Author's note: See, I told you guys I will update soon. Sorry for any grammatical mistakes in the last two chapters. I haven't edited them. And now this story has 300 reviews. Hurrah! Thanks to all of you who have reviewed my story. You people are really great. We're going back to Elmet next chapter. It's the chapter I was planning to write from the very begining. Anyway, enough with my rambling. On with the story.
Disclaimer: I don't own Merlin, Game of Thrones or The Elder Scrolls. But I am planning to take over Bethesda soon.
Chapter 27
In Search of an Alliance
[ Ten months later the two kings' departure ]
Arthur and Guinevere were standing alone in front of the large glass window of the war council chamber looking over the city of Camelot. They were waiting for a news. News of the nine month long rebellion going on in the eastern lands of Camelot.
" Do you think we will succeed, Guinevere? " Arthur asked suddenly to his wife.
The queen of Camelot looked at her husband. Giving a soft smile, she took Arthur's hand in hers and said, " You have sent ten thousand men from Camelot. House Indoril has sent two thousands, House Tyrell has sent five thousands, House Redoran has sent another two thousands, Septims and Medes have both sent one thousand soldiers. Also don't forget the Telvanies. Leon is commanding the army. The Lannisters have lost six thousand men in the last ten months. We outnumber them now five to one. I am sure we will win. "
" Arithmetic doesn't win the war, Guinevere. You know that. Otherwise the Lannisters would have been crushed a long time ago. " Arthur said with a deep sigh.
" Number is not the only factor, Arthur. Things have changed much in the recent months. Lannisters have lost control of their gold mine and their farm lands. They have run out of food. There's rumour in the air that Jaime's own people have tried to assassinate him. We have besieged Casterly Rock from every side. They don't have enough men to counter our army. No houses are supporting them. They hate the Lannisters. " Arthur was going to say something but Guinevere raised her hand and stopped the king from speaking.
" Besides, Tyrion is helping us. He knows every nook and corner of that fortress. Leon will storm that castle in no time. Maybe he has already done it and coming back to us with Jaime and Cersei in chains. " Gwen was saying this while Arthur was looking at her with awe in his eyes.
" When did you become so good in strategic assumptions, Guinevere? "
Guinevere blushed hearing the compliment. She gave a shy smile and said, " You have taught me well. "
Arthur stroked Guinevere's hair with his hand and began to lean closer. Guinevere began to do the same. And soon, they were locked in a passionate kiss. Arthur began to feel rejuvenated. Guinevere's presence always made him feel like that.
When Merlin left and Guinevere stopped talking with him, it devastated him from the inside. She only began to talk with him after Aren's fourth birthday and Arthur knew that if she hadn't done that, he would have gone insane soon.
After Urien and James's departure from Camelot, Guinevere had been pushing Arthur hard to go to Elmet and meet with Merlin.
Arthur would have gone to Elmet due to Guinevere's tenacity. But just after one month of Urien and James's leaving, troubling news had come to him.
Sir Jaime Lannister had raised the flag of rebellion and amassed an army of ten thousand soldiers. He had called upon the other great houses to rebel against the Pendragon Royal Family saying the king had gone mad and fallen to an enchantment.
On the other side, Arthur had secretly contacted with House Tyrell's leader, Sir Leon's old father Lord Edmund Tyrell and House Indoril's leader Lord Nerevar Indoril.
Tyrells owned lands at the north of Casterly Rock and Indorils owned lands at the south of the Lannister lands. These two houses were always in dispute with the Lannisters. Arthur promised that Tyrells would get the gold mine and Indorils would get the fertile lands of the Lannisters if they helped the Pendragons.
Both of the lords had agreed and declared war against the Lannisters. The Septims, The Medes, The Redorans, The Resdyns all these houses remained loyal to the crown.
Even Tyrion Lannister, Jaime's dwarf brother who became an outcast of the Lannister family after killing his father, Tywin Lannister came to Camelot and wanted to help the Pendragon army. Arthur had welcomed the half man in open arms and included him in the Royal Council.
After that, the most surprising thing was discovered. Lord Neloth Telvani, leader of House Telvani, one of the oldest houses of Camelot revealed that they had had sorcerers in their family for generations and they still had many sorcerers among them.
They were only able to hide their powers from Uther because they were very weak in any form of magic. Only healing magic had been their specialty. Lord Neloth revealed that he himself was a magical healer. He had thanked Arthur for repealing the ban on healing magic and offered his and his people's service to the king.
