Arthur finally has his smile, but how long will it last? The plot thickens against Merlynn, and she sees a side of her King and magic she never expected.

Heed my warnings, people.


Nimueh sets a cup of tea in front of each high priestess before settling herself into her own seat.

"I gave him the third dose. I know I was supposed to skip and go to the fourth, but I did it more for the group than for him. I was going to stop all together. You should have seen him yesterday in Ambrosia. It was awful." Morgana frowns, recalling her brother's despair. "But then something changed. Mordred convinced him to do the open relationship. Apparently he's hardly ever going to be around, so she'd be with Arthur the majority of the time. He also said that Merlynn can still be his queen, because the UK doesn't recognize an Old Religion handfasting. In effect, she'd have two husbands. That did it for him. As he said, he has back his smile."

"Okaay. What does this have to do with you giving him the third dose instead of the fourth?" Nimueh thought they were going to have a little elbow room and not be on such a tight schedule. But Morgana's decision makes things riskier.

"You should have seen her in Ambrosia. I explained to you both about the honor system with their clan?" The two witches nod. "We've been able to convince her to tone it down here, but there was another story. Merlynn tried to persuade Arthur not to come, but I knew we needed it to provoke him, so I persuaded him to attend. When we got there, though, it was way more than we expected. Merlynn did warn us that weddings were worse, and she was right. She wore this practically completely see through jumper, which only just covered... well, you know. But then Mordred and her planned a surprise where they did all these different dances. There were lots of skimpy outfits, but the dancing itself was VERY sexual. To top that off, after both of them put on a pretty intimate magic display, they kissed. Right there on the dance floor, in front of everyone, and not some chaste kiss either. They actually had to be physically pulled apart, because their magic created their own little world or something."

Nimueh is irritated. The princess has yet to explain anything. "I still don't understand why you chose the third dose, which is weaker than last week's, by the by, instead of the fourth, like we agreed."

"What I'm saying is that, with him now deciding that he's going to do the open relationship, Arthur has what he wants. If he went from happy to all stalkery people would be suspicious, but this week no one would question him having sex on the mind incessantly. After yesterday, I think everyone might be thinking about sex more. Anyway, he believes he has everything he wants right now. But after the upcoming days, he'll realize that the promise of his heart's desire in two years isn't enough. He'll know he won't last. But he has to have the time to discern that for himself. Understand now?"

Both women consider everything Morgana's said. If Arthur started trying to force himself on her this week, it would seem off. People may start wondering if there is more going on than just attraction.

"I agree with Morgana. I believe she made the best decision for our plans to proceed without speculation. Think about it. Arthur is going to recognize his weakness on his own. It won't look peculiar at all that he wants sex with the woman he wants instead of some random casual fling." Morgause thinks this actually works in their favor.

"What happened with the four years. Why is it now two?"

"Now that's interesting. Seemingly, their clan elders believe the Triple Goddess is blessing Merlynn's relationship with Mordred, because she literally advanced his age. They ran tests to determine the precise number. He is exactly twenty years old, which coincidentally happens to also be Merlynn's age."

That is compelling. Could it be that the Triple Goddess gave her the plan? Is the deity working through her? If a fourteen year old was magically aged, then that would be divine intervention.

"There's something else." Both high priestesses look to the third, urging her to continue. "At the handfasting, there was a ritual they performed that might help. After they tied their wrists a spell was spoken over them. It meant they couldn't sleep with anyone else... for life," she clarifies.

Nimueh's eyes widen in remembrance. The witch ascends to her feet and walks facing away from them, confusing the two sisters. Then she spins towards them with a Cheshire cat grin. "The aefre annes! I can't believe I forgot. It's perfect! If Arthur rapes her and uses that, then he will not only be stealing her virtue, she'll lose Mordred as well. It will be doubly devastating!"

Morgana and Morgause both are disgusted by Nimueh's excitement. "You don't have to be so happy, Nimueh. We are talking about hurting someone... badly, and taking the love of her life from her. I know we need this, but to be so happy about it..." The princess is frankly repulsed by the brunette's reaction.

Morgause agrees, but she feels she has to mediate between the two. "Sister, it sickens me as well to hurt Emrys, but remember, the faster this happens, the faster all the suffering is over. I would rather have her gone faster, so she can live happily with her King in another time, then prolong her pain." The blonde holds Morgana's hand in comfort and softly smiles. Morgana returns the gesture with a tight nod.

"Good. Now that's settled. Morgana, you will give Arthur a scarf that we've spelled with the 'aefre annes'. Use your discretion as to when."

The royal looks between the two other women and sighs. "Fine." She rises to leave. "Tomorrow is Arthur's game and I believe Merlynn is on Guard duty. He's going to tell her then."

"Morgana?" Morgause can't leave things with so much tension. Her sister faces her at the sound of her name. "You did the right thing."

Morgana's not so sure, but she bows anyway and teleports home. She had to get out of there. Nimueh's behavior shook her. She sounded like the classic villain, which makes the princess question everything. She doesn't want to be the bad guy, not anymore. She's only doing this because she thought it was the right thing to do, and she almost feels like when she talks to Arthur he's giving her permission. If she thought for a moment it was wrong, she would stop, wouldn't she? She is not the same Morgana from all those centuries ago. She's not!

"She's wavering."

Morgause looks at the brunette, then turns away. "She'll be fine." Won't she?

--

Merlynn has never been to a game before. She doesn't remember much from the one viewing of a footie match in Ambrosia. As soon as she arrives at the stadium and relieves her fellow Guard, she scans the crowd. An estimated quarter of it are magic users. Some fairly powerful, but no one has any bad intentions against her King. There's some animosity, but it's from the competition of the game and nothing malicious.

