The Once and Future Queen

by Bringmebacktoreality

In amongst the old prophecies from an age long ago, it has been foretold that by the side of the once and future king of Albion there is the once and future queen. It is she who would be his most trusted advisor, his true love and his closet friend. The only question is, when he finds her, will she accept her destiny or fight against it?

18. Chapter 18

A/N: Oh my god, this is probably the longest chapter I have ever written but "Gwaine" was always one of my favourite episodes and he will forever be my favourite knight so when I started writing I just kept on going and going and this is the end result. we get to see more of Kara's past in this chapter which I think is pretty cool but I'll let you guys decided that for yourselves. Love you all and thank for reading xx Now onto the chapter

Merlin and Arthur rode through the green forest before coming to stop on a small hill looking over a tiny village 'You know what you need after a hard day's hunt?' Arthur questions his manservant

'Sleep.' merlin states, carrying the birds Arthur caught while the man in question held his crossbow in his hands.

'A nice cold tankard of mead.'

'Mead?' merlin says, completely unimpressed before following after Arthur. The two dismount and tie up their horses once they reached the small village.

'No better place to measure the mood of your people than the local tavern.' Arthur said with a smile.

'This is one of those moments where I tell you something isn't a good idea and you ignore me, isn't it?' merlin guessed

'You're learning, Merlin. Slowly, but you're learning.' Arthur says and merlin rolls his eyes 'Now, remember, in here you're not my servant, I'm just a simple peasant like everyone else.' Arthur says before walking towards the tavern

'Simple part's right.' merlin mutters as he joins arthur

'what?' Arthur asks

'I said, the sun is very bright.' merlin lies looking up and Arthur nods

'Yeah. Yeah, it is.'

The tavern was loud with chatter and laughter as men feasted on food and wasted away with their mead. Arthur and Merlin found an empty table and took a seat. A woman they guessed the innkeeper came towards them

'Afternoon. What'll it be?' she asks clearing off the tbale

'Er...' Arthur says looking around, trying to figure out what to get.

'Mmm... You're an handsome fellow.' the woman states and Arthur turns back around

'Well, you wouldn't be the first to say it.' he says and merlin rolls his eyes at the arrogance in his voice.

'Oh, no, sorry. I was talking about your friend here.' the woman says looking at merlin.

'Him?' Arthur question stunned, after all this had never happened before.

'Thank you.' merlin says pleased

'Two tankards of mead, please!' Arthur says annoyed and the woman left and merlin turned back to look at Arthur smiling

'I was wrong, coming here was a great idea.' Arthur rolls his eyes when the door opens and a n ugly looking man walks in. The tavern goes quiet the minute he enters. The man throws the dishes held by a waitress and Arthur looks up over his tankard of mead'Afternoon, Mary. Business looks good.' he says to the woman that was just at Arthur and merlins table.

'We have our better days.'

'I don't suppose you'd begrudge me my share, then.' the woman tosses him some coins and he flciks a hand over them 'And the rest?'

'That's all we got.' she says and in the next second hes gripping the front of her shirt pointing a small dagger at her chest

'I'll not ask again'

'Take your hands off her.' Arthur says calmly and the man turns to look at him before he grins and whirls his mace at Arthur who ducks and pushes him into a shelf.

'I'm gonna make you pay for that.' he says

'I'd like to see you try.' merlin chuckles drawing the attention onto him. Dagr whistles and a large group of tough looking men enter the tavern. Merlin gets out of his seat and comes to stand by a pillar.

'You had to open your big mouth, didn't you Merlin?' Arthur sighed

'You two have got yourselves in a bit of a pickle, haven't you?' a dark haired man with a scruffy looking beard walked up, yet he pulled off the rugged look very well.

'You should get out of here while you have the chance.' Arthur warned the newcomer.

'You're probably right.' he says taking a swig from his drink before he hands it to Dagr. who looks down at in confusion. In the next second the rugged man punches him in the face sending him backwards.

Almost immediately the whole tavern is in the middle of a brawl, 'Arthur!' merlin yells when he sees Arthur pinned against a table. he elbows one of Dagr's men out of the way.

'Merlin! Behind you!' Arthur warns and merlin ducks as a man throws a chair at him. Arthur punches the man holding him getting the upper hand.

Merlin moves through the tavern coming to a s top seeing two men coming towards him 'Ætslide bencþel.' his spell throws a bench at two large men marching toward him. Mary tries to rescue her merchandise and the rugged man that started the brawl was held back by one of the men but ducked down so another hit the guy holding him with a table giving him the advantage.

While this was happening Merlin slides underneath the bar. One of the men come after him and merlin crashes a jug over his head, mary doing the exact same, knocking the man out. Merlin magically throws plates at another attacker and the rugged guy approaches the counter as he knocks out the man he has in a headlock, 'Pass the jug, heh?'

Merlin hands him the jug and he takes a swig before punching an attacker behind him, 'What do they call you, then?' he asked

'Merlin.'

'Gwaine. Pleasure to meet you.' and the two men shakes hands before gwaine spins and smashes the on another attacker's head 'Such a waste, heh?' he says before going off and merlin watches him astonished at his extremely casual behaviour.

