you and i are a story that never gets told (7/13)
Title: you and i are a story that never gets told (7/~13)
Fandom: Merlin
Characters/Pairings: Arthur/Morgana, any and all other characters
Word Count: 5,780
Rating: PG-13
Disclaimer: I don't own any of this stuff, because if I did ArMor would be canon.
Spoilers: Vague spoilers for all of Merlin series 2
Summary: Perhaps there was another way, if only it had gone a little different at the start. How it should've been, aka Series 2 the proper way.
Author's Notes: Ever write something and decide that you really hate the way you took the story, but don't want to go back and redo it? Yeah, that was me with this chapter. I only hope that the ending makes up for the rest of the chapter.
Previous Chapters: Prologue, Chapter 1, Chapter 2, Chapter 3, Chapter 4, Chapter 5
---
Even though Arthur had acknowledged that Morgana had magic, and had sworn to protect her with his life, he was still having a hard time adjusting. It was difficult, having to see past all the prejudice his father had instilled in him and to just see Morgana as Morgana. He truly was trying, but it was taking some time.
Morgana had noticed the change, and she originally gave Arthur his space to let him process. However, it had been over a week, and patience wasn’t her strong suit when it came to him. So eventually she decided that enough was enough. She was going to prove to him that she was the same girl he’d always known, and she knew the perfect way.
She found Arthur down on the training grounds. He had just finished training with a group of new recruits who were soon to be knighted. A smile quirked up on the edge of her lips as she watched him swing his sword through the air with ease. He truly was magnificent to watch, not that she’d ever tell him that.
Merlin sensed her presence first and turned to greet her. His words died on his tongue as soon as he saw her, though. She was dressed in her chainmail and breeches, with a sword hanging low off her belt. He dropped his head into his hands, mumbling to himself, “Oh, no.”
Morgana smiled cheerfully as she approached the pair. “Hello, boys.”
Arthur finally registered that she was there and turned to face her. “Morgana.”
His tone lacked the normal warmth and excitement it usually held when he saw her and her face fell slightly as a result. Pushing her feelings down, she continued with her plan. “You know, I figured practicing with the new knights must have been a bit boring. They’re clearly no match for you yet. I thought perhaps you’d want a real workout before bed.”
Merlin nearly choked on his own saliva.
Rolling her eyes, Morgana unsheathed her sword. “I meant sword practice, Merlin.” Her gaze turned to Arthur, her smile back in place. “You know I’m better than those boys.”
He nodded in agreement, but he didn’t return her smile. “Surely you are, but I think I’ve had enough for today.”
She resisted the urge to stamp her foot like a child. Arthur could be so damn stubborn. Pushing through the annoyance, she goaded, “Afraid of a real challenge, Arthur?”
Arthur huffed, clearly not impressed by her accusation. “We all know that I’d beat you, Morgana, and I don’t really need the lecture from father today about hurting your delicate feelings.”
She thrust out her sword, holding it level with Arthur’s face. “If you’re so sure, then prove it.”
He shook his head. “Morgana…”
She grinned at him and reached out with her free arm to shove at his shoulder. “Come on. It’ll be fun.”
Sighing, he gave in. “Fine, but when I win you can’t go griping about it.”
Pleased with herself, she dropped her sword back to her waist. “Deal.”
They both made their way across the field to an open area and prepared to spar. Merlin brought Arthur his sword and both parties dropped into a fighting stance.
Morgana’s long braid whipped around her shoulders as she turned to Merlin and ordered, “Call it.”
Merlin was hesitant, but did as he was told. He called out, “Begin.”
Arthur moved forward first, striking in an attack move. Morgana easily parried the blow, fighting back with equal fervor, and perhaps even more determination. The two continued to attack and defend, both clearly skilled with a sword.
Arthur swung his sword in a low arc and caused Morgana to jump back from the blade as it neared her stomach. She glared at him before returning the favor with a downward slice of her sword that caused him to stumble as he blocked the blow.
The two carried on for a while like that, until finally Arthur caught Morgana’s sword on an upswing and knocked it out of her grasp.
The sword clattered to the ground several feet away from her and Arthur smiled triumphantly. “See, I told-”
Before he could finish, Morgana flew at him, crashing into his body and shoving him firmly to the ground from the force. She fell over with him and sat on top of him, straddling his waist. Without even blinking, she pulled a knife out of her boot and held it to his throat.
Arthur was absolutely dumbstruck.
She threw her head back, unable to hold in her laughter. She settled some and smirked down at her opponent. “You were saying?”
Arthur finally stopped gaping like a fish and managed to frown at her, but it lacked the sternness it had held over the past few days. “You cheated.”
She shrugged. “No one said we were fighting fair.”
He grumbled, “You never fight fair.”
Cocking her head, she pushed her knife closer to his neck and asked, “Do you yield?”
“No.” He started to smile at that, refusing to let her have the satisfaction.
In the spirit of not fighting fair, she took it one step further. The smile that she wore was disconcerting, but before Arthur could do anything to stop her, she rocked her hips back against him and caused him to lose the ability to speak.
His reaction was immediate and he squeaked out, “I yield.”
Morgana rolled off of him, lying on her back in the dirt next to him. “You’re too easy, Arthur Pendragon.”
He huffed in annoyance. “I am never fighting you again.”
She burst into laughter, feeling some semblance of normalcy again.
Arthur turned his head to look at her and couldn’t help but smile at the sight. Her hair was jutting out at odd angles from her braid, and she had a smudge of dirt across her cheek. Her laughter was something so sweet and familiar that he found himself wondering how he ever could’ve doubted who she was. Wistfully, he murmured, “I’ve missed you.”
Tilting her head to look at him, her laughter stilled and she countered softly, “I never left, Arthur.”
His smile brightened. “Yeah, I’m getting that.”
Morgana chuckled, thankful that he had come to his senses. “Well, you always were a bit slow.”
“Hey!”
---
The next day, Morgana and Arthur stood in the great hall, watching as Uther knighted a group of Camelot’s newest protectors. Uther began to boast about Arthur’s abilities to the knights, which was making Arthur glow with pride. Morgana leaned back and smirked over at Arthur behind the king’s back, refusing to let his ego go completely unchecked.
The processions were abruptly brought to a halt as noises of a struggle could be heard outside the doors. Suddenly, a warrior dressed in full armor entered the room, strutting with the air of a victor. All of the new knights drew their swords, prepared to protect their king.
Morgana caught Arthur’s eye for a brief second, silently begging him to not get involved. She knew better, of course.
The mysterious visitor threw down the gauntlet expectantly, and as Morgana feared, Arthur bent down to pick it up.
“I accept your challenge.” He spoke with the eerie calmness of a true knight. “If I am to face you in combat, do me the courtesy of revealing your identity.”
Morgana watched intently as the intruder removed their helmet, revealing long golden locks and a beautiful face. Morgana sucked in a breath, as did the rest of the court.
The warrior woman spoke, “My name is Morgause.”
Arthur stared in awe, trying his best to remain stoic despite the strange situation.
An odd feeling washed over Morgana as she stared at the woman, and she could swear that she had met this Morgause somewhere before.
---
Uther had immediately enlisted Geoffrey of Monmouth’s help, and after a thorough search of the challenge rules, it was found that there was nothing to stop Morgause from issuing a challenge against Arthur.