To say Arthur was surprised to discover the secret of the Telvanies would be an understatement. He was bewildered. But he had accepted Neloth's service. Now almost at the end of the rebellion, Arthur knew that he had made the right choice. Because although most of the soldiers were wary of the Telvani healers at first, they soon became to trust those healers when they began to heal and save hundreds of soldiers' lives.
It's because of those healers, there had been hardly any casualties on the Pendragon side. An astounding thing that Arthur knew would have been impossible without the help of healing magic.
In a way, Arthur had thanked Jaime for this rebellion. It revealed to Arthur that the people of the kingdom had hated the Lannisters' tyranny more than they had feared magic. It made clear that the Royal Councilors had always hated the influence of the Lannisters in the court as they were filthy rich.
It also gave Arthur the opportunity to crush the monopoly of the Lannisters in the economy of Camelot.
People were becoming more accepting towards magic because of the healers of House Telvani, The tyrannical Lannisters would soon be crushed, House Indoril and Tyrell had become stronger allies of House Pendragon. And people were praising the king for winning a war with an astounding ammount of minimal casualties. Approximately one hundred soldiers had died on the Pendragon side which was nothing compared to the casualties during the two invasions of Morgana.
But the most baffling thing about the rebellion was the Lannister army's endurance. They were outnumbered from the begining. Their own people had hated them always for their cruelty. All of Camelot were against them. Then, what made Jaime so confident to become a rebel. Yes, the Lannisters had always hated magic. They were his father's greatest supporter in his war against magic.
Arthur's father had gifted them the gold mine of Casterly Rock because of their support. That's why they had become so rich thus acting like they were royalty. People hated them for their pompous and arrogant behaviour. Jaime knew that no one but his own mercenaries would support him.
Where Jaime had found the courage to rebel against him? And how was he able to hold back Arthur's army for ten months while at the same time suffering heavy casualties. These questions were bugging him from the begining of the rebellion.
He intended to ask these questions to Jaime himself. It had been tradition in Camelot to execute rebels without any trail. But Arthur was planning to give Jaime a trail even though the king was sure he would be proven guilty. But Arthur believed that even the worst criminal should be given a chance to speak in their defense. And a great king must listen to the guilty and judge with kindness.
After all, it can't be called fair judgement if the judge didn't feel remorse and sadness for the guilty. Arthur had once failed to be a righteous judge for his friend. He was not going to make the same mistake again.
The king of Camelot was brought out of his reverie by his queen.
" Arthur, look. " Guinevere pointed to the outer city.
Arthur looked out through the open window and saw the army of Camelot was returning and Leon was leading the army at the front.
' It's the moment of truth. ' Arthur thought to himself.
OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
Sir Leon entered the war council chamber only a few minutes later; Gwaine and Percival entered the room just after him. Arthur was sitting on his throne, Guinevere at his side, her right hand placed over his left hand. The entire war council and royal court's members were gathered into the chamber
" What news, Sir Leon? " Arthur asked calmly although he was bursting in excitement inside.
" We've won, sire. The rebellion is crushed. Casterly Rock is ours. The Lannisters are defeated. " Leon said with a proud smile on his face.
" Where is Sir Jaime and his wife, Cersei Lannister? " Arthur asked. He expected Leon to bring them straight to him.
Sir Leon was hesitating to answer. Guinevere gave a reassuring smile and said, " What's the matter, Leon? Answer the question. "
" Sire, there's been some complications. " Leon said.
Arthur sat up straightly on his throne. Suddenly everyone in the room became silent. All of them were waiting for the king's response.
" Like what? "
" Jaime, his wife Cersei and their only son Joffrey is dead, sire. " Leon said in a grim tone.
Most of the occupants in the room cheered in relief but Guinevere gasped in shock. Arthur shouted, " SILENCE! "
Every cheer died down instantly. Arthur took a deep breath and looked at his general of the army.
" What happened, Leon? I thought I told you to bring him alive. " Arthur said in a demanding voice.
" We tried, sire. But things turned out differently during the battle. " Leon said. He looked guilty and Arthur's facial expression softened.
" I am listening. Tell me everything. "
Leon heaved a sigh and started, " We broke through the castle gate easily. Most of the Lannister mercenaries fled when we entered the citadel. We thought we had won. But the main danger was awaiting us inside the citadel. "
" What kind of danger? " Arthur sounded alarmed.
" Booby traps, sire. Numerous booby traps. Every one of them were very dangerous. "
Many gasps were heard throughout the hall but Arthur told Leon to continue.
