Fic: A "Brother's" Duty
Arthur was pacing about his rooms in nervous agitation. He’d fought monsters, and immortal armies, but this was worse. Today, Arthur was going to marry Gwen.
Sir Leon was his best man and had thrown him a blast of a bachelor party the day before. Arthur was certain everyone who’d attended was still a tiny bit hung-over. He’d sent Merlin to check on Gwen and the preparations in the Great Hall, because his constant gabber wasn’t making his head any better, even with Gaius’ remedy to cure all hangovers.
So now, only Sir Leon watch his prince pace about nervously. “My lord, may I speak with you?” he asked.
“Of course, what is it?” Arthur said, glad to have something other than the wedding get his attention.
“As you know, Gwen’s mother worked in my parent’s household,” Leon began. “She and I grew up together, and in that time I’ve come to regard Gwen like a little sister. I know, I can see how much she loves you and how happy she is to become your wife, and I’m very happy for her, and for you.”
“Thank you, Leon,” Arthur said. “I’m glad to know I have your steadfast approval.”
“Yes you do,” Leon said. “And I would be very disappointed if Gwen became unhappy in any way with the marriage,” he added as he came over to Arthur, towering over him, leaning close and looking him straight in the eye. “Do we understand each other?”
Arthur is stunned and surprised. He would have expected such feeling from Gwen’s brother, Sir Elyan, but to be so threatened by quiet, dependable, amiable, loyal Leon was quite another matter.
Looking up, “Yes, completely,” Arthur replied.
The groom and best man shook hands with smiles and went to the Great Hall for the wedding.