Emrys' Only Weakness 7th Mordred Returns - Chapter 24, a merlin fanfic

Mordred is BAMF. Morgana starts having some common sense. And unfortunately, Arthur makes some sense before he hits a new low.

I think this is my favorite chapter, probably because of Mordred. ;)

"So you really think you've done it?"

He glances to his friend propped in the doorway while he continues to pack. "I hope so. I don't know if it will work with her magic, but all the tests are promising." Don't forget the grimoires. May need refreshing. "Look, worse case scenario, I'll have to be using more of the spells the healers taught me. Regardless, I'm willing to risk it."

The man smiles fondly at the traveler. "Well, you know we're all rooting for you." He approaches pulling him into a brotherly hug. "Good luck, mate. If anyone can fix this it's you."

"That's the plan, anyway." He returns the gesture.

The man ruffles the other's hair and starts to leave, but pauses to face him one last time. "Save our girl, Mordred."

The warlock nods. "See ya, Will."

"Merlynn, honey? I was wondering if you wanted to come to the store with me." Elena is currently speaking to a slab of wood, but hey, do what you got to do. She was unable to get Hunith on the schedule, at least not yet. She's apparently deep in the Ambrosian woods and unreachable. So, it's all Elena's job to mother hen for now. First goal: rouse Merlynn out of the flat, even for only a short while.

"I don't want to go anywhere."

She's barely audible but Elena hears it. She feels for her friend. She honestly doesn't know if she should push or not. No one has been or ever will be in the same position Merlynn's in. There is no protocol. Just... getting out seems like a healthy option. Hopefully it will be good for her. Hopefully. "Do you mind if I come in?" She hopes maybe face to face her roommate will be less likely to say no.

"Come in."

The blonde should be accustomed to the sight, but it still takes a moment to remember the harsh reality of why her once lively, spirited friend, now lies burrowed under blankets with only her raven hair visible. Elena knows Merlynn has skipped classes, hasn't ran or worked out, been to work, or even showered in several days. The witch uses magic to clean herself and change, refusing to be undressed ever. So on top of everything else the woman's lost, the luxurious baths she loved so much, are no more. "Merlynn?"

"Hmm?"

Just say it, Elena. Worst she can say is no. She slouches down into the bed next to Merlynn. "Look, I know you don't want to leave, but I really think a couple hours out of the flat will be good for you." Make a deal. Give her incentive. "I promise you, as soon as we come back you can go right back to bed, and I won't bother you again for at least twenty-four hours?" Still nothing. "Please." She's not too proud to beg.

Merlynn considers Elena's request. Better to satisfy her now, so she can have peace later. "Fine."

"Fine?" Fine? Fine means, yes! "Oh, good! Great! I'll go fetch my handbag, and we'll be off." Elena excitedly gambols out the door. Merlynn's getting out! She's not only leaving her room, she's leaving the flat! This is a big step for her, especially such a public place. Elena has to ensure this whole outing is worry free. She really hopes whoever's on Arthur duty right now keeps him busy. Merlynn needs this little excursion, if for nothing else than a few hours away, but Elena hopes it's more. She hopes Merlynn sees it for what it really is, a chance to remind her there is still life out there, that Arthur may have her without a moment's notice, but she can still live in between. "Got it." She slips the bag over her shoulder. "Ready?"

"As I'll ever be." AKA, never again.

"Okay then, let's go."

"He's mad, I tell you, mad!"

"Slow down, Morgana. What happened?"

Both Nimueh and Morgause watch as the princess frantically paces the lair.

"He threatened me! That's what happened! You know we've been so concerned about his jealousy and possessiveness, pumping him full of lust and anger, we didn't consider his sanity. I wouldn't put it past him to kill someone if he thought they would get between him and his Goddess. If I hadn't given him the vial, I have no doubt he would have hit me and ransacked my place looking for it. Me! His sister! Who I'm pretty sure next to Merlynn, he loves most in the world. If he would hurt me, can you imagine what he'd do to a stranger?! He won't be stopped, for anything, not even by himself. And we just gave the hulk another dose." Morgana deflates and sinks into a chair, draping herself over the table. "We have to stop. Come up with another way. I'm telling you he's dangerous when it comes to Merlynn."

Stop? Stop?! No, they can't stop! They're so close! Nimueh has developed this plan over years and years of trials and testing, invested in it, lost her job for it. No way in hell is she stopping! Do something! "Now hold on, let's talk about this. How about I make us some tea and we can spend the afternoon brainstorming, eh? See if we can come up with another solution. Let's not throw in the towel because we hit a little snag."

"A snag?! Nimueh, he could kill someone! If she even so much as smiles at another man, he could strangle the guy. He's barmy, like seriously, certifiably barmy. If you don't care about that, then consider what it would do to my reign, huh? The queen, sister to a murderer. And I will not abandon him. Ever! I will sacrifice the throne first."

Fix this, Nimueh. You're losing her, and if she goes so will Morgause. "You're right. Snag is too light of a word. I just think we are three intelligent, powerful women. I think we can at least attempt to solve our problem without quitting."

"There's no harm in talking, Morgana. If we can't come up with a way to make sure everyone stays safe, we'll be done, okay?" The blonde rubs her sister's arm.

She has no idea what resolution they could possibly come up with, but sure, hey, let's give it a go. Let operation 'find a way for Arthur not to kill everyone within a meter of his girlfriend' commence. "Okay."

"Good." The ancient high priestess smiles.That was close, Nimueh. Too close. "I'll put the kettle on."

Elena can't help but notice the extreme transformation of her friend since the last time they came to the market all those weeks ago. Previously, the witch literally stopped traffic from all the gawkers at the gorgeous woman in more than revealing clothing. Her smile was brilliant, and she had a childlike innocence, fascinated with the world around her. What a difference several weeks make. That and a bloody royal wanker hell bent on using Merlynn like an on-call prostitute. Now she's wearing an extra large wooly jumper with baggy trackie bottoms and trainers. Before, she left her raven tresses cascade freely down her back. Now she has them twisted into a tight bun fed through the back opening of a flat cap, with the brim sitting so low you can barely see her eyes. She has her arms crossed and gaze to the ground. She might as well wear a sign that says, 'fuck off'.

