Work Text:
~ LOVE OF MY LIFE ~
Artorius x Guinevere
__
During Morgana's seige and takeover of Camelot...
Guinevere’s first thought was that she was dead, but then she realized that she must not be as she didn’t even know if she could think such a thing if she were. And shortly after she realized that she was on soft downy sheets. Her eyes opened wide and she gasped, shocked as she realized that Morgana must have placed her here. She’d healed her too, for she knew the injuries she’d sustained during the battle should have been enough to kill her and yet, some part of Morgana must have cared enough about her not to do so.
She slipped out of the bed, not without looking around first and went to the window. The room was unfamiliar, but lavish and one look out the window told her it was high up in the castle and if she was to guess right, well guarded too. Morgana must have somehow known she was awake because she heard the door open and Gwen went to grab for something, only to find there wasn’t anything to attack the witch with. She knew that her once friend would do whatever she could to brainwash her and this time, Gwen pretended to play along. She relaxed and played on the doting friend.
Weeks later, the castle was being ambushed. Morgana paced in the chambers she’d placed her in, worrying at her bottom lip before she lashed out at her with magic. Gwen didn’t have a chance to defend herself before she had toppled on the floor, again. What Morgana was planning, she didn’t know. And she wouldn’t know until she woke up again, if she woke up.
All she did know, was that she woke up in the arms of Artorius. There was something going on in the throne room, but her vision was still blurry from the fall and confusion muddled her thoughts as she blinked her eyes to clear her gaze. Gwen smiled gently upon seeing that it was Artorius who she saw. She was pretty sure she heard Arthur’s voice too, which didn’t seem right as she knew he was dead, but Artorius was back and that was all that mattered.
“Artorius,” she finally spoke softly with fondness once she heard that Morgana had been captured. And then she spotted Arthur’s relieved face nearby. She would ask about his story later, for now, she welcomed the embrace she was given by the surly prince.
She’d been settled in another room, once much closer to Artorius’s. It was fairly well known that she’d had a past with Arthur, but her feelings for him had been misplaced and she’d leaned on Artorius for comfort when he’d died. He too had leaned to her and Guinevere had done her best to comfort the prince. Somehow in that, they’d grown fond of each other.
Someone entered her room and she perked up a little in bed. Gaius had insisted that she should rest, even though she felt like doing anything but. A pleased smile curled up Gwen’s mouth when she spotted one of the twins entering her room. The posture he held was enough to tell her that it was the older twin.
“Come sit, Artorius. You must be exhausted.” And he looked it too. She wondered why he hadn’t gone to his own chambers to rest, but chances were he wanted to check up on her. And after all that they’d been through, she could hardly blame him. “How’s your father?”
~~
They’ve reclaimed the castle. Taken back the lands and small holdings that made up the kingdom of Camelot. Uther Pendragon has been reinstated as the king, as well he should be. The people had their Champion returned to them from the wilds, standing shoulder-to-shoulder once more with his twin brother.
And Artorius has set foot again within the halls and towers of his home, from which he had been driven out by an army of undead soldiers that had nearly claimed his life.
All these achievements however, pale into insignificance when Artorius thinks about the woman who lies behind the door of the room before him. Guinevere. He had thought her dead. Killed by the merciless magic of a blasphemous witch. Morgana could not be related to him or Arthur. The thought made Artorius positively sick to think that magic had somehow crept into Pendragon veins…
No, they are a pure people. Sorcery has no place within their mighty house. Uther would never have allowed it. Artorius holds onto this thought tightly. Raising his hand to knock on the door of the servant’s quarters, the blond prince changes his mind half-way through the action; pushing his way gingerly into the repurposed chambers instead.
Guinevere appears to be awake, sitting up in bed and gazing at him fondly from the corner of the room. Artorius swallows. Instantly, all the rage and bluster brewing in his mind drains away. She is smiling at him patiently.
The elder twin finds himself rather bashfully smiling back. She is just… she is so special to him. Artorius has never been very good with his emotions. Worse in many ways than Arthur is, and that is saying something. Uther had simply made him thus; his crown prince had been brought up more cold and empty and impartial as part of his grooming. And yet, somehow, this daughter of a blacksmith, with her beguiling dark eyes and warm, empathetic nature had stirred something hitherto hidden in the arrogant prince’s chest.
She had brought the best parts of Artorius’ character to the surface.
Taking a few steps forward, the prince obeys her instruction without further hesitation, taking a seat on a chair beside her bed. Gwen is so patient, so kind as she watches him settle down beside her. She knows him. Far better perhaps than Artorius knows himself.
“I’ve… not slept well since the day I thought you lost to me.”
The crown prince’s brow furrows, his eyes lost for a moment in past grief. It had hurt, so much, to believe Gwen had been slain. The fury it had sparked had surprised even Artorius. For while he had hidden in the wilderness; as he had recovered in Arthur’s camp, surrounded by his knights - all that had kept Artorius going were thoughts of revenge against Morgana for taking the life of Gwen. Even that short while earlier, arguing with the witch held in the dungeons, the thought of murdering his half-sister had not truly disappeared.
