a matter of time before Kent and Escetia spread their wicked hands to foreign kingdoms," said Arthur. "We need to know that Camelot retains enough allied forces to keep our enemies at bay."
"There must be something else, Arthur, something you're not telling me," said Morgana anxiously. "You cannot tell me that Uther is this worked up over a potential conflict that he doesn't even know exists. It's preposterous."
"There is something else," said Arthur nervously.
"What is it?"
"I– I don't really understand it myself, but as soon as Father heard word... I'd never seen him so unnerved," said Arthur.
"And that's saying something considering it is Uther," said Morgana. "Whatever had him so upset?"
"It was more of a – who – that a what to be perfectly honest," said the prince. "A woman named Nimueh."
"Nimueh?"
"Well, Queen Nimueh of Kent now I suppose," said Arthur. "She's just married King Hengist, and it's rumored she's behind the previous queen's sudden death – poison."
"So Uther knew of her before, I wager?"
"It seems so," Arthur nodded.
"What about her is so worrisome besides her apparent poisoning hobby?"
"Father knows her to have magic," said Arthur.
"Of course he does," said Morgana dryly, rolling her eyes.
"Dark magic, Morgana, the very darkest," he replied. "She's an immortal, a timeless being of the Old Religion. There is no telling what she is capable of and with forces like Hengist, Horsa and Cenred behind her... I cannot even bare to think of the consequences."
"So Uther thinks this Nimueh may have something to do with whatever Hengist and Horsa are searching for?" asked Morgana.
"He fears it," said Arthur. "I think he knows, or at least suspects what it is they're after, but he seems to not be willing to entrust me with such classified information."
"That's ridiculous," said Morgana. "You are his son and just as worthy–"
"I am not worthy," said Arthur without thinking.
He closed his eyes in thought but kept silent while Morgana stared on at his forehead. After a minute of eerie quiet, Morgana extended her arm and placed a soft hand upon Arthur's cheek.
"You really believe that?" she asked gently.
"Respect has to be earned," he replied.
"Arthur–" she started.
"I should have dealt with Valiant on my own," he interrupted. "I shouldn't have raised my voice to my father in council. What little trust and respect he had in me is not nonexistent."
"Arthur, look at me," she said kindly but with determination. She put pressure onto Arthur's shoulder cheek until he finally turned to face her. "I've known you all my life. You're like my brother, my other half, and of all the people I've met in my life I can think of no one I would rather see rule Camelot. You will make a great king someday, and Uther knows that deep down as well as I do. Never let that man make you think that you are not worthy, because you are."
Arthur smiled feebly, releasing a half-laugh as he tossed his head back. He regained his composure and placed his bent index finger under Morgana's chin and tilted her face up to meet his eyes. He smiled in a sort of victorious way and gnawed on the inside of the cheek she had just released.
"You know, you can be almost bearable when you want to be," he teased, placing a platonic kiss on her forehead and pulled away to meet her gaze again. "Almost."
"Shove off," Morgana laughed, pushing his chest affectionately. "Just go see to your father, who I'm certain will give you all the top secret information you so desperately yearn for. I'll see you tomorrow after you defeat Valiant."
"Goodnight, milady," said Arthur mockingly, bowing in a less than princely manner.
"Goodnight, Prince Prat," she laughed, watching as he unlatched her lock. "Oh, and Arthur," she said swiftly, causing him to cease his motions and look at her. "Thank you."
"For what exactly?" he smirked, fearing he was about to walk into one of her snide remarks.
"For everything," she smiled feebly. "Thank you for the whole Valiant incident and for trusting me just now."
"It was nothing," he laughed lightly.
"And although I know you don't want to hear it – I am sorry, again," she said, continuing before Arthur could cut in. "Sometimes I forget how much you truly carry on your shoulders, and I think I only add to the weight you lug around so modestly."
"Oh, Morgana," Arthur smiled. "There is no other weight I'd rather slug over my shoulders than you."
"How gallant," Morgana teased, smiling despite herself as he closed the door behind him, sending her a final fleeting wink.