Merlynn spots Percy, Lance, Elyan, and Arthur entering the field. They notice her positioned a few meters from the stands and wave. She reciprocates the action but motions for them to focus on their own jobs. Arthur gives her a soft smile, which she returns, but indicates the same to him. The witch doesn't want to be a distraction during their competition.

She sees the rest of her friends scrunched together on the benches, trying to block the chill of the night air. It appears everyone made it except Mithian. Likely working late.

Merlynn notices that while all the spectators are situating themselves to watch the game, a child is teetering on the fringe of the upper bleachers. As predicted, it was barely a nudge and the boy pitches over the side. The mother let's out an ear piercing screech at the sight of her toddler stumbling over the edge. Merlynn's eyes flare and with an outstretched hand she magically boosts the child back to the stands and directly into his mother's arms. The witch is unaware that the scream drew attention to the commotion, and the crowd and players are all staring in awe. The mother, now holding her son, is searching around for her savior and sees Merlynn, her eyes returning to their mystical blue. She mouths 'thank you' to the raven, who simply nods in response.

Merlynn returns her gaze back to the field and is surprised when people are gaping at her.

"Way to go, Merlynn! Go magic!" Gwaine screams.

That starts a domino effect of praise and cheers. Cheers for magic. Even the players are joining in. The Goddess doesn't like the attention, but she can take one for the team if it means helping to change public opinion of magic.

She sheepishly bows, then gestures for the game to start. After all, that's what they're there for.

--

"So Arthur, is that your hot little guardian?"

Arthur immediately sees red and is soon face to face with his teammate. No one talks about his Goddess that way. "Shut the fuck up, Valiant! And stay away from her!" His teammate will rue the day if he goes near her.

Percival spots the confrontation and moves to stand between his friend and the other player, trying to pacify the prince. "Woah, mate, calm down. Remember, Merlynn can take care of herself."

Elyan darts up to the cluster of teammates to help quell his friend's anger. "Yeah, bruv, if he touches her, literal sparks will fly." He tries to make a joke, but Arthur isn't having it.

"Well, I don't want him touching her at all!"

"Arthur, mate, relax. Valiant's not going to do anything. Come on, let's get back to the game, yeah." Lancelot gently leads their friend back to the bench.

The rest of the group follows to ensure Arthur's temper is alleviated. They know he battles jealousy and possessiveness, and especially after the reception, he's already struggling. Merlynn is undoubtedly a trigger for their prince. Everyone has noticed how high strung Arthur has been lately. Saturday in Ambrosia was quite discomfitting for the royal, and they all want to help anyway they can.

Percival thinks he might know a way. "I have an idea. Fancy the six of us going to my family's cabin for a few days? It will be nice to escape for awhile, and be just us blokes, yeah?"

"I can't. I've got prince shit to do, but don't let me stop you."

"Well, I'm game. I just finished all the studying I have to do for exams. I can afford to take some time off." Elyan has been needing a breather from classes and Perce's cabin sounds perfect.

"Sick. What about you, Lance?"

"It does sound brilliant, actually. Let me see what I can do." He wants to spend time with Gwen, but the guys haven't hung out in a while, and maybe if they all can go, then Arthur will change his mind. The man needs some time away. Maybe they can help him get Merlynn off his mind. Maybe. Yeah right, Lance, as much as you can get Gwen off yours. They can try, though.

"Ace! Wouldn't be the same without you. We can talk to Gwaine and Leon after the game. You know the duke is always ready to holiday. Leon will be the wild card, but if we can convince his highness, you know Leon will be a shoo in, if nothing just to be his Guard." Percival thinks he just might get all six. Perhaps this is all the prince needs.

--

A couple hours later Merlynn finds herself sloped against the wall in the corridor tunnel by the locker room, awaiting her King.

"Well hello."

The bang of a shut door reveals a smarmy bloke she recognizes as one of the players, specifically the one that she recalled Arthur having a spat with on the pitch. Like the rest of the team he's fit, but she doesn't find him attractive at all. It could be the vibe she's feeling. He plainly has ill intentions, and she anticipates serious sparks if he comes closer. Doesn't mean she needs to be impolite. "Hello."

"Valiant. I play forward. You might have seen me out there. I sure saw you."

The lech eyes her lasciviously, and she holds back a cringe.

"Maybe you've heard of me?"

"Can't say I have, no."

He shrugs. "No matter. Maybe when you're not working sometime we could get to know each other."

He advances closer, and she almost feels sorry for him. Almost.

"Leave her alone, Val. Go home."

Her gentle giant has appeared on the scene.

"Ooh, sorry Perce. Didn't realize you wanted a piece."

Merlynn is confused by the phrase. Piece? Piece of what?

"It's not like that. She's my friend and engaged. Now go. I'm saving you, mate. If I were Arthur you wouldn't walk out of here without some souvenirs, of the black and blue variety. Now bugger off before he sees you."

Valiant spots the ring on Merlynn's left hand. "Shame. Does the crowny know? He seems to think she's his." He faces her once again and sighs in disappointment. "We could have had some fun, sweet thing, but I think you might have your hands full with the royal." The player tosses his duffle bag over his shoulder, and struts out of sight down the breezeway.

"Sorry about that. He's a bit of a tosser."

"No worries. I am a Goddess and can take care of myself. He seems to think Arthur has other ideas, however."

"Yeah, Arthur can be a bit protective of people he cares about. Borderline obsessive. Goddess or no."

"That's not surprising. Its in his nature. I just don't want him to stress over me."

The giant scratches the back of his head. "Yeah, I don't think that one can be helped. Like you said, it's just who he is. He would walk through fire for any of us."