But here, in her presence, the feelings were fading. Gwen is soothing to Artorius’ very soul.
“I wasn’t going to leave you to wake here, all alone in this big room by yourself.” A shy smile tugs at the corner of the prince’s lips.
“You’re safe, Gwen. Your father Tom has been afforded his own rooms in the palace, not far from here. I’ve taken care of everything. You won’t ever be hurt, or threatened on account of me or my brother again.”
Taking her small hand in his, Artorius squeezes gently. There’s the shadow of guilt perhaps in his voice; for it occurs to the Crown Prince that Gwen had been specifically targeted by Morgana and her kind due to the obvious affections he held for her. It is common knowledge in the castle how Artorius has doted on the serving girl; ever since that day when they sat together in the royal box on the castle grounds, watching Arthur fight in the jousting competition. The conversations between prince and maidservant had grown evermore playful and introspective as the weeks and months went on. Gwen did not and had never worshiped the ground Artorius walked on. Instead, she spoke to him as an equal.
She spoke to the real him, that small, frightened little boy that so desperately wanted a friend.
Her overtures towards Artorius had not gone down well with Uther however.
“My father is well.” Artorius sighs quietly. “He is taking his rest and completing most of his reports in his room this evening. I’ve been doing more of the filing in for him at the council meetings.” He nods encouragingly.
“The feeling within Camelot is changing. The townsfolk are returning from the villages to live once more in their homes within the city. They're bringing flowers, Gwen. Little blue forget-me-nots like the ones you used to give me… they’re leaving them against the palace walls as if to thank my brother and I for returning the city to better hands.”
Artorius looks down briefly, unable to contain himself at the quiet look on Guinevere’s face. He feels warm simply by being in her presence. But it is not lust that this woman stirs in him. Guinevere is too pure, too wholesome to excite the animal within the male. She touches on something far deeper than that.
“Guinevere… I am very, very happy that you are alive. You have no idea how I thought… how I dreaded to think you had been lost.”
The blond prince raises her hand to his lips, kissing her knuckles tenderly. “I could never forgive myself if anything bad happened to you.”
Later on, Artorius will join Arthur in his chambers to break bread and share in a light supper. For now, his time and attentions will be spent on Guinevere alone.
The angel of his dreams. The one and only true love of Artorius’ life.
~~
“I am so sorry that you had to go through that pain, Artorius,” Gwen spoke gently as she reached out, offering a hand to him should he wish to take it.
She had been worried sick when she knew that Artorius was not in the castle. She would have been worried if he was there too, but mostly she worried that she would never see him again. She had already lost one Pendragon, Guinevere had not been sure that her heart could handle losing another one that was even more dear to her. She should not love a Prince, Gwen knew that and yet she found herself loving him more and more each and every day.
Deep down she knew it was why Morgana had tried to use that fear of Gwen’s death against Artorius, to try to gain some control over him.
If they had not fallen for each other perhaps things might have happened differently. Perhaps they also wouldn’t have.
“I should hope not. You know I’d have been happy to go back home.”
If there was much of the small house left, which she doubted after all of the chaos in the town that Morgana and her army had caused. At least, she thought, her father was still alive. There had been a point when she’d nearly lost him and had it not been for two Princes stepping in to her aide, she might have lost her father forever. She owed Artorius and Arthur even to this day.
A soft sigh of relief escaped her mouth as she replied, “THANK YOU, Artorius. You have always done so much for me. You will be the type of King this kingdom needs, I know it.” Her words may seem treasonous to some, but they were words of gratitude if anything else. She trusted him with her heart, with her father and with Camelot more than she did anyone else.
Uther might have tried to raise him as a hard and emotionless man, but Guinevere knew that was not totally the case with him. She had pulled back some of those layers in their time together while they’d thought that Arthur was gone.
She squeezed his hand in return, grateful for his comfort and his company. Though she did fully believe in him, she also saw him as the man he was, normal and human in all of those ways too and would always treat him as such. Just as she knew he would not treat her any differently either. Well, at least not while they were alone. And more recently things had changed there too in public, but they were careful around his father.
“Good. I am glad that Morgana did not harm him. I know how much he means to you and it would not bode well for the kingdom to lose him right now either. I am sure your father is grateful for your help there. You always did do well talking to the council. Far better, I think than anyone else I know could.” And probably even better than Arthur.
Sometimes she was teased by a few friends, namely Merlin that she would be Queen one day. She hoped to see him soon too, she had missed him in his time away.
At the mention of the forget-me-nots, Gwen’s mouth curled up into another smile as she sat up some more, moving her legs so that she could shift over and sit nearer to him.