Arthur fights Dagr but is thrown to the ground. Dagr pulls a knife but Gwaine lunges at him, saving Arthur and knocking dagr out but he ends up taking a knife to the thigh. Gwaine tries to get up, but falls over and knocks himself out on a bench. Arthur and Merlin hurry over to him.

'How is he?' Arthur questions merlin, who was examining gwaine before Merlin bandages Gwaine's leg.

'Not good. He's losing a lot of blood.' Merlin says and Arthur sighs.

A few minutes later Dagr is in the stocks getting pummelled with rotten fruit and vegetables, an experience merlin had had way too many times. Gwaine was strung over Arthur's horse still unconscious but stable for the time being.

'If this man ever troubles you again, word is to be sent to Camelot. Soldiers will be here within a day.' Arthur tells the people in front of him.

'How can you make a promise like that?' Mary questions

'Because I'm the King's son, Prince Arthur.' he says as they ride past.

'Prince Arthur? Prince Arthur in my tavern?' she says in astonishment before looking back at the stocks 'Come on!' she shouts and peasants throw rotten food at Dagr.

Arthur and Merlin place Gwaine down on merlin's bed so Gauis could attend to him, 'Merlin, fetch me some fresh water, towels, a needle, and silk thread.' gaius says

'And honey?'

'You're learning.' gaius smiles and merlin dashes off. Arthur looks to gaius for an explanation about the honey 'Helps fight the infection.'

'Will he be alright?' Arthur questions

'Providing he's strong.'

'He's that, alright. The man saved my life, Gaius. He's to be given anything he needs.' Arthur states before leaving the room.

The next day Gwaine wakes up looking around confused when Merlin enters with a breakfast tray 'What am I doing in this bed?' he questions merlin

'You were wounded. Arthur wanted to make sure you were treated by his physician.' Merlin explains

'Arthur?'

'Prince Arthur. You saved his life.' gwaine smiles before readjusting the pillow behind him so he could sit up

'If I'd known who he was, I probably wouldn't have. He's a noble.'

'Yeah, but he's a good man.' merlin defends putting down the tray and gwaine snorts a laugh

'If you say so.'

'You're a hero. The King wants to thank you' merlins miles and gawine grabs his cup to drink 'in person.' Gwaine almost chokes on the drink at that

'Please, no. I've met a few kings. Once you've met one, you've...you've met them all.'

'He'll probably give you a reward.'

'I'm not interested. Besides, I've got everything I need right here.' Gwaine says patting his bag.

'Why did you help us?' merlin questions him

'Your chances looked between slim and none. I, er...I guess I just kind of like the look of those odds.' gwaine grinned and merlin smiled a bit confused, he had definitely never met a man like gwaine before.

'Merlin? Are you here?' Karas voice drifted through the chambers. Merlin didn't notice who gwaine stiffened at the sound as he walked back into the main chamber to greet her.

'Ah there you are, Gaius told me what happened at the tavern, are you alright?' she asked.

'Yeah I'm fine better then Gwaine anyway' he said and was surprised when he saw Kara completely freeze at the name.

'Gwaine?' she questioned and merlin nodded

'yeah he helped us in the tavern, save Arthur's life too' he explained and kara's eyebrows furrowed

'doesn't sound like gwaine' she muttered but loud enough for merlin to hear

'you know him?'

'Where is he?' she demanded and merlin looked at her confused seeing a spark in her eyes that he had never seen before.

'in my room' he said and before he could utter another word Kara was racing up the steps , opening the door.

'Kara-' gwaine gasped in surprise but before he could say anything else Kara flung herself at him, crushing him in a tight hug.

Merlin entered looking rather confused at the two 'what's going on?' he asked but was ignored.

'How is it that every time I see you, your hurt or in trouble?' Kara asked pulling away and gwaine grinned.

'Special talent' he said and Kara rolled her eyes before hugging him again, wary of his injury though.

'wait what are you doing in Camelot its not safe here' gwaine said pulling away looking at her and she sighed.

'Its not safe anywhere gwaine' she said and he shrugged, knowing she was probably right.

'Ahem' merlin cleared his throat and the two glanced over at him 'mind explaining how you two know each other?'

'Oh right, sorry merlin' kara said 'um Gwaine's actually my little brother' she said and gwaine rolled his eyes while merlin gaped at the two in surprise.

'you'll never let that go do you?' Gwaine said annoyed

'well its true!'

'Your only older then me by 10 months, that's not even a whole year'

'it still counts' Kara protested and the two got into an argument quite quickly and yep, merlin could definitely see the resemblance now.

'Anyway I heard you save Arthur's life?' Kara said quickly changing the conversation.

'wouldn't have if I knew who he was' Gwaine argued and Kara rolled her eyes

'Yes you would have'

'I disagree' Gwaine says sneaking in another blueberry from the tray.

'Well I have to get to Arthur, I'll let you two catch up' merlin said but it was almost like he never said anything cause the two were arguing again, completely ignoring his presence. Merlin smiled when he closed the door, he hadn't seen Kara smile like that in ... well ever. She looked so happy to be back with her brother that Merlin wondered why they were ever apart?

Merlin pulled back the curtains of Arthurs room 'How's Gwaine?' Arthur asked stretching.