Merlynn chuckles under her breath and smiles fondly. "Very true. He wouldn't be Arthur if he were any different." The witch glances to the still closed door. "Do you know if the man in question is almost finished?"

"He'll be here soon. He normally prefers to come out last, waiting for the crowds to die down. Otherwise he gets swarmed."

"I understand that. Elyan and Lance already left with Gwen if you want to catch up."

"Yeah, I was planning on it. Are you and Arthur coming? We're all going to the Rising Sun."

"I don't know. I'm his until he goes back to Kensington, so if he wants to I guess we'll be there."

"Hey." Arthur has finally arrived. He sees the pale, raven beauty that he's been chuffed to speak with ever since he made his decision.

"Hi."

Percival looks between his friends and feels like he's intruding. "Well, I think I'll meet everyone over there. See you guys later."

"Bye Perce."

"Later mate."

The gentle giant strides away.

"Well, Your Highness, what were you wanting to do the rest of the evening? If you want to go to the pub, we could do that. Or I can take you home. Or..."

"I was actually wanting to talk to you." Desperately wanting to talk to you. Actually more than that, but he'll have to settle with only talking for now.

"Oh. Okay. What about?" She's shuffling her feet and biting her lip, suddenly nervous.

"Did Mordred tell you he talked to me?"

"He did." Her warlock had said that Arthur seemed more amiable than before, but she wouldn't dare hope.

God, she's so adorable standing there so afraid of rejection. "Well, I thought about it, and I think I want to try."

Did he...? Is he...? "Are you saying what I think you're saying?"

"If you're thinking I want to try a relationship with you, then yes. That's what I'm saying."

Merlynn's face lights up. "Really?"

His smile now matches hers and he steps closer. "You're my soulmate, Merlynn. How could I not try?"

The most brilliant, radiant smile stretches across her face. "Really? Because I'm not trying to push, you know. I just would like... Well, I have feelings for you, but I don't..." She's floundering, but can't help it. She's wanted this and has felt drawn to him ever since Morgana's. Next thing she knows his lips are on hers.

Fuck, he's desired her for so long. She's perfect, absolutely perfect. And she's his. He deepens the kiss and pulls her into him.

Merlynn is stunned at first that he would kiss her, but she overcomes the shock quickly and is soon equalling his fervor, but something seems off, and she's blind to what. The kiss alone is good, but there's something wrong behind it.

God, he loves her taste; he loves her feel; he loves her body against his. He's never been so turned on or attracted to someone in his life. He needs more.

The kiss is getting aggressive. No more than her attack on Mordred the other night, but this... this doesn't feel right. She tries to twist from his grip, but he keeps forcing her forward until her back is butted against the concrete. She knows they're isolated. Arthur was the last to exit as Percival informed the raven. There will be no outside intervention.

He wants her. He wants her more than he's wanted anything. He needs her like he needs air, like he needs food... and he's hungry.

Merlynn is still trying to shove him away when she feels his touch. One hand is sliding down her back and cupping her backside, and the other was on her thigh but is now slinking between her... legs? She has to stop this! "Arthur!" With a rush of strength she's finally able to force him off of her.

"Merlynn, I..." What the fuck did he just do?!

Merlynn is trying to catch her breath, both from need to breathe again and from realizing Arthur almost violated her. "Arthur, I want a relationship with you, but for... that... you're going to have to go elsewhere. I don't expect you to wait for me for two years. I know in your culture, sex is a regular occurrence between multiple partners. I have no qualms with you having relations with whomever you wish. I don't even have issues if you wanted romance with another woman. You can do what you wish to satisfy your needs, and I will still cuddle up next to you and watch a movie, should you so choose. But that's all, Arthur. I don't do sex. That you will have to find somewhere else." She really isn't upset with him. This is a cultural clash that he needs to indulge in before he sees her again. "Look, why don't you go out this week and have sex and get that out of your system for awhile. Then maybe we can get together on Friday or Saturday. We can watch the metal man, yeah? Would you want to?"

Arthur doesn't understand what's happening, but he believes this is the point where he agrees, so he does.

"Good. I think I'll take you home now. This has been a bit eventful for the both of us."

Before he can protest, Merlynn has already snagged his wrist and waved her hand. No longer in the night air, they soon both stand in the center of his stuffy bedroom that suddenly seems quite stifling in more ways than one.

"Okay, I'm going to leave. Do what you need to do this week and we can get together this weekend, okay?" He nods. She gives him a chaste kiss on the cheek. "Have a nice night, my King." And she disappears.

Arthur collapses onto his bed. What the hell just happened?! You know what happened, Arthur. You attacked and groped your girlfriend, who in turn gave you permission to go and fuck around. He falls backwards until he is staring at the ceiling of the canopy. "Fuck!" He draws his phone from his pocket and dials.

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

"Hey mate."

"Perce? I'm in."

--

Once Merlynn teleports back to her own room she grabs her night clothes and dressing gown and proceeds to take a shower. She's disturbed by the events of the evening. She had been excited when Arthur said he wanted to pursue a romance with her, but he went too far. She forgives him. She knows that's how things progress in this society. It just was... uncomfortable.

Merlynn is in the kitchen brewing tea when her roommates trudge in after an evening of socializing and drinking.

"You guys decided not to join us at the pub?" Elena asks.

Merlynn just wags her head in thought.

"Merlynn?"

The raven glances up to the inquiring eyes of her brunette roommate. "Hmm?"

"What's wrong? You seem... out of sorts."

The witch is sipping her tea while perched on a stool next to the peninsula, lost in her own mind. "Arthur told me tonight he wants a relationship with me, and then he kissed me."