“The people are grateful. They know that the kingdom is back in good hands again. You will have to take me to see what they have done. Not now though, you will get some rest this evening. And don’t give me a look, Gaius will likely give you something to rest if you don’t.” Anyone else would not have spoken to him in such a way, not even one of his nannies when he’d been younger. Gwen knew that she overstepped, but if it bothered the Prince, he did not say so. In fact, she was certain that part of him must like it.
The kisses to her knuckles had the woman blushing a bit and she bit the inside of her cheek as she tried to stop herself from saying something foolish. Though she was grown, Artorius somehow made her feel like she was a teenager all over again and she knew it had nothing to do with the fact that he was a Prince. If anything, it was just because he was simply him; sweet and kind when he wanted to be and a caring soul. Guinevere knew that Artorius was not as surly as he pretended to be.
“You must not worry about me so, Artorius. I am fine now and I will continue to be. Even more so since you insist on myself and my father to have these lavish chambers. Honestly, I don’t even know what I’ll do with all of this space. But I am grateful that you are here, that you are safe. And that we are here together.” Moving closer, Gwen pressed a tender kiss to his cheek.
“I knew you’d make it back,” she whispered to him. “Thank you for coming home to me.”
They spent more time together that evening. Gwen asked about Arthur and she learned the whole story from Artorius. She asked after Merlin as well, whom she gathered might have gotten closer to Arthur in their time alone if what Artorius’s comments were anything to go by. She couldn’t quite tell if he approved or not, but she knew that he would not do anything to make his brother unhappy. And Gwen could not help but think it was about time.
“Go, get some rest. And I won’t take no for an answer.”
This time, Gwen had kissed him softly on the mouth. She had to admit that she had been waiting to do that, but the wait had been well worth it. When Artorius finally left, she watched him go with a soft sigh.
Tomorrow she would get out of this bed. Tomorrow she would help rebuild the castle and check on people in the lower town. In many ways, Gwen knew that she already acted as a Queen might act, but she wasn’t even sure if she entirely wished to be one. She did know that she wished to make sure that the Crown Prince was happy. She wanted to be at his side so long as he wanted her there. Only time would tell what happened, time and patience.
****
2 days later
****
The loud sound of leather boots thud across the floor.
Flanked by his guards, the new King of Camelot takes a winding staircase, retracing a well-worn path as he makes his way though the palace. His home. His childhood place of sanctuary. His adolescent hellhole and prison.
But upon Artorius’ head now rests a crown, and thus
- Camelot is now his domain.
Since his brief and hastened coronation following the unceremonious removal of Uther from power, Artorius had moved quickly to cement ties with the other nobles. A session within the royal throne room had been announced and each Lord and Lady owning land borrowed from the Crown came forth, knelt and kissed the King’s ring.
Arthur had stood by his side. And beside Arthur, stood Merlin.
Artorius tried not to think too much into all of it. His head felt heavier than even the Crown placed upon it. If he could but melt the golden object down and fashion two crowns with the metal, he would. More than anything, did Arthur’s twin brother desire for two Pendragons to rule. For there to be two Kings. In secret, if the rules wouldn’t allow for co-rulers. For of course, the twin brothers are identical. The resemblance is uncanny. None of the people would even think to question it, should a switch take place.
And each King, of course, would have his own consort.
Reaching the Lady Smith’s chambers (for this had been one of the King’s first acts to give Guinevere and her father Tom noble titles) Artorius knocks cautiously on the door.
Stepping back, the elder twin hears the pitter patter of feet from within and smiles slightly; imagining his love covered with a silken veil and looking whimsical as she floated around the room. A gentle sigh leaves his lips. How Artorius loved the blacksmith’s daughter. The way she spoke, the way she carried herself. She might have been born a peasant and a handmaid, but to Artorius Pendragon, Guinevere Smith had grown to become the reason for his existence; the very purpose of his kingdom of rule.
She would be his Queen. If she would still accept him. If she would still… want to be with a man that Uther had once called his favourite...
Artorius drops his head, a deep frown marring his forehead.
It… it sickened him, on a more basic level than one he could dare to examine. The crude jokes and laughter of the nobles as they toasted and congratulated their new young and handsome King, offering him the hands of many fine young girls as a potential wife… well, Artorius, of course, had turned them all down. Politely and with plenty of charm. For it was a clear dismissal; Artie had experience playing these games.
Artorius wished he hadn’t.
The door swings ponderously open.
~~
It was difficult not to succumb to her old duties from the moment Artorius granted her a new title. If anything, she still worked because it kept her mind off of all that she’d been through, of all that they’d all been through. So much had happened in the past few days.
There was a new King and Uther was hidden away.
None of them had to worry about him anymore, for she knew all the nobles and made themselves loyal to Artorius. How quickly they turned their backs, she thought. How much quicker would they turn on him as well? She hoped such a thing would now happen not that Morgana was deep below in the dungeons beneath then.