'Recovering.' Merlin said, deciding that he probably shouldn't divulge the information on the fact Gwaine didn't like nobles and that he was kara's brother. He glanced out the window seeing a knight riding into the square 'who's that?' he questioned

Arthur goes to the window to see what he was looking at and smile 'Ahh, Sir Darien. He's here for the mêlée.'

'Oh, yeah. The tournament where the knights ride around hitting each other with blunt weapons for no good reason.'

'A little more to it than that.' Arthur says grabbing his belt from around his enck walking away from the window

'Really? All I've ever seen is people getting the seven bells knocked out of them so that the last man can be called the winner'

'The mêlée is the ultimate test of strength and courage.' Arthur said fastening his belt

'Are you sure we're talking about the same thing?' merlin smiled

'Well, I wouldn't expect you to understand. You're not a knight.'

'Oh, well if it means I don't get clobbered 'round the head, I'm glad of it.' merlin said walking away

'I'm afraid it doesn't.' Arthur calls out and throws a cup at the back of merlin's head.

'Ow!' merlin cried out in pain rubbing the back of his neck as he looked at Arthur, whom nods his head towards the armour sitting on the table.

'I need that lot cleaned by noon.' merlin glared at him rubbing his neck as he stalked away.

Kara was walking through the two with Gwen when her brother showed u holding a flower 'I believe this belongs to you.' Gwaine says holding out the flower to gwen and kara rolls her eyes.

'I don't think so. It's not my colour.'

'Ah, well...let us see.' he says and puts the flower in Gwen's hair.

'I bet you've got a whole bunch of those to hand out.' gwen says and kara laughs, amking Gwaine narrow his eyes at his sister before smiling at gwen

'No. Yours is the only one.' Gwaine holds up empty hands as proof. Gwen scoffs and tries to move past him 'I'm Gwaine.' He holds out his hand and Gwen shakes it and keeps walking. Gwaine doesn't let go and pulls her back.

'You haven't told me your name. You look like a princess to me. So it's probably something like Sophia or...or Esmeralda. That's it. Princess Esmeralda.' he said bowing and kara laughed, it was hilarious watching her brother trying to charm gwen when she knew the girl only had eyes for Lancelot.

'Stop it. People are staring.' gwen says to gwaine

'Not until you tell me your name.'

'its Gwen.'

'There. That wasn't so hard now, was it?' Gwen tries to move past him 'Let me carry that. A princess shouldn't have to lump her washing around.'

'Unfortunately I'm not a princess.'

'Ah, but you see...you are to me.' Gwen and Kara chuckle

'come one Gwaine you can do better then that' kara says and gwen looks at her before looking back at Gwaine seeing resemblances.

'are you two?'

'mortal enemies, yes' Gwaine says making kara roll her eyes

'hes my baby brother' she says ruffling her fingers through his hair making him glare at her.

'This isn't working, is it?' he says turning to gwen ignoring his sister

'No, not really. But I like that you tried, and that you know when to give up.' gwen says back taking the flower out of her hair and passing it to Gwaine

'You'd better have this, in case someone else takes your fancy. I'll see you later Kara' she says as she continues down the street

'I've only eyes for you.' Gwaine called out

'I'm sure.' gwen chuckles waving before disappearing.

'Aw poor Gwaine, He's lost all his charms' Kara says in a baby voice making him glare at her

'It would of worked if you weren't here' he protested but kara laughed slinging her arm through his.

'come on i'll show you around' she says and laughs when Gwaine puts the flower in her hair, 'really?'

'hey its a beautiful flower it should go to beautiful girl' he says innocently and kara smiles.

'Aw that's sweet but I'm still telling everyone I'm older then you' she says and Gwaine sighs defeated that his plan didn't work but allows himself to be dragged away by his sister as she shows him around the streets of Camelot.

Kara had been given the unfortunate task of delivering extra blankets to all the knights who would be performing at the melee. Some of them were nice enough, gentleman in a way while others were complete pigs that she wouldn't mind running through with a sword. She would much rather be spending time with her brother, she knew Gwaine and knew that he didn't stay in one place for long.

So she was glad when she came to the final door. Just when she was about to knock however the door swung open and an exhausted looking merlin tumbled out of the room. 'You alright there merlin?' she questioned and he looked up at her.

'Trust me you do not want to go in there' he said steering her away from the door.

'but-' 'just trust me on this one kara' he said dragging her away and kara shrugged, not al that bothered.

Kara sat with Merlin and Gaius eating some soup for dinner, Gwaine and disappeared to god knocks where but his bag was still up in merlin's rooms so kara knew he hadn't just skipped out on them. Her attention however wasn't on her brother but the blue eyed manservant next to her that was eagerly slurping his pea soup like he hadn't eaten for days.

'It's very hard to work out whether you are eating or inhaling that soup.' gaius finally spoke up

'I haven't had anything all day. Sir Oswald had me at his beck and call.' merlin stated as he continued to eat.

'How is he?' gaius asked

'Awful. He treats me like dirt.'

'That doesn't sound like the young man I knew. He always struck me as a kind and thoughtful soul.'gaius said and merlin scoffed

'He must have changed.'