Don't look, Merlynn. No eye contact. Keep at least two meters distance from any man. Stick to Elena like glue. Do all that, and you might make it through this.

"So, I was thinking we could try that lasagna we saw on the telly. Remember? We have a lot of the ingredients already, and I think I can remember the rest. Interested?"

"What? Oh, yeah, sure. Whatever you want." Merlynn spots a bloke at the end of the aisle. He's coming their way. Goddess, she has to get out of there! She turns around and there's another one. Oh goddess, she's trapped! They're on both sides. Think, Merlynn. Think. She peers over the top shelf and sees a corner of the store, men free. It seems to be an area specific to children's picks. Okay, she can do this. She's about to teleport when she feels a hand on her forearm and nearly jumps out of her skin.

"Woah, it's okay. It's just me. I saw you panicking. What's going on?"

"I have to teleport." Merlynn is glancing back and forth to both ends of the aisle. They're getting closer.

Elena notices the witch's alternating focus, and realizes the problem. Fuck, she wants to kill Arthur! "Okay, where do you want to go?" Merlynn gestures to the far corner. "All right. You go ahead and go, and I'll meet you there." She nods and disappears. Merlynn couldn't get out of there fast enough, the way she didn't even blink before she was gone.

The rest of the trip is more of the same. Every time Merlynn comes within five meters of a man she teleports away. The whole excursion is like a game of 'Where's Wally', except Merlynn is the elusive traveler. By the time Elena finds her, a bloke turns the corner, and she's gone again. The only time the woman isn't shaking in fear of the opposite sex is when a two year old throws a temper tantrum and decides to hold their breath. Merlynn's famous thoughtfulness for others breaks the monotony of her fears.

"We have to do something! He's going to suffocate!" She raises her hand towards the child, and her eyes begin to flare, but Elena stops her.

"He's not gonna suffocate. I've seen this before. A child gets upset, and I guess either to get attention, or I don't know, maybe it's a rebellious thing. Anyway, they hold their breath. Either they end up exhaling, unable to hold it in anymore or they pass out. In which case, once they're out their body naturally starts to breathe again on instinct. See, watch." Elena gestures to the child and his mother, who's obviously well aware of her child's ways, unconcerned and continuing to shop whilst her son turns blue. Elena watches Merlynn observe the scene completely absorbed in what's happening. At least it's something other than Arthur. As predicted, soon the child passes out and the mother scoops him up. It's only a few seconds before he's breathing again. "See. I told you everything would be fine." Merlynn barely says anything the rest of their trip, seemingly lost in her own little world. After they arrive home and put the groceries away, Merlynn hastily retreats back to her room. Elena sighs, unsure if she should have encouraged the day's jaunt or not. Supporting Merlynn has become a guessing game, an experiment of trial and error. She prays that in this case, she got it right. She plucks her phone from her handbag, moseys into their living room, and entrenches herself onto their cozy settee. Elena needs to be comfortable for this conversation. She takes a deep breath and touches the green phone icon on screen.

Ring... ring... ring...

"Elena? To what do I owe the pleasure?"

"Cut the bullshit, arsehole. I'm calling because I have a question."

Arthur's taken aback by the instant hostility. "I'm listening."

"Is Merlynn allowed to go to school?"

"What?"

"School, Arthur. Is Merlynn allowed to go to school? I just spent the afternoon at the market with her and she teleporting away from any man within three meters of her. Well, school puts her well within three meters of many men of all ages, shapes, and sizes. As you well know she is a beautiful woman. She could go in there filthy, looking like a homeless person, and she would still draw admirers. I just want to make sure you aren't going to be summoning her after every class for a quick fuck to satisfy your male ego. If that's the case she might as well just quit. So, I ask you again. Is Merlynn allowed to go to school and not have to worry about being raped or assaulted in any way? At least for the day?" The lull in conversation has Elena rolling her eyes. Seriously? He has to think about if he'll rape her friend between classes. Guess he made up his mind, because the bastard finally responds.

"Merlynn is safe from me when she is at school."

"Just not when she's out, huh? How about tonight, Arthur? Is she in the clear for this evening? Because I'd really like to tell her she can actually sleep tonight. Especially since she has uni tomorrow. Can we put 'not rape Merlynn' on the itinerary? Can you fit that in your schedule?"

"I have plans this evening."

She knows exactly what plans he has. If she remembers right, Percy and Elyan are practicing footie with him, then getting him pissed at the pub. "Good to know." Click. "Fucking prick," she murmurs to herself.

"Hey Merlynn, I have good news!"

"Let's get this man another pint!" Elyan announces, and Percy strides to the bar for another round, investing more in Arthur's to make it extra strong.

"I really don't think I should. For some reason it's hitting me hard tonight."

"No, I just think you're becoming a lightweight in your old age."

"I'm only twenty-four!"

"Ah, but soon to be twenty-five in... what is it? ...little over a fortnight I think."

"Still, I'm not ancient!"

Percy returns with pints for all. "Here we go." After laying the tray on the table, he slides in next to Elyan. "So, what have we been talking about?"

"Arthur can't hold his liquor."

"I can so!" he says with slurred speech.

"Really? This is your norm, mate. Sorry to say, but you might be losing your title. If you can't drink this, Morgana officially takes your slot."

"Never!... Elyan. Or Percy. Who the fuck knows?" Arthur takes another sip, head swimming. "Why are you both being nice to me? Elena called me today and started mouthing off, got her right strop on."

They can barely understand him fumble through his words, but they got the gist. Elena apparently called him and had a few choice words.

"Yeah. Probably not a good idea to talk to the ladies right now, mate. They're especially offended. Not that we find your actions acceptable."

"If you're so disgusted, then why are you here?"

"Hoping to be a good influence. If we all just abandon you then the only person to guide you is yourself, and you my friend are making some pants moves lately."

"I see. And you're here to save me, Percival, that it?"

The giant shrugs.

"Well, see here's the thing. I don't need saving, because I'm not doing anything wrong."

"You can't honestly believe that, Arthur. I've known you practically my entire life. The prince I knew would be appalled with what you've done and continue doing. You raped her, Arthur, and still are harassing her."

