Arthur is disappointed. Merlynn is disappointed. Merlynn is BAMF.
"What the hell is MLA format?" she mumbles under her breath. Merlynn is at her desk, staring at her computer screen, surrounded by her text and personal grimoires. While reviewing a website detailing the paper style guide, God Save the King resounds through her room. "Goddess!" She frantically digs through all the chaos until she finds what she is looking for. "Arthur?! Are you okay?! What's going on?!"
"Woah! Calm down. Everything is fine."
"Oh, sorry. I just couldn't find my phone and sort of... panicked."
"No problem. Don't forget I have the stone, so if I'm calling you it's likely not an emergency," he teases.
"Yeah... right. Forgot about that, tee-hee." She titters at her own silliness. "Well, if you don't need me, why'd you call?"
Oh, Arthur needs you, Merlynn. Arthur definitely needs you. Focus! "Um... yeah. I uh... I was wondering if you wanted to get some coffee... with me. Would you... want to get some coffee with me?" Smooth Pendragon, real smooth.
"I would Arthur, but I'm slammed writing this stupid paper." She anxiously clicks from site to site, trying to find any instruction that makes sense. "I mean... I can just explain all of this, and it would be so much faster!" She lurches from her seat and flings her text onto her bed. "Why do they need a paper?! I don't have the first clue how to write a paper." The raven flails her arms in frustration, pacing. "I've always done things hands-on." She sighs and dives back in front of her laptop praying the internet will be her saving grace. "I'm hoping Mr. Google can teach me."
"Well, I can teach you." No one ever said he wasn't opportunistic.
"You can?" She stops short. Has her salvation presented itself? "Do you know what MLA format is?"
"Merlynn, writing papers is kind of essential in traditional school. Of course I know."
"Really?! Oh Goddess, that would be great! I'm drowning here."
"All right. Well, do you want me to come over?"
"I would be forever grateful, truly. Thank you! Just tell your Guard you're coming to mine. He won't be necessary. Uh... how long can I have you?" Please say until she's finished!
Forever. "Uh, I don't have anything the rest of the day. If you want me, you could have me through the evening." And we can work on your paper too.
"Oh, I want you. I definitely want you. I really appreciate this! I know you probably didn't want to spend all day with me, but I'll owe you one, yeah?"
"Hey, I called to ask you to have coffee, so I think I wanted to spend time with you."
"Yeah, but probably not working on citations."
Go big or go home. "Merlynn, I would spend time with you anyway I could. I like being with you."
Her King, a savior in more ways than one. "Aww, that's so sweet. I like being with you too. And I promise I won't take advantage of you. I just really need help."
"You can take advantage of me anytime you want, sweetheart."
Perfect! She just might meet her deadline. "Oh thank you! I appreciate it. When can you be here?"
Fuck, this woman needs a class in innuendo. "Uh... give me thirty."
"Okay, see you soon! Bye!" Click. Thank you goddess!
--
Arthur is actually going to spend the day with her! His Merlynn! His raven beauty! He doesn't think he could pry the smile from his face if he tried, and right now she's as excited as him. Who cares it's because he's helping her with homework. Knight in shining armor and damsel in distress is a classic trope that rarely fails. He's in there. Oh yeah, he's patently in there. He changes his clothes twice and styles his hair only to tousle it again, going for a more natural look, when it dawns on him appearance means nothing to the witch because of those damn suppresants. No, he has to reach her heart, her soul when it comes to him. Okay Pendragon, time to turn on the charm.
When he exits his flat he happens upon his Guard. "Ah, Bohrs, I know I was planning on heading to the library, but I'm going to be going to Merlynn's for the rest of the day instead. Your services won't be needed. Thanks for coming out, though."
"You're going to that witch's?"
Arthur hears the disdain in his tone. Unacceptable! He turns to face the Guard who's practically snarling at the mention of his Goddess' name. "Excuse me?"
Bohrs' eyes widen, quickly realizing the error of his ways.
"Tell me, Bohrs. Can you battle twelve high ranking magic users, save the entire royal family and a crowd full of people, with a wave of your hand?" Arthur's in his face, toe to toe. The seasoned Guard fearfully wags his head. "No? Well, then I suggest you keep your mouth shut. That woman deserves your respect, not your contempt. She fulfilled her duty as well as the rest of the Guards' that night. And you know what, Bohrs? They were grateful. They happen to think it is more important that lives were saved and not who saved them. If this is nothing but competition to you then maybe you are in the wrong profession. I think you're more looking for Olympic sports. Then you can really show off your skills, maybe win us the gold. Would you prefer to serve your country that way, Bohrs?"
He desperately shakes his head. Wow, he really hit a nerve. This is going to take some major backpedaling "No sir. I am honored to be Royal Guard. My apologies. I am grateful Ms. Ambrose was present for the benefit, sir."
"Good." The prince pats him on the back. "Good to have you Bohrs." Arthur's already a few steps down when he ounds again to face his security. "Oh Bohrs, Merlynn happens to be a very good friend of mine. Consider any slight against her a slight against me. If I hear of anymore derision in her direction... well, I think tryouts are in a few months." The Guard flinches. Arthur, self-satisfied he's defended his love, darts down the rest of the stairs, much too energetic for the lift. No one messes with his Merlynn.
--
Knock. Knock. Knock.