'You must remember that not all masters are as good to their servants as Arthur.' Merlin spits his soup in Gaius's face and kara laughs at the disgusted look on Gaius's face

'Thank you, Merlin.'

'Sorry.' merlin smiles and the door opens and gwen comes in

Kara, Merlin, I think you need to come with me' she says and the two look at each other before rising and walking with her.

'You drank all this?' merlin said shocked as he looked over the bill. Kara sighed of course it was Gwaine and of course it involved a tavern.

'With some help from my new friends!' gwaines said and tavern folk cheered.

'He says that he hasn't got any money. So it looks like you'll have to pay.' the innkeeper says griping merlins shirt lifting him up

'But...I can't afford this.' merlin protests

'You better find someone who can.' the innkeeper threatens and Gwaine laughs before falling over. Kara shook her head before going over and helping her still chuckling brother up while merlin dealt with the innkeeper.

Merlin and Kara help a staggering Gwaine up and into merlins room 'You're the best friend I've ever had.' Gwaine cried

'You seem to have quite a few.' Merlin says and the two men laugh while Kara rolls her eyes but cant help the smile on her face.

'I'd love to see Arthur's face when he gets that bill.' Gwaine says

'Right. What is it with you and nobles?' merlin asks sitting down on the bed and kara looked away, knowing Gwaine was going to tell the story.

'Oh, nothing. My father was a knight in Caerleon's army. He died in battle, leaving my mother penniless. And when she went to the King for help, he turned her away.'

'You didn't know him?' merlin asks Gwaine who shakes his head

'Just some stories I've been told.' Kara looked down at that. Even though she was barely a few weeks old she still got to meet their father while Gwaine never got the chance. She always felt guilty about that, though she knew Gwaine would never use that against her.

'Yeah, I know how that feels. I met my father just briefly before he died.' merlin says sadly and kara puts her hand on his shoulder squeezing it in comfort remembering what had happened to balinor.

'Why?' Gwaine questioned, sitting up

'He was banished.'

'What had he done?'

'Nothing. He served the King.'

'But the king turned against him.' Gwaine guess and merlin nodded 'that doesn't surprise me' Gwaine sighed

'Arthur's not like that.' Kara inputs

'Ha! Maybe. But none of them are worth dying for, heh?' Gwaine says grabbing merlins shoulder before he laughs leaning back and hits his head on wall though it doesn't faze him as he laughs some more, kara and merlin chuckling with him.

'Come on time for bed' kara said and Gwaine laughed

'yes mother' she rolled her eyes before she helped him remove his jacket, shirt and boots. Gwaine curled underneath the blankets and looked up at her, 'I'm glad your here, I've missed you' he says gripping her hand and she squeezes it.

'I've missed you too' she says before kissing his forehead 'night' she calls and he yawns tiredly before he was dead to the world.

'you and Gwaine are quite close' merlin observed and Kara shrugged.

'He was all I had growing up. Our mother worked endlessly trying to provide for us and well the other kids thought I was strange because of my magic. Gwaine was the only one who could make me laugh and smile for a long time' she said smiling 'he was my best friend'

'What happened?' merlin asked and Kara sighed.

'Nothing really, we travelled together for a while, doing the odd job here and there, sending money back to our mother every so often to help her get by. Not like she needed it with us gone, she was able to provide enough for herself but I don't know, just one day we went our separate ways. I haven't seen him in years' she explained and merlin nodded.

'It must be good to have him back then'

'For now' she said before adding 'I know Gwaine he could never stay in one place for long. I just hope he stays for a while this time' she says and merlin nods understanding. the wo sorcerers said good night and Kara left for her own chambers.

'Sorry. I know, I'm late.' merlin said entering arthurs chambers with a breakfast tray in his arms.

'Not at all.' Arthur said oddly calm a this desk but merlin shrugged it off

'good'

'Sure you're alright? You're not sick, unsteady, about to burst into song?' Arthur questioned while merlin fixed up the bed

'No, why?'

Arthur picks up a piece of paper and merlin grimaces recognising it 'Fourteen quarts of mead, three flagons of wine, five quarts of cider...'

'I can explain.' Merlin smiles walking forward

'Four dozen pickled eggs.' Arthur finishes

'That was Gwaine. He went to the tavern and, er..he couldn't pay for it.'

'So you said I would.'

'Mm. You know, if I hadn't, that inn keeper...he, he would've strung us both up.'

'I fail to see the downside.' Arthur said

'You said he should be given anything he needs.' Merlin shurgs

'Four dozen pickled eggs?!' Arthur yells

'I'm sorry...I'll pay for it.'

'You most certainly will.' Arthur says flinging away the paper and Merlin did not like that look in his eyes at all.

'Arthur is a thoroughbred little braggart.' Gwaine states as he looks down at the shoe on his arm

'Why?' Merlin asks as he contuse to brush down the boot in his hand

'For making us do this.'

'I think it's fair.' Merlin shrugged

'For the entire army?' Gwaine says pointing down the long line of boots.

'If you admitted your father was a knight, you wouldn't have to.' merlin said

'Maybe. But I'm not making the same mistakes that he did. Anyway, my father always treated his servants well.'

'You didn't know him.' Merlin points out

'Well, I like to think that he did.' Gwaine said almost defensively and merlin nodded going back to brushing the boot 'What about yours?'