Arthur accepted this and was still planning on fighting, since he was unwilling to look a coward in any way.
Once Morgana heard that the fight was still on, she went to see Arthur in his chambers. She found him at the window, staring out at Morgause as she fought in the courtyard. Until the challenge, Morgause was to stay in the castle, which was making Morgana uneasy.
Arthur could feel Morgana’s stare on his back, and he knew something was troubling her. “What is it, Morgana?”
She padded over to the window to stand next to him. “I know you won’t listen, but… I don’t think you should fight this woman.”
“And why is that?” He had yet to look away from the window.
“There’s something about her, Arthur. I don’t know what it is. I’m… I’m worried.”
Her statement made him turn away from the window. He saw that she was serious about this. “Was it one of your dreams?” He didn’t know everything about her magic, but he did know that her nightmares were often visions of things to come.
She shook her head. “No, just, a feeling.” She laughed at herself, “I know you don’t put much stock in my feelings, but I figured I should at least tell you.”
Arthur smiled softly at her, feeling a pang of guilt for his past behavior. She was only looking out for him. “I’ll see if I can convince her to withdraw. But that’s all I can do, Morgana.”
Nodding, Morgana accepted his decision. “Thank you.” She glanced down through the window before quietly leaving his chambers.
---
Despite Arthur following through on his promise, Morgause had not accepted his proposal to withdraw, and the fight was still to take place.
Morgana paced her room for what seemed like hours before the fight. She knew that Arthur was a skilled fighter, but she couldn’t shake the feeling in her stomach that something was going to go wrong.
As everyone poured into the arena to watch, Morgana slipped away from Uther’s side to go and see Arthur. She caught sight of him as he walked across the grounds and she tried her best to smile at him.
Arthur returned her smile as he moved past her, brushing his fingers against hers for the briefest of moments.
No one else noticed the private exchange, but the feeling of his touch immediately brightened Morgana’s mood.
Arthur stepped out into the arena and faced Morgause. Whispering to her, he implored, “This is your last chance to withdraw.”
Morgause said nothing.
Recognizing her unwillingness to back down, Arthur put on his helmet and prepared himself for the fight.
Morgana watched nervously from the stands as the fight began. Neither Arthur nor Morgause seemed to have the upper hand at the start, with both parties moving swiftly and delivering well-placed blows.
Arthur was fighting very well, and he eventually managed to knock Morgause’s sword from her hand. On his swing, he sliced a cut through her arm that managed to draw blood.
Morgana breathed a sigh of relief, hoping that the fight was over. Though she strangely didn’t want Morgause dead, she cared more for Arthur’s life and needed him to be victorious.
However, Arthur, being a gentleman, allowed Morgause to retrieve her sword and the fight continued. Morgause came at him with several vigorous attacks, but Arthur parried the blows and managed to get her up against the wall of the arena.
Morgana held her breath.
Arthur swung his sword, ready to make the killing blow, but Morgause spun out of the way. With Arthur’s back to her, she kicked out his knees, knocking him to the ground. Arthur’s helmet flew off as his head collided with the earth, and he looked up at his opponent from where he lay on his back. He tried to sit up, but Morgause’s sword was suddenly at his chest, pushing him further into the dirt.
From where she sat, Morgana could only see the back of Arthur’s head and the sword pressing down above his heart. She desperately wanted to jump in the arena and save him, but she forced herself to stay seated. Instead, she gripped the arms of her chair so violently that she feared they would break.
Morgause took off her helmet as she stared down at her fallen opponent. “Make me a promise,” she requested, “and I will spare your life.”
“What is it you ask?”
“Come to me three days hence, and accept the challenge I set here.” She continued to press down with her sword, waiting for his response.
“And the nature of this challenge?” Arthur asked.
“That is for me to decide,” she explained. “Do I have your word that you will accept? No matter what.”
Arthur had no choice but agree, since her sword was at his chest. Though he feared he may regret it, he replied, “You have my word.”
At that, Morgause pulled away her sword and offered Arthur her hand. As he took it, she pulled him to his feet. Morgause turned to the king and bowed her head, excusing herself from the arena.
Morgana watched in amazement, her heart still in her throat. She suddenly had a sinking feeling that this was Morgause’s plan all along.
---
Morgana made her way to their guest’s chambers once she was sure Morgause had returned from her visit with Gaius. She was still wary of this stranger, but the woman had spared Arthur, and something about her was so familiar, it was driving Morgana slightly mad.
She opened the door to Morgause’s chambers and slipped inside. As Morgause rounded a corner, Morgana noticed her startled expression and felt the need to be courteous. “I didn’t mean to intrude. I wanted to introduce myself. I’m the Lady Morgana.”
Morgause smiled at her. “I know who you are.”
There was a bit of awkward silence as Morgause studied Morgana carefully, so Morgana added, “You fought very well today. There are not many capable of defeating Arthur.”
Morgause hummed in agreement. “Yes, he is quite a skilled warrior.”
Gathering up her courage, Morgana questioned, “This challenge of yours, are you planning to harm him?”
The blonde cocked her head, intrigued by the query. “I see that the thought troubles you. But I assure you, I mean no harm to the prince. I believe I demonstrated that today, did I not?”
Morgana nodded, still feeling wary. She couldn’t shake the feeling that she knew this woman, and she found the words tumbling out of her mouth. “Could it be that we’ve met somewhere before?”
Morgause shook her head, negating the question. “I’m glad we’ve met now,” she continued.
As Morgause moved, Morgana caught sight of her intricate bracelet, and yet again the familiarity swept over her, though she doubted she had ever seen that actual bracelet before. “That’s a beautiful bracelet,” she murmured.
Morgause looked down at the bracelet on her wrist before addressing Morgana. “It was a gift, from my mother.” She assessed Morgana once more, noticing the slight circles under her eyes. “Perhaps you should take it.” Before Morgana could protest, Morgause went on, “You look as though you haven’t been sleeping.”
Morgana cautiously nodded in response.
“This is a healing bracelet. I would like you to have it, it will help you sleep.”
Shaking her head, Morgana backed away a step. “I couldn’t.” Quickly, she added, “You must be tired, I should let you rest.” She exited the room, only looking back once before shutting the door.
---
After the fight, Merlin couldn’t seem to stop cracking jokes at Arthur’s expense. Arthur continually protested that he was hindered because Morgause was a woman, but Merlin didn’t buy it.
“You didn’t look hindered.”
“Merlin,” Arthur growled.
Ignoring the threat, Merlin continued, “Not when you were fighting Morgana either. I mean, losing to two women in one week? I think you might be slipping.”
“MERLIN!”
Morgana could hear the scream from down the hall, and she chuckled to herself as she entered Arthur’s chambers unannounced. “Oh Arthur, don’t be so hard on Merlin.”
Arthur grumbled something unpleasant under his breath, fed up with the both of them.
Morgana smiled over at Merlin knowingly before speaking to Arthur. “Don’t worry; I’m not here to give you a hard time.”
“Then why are you here?” Arthur asked, tempering his anger for Morgana’s sake.
Sighing, she sat down in one of Arthur’s dinner chairs. “Are you planning on going through with this challenge?”
“I gave her my word.”