"I did what I had to do. She was rejecting me... my soul. You can't imagine how that feels. My other half was sending me away. This wasn't some guy getting his jollies from a bird he sees at a party or someone just grabbing a woman in the park. Yes, I forced a woman against her will BUT she isn't just any woman. She's an immortal deity created fifteen hundred years ago for ME!"

"Okay, I'm not saying you were right, but why are you still harassing her? You've got her. She's yours, literally forever yours. You said you would leave her alone until your birthday. So why the alley, why the reception?" Percival asks.

Arthur thinks carefully about his answer. "Because... I don't think I can. That's the truth. I know it's cold, but if you want complete honesty, there it is. My body wants hers. It needs it like it needs food. I'm trying to 'fast', I really am, but I'm struggling. Let me explain it this way. When we were together and officially bonded I swear the Gods were singing. Magic flowed through me, around me. I think we might have levitated at one point. I saw the ceremony between the Ambrosian couple. This was not like theirs. It went far beyond just two lovers committing for life. This was Emrys and the Once and Future King uniting again after centuries. I don't think the magic is choosing me over her. I think it's choosing us. I'm on the side of us and she's not. It's that simple. The magic is not for Merlynn. It's not for Arthur. It's for both together as one. I understand that. I'm sorry that she doesn't. I wish to god she would get off the suppresants! You have no idea how badly I wish that! There is not a doubt in my mind, if she did, she would feel it too. Then everything would be consensual. But just because she's not there, just because she doesn't feel it, doesn't mean the magic wants it any less or I want it any less. Yes, I forced myself on her at the reception. I understand I should be abstaining from it all, but I just... can't. The reception was about me holding back, tiding the magic, tiding myself, so I could hold out until our birthday, so I could make the magic hold out. I'm sorry, but that's the best I can do." Arthur, apparently sober now, takes another gulp.

Well, what the hell do they say to that? They hate to say it, but what he's saying does make sense. So, now the question is... What do they do about it?

"I can see you boys have a lot to mull over. I'm gonna go ahead and get outta here." He starts to leave, but remembers something he wanted to say. "To put your mind at ease, I wanted to let you know I will not be summoning her tonight. I gave Elena my word, and as I explained, that does mean something to me." And he walks out.

"Shit, Perce. He's gotta point."

"I know."

"So, what does that mean?"

Perce is staring at the pub's exit. "Merlynn's fucked."

Elena thought she was wallowing last night, but for the first time since Arthur stole her virtue, she wasn't. There might be a shimmer of hope. She wouldn't dare speak it outloud. She doesn't know if Magic can read her thoughts or hear her speak and understand what she's saying. She's finding there's so much she doesn't know, so much she took for granted. Well, she can't do anything about the thoughts, but she can control her speech. This is a plan that is solely Merlynn's. No one else can know, otherwise Magic might know. And Magic can't find out!

That is a project for later. Presently, something else is a priority and an immediate salvation. Elena informed her last night Arthur had given his word he would not summon her at school. Therefore, school has become her new safe haven, and a moment away is a moment too long. Merlynn's eyes glow and with a wave she is clean and dressed in a new outfit. Today, she's wearing a plaid flannel shirt and a regular pair of jeans, with trainers, ensuring nothing is form fitting. There might have been a teenage boy wearing something similar. That's about as modest as she can get. The witch scurries to the kitchen and plucks a muffin off the counter. There. Backpack and breakfast. She'll be a little early, but who cares. School is Arthur free.

Mordred's plane lands on schedule. Not wanting to carry his bag around with him, he utilizes one of the airport's lockers. He'll retrieve it once he confirms if he's staying or going. The warlock recalls her flat's whereabouts and can at minimum teleport close. "Hang on, dragonlady. I'm coming."

Arthur can't help it. The magic itself, wants to see her, and he can't prevent it. Yeah, that's it. The magic says so. He presumes the power to locate him must be under the influence of the suppresants, because he finds her easily yet Merlynn's completely oblivious Arthur's there. Fuck, behold his Goddess! Elena wasn't kidding. Even dressed like... that. She really is trying to follow his rules. Good girl. She still is breathtaking. Well, come on, Pendragon. You have footie practice. You can spy on your queen later.

Knock. Knock. Knock.

Mordred knows this is the one. He specifically remembers from last time. Okaay, apparently they aren't home, so that would mean they must be in class. She only does magical studies, so it shouldn't be too hard to find, mainly because there's only one building. A castle, but nonetheless. His phone is showing the mid hour so she's likely in lectures right now. Plenty of time to meet after.

Goddess, he's nervous. They haven't Skyped or even spoken since he found out. Since he was told the savior his people practically worship, dare harm his betrothed. They all need to come to an agreement, not for Mordred's sake, but for Merlynn's. He knows, even with this heinous act committed by the King against the man's own soulmate, the warlock will always take second place. He never thought otherwise. If Merlynn told him to leave, that she would be happy with only Arthur, then he would leave. Of course he'll be devastated, but nothing matters more than her happiness. Because he loves her. He loves her more than life itself, and that's what you do when you love someone. You let them go and let them choose. The King forgot that.

Mordred has reached the entrance to the University. He finds a directory posted on a far wall. Magical studies? Magical studies? Magical... A broad smile spreads across his face. "Got it." He takes a deep breath. Here he goes.

Merlynn is sitting in class genuinely paying attention. The course is regarding spells and the only one where she actually has the role of student instead of aid. It's almost over, but she's in no rush. Her next lecture isn't for a while, and she will no longer be teleporting home. No, she is going to find any excuse she can dredge up to stay on university grounds. Volunteer work could be a possible option. Merlynn will need to speak to her advisor about it.

"All right, everyone. That is all for today. Remember, there will be an exam on household spells and you will also need to demonstrate two successfully. Oh, and I expect to see them according to your gauntlet level. Silver better not walk in here and light a candle. Uh, Merlynn?"

The witch glances north with the call of her name. "Yes?"

"You are not required to present a demonstration unless you wish to."

She smiles appreciatively and nods her head to her professor. This particular teacher learned long ago that Merlynn hates displaying her power. She's not a circus monkey. The faculty and students are aware she's capable. The only reason she'd be asked to 'demonstrate' would be for entertainment purposes. She really appreciates that this teacher at least understands that.

"That's all I have. Everyone have a good rest of your day."

"So Merlynn? Are you gonna put a show on for us?"