'No, he didn't have any servants. He didn't have...well...anyone.'

'When did he die?' Gwaine asks

'About a year ago. I just wish that I had the chance to know him better. So much he could've taught me.'

'But you did get to meet him.' Gwaine points out

'Yeah.'

'If there's one thing that I learned from my father's life, is that titles don't mean anything. It's what's inside...' Gwaine slaps Merlin's knee with the cleaning brush. '...that counts.'

'Ow.' Merlin rubs his knee.

'You two look like your having fun' a familiar voice said from behind him and Gwaine smiled.

'watch this' he whispered to merlin before turning to look at kara 'please dear sister you must help us' he begged getting down on his hands and knees, giving her the same big eyed expression he did when they were kids.

Kara sighed 'fine, toss me a brush' she said and Gwaine grinned, throwing her one. The three were soon lost in a childhood story exchange, both siblings trying to make the other look more like a fool. Merlin smiled as he watched them banter. They were still close even after spending years apart. Merlin laughed at another story between Gwaine and the innkeeper's daughter and her father.

Kara joined Merlin on the training grounds as she had already finished all her chores for Morgana and Gwaine had gone to take a nap. She watched as Arthur continued to strike against a wooden dummy.

'You look like you need a bit of practice.' A knight in dark hair said and Kara turned to look at him to see he was talking to Arthur.

'Ah, you think so?' Arthur said turning around to face the knight.

'I know so.' He says with a smile. Merlin hands the knight a sword and Kara sat up as she watched the two men fight, the sound of swords clanging ripping through the training grounds.

'You're rusty. You're not as quick as you used to be.' Arthur teased as they came to a block

'Still quick enough to hit you.' The knight spoke and got out of the block attacking Arthur again.

'I thought you were left handed?' Arthur stated in confusion looking at the Knights hands.

'Yes, I am, I...' He switched the sword to his left hand 'just wanted to give you a chance' he attacked Arthur again. Kara narrowed her eyes as she watched, for someone who claimed to be left handed he fighting rather poorly compared to how he did with his right.

'Why don't we make this more interesting? 50 gold coins first clean hit.' The knight said when their swords clashed together again.

'Make it a hundred.' Arthur shrugs but the knight begins to attack more fiercely but Arthur was able to pin his arm. Tapping his armour he spoke 'keep your money' with that Arthur left, Knights clap him on the back for his victory.

Another knight joined the defeated man and Kara watched them cautiously. There was something off about these knights, she didn't know what but there was but she decided she would keep an eye on them.

This however wasn't what she had in mind at all. Kara had been cornered in the hallway by the knight that Arthur had defeated.

'Well aren't you a beauty. How have I not seen you around before. What's your name girl?' he asked and Kara simply tried to walk past, not trusting the man at all. He grabbed her upper arm and brought her back so she was up against a wall

'I believe I asked you a question' he said, his eyes cold and fierce. Kara glared at him, showing no fear.

'Move please' she asked through gritted teeth.

The man smirked 'I will when I'm done and sweetheart I haven't even started' he said leering closer and Kara felt her eyes water at the stench on his breath, absolutely revolting. Like seriously had this guy never heard of personnel hygiene?

'Is there a problem?' She had never been so happy to hear Arthur's voice then right now. The knight immediately let go and leaned back at the sound of the princes voice.

'No problem at all, I was just asking this seeing girl if she would fetch me a new pillow, the one I have is a bit too stiff for my liking, sore neck and all' he lied easily and Kara glared at him.

'Right, I'm sure she'll get right on to it but first I have something to ask her' Arthur stated and the knight nodded, looking Kara up and down once more before disappearing down the corridor.

'Are you alright?' Arthur immediately asked when Oswald was out of earshot.

'I'm fine ' she said rubbing her wrist where the knight had dug into.

'Are you sure?' he asked and kara smiled at his concern.

'I promise I'm fine Arthur, thank you' she said and Arthur nodded.

In gaius's quarters, Kara watched as he bandaged merlin's hand, listening to what he had to say.

'To the eye the sword appeared blunt, but when I touched it...' He mimicked a grimace thinking back to the sharp pain he felt.

'You were lucky. I've seen those blades in action. They're forged using sorcery.' Gwaine informed.

'What would they want with such a blade?' Kara questioned.

'I think they mean to kill Arthur in the mêlée.' Merlin stated and Kara nodded after all it made perfect sense, he did seem rather eager to fight Arthur during training today.

'But in front of all those people?' Gaius's asked.

'It's the perfect cover. If they succeed, nobody will suspect it was intentional.' Gwaine pointed out.

'I need to warn Arthur.'

'Merlin, Sir Oswald's a knight. He comes from a well respected family. You can't accuse him without proof.'

'Then we need that blade.' Merlin sated standing up.

'I'll get it.' Gwaine said

'What if they catch you? What reason would you have to be in Sir Oswald's chamber? No. It's safer if I do it.' Merlin stated.

'Why can't I do it?' Kara questioned, wondering why she was being left out of this conversation.

'It's too dangerous for you'

'Excuse me?' She said offended at Merlin's words.