Morgana pressed her ear against the wooden frame, listening to Arthur's footsteps becoming quieter and quieter as he distanced himself from her chambers. As soon as she could no longer here his boots against the stone floor, Morgana peeked open the door. Just as she suspected, she spotted a blue eyed young servant slinking from behind a heavy maroon curtain and darting down the corridor. She knew Merlin would take the opportunity to eavesdrop, because she would have done the same thing if she were in his position. They were a lot alike, she and Merlin, and she was only beginning to realize just how much. Smiling to herself, Morgana closed the door quietly behind her, hoping Merlin would find away to help Arthur that was actually successful. All she could do was hope for the best and prepare for the worst now.
–
Merlin closed the door behind him a bit too loudly for Gaius's liking when he entered the court physician's chambers later than usual. Gaius had nearly reached a deep sleep when his apprentice stormed into his quarters like a bat out of hell. Merlin didn't mean to cause such a commotion, but he had a lot on his mind and understandably so. He had yet to perfect his spell to call out the snakes from Valiant's shield, and now he realized that Camelot was in an equal mess of trouble in foreign standards. Was this really his destiny, being the secret guardian of the kingdom, of Arthur? He didn't know how successful he'd be at such a task.
"For goodness sake, Merlin, could make any more of a racket?" asked Gaius, sitting up from his half-conscious state.
"Sorry, Gaius," he replied in a much more quiet manner than before. "I just have a lot on my mind."
"Something besides or in addition to the tournament final tomorrow?" asked Gaius, rubbing his eyes.
Merlin noticed a plate of bread and cheese that the physician had laid out for him. The young warlock looked appreciative to have something to settle his aching stomach, having missed a proper dinner. Merlin sat down on Gaius's bench and dug into his meal, looking over to the elderly man to reply.
"I sort of– let's say... overheard Arthur and Morgana in her chambers–" he began.
"Oh, Merlin, tell me they're not still up to that nonsense after all these years," said Gaius, cringing at the thought. "The Court is still talking about the broom closet incident."
"What?" said Merlin, slightly choking on his food as Gaius's sentiment sunk in. "No – oh – EW! No, I didn't overhear that. Have they been known to do that? Er– nevermind, don't tell me. I don't want to know the answer."
"What did you overhear then?" asked Gaius.
"I don't really know," said Merlin. "I just know it isn't good."
"You're going to have to do better than that," he replied.
"Hengist and Horsa's kingdom," said the young warlock.
"The Kingdom of Kent, yes," said Gaius, urging him to continue.
"Arthur said that Uther is worried they're after something," said Merlin, "like they're searching for something of great concern to Camelot. They've been building up an army apparently as well, conspiring with Escetia."
"Though that is disconcerting," he replied. "I would not worry to terribly much about Kent and Escetia. Their kingdoms are always up to something no good, but they typically fail in their efforts – whatever they may be – because they are not prone to seeking out allies."
"Yes, Arthur said that too," Merlin nodded, swallowing a healthy swig of water.
"See, nothing to fret about," said Gaius.
"But something has Uther unnerved," he said, "someone– some woman or some sorceress has recently married King Hengist and was rumored to have even poisoned his previous wife."
"Did you catch her name?" asked the physician, yawning.
"Um, Nimueh," said Merlin. "Yes, that's right. I suppose she's now Queen Nimueh of Kent officially, however."
When Merlin told Gaius of the Everstone, the unique gem he'd seen around Morgana's neck, he'd decided Gaius could not have looked more disturbed. However, the expression on Gaius's face had shadowed his look from before. Gaius appeared terrified, shell shocked and mortified. Merlin eyed him curiously, wishing Gaius would snap out of his sudden rigidity.
"It can't be," he finally muttered, more to himself than to his apprentice.
"You know of her then?" said Merlin anxiously, earnestly.
"Oh, yes," said Gaius, "as do you."
"What?"
"You remember the story of the five creators of the Everstone, the creatures of the Old Religion I told you about?" said Gaius.
"Of course," Merlin nodded.
"And you also recall the traitor, the greedy, power hungry enchantress who caused the stone to be broken?"