She had known his answer before he even spoke. “I know.” She ducked her head, staring at the table.
Arthur could tell she was worried, so he went and sat down in the chair across from her. He bent forward over the table to speak to her. “I’ll be fine, Morgana. Merlin’s coming with, and you know how helpful he can be.”
Morgana knew he was being sarcastic, but it actually did make her feel better. She suddenly was struck with an idea, and looked up from the table to meet Arthur’s eyes. “Take me with you as well.”
Arthur shook his head and leaned back away from the table to rest against his chair. “No, it’s too dangerous.”
Her eyes narrowed. “You just said it would be fine.”
He shrugged. “Even still, you’re not coming, Morgana.”
“I could help! You know I could. And besides, then I wouldn’t have to sit here worrying, now would I?”
He knew that she wanted to protect him, but he couldn’t allow her to do this. “It’s my challenge, Morgana, I have to go alone.”
Morgana countered, “Merlin’s going.”
Arthur waved it off. “Merlin doesn’t count.”
Merlin scoffed in the background.
Morgana wasn’t giving up that easily, though. “I’m going to find a way to come, so either you agree or I’ll sneak out and follow you.”
He let out a sigh of exasperation. “Father hasn’t even agreed to let me go yet, Morgana.”
She grinned. “Then we’ll both sneak out.”
Dropping his head down to let it rest on the table, he mumbled, “You’re going to be the death of me, Morgana.”
---
Morgause left the next morning, after leaving a gift for Morgana in her chambers. The blonde had snuck in and whispered an enchantment over the bracelet before leaving it on Morgana’s armoire.
Morgana had yet to notice the trinket, since she had been up all night with Merlin in Gaius’s chambers. The pair discussed their plans for their journey with Arthur, and practiced protection spells as a precaution.
Merlin seemed exhausted by the next day, but Morgana didn’t lament the lack of sleep, since it would only bring more nightmares. Her work with Merlin had helped, as did her days with Arthur, but the nightmares were still a constant presence in her life. At the moment, the most pressing matter was helping Arthur, however, so she ignored her own problems.
As Morgause had departed, she mentioned to Arthur that she had known his mother, which only spurred his desire to fulfill her request even more. Uther had strictly forbidden it, throwing around claims of Morgause being a possible sorceress as his excuse. Due to his stubborn nature, Arthur had ignored his father’s protests and had Merlin prepare to secretly leave the castle before dawn.
That night, Merlin stole some supplies and a stretch of rope to aid in their escape. As he entered Arthur’s chambers in the early morning hours, he noticed that a certain someone was missing. “Where’s Morgana?”
Arthur shrugged his shoulders. “I guess she came to her senses.”
They both knew that was highly unlikely, and Merlin was concerned. “She was going to try and get some rest before our journey; maybe we should go wake her up.”
“Merlin, Morgana can barely sleep for an hour without waking.” He slung the bag of supplies over his shoulder. “I’m sure she’d be here if she wanted to be.”
Merlin began to protest, but Arthur interrupted before he could start.
“Look, we need to be away from the city before the sun comes up, we don’t have time for this. Morgana is much safer here in her bed than out there with us, so will you please hurry up?”
Merlin conceded his point and helped Arthur out of the window. After both of them had landed on their faces, they cleaned themselves off and made their way to the stables. They led their horses out to the edge of the grounds before mounting and starting on their way.
---
When Guinevere came into Morgana’s chambers, she was surprised to find her mistress fast asleep. The sun had been up for hours, and Morgana normally would’ve woken long ago. She went over to the bed and called, “Morgana?”
Morgana didn’t so much as flinch, so Gwen started to lightly shake her shoulder. “Morgana.” When she still received no response, she become more insistent and shook Morgana harder. “Morgana!”
Finally Morgana opened her eyes, surveying her surroundings. It took her a second, but she sprung up into a sitting position, asking, “What time is it?”
“It’s nearly midday.”
Morgana quickly got out of bed, throwing on her shoes and a dress robe.
“Morgana?” Gwen questioned, but she was ignored.
Morgana ran out of her chambers and down the hall until she reached Arthur’s door. She noticed the guards there and smiled sweetly at them. “I’m just here to see the prince.”
The guards stepped aside and let her in the room. As soon as she was inside she knew she was too late. Arthur’s bed was empty and his window open. She noticed that his sword was missing as well. Knowing that there was no way she could catch them, she lowered herself onto Arthur’s bed and sulked. Hopefully Merlin would look out for Arthur, but she feared that this challenge would have devastating consequences.
---
It took Arthur and Merlin nearly a whole days ride to reach Morgause’s destination. The horse had done most of the navigating and did not stop to rest often, so both Arthur and Merlin were confused and tired by the journey’s end.
As they rode under a waterfall, Merlin questioned, “Are you sure about this, Arthur?”
“If she knows anything about my mother, Merlin, I have to know.”
Merlin nodded, understanding the desire to know about one’s parent. He continued to ride alongside Arthur until they reached what looked like an abandoned castle.
They dismounted their horses and walked up the stone steps to an enclosed courtyard. There was an axe sticking out of a block of wood, but otherwise there was nothing there.
Arthur called out, “Now what?”
Just as Merlin opened his mouth to suggest that they leave, Morgause appeared at the top of a staircase in a glittering red gown.
“You kept your promise.” She descended the stairs and walked towards Arthur.
“What is the nature of the challenge you wish to set me?” Arthur asked.
Morgause replied, “Place your head on the block.” She lifted up the axe to clear a space for his head. At Arthur’s hesitation, she continued, “You gave me your word.”
As Arthur bent down to place his head on the block, Merlin yelled, “What are you doing? I won’t let you do this!” His heart was pounding; it couldn’t possibly end this way. Desperately, he tried, “Think about Morgana! You can’t just leave her!”
Arthur shut his eyes, trying to block out the painful images of Morgana that crossed through his mind. He ground out, “Stay out of this, Merlin.”
Morgause lifted up the axe, preparing to swing it at Arthur’s exposed neck. As she lifted it, Merlin struggled to stay still, but before he could try and stop her, she set the axe down on the ground. She walked away from the block, explaining, “You have shown that you are truly a man of your word, Arthur Pendragon.”
Arthur jumped up off of the ground, confused and aggravated.
Morgause turned back to look at him. “And for that I will grant you one wish. Tell me what it is that your heart most desires.”
It was surprising that Morgana’s face was the first he thought of before he remembered his true purpose for coming here. “You said you knew my mother. Tell me all that you know about her.”
“Perhaps you would like to see her.”
Arthur’s heart lurched at the thought. “I want that more than anything.”
Morgause smiled, “As you wish.”
---
Morgana went back to her chambers, wondering how it was possible that she had slept so well. She hadn’t had a single nightmare, only pleasant dreams of happier days when she and Arthur were young. It seemed bizarre that the nightmares would vanish this way, the only other restful night she could recall was when she had stayed in Arthur’s bed.
As she entered her room, she noticed something out of place. There was a silver and gold bracelet on the armoire by her bed. She picked it up, recognizing it as the bracelet that Morgause had worn. Morgause had said it would help her sleep; perhaps this was the cause of her restful night.
For a moment, Morgana contemplated wearing the bracelet, but then she remembered that Arthur was still away on his challenge set by Morgause. The thought left an unpleasant taste in her mouth, and she threw the bracelet into a drawer.