'Oswald's already taken a certain liking to you, if he sees you in his room who knows what he'll do'

'How do you-' Kara questioned how he knew, she hadn't said anything.

'Arthur told me as well as asked me to keep an eye on you and keep you safe' Merlin said with a small smirk and despite the glare she sent him, she couldn't help the heat that rose to her cheeks.

Merlin left after that and Gwaine turned to his sister 'what happened in the corridor'

'Nothing really, just a small incident' she shrugged but that wasn't enough for Gwaine as he badgered her about what happened, playing the protective older brother card despite the fact she was the older sibling.

Night fell and Gwaine, Kara and gaius's at around the table awaiting merlin's return.

'He should be back by now.' Kara stated anxious.

'I know' gaius's said continuing to read.

'I'm going to go see what's going on.' Gwaine said leaving the room. Kara sighed and with a glance at gaius's she hurried out after her brother. The two hurried down the hall entering the room, seeing Merlin duck underneath a swing from sir Oswald.

'Is there a problem here?' Gwaine said attracting the attention of the men in the room.

'No. Now leave.' Oswald threatened.

'You alright, Merlin?' Gwaine asked Merlin who mouthed "no" shaking his head,

'I thought I told you to leave?' Oswald said

Gwaine glared at him 'I wasn't talking to you.'

'How dare you speak to a knight like that!' Ethan yelled pulling out his sword, Gwaine placed Kara behind him next to Merlin as he pulled out his own. The two men engaged in a fight quickly, Gwaine easily knocking Ethan to ground.

'Gwaine!' Kara yelled in warning as Oswald went to attack him but Gwaine easily fought him off.

'Don't worry. I can handle this thug.' Gwaine said confidently before attacking. Kara couldn't help but admit her brother had certainly improved in skill since she last saw him.

Ethan attacked with a cry but Gwaine turned disarming him and punching him in nose knocking him to the ground.

'Watch out!' Merlin yelled and Gwaine quickly turned and stopped Oswald's attack, disarming him quickly and pointed his sword at the terrified man.

At that moment however Leon and a few other Knights entered 'what's going on?' With Gwaine distracted, Oswald punched him in the face and he sprawled to the ground.

'Gwaine!' Kara shouted and rushed to her brother but he reassured her he was fine quickly.

'This man attacked me! I demand an audience with the King!' Oswald yelled and Kara was forced back by Leon as the two extra Knights grabbed Gwaine hauling him out of the room.

Kara, Merlin and Gaius hurried down the hall Merlin explaining what had happened 'It's not Sir Oswald. It's that thug from the tavern, Dagr. He's using a magical crystal to change his appearance.'

They entered the room and Kara glared at the Knights as they shoved Gwaine to the ground.

'Sire, this man attacked me, with a sword, tried to kill me' dagr stated.

'Is this true?' Uther asked.

'I stepped in to protect Merlin.' Gwaine stated truthfully.

'I tried to talk to him. He was like a man possessed. I'm sure that Sir Ethan will back me up.' Dagr said turning to the man behind him.

'Indeed, I can vouch for his every word.'

'He's a liar!' Gwaine shouted and stood only to be held back by the guards, the shackles clanging together.

'I will have your tongue! How dare you speak to a knight in that way?!' Utter shouted at Gwaine.

'Nobility is defined by what you do, and not by who you are. And these men are anything but. They are arrogant thugs!'

'Gwaine.' Arthur spoke as the dark haired man tried to escape the guards grip.

'Well, you see, Sire, how he behaves.' Dagr stated and Kara felt anger coursing through her veins.

'I've heard enough. For a commoner to attack a nobleman is in violation of the Knight's Code.' Uther stated,

'I couldn't agree with you more, Sire. He must be made an example of.'

'Sir Oswald, please.' Arthur said but the thug continued.

'Nothing less than his execution will give me satisfaction.' Kara opened her mouth to shout at the man only to have Merlin's hand clamp over her mouth before a syllable could escape her lips. He shook his head at her and she nodded reluctantly pulling the man's hand away, her input would only make the situation worse.

'Father, I understand how this must look, it's an embarrassing situation. Sir Oswald is a dear friend, and our guest here in Camelot. But Gwaine is my guest here, too. And he may not be of noble birth, but I can vouch that he has a noble heart.' Arthur said and Kara smiled at him gratefully.

'How can you say that when you see the way he behaves?' Utter said and she threw a sharp glare in the Kings direction.

'Gwaine risked his life to save mine. I beg you, please, if a knight's word is his bond, then I give you my word Gwaine is a good man. He deserves clemency.' Arthur said and Kara could practically feel the confusion radiate off Gwaine at Arthur's words. He really was becoming an alternative to the way Gwaine saw nobles.

Uther stared at Gwaine for a moment before he spoke with a cold tone 'You are banished from Camelot. If you ever return, you will pay for it with your life. You have until dawn to leave the city.' He said before leaving the throne room.

Kara looked down at the Kings orders, not liking them one bit. Yes she had lived without her brother for years but he was finally back into her life only to sent away again. It tore her up inside as she watched the guards drag Gwaine out of the throne room.

She followed after Arthur, quickly catching up to him 'Arthur is there anything you can do?' she asked but Arthur shooks his head.

