Hi again! Drum roll for the next chapter, please...
"He's here, Gaius," Merlin dashed into the chambers.
"Who's here?" Robyn asked, glancing up from a vial of purple liquid she was busy stirring.
"Nobody. Where's Gaius?"
"Merlin. Who. Is. Here?" her annoyed tone stopped him in his tracks. He put his hands on her shoulders.
"Robyn, promise me something,"
"What?"
"There's a man who's just arrived at the castle called The Witchfinder. His job is to hunt down sorcerers. And he's dangerous. Very dangerous. Stay out of his way, ok? Please?"
"Ok," she nodded.
"Oh, and don't use any magic in Camelot until he's gone. He shouldn't suspect you if you just act innocent." he paused. "I need to tell Gaius. Where is he?"
"He went to pick herbs. Something about Mortaeus flowers having more magical properties when picked under a full moon. He said he'd be back late."
Merlin chewed his lip anxiously. "Just when I needed him… I need to…"
"You need to go and serve Arthur's dinner, or you'll be late!"
"Yes, but…"
"Merlin! Come on!" Robyn exclaimed pushing him out of the room towards the kitchens.
Robyn nudged the door to the royal chambers open with her toe, expertly balancing the plates of food and jug of wine on a tray. She bowed her head respectfully towards the king and queen as she laid the food down on the table. Gwen smiled. "There's no need to bow. You're Robyn, Merlin's sister, aren't you?"
Arthur broke into the conversation. "That reminds me, where is Merlin?"
"Um, he should be here – he was following me when I left the kitchens," Robyn frowned. At that very moment, Merlin dashed into the room.
"Sorry I'm late, sire! Oh no – I forgot the food! I'll…"
"Merlin," Gwen laughed. "Robyn just brought it in…" she stopped, seeing the worry clouding Merlin's face. "What's wrong?"
"What… me… oh, it's nothing," he forced a smile back onto his face.
"It's the Witchfinder, isn't it?" Gwen said in realisation. "You're scared of him."
Arthur sighed. "Don't be such a girl, Merlin. It's a different witchfinder to the last one – you won't get accused again!"
"Don't worry," Gwen said kindly.
Impulsively, Robyn hugged him. "I won't let him hurt you," she said obstinately, getting a laugh from the two royals.
"No, it's not that…" Merlin hesitated, searching for an excuse to avoid embarrassment. "… I… I just have a headache, that's all. It's nothing."
"Really?" Arthur questioned.
"It's nothing," Merlin repeated, forcefully. Arthur wasn't convinced, but he had learnt from experience, and didn't push Merlin any further.
So there you go! What do you think? Review/follow/favourite and generally be awesome, cos I know you guys are! :)
RedDragon Xx