"Quiet Robbie! You do realize she's Emrys, don't you? Show some respect!" She faces her divine classmate. "Sorry about that."

"It's all right. I want to be treated the same as anyone else."

"But you're not the same."

"Robbie!"

Merlynn knows how not the same she is, and what that means for her. Nothing good. "No..." She gathers the materials still splayed out on her desk. "...I'm not." With supplies and bag in hand, she bolts out the door, having to get out of there. She doesn't need any reminders of her obligations as Emrys. She can pack it outside the lecture hall.

Goddess, there she is! His love, his beloved, his dragonlady! He can't wait any longer. "Merlynn!"

The witch is stuffing her grimoire inside the backpack when she hears it. 'Merlynn!' She freezes at that voice, the beautiful melodic voice that soothes her in her dreams. No. It couldn't be. This is a hallucination. It can't be real. If it were real that would mean something good was happening for Merlynn, and that doesn't happen. 'Merlynn!' She turns her head the direction down the corridor. Oh my goddess, it is! It is! It is! "Mordred!" She drops everything where she stands and races to her warlock with the brightest smile she's worn in ages. "Mordred!"

That answers that question! He guesses she's happy to see him. Ha! "Oh love! Oomph..." Spark spark spark spark.

Noooo! The witch promptly backs away. She had forgotten.

No pain? No pain! "Yes! Ah ha! It works! It works! It really works!" He looks over at his beloved, who looks so heartbroken, he can't stand it. "No baby, you don't understand. I've been working on something. I wasn't sure it would work with your magic, but it does! It does! Yes, it does!" The pure elation radiating off the warlock is palpable.

"What are you talking about, Mordred?" He eyes her in a suggestive manner. She notices it and is surprised when it thrills her .

"Why don't you come here, and I'll show you." He lunges forward and pulls her into him. Spark spark spark spark

"Mordred!" She tries to pull away, but he holds her tight. "Let me go! I don't want to hurt you!"

"Merlynn? Merlynn? Merlynn, look at me."

She finally stops struggling and notices her beloved's wrapped completely around her, sparks flying everywhere, but he's not even flinching. "How?"

"It's two fold actually. You see, I couldn't stop your magic and this enchantment is your creation."

Merlynn frowns bitterly. She never thought it would be used against her.

"So, my only option was to make it ineffective. Well, at least to me. I think only I have enough power to use it." He smiles. "So, the first thing I had to do was make it pain free. As you can see, I'm fine." He gestures to himself. " The next part was a little trickier, well a lot trickier, but I wouldn't stop. I never stopped, love." He cups her cheek. "My body is currently on auto heal. That's the best way to explain it. I can't hold out forever, but we can certainly hug and uh... kiss. I mean only if you want. Surely we don't have to, especially with every... mmm." The warlock suddenly finds his beloved's lips are attached to his. Her tongue tenderly licking the crease asking for entrance. He says yes.

Rapidly the couple is deepening the kiss and Merlynn wraps her legs around the warlock, Mordred easily holding her. He doesn't need magic. Pure will is giving him strength. Both the Goddess and high priest continue snogging as if their lives depend on it. Merlynn because he gave her the choice. Merlynn because he truly loves her and doesn't possess her. Merlynn because she loves him. Mordred because he missed her. Mordred because she needed him and he said he'd always be there. Mordred because he loves her. So the couple stays completely engrossed in each other, and as far as they're concerned, no one else exists. Unfortunately, they're wrong.

Apparently an all powerful Goddess snogging the life out of the powerful high priest, with sparks flying all around them, is newsworthy stuff. Students all around them have their mobiles out taking photos. #Emrysgetsbusy, #fireatCamelot, #magiclove. #loveforGoddess. The couple is none the wiser as students' posts circle the globe. A mistake that will be their undoing.

Back in the locker rooms the boys have just finished with practice and are getting cleaned up.

"So, who's all got plans tonight?"

"Oh, we're taking the prince out." Lance answers his teammate.

"What? When were you going to inform me of this?"

"We thought we'd surprise you." Percival has to think quickly. The truth is they have no idea what they're doing. Leon was on Arthur duty and had to call in, some Guard business or other. So the rest of them are scrambling. They can't do what Leon was planning. It was something sentimental from their childhood, hoping to remind Arthur of who he is.

"Surprise me, eh? What kind of surprise?"

"If we told you, it wouldn't be a surprise now, would it?" Lance has some ideas, but he can't say them until he talks to Percy and Elyan. They all have to have their stories straight.

"Woho! Check it out!" Valiant shows the players around him some posting that popped up on his Instagram. "Hey Arthur! Your hot little guardian's gone viral!"

Arthur is interrupted when the team git evidently has something to say. "What are you yammering about, Valiant?"

"Your bodyguard, Highness. She's gone viral. That must be her fiance, eh? Jesus, it's like he just came back from service. He's really..."

The future king snatches the mobile from his grasp and scrutinizes the photo as if examination makes the vision untrue. Once acceptance settles in the fury emerges.

The smarmy player doesn't realize the building wrath. "Wow, he's..."

"Shut up, Valiant!" Lance nods to Percival to get the fool out of the vicinity. "Arthur, you need to calm down. You're in no state..."

"Calm down? Calm down?! Why in the fuck should I calm down?!"

"Come on, Arthur. You can deal with this when you're thinking straight. Don't do anything you'll regret."

Arthur growls to the knight. "Oh, I regret nothing. Emrys! Emrys! Emrys!"

The two lovers finally unattach and realize where they are.

"Way to go, Emrys!"

"Damn, Merlynn. Didn't know you had it in you."

"Magical love. How romantic."

People's comments continue as the witch scans the corridor. They're surrounded. It's then she notices the devices. All the mobiles texting and posting. Texting and posting. Goddess, texting and posting!

"Look, Emrys. You're everywhere."

Someone shoves one in her face and she sees it. They're already trending. Their picture has thousands of likes and their hashtags have hashtags. All color drains from her face, which immediately alarms Mordred.

"Merlynn, what's wrong?"

"He'll know." It's barely audible.

"What do you mean, Merlynn? You're scaring me. What's going on?"

"Mordred, I..." She feels it. He's calling her. Godess, he's calling her! The vortex pull is getting stronger. "Mordred!" She's gone.