---
As night fell, Morgause prepared an altar with candles for her spell.
Arthur and Merlin waited impatiently. Merlin was uneasy, but Arthur was too eager to be worried. His fear of magic had all but disappeared now that he knew of Morgana’s powers, and he was willing to trust Morgause.
As the spell started, time seemed to slow, and Merlin watched from a distance as Arthur’s mother suddenly appeared from the mist.
Arthur opened his eyes to the sound of his mother calling his name, the sound something so comforting and warm.
Merlin observed as they embraced, and tried not to eavesdrop as Arthur discussed his guilt over his mother’s death. However, he eventually heard something that forced him to pay attention. Arthur’s mother was explaining that Uther was to blame for her death, not Arthur. She mentioned Nimueh and Merlin could no longer pretend not to hear.
“You were born of magic,” Ygraine whispered.
Arthur shook his head and brokenly murmured, “It’s not true.”
“I’m sorry Arthur; your father has deceived you as he deceived me. To create a life, a life must be taken, your father knew that!”
“No,” Arthur cried.
“He sacrificed my life so the Pendragon dynasty could continue. It makes you no less my son, nor me any less proud of you. Now I see you, I would’ve given my life willingly,” she continued.
Tears slowly trickled down Arthur’s cheeks and he closed his eyes.
“Do not let this knowledge change you,” Ygriane pleaded.
Arthur shook his head, keeping his eyes shut against the pain. As he opened them, he noticed his mother was gone.
---
Morgana stared out the window for hours, waiting for Arthur’s return. She finally saw the two figures riding in that she was waiting for, and she smiled when she found them both unharmed. However, as Arthur drew his sword and angrily stormed into the castle, she knew something was wrong.
Only minutes later, she found Merlin at her door, panting and looking terrified. “You have to come with me.” He grabbed Morgana’s hand and pulled her out of her room, dragging her through the corridors.
As they reached the Great Hall, Morgana finally managed to ask, “Merlin, what is going on?”
“You have to stop him. You’re the only one who can get through to him,” he begged.
She was lost, and spluttered, “What?”
“Arthur. He’s going to try and kill the king.”
Morgana immediately paled, but didn’t hesitate to act. She promptly told Leon to step aside and entered the Great Hall to find Arthur and Uther locked in a violent swordfight.
Arthur knocked Uther’s sword away and shoved his father down into a chair, holding his sword threateningly over Uther’s heart.
Morgana ran forward, screaming, “Arthur! No!”
Arthur couldn’t bear to look at her, but he managed to say, “Morgana, get out of here.”
She stood her ground, softly replying, “No. I won’t leave you.”
“You don’t understand. My mother is dead because of him!” he yelled.
The news came as a shock, but she couldn’t let it show. She had to be strong for him. “Arthur, please, you cannot do this.”
"Listen to her, Arthur," Uther reasoned. "You know I wouldn't--" His attempt was silenced by a withering glare from Morgana.
Arthur still held his sword against his father’s heart, not able to let this go. “He is a hypocrite, Morgana! After everything he has done, do you truly believe he deserves to live? He executes those who use magic, and yet he has used it himself!” His voice was trembling from the force of his anger. “He almost killed you, Morgana!”
The weight of Arthur’s grief was almost too much to bear, and Morgana felt herself crying. “I know, Arthur. But this is not the way. If you do this, you are no better than him!”
He stared down his father, his hatred suddenly blinding. “He has caused so much suffering and pain. I will put an end to that.”
Morgana agreed, “You’re right, Arthur, you will. But not like this.” She found herself moving closer to Arthur. “Uther will have to pay for his sins someday, but if you kill him now, it will destroy you.”
Arthur wavered, but still did not take down his sword. “Morgana, please.”
She held in her tears and forcefully demanded, “No.” She was filled up with determination, knowing where this path would lead. “I will not lose you, Arthur. Do not let him take you away from me.” Taking another step forward, she laid her hand on his shoulder. “Hasn’t he taken enough already?”
Arthur could feel her hand against his neck and he reluctantly lowered his sword. He was still shaking from the strength of his emotions, and he looked down at his father once more. “From this day forward, I am no longer your son.”
"Arthur..." Uther started, unable to find the words to soothe his furious son.
Morgana took a hold of Arthur's hand and pulled him away from his father. She led him out of the hall, leaving Uther behind.
Arthur seemed almost comatose, and Morgana had to take each step carefully as she walked him to his chambers. Once they were there, she waited a moment to see if he would speak to her. At his silence, she lowered him down to sit on his bed and took his sword out of his limp fingers. She carefully set it down and then began to remove his armor piece by piece. She didn’t say anything, knowing that he would talk to her when he was ready.
As Morgana helped him remove his chainmail over his head, he spoke. It was nearly inaudible, but he told her in a small, broken voice, “I was born of magic.”
She faltered in her movements, but gave him a small smile, trying to help. “Now we have something in common.”
He nodded stiffly, still barely functioning.
Morgana finished up taking off all his armor and set it on a table before coming to kneel in front of him. She placed two fingers under his chin and tilted his face up until he met her eyes. “This doesn’t change who you are, Arthur.” She dropped her hand from his face, trying not to let his expression break her heart. “Do you want me to leave?”
He grabbed her hand as it was falling from his face, holding it tightly in his grasp. His lifeless eyes suddenly lit with a fire, and he slipped a hand behind her head, pulling her in closer. Staring into her green eyes from only an inch away, he whispered, “Never,” before crashing his mouth to hers in a passionate kiss.
He absolutely stole her breath away and Morgana remained frozen for a second before she began to respond. His kiss was demanding and greedy, full of pain and desire, and nothing like she had imagined her first kiss with Arthur would be. Yet, despite that, she couldn’t pull away.
Arthur eagerly sucked at her lips, his fingers threading through her hair as he held her against him. He felt like he was drowning, and she was his safe harbor. His tongue probed against her lips, and he breathed a sigh of contentment into her mouth as they parted and allowed him access.
Morgana’s head was swimming from the new sensations. Her mind was going blank and leaving her with nothing but lust to fill her up. The insistent pressure upon her lips was delicious, and she greedily took everything he was offering her.
Arthur slowly stood from the bed, bringing her up with him and pulling her flush against his body.
Morgana moaned at the feeling of his warmth as it drew her in, and she suddenly felt as though she never wanted to be anywhere but in his arms.
Arthur’s kisses grew deeper and more forceful, and he spun them around, lowering Morgana to the bed under him. He braced his weight above her on the bed as he broke free from her lips to kiss a path down her neck.
She gasped at the feeling, but soon crashed back to earth as she felt the wetness of tears on her skin. Releasing her death grip on his hair, she smoothed her fingers over his neck.
A sob abruptly racked through his body and he cried out against her skin. His kisses slowed and he collapsed on top of her, unable to hold in his despair any longer.
Morgana soothingly brushed her fingers through his hair, murmuring unintelligible words of comfort. She pulled herself up the bed and propped her back against the pillows, dragging Arthur with her. Fighting her own tears, she cradled his head against her stomach as he continued to cry.
They both laid there until exhaustion set in and Arthur fell asleep. Morgana reached down and tugged a blanket over them both, refusing to leave his side until morning.