Merlynn shoots off the couch rearing to get started. She's been battling this stupid assignment for hours already. She flings the door open and practically leaps into her champion's arms. "Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! I was sure I was going to fail, and I know the king is just looking for a reason to expel me. Can you imagine? Magic failing magic. Talk about embarrassing! Anyway, you're a total life saver! I mean... I know you're already the savior, but you know... in this."
The first thing he notices after... no, actually during her enthusiastic embrace is he's touching bare skin. When she finally falls from his arms he sees why. She's wearing a loose t-shirt that cuts off just under her breasts and... god, no bra! Paired with skin tight denim cut offs that dangle fringe... Arthur REALLY wishes he had a jacket or backpack. He can't tear his eyes away.
Merlynn notices he's staring at her outfit and remembers she had forgotten to make the necessary adjustments. "Goddess! Sorry, I was home by myself and I didn't think to make alterations for company. Hang on." She waves a hand over her clothes extending their hems (a bra never occurs to her). "There. I swear I don't mean to offend anyone. Still getting used to your culture. Come on in." She widens the door.
He 'accidentally' rubs up against her as he enters. Come on, he's a red blooded male, so sue him. Was he really going to pass up a chance to brush practically bare breasts, especially his soulmate's? He can't fathom how she believes she offended him. Her naivety continues to boggle his mind. God, he would love to teach her! Professor Pendragon, at your service. "No offense taken. Where do you want to work?" There you go, change the subject.
"Uh... the bedroom?"
Or not. Give him strength. "The bedroom is fine."
"Oh good. I already have everything laid out there. How 'bout you head in. It's the one on the end there." She gestures down the hall. "So we'll have complete privacy. Make yourself comfortable, and I'll get us some drinks. Tea? Water? Coffee?"
"Tea, please. Thank you."
"Not a problem." Merlynn scampers to the kitchen while Arthur moseys to her bedroom.
"So this is where my heart sleeps." He can picture her laying in deep slumber, and he wonders what she's wearing under those linens. Knowing what her average wardrobe is, he can only imagine the woman's lingerie. Fuck. How is he going to do this? He should have worn a cock cage.
"Here we are." Merlynn strolls in carrying two tea cups, but trips through the doorway. Arthur just barely catches her. Needless to say, the tea is now spread between the furniture and carpet. Fortunately, it steered clear of her King. She swiftly regains her footing, blushing madly. "Goddess, I'm so sorry! Here." With golden eyes, a moment later two full teacups rest on her nightstand. "I promise you they're clean, but if you're too worried I can make more."
"No, that won't be necessary. You're amazing, you know that? With that skill, clumsiness is wasted on you." She coyly grins at the approval. She's so adorable.
Merlynn finally turns her attention to her bed. "Shoot, I'm such a mess. Here, I'll move some of these books." But before she can, Arthur grips her wrist.
"That's all right. Don't want to inconvenience you when you've everything sorted. There's a spot where we can both fit if we squeeze in." He gestures to the center of the headboard. "I don't mind." No, I don't mind at all.
"Well, if you don't mind. Here, I'll set up some pillows. We can hunker down all cozy like." She fetches some pillows from the corner and arranges them along the back.
"That would be perfect." Definitely don't mind getting all cozy with you.
Once they start, Arthur is surprised that thoughts of sex virtually disintegrate. Merlynn not only has never written a paper before, but she has no clue about sentence structure or punctuation. Shit, she doesn't know what a noun or verb are! Sure, she can read and write fluently in both English and French, but she is ignorant of why words are placed where they are in a sentence. She's always written how she speaks, knowing the comma symbol represents pauses. She has eidetic memory, so she writes how she's seen it scripted before. Clearly the prince has his work cut out for him. Composing a university paper is obviously contrary to other resources, especially fiction. God. She eventually has to magic at least remedial knowledge to give her a foundation of the basics. She refuses to wave her hand for the more advanced curriculum. She wants to do as much as she can secularly.
That is fine by Arthur. He loves teaching her. Sure, he wouldn't be opposed to 'other instruction,' but he genuinely enjoys this, just spending time with her. Merlynn is fun! She's both playful and silly with a teasing sense of humor. But she also is diligent and driven, and is keen to learn, humbly accepting any help. He honestly can't say anything negative about her work ethic or company... and he is so in love, it hurts. Yes, Merlynn is the full package, beautiful inside and out. And she's his, damn it! She simply doesn't know it yet.
By the time they are finished Merlynn has a completed research paper on curses, hexes, and cures. And she could never have accomplished this seemingly insurmountable feat without her King. Yawning she glances at the clock. "Goddess, look at the time! I'm sorry for keeping you so late, but I really can't thank you enough. I don't want to just magic my education. I really enjoyed learning it the traditional way, specifically with you. You're a great teacher." She nudges him genially.
What can he do with this minute? He can't kiss her, that wouldn't go over well, wholly because she's not attracted to him. No, what he needs is another connection, another moment that runs so deep, it's that place soley reserved for Arthur. He lays his hand over hers. "Merlynn, just like I am your everything, you're mine. I may not be able to give you a summoning stone, but through that," indicates his phone, "I'm yours day or night. After all, my princely obligations should take a backseat to the other half of my soul, shouldn't they?"
"Oh Arthur." With his cheek in her hand she warmly kisses the other one. "Even without perfect memory, I don't think I could ever forget those words." She tenderly squeezes his hand. "Hey, this has been all work. How'd you like to come again sometime and we can watch a superhero movie? They seem to be something else we have in common. Why not share that time together?"