A part of her missed the woman she had been, even though she’d hurt her mentally. And she knew, because Arthur had told her, that he wished for Artorius to eventually allow her some small freedoms again. She could be King’s Ward once more, only this time loyal to Artorius and all that they stood for. Morgana might not follow that path easily, but for the sake of her old friend, she hoped that she would come back to them. She understood why Arthur had hope for her, just as he had hope for many in the kingdom. Arthur was too good for them all and it was obvious that he’d rubbed off on his twin.
There was a knock at her door and for a brief moment Guinevere held her breath. As much as Morgana liked to flaunt her powers and barge in, she had knocked, politely, more so than she had expected and the sound was something that now worried her she would be back for more torment. However, she found herself taking a deep breath and she stepped forward, glad that her father was not around to see her moment of weakness a moment ago before she opened the door.
Artorius stood there and he looked breathtakingly handsome as he always did in his royal red tunic and dark brown trousers. He was the very picture of poise and royalty and Gwen wondered if she would ever look similarly to him, she didn’t think she could, even with the title he had given her. A part of her knew that she deserved it, but also she worried that she didn’t. There was enough gossip from nobles to say they didn’t necessarily agree with Artorius’s changes, but they didn’t say anything to his face, which was probably better given his history.
“Artorius,” Gwen said with a smile as she stepped aside. “Please, come in. It’s just myself here right now, I’m afraid. If you wished to speak to my father he is not here.”
Though judging from the look in Artorius’s eyes, this was not about Tom. He had come there to see her and that familiar flutter inside began as she realized that she had such attention from the new King. Artorius could have absolutely anyone in the palace, in Camelot and the Five Kingdoms. And yet, somehow, he had chosen her. A once servant to the crown. Sometimes she wondered how such a thing had come to be and yet, she knew exactly how their story began.
Stepping toward him, Gwen found herself resting a hand gently on his bicep, a concerned expression in her gaze as she looked him over.
“What is it, Artorius?”
A lot had happened in the past few days, he had probably come to talk. She remembered how before he’d said they should be seen together, that a good King would not listen on the likes of nobles and such when the people already approve. That a good King should be happy and she agreed with him, yet she found herself still marveling at the fact that he still wanted her at all.
“You may speak with me if you wish. We are alone.”
Yes, as alone as they could be, even though people could pass by in the hallway at any given moment. Gwen had been caring for herself and her father these past few days, though she’d noticed Artorius had sent a servant their way, it had felt strange trying to find things for her to do when she knew exactly how to do them all already. It was something to get used to, just as it was to being Artorius’ Lady, whatever that really meant. She knew that he would lead her along in any way until she got used to it all.
~~
Artorius lowers his head.
The weight of a crown is heavy, because of the expectations that came with the role. For many it would be too much; for those who are mainly good would baulk at the decisions wearing a crown meant. Those who are mainly bad however, receiving the power such as a king could wield offered the sweetest of inglorious vanity trips to the ego.
The one who could balance the two could hopefully balance a nation. Artorius Pendragon knows, deep deep down… a Crown was never meant to be worn by one person.
Guinevere’s smile lights up the entire room as she opens her door to him. The King feels as though he were once again a Prince; nothing more than an over-serious child of Uther; made lighter and more care-free by the incessant cajoling of a teasing identical twin.
She was a peasant. She is now, (by Artorius’ word - although such a thing had already been proven by her actions) a noble lady. With the dresses and the attendant maids in her employ, the other ladies of the court were starting to recognise Guinevere as such. And soon enough, she would be his Queen.
If she wanted to be.
Artorius offer his love a short smile and a nod.
Entering her chambers, the blond royal looks around, admiring all the little things Guinevere has added to the room to make it her own space. Were there fine bronze and steel ornaments fashioned from the forge? Left-over fragments of unused metals repurposed and twisted into beautiful new forms of artwork? The room is large and otherwise full of wooden furniture bearing the markings of artisans long dead who’d furnished Camelot with their talent and legacies.
The King nods again, turning back round to face the noblewoman in full view. Guinevere radiates sincerity and unpretentious loyalty. And a little bit of delightful nerves is in her tone too.
She’s weak. She could never rule a kingdom with the authority and power as you. You are my favourite Artorius. Do not let me down. Remember what I taught you.
Artorius frowns a bit and looks down. Uther’s voice is in his head. For Uther’s son this is a permanent problem. But he will overcome it. He has to - to win his love.
“What is it, Artorius?”
Her hands on his bicep draw him out of his thoughts. A little smile plays in the the corner of his lips. Drawn into her dark eyes, he takes her hands in his, gentle and sure, although he knows he has the strength to crush her fine fingers if he so chose. Yet all men who pursued such a path were a disgrace to their sex.
“You may speak with me if you wish. We are alone.”
Artorius nods. It is a difficult thing to let go sometimes, even harder now in his position, but he does so… he can do so, with her.
“I was thinking… Guinevere. You remember, don’t you? Do you remember that time in the stands of the tournament ground? Arthur was swinging his sword around and being such an arrogant twit, as usual. Morgana couldn't keep her eyes off him. But you… you and I… we were talking about forget-me-nots.”