Next Chapter
Fandom: Merlin
Characters/Pairings: Arthur/Morgana, any and all other characters
Word Count: 5,780
Rating: PG-13
Disclaimer: I don't own any of this stuff, because if I did ArMor would be canon.
Spoilers: Vague spoilers for all of Merlin series 2
Summary: Perhaps there was another way, if only it had gone a little different at the start. How it should've been, aka Series 2 the proper way.
Author's Notes: Ever write something and decide that you really hate the way you took the story, but don't want to go back and redo it? Yeah, that was me with this chapter. I only hope that the ending makes up for the rest of the chapter.
Previous Chapters: Prologue, Chapter 1, Chapter 2, Chapter 3, Chapter 4, Chapter 5
---
Even though Arthur had acknowledged that Morgana had magic, and had sworn to protect her with his life, he was still having a hard time adjusting. It was difficult, having to see past all the prejudice his father had instilled in him and to just see Morgana as Morgana. He truly was trying, but it was taking some time.
Morgana had noticed the change, and she originally gave Arthur his space to let him process. However, it had been over a week, and patience wasn’t her strong suit when it came to him. So eventually she decided that enough was enough. She was going to prove to him that she was the same girl he’d always known, and she knew the perfect way.
She found Arthur down on the training grounds. He had just finished training with a group of new recruits who were soon to be knighted. A smile quirked up on the edge of her lips as she watched him swing his sword through the air with ease. He truly was magnificent to watch, not that she’d ever tell him that.
Merlin sensed her presence first and turned to greet her. His words died on his tongue as soon as he saw her, though. She was dressed in her chainmail and breeches, with a sword hanging low off her belt. He dropped his head into his hands, mumbling to himself, “Oh, no.”
Morgana smiled cheerfully as she approached the pair. “Hello, boys.”
Arthur finally registered that she was there and turned to face her. “Morgana.”
His tone lacked the normal warmth and excitement it usually held when he saw her and her face fell slightly as a result. Pushing her feelings down, she continued with her plan. “You know, I figured practicing with the new knights must have been a bit boring. They’re clearly no match for you yet. I thought perhaps you’d want a real workout before bed.”
Merlin nearly choked on his own saliva.
Rolling her eyes, Morgana unsheathed her sword. “I meant sword practice, Merlin.” Her gaze turned to Arthur, her smile back in place. “You know I’m better than those boys.”
He nodded in agreement, but he didn’t return her smile. “Surely you are, but I think I’ve had enough for today.”
She resisted the urge to stamp her foot like a child. Arthur could be so damn stubborn. Pushing through the annoyance, she goaded, “Afraid of a real challenge, Arthur?”
Arthur huffed, clearly not impressed by her accusation. “We all know that I’d beat you, Morgana, and I don’t really need the lecture from father today about hurting your delicate feelings.”
She thrust out her sword, holding it level with Arthur’s face. “If you’re so sure, then prove it.”
He shook his head. “Morgana…”
She grinned at him and reached out with her free arm to shove at his shoulder. “Come on. It’ll be fun.”
Sighing, he gave in. “Fine, but when I win you can’t go griping about it.”
Pleased with herself, she dropped her sword back to her waist. “Deal.”
They both made their way across the field to an open area and prepared to spar. Merlin brought Arthur his sword and both parties dropped into a fighting stance.
Morgana’s long braid whipped around her shoulders as she turned to Merlin and ordered, “Call it.”
Merlin was hesitant, but did as he was told. He called out, “Begin.”
Arthur moved forward first, striking in an attack move. Morgana easily parried the blow, fighting back with equal fervor, and perhaps even more determination. The two continued to attack and defend, both clearly skilled with a sword.
Arthur swung his sword in a low arc and caused Morgana to jump back from the blade as it neared her stomach. She glared at him before returning the favor with a downward slice of her sword that caused him to stumble as he blocked the blow.
The two carried on for a while like that, until finally Arthur caught Morgana’s sword on an upswing and knocked it out of her grasp.
The sword clattered to the ground several feet away from her and Arthur smiled triumphantly. “See, I told-”
Before he could finish, Morgana flew at him, crashing into his body and shoving him firmly to the ground from the force. She fell over with him and sat on top of him, straddling his waist. Without even blinking, she pulled a knife out of her boot and held it to his throat.
Arthur was absolutely dumbstruck.
She threw her head back, unable to hold in her laughter. She settled some and smirked down at her opponent. “You were saying?”
Arthur finally stopped gaping like a fish and managed to frown at her, but it lacked the sternness it had held over the past few days. “You cheated.”
She shrugged. “No one said we were fighting fair.”
He grumbled, “You never fight fair.”
Cocking her head, she pushed her knife closer to his neck and asked, “Do you yield?”
“No.” He started to smile at that, refusing to let her have the satisfaction.
In the spirit of not fighting fair, she took it one step further. The smile that she wore was disconcerting, but before Arthur could do anything to stop her, she rocked her hips back against him and caused him to lose the ability to speak.
His reaction was immediate and he squeaked out, “I yield.”
Morgana rolled off of him, lying on her back in the dirt next to him. “You’re too easy, Arthur Pendragon.”
He huffed in annoyance. “I am never fighting you again.”
She burst into laughter, feeling some semblance of normalcy again.
Arthur turned his head to look at her and couldn’t help but smile at the sight. Her hair was jutting out at odd angles from her braid, and she had a smudge of dirt across her cheek. Her laughter was something so sweet and familiar that he found himself wondering how he ever could’ve doubted who she was. Wistfully, he murmured, “I’ve missed you.”
Tilting her head to look at him, her laughter stilled and she countered softly, “I never left, Arthur.”
His smile brightened. “Yeah, I’m getting that.”
Morgana chuckled, thankful that he had come to his senses. “Well, you always were a bit slow.”
“Hey!”
---
The next day, Morgana and Arthur stood in the great hall, watching as Uther knighted a group of Camelot’s newest protectors. Uther began to boast about Arthur’s abilities to the knights, which was making Arthur glow with pride. Morgana leaned back and smirked over at Arthur behind the king’s back, refusing to let his ego go completely unchecked.
The processions were abruptly brought to a halt as noises of a struggle could be heard outside the doors. Suddenly, a warrior dressed in full armor entered the room, strutting with the air of a victor. All of the new knights drew their swords, prepared to protect their king.
Morgana caught Arthur’s eye for a brief second, silently begging him to not get involved. She knew better, of course.
The mysterious visitor threw down the gauntlet expectantly, and as Morgana feared, Arthur bent down to pick it up.
“I accept your challenge.” He spoke with the eerie calmness of a true knight. “If I am to face you in combat, do me the courtesy of revealing your identity.”
Morgana watched intently as the intruder removed their helmet, revealing long golden locks and a beautiful face. Morgana sucked in a breath, as did the rest of the court.
The warrior woman spoke, “My name is Morgause.”
Arthur stared in awe, trying his best to remain stoic despite the strange situation.
An odd feeling washed over Morgana as she stared at the woman, and she could swear that she had met this Morgause somewhere before.
---
Uther had immediately enlisted Geoffrey of Monmouth’s help, and after a thorough search of the challenge rules, it was found that there was nothing to stop Morgause from issuing a challenge against Arthur.