Elena is instantly sidling up next to her. "He kissed you?" At first she's delighted for her friend, but then she notices the raven doesn't seem too thrilled for herself. "It wasn't good?"

"Hmm? No, no. It was fine. I just... It didn't feel right?"

"How so?" Gwen leans over the counter across from the other two.

Merlynn thinks about how to put in to words how she's feeling. "It's like... When Mordred kisses me, I feel so loved and cherished. Like I'm the most precious being in the world to him. But with Arthur... with Arthur it didn't feel like that. It felt more territorial, like I was being claimed. He tried some things and I had to push him away." She recalls the feel of the stone against her back. "Anyway, I told him to go out and do what he needs to do, and I'd see him this weekend. Maybe everything will be better when he gets it out of his system." She's hopeful they can still have a loving relationship as long as Arthur pursues other partners for his physical intimacy needs. Merlynn rises from her seat to wash her cup, confident her solution has solved the problem. "I'm going to go on to bed. Goodnight ladies."

"Night Merls."

"Night."

Once the Goddess has retreated to her room the blonde rounds on the third roommate. "He attacked her?!"

"Shh! He didn't attack her. He got a little handsy is all."

"Handsy?! 'Territorial'... 'being claimed'... Gwen, come on. That's what we all were worried about at Morgana's. And did you hear what she said? She had to push him off!"

"He got caught up in the heat of the moment. She set him straight. Let's not vilify him yet. You have to remember she's his soulmate, and he finally got to kiss her. He probably wasn't thinking. Trust me. Merlynn can take care of herself." With that Gwen exits to her room.

Elena's not so sure.

--

"This is going to be brilliant! Perce, you said this is your family's place?" Elyan scans around and sees their accommodations are easily suitable for their needs. Perfect for a bachelor getaway.

"Yeah, my grandfather built it himself. I know it's not all luxurious, but for a blokes' retreat, I thought it would suffice. Beats sleeping on the ground, anyway."

"That it does, mate. That it does." Lance assures his childhood friend with a pat on the back.

"All right, ladies, if you all are ready then 'operation help the princess pull' can begin."

"I don't need any help pulling, Gwaine. Thank you."

"No, we know you don't. But doing it discreetly, that's what we're for. There's a club we can go to where privacy is the utmost priority. That's actually what made me think of this place. We can get a separate room for ourselves."

"If we're all holed up in a room, how am I supposed to meet someone to pull?"

"That's where we come in. We'll sort of suss them out, vett them if you will, and bring them back if we think they might be a good match," Leon says.

"Make it clear this is just a one time casual thing. I don't want anyone getting the wrong idea."

"Come on, princess, what do you take us for? We know you, mate. We won't be breaking any hearts. Trust us."

"Okay."

--

"What has you all mooney?" Merlynn had been absent for most of the evening, then comes gliding out of her room like she's floating on clouds, her expression all dreamy and dazed. A far cry from the uncertainty of her time with Arthur, Elena thinks.

"Oooh, Mordred. He took me on one of the most glorious dates. First, we flew Aithusa to a waterfall that cascades into a lake where the merfolk live. Then we had a double date for half the evening with some friends of ours, before they swam off. Then we rode a unicorn bareback to the Cliffs to continue what we started Saturday night. We spent the whole night under the stars, laid out on the shores just holding each other. Then we kissed." She sighs blissfully. "It was perfect."

"You had a double date with mermaids?" The girls are a tad jealous. They used to think Merlynn was the one missing out on life. They're beginning to think it's the other way around.

"Well, a mermaid and merman."

Oh, just a mermaid and merman. Like that's a run-of-the-mill date for everyone. "Wow, that does sound lovely." Gwen wonders if Lance and her could ever hope of having such an experience.

"Did you tell him about Arthur?"

The witch's countenance immediately drops and starts shuffling her feet side to side, crossing her arms and setting her chin against her chest. "Uh, no. No I didn't. I didn't think it was necessary. He's one of the biggest supporters between Arthur and I, and I still want to see how Saturday goes. That's when we're supposed to have a movie night."

Gwen doesn't like that they brought Merlynn's mood down. She knows exactly what topic will transform her roommate's frown. "Well, anyway, tell us about these Cliffs." As the brunette predicted, Merlynn immediately brightens at the subject of her evening with her betrothed.

--

Arthur is bored. His mates have already brought him several prospects, but they were so enamored with the royalty, it really turned him off.

Gwaine is approaching with a possibility. "This is Lilith. She's a student at Cambridge. She is just looking for a good time and no strings, right Lilith?"

This one has promise. She actually looks similar to Merlynn with jet black hair and pale skin. She's shorter, but his witch is kind of tall for a woman. This one actually might be what he's looking for, especially if she's after just a casual night.

"Absolutely, no complications. Just some fun. Would you be interested in that, Your Highness?"

Straight and to the point. He could work with this. "You know, I think I would."

"Good. They have a place here we can go with no chance of photos, and no one will catch us leaving together."

Interesting. Is it just him, or does she seem just as worried about exposure? "Oh... yeah. That sounds good." She leads him down a corridor around a corner. There are several doors lined up along the walls, presumably each a room for 'recreational activities'.

"In here." She opens a door absent a sign and tilts her head to the inside. The prince strolls in past her before she adds their own sign, indicating occupation.

"You aren't a student at Cambridge, are you?" Might as well lay the truth out there.

She sighs in defeat. "What gave me away?"

"You seem just as concerned about discovery as I do."

She slouches next to him on the edge of the bed. "That obvious, huh?"

He makes a gesture signing 'little bit.' She nods surrendering to being caught.

"So who are you?"

"I'm an actress."

"Ah, American."