" If it weren't for Tyrion, we would have suffered massive casualties. He knew every part of Casterly Rock. He led us through a secret passageway of the castle. But unfortunately... " Leon stopped there suddenly.
" Unfortunately? " Arthur asked dreading what he might hear.
" When Tyrion led us directly to the grand hall, Jaime attacked him from behind. He was waiting for him. Tyrion was caught off guard and he stood no chance against Jaime. " Leon heaved a sigh.
Some drops of tear rolled down Guinevere's cheeks. Arthur squeezed his beloved's hand gently and said, " He was a brave man. We owe him very much. It's a shame he didn't give me the chance to repay him. Where is his body, Leon? "
" We brought him back with us. "
Arthur nodded affirmatively and looked at his new manservant, Theon and said, " Theon, make sure that Tyrion's body is prepared for his funeral. We are going to give him a knight's funeral. "
Theon nodded, " At once, sire. " The young servant went out of the room hurriedly. Arthur brought his attention back to Leon and said, " You haven't told me how Jaime died. "
Leon coughed and said, " Oh! After killing Tyrion, he went to attack me. I have to admit sire, he was an excellent swordsman. I was begining to lose against him. If my squire, Podrick hadn't stabbed him on the back, I don't know where I would have been now. " He looked back where his young squire was standing. The young man was looking down. His face was red. Arthur chuckled seeing the squire's shyness and said,
" Well done, Podrick. You have my thanks for saving Leon. "
Podrick just gave a nod and a shy smile. The king looked back at Leon and said, " What of Cersei and Joffrey? "
" We found them in Cersei's chamber. They were both dead by the time we reached there. They poisoned themselves. "
Arthur heaved a sigh and asked, " Their bodies? "
" We buried them in the crypt of Casterly Rock. " Leon said.
" Good job, Leon. Go and rest now. You and your men have earned it. I am going to raise the soldiers' pays. Also I will make a public speech this afternoon. I expect you to be present there. The court is dismissed. "
Everyone left the chamber soon hearing Arthur's orders but Leon, Gwaine and Percival stayed.
" What is it, Leon? Is there anything else you wanted to tell me personally? " Arthur asked with a surprised tone.
" Yes, Arthur. You see, Gwaine was suddenly feeling thirsty after the battle. And we all know Lannister wine is famous throughout Camelot. Specially, the wine Cersei used to drink was considered legendary. " Leon said with an amused smile etched on his face.
" Get to the point. " Arthur was trying to sound annoyed but he couldn't hide his amusement.
" No need to get so cranky, princess. " Gwaine said with a smirk and Arthur rolled his eyes at that.
" Long story short, I found this while I was searching for a bottle of wine in Cersei's room. " Gwaine handed Arthur a piece of parchment.
Arthur took it from Gwaine. It was a letter. " Thought you might to want to read it. " Gwaine said. His expression had become serious now.
Arthur began to read the letter. Colour began to drain from his face while reading it. By the time, he finished reading the letter, his face became very pale.
" What is it, Arthur? What's in the letter? " Guinevere said with a worried voice.
Arthur silently gave the letter to Guinevere and then, looked at his knights. " Bring Geoffrey, Gaius and Neloth to me. "
The three of them nodded and left the room.
Meanwhile, Guinevere was reading the letter.
Lord Jaime,
I am disappointed in you. You told me that you would be able to end the reign of the Pendragons by rallying people behind you. That's why I have supported you with money and my men. But you have wasted them both. It seems that Camelot's people hate you more than they fear magic. You are pathetic. You have lost the gold mine to the Tyrells, you have lost the farmlands to the Indorils. And I have heard that the Pendragons are coming to take your castle. Well, they can take it. I am not going to waste any more men for you. I need them for my own army. Rot in the dungeon of Arthur Pendragon, Jaime. It's the last time you're going to hear from me.
From
Your disappointed benefactor
By the time, Guinevere had finished reading the letter, the three knights had returned with Geoffrey, Gaius and Neloth.
" Someone was supporting the Lannisters, Arthur. That's why they got the courage to stand against you. " Guinevere said. Her voice was a little shaky.
" I am going to find who is that person, Guinevere. Don't worry. " Arthur said that but he himself couldn't help feeling worried. If someone was trying to destroy Camelot with war and rebellion, then it's certainly not good news. Especially, if that someone was trying to sow the seed of doubt and hatred among his own people.
" You called for us, your majesty? " Neloth Telvani asked.
Arthur stopped his musing and looked at the three old men. " Yes, I am afraid. We've not won the war yet. Someone is plotting against Camelot and I need your help to uncover it. "
" Our help? " The three old men said in unison.