"Yes–" Merlin began, gnawing on Gaius's words. "Oh, Gaius, you don't mean she's–."
"The very same," said Gaius.
"Where has she been for all these years?" asked Merlin.
"I haven't heard hide nor hair from her in two decades now," said Gaius, "but I wager she was back in Avalon – if she was allowed to return that is."
"Wait, you mean you saw her?" asked Merlin
"It's hard not to when you serve on the same court," said Gaius casually.
Merlin had been mindlessly plopping torn up pieces of bread in his mouth like a fascinated child, listening to a fairytale, and when Gaius finished his last sentence, Merlin choked on a piece of his food in shock.
"She was on Camelot's court?" Merlin gasped.
"And a close, personal friend of the king himself," said Gaius. "You know Uther didn't always despise magic as he does now."
"But i– if Nimueh was as evil as you say..." said Merlin, thoughtfully. "Why would Uther allow her in Camelot, let alone befriend her?"
"Uther never knew of her past, and I'll be honest, Merlin," said Gaius, "it didn't seem to matter then. She didn't resemble anything remotely wicked. In fact, she was kind, genuinely kind. Not once did I doubt her loyalty and friendship. I believed her time in solitude, just her banishment in general, had changed her for the better. And I know, deep down, that if Ygraine had not passed and Uther had not sought out the deaths of all those with magic... she would have remained as uncorrupted and benevolent as before. Uther killed her own, and she wanted revenge. And I saw the look in her eye the night she escaped into the darkness, whatever beast had been sleeping inside her – had awoken."
Merlin swallowed hard.
"The only way to seek revenge on Camelot would be with a fierce army," said the young warlock nervously.
"A fierce immortal army would be more Nimueh's style," said Gaius solemnly, "and to do that, she would need a weapon, more powerful than any other."
"You don't think–"
"I fear, Merlin," Gaius began slowly, poignantly even, "I fear that Morgana is in great danger."
"How would Nimueh even know Morgana is in possession of a piece of the Everstone?" he asked.
"Nimueh is a maker," said the elderly man. "Though she does not attain any measure of the stone she wielded, she was blessed with the gift of alchemy, and the power to detect the stone to which she created."
"But Morgana found the stone recently," said Merlin. "If she found it then that means–"
"It was inactive for some time," said Gaius. "The stone can only be detected when it is being warn, when someone of magic is controlling it."
"The only way for Nimueh to reclaim the Everstone would be..." Merlin paused, chewing on his next words, "to kill her, wouldn't it?"
"Yes, and I fear that is a strong possibility," said Gaius, "but Nimueh must also know that the Everstone was bonded on unity and it attains it's power from just that. If Nimueh was smart, and I know that she is, then she will attempt to persuade Morgana to help her, and whomever else wields pieces of the stone. You must remember, Merlin, that there are four pieces in existence and Morgana is but one."
"Morgana would never betray Camelot," said Merlin.
"No, but I wouldn't be surprised if she questioned her loyalties to Uther," said Gaius. "Uther has killed and continues to kill those with magic, and she now knows that she is one of those magical beings. She could think that she has no other option but to kill or be killed."
"I won't let that happen," said Merlin firmly. "Nothing will happen to Arthur, Morgana or Camelot as long as I have breath in my body."
And Gaius knew, in his heart of hearts, that Merlin's words were true.
–
Morgana shot up from her slumber, the same terrible nightmare haunting her dreams. She saw Arthur, lying dead on the hard and unforgiving soil, a pool of blood seeping slowly through his chainmail. The screams from the crowd rang in her ears, causing her head to throb in pain. Her heart was pounding through her nightgown as Gwen entered her chambers, hoisting a tray of her mistress's breakfast in her hands. She glanced over at the shaky Morgana as she closed the door behind her, sending the raven-haired beauty a sympathetic expression. She set down the tray and hurried to Morgana's side, pulling her into a hug.
"Another nightmare?" asked Gwen kindly.
"It was so real," she breathed. "Arthur – dead."
"You must have faith, milady," said Gwen firmly. "Arthur is a skilled fighter, and I know he will come out victorious. You must believe in him too."