"Hey, I thought I did a 'brilliant' British."

Arthur chuckles at her mocking indignance. "No, it was fine. It was fine. So what kind of acting do you do? And why are you here?"

"Movies. And I imagine the same reason you are."

"Really, you're trying to satisfy sexual urges, so you can date your virgin girlfriend without pouncing on her, too?"

This takes her aback. One, at the blatant honesty and two, the divulgance of that honesty to a complete stranger. "Okay, maybe not the same reason. You're cheating on your girlfriend? I wasn't even aware the crown prince had a girlfriend."

He shrugs. "It's sort of new, and no, I'm not cheating. She was the one that told me to do this."

"Your girlfriend told you to go out and fuck someone?" She asks dubiously. That is one she's never heard, and she's from LA.

"She's uh... she's asexual... kind of. She thinks that if I sleep around then I'll have it out of my system enough when I'm with her."

"Ah, I see. And it doesn't work like that, does it? You could fuck me under the table and you'd still want her?"

He thinks about it and admits to her at the same time to himself, "I honestly don't know if I could."

"Huh?"

"I don't know if I could fuck you under the table. I mean I know I could capability wise, but it just doesn't feel right."

"I guess then, the question you have to ask yourself is if you can give up sex... for her."

Can he?

--

Knock. Knock. Knock.

Arthur has been eager for his date with Merlynn, even though he was unable to do as she asked. He knows she wouldn't see him if she knew, so he's keeping that information to himself. He made sure to excessively wank to get it out of his system, but even to himself, he's secretly not confident he accomplished his goal. The prince is hoping good old mind over matter will triumph.

"Arthur! Hi, come on in. I had Elena set the movie up for us already. The girls are both gone for the night, so it's just us. I hope you don't mind." She wasn't sure if he would need that friendship around to keep things from bumbling. Something already feels a little off. There isn't the same sensation from Arthur that she has with Mordred. Her date Tuesday night with her betrothed was magical, in the literal sense and that it was flawless. She has to remember, though, tonight is about Arthur. Mordred told her to keep an open mind, and any unease is likely because things were so new. Merlynn does feel drawn to him, but she's beginning to wonder if that is her magic and not so much her. Regardless, she's going to give it a chance like Mordred said.

Her quirky roommate, however, was acting a bit odd about the whole thing. If she didn't know any better, the witch would say she's not real chuffed about the King and Goddess' romance. She told Merlynn to call if she needs her, no matter what. Why would she need her? Weird. Gwen was encouraging, though. And Morgana texted her earlier to verify everything was still on with her brother. Why wouldn't it be?

Does she seriously think he would mind? He'd mind if they weren't. God, she's wearing shorts and a t-shirt, normal and nothing over the top. Yet, he's still restraining himself. "No, that's fine. I brought some sparkling grape juice. I know you don't drink."

"Oh, thank you. That was sweet." She accepts the bottle and unwittingly brushes his hand. He shudders. "Oh goddess, I didn't shock you, did I? Not the spelled shocks, but the static kind?"

"Uh... no, I'm fine." She really has no idea.

"Good." She takes the bottle to the kitchen to chill. "What would you like to eat tonight?!"

You. "Anything is fine!"

After a moment Merlynn ambles into the living room empty handed. "All right. I thought I would just order pizza so we can get the movie started."

Arthur responds by lodging into the corner of the couch, while Merlynn places the order and plays the movie.

"Do you want me to stay down here?" She indicates the other end of the settee. "Or I can cuddle up next to you... if you want." Why does this feel so awkward? With Mordred everything flows naturally.

"Merlynn, I would love to hold you." Is she kidding? This woman makes naive itself look naive.

Merlynn nestles into him and he wraps her in his arms. It's nice. She loves being held. It's affectionate. Now this is how Mordred treats her. Maybe the night won't be so bad. The raven relaxes in his embrace and engrosses herself in the movie.

The sweet scent of strawberry shampoo wafts in the air, and the soft texture of her hair slides between his fingers of downy plush curls. Unbeknownst to his witch her breasts are resting directly over his arm. Arthur's not complaining and he's certainly not going to inform her of the oversight.

Knock. Knock. Knock.

"That's the food." She hauls herself off the couch via Arthur's thigh. He gasps, but fortunately, she doesn't notice.

She answers the door with her trademark friendly smile that is frequently misunderstood as flirtation. "Hello."

"Well hello there. You alone tonight, sweetheart?" His gaze crawls over her form.

Arthur ruffles at the lewd address to his soulmate, the virginal angel oblivious to the undertone of the lech. He vaults over the back of the couch to save her.

"Oh no. I have company... Oomph."

In his rush to play knight, he incidentally shoves into her. He eyes her apologetically, but turns his attention to the man now blanching in the doorway at the sight of the prince. "Yes, she's not alone. What do we owe you?"

"Your Highness. I apologize. Uh..." The man's tongue is caught in his throat, so he just passes him the bill.

Arthur gives the guy cash. "Keep the change." The royal snatches the pizza from his hands and pulls Merlynn away from the door to shut it behind her.

Her King seems angry. Why would he be angry? And he practically yanked her arm out of socket. "Are you all right, Arthur?"

Compose yourself, Pendragon. She may be yours, but she's still learning. "Yes, I'm fine. Sorry, I just didn't realize how hungry I was." Quick thinking.

"Oh. Okay, I'll get us some plates then, shall I?" He nods.

He moves back to the couch and ensconces himself into the same corner. Soon after Merlynn returns the couple are indulging themselves with pepperoni and savoring carbonated grape. While they eat, she sits next to Arthur. She's watching the film, but the prince's vision is trapped on his Goddess. Her delight with the humorous scenes and her gasps at the more suspenseful, he loves observing all the nuances of her expressions. With her yawn, however, he sees opportunity. "You can lay on my lap if you want."