'My fathers word is final'

'but-' 'may I ask why your so keen on having Gwaine stay?' he interrupted and Kara let out a small smile when she saw jealousy flickering in Arthur's eyes.

'It's nothing like that Arthur its just...Gwaine's my brother'

'really?' Arthur asked surprised and she nodded.

'I haven't seen him in years and when I finally get to he's being sent away. Arthur please I don't want to be separated from my brother anymore' she begged and Arthur sighed. He didn't like seeing her this upset at all and when he saw the tears slowly welling up in her eyes he pulled her close.

'I'm sorry Kara, if there was anything I could do to change my father's mind you know I would do it for you in a heartbeat' he said, holding her close and she sighed. She knew he was right but that didn't change the fact she wished something could be done.

'I know and I thank you for that' she said, hugging him before pulling away 'I have to go say goodbye' she said and Arthur nodded understandingly and let her go.

She caught Gwaine leaving through the door, bag on his shoulder. 'Your really leaving?' She questioned softly and he smiled sadly.

'I can't very well stay now can I?' he questioned and she nodded sadly.

She moved forward and gave her little brother a hug, even though he was taller then her. 'Take care of yourself gwaine'

'I always do' he grins and she rolls her eyes before hugging him close.

'I'll see you around' he says grinning trying to lighten the mood and she nodded. Gwaine kissed her head before eh left with one last smile sent her way. Kara entered the physician chambers and accepted the hug merlin gave her warmly before she sat down next to him at the table in front of gaius.

'I don't know what we do.' merlin sighed and Kara quickly remembered how the knights weren't how they said they were and that Arthur was in danger.

'I could try and persuade Arthur to withdraw from the contest.' gaius suggested but kara shook her head

'it's Arthur, he'll never withdraw from a fight'

merlin nodded in agreement 'I'll just have to somehow...use my powers to defend him.' merlin sighed and kara and Gaius looked at him in surprise.

'with the king and half of Camelot watching?' Gaius questioned

'I don't have a choice.'

Kara couldn't sleep that night most likely because of her brother returning only to be sent away again and it was because she was worried for Arthur's safety in the melee. Eating breakfast quickly, she fastened her green cloak around her before she made her way down the corridor in hopes to talk to Arthur before the tournament began.

She knocked hearing an enter from inside. Looking in she saw Arthur dressed in full body armour a sword by his side as he struggled to fasten one of his wrist pads. She couldn't help the small smile that graced her face as she watch him fumble trying to get the small clip in place

'Here, allow me' she spoke and walked over grabbing the lad from his hands. She fastened it around his wrist and easily attached the clip so it would put go sliding off. She could feel Arthur's blue irises looking at her.

'Thank you' Arthur thanked her and she nodded taking a step back when she realised exactly how close they had gotten.

'Let me guess you've come to ask me to withdraw from the match?' Arthur guessed but surprisingly Kara shook her head.

'No I just came to wish you good luck' Arthur turned and stared at the girl in front of him in slight surprise.

'Oh well, thank you then' he said and she nodded.

'Not like you need it of course' she added and he nodded, snapping out his reverie.

'Yes of course' he said and checked his armour once again.

'You know, you showed the makings of a great king last night' Kara said.

'Really? How?' Arthur questioned, confused.

'You didn't just take the knights word as the truth. You paid attention and even tried to save a man you barely know.' she explained and Arthur nodded still slightly surprised. Yes, she had mentioned she thought he would be a great king before but it still always came as a surprise.

'thank you' he said and she nodded before surprising him again by hugging him

'Just be careful please' she begged and she felt him nod.

'I will' he said and she nod happily before pulling away and with a final smile she left him to get ready.

Kara found Merlin and gaius at the melee quickly and she stood by them as the Knights formed two rows on either side, on horseback and facing each other. She finds Arthur immediately at keeps an eye on him as uther begin the melee. The horses charge at each other and soon many are knocked off their horses.

Kara winced seeing one of the knights being dragged away by its horse, leg still caught in the stirrup. The competition quickly heated up with Dagr and Ebor cutting down every knight in their path.

'He's heading straight for Arthur.' Merlin speaks and Kara looks to see Ebor leading his horse towards the distracted prince. At the last second Arthur ducked and the thug missed and was knocked off his horse instead. Kara sighed in relief.

However her relief didn't last long when she saw Ebor getting up and heading for Arthur 'Arthur's in trouble.' merlin narrated just as he jumped and pulled Arthur of his horse. The crowd gasp as he goes to the stab the prince who rolls away at the last second.

As Arthur and Ebor fight, Dagr comes charging towards them on his horse, 'You'll have to do something. Otherwise, Arthur will die.' gaius quickly whispered and merlin's eyes flashed snapping the girth on dagr's saddle, resulting in the thug tumbling off his horse. Merlin and Kara exchanged quick smiles before it faded when they saw Dagr rise and enter the fray between Arthur and Ebor.

'It's two against one. This isn't fair' Kara pointed out as they all began to fight. Another knight rose from the ground then and quickly joined the fight but he was helping Arthur by evening the odds.

'Who is that helping Arthur?' merlin questioned

'I don't know, but I think we should be thankful he is.' gaius points out and kara nods in agreement.