Taking her hands more confidently, the King raises both to his mouth, kissing her knuckles gently. The feel of her warm skin so close to his tongue he could taste her, leaves Artorius sighing gently as he releases her once more. Such thoughts were forbidden to entertain before a wedding night.
Artorius tells himself off.
He gazes upon his lady thoughtfully.
“I have seen how the return of my brother from the wilds has made you happy, Guinevere. I have seen how being in my presence around the other nobles has made you… uncomfortable. For both these reasons I have been slow to approach you with this question. I have not ever wanted you to feel like I was pushing you towards accepting a position that you did not feel ready to take on. I am…”
Artorius pauses. His expression has grown fixed. His breathing however has stopped. Artorius is holding his breath. He is hoping to be relieved of the agony of being denied.
“…I am able to cope with your decision, if it is to say no. I understand. I entirely understand. Wearing a Crown is a heavy responsibility and only a fool tips his head to one side and carelessly plays with the lives of thousands. I would never be a King like that, but I… I can’t do this on my own.”
Blinking rapidly, Uther’s son grits his teeth. The world is shifting around him, narrowing down to this single point in time between himself and the blacksmith’s daughter. Artorius does not get on his knees for Guinevere; not as he would do one day for Arthur.
Looking down at her, he faces all his fears in one, and asks;
“Would you marry me, Guinevere? If I asked it of you? As I am asking of you?”
~~
Gwen noted the way that Artorius looked around her room. She had left things about: pieces of armor that she had been helping her father make for the knights, swords that were almost finished too. She could not leave the work that she’d had before no matter much she might try to do so. She was who she was and she was sure that Artorius would love her no matter what, just as she did him.
He had been through more than the rest of them in the past few months. The castle taken over, him having been injured when he’d found his brother. She’d helped heal what remainder of wounds he’d had when he’d taken the throne, but even she knew that some wounds never fully healed. Not when they remained in the mind. She hoped that she could help him though, help him move on fro his past and step forward into the future.
He was already doing such a good job at that. He was changing things for the better and the people were happier than they’d been in years. They trusted Artorius far more than they ever had Uther and she could hardly blame them for feeling that way. Not when Uther was so temperamental about things. They’d had to walk on their tiptoes around him, but with Artorius on the throne, they wouldn’t have to do that anymore.
“How could I forget?” Gwen asked with a soft smile.
Her hands squeezed his own, softer than hers in ways they never would be, but stronger too.
“I think I had my eyes on you more than anything else, truth be told.”
There was still that bitterness about Morgana there from him, but she hoped that would change too. They could all do with a bit of good change for themselves. It would just take time.
“And you had some forget-me-nots sent to my home that evening, remember? They lasted far longer than I thought they would.”
Her breath hitched a little as he kissed her knuckles and it was so silly to act this way around the King. But who could blame her? She’d had the attention of the Prince, now turned King for some time now. Anyone could have gotten his attention, but somehow she had gotten it from him. Gwen wasn’t sure if it had started out as a jealousy thing, since she’d been seeing Arthur for a short period of time, but even if it had been, she was glad they’d both realized where their hearts really lied.
Arthur was not who she had wanted. He was a friend. But Artorius, he was exactly her type. Opposite in many ways, sure, but the saying was that opposites attracted, after all. And sometimes, she put him in his place and he listened. Why or how, she didn’t know, but at least she was helping change him too.
“I … Artorius. I am grateful for all that you have done, but it will take time to get used to it all.”
She bit on her lower lip and had to resist the urge to look away, embarrassed.
“But I would not change it for anything. My father has been happier, business has been booming. And we have been comfortable here in the castle with you.”
It was far more than anything they could have imagined. Their little home had turned into a bigger shoppe for her fathers blacksmithing business and many from the palace were going to him for swords now. They were better off than they had been in a long time. And she would do anything to keep it like that for them. Goodness, even her brother had come back to help with things, after he’d become one of Arthur’s knights, of course.
Decision? What decision?
And then there was that question, the question she’d thought she might hear him ask her, but had been a little unsure. However, she could not find herself to say no. Instead, she leaned up a little since he was taller than her and kissed him on the mouth, soft and tender like a caress. Yes, she thought. Of course I will marry you.
When the moment was over, Guinevere pulled back and smiled blindingly at her King.
“Yes, Artorius. Yes, I will marry you.”
She would be his Queen, she knew it. And her father and brother would be proud. She knew there’d already been whispers among the people and she’d tried to ignore them, but at least she knew they would like having her on the throne too.
“Does this mean these chambers will go to my father instead once we’re married?” Gwen asked, a teasing, playful tone in her voice. “You know, since I’ll be sharing with you. He’d be thrilled, honestly.”
Always thinking about others before herself, that was Guinevere Smith through and through. Deep down she knew she’d be good for the throne, but that didn’t mean she wasn’t nervous. Because she was incredibly nervous. She hoped that she didn’t end up letting the kingdom down.