The young sorceress smiled fleetingly over the shoulder of her friend, tightening their embrace.
–
Gwen had just returned Morgana's breakfast tray to the kitchens, a tray her mistress had barely touched because of her nerves. She'd left Morgana's chambers after assisting her with her dress fastenings for the tournament and feast, leaving Morgana in an eerie state as she stared blankly out the window. She'd seen her mistress on edge before but nothing like this. She seemed jumpy, lost in her own thoughts, and she hadn't eaten a decent meal in what seemed like ages. Gwen hoped that after the tournament was over that Morgana would return to her usual bubbly self, but she thought better of it. She knew there was something else bothering Morgana, something that consumed her. Gwen wanted to press her mistress for information, but she knew that could only make the situation worse.
She had become lost in her own thoughts as she strode down the long castle corridors, on her way back to Morgana's chambers. She snapped back to reality as soon as she heard a familiar, typically irritating voice. Gwen tentatively peeked inside a nearby open doorway.
"You're even more incompetent than Merlin, Mylor," Arthur frowned, brushing him off and causing his metal shoulder cover to fall to the ground. Arthur was distracted and edgy from lack of sleep as he caught a glimpse of Morgana, staring distantly outside her open window from across the courtyard.
Mylor was not a fan of Arthur Pendragon and that was putting it lightly. Arthur and his moronic gang of merry men always sought out the gangly young servant to pick on when they were bored. He'd been used as a target, a footstool and countless other humiliating objects over his tenure as a castle servant. When Merlin was named as the prince's new personal servant, Mylor thought he would be spared any further humiliation thanks to Arthur. He was wrong. Arthur sacked Merlin which forced Mylor to pick up his slack. On a day that he would usually cut out early to go watch the tournament, Mylor was stuck dressing Arthur in his armor and failing miserably.
Gwen regally strode forward and knelt down to pick up the metal piece of armor, locking eyes with the kneeling Mylor. She sent him a gentle smile to imply her intentions, and he grinned thankfully in reply, disappearing out the door without Arthur noticing. She brushed off the shoulder protector and quietly approached the rigid postured prince. She carefully yet effectively latched on his missing piece of armor and then stepped before him to adjust his very crooked cape latch. It wasn't until then that Arthur noticed her, jumping slightly as soon as he realized Mylor had been replaced with Morgana's maid.
"Guinevere?" said Arthur.
"Mylor seemed to be having a bit of trouble," she smiled softly. "I figured you wouldn't mind someone a bit more experienced replacing him."
"Thank you," he nodded, smiling slightly.
She nodded in reply, snapping his cape in proper position. Gwen then surveyed the rest of the prince's armor, tightening and adjusting any ill placed pieces and fastenings. Arthur's eyes followed her as she seamlessly and meticulously fixed his chainmail. He decided her grace with armor was very impressive, like she was born to work with her hands in such a manner. Silence engulfed them for several minutes until Arthur decided he could no longer bare the thick uncomfortable air.
"Will you be watching the tournament?" asked the prince.
"Of course," she smiled gently. "I wouldn't dare miss your victory this afternoon."
"You think I will be victorious?" he smirked.
"I know you will," she said, handing him his helmet and giving him a once over glance to double check her work.
Arthur looked at Gwen, really looked. Sure, he'd known Gwen a very long time and seen her nearly every day, but he'd never truly seen her until now. Her skin appeared almost gold in the sunlight, and her eyes almost sparkled as hem memorized every golden speck in her chocolate brown irises. She was not exceptionally beautiful, not at all as gorgeous as the king's ward, but she attained a sort of subtle beauty that Arthur figured could be appreciated by many men. Then she smiled, flashing her perfect teeth and Arthur found it hard to breathe for a moment as her eyes lit up in a way he'd denied possible for any human being until now. He cleared his throat and blinked several times, smiling a bit awkwardly down at her.
"How could I not with such strong support?" he grinned.