" Yes. " Arthur said and then he looked pointedly at the Royal Archive's Keeper. " Sir Geoffrey, I have heard that you have travelled across the entire Albion before I was born. Is it true? "
The old Archivist frowned hearing the question while Gaius gave everyone the ' Eyebrow of doom '. ( Gwaine named it and Arthur found it very catchy ) " Yes, sire. I travelled throughout Albion's every kingdoms in my younger days. " The old man said with a nostalgic tone.
Arthur handed him the letter and asked, " Can you say where this parchment was made? "
Without saying any word, Geoffrey took the parchment and began to rub it with his finger. He smelled the paper and after that he closed his eyes as if he was trying to remember something.
Nobody talked. All of them were holding their breath in anticipation. Sometimes later, Geoffrey opened his eyes and said, " The parchment is very thin and made of sheep skin. It looks very expensive and the smell of the paper reminds me of only one kingdom. I believe this parchment is made and used in the royal palace of Amata. "
Arthur's heart skipped a bit hearing the old man's words.
" Are you sure, Geoffrey? " Arthur said hesitantly.
Geoffrey looked like he was offended. He frowned again and said, " Of course, I am sure. I never forget how a parchment's touch feels like. It may sound odd to you. But I am telling you. This is from Amata. There is no mistake." His voice was firm and confident.
' This can't be happening. ' Arthur thought. He looked at his wife and saw that she looked alarmed too.
But he didn't let himself panic. He coughed and called Neloth and Gaius forward.
" Neloth, Gaius, do you know any spell that can tell me who is the letter's writer? "
" Are you commanding us to do something that is banned by the law? " Gaius asked. He was very surprised by the king's question.
" I don't care, Gaius. Camelot's safety is at stake. " Arthur shouted furiously.
" Sorry, your majesty. I only heard about that spell. But I don't know it. And even if I knew it, I wouldn't have been able to cast it. I've heard it is a very difficult spell. Even with me and Neloth together wouldn't be able to do it. "
Gaius said and gave an apologetic look to Arthur.
" Neloth? " Arthur looked at the Telvani sorcerer hoping that Gaius might be wrong. But his hope was shattered when Neloth spoke up.
" I am sorry, your grace. Gaius is right. I don't know the spell and I don't have the power. "
As soon as Neloth stopped, Gaius spoke up again.
" But if Merlin was here, he might've been able to do something. He might not need any spell to do it. He is after all Emrys. "
Arthur lowered his head and remained silent for a while. Then, he raised his head and said, " Thank you for your help. Please return to your chambers. The council is now adjourned. I have a speech to make in the afternoon. Don't be late. "
All of them including the royals went out of the council room and Arthur wasn't feeling relieved like he thought he would feel after winning the war against the Lannisters.
OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
That night, Arthur couldn't sleep. Only the warnings of Urien and James were ringing inside his head. It seemed their words were becoming true.
He might not know who was Jaime's benefactor but he had a suspect in mind. Geoffrey said the parchment was from Amata's Royal Palace. It must be from the king of Amata, Sauron. He must've supplied gold and soldiers and arms to Jaime through the Camelot-Mercia border near Casterly Rock.
And if that's the case, he can't remain neutral for no longer. He has to act before this Amatan alliance becomes a dangerous threat for Camelot. And he only will be able to do it if he and his allies declare an alliance with the northern alliance led by ' King ' Merlin.
He was longing to meet his friend and at the same time he was dreading it too. But Arthur felt that there was some mysterious force that was pushing him towards Merlin. And he could feel it sooner or later he would have to face his ' king ' friend.
And for the love of Camelot, he had made his decision. He must stop Amata at all cost. Camelot can't afford another rebellion. This time it destroyed Casterly Rock. Next time it might destroy the city of Camelot itself. In order to stop that horrible future, he will go to Elmet soon because time is of the essence.
He will go to King Merlin Ambrosius in search of an alliance.
OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
So, what do you guys think? I have made Jaime and Cersei spouse instead of sibling because their incest disgusted me. I hope you've liked it. Drop me a review, please. I always love to hear your thoughts. Today's questions: 1. Who is your favourite actor and actress? My favourite actor is Colin Morgan and favourite actress is Scarlet Johansson.
2. What is Colin Morgan's next movie coming this April?
Next chapter's name is: Do you hear the people sing?
Can anybody guess what will happen in there? Happy reading and have a good day or night. I am off to play Sid Meir's Civilization 5 now.
Adios.
- Assassin of Syria.