Letting go of his hands, Gwen hugged him, letting him feel how grateful she was for all of this, how much she loved him. She didn’t know if she’d ever be able to get those words across, but this would have to do. Besides, Artorius could do with a few more hugs.
“Oh, we’ll have so much to plan,” Gwen said once she’d pulled back enough to look him in the face. She should let him go, but hadn’t done so yet.
“Are you … planning on telling everyone right away?”
That was a nervous thought as well, but one that she knew she could handle. The people, the nobles and everyone of the court would know soon enough.
“Not that I’m opposed. I will follow your lead, Artorius. Always and forever, you are my King and I love you. I hope you know that now.”
He had to know it, because there wouldn’t have been a positive response, after all. Smiling gently once more, Gwen pressed a kiss to his forehead and then pulled away to take once of his hands.
“Come, let us enjoy a meal together to celebrate. I’ll call for my servant to bring something around for us. And maybe some wine, too, yes? One of your favorites?”
~~
The rough texture of his bride’s hands reminds Artorius of Guinevere’s first passion. Her blacksmithing; forging weapons of deadly elegance in the fires of her father’s forge. Armour too. The knights of Camelot owed much to the Smith family over the years, and the Pendragons had never really favoured their contributions to the kingdom. Until first Arthur (briefly) and then Artorius (for the long haul) fell in love with the blacksmith’s daughter.
There’s so much more she can teach me, Artorius thinks, but doesn’t say, lost in her eyes and the promise of her smile. She is the embodiment of the People. The citizens of Camelot whom Artorius intends to serve most nobly with his life. How could his heart not have been captured by one so fair and kind as she?
He listens in silent admiration as Gwen voices her thoughts. The blond is touched that she thought of him at that day on the tournament field, even though Arthur commanded all female (and male) attentions otherwise. His younger twin (by 7 minutes) was the main attraction, more often than not. So bold and fierce - Artorius could have understood it if Guinevere felt more inclined towards his brother than him (although it would have hurt). In fact, Artorius is sure his brother did give affections to Gwen before… before whatever they shared grew stronger.
Artorius breathes out slowly. Well, yes. He had felt jealous once. It could have become a dangerous time, for both Royal Twins to grow fond of the same woman. Luckily a sneaky manservant had been on hand to catch Arthur’s wandering eye. That, and the flowers Artorius often gave Gwen, his secret love, in spite of and in hope of the impossible, must have had the desired effect.
She hadn’t forgotten him. She knew him, and more than this, she held on for him, even during his own period of exile with Arthur and his knights. And now, despite all that has changed since the twins returned to reclaim the castle from Morgana and Morgause, she’s still waiting for him, still prepared to-
The answer to his question is given in a kiss, the most tender the King has ever received in his life, and Artie closes his eyes, because this is a moment he hopes never to forget. His hands find their way to her arms, feeling the strength of her conviction, and the touch of her beautiful cascading hair upon his fingers make him sigh quietly.
He lets her go, only because her smile is so perfect and captivating, Artorius would be a fool to want to miss it.
“Yes, Artorius. Yes, I will marry you.”
The King nods, fighting back his own smile. But as solemn and severe as Uther’s son usually appeared, nothing can hold back the joy in his being from making itself known. Artorius wants to scoop his bride up, spin her round, kiss her soundly in return, push her back against the soft curtains and take her, lift her higher, show her exactly what she means to him.
The hotness of his blood overtakes his reason. Artorius looks down and swallows. No. Not before their wedding night. His brother might dally in such behaviours with his lovers, but Artorius is the more conservative of the two. Always has been.
That did not mean he did not have a fairly good idea of how to please a lady though. It wasn’t as if his brother didn’t like to share the details. The obnoxious brat. Artorius sighs. He does love his brother, he’d always have Arthur’s back. But siblings did like to tease one another occasionally.
He carries a hint of Arthur’s twinkle in his eye though, as Gwen becomes more excited about the future:
“Does this mean these chambers will go to my father instead once we’re married? You know, since I’ll be sharing with you. He’d be thrilled, honestly.”
“I would imagine so. Lord Smith is going to be my father-in-law. A member of the royal house. I think he’ll get this grand chamber here, as well as a few other things, once I’ve worked out how many assets my father owns… and has kept from me and my brother.”
Artorius frowns a little. Since becoming King, Geoffrey and a few other elders and senior advisors of the council had come to him, able at last to tell the new monarch the full extent of the vast titles of land and wealth that the Crown possessed. Some of it made Artorius a little uncomfortable, truth be told.
Camelot is the richest of the five kingdoms by far. It is no wonder Uther cultivated such enemies. Greed of his magnitude would have made most men bitter and envious. Artorius thinks of his father, locked in the guest’s chambers in the West Wing. It is the most luxurious of prisons but the point remains the same; Uther Pendragon has been disposed. Most conquering Kings would execute their predecessor, to set an example.
But Artorius can’t even think of committing such an act against his own father.