Arthur accepted this and was still planning on fighting, since he was unwilling to look a coward in any way.
Once Morgana heard that the fight was still on, she went to see Arthur in his chambers. She found him at the window, staring out at Morgause as she fought in the courtyard. Until the challenge, Morgause was to stay in the castle, which was making Morgana uneasy.
Arthur could feel Morgana’s stare on his back, and he knew something was troubling her. “What is it, Morgana?”
She padded over to the window to stand next to him. “I know you won’t listen, but… I don’t think you should fight this woman.”
“And why is that?” He had yet to look away from the window.
“There’s something about her, Arthur. I don’t know what it is. I’m… I’m worried.”
Her statement made him turn away from the window. He saw that she was serious about this. “Was it one of your dreams?” He didn’t know everything about her magic, but he did know that her nightmares were often visions of things to come.
She shook her head. “No, just, a feeling.” She laughed at herself, “I know you don’t put much stock in my feelings, but I figured I should at least tell you.”
Arthur smiled softly at her, feeling a pang of guilt for his past behavior. She was only looking out for him. “I’ll see if I can convince her to withdraw. But that’s all I can do, Morgana.”
Nodding, Morgana accepted his decision. “Thank you.” She glanced down through the window before quietly leaving his chambers.
---
Despite Arthur following through on his promise, Morgause had not accepted his proposal to withdraw, and the fight was still to take place.
Morgana paced her room for what seemed like hours before the fight. She knew that Arthur was a skilled fighter, but she couldn’t shake the feeling in her stomach that something was going to go wrong.
As everyone poured into the arena to watch, Morgana slipped away from Uther’s side to go and see Arthur. She caught sight of him as he walked across the grounds and she tried her best to smile at him.
Arthur returned her smile as he moved past her, brushing his fingers against hers for the briefest of moments.
No one else noticed the private exchange, but the feeling of his touch immediately brightened Morgana’s mood.
Arthur stepped out into the arena and faced Morgause. Whispering to her, he implored, “This is your last chance to withdraw.”
Morgause said nothing.
Recognizing her unwillingness to back down, Arthur put on his helmet and prepared himself for the fight.
Morgana watched nervously from the stands as the fight began. Neither Arthur nor Morgause seemed to have the upper hand at the start, with both parties moving swiftly and delivering well-placed blows.
Arthur was fighting very well, and he eventually managed to knock Morgause’s sword from her hand. On his swing, he sliced a cut through her arm that managed to draw blood.
Morgana breathed a sigh of relief, hoping that the fight was over. Though she strangely didn’t want Morgause dead, she cared more for Arthur’s life and needed him to be victorious.
However, Arthur, being a gentleman, allowed Morgause to retrieve her sword and the fight continued. Morgause came at him with several vigorous attacks, but Arthur parried the blows and managed to get her up against the wall of the arena.
Morgana held her breath.
Arthur swung his sword, ready to make the killing blow, but Morgause spun out of the way. With Arthur’s back to her, she kicked out his knees, knocking him to the ground. Arthur’s helmet flew off as his head collided with the earth, and he looked up at his opponent from where he lay on his back. He tried to sit up, but Morgause’s sword was suddenly at his chest, pushing him further into the dirt.
From where she sat, Morgana could only see the back of Arthur’s head and the sword pressing down above his heart. She desperately wanted to jump in the arena and save him, but she forced herself to stay seated. Instead, she gripped the arms of her chair so violently that she feared they would break.
Morgause took off her helmet as she stared down at her fallen opponent. “Make me a promise,” she requested, “and I will spare your life.”
“What is it you ask?”
“Come to me three days hence, and accept the challenge I set here.” She continued to press down with her sword, waiting for his response.
“And the nature of this challenge?” Arthur asked.
“That is for me to decide,” she explained. “Do I have your word that you will accept? No matter what.”
Arthur had no choice but agree, since her sword was at his chest. Though he feared he may regret it, he replied, “You have my word.”
At that, Morgause pulled away her sword and offered Arthur her hand. As he took it, she pulled him to his feet. Morgause turned to the king and bowed her head, excusing herself from the arena.
Morgana watched in amazement, her heart still in her throat. She suddenly had a sinking feeling that this was Morgause’s plan all along.
---
Morgana made her way to their guest’s chambers once she was sure Morgause had returned from her visit with Gaius. She was still wary of this stranger, but the woman had spared Arthur, and something about her was so familiar, it was driving Morgana slightly mad.
She opened the door to Morgause’s chambers and slipped inside. As Morgause rounded a corner, Morgana noticed her startled expression and felt the need to be courteous. “I didn’t mean to intrude. I wanted to introduce myself. I’m the Lady Morgana.”
Morgause smiled at her. “I know who you are.”
There was a bit of awkward silence as Morgause studied Morgana carefully, so Morgana added, “You fought very well today. There are not many capable of defeating Arthur.”
Morgause hummed in agreement. “Yes, he is quite a skilled warrior.”
Gathering up her courage, Morgana questioned, “This challenge of yours, are you planning to harm him?”
The blonde cocked her head, intrigued by the query. “I see that the thought troubles you. But I assure you, I mean no harm to the prince. I believe I demonstrated that today, did I not?”
Morgana nodded, still feeling wary. She couldn’t shake the feeling that she knew this woman, and she found the words tumbling out of her mouth. “Could it be that we’ve met somewhere before?”
Morgause shook her head, negating the question. “I’m glad we’ve met now,” she continued.
As Morgause moved, Morgana caught sight of her intricate bracelet, and yet again the familiarity swept over her, though she doubted she had ever seen that actual bracelet before. “That’s a beautiful bracelet,” she murmured.
Morgause looked down at the bracelet on her wrist before addressing Morgana. “It was a gift, from my mother.” She assessed Morgana once more, noticing the slight circles under her eyes. “Perhaps you should take it.” Before Morgana could protest, Morgause went on, “You look as though you haven’t been sleeping.”
Morgana cautiously nodded in response.
“This is a healing bracelet. I would like you to have it, it will help you sleep.”
Shaking her head, Morgana backed away a step. “I couldn’t.” Quickly, she added, “You must be tired, I should let you rest.” She exited the room, only looking back once before shutting the door.
---
After the fight, Merlin couldn’t seem to stop cracking jokes at Arthur’s expense. Arthur continually protested that he was hindered because Morgause was a woman, but Merlin didn’t buy it.
“You didn’t look hindered.”
“Merlin,” Arthur growled.
Ignoring the threat, Merlin continued, “Not when you were fighting Morgana either. I mean, losing to two women in one week? I think you might be slipping.”
“MERLIN!”
Morgana could hear the scream from down the hall, and she chuckled to herself as she entered Arthur’s chambers unannounced. “Oh Arthur, don’t be so hard on Merlin.”
Arthur grumbled something unpleasant under his breath, fed up with the both of them.
Morgana smiled over at Merlin knowingly before speaking to Arthur. “Don’t worry; I’m not here to give you a hard time.”
“Then why are you here?” Arthur asked, tempering his anger for Morgana’s sake.
Sighing, she sat down in one of Arthur’s dinner chairs. “Are you planning on going through with this challenge?”
“I gave her my word.”
She had known his answer before he even spoke. “I know.” She ducked her head, staring at the table.