She's actually looking at him nervously! Like he would turn her down! Keep it cool, Arthur. "Absolutely. I would love to watch a movie with you." Is this a date? With Merlynn you never know. There! There's the moment. The moment when their eyes do the tractor beam, trapped in each other's gaze.
"Hey, why don't we get you outta here, eh. Let you finally get some sleep." She scoots to the edge and boosts herself off the bed.
"Uh, all right." He follows her to the front door. The whole day has been pure bliss. He knows they've crossed over the line, that metaphorical line that defines a relationship. Yep, no more friend zone for him.
She hugs him one more time. "Thanks again, Arthur, truly. I don't know what I'd have done without you." She clutches his forearm and opens the door.
Before he leaves, he turns and stands in her doorway. "Hey, it's no problem. Anytime. Really. You need to get some sleep too, don't you?"
"Yeah, but I first have to call Mordred. We talk every night."
What? Just... what? Stay calm. "Isn't it kind of late? Wouldn't he be asleep?"
"Oh, he's always got time for me. Bye now." She winks and shuts the door.
He's staring at a closed door. Fuuuuck! That's it! He draws his phone from his pocket, not even considering the time.
Ring... ring... ring...
"Hello?"
"Gwen, we need to talk."
--
When the resident brunette finally vacates the witch's room she is gobsmacked. She knew Merlynn's culture was different, but this... this is... wow! How is she supposed to explain it to Arthur? How can she rationalize it when she can barely justify it herself? She doesn't blame Merlynn. She doesn't even blame her clan. Gwen understands why they did it. It's just... poor Arthur. All she wants to do is wrap him in a big teddy bear hug and hold him. She doesn't want to tell him, but he asked for her help. Well, might as well not delay the inevitable. Just, don't shoot the messenger.
Ring... ri...
"Gwen?"
"Yeah, um hi Arthur." God, he must have been waiting for her call. "How are you?"
"Fine. What happened? Did you talk to her?"
Straight to it, eh. Okay... "Uh, yeah... Yes, I mean yes. I talked to her. How 'bout we get together, huh? Have some coffee and we can chat, yeah?"
"Fuck! I can't today. I'm being prepped for that stupid Swiss meeting. I don't know why I have to, it's always the same shit. Uh... can we do tomorrow? Cafe Mocha, say around noon?"
Damn! She has class. Oh, but he's so desperate. That's all right. She can miss one for her friend. "Sure, that's fine."
"Good! Okay. Then I'll see you tomorrow at noon. Uh, Gwen? Is it bad?"
"Let's just talk tomorrow, okay?" She knows he knows. The lull confirms it.
"Yeah, okay, tomorrow. Thanks Gwen."
"Don't mention it." Really don't mention it. "Bye." Click.
God, she needs Lance.
--
Arthur is early. He pretty much just spent his morning watching the clock. He knows it's not good. He doesn't understand why he's so anxious to hear bad news. While he's staring at the table, hands folded, twiddling his thumbs, he hears chimes ring. He glances up to see Gwen and trailing behind her is Lance. They know all Arthur's disguises by now and have no trouble locating him. Lancelot stops off at the line for coffee while she makes her way to the prince.
"Hi Arthur."
"I see you brought reinforcements. That can't be good." She gives him a sympathetic smile and lays her hand over his. Yep, not good. Not good at all.
"Arthur." The ex-knight plants himself next to Gwen holding two cappuccinos. "You don't have any coffee? I can get you some." He starts to rise, but Arthur stops him.
"No, that's all right. Just... give it to me straight, Gwen."
She's been observing her friend. She knows he's nervous, and her heart breaks for him. He looks so small like this, hardly the royal would be king he actually is. No, he more resembles a child crumpled into his seat, already anticipating the bad news she knows he knows is coming. She feels Lance squeeze her thigh for support. Well, it's now or never. "Okay, I have good news and I have bad news. The good news is she does have feelings for you. You haven't imagined any of those moments between you, and she was asking you for a date the other night."
"She was?!" Wow, she really did ask him out! And she does like him?! But what could possibly be the bad news?
Gwen watches as his countenance transforms from elation to confusion. God, here's what's going to swallow any happiness her friend has gained. Maybe she shouldn't have mentioned any good news. She sighs at her mistake. Shoulda, coulda, woulda, Gwen. Best to rip the band-aid off. "Arthur, I'm sorry, but she's not giving up Mordred."
What? Arthur snorted. She has to be joking, but Gwen isn't laughing. What the hell?! "If she's staying with Mordred then why the fuck did she ask me out?!" Gwen is eyeing him with pity.
She take a deep breath and continues. "Do you remember at Morgana's when you two shared that first... connection, and she ran away?" He gives a tight nod. "Well, she did feel something for you. She ran because she thought she had been unfaithful. So she talked to her mum and Mordred, and they uh... told her... some things." Arthur rolls his hand for her to continue, obviously annoyed. "Well uh... unbeknownst to Merlynn, her clan and Mordred apparently are okay with her having a relationship with you. They were not surprised at all you both shared a moment and actually expected it. They encourage Emrys to have romance with the Once and Future King."
"Okay, this isn't making any sense. You're telling me her own fiancé wants us to be together?"
God. "Uh... yes. With all you both are set to accomplish, it would behoove you to be in love, according to the Ambrosians."
"Well then why in the hell did they betrothe her to someone else?!"