He’s thinking too much, and Guinevere is quick to draw him back to her again with a warm and strong hug. A warrior woman. Artorius holds onto her tightly in return. Guinevere Smith. Guinevere Pendragon. Would she want to take the family name of a former Tyrant? In all honestly, Artorius would not mind one bit if she preferred not to.
“Oh, we’ll have so much to plan. Are you… planning on telling everyone right away?”
Artorius smiles at the fact that his future wife is still holding onto him so tightly. There’s strength and softness in her, he can see it. Something for him to protect, something for him to cherish. Artorius lowers his voice, in a conspiratorial manner.
“Well, that’s up to you. I would have the Court know right away. Stop the dukes and other nobles from continuing to fling their daughters in my direction.”
The blond laughs a little at Gwen’s expression, shaking his head softly as he catches her chin in his hand, drawing her in again.
“I’m not interested in them. Only in you.”
He initiates their kiss this time, and it carries in it all the hopes and dreams Artorius Pendragon has of a kingdom with her by his side, as his Queen. He takes her top lip, kisses and soothes her bottom lip, wanting to capture her whole mouth, but he doesn’t push for more. Always waiting for her silent permission. The engaged couple seem content enough with the romantic overtures; they have their whole life ahead of them anyway, to care for each other and their people. Their people.
“I will follow your lead, Artorius. Always and forever, you are my King and I love you.”
Artie smiles, inclining his neck as Gwen pulls back and kisses his forehead.
And I follow my heart, Gwen.
My heart which always leads me back to you.
– The next day –
The celebratory feast in Guinevere’s chambers marked an evening that continued to put a bounce in the King’s step as he threw himself into his royal duties. Granted, he had drunk quite a bit of red wine (it is possible he may have said some foolish things and Gwen might have giggled) but Artorius doesn’t remember all of that. He just remembers the best parts. The feelings that passed between them as they looked into each other’s eyes.
They have to get married. It feels too long to wait, before they can start their new lives together. A Queen who works the forges, who armours the knights and puts a sword in the hand of her King.
Artorius can’t wait to show her off. He is proud of her. He wants all the five kingdoms to know what an amazing woman the Lady Guinevere is; she who has given him the honour by agreeing to marry him.
“Wasn’t she common-born though, this Lady?”
Artorius looks over at the man who has spoken, eyes narrowing.
The Lord of Morgannwg continues on in the council chambers, in his perfectly entitled way. “It is a little irregular of course, surely the other nobles can agree with me on this? We don’t want our enemies to make jokes of Camelot… Sire.”
The sounds of men agreeing puts an unpleasant mood upon the King. Artorius’ hand curls into a fist. He bangs it hard upon the long table.
“Enough! The Lady Guinevere is my betrothed. She does not need to be born royal for this Crown to acknowledge her. Lord Morgannwg, do not speak out of turn unless I ask for your opinion in future.”
Uther’s son glares at his advisor, one of his father’s more ardent supporters.
The man gulps, lowering his head. Artorius is his father’s son alright.
Appeased, the King turns the topic of discussion onto the matter of Morgana. Of her upcoming trial. Aware of his brother’s wishes, Artorius is in no mood to push for a quick resolution; as his father might have. He will give the advisors and the gentry time to provide him with all the arguments and counter-arguments on the witch who tried to steal the kingdom for Morgause and her supporters.
Democracy had to be upheld.
In the back of his mind, Artorius wonders how his wife-to-be is faring, helping her father move his things into the new chambers befitting the father-in-law of the King.
He wonders too what his brother is up to, probably fooling about with that manservant. Arthur is in love too.
A joint wedding is clearly called for.
~~
After the announcements of her betrothal to the King, Guinevere was a very busy woman. Everyone wanted to talk to her. They either congratulated her or they questioned her. She knew that many did not think that she was worthy of becoming Artorius’ bride, nor the Queen, but she would prove them wrong. Merlin and Gaius, however, were among her biggest supporters. Merlin spoke to her at lengths of what they could do for the wedding and she appointed him one of her planners, herself being one as well. Guinevere would make sure that Artorius had a wedding to remember. She had never imagined such a huge ceremony for herself, but times had changed. Even her father was excited for her and Elyan was a tease, of course.
Tom babbled excitedly as she helped him move his things into his new chambers. He would fit into the role of father-in-law well, she thought. As Artorius’s own father was not seen out in public as much anymore, she was sure that Tom’s company would comfort him from time to time. And she liked to think that Elyan would get along fairly well with Artorius as well, though he was stubborn and stuck to Arthur and his knights more often. She was just glad that her family was all under one roof again, besides her mother. She liked to think that her mother was looking down at them with a smile on her face.
Besides helping her father with his new chambers and greeting nobles and lady’s that wished to speak with her, Guinevere was being given lessons. Geoffrey came by with books on how to be a Queen and Lady and a lady of the court had been assigned to her to teach her. It was only a day of lessons so far when she had the time, but she liked to think that she was getting the hang of things fairly quickly.