Arthur is angry. No, he's livid, blood boiling with a rage he didn't even know he had. How dare she! How many times does he have to say, she is his?! How many ultimatums does he have to give?! She humiliated him! Now, the entire planet thinks she's Mordred's. Well he's gonna have to set them straight, isn't he? He recognizes the shimmering in the atmosphere. His Goddess has arrived.

‐--

Where'd she go?! He surveys all the students, senselessly scoping for his dragonlady. Think, Mordred. Think. She wouldn't just leave him, which means she was summoned. Only one person can activate the summoning stone. "Arthur Pendragon."

People separate in the corridor for the warlock, noticing the red in his eyes. As he stomps away, everyone knows to steer clear. It's plain to see... the powerful high priest is on a warpath.

"Arthur, don't."

"Come on, mate. We can talk about this after we're out of here."

"Arthur, you're better than this."

The men are desperate. They don't know what to do. Their friend looks like a lion watching his prey, ready to pounce. He's manic, like he's gone back to primal instincts and he's positively savage.

Goddess, there's nothing she can do. Never anything she can do. She can tell she's materializing in the footie locker room. Before she can even take a second glance, she's being yanked by her wrist and thrown into the lockers. Arthur holds her against the metal by her shoulders.

"What the ever loving fuck, Merlynn?! You want to explain this to me!" He shows her the Instagram post. "Why is my soulmate snogging her ex in the middle of the school's fucking corridor?!"

The room has gone silent. All the players are in various stages of undress. Some in towels, some shirtless, some still dressed for footie, some all ready to leave, but everyone is watching the scene between the prince and his bodyguard.

He's only centimeters from her face, yet he's screaming at her. What can she say? He doesn't want to hear the truth. The truth that she still loves her ex, and the only reason her ex is an ex is because the prince made it so. But no, she can't say that. Those words will only provoke him. No, play it safe, Merlynn. "I'm sorry."

"Sorry? Sorry?! It's a little late for sorry, don't you think?!"

"Arthur, come on, now. Leave her alone. You need to calm down before anything." Lance tries to tug Arthur away from their friend, but he just twists out of the knight's grip.

Arthur finally pushes away from her, but still stands only a meter and a half away, staring at the photo displayed on whoever's mobile he's holding. It hurts. She has her legs crossed around the warlock and his soulmate is clearly enjoying the intimacy. She's never looked at him like that. Never. Not even when she did care for him. "I thought you were on suppresants."

"I am."

Does she think he's stupid? He's back in her face with the picture in view. "Clearly not, Merlynn! This is not the kiss of someone who's asexual!"

"I don't expect you to understand, Arthur! It's not about sex. It's about love. I don't need to feel aroused to love."

The trio don't know what to think. The prince is so unpredictable right now, so volatile. This could go well or very, very bad.

"I see. And you'll never love me, will you Merlynn?" Arthur pulls away from her, eyes to the floor, arms crossed, and shuffling his feet.

She can see he's hurt, but what he is feeling right now pales in comparison to what he has done to her. "I don't think I'm capable."

God, where is this going?! The three are primed for anything at this point.

"You know when I first met you and learned of the Ambrosian ways, women earning their men honor by making other men want them, all so that these men envied the one who has her. Well, I thought you were all daft, to be honest. I don't want any other man seeing what is for my eyes only."

"Arthur, I have made sure to dress as modest and plain as I possibly can. I know you don't want other men looking at me."

What is happening? Lance, Percival, and Elyan make sure they are close enough to hear the somewhat quiet dialogue, hoping it will give an indication the direction this is heading. Everything still seems as if it could go either way.

"No, I know. I mean... obviously." He gestures to the outfit. "No, what I'm saying is I'm starting to see the beauty of it. You really put yourself out there... for him. With the clothes, the dancing, the smiles, and all for him. Everything was for him. Not because you were supposed to, not because you were obligated but because you love him, and you wanted to honor him in every way." He looks to Merlynn and she nods.

Goddess, is he really starting to understand? Is this torment almost over... for good?

The other legends know their old friend and the actions and tone show acceptance, but his words are foreboding, and if Arthur Pendragon is anything, he is a man of his word. The knowing alarm on their faces prove they're all in agreement and bracing for this seemingly docile prince to start showing his true colors.

"Judging from this picture it's safe to say he's found a way around the sparks, correct?" She nods, which he returns in understanding. "And I'm guessing you both want to go back to the sharing option? You know, since I already have your virtue, it's clear that I come first, right"

I think he is! I think he's finally understanding! "You always were first Arthur. From the beginning. To both of us."

"Except with the bond, that part is only mine?"

The witch tries not to show her bitterness that he has shackled her to him literally for all time. "I can only be intimate with you for eternity, Arthur. I will never again be with another man." She hates the smug look on his face. He still doesn't really comprehend the cruelty of his actions, and will never apologize for it. She has reconciled herself to that fact.

Shit! It's coming! It's glaringly obvious. How she doesn't see it, they'll never know. They assume she may know everything about Arthur, but she doesn't know Arthur. Anyone who knows him can read the signs easy. One, that will never change, that is him to his core... Arthur... will never... share. And as predicted...

It took two classes, but someone finally knew where the prince was. Footie practice. Now, he just needs to find the damn field. Ah... "Excuse me..."

Fast as a viper, the prince is back in her face and using his body to trap her against the wall. What the hell? His countenance has completely transformed, practically snarling. Once more fear strangles her and tears begin to descend.

"You seem to be forgetting something, Merlynn. You are bonded to me. You already are mine. In soul and..." His lecherous gaze travels over her form. "...body."

Fuck!

"Arthur, please stop," she says weeping.

"The only way he will ever be in the picture is if I allow it, and out of the kindness of my heart. Unfortunately for you, Merlynn, I'm a selfish bastard when it comes to my soulmate. What did you call it? Oh yes. Jealous, possessive toddler. You're right, my love. That's exactly what I am. Gimme, gimme..." He leans in to whisper in her ear. "...gimme."

They need to get everyone out of here! "Back off, guys! Go back to what you were doing! Give them some privacy!" Each of the knights are doing their best to disperse the crowd, but not having too much success. They can't resist. The crown prince is screaming at his girlfriend, and anyone can see he's only just getting started.