"To save you, Merlynn, and Mordred." Arthur seems beyond confused. "You know the prophecy. Well, by them being engaged, according to the clan, saved you by steering Mordred on a different path, saved Mordred from his own destiny, and saved Merlynn by giving her the free will to make her own choice."
"How is it giving her free will when she's forced in an arranged marriage when she's six?!"
"Because the rest of the magical community would have her walking down the aisle to you whether she wanted it or not. This way she can choose." Now the really hard part. "Merlynn is Emrys, Arthur. Nothing can hold her down unless she wants to be there. She's not trapped. She chose this. She put herself on the suppresants, she can take herself off of them, but chooses not to, because she's faithful to Mordred." Here's the bomb. "Arthur, she's not with Mordred to save your life anymore. He wanted her to be with him for the right reasons, so he swore on his magic he'd never harm you. The prophecy is officially thwarted. He is no longer your bane, not this lifetime anyway. She's with him because she loves him. She's in love with him."
Arthur has fallen, slumped into his seat utterly dejected, or rejected as it were... Or is he? "I still don't understand what they expect of me."
With a sigh, Gwen elaborates. "Mordred is fully aware you are first in Merlynn's life. You always have been and always will be, and he's fine with it. He's perfectly happy being second place. The way she puts it, he's one of her greatest supporters in a romance between you both. But she still has full intentions on marrying Mordred when he's of age, and he will have her virtue. He will be her husband for this lifetime, and you will be her King always. To them King trumps husband any day, and after she is wed, then you will have first rights to her... um... body. But until she has that first night with her... uh, husband," the brunette clears her throat. "your romance will be strictly asexual."
What? "Am I understanding you correctly that they expect me to share her?" Gwen's ducked head is enough confirmation. "I have to have a queen. I need an heir. She can't marry me too."
"Actually, Arthur, you would have always needed a queen. Merlynn is pure magic, technically not human. She can't have children."
"So what, she's supposed to be my mistress? My fucking piece on the side?!" Arthur is on his feet and drawing attention.
Lance notices. "Arthur, calm down." He grabs his friend's wrist to tug him back to his seat. "I know how it sounds, Arthur, but they don't see it that way. They acknowledge the situation is... unorthodox, but the whole circumstance of the prophecy is unorthodox. Nothing was ever going to be the norm between you two."
Arthur does agree that's true. Their life is odd to say the least. But can he really share Merlynn? It seems so demeaning. She's a Goddess, a queen if he ever saw one. Why would she agree to just be his bed warmer? But that's not what they're saying. She would be more than a wife. To her and her... husband, Arthur outranks him. She is his before she's Mordred's.
"Arthur?... Arthur? You can't seriously be considering this? I've known you practically your whole life. You couldn't share your toys, let alone your... women. This would kill you. No Arthur, you have to let this go. Let her go."
Gwen is right. He wants Merlynn for himself. It would destroy him to see her in the arms of another man. Not to mention the elephant in the room of having to remain celibate for four years. Is she kidding? She may be on suppresants, but he is not. No, he has to get over her. Back to the mantra - MERLYNN IS MY BODYGUARD AND PLATONIC FRIEND. "Thank you Gwen. You're right. I uh... I don't think I could... share. It just doesn't sit right."
"For most people, brother." Lance puts a hand on his shoulder in consolation. "Look, you probably should talk to her. Tell her where you stand and maybe put an end to the mixed signals, yeah? No use torturing yourself. And with her you need to be crystal clear. She truly doesn't know any better."
"Yeah, okay. Maybe after tomorrow's meeting at Morgana's."
"That's good. If you need extra support your sister's always good for a shoulder. Lance and I can stay too if you want." God she feels bad for him.
He gives them a weak smile and pushes himself out of his seat. "Thanks guys. I think I'm gonna head out. Enjoy the rest of your afternoon, yeah?"
After saying their goodbyes, the couple watch as their wretched friend plods off, head hung low.
"Now that is a sad, sad man."
"I know. It breaks my heart. He's in love with her, I know he is. And I think Merlynn could love him. But she adores Mordred. Elena says they remind her of you and I, and I'd never give you up."
He circles an arm around her shoulders and pulls her close to kiss the top of her head. "You'll never have to, babe." She lovingly smiles and nuzzles into him, so grateful they have each other.
Arthur wanders... alone. Forever alone.
--
"Merlynn?"
She turns to face her King. As soon as she sees who's beckoned her she dimples with crinkled eyes. "Arthur!" She wants to hurl herself into his arms and dissolve in his embrace. It felt so right Saturday, huddled in next to him, working closely together side by side. She's been looking forward to crawling into his lap and watching the green and metal man again. But his look stops her short. "What's wrong?"
"Do you think we can talk, after this I mean?"
"Uh... sure. We can talk." He pats her bicep and rounds her to the kitchen. What could that be about?
Arthur waltzes in and spots his sister pouring some wine. "Not too much, Morgs. We have a meeting."
"I know. I'm taking this seriously, Arthur. It's just one glass to sip, honest. Are you sure you don't want any? I saw you just now with Merlynn."
"No, I'm sticking with water. I need all my faculties tonight. And yes, I plan on talking to Merlynn."
Morgana watches her brother with pity. He doesn't deserve this. Even Morgause said Arthur was a good man, and she never thought she would have heard those words out of her sister's mouth. Just a few months, Morgana. Only a few short months.