"Are you sure?" She is tired, but she doesn't want to be rude.

His soulmate is so innocent. So pure. "Of course. I want you to be comfortable, Merlynn."

"Thank you." She warmly smiles and stretches her body across the sofa cushions, pillowing her head on her King's thigh. She enjoys when his fingers brush through her hair. It's pleasant and relaxing.

Arthur can feel the body heat draped over him and her warm breath drifting over his knee. The long raven locks flow over his lap, exposing her enticing neck while he rests his other hand around her waist. Beholding his beguiling future queen rouses an idea in the blonde to progress the evening some. "You know, you seem stressed. Have you ever had a massage?"

She shakes her head, unable to recall one.

"Here, budge up, and I'll scoot to you." With what he intends he needs more space.

She straightens and stations herself squarely before her King.

"There you go. Now, brush your hair to one side for me." There's that delicious neck again, tantalizing him viciously. Control yourself, Pendragon. You can't make your move yet. He cups the raven's shoulders and starts applying pressure with his thumbs.

"Oh goddess, this is wonderful. Where have you been all my life?"

Arthur smirks to himself. Oh honey, this is only the beginning of the pleasure he's capable of. "I'm yours whenever you want me, Merlynn."

"You're so sweet." His consideration to her is endearing. This is turning out to be a lovely evening. What was she so worried about?

Now Arthur. He gently pulls her shoulders towards him and rounds her until they're face to face. He gazes into her eyes, so virtuous and unsure, then the prince leans in and claims her lips for his own. At first his witch is reluctant, but then she sinks into it. When the soft flesh parts he takes it as invitation.

The kiss is nice and tender, not like at the footie match. He seems more interested in loving Merlynn than possessing her. She accepts his entrance and feels his tongue slide along her own. Her King adjusts himself around her, no doubt seeking a better position, as the previous angle was a little uncomfortable. Their new arrangement has the raven sitting and the prince on his knees in front of her. He starts to guide her down into the cushion and lift her legs off the floor, then lays her reposed underneath him. The witch is lodged flat facing her King who hovers above her. Her hands thread through his hair still deep in his kiss.

Fuck, she's delicious! At this moment he has Merlynn... Merlynn! on her back beneath him. The surreality of it could only mean he's dreaming. The pristine Goddess, so unsuspecting, has no idea how she affects Arthur. He craves to taste the smooth skin of her neck, but he's afraid if he breaks the kiss she'll tell him to stop. Although, based on her own enthusiastic touch she appears to be enjoying herself. The asexuality thing baffles him. His soulmate seems aroused, but he knows that she's not, so he really wonders what this is for her. Arthur's on fire and knows he should stop, but he can't bring himself to. He's never desired someone so completely. The royal wants to consume her. Maybe if she had a taste of sexual pleasure it could override the suppresants. They're soulmates after all. Doesn't his body call to her as much as hers calls to him? Maybe she only needs to be shown the world of physical intimacy.

Merlynn likes Arthur shrouding her like a blanket. It feels like sheltering, shielding her from the elements. It's a foreign emotion for her considering she's Emrys, but she welcomes it. The guardian being safeguarded. The protector being protected. It makes sense with Arthur's historical background, battle warrior, self sacrificing. His gentle, velvet kiss is delicate and romantic, and the Goddess melts into the connection and intimacy of it all, until he pulls her away. Without breaking the kiss her King withdraws her hands from around him and pins her below her gauntlets at the wrists. For Merlynn, the separation rends the appeal of the moment. It's the embrace that expresses the devotion between them, so to sever it disrupts the ambience they had cultivated. The witch tries to distance herself to relay this to him but the pressure on her mouth is enough to keep their lips locked, only breathing through their nose. Then he slowly starts guiding her arms above her head until they merge together and he binds them as one under a single firm grip. Now, she was unhappy with the previous adjustment, but this one has made her apprehensive. The romance they had fostered has been sucked from the atmosphere and replaced with something ominous. Merlynn feels the compression of his free hand gliding down against her torso until reaching the bottom hem of her shirt, the sensation of him slipping under, his calloused fingers brushing her bare skin. Is he...? No, he wouldn't. But his trail isn't stopping and Arthur keeps slithering higher. She squirms and tries to escape his hold, but his strength overwhelms her. The witch attempts to use magic, but it shys away from her. Merlynn is panicking with the helplessness she feels. When he cups her breast she screams and only a surge of adrenaline liberates her of her captor, because her magic... failed her. Once free she springs from her seat and bolts to the other side of the room.

Arthur stares at the 'frightened colt' cowered in the corner, his soulmate. His other half, now shrinking from him in fear. Did he really just do that? Why would...? He knows why. He wanted to. He wanted it more than anything. The prince is not confident he would have stopped or even could have stopped without her intervention. And now she's scared of him. Him! Almighty Emrys is crouching, curled into herself away from the Once and Future King. Did he just ruin everything? "Merlynn, I'm sorry. I don't know what came over me." He knows. Of course he knows.

Merlynn can't remember the last time she was afraid, not for herself anyway. She's doubtful she ever has been, not even as a child. Her magic always protected her. So why didn't it now? She has never felt so powerless. Imagine that, a powerless Goddess, abandoned, abandoned by what she could always count on. "Arthur, I think... uh, I think this isn't going to work. I'm not... I'm not who you need me to be. I can't be who you need me to be. Not for two years, anyway. Didn't you have enough sex this week?"

"I uh... I couldn't." He can't lie to her.