"Arthur... please... stop." Her speech is starting to split through the sobs. He has her completely enclosed and shoulders fixed to the locker.

"You really went all out for him, Merlynn, and I changed my mind. I want you to do the same for me. I want you to bring me honor by making everyone gagging for it, gagging for you. And then you will show everyone your arse is mine, and they. Can't. Have. You." In one swift move he rips her shirt open, sending the buttons scattering in all directions.

Merlynn gasps at the sudden exposure and tries to curl in on herself, closing her shirt. "Arthur!" She's bawling now.

Holy shit! "Get everyone out of here, now!" Lance screams to his two friends.

"Turn your arses around or face me!" A Percival threat means something.

"Now!" Elyan's smaller, but his voice can really carry.

Arthur hauls Merlynn to her feet and pins her wrists, keeping her from shielding herself. "Uh, uh, uh. It's time you earn me some honor. Valiant?!"

Merlynn's crying too hard to even speak. She remembers Valiant. He's the smarmy player that tried to pull her the first time she guarded Arthur at a game. "Ar ar th thur!"

"Arthur, what the hell are you doing?! Valiant, I swear to god, you take one more step and you will have to deal with us later!" Lance gestures to his fellow knights.

"Valiant! Get your arse over here!"

The player looks to the trio and shrugs. "Sorry guys. It's by order of the prince." He smirks and continues his trek to the 'happy' couple.

Okay, he's found the field, but where are the players?

"Can I help you?"

Mordred turns towards the voice, a middle aged man with a messenger bag. Likely a teacher. "Actually, yes. Could you tell me where the team is?"

"Well they finished practice not too long ago. My guess, they're still in the locker room."

He summoned her to the locker room? "I see. Perchance you know where it is?"

"Yeah sure. Here's what you want to do. You..."

Goddess, he wants to show her half naked to his teammate! Like prize cattle at a fair!

"Don't look so embarrassed, Merlynn. Trust me, you've exposed yourself far more than this with parts of your wardrobe."

The arse is now approaching and she can feel his filthy gaze traveling over any bare skin, a nice pause on her black lacey bra. She's desperately trying to squirm away, completely mortified.

"So, what do you think of my girlfriend, Valiant?"

"Arthur please," she slurs.

"Shh. Answer, Valiant."

"Are you serious?"

"Of course I'm serious. Answer the damn question!"

"She's gorgeous, mate."

"She is, isn't she? You want her, right?"

"Arthur! Bloody hell! What the fuck do you think you're doing?!"

"Shut it, Lance. She's earning ME honor for once!" He turns back to his other teammate. "Now, where was I?"

"Uh, I think you were lending me your girl. If that's the case, I definitely accept."

Merlynn thinks she's gonna be sick. She can't stand to look at the pervert, who's practically drooling.

"You want to touch her?"

"Nooo! Arthur, stop this, please!"

"You, don't get to talk, witch!" He looks to Valiant. "If you want to, go ahead, before I change my mind."

Unfortunately, there's no intervention coming for this. The three are busy with crowd control and don't realize what is happening. Even if Merlynn screamed for them they wouldn't hear her.

"Hell yeah!" The excited player moves in closer to the raven beauty.

She's crying harder now, Arthur making sure her bra is in full view. She knows he won't be able to do much before he's shocked. But he will get something. She can't use magic. Arthur will just do something even worse.

Arthur's teammate finally grabs her breast but of course is shocked back. "What the hell?"

"Yeah, see. There's a thing about my girl here. No man can touch her but me. Oh and apparently... Mordred," he says with a sneer. "But don't worry. There's still more to come. Call the guys over. Merlynn and I here are about to put on a real good show." He smirks.

All right, he found the corridor. Just need the door, and he'll have his beloved back. Where are you, bloody door?

She's shaking in fear. Please don't be going where she thinks this is going! "Arthur, please let me go. I will never see Mordred again. I promise."

"Oh, I know you won't, love. I'm going to make you regret you ever saw him today." He jerks her off the lockers and propels her to the floor.

She yelps at the impact, but doesn't think twice as she fights to claw herself away. Of course Arthur is on her in seconds, pinioning her wrists to the concrete.

"Hey guys! This way. His highness is calling." Valiant smirks aware of the future entertainment.

The knights know that can't be good. But they soon are crowded out from what everyone is watching in the center. All they know is they hear their friend wailing now. Fuck!

Found it! I'm coming, dragonlady.

"Arthur!"

"You humiliated me, Merlynn. You shamed me over the entire planet. This is nothing." He pins her wrists now above her head and starts to kiss her neck and chest. She screams, and he covers her mouth. "You see everyone! Despite what you saw in that picture, Merlynn here, is mine. And I'm gonna prove it." He grasps her wrists in a single grip and slides his hand down to the top of her jeans.

The woman is giving everything her natural body has, then she feels the button and zipper snap and split. Goddess, he's going to rape her in front of the whole team! Someone help her! Mordred!

He feels it. He doesn't know how he knows, but he does. She needs him now! He breaks out into a run, then teleports to the door, not hesitating to blast it open. He's here.

With Merlynn's screaming silenced, the legends hear the prince's pronouncement, and are pulling their hair out on how to help her. Turns out they don't have to. Their teammates are suddenly airborne in all directions. They finally see what the men were watching and Lance genuinely thinks he's going to throw up. Lying on the floor is Merlynn with Arthur laying on top of her. As sickening as that is, what's beyond terrifying is the red eyed warlock standing on the other side of the room.

"Get away from her!"

"Mordred. How nice of you to join us." The prince says with a complacent grin.

"I'm warning you, Pendragon. If you don't get off her right now you will meet your prophesied's bane."

"Oh really? I'd like to see you try." He backs away knowingly.

His eyes start to glow and he raises his hand.

"Mordred, no!" She couldn't stop it. She tried so hard to stop it. But Mordred flies slamming into the wall anyway. "Nooooo!" With Arthur's loosened grip and the adrenaline of her terror, Merlynn is finally able to shove the prince off of her and speedily crawl to her warlock. "Mordred? Goddess, please!" She now cries a different kind of tears. Her eyes glow and the witch assesses the damage. She can tell almost instantly he's bleeding in the brain. "Please let me save him!" She's begging Magic, hoping for once it chooses her. Merlynn's eyes flare... thank you.