"Come on. We need to get started." Arthur pinches her elbow then tilts his head towards the living room.
"I'm right behind you." She sighs and follows him out.
"All right everyone, gather in here, and we can get started!" As all the friends make their way in and find a seat Arthur prepares to take notes. He wants to track any progress they're making or not and make sure they aren't doubling up on anyone. Once everyone is situated he opens the meeting. Or he is about to.
"Uh, I wanted to ask something before we got started." Merlynn eyes him questioningly. "It's not related, but I needed to speak to everyone, and since they're all here... Do you mind?"
Arthur gestures her to proceed.
"Thank you." She grins appreciatively. "Um, next weekend, not this coming weekend but the following, I will be returning to Ambrosia. Two good friends of mine are being handfasted, and I wanted to know if you all wanted to come to the ceremony and reception. They know who all of you are, and well... you're kind of like celebrities. King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table. The clan should be able to tell who all the ladies are as well."
"Hell yeah, I want to go to Ambrosia!"
Merlynn smiles at her goofy roommate. "The thing is, well, we've talked about this before, and I don't want to offend anyone. The Ambrosian women will be dressed provocatively. If that makes you uncomfortable, you best not come. A handfasting tends to be worse."
"Shit, I don't care if they're wearing pasties and g-strings, I want to go. Can we go, Gwaine?"
"Of course, love."
Elena squeals and claps her hands excitedly. "Yes!"
One by one the rest of the group confirms their attendance. Merlynn looks at Arthur sitting off to the side and she strides over to him. "Arthur, what about you?"
"Um... well... I uh..." Say something Pendragon and get a hold of yourself! "I'll think about it." She turns up her lips ever so slightly and gives a tight nod in response. She knows something is wrong. He knows she knows. But he can't think about that now, they have to move forward. "All right people. Let's get this meeting back on track." Arthur doesn't look at Merlynn.
The group reported on their findings with the individual jobs. Gwaine and Elena gave the same story as Mithian and Sefa. In fact it was consistent with everyone, they'll stop dosages once Arthur is king. Unfortunately, that's when the bomb is dropped about the permanency of Liberty after six months. That seemed to deflate the entire group. The added news of administering the drug as prevention on pregnant woman, to say the mood was solemn would be a gross minimization of reality. Obviously, no one left that evening with smiles on their faces.
Arthur almost feels like his discussion with Merlynn will be a kick her while she's down type of situation, but he has to persevere. To delay would be cruel not just on her but to himself. His heart cannot bear for another moment thinking they are a possibility when he knows they aren't.
"So, you wanted to talk?"
Merlynn and Arthur are now sitting alone across from each other, in that same area on the second floor, defining their status once again. For Arthur it had been them confirming their devotion to each other. For Merlynn it was just assurance from her hero. Because ultimately that is what he is to her, isn't he? Just like for all her people. Her feelings may not even be real. It's like that first night where she said she was starstruck. Maybe that's all this is, something he's been getting his whole life, only this time not because he's the prince but because he's the savior. "Yes, yes I did." Now that she's here he's tongue-tied. How do you tell your soulmate you want to remain only friends?
"Arthur, you don't have to be afraid to talk to me."
"I only want to be friends." Well, apparently just like that. Merlynn's face drops, and he has to fight to hold his resolve.
"Oh. I'm sorry. I guess I misjudged things."
"You didn't misjudge anything Merlynn. I just..a. Gwen told me what you and Mordred expect of me, and I just can't. I'm not built that way. I need a queen, and I want my queen to be mine and mine alone."
"I could have never been your queen, Arthur. You need a heir, and I can't have children. You were always going to have to marry someone else."
"Merlynn, the Pendragon's need an heir, and I'm not the only Pendragon."
"You really would have married me?"
Arthur with all seriousness gazes directly in her eyes. "In a heartbeat." This was another moment, a moment where they are yoked not only on a different level but another plane, another dimension, something that is not of this Earth, but a place that only exists for them. "Ahem... but you have Mordred, and I... I can't be the other man."
"But..." Merlynn was scrambling. She never thought her King would reject her. "But you understand you would be first? Mordred knows that. Goddess, he knew before I did, and outside of myself, he's your greatest supporter."
"I know, and I appreciate it. But I... I'm sorry. I will be your king, I will be your friend, but I can't be anything else. I want someone who wants me and only me."
"I understand. I just... I was really starting to feel things... for you."
"Me too, Merlynn, me too. But, are you even attracted to me, Merlynn?"
"What do you mean attracted? If you mean it in the literal sense, then yes I feel drawn to you."
"I mean do you want to kiss me? Do you want... more, with me."
"You already know I can't."
"Exactly. I'm attracted to you, Merlynn. And your virtue will be Mordred's. At least that's what you told Gwen. And I would have to wait at least four years to have any type of physical relationship with you. You may be celibate, Merlynn, but I'm not."
"Oh, if that's all. I wasn't expecting you to wait for me for that. I know in this society people have lots of sexual partners." There, problem solved. He can have all the sex he wants and still love her.
"Merlynn, I know you don't understand this, but to me that's cheating. It would be cheating on you and whomever partner I choose. I just... can't."
"Of course not. If that's how you feel, I would never ask you to be unfaithful. If you were, you wouldn't be you." She sighs. "I guess that's it then, huh?"