–
Merlin had stayed up all night, all bloody night trying to master his spell. He was so frustrated, worried and exhausted that he could barely force the words from his chapped lips. He couldn't stop thinking, obsessing over the previous days' events as well as those he knew to be coming. It seemed like everyone was in danger, and he hoped this would not be a reoccurring habit. He sat on the ground, his head bobbing up and down as he repeated the spell over and over as his mouth became ever drier. Just as Merlin's eyelids began to close, he heard a vicious growl. Snapping his head upwards, Merlin came face to face with a live dog. He had transformed the statue into the creature that was carved in the stone. It snarled and barked at Merlin as he clambered to his feet and darted into the physician's chambers, slamming the door behind him just as the large dog leapt at him. The warlock peered out the nearby window, judging the sun's position for time. He was going to miss Arthur's match. He had to hurry before it was too late, so without another thought, Merlin was off for the arena.
–
Arthur chanced a glance at Morgana as she stared on eagerly, anxiously at him, nervously clutching the girth of her necklace. She sat beside Guinevere, who though appeared ill at ease, exhumed an undeniable air of regalement and confidence that made his entire frame relax only in the slightest. Arthur barely heard his father's grand introduction to the crowd as he stared on at the two women. Valiant glared at him with murderous eyes, determined and unyielding in his intentions. Arthur stared daggers back, reliving the undying urge to run him through after what he had done to Morgana, done to Sir Ewan, what he would do to Camelot. His teeth gritted, his muscles tensed, Arthur was ready for battle, ready to kill.
Merlin imagined he was attracting a decent amount of odd looks as he sprinted like the wind towards the tournament arena. He was wearing a less than suitable attire to be seen in public, even for servant standards. His hair flew in every which way as his unlaced shoe strings upon his raggedy boots did the same.
He was missing an intense match, as was to be expected between two mortal foes. Morgana and Gwen latched hands, squeezing each other ever tighter after every fierce blow. Valiant was enormous, his large frame towering the young prince. But Arthur made up for his unequal stature with his speed and impressive training and skill. However, it just wasn't enough this time as Valiant thrust forward and knocked Arthur's shield from his competent hands. The prince used his entire body to force Valiant up against the arena wall, causing the foreign knight's helmet to fall to the earth. Arthur, always the honorable opponent, took a step backwards and removed his own. It was a fair fight to the naïve onlookers.
Morgana was on the verge of screaming as she bottled up all of her anxiety within her chest, nearly shattering her maid's tiny hand in agony. Sir Leon, Sir Pellinor and the rest of the Camelot knights held their breath from behind the two women whilst Uther gripped the arms of his throne hard enough to splinter the wood. Just as the fighting resumed, Merlin rounded the dirt path to the arena, barreling by mindless bystanders. He arrived just as Valiant knocked Arthur's sword from his hands, rendering him defenseless. Morgana spotted the blue-eyed servant out of the corner of her eye. She had been wondering where the boy had been throughout the match.
As Arthur looked about frantically for any sort of weapon to protect himself, Merlin extended his palm. The king's ward quickly looked back onto Arthur and Valiant, she wouldn't have the power to tear her eyes away from the warlock if Gwen's grip hadn't tightened to a point of sheer pain. Snakes began to show themselves from Valiant's shield, just as Arthur and Merlin had claimed.
"Morgana," Gwen gasped, staring on at the helpless Arthur.
Not missing a beat, Morgana turned back and snatched up a sword from Sir Leon's holster.
"Arthur!" she shouted, catching his attention.
Morgana tossed the sword gracefully into Arthur's capable hands and with one fatal blow he had decapitated the magical reptiles. Then he thrust his blade through Valiant's abdomen.
"I guess I'll be going to the feast after all," said Arthur in the dying man's ear. Then he pulled his sword from Valiant's torso and watched the once intimidating figure crumble and die at his hand.
After bowing with a relieved expression to the cheering crowd, Arthur humbly departed out of the arena where he spotted his ex-manservant. Merlin was smiling like a giddy child as the prince approached. He stopped before Merlin, patting his shoulder.
"We were right," said Arthur as if he had known all along and didn't question Merlin's intentions once.
"Yeah, I guess we were," Merlin smiled.
"You know, I've been thinking about the whole sacking you thing..."