It would take time, as would everything else.
[ time skip ]
Artorius finally announced to the Kingdom that magic would be allowed. Everyone was in awe but no one was as proud as herself and Merlin. She watched with a smile as he held onto Arthur’s hand, another law that was changed as well and she couldn’t help but lean into her fiancé when he had joined her.
“They look good together, don’t they?” She had asked as they watched Merlin and Arthur dancing before joining in the group dance themselves. Today everyone was happy, today there was peace. Guinevere wished that Morgana could join them, but that would take time.
Eventually, Merlin and Arthur had to lead drunken knights out of the grand hall and Arthur winked at them suggestively, causing her to blush.
“We don’t have to … ,” Gwen said later when they were alone in Artorius’ chambers.
She knew that he was hesitant on these matters and she respected him. Guinevere had had a tumble or two in her younger years, but she had not slept with anyone for some time. Would he not like that? Knowing he wasn’t her first? She decided not to mention it, knowing it did not matter as Artorius took her in his arms and they made love for the first time that night.
[ the next morning ]
It was certainly a welcome surprise to wake up in the King’s bed. She curled closer to him, a hand resting gently on his chest as he still slept. If they were in her little house, she’d have gotten up to make him breakfast. As it was, they would have to wait for his servant Lorenzo to come by with that.
Realizing her lack of dress, Gwen carefully slipped out of bed and slipped back into her underclothes. It was better than nothing at least and should there be a knock at the door, she would not be nearly as embarrassed had she been completely naked. Noticing Artorius shifting a little, she snuggled down beside him again and pressed a kiss to his shoulder.
“Good morning, my sun and stars.”
It was a sentiment she rarely used, but one that meant all the same. He was the sun to her darkness, the light to her day.
“Don’t you have a meeting with your brother today? You best get up and get ready, my dear. Or I’m sure your manservant will be in here dragging you out of bed. Don’t tell me you’re too hungover for such a thing.”
She wondered too if Artorius and Arthur would meet with Morgana that day too. They surely needed to work things out there. Guinevere wasn’t sure if she could stand seeing her old friend on the pyre. And after the rule changes, surely Arthur wouldn’t do something like that?
“Artorius? Are you awake?”
~~
Leaving his bride-to-be in the earlier hours of the morning to speak to his father, Artorius had not counted on Guinevere to still be sleeping when he returned to their shared chambers.
A warm smile touches the King’s face as he sees Gwen resting peacefully in their bed. Her naked body lies tucked under the covers, a hand curled around the pillows. Pleasant memories, enough to dispel the poisonous words of his father, fill Artorius’ head. The night they had shared together, after Artorius had repealed the magic ban, introduced legislation permitting same-sex marriage and invited the people to gather and celebrate the changes in the main hall, had been the most beautiful of his life. Guinevere loved him, and Arthur had found love for himself in turn in the arms of his manservant, now duly appointed Court Sorcerer.
It had been a magical evening, as far as Artorius could make out - for everyone concerned. And now, there only remained putting a Crown on Guinevere’s fair head, and perhaps for Arthur and Merlin, a similar token band of gold or silver could be fashioned to commemorate their vows to each other.
Smiling at the thought, Artorius decides not to wake his sleeping bride so early in the day, preferring instead to strip down to his night clothes, and join her again before the rest of the palace awakens. Lying himself down, Artorius rests upon his back, as his bride shifts closer in sleep.
Gazing up at the tapestry of cloth above his head, Artorius finds himself momentarily drawn to the motif of the King and the Queen. Light surrounds both their heads, like a halo. As if they had been chosen for their roles by God. Artorius frowns. There also, he sees the King cut his palm, presenting his blood as a sacrifice to their union. The Queen kneels before him in the next tableau and Artorius sees her bow her head and accept his sword. Suffering follows in the very next tableau, as a broken King lifts the body of his wife. Her womb empty and devoid of life.
The shadow thought that these images could have been how Uther felt at the death of Ygraine, causes a sudden shiver to run through the King.
Turning unprompted, Artorius takes Gwen back into his arms, tucking his head lower to rest on the pillows beneath her chin. Surrounded by her warmth, the blond child at last drifts off to sleep.
[ later in the morning ]
The sun is shining rather high in the sky. It must be near mid-morning. And Lorenzo, his latest manservant, still hasn’t turned up. Could it be, that even a servant as prompt as he had had a little too much to drink the night before?
“Good morning, my sun and stars.”
Artorius groans quietly, yet a smile is on his face as his eyes open and the first thing he sees is her. Guinevere is dressed, yet still she snuggles up beside him, sharing the warmth of their duvet. Taking her hand in his, Artorius leans in and kisses her, letting the moment last. His eyes sparkle with happiness when they part.
“Already reminding me of my royal duties? Seems I don’t need a servant. My wife can order me around, plan my day, structure my life, rule my heart…”
Artorius pauses. Of course he is teasing her. Without further prompting he hauls himself up and out of bed, slipping back on the