"Not quite. I need for us to be only professional for a while. Not forever, but I just need some time without all the mixed signals." Merlynn's bemused. "I know you don't know any better. I don't blame you, but in this society, how you treat me, it can be misconstrued as flirting. I think it's best if we back off for a little while, so my mind and heart can wrap around the platonic... ness of our relationship."
Merlynn can't help the wetness forming beneath her eyelids. She actually magics it away. He doesn't even want to be friends? Even for a short while, is like a knife to her heart. But if that's what he wants, well then, she would do anything for her King. That is except marry him. "All right then." But something occurs to her. "Wrap your heart...? You do have feelings for me, don't you?"
Arthur stares at her for a moment, but resigns himself to speak the truth. "Yes, Merlynn, I do."
And that's when she understands. She hurt him. She hurt him, badly. Her King, the man she lives and breathes for. "Oh Arthur." Now she is letting the tears fall. This hurts so much worse than rejection. "Goddess, I am so sorry, Arthur. I will back off. I promise." Starting now. She rises to her feet and shoulders back, "Well, if that will be all, Your Highness, I will take my leave." He doesn't utter a word, just a tight nod. At the doorway she stops and turns to her King. "Best not go to the Ambrosian handfasting. As much as everyone would love to meet you, I refuse to cause you any more pain." She doesn't wait for a response.
She's gone. She's gone and it feels like she took his heart with her. Half of his own soul just left him. What do you do with that? Oh, he knows what to do... cry... and he does... like he's never cried before.
--
The ride to the airstrip is virtually non-existent for Arthur. One minute he's sliding into the back seat of the standard Royal Guard SUV, the next he's staring at his private jet through the front windshield. He can't get the previous evening's conversation with his Goddess from its instant replay out of his mind. He knows he did the right thing, so why does it feel so wrong? Everything in him tells him she's the one, not just the one, but THE ONE. He can sense it deep in his core, almost like... magic. She didn't enchant him. He felt it the moment he saw her, and she doesn't feel it at all. Or does she? She said she has feelings for him, but not sexual attraction. He didn't even know something like that existed. Maybe he should research this asexual thing. But how would that help? He's still not, and she's with Mordred. Those are huge deal breakers for him. He knows himself. He can't share. But can there even be a deal breaker with your soulmate? And about that, does he really want a queen that's forced to be with him for destiny, especially when she's in love with someone else?
"Sire, we're here." The Royal Guard exits their vehicle first, as standard protocol, then aids the prince.
"Thank you, Geraint. Who all is with us?" he asks while ascending the stairs to his private jet.
"The rest of your security detail are Bohrs, Hector, and Kay. Your pilot is Ewan Adams. You normally prefer to not have an attendant for short flights, but if you wish, I can arrange for someone to be here quickly."
"No, that's not necessary." Bohrs and Hector are already inside. He can see Bohrs is still on edge around him. Good. Means he understood Arthur meant business. Kay's in step behind him, so everyone is inside and the last Guard drops the door.
"Your Highness." The pilot approaches him and customarily bows.
"No need for formalities, Ewan, we go way back. How're you doing?" He grabs his wrist and pulls him in for a brotherly hug.
"Oh, can't complain. I get to cart your arse around, eh?" He nudges him risibly.
"Didn't realize that was such a privilege. Have you finally settled down, or are you still the hound we all know and love?"
"Now, why would I deny the fairer sex this." He gestures himself.
"You know Gwaine said the same thing to me a couple years ago, and even he's found someone."
"Really? Man, out of all of us I thought he'd be the last to get hooked. Well, good for him, but I'm not there yet. To be honest I don't know if I ever will be. You know what happened to my parents? Not interested in a sequel."
Arthur edges closer to his old friend for a private word. "Listen mate, take it from me; you don't need to follow in the footsteps of your parents. As far as I'm concerned, Uther Pendragon is the perfect example of what not to do."
"Never thought I'd hear anything like that from Arthur Pendragon who lived and breathed for daddy's approval."
"Let's just say I've been enlightened to the error of my ways."
Ewan pats his shoulder. "Good for you, mate. I think we all were hoping for 'enlightenment' or at least rebellion." The pilot scans the fuselage and sees the door shut and the other passengers buckled in. "Listen I would love to catch up, but now isn't the time. If you want to make your appointments we really need to get going."
Arthur also surveys the space and confirms all of his Guard is present and already seated. "Yes, for sure. The flight's normally about an hour and a half, correct?"
"Yep, unless, we have bad weather, and the forecast is clear skies. You should make everything if we leave now."
"Perfect. Well, I think I'm gonna get some shut-eye." Arthur settles into the fine leather. "Up early and all that."
"I hear ya, mate." The pilot then retreats to the cockpit.
The prince is soon dozing to the purr of the engine.
Until he isn't. A violent jolt awakens Arthur from his slumber. "What the hell?" It's then he notices everyone looking out the portholes. "What's going on?" It isn't chaos. It isn't screaming and bedlam. No it's worse. Silence.
"It's the engine. It's stopped."
Someone, Arthur doesn't know who, pronounces the obvious, the whirring hum stifled and hushed. They currently maintain a steady glide. Ewan isn't panicking... yet. As a precaution Geraint searches for parachutes, but discovers only a single one in the closet they are normally stored. After moments, minutes, hours, Arthur doesn't know, no amount of procedures or protocols have resolved the issue, and no other solution presents itself.
"Sire? Your Highness? I'm sorry, sir, but you have to go."