Arthur stands off to the side smirking at the sight. Wouldn't it be poetic justice that his soulmate kills her beloved for him?

The trio watch their heartbroken witch bent over her warlock, not caring at all that her shirt remains split for all to see and even her knickers are slightly exposed. They are disgusted with their old friend observing the scene, clearly proud of everything that's transpired.

"Come on, Arthur. Leave her alone."

"Yeah, haven't you done enough?"

Arthur looks towards his Goddess and her ex. He thinks he's made his point. She won't be seeing him again. "Fine."

"Go on, Merlynn. Get him out of here."

She nods to Lance appreciatively, but before she leaves Arthur apparently has some parting words.

"Oh sweetheart?"

Sickened and furious, she twists her neck to face her tormenter.

"See you later, love. We need to have a little chat."

She doesn't even respond, just disappears.

"Arthur, I... I don't even know what to say to you. How could you do that?"

"You saw the photo, Lance, the picture that has literally circled the globe of her snogging him, climbing him like a fucking tree!"

"Arthur, you say you love her, but that wasn't love. That was hate."

"Yeah, mate. You say that magic wants you both united. That you want her, that it wants her. That was not magic. That was all Arthur Pendragon and his classic jealousy."

The three return to their lockers to dress and go home. Arthur doesn't say anything. They're wrong. Everyone is wrong. She is his and god dammit, the world will know! He'll show them. He'll show them all!

Merlynn and Mordred arrive on the outskirts of Ambrosia.

"Oh, beloved. I am so sorry." She needs to get him to the healers, but she can't cross the border. Her eyes glow and she sends a golden tendril winding it's way to her parents home, her backpack likely still lying on the magical studies' floor with her mobile. They'll get the message. Merlynn kneels over Mordred. Magic at least healed him somewhat. She was afraid it would side with Arthur and let him die, but he still needs the healers and definitely rest. Ambrosia will also keep him safe... from her. He's clearly on a mission, and if he comes back there's no telling what Magic will do. She looks down and realizes her shirt is still splayed open, as well as her jeans. If they were skinny jeans, they wouldn't be so bad, but being regular, they're practically falling off. Merlynn can't let her parents find her in such a state. She waves her hand and changes into clothing summoned from her closet. Still fairly modest. Not Pendragon approved modesty, but fine for the general public.

"Merlynn?"

The witch's eyes are drawn to her father who's across the border. "Where's mum?"

"Ambrosian forest, tending to a wounded centaur." He spots Mordred lying at her feet. "What happened?" he says brusquely, dropping to examine the Ambrosian boy.

"Me," Merlynn cowers in remorse.

"What do you mean, little bird?" Balinor stands and embraces his distraught daughter.

"Oh da, it was so awful." She sobs. "He tried to save me, but of course, Magic intervened and saved the king, instead."

"He tried to save you from the King? Why? What was Arthur doing?"

Merlynn steps away from her father, unable to look at him. "It's been bad, da. Really bad. Arthur's jealousy and possessiveness are out of control. He's uh... He hasn't stopped. Mordred showed up, and I uh... I just wasn't thinking. From the moment I saw him that was it. Well, we drew attention and pictures were taken and photos are posted of us all over. And he, the... Arthur saw it. He wasn't happy. Do you remember when I told you about the summoning stone I created for him to use for emergencies? Well, it works. I've saved him from a plane crash and a drowning, but he now uses it for when... when he... wants... me. Well, he summoned me today and I ended up in the footie team's locker room. He yelled at me, and I first thought he was finally understanding... but I was wrong. He almost did it again, but in front of the whole team! He said he was going to prove to everyone that I was his and not Mordred's. It was so humiliating," Merlynn says sniffling. "The team was all standing around watching, practically cheering him on. My friends tried to help, but there were just too many of them. I thought it was going to happen, but Mordred saved me. And in return, I almost killed him." The dam breaks once more and a barrage of guilt ridden tears fall.

"No, little bird. No. He knows that wasn't you. He knows." Balinor envelops his daughter in his arms. Their king isn't a savior at all. He's a monster.

No one knows how long they stand there before Merlynn pulls away and falls next to her warlock and kisses his forehead. "Tell him I love him. I always will. But he needs to move on and forget about me. Everyone always said I was the Once and Future King's. Well, they were right. I just didn't know it meant this." The witch kisses him once more. Her eyes glow gold and a familiar piece of jewelry previously kept in a bedside table appears in her hand. She opens Mordred's fist and closes it around the two pieces of her engagement ring. "Goodbye, my love." She rises to face her father. "He had a bleed in his brain. Magic healed it, but he probably still..." Oh no. The tug. The tug to her pain and torture. She bites her lip and twists away from the dragonlord, hugging herself as if the personal ribbon is all the protection she'll need. This time the glistening drops stream silently from her eyes.

"Little bird?"

"Goodbye da." She embraces her father one last time, who's confused with the farewell parting. He hugs her tightly, sensing the desperation. "I love you."

Then the spirit of a broken Goddess is all that remains of his baby girl. "Merlynn?!"

The dragonlord momentarily stunned with his daughter's disappearance realizes she was summoned. His precious little bird called on as a whore. He can't help her. Merlynn's magic would hurt him and that would break her beyond repair. "May the Goddess be with her." He scoops Mordred up bridal style. "Come on, son. Let's get you to the healers."

Of course it's the prince's bedroom. Where else would it be? Once the vision is clear she's tossed over his shoulder and thrown onto the bed. Bit cliche, Arthur, isn't it? The stream still streaks her face, but the glare isn't fear or sadness. It's loathing.

"Well hello." He skims over her form. "This outfit is better. Still not classic Merlynn, but it does highlight your... assets." He smirks. "How's the warlock?"

"Don't mention him. Don't say his name. Don't even hint toward him." She is angry. He may have her body. Fuck, he may have her soul. But he will not have her memory of her beloved.

"Ooooh. There's some fire. I like it. All right. I'll give you that. I told you we need to have a little chat, and we do. But what do you say we finish where we left off earlier?"

She doesn't even flinch. She's too broken to even care about anything. Whatever, let him do what he wants. She has her own plans for later. The sooner this is over with, the sooner she can go.