"Have you?" said Merlin with an upward inflection, knowing exactly what was coming.
"I may have been a bit rash when I sacked you," said Arthur pompously, "and it turns out that Mylor is even less qualified to dress me in my armor than you – if that is even possible."
"He must really be dreadful then," said Merlin, playing along for Arthur's sake.
"Yes, so I figure... if you'd like your job back... it's yours," said Arthur shyly, "it always was."
"Will there be a raise in my wages?" asked the warlock in jest.
"No," Arthur replied.
"A week's holiday?"
"Definitely not," said the prince.
"Well, I suppose I can live with that," said Merlin, grinning comically.
"Good, I've got a list of chores on my dresser awaiting you," said Arthur, turning to depart to change for the feast. "I'll need my boots shined, my sword sharpened, my robes pressed..."
Arthur affectionately slapped Merlin's shoulder as he left him standing alone against the arena's wall. The crowd began to depart the arena, filing through the exits, forcing Merlin against the stone wall. His grin never faded, that is until his eyes fell upon Morgana. She was standing alone in the stands, staring silently at Merlin as if he were a ghost. Merlin swallowed hard, feeling a bit exposed. He stared back at her for a moment before wordlessly slipping inside the faceless crowd and disappearing from sight.
Had Merlin used magic to force the snakes from the shield? Morgana didn't know for certain, but she felt as if everything was about to add up.
–
"My Lady," Arthur bowed, extending his bent arm to Morgana.
"My Champion," said Morgana, curtsying before accepting the prince's mannerly gesture.
It was a grand affair, there was no denying that fact. The Great Hall was decorated to perfection as the Lady and her Champion strode through the applauding lines of people. Countless candles gave the enchanting room an attractive dim glow as a sea of flowers exhumed a pleasurable aroma. Uther stood at the head table upon a dais, smiling proudly and applauding along side the other members of the court. He introduced the couple as the regally followed their path to the center of the hall. Arthur appeared tired but livelier than he'd been in days while Morgana looked lovely in her navy and maroon gown that had grown to become one of Arthur's favorites. The pair finally separated once they'd halted in the middle of the court, a coy smiles shared between the two.
"You're not disappointed that I'm escorting you rather than Valiant, are you?" asked Arthur sarcastically.
"Well, he is much more handsome–"
"Shut it," he laughed, tugging playfully on her hair.
"You are a charmer," she chuckled. Morgana caught a glance of Merlin from across the room as he balanced a tray of grapes, appearing rather bored. She wondered why anyone with magic would lower themselves to such monotonous work. Maybe her suspicions were wrong, only time would tell. "Did you apologize to Merlin for doubting him?"
"I rehired him if that's what you mean," said Arthur.
"I certainly wouldn't call that an apology," she smirked, "but I guess since it is you, that is the best he is going to get."
"Aren't you a peach," said Arthur, sending Morgana an irritatingly sardonic grin.
Just before Morgana began formulating a witty retort, she spotted the knight that Arthur had mentioned the previous evening. He approached Uther, looking rather tattered and exhausted, mud covering a significant amount of his attire. He held a slip of parchment in his hand that he passed on to the king, whispering fiercely away from any others who dare eavesdrop.
"It appears Sir Bedivere has returned," said Morgana, peering over Arthur's shoulder. The prince turned around, his arrogant grin fading. Without another word to Morgana, he strode off to speak to the two conversing men.
Merlin was about to fall asleep standing up. He hadn't slept in over a day, and he wanted nothing more than to crawl into his bed. However, he knew an early morning awaited him serving Arthur. He was dreading another full day of chores and other mindless tasks. He'd positioned his back against the wall so he could at least somewhat relax during his serving duties, propping his tray upwards. No one had really approached him seeing as several plates of grapes and other assorted fruit were already placed upon the long tables of food. He had become so relaxed that he nearly dropped his platter to the floor when someone happened to pluck a violet grape from his possession.
"Enjoying the feast, Merlin?" asked Morgana, elegantly plopping the grape in between her wine stained lips.