Arthur could tell she was worried, so he went and sat down in the chair across from her. He bent forward over the table to speak to her. “I’ll be fine, Morgana. Merlin’s coming with, and you know how helpful he can be.”
Morgana knew he was being sarcastic, but it actually did make her feel better. She suddenly was struck with an idea, and looked up from the table to meet Arthur’s eyes. “Take me with you as well.”
Arthur shook his head and leaned back away from the table to rest against his chair. “No, it’s too dangerous.”
Her eyes narrowed. “You just said it would be fine.”
He shrugged. “Even still, you’re not coming, Morgana.”
“I could help! You know I could. And besides, then I wouldn’t have to sit here worrying, now would I?”
He knew that she wanted to protect him, but he couldn’t allow her to do this. “It’s my challenge, Morgana, I have to go alone.”
Morgana countered, “Merlin’s going.”
Arthur waved it off. “Merlin doesn’t count.”
Merlin scoffed in the background.
Morgana wasn’t giving up that easily, though. “I’m going to find a way to come, so either you agree or I’ll sneak out and follow you.”
He let out a sigh of exasperation. “Father hasn’t even agreed to let me go yet, Morgana.”
She grinned. “Then we’ll both sneak out.”
Dropping his head down to let it rest on the table, he mumbled, “You’re going to be the death of me, Morgana.”
---
Morgause left the next morning, after leaving a gift for Morgana in her chambers. The blonde had snuck in and whispered an enchantment over the bracelet before leaving it on Morgana’s armoire.
Morgana had yet to notice the trinket, since she had been up all night with Merlin in Gaius’s chambers. The pair discussed their plans for their journey with Arthur, and practiced protection spells as a precaution.
Merlin seemed exhausted by the next day, but Morgana didn’t lament the lack of sleep, since it would only bring more nightmares. Her work with Merlin had helped, as did her days with Arthur, but the nightmares were still a constant presence in her life. At the moment, the most pressing matter was helping Arthur, however, so she ignored her own problems.
As Morgause had departed, she mentioned to Arthur that she had known his mother, which only spurred his desire to fulfill her request even more. Uther had strictly forbidden it, throwing around claims of Morgause being a possible sorceress as his excuse. Due to his stubborn nature, Arthur had ignored his father’s protests and had Merlin prepare to secretly leave the castle before dawn.
That night, Merlin stole some supplies and a stretch of rope to aid in their escape. As he entered Arthur’s chambers in the early morning hours, he noticed that a certain someone was missing. “Where’s Morgana?”
Arthur shrugged his shoulders. “I guess she came to her senses.”
They both knew that was highly unlikely, and Merlin was concerned. “She was going to try and get some rest before our journey; maybe we should go wake her up.”
“Merlin, Morgana can barely sleep for an hour without waking.” He slung the bag of supplies over his shoulder. “I’m sure she’d be here if she wanted to be.”
Merlin began to protest, but Arthur interrupted before he could start.
“Look, we need to be away from the city before the sun comes up, we don’t have time for this. Morgana is much safer here in her bed than out there with us, so will you please hurry up?”
Merlin conceded his point and helped Arthur out of the window. After both of them had landed on their faces, they cleaned themselves off and made their way to the stables. They led their horses out to the edge of the grounds before mounting and starting on their way.
---
When Guinevere came into Morgana’s chambers, she was surprised to find her mistress fast asleep. The sun had been up for hours, and Morgana normally would’ve woken long ago. She went over to the bed and called, “Morgana?”
Morgana didn’t so much as flinch, so Gwen started to lightly shake her shoulder. “Morgana.” When she still received no response, she become more insistent and shook Morgana harder. “Morgana!”
Finally Morgana opened her eyes, surveying her surroundings. It took her a second, but she sprung up into a sitting position, asking, “What time is it?”
“It’s nearly midday.”
Morgana quickly got out of bed, throwing on her shoes and a dress robe.
“Morgana?” Gwen questioned, but she was ignored.
Morgana ran out of her chambers and down the hall until she reached Arthur’s door. She noticed the guards there and smiled sweetly at them. “I’m just here to see the prince.”
The guards stepped aside and let her in the room. As soon as she was inside she knew she was too late. Arthur’s bed was empty and his window open. She noticed that his sword was missing as well. Knowing that there was no way she could catch them, she lowered herself onto Arthur’s bed and sulked. Hopefully Merlin would look out for Arthur, but she feared that this challenge would have devastating consequences.
---
It took Arthur and Merlin nearly a whole days ride to reach Morgause’s destination. The horse had done most of the navigating and did not stop to rest often, so both Arthur and Merlin were confused and tired by the journey’s end.
As they rode under a waterfall, Merlin questioned, “Are you sure about this, Arthur?”
“If she knows anything about my mother, Merlin, I have to know.”
Merlin nodded, understanding the desire to know about one’s parent. He continued to ride alongside Arthur until they reached what looked like an abandoned castle.
They dismounted their horses and walked up the stone steps to an enclosed courtyard. There was an axe sticking out of a block of wood, but otherwise there was nothing there.
Arthur called out, “Now what?”
Just as Merlin opened his mouth to suggest that they leave, Morgause appeared at the top of a staircase in a glittering red gown.
“You kept your promise.” She descended the stairs and walked towards Arthur.
“What is the nature of the challenge you wish to set me?” Arthur asked.
Morgause replied, “Place your head on the block.” She lifted up the axe to clear a space for his head. At Arthur’s hesitation, she continued, “You gave me your word.”
As Arthur bent down to place his head on the block, Merlin yelled, “What are you doing? I won’t let you do this!” His heart was pounding; it couldn’t possibly end this way. Desperately, he tried, “Think about Morgana! You can’t just leave her!”
Arthur shut his eyes, trying to block out the painful images of Morgana that crossed through his mind. He ground out, “Stay out of this, Merlin.”
Morgause lifted up the axe, preparing to swing it at Arthur’s exposed neck. As she lifted it, Merlin struggled to stay still, but before he could try and stop her, she set the axe down on the ground. She walked away from the block, explaining, “You have shown that you are truly a man of your word, Arthur Pendragon.”
Arthur jumped up off of the ground, confused and aggravated.
Morgause turned back to look at him. “And for that I will grant you one wish. Tell me what it is that your heart most desires.”
It was surprising that Morgana’s face was the first he thought of before he remembered his true purpose for coming here. “You said you knew my mother. Tell me all that you know about her.”
“Perhaps you would like to see her.”
Arthur’s heart lurched at the thought. “I want that more than anything.”
Morgause smiled, “As you wish.”
---
Morgana went back to her chambers, wondering how it was possible that she had slept so well. She hadn’t had a single nightmare, only pleasant dreams of happier days when she and Arthur were young. It seemed bizarre that the nightmares would vanish this way, the only other restful night she could recall was when she had stayed in Arthur’s bed.
As she entered her room, she noticed something out of place. There was a silver and gold bracelet on the armoire by her bed. She picked it up, recognizing it as the bracelet that Morgause had worn. Morgause had said it would help her sleep; perhaps this was the cause of her restful night.
For a moment, Morgana contemplated wearing the bracelet, but then she remembered that Arthur was still away on his challenge set by Morgause. The thought left an unpleasant taste in her mouth, and she threw the bracelet into a drawer.