Arthur can see her sort of resigned attitude, but it's not one of surrender. She isn't submitting to him. She's sort of giving herself to him, but not like a gift, more like an obligation. Like he's some chore she has to take care of. And he doesn't like it. "No, I don't think so. I've decided, Merlynn, that although you failed to comply to my rules I'm still going to hold up my end. I will not fuck you until we have our memories back and you can see for yourself what I've been talking about. However, I do want something. I wasn't kidding this afternoon. I do want you to start earning me honor. You humiliated me with your little stunt. So you need to make it up to me. You are going to start showing everyone whose girl you really are. There are some ideas I've had, places we can go, where you'll prove without any doubt, you are mine."

The Goddess may not be here anymore, so "Fine. Can I go now?"

Arthur can't help but feel like he's being blown off. He fists her hair infuriated. "Listen here, witch. Drop the attitude. I'm doing you a favor. I could tear your clothes off, flip you over and fuck you doggy style." Her eyes widen finally showing some genuine fear. Good. Now she remembers who's in charge. "But I won't. Because believe it or not, I do love you. Even though you said you could never love me. I will always love you."

Merlynn has to stop herself from rolling her eyes. This bastard wouldn't know real love if it bit him in the arse.

"Now, I'll let you know when the time comes when we'll be making our debut."

Doesn't matter. "Can I go now?"

"Hang on. I want a kiss goodbye first."

Blagh! Fine, whatever. Get it over with, so she can get the hell out of there. She just nods her consent. The raven feels his lips on hers and she can't help but compare it to Mordred's kisses. Night and day. Especially since he starts moving her into what she's begun labeling his signature position, securing her wrists above her head.

Fuck, she tastes so good! Restraint Arthur! Restraint! He would still be keeping his word if they just fooled around some. Particularly if it was clothes on. With her arms fixed above her head he uses his other to fondle her breasts. She's screaming into the kiss now and trying to buck him off. Which reminds him there's another part of him that needs some satisfaction. He starts thrusting his clothed erection over her denim clad thigh. Ah. Perfect. Well, not perfect. Perfect would be fucking her, but this will do. He continues thrusting on animal instinct and returns his focus to her voluptuous breasts. His soulmate is crying again, her tears soaking his own cheeks. The Arthur's doing everything over clothes, but letting his imagination take him back to their first night. He remembers the full, pale white globes, and using the pads of his fingertips to make circles around the perfect pink crowns. He realizes in his musing he must have begun using his thumbs to locate her nipples through her shirt and bra. There. He smiles into the still endless kiss and continues exploring her mouth. He knows he's getting close now. He's alternating between breasts, groping, squeezing and thumbing the now hard tips through the two layers of clothes. Fuck, she's perfect.

This is not only a kiss! This is so much more than just a kiss! She's still screaming into his mouth, but of course he doesn't care. Merlynn doesn't know why she expected him to. And she definitely doesn't understand what in the world he's doing to her leg. She knows the hard rod she feels is his cock. She's learned that much. But what is supposed to be happening? She doesn't understand. She can't believe people are actually aroused by this. It's repulsive and disgusting. Please goddess, let this be over!

Fuck, he's close! So close, just a couple. More. Thrusts. And... There. And he's exploding into his trousers. The prince continues to rut against her leg through his orgasm. Then he finally releases her.

She sits up and leaps off the bed. "That was more than a kiss, Arthur!"

"Yeah, well. I couldn't resist."

"Apparently seems to be a theme with you."

"When it comes to you, I guess it is. You can go now."

She doesn't wait around for him to change his mind. She disappears.

Merlynn reappears in her room and promptly heads to her computer to power it up. She clicks on the Google icon and does a search for the most remote place on Earth. Somewhere called the Bouvet Island, located in the South Atlantic Ocean. "An uninhabited subantarctic volcanic island. Perfect." She looks at the coordinates according to Wikipedia and sees if she can pull up a satellite image. "There you are." Merlynn lets Magic soak in the location. This is probably the farthest she's ever teleported before. Based on the temperatures listed she waves her hand so she now wears a complete arctic appropriate winter suit. Finally, her eyes glow, and she summons a set of magic restraining cuffs. Fully dressed and with the cuffs in hand... Soon Merlynn is standing in what could very well be the coldest place on Earth.

Goddess, she hopes this works. She stops time. Merlynn checks to verify the magic flowing in and out of her has also stopped and smiles. This might actually work. She got the idea from the little boy in the store. She throws the restraints on the ground out in front of her. The witch starts to draw it all in, any magic around her from the air, the earth, the water, anywhere and everywhere, as much as she can possibly take in until it is painful and might mean the end of the Merlynn vessel. The witch stops when she feels like she's teetering on the edge of explosion and faces the restraints, raising her hands towards them. Then the Goddess... lets... go. All the magic, everything she absorbed from the world around her, pours into the restraints, the pressure of a guiser from the greatest depths of the ocean. She releases it all, every last drop, until not even the Goddess Emrys could light a candle. Merlynn knows that as Magic incarnate if she unleashes all of it, only her husk will remain, but if she's right that will fix itself. As predicted, she begins to feel faint and see spots, then nothing. Now that she's unconscious she can no longer maintain the power that stopped time. Thus it resumes, and the mystical stream flows through her once more, reviving the Goddess' vessel. Merlynn hoists herself to her feet, a little wobbly at first but quickly gains her bearings. She can feel it, the power flowing in and out of her, the heart of magic, fully replenished. Merlynn notices the golden cuffs that still lie on the ground in front of her and lifts them off the ice. Magic recoils in fear and she smirks wickedly. Finally, restraining cuffs more powerful than Magic itself.

"Goodbye Emrys."

14. Another absolute must have is anything that needs to be said, is. No words that someone needs to hear get left unsaid. This coincides with my Uther requirement earlier. It's a pet peeve of mine when characters get away with whatever and no one says a thing. In my story, they do, and in the most BAMF way I can think of.

Fun fact: The case of the two year old holding their breath... I speak from experience, except of course I was hysterical. I learned I am not great in a crisis. My brain pretty much checks out.

I love using the concept for Merlynn's magic restraints. I rarely am able to toot my own horn, but this is one instance I think I actually was creative.

Fun fact: That really is the most remote place on Earth.