"You couldn't?" What does he mean he couldn't, and why in Avalon did he show up at her door without his needs satisfied?! "You can't tell me you didn't have offers. You're the prince, for goddess sake! Women throw their knickers at you."

"No, I had offers."

"Then what was the problem."

"They weren't you."

What does she say to that? What is she supposed to do with it? "Arthur, you have to let me go. I can't do or be what you want me to. I thought we could have a romance, but if you have to have sex, specifically with me, then we won't work. I think maybe it's best if we don't see each other for awhile, other than professionally I mean. I think... I think you should go."

"Merlynn I..."

"Go Arthur." She strides to the door and opens it, gesturing for him to leave. The witch can barely stand the vicinity it takes for him to walk past her.

"I'm sorry."

The raven doesn't say anything, just a tight nod before she shuts him out of the flat. She leans against the closed door, sensing more has been closed than just a slab of wood. Merlynn slides against the grain and collapses onto the hard oak of the entryway. She pulls her knees into her chest and rests her arms across them. That's when the Goddess sees... there it is in black and white... or should she say black and blue. Bruises circling both of her wrists beneath the gauntlets where her King... her King! the man she lives and breathes for, immobilized her and molested her, and her magic was no where to be found. That's when the tears start to fall. She's never felt so disconnected from that part of herself. It must be what magic restraints feel like. The witch can't decide what's worse, her King's assault or her magic's failure. Both prompted emotions she never wants to feel again... and she won't, she vows to herself... never again.

Never say never, Merlynn.

--

"So how was your date brother of mine?" Morgana calls early Sunday morning inquiring Arthur about his previous evening.

"I don't want to talk about it." Arthur is ashamed of himself. Men forcing themselves on women, in his eyes, is the vilest of the vile, right next to pedophiles. He's shocked he's joined the sex offender club.

"Why? What happened?"

"What happened? What happened is I went too far and scared the hell out of her. That's what happened." He needs the confession, the dirty admittance of his dishonor, his disgrace to his... soulmate. God.

"What do you mean, Arthur? What'd you do?"

"I uh... I... We were snogging, right? And it was good, really good. Too good. And I had her on her back and we uh... it was going well. But I kinda... kinda, sorta... fondled her."

"Arthur!"

"I know! Believe me, I know."

"How could that even happen? Didn't she push you away?"

"Well, um... she couldn't."

"What do you mean she couldn't?"

"Her wrists might have been a little bit trapped in my uh... my fist." Fuck! It sounds so much worse outloud.

"Am I to understand you correctly that you held her down and groped her?"

Arthur feels like he might cry, because that's the truth, isn't it? He took the love of his life against her will, and if SHE hadn't ended it, he's not convinced HE would have. He didn't even think he was capable of such astrocity. "Maybe."

"Arthur Pendragon!"

"I know! I fucked up! I fucked up and I'm going to pay for it. She... she doesn't want to see me anymore. Outside of being my bodyguard, that is."

"Can you blame her?"

"No. I just... What am I gonna do Morgana? She's my soulmate, and she wants nothing to do with me? She's actually scared of me."

"You're going to give her time, that's what you're gonna do. You both will be getting your memories back in a couple months. Hopefully fifteen hundred years of being hopelessly in love will trump one serious fuck up."

That's true. And not that he's making excuses, but it's not like he stole her virtue. That remains in tact. "Yeah, you're right. Thanks Morgana."

"No problem. How 'bout we get some lunch tomorrow?" He's already teetering. A dose or two should suffice for the mighty King to fall. Did she seriously just think that? She loves Arthur. She's doing this for him. That old Morgana died that first lifetime, didn't she? She's earned her spot with the Camelot Twelve. Yeah, she's fine. Just a slip of the tongue... or, uh thought.

"Sure. Just text me time and place. I think I want to shower and take a nap." He barely slept the night before.

"All right, Arthur. Sweet dreams." Click.

Yeah.

--

"So Merlynn, how was your date with Arthur?" The brunette has been observing her roommate's behavior and she appears jumpy. The three women are cleaning the kitchen after deciding the flat needed a good scrub down.

The witch startles, expressly at the topic of the query. "Uh... I think Arthur and I are just going to be friends. We didn't really work." She's avoiding eye contact, afraid they would see the truth.

"You didn't work? You didn't work with your soulmate?" The blonde is suspicious.

Merlynn has nearly rubbed the finish off one of their cabinets, which both Elena and Gwen notice eyeing each other in concern. "Yes, well. Soulmate doesn't mean romance. And he and I aren't going to be romance. That's all."

"Merlynn, did something happen?" Gwen says in her sensitive Gwen way.

"No. No. Why would you think that?" The bare wood is now showing, discolored from the rest of the stain. "We just decided we'd keep things professional, that's all."

"Professional? I thought you said you were going to be friends." Elena has completely stopped, with all her attention now on her roommate.

"Yes, well. You know I'm really busy with school and Mordred and my job, and I don't think there will be time to see him in any other capacity. For awhile, anyway."

The brunette delicately pulls Merlynn's hand away before she wears a hole through the cupboard. "Merlynn, you know we love you, right? You can talk to us."

"There's nothing to talk about." The raven wrangles her hand free and crosses her arms as if hugging herself.

The blonde spots the 'gifts' Arthur bestowed the witch from their evening together. "Woah! Where'd you get those bruises?!"

Merlynn immediately slides her gauntlets down, concealing any evidence. "Uh... no where. No where. I think uh... I think I have homework to do. I'll see you later." She sprints from the room escaping anymore questions.

"He hurt her! You know I'm right. With how squirrely she's acting and not wanting to be around him. He hurt her, that fucker!" Elena is fuming, unable to recall a time she was this angry.