---
As night fell, Morgause prepared an altar with candles for her spell.
Arthur and Merlin waited impatiently. Merlin was uneasy, but Arthur was too eager to be worried. His fear of magic had all but disappeared now that he knew of Morgana’s powers, and he was willing to trust Morgause.
As the spell started, time seemed to slow, and Merlin watched from a distance as Arthur’s mother suddenly appeared from the mist.
Arthur opened his eyes to the sound of his mother calling his name, the sound something so comforting and warm.
Merlin observed as they embraced, and tried not to eavesdrop as Arthur discussed his guilt over his mother’s death. However, he eventually heard something that forced him to pay attention. Arthur’s mother was explaining that Uther was to blame for her death, not Arthur. She mentioned Nimueh and Merlin could no longer pretend not to hear.
“You were born of magic,” Ygraine whispered.
Arthur shook his head and brokenly murmured, “It’s not true.”
“I’m sorry Arthur; your father has deceived you as he deceived me. To create a life, a life must be taken, your father knew that!”
“No,” Arthur cried.
“He sacrificed my life so the Pendragon dynasty could continue. It makes you no less my son, nor me any less proud of you. Now I see you, I would’ve given my life willingly,” she continued.
Tears slowly trickled down Arthur’s cheeks and he closed his eyes.
“Do not let this knowledge change you,” Ygriane pleaded.
Arthur shook his head, keeping his eyes shut against the pain. As he opened them, he noticed his mother was gone.
---
Morgana stared out the window for hours, waiting for Arthur’s return. She finally saw the two figures riding in that she was waiting for, and she smiled when she found them both unharmed. However, as Arthur drew his sword and angrily stormed into the castle, she knew something was wrong.
Only minutes later, she found Merlin at her door, panting and looking terrified. “You have to come with me.” He grabbed Morgana’s hand and pulled her out of her room, dragging her through the corridors.
As they reached the Great Hall, Morgana finally managed to ask, “Merlin, what is going on?”
“You have to stop him. You’re the only one who can get through to him,” he begged.
She was lost, and spluttered, “What?”
“Arthur. He’s going to try and kill the king.”
Morgana immediately paled, but didn’t hesitate to act. She promptly told Leon to step aside and entered the Great Hall to find Arthur and Uther locked in a violent swordfight.
Arthur knocked Uther’s sword away and shoved his father down into a chair, holding his sword threateningly over Uther’s heart.
Morgana ran forward, screaming, “Arthur! No!”
Arthur couldn’t bear to look at her, but he managed to say, “Morgana, get out of here.”
She stood her ground, softly replying, “No. I won’t leave you.”
“You don’t understand. My mother is dead because of him!” he yelled.
The news came as a shock, but she couldn’t let it show. She had to be strong for him. “Arthur, please, you cannot do this.”
"Listen to her, Arthur," Uther reasoned. "You know I wouldn't--" His attempt was silenced by a withering glare from Morgana.
Arthur still held his sword against his father’s heart, not able to let this go. “He is a hypocrite, Morgana! After everything he has done, do you truly believe he deserves to live? He executes those who use magic, and yet he has used it himself!” His voice was trembling from the force of his anger. “He almost killed you, Morgana!”
The weight of Arthur’s grief was almost too much to bear, and Morgana felt herself crying. “I know, Arthur. But this is not the way. If you do this, you are no better than him!”
He stared down his father, his hatred suddenly blinding. “He has caused so much suffering and pain. I will put an end to that.”
Morgana agreed, “You’re right, Arthur, you will. But not like this.” She found herself moving closer to Arthur. “Uther will have to pay for his sins someday, but if you kill him now, it will destroy you.”
Arthur wavered, but still did not take down his sword. “Morgana, please.”
She held in her tears and forcefully demanded, “No.” She was filled up with determination, knowing where this path would lead. “I will not lose you, Arthur. Do not let him take you away from me.” Taking another step forward, she laid her hand on his shoulder. “Hasn’t he taken enough already?”
Arthur could feel her hand against his neck and he reluctantly lowered his sword. He was still shaking from the strength of his emotions, and he looked down at his father once more. “From this day forward, I am no longer your son.”
"Arthur..." Uther started, unable to find the words to soothe his furious son.
Morgana took a hold of Arthur's hand and pulled him away from his father. She led him out of the hall, leaving Uther behind.
Arthur seemed almost comatose, and Morgana had to take each step carefully as she walked him to his chambers. Once they were there, she waited a moment to see if he would speak to her. At his silence, she lowered him down to sit on his bed and took his sword out of his limp fingers. She carefully set it down and then began to remove his armor piece by piece. She didn’t say anything, knowing that he would talk to her when he was ready.
As Morgana helped him remove his chainmail over his head, he spoke. It was nearly inaudible, but he told her in a small, broken voice, “I was born of magic.”
She faltered in her movements, but gave him a small smile, trying to help. “Now we have something in common.”
He nodded stiffly, still barely functioning.
Morgana finished up taking off all his armor and set it on a table before coming to kneel in front of him. She placed two fingers under his chin and tilted his face up until he met her eyes. “This doesn’t change who you are, Arthur.” She dropped her hand from his face, trying not to let his expression break her heart. “Do you want me to leave?”
He grabbed her hand as it was falling from his face, holding it tightly in his grasp. His lifeless eyes suddenly lit with a fire, and he slipped a hand behind her head, pulling her in closer. Staring into her green eyes from only an inch away, he whispered, “Never,” before crashing his mouth to hers in a passionate kiss.
He absolutely stole her breath away and Morgana remained frozen for a second before she began to respond. His kiss was demanding and greedy, full of pain and desire, and nothing like she had imagined her first kiss with Arthur would be. Yet, despite that, she couldn’t pull away.
Arthur eagerly sucked at her lips, his fingers threading through her hair as he held her against him. He felt like he was drowning, and she was his safe harbor. His tongue probed against her lips, and he breathed a sigh of contentment into her mouth as they parted and allowed him access.
Morgana’s head was swimming from the new sensations. Her mind was going blank and leaving her with nothing but lust to fill her up. The insistent pressure upon her lips was delicious, and she greedily took everything he was offering her.
Arthur slowly stood from the bed, bringing her up with him and pulling her flush against his body.
Morgana moaned at the feeling of his warmth as it drew her in, and she suddenly felt as though she never wanted to be anywhere but in his arms.
Arthur’s kisses grew deeper and more forceful, and he spun them around, lowering Morgana to the bed under him. He braced his weight above her on the bed as he broke free from her lips to kiss a path down her neck.
She gasped at the feeling, but soon crashed back to earth as she felt the wetness of tears on her skin. Releasing her death grip on his hair, she smoothed her fingers over his neck.
A sob abruptly racked through his body and he cried out against her skin. His kisses slowed and he collapsed on top of her, unable to hold in his despair any longer.
Morgana soothingly brushed her fingers through his hair, murmuring unintelligible words of comfort. She pulled herself up the bed and propped her back against the pillows, dragging Arthur with her. Fighting her own tears, she cradled his head against her stomach as he continued to cry.
They both laid there until exhaustion set in and Arthur fell asleep. Morgana reached down and tugged a blanket over them both, refusing to leave his side until morning.
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