She watches as the new knight spins Ebor's blade with his own into the air and he catches it easily. Kara smiled widely, recognising the move instantly.

'There's only one person I know who can do that.' merlin said

'Gwaine' Kara nodded just then Gwaine stabs Ebor, killing him instantly and the crowd gasps as he falls. Dagr manages to knock Arthur down and goes for the Gwaine comes to the rescue and blocks Dagr before he stabs him with the Stalorne blade, once again the crowd gasps in shock. Both Arthur and Gwaine get up and face each other.

'They'll expect us to fight to the end now.' Arthur points out before he takes his helmet off, breathing in fresh air. the crowd cheer when they see their prince 'You fought bravely. The field is yours.'

Gwaine stares at Arthur for a moment before sticks his sword into the ground and lifts his visor. Arthur smiles and shakes head when he recognises Gwaine 'I should've known Nobody fights like you do.' he says while Gwaine removes the helmet.

Gwaine turned toward the King's box, surprising and quickly angering Uther 'Guards! Seize him!' he shouted and Kara rolled her eyes in annoyance when guards quickly surrounded her brother.

Inside a tent Kara watches as Gaius looks over the two thugs finding the crystals merlin talked about.

'Is there nothing you can do for them?' uther asked entering the ten

'I'm sorry, it's too late for them.'

'The prisoner is responsible for their deaths. I want him executed immediately.' Kara clenched her jaw at his orders, oh man did she want to teach this king a lesson.

'You might want to wait before you pass judgement. I fear that...Sir Ethan...and Sir Oswald are not all that they seem.' gaius says ripping the crystal necklaces away and both Kara and Gaius removes the helmets off the two men, revealing the dead Ebor and Dagr.

'Sorcery.' uther spits out while Arthur leans down recognising Dagr to be the man from the tavern. He smiles and looks up at his father

'And once again, I owe Gwaine my life.'

Kara leaned against a wall with merlin watching as her brother paced. Arthur and Uther were talking about Gwaine deciding on his fate. Kara continuously tapped her foot against the wall, her nerves bouncing around inside of her but stopped when Gwaine shot her a look. She smiled innocently at him when the door open and the three looked to see Arthur coming towards them

'The King is prepared to overlook the fact that you fought in the mêlée.' Arthur states and Kara grins widely at the news

'That's fantastic!' merlin shouts

'Thank you, Arthur.' Gwaine nods

'But...he's a stubborn man. He will not rescind his judgment. You must leave Camelot.' Kara's smile disappeared at the bad news

'You've got to speak to him, Arthur, make him change his mind' kara immediately began

'Kara' Gwaine stopped her protests and she sighed.

'I'm sorry Gwaine. My father's wrong. If it were up to me...' 'I know. You don't need to explain yourself.' Gwaine interrupts and Arthur nods

'You have until sunset.'

'Where will you go?' merlin questioned Gwaine as they left merlins chambers.

'I was thinking Mercia.' Gwaine grinned and Kara's eyes quickly narrowed

'It's dangerous.' she warned

'Yeah. And you get a lot more ale for your money.' he grinned but stopped when he saw the looks on their faces 'I'm joking.'

'Why don't you tell the King who you really are, he'll grant you a pardon, you can stay in Camelot?' merlin said but Gwaine shook his head

'I could never serve under a man like Uther.'

'Yet you helped Arthur.' kara pointed out with a small smile, remembering their argument from a few days ago.

'He stood up for me.'

'I knew he would.' merlin says

'That showed he is, indeed, a noble man.'

'Then why don't you stay?' merlin questions and Gwaine sighs 'You could be a knight. Like your father. You and Arthur, you fought well together.' merlin points out and Gwaine pats his shoulder

'Then maybe one day we will again.' he says, squeezing merlin's shoulder goodbye before leaving with a wink. Kara quickly followed after him.

The two came to the borders of Camelot and turned to each other 'we always seem to be saying goodbye' kara pointed out and Gwaine nodded.

'You could always come with me you know. It would be fun not having to travel alone' Gwaine pointed out with a hopeful smile.

Kara smiled before glancing back at the castle, normally she would of jumped at the chance to be with her brother again but now ... well things are different.

'I can't'

'cause of Arthur?' Gwaine teased and she looked at him in shock.

'what? no! where would you get that idea?' she said and Gwaine gave her a knowing smile and she sighed 'its not just Arthur, i've made friends here and well I feel more at home then I ever have. besides I couldn't leave merlin alone, that boy almost gets into more trouble then you do' she laughs and Gwaine chuckles.

The two siblings hug each other close 'I'll miss you' Kara whispers sadly.

'ill miss you too' Gwaine sighed as well.

'goodbye Gwaine' she says but Gwaine shakes his head.

'that not it' and she chuckles remembering that when they were kids, they refused to say goodbye to each other as it seemed more like a final statement that they wouldn't see each other again.

'ill see you later' Gwaine smiles

'that's my girl' he says, kissing her head before walking away.

'Gwaine!' Kara calls after his retreating form and he turns around 'stay out of trouble' she says and he laughs.

'ah you know me sister, that is a promise I can not make' he winks before waving one last time before disappearing into the woods. Kara smiles before making her way back to Camelot.