"I just can't believe it. I mean... We all knew he wanted her but to... to actually... I wouldn't have thought he'd be capable." Gwen is stunned and appalled at the man she's known for years.

Elena cannot, WILL NOT leave her sweet, lovable friend alone in her pain.

Tap, tap, tap.

"Merlynn, It's Elena. Can I come in?"

The witch quickly wipes her tears away. "Come in."

The first thing the blonde notices is the puffy red eyes and the scarlet cheeks. "Oh Merlynn, have you been crying?"

She responds by looking away. "No. No, just something in my eye."

Elena peers down at her raven roommate. "Merlynn, you don't have to lie to me. I'm your friend. You're my new bestie, remember? Oh sweetheart, cry it out. I'm here." She huddles into the raven settling next to her on the edge of the bed, sheathing her in her arms.

Gwen has entered and follows Elena's example on the other side, flanking their friend. "Merlynn, do you want to tell us?"

"I... uh... I..." She's still unsure and confused.

"We promise no judgment. You can tell us anything," Elena adds.

Merlynn surrenders. Besides, it might help to confide in these loving women. "We... uh... we were kissing and it was nice, but... but then it wasn't." Her words are falling more frantically as she replays the evening's progression. "He pinned me. He held me so tight. I tried to push him away, but he's so strong. I tried... I tried to use my magic. It didn't work. Why wouldn't it work?! My magic has never failed me! I am Magic! How could I not have access to myself? I've never been afraid before, for myself I mean. It was awful, and I have never felt so weak and vulnerable." She doesn't want to think about it. She wants the whole night wiped from her memory.

"Merlynn, what did he do?" Elena fights to keep herself composed. Her roommate doesn't need her losing her temper right now.

"He uh..." The witch is chin to chest in shame. "While I uh..." She sighs. "...was restrained. He... he touched... me... in my uh... upper region." She gestures to her breasts. "He had gone under my shirt so... At that point, I don't know what it was. I screamed, and I had like this burst of strength and I was finally able to push him off. Then I ran."

"Oh Merlynn." Both women tighten their holds in comfort.

"I know women in this society are used to that happening, and maybe he just forgot I'm not one of his other partners. But no one has ever touched me there before, and I didn't like it. That will be for my husband, for Mordred in two years. And then... then, maybe Arthur and I could have something like that, but not before."

"Merlynn. In our society, it is only acceptable for men to do that if we allow it. In this society it is just as wrong to touch someone without consent as anywhere else. Arthur was wrong. Don't feel like you did anything wrong." Elena needs the witch to understand what she's saying. Arthur's behavior was unacceptable.

"I told him we could have the date if he went out this week and satisfied those urges. I wouldn't have let him come otherwise, but he said he couldn't, because they weren't me. That's when I told him we would only see each other professionally, and then I kicked him out."

"You did the right thing, Merlynn. I think you two definitely need some space. Him to get over you and you, you to feel comfortable again," Gwen asserted.

"I just am so confused and angry. This man I was literally created for... I've spent my entire life preparing to join him and protect him. He is my savior and the savior of my people. How could he...? And then why didn't my magic help me? It felt like, like when I called on it, it turned its back. My own magic snubbed me!"

The roommates both know what happened, but their Goddess doesn't. They're both afraid if she knew she'd be terrified. It's like being left on the side of the road with nothing and told to fend for yourself. Her magic did forsake her. It angers them the Triple Goddess would leave her daughter so defenseless.

"Listen Merls. How about you get a shower, get cleaned up, and Gwen and I will take you to the cinema, eh? Just us girls?"

Merlynn imagines the waterfall of her shower. Just the thought relaxes her. "That sounds perfect, actually. Thank you."

"No problem. We'll see what's playing while you're getting ready." Elena guides her friend to the witch's personal loo.

"Okay. Love you guys."

"We love you, too, Merlynn."

They both smile with all the love they can invoke, but frown to each other once the door is shut. They wait for the water to start running to continue their conversation.

"Mithian was right." Elena's fear has been realized.

"Yes, she was."

"Merlynn's magic will protect him above her. With him she's completely helpless."

"I know."

"You know what that means? Our resident Goddess..."

"...is a sitting duck."

--

"So I went out to lunch with him today and gave him the fourth dose. I don't think it will be long. He already assaulted her, and that was only the third dose."

"If I know Arthur Pendragon, and I've got centuries of experience, it's the jealousy and possessiveness that has him moving so fast. If Mordred weren't part of the picture I don't think we'd be having near the success that we have been. You need to play it up. Keep mentioning him to Arthur and get his fire fueling. There was anger and jealousy in the fourth dose, along with a lot of lust and desire. You didn't have the ego booster and strength that the modified third dose had, so you'll have to manipulate him naturally. You need to make him feel powerful. When the time is right give him the scarf. I think that will be what tips the scales."

"You also need to keep them together as much as possible. Just being around her will fuel him," Morgause adds.

"How do I do that when she doesn't want to see him anymore? Not outside of her job anyway."

"Then make it professional, but also make it casual. Something where she has to guard him, but in a fun environment, more social, so they'll be forced to interact."

"Okay. I'll think of something. I need to head back. I'll see you ladies later."

Morgana thinks she might have an idea


11. Another element that was necessary was Albion actually had to happen within Arthur's life. Considering that was the whole reason for Merlin and Arthur's partnership, I thought it was kind of important they actually accomplished it. Just saying.

Next chapter has a long beginning notes and it really is a must read. I didn't want to add this and make it longer.

You may notice the next chapter Merlynn start referring to her King as the prince or king. The lower references are symbolic of how far he's fallen in her eyes.