"As much as a servant can, milady," he smiled, trying not to appear to eager to survey any opportunity to chance a glance at her necklace.
"Yes, Arthur told me he rehired you," said Morgana. "How utterly generous of him."
Merlin snorted a laugh.
"Where did Prince Arthur disappear to?" asked Merlin. "I thought he was your escort."
"He went to speak with his father in private," said Morgana, nodding to the pair of them with Sir Bedivere as she casually sipped on her goblet.
"Oh," said Merlin, "I'm sure he'll rush back to you."
Morgana released a hollow laugh.
"I wager he becomes distracted with a nameless lady of the court halfway back to my side," said Morgana, sipping her wine again.
"But he is your escort," said Merlin. "Aren't the two of you..."
"Oh, not you too," said Morgana lightly. "Don't tell me you've bought in to that nonsense the court spouts about Arthur and I?"
"It is not my place to say, milady," said Merlin.
"Merlin, I think our relationship is beyond formalities," she grinned. "You may speak to me as candidly you wish."
"I was just implying that you and Arthur are well... said to be married and–"
"I'd sooner marry a swine – though I think that would be a step up," she joked. "No, Merlin, it is unlikely such a rumor would prove to be true. Arthur and I– well, I love him, but I am not in love with him. What we have is a whirlwind of lust with the occasional comic relief. If we were ever wedded then I fear we'd kill each other in a week's time. Besides, we are two perfectly good pawns for Uther to use in his wicked game of chess. We are potential bargaining chips to marry into allegiances with other kingdoms. I may get lucky enough to have the opportunity to choose the man I marry – if he is of the nobility that Uther sees fitting – but I am certain Arthur will be forced into an arranged marriage with some foreign princess sooner or later, but certainly not me."
Merlin smiled fleetingly, digesting her reply. He opened his mouth to reply, but he was abruptly interrupted by Arthur. He took a hasty hold of Morgana's arm and led her away from wandering ears. She seemed put off by his rude motions to drag her away from Merlin, crossing her arms and nearly spilling her drink with a smug look as soon as he released her.
"For a prince you are incredibly rude, do you realize that?" she snapped. "I was having a perfectly engaging conversation before you–"
"You were right," he smiled, ignoring her prior sentiments.
"I'm not surprised," she teased, "but about what this time?"
"Father, he confided in me," he beamed. "He shared the information from Sir Bedivere and with me, about everything. He must have some lingering feelings of respect for me."
"I told you so," she said as if addressing a small child. "Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm going to finish my conversation with Merlin."
"Aren't you anxious to know?"
"To know what exactly?"
"The device that Hengist, Horsa and Cenred are after?" said Arthur, obviously still high off his father's praise. "Aren't you curious to find out what it is?"
"Enlighten me," said Morgana dryly, twirling her wrist to create a spiral in her wine glass. She would have been more interested if Arthur wasn't acting like an unruly toddler.
"It's some sort of powerful magical weapon that Nimueh helped make ages ago or something like that," Arthur whispered fiercely. "It's called the Everstone."
Morgana's wine goblet fell from her grasp and onto the floor.
–
A/N: Thank you so much to everyone who reviewed last chapter. I truly appreciate it. I am so sorry that I took so long to update. I've been having a lot of family stuff going on as well as school related things happening as I near graduation. Please don't complain. I will try to be quicker to update from now on. I hope no one was too disappointed with this chapter. I know there wasn't a significant amount of one-on-one Merlin/Morgana contact though they did think/speak of one another a reasonable bit. The next chapter will make up for their lacking in this chapter.
PS: I hope I'm not piling too much plot on you guys at once. All you need to know is that Uther is suspicious of some neighboring kingdoms activities. Nimueh married a neighboring king and everyone appears to be in search of piecing together the Everstone. Morgana does not know of Merlin's magic but suspects he's hiding something to that nature. Gwen and Arthur are beginning to see each other in a different light.
PSS: Excuse typos for now.
Coming Soon: Merlin and Morgana grow closer, the Dragon has a couple unexpected house guests, another barer of the Everstone is welcomed into Camelot, magical tomfoolery continues...
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Review.