Arthur observes his security, stoic and resolute, already accepting their sacrifice. Then there's the pilot. An old friend from his Eaton days, panic written all over his face, but still trying to maintain a semblance of pride in the end. He looks at all these men, good men, men who don't deserve to die, but willing to give the lone life saver to their prince and future king. "I'm not going anywhere, not without you, and we're not going to die." Arthur doesn't waste time contemplating the expressions each of the other passengers wear, but grabs the stone that rests against his chest. "Emrys, Emrys, Emrys."
--
Merlynn has her laptop and backpack. As long as she has everything in it she needs, she's ready, and if she stops to quadruple check, then she'd seriously start to wonder if she was OCD. The time says eleven fifteen. She can make it. Soon she belts out the door and is streaking across the campus. The presentation and lecture that accompany her report should suffice for a decent quarter's final grade, the report Arthur was instrumental in helping her write.
Arthur. Arthur, who doesn't want to pursue anything with her. Arthur, who wants to keep their interactions formal for now, but eventually friends again. She's sad, of course she is, but she understands that he wants a woman all for himself, and she comes with Mordred. That's baggage he is not willing to accept. She can understand that, but it doesn't mean it doesn't hurt. Mordred consoled her after she came home and lifted her spirits with another original composition. If she hadn't been gazing into his eyes, she would have sworn he was using magic. His voice is enchanting, a power to brighten the darkest of moods, and last night was no exception.
She thinks it's appropriate that she's wearing the same ensemble she wore when she came to Camelot. She doesn't need to make any alterations. The hemlines are appropriate, and it is nothing worse than what she's seen other girls wearing around campus. But she arrived in the new town, new society, new world, and all she had were these clothes and a suitcase; her fiance, family, and friends left behind in her comfort zone. This outfit represents a crossing over, a blend of the old and new, and wearing it is like a reboot, a reset to the original settings, where only Mordred filled her heart, and she was happy. And she'll be happy again, friends with her King and lover to her betrothed. Yes, she can be happy with that. And she will be.
When Merlynn arrives at the lecture hall she greets her professor and finds a seat towards the back. Two class acquaintances have saved her a seat.
"Well hello. So, are you ready? Everyone's dying to see what the prophesied Emrys has for us."
"It's not going to be all that spectacular, Keira. I just hope it scores well. Arthur helped me with the report part of it. If I can pull off at least a satisfactory demonstration and speech, I should be set for the semester."
"Oooh, Arrrthuur. And how did the crown prince help, Merrrlynn?"
"Leave her alone, Rachel."
"Thank you."
"Besides, what Arthur Pendragon and Merlynn get up to behind closed doors is nobody's business," her pupil razzes.
"Oooh you!" Merlynn swats her. The three continue to taunt and mock each other all in good fun until the professor signals that class is starting.
Only about ten minutes in the Goddess starts to feel it, the pull, a sensation of being dragged away to a different reality. "Oh goddess."
"Merlynn, what's wr..." The two girls watch as the witch disappears.
"And now, we will have a presentation from Ms. Ambrose." The professor glances in the direction where the raven previously sat, now empty. "Where'd she go?"
"We're not sure, sir. She just..." She shrugs. "...vanished. Her things are still here, though."
"Well, we'll be moving on then. Perhaps she will rejoin us before class is over." And the professor resumes the lesson.
--
One moment Merlynn is sitting in a lecture hall, the next she's standing in a jet with four of her teammates, a man she doesn't know, and Arthur. And the plane seems to be descending... rapidly. It doesn't take a genius to realize what's happening. She looks out the window to the terrain, searching for an unpopulated area, noting the location in relation to the plane. She already has an idea to deal with the metal bird, but first things first. "Everyone grab hold." They all seem to be frozen. Did she stop time? Goddess, why didn't she think of that!? But the plane is still plummeting, so it isn't that. Oh, this is one of those shock at her abilities things. Rolling her eyes in annoyance, she utilizes her flash of insight and basically deactivates the clock. When she touches each of them it magics them mobile, and they wobble unbalanced in their equilibrium. "Everyone all right?"
"What the hell is happening, and how are we no longer falling... or flying?!" The pilot thinks he's going to have an aneurysm.
"Time is on pause right now. So while I'm holding it can you all please grab on?" They comply but are speechless except for Ewan who's mumbling to himself. "I apologize for any nausea," and her eyes flare gold.
"What nau...?"
Next think they know they are standing under a blanket of foliage in the middle of a forest.
Merlynn releases all of them and turns her gaze to the canopy.
"Wait, what are you doing?!"
"Me?" Arthur nods. "I'm getting the plane." She returns her view overhead, and golden beams shine from her eyes. The massive branches tremble and shift as she splits the greens, giving her full visibility of the blue. "Now, where are you?" Merlynn asks under her breath. She listens and hears the rumble, the sound of a large vessel cutting through the air at terminal velocity. And it's almost in sight. "Gotcha." She raises her hands to the heavens and tendrils of magic whip from her fingers, lassoing the once potential missle, now rendered inert. Her eyes are pure orbs of light as the witch hauls the metal craft in, cloaked in gold and miniaturizing it simultaneously. By the time it reaches her the jet's roughly half a meter and floats gently into her arms. With one arm wrapped around it, the Goddess uses her other hand to return the trees to their original position, apologizing for the temporary disturbance.
Spinning to face her King, the witch hands him his plane. "I will enlarge it later. Text me where, but I can't now. I have class and I'm giving a presentation that's a large portion of my quarter grade." Merlynn sees the rest of the men in her periphery. "Come on everyone! I'm not leaving you in the middle of a forest." They all grab ahold of her once again, and within seconds the group is standing in the reception area of Guard Headquarters. She glances at the clock. "Goddess, I really have to go! Sorry, text me the address!" the raven repeats as she fades away.
Merlynn materializes back inside the lecture hall. "Sorry professor. Emergency, I swear. Am I too late?"
--
"...Emrys." Next thing he knows Merlynn is before them, beautiful as ever. Only she could make him forget he's currently plummeting to his death, even for a moment. Priorities Pendragon! He grasps her arm as ordered, and suddenly he's standing in a forest.
She's twisting away from them. No! Where is she going? "Wait, what are you doing?!"
"Me?" Yes, who else?! He nods. "I'm getting the plane."
Well of course, Arthur, she's getting the plane. How silly of you to... What!? Then he watches in disbelief as his soulmate, no, his Goddess performs some of the most remarkable, magic... well, it's probably tied with the benefit... but holy fuck, it is still a sight to see. The rest of his party seems to be just as awed. They gawk as the witch commands the trees to part with something that looks semi similar to a swimmer's breast stroke. They follow her guidance like obedient soldiers and clear a path to the sky. Once visible, the jet abruptly stops. In mid-air! And Merlynn starts pulling it towards her like a fisherman reeling in a catch. Arthur is beginning to think she's losing her mind. I mean... uh sweetheart, wouldn't bringing the giant iron bullet down on top of them sort of defeat the whole purpose of saving their life? But then he notices... when objects come closer they normally appear to be growing larger, but his 'object' seems to be getting... smaller? What the? Next thing he knows he's holding his plane. His plane! His personal jet is in his hands! Arthur feels sick and realizes the setting has changed again. Fortunately his property came with and still lays in his arms, its shrunken self. The witch says she'll re-enlarge it, but she has... class? Like this has been a run-of-the-mill inconvenient interruption to her day. Like she didn't just save six men from a terrifying, firey death. Like she didn't shrink his transportation down to inventory from Hobby Lobby!
"Arthur? Arthur, what are you doing here? Shouldn't you be on your way to Switzerland?" Leon spots his prince at the entrance to his building, wooden and staring at nothing. All of the men, including four of his Guard, seem to be in a similar state, like they're in a haze or somewhere not there. And for whatever reason, Arthur is clutching a model airplane? "Galahad! Owaine!" His team is close, down the corridor. Soon they are running up to them, confused as to why the prince and their teammates are there and the condition they're in. "Help me get them to the conference room and bring them some tea."
Once everyone is situated around the table sipping their beverage Kay begins to talk and explain all the events of the morning. Soon everyone is joining in. Well, everyone except Arthur.
Arthur can't stop thinking about Merlynn, his guardian angel. How every time he sees her he can't form a cohesive thought except about her.
"Arthur?" His eyes still vacant. "Arthur?" Leon has an idea of what's going through his head and he wishes he could help, but there's no cure for his 'ailment'.
His name finally registers. "What? Hmm?"
"Is that really your jet?"
Arthur is shaken out of his stupor by the direct question. "Uh... yes, yes it is. I'm supposed to... uh... text Merlynn the address to... to the... uh... airstrip." God, he can't even talk! He clears his throat hopefully recalibrating his brain. "Ahem... She'll bring it back to standard size when she's finished with class."
"Bodyguard, eh? Well, she can guard my body anytime she wants. Hands down, easily one of the hottest birds I've ever seen."
Ewan is practically drooling. It's a good thing he was in shock earlier, or he would have been electrocuted in transport. Though now Leon's concerned for his lifespan with Arthur.
"Think I can get her number?"
Oooh, not the thing to say, mate.
"You are not to go near her, you hear me!?"
"Woah, Fuck! Yeah, I get it. I didn't know she was yours, mate. All you had to do was say so."
"She's not mine. She's engaged and decidedly not mine."
"Ah, I get it now. Not yours but wish she were, huh? Yeah, that's bullocks mate, really. Nothing worse than hopeless crushes."
"It's not a crush!" She's his soulmate. His soulmate who's with someone else. Why is she with someone else!? She is his! No, she's not Arthur. Aargh! He has to stop this! MERLYNN IS MY BODYGUARD AND PLATONIC FRIEND. MERLYNN IS MY BODYGUARD AND PLATONIC FRIEND. His old friend grips his shoulder in sympathy and leaves the room. Soon everyone is gone. He doesn't know when they left. He doesn't know how long he's been there. He only knows he's alone.
Bzz... bzz... bzz...
He feels it before he hears it. He retrieves his phone from of his pocket. Sure enough there's a text from the woman herself. 'Address?' Short and to the point. Well, he wanted professional, he got it. He types in the address and hits 'send.' So, that's what they've been reduced to. His soulmate, his destiny. His fated love of fifteen hundred years. Curt little meaningless words that show no feeling, no emotion, no heart. Because he can't show his heart, can he? His heart will have to be locked away in a vault somewhere never to return. That's the only way he can bear it. No heart. Get it through your head, Pendragon. She will never be yours! MERLYNN IS MY BODYGUARD AND PLATONIC FRIEND. MERLYNN IS MY BODYGUARD AND PLATONIC FRIEND.
MERLYNN IS MY BODYGUARD AND PLATONIC. FUCKING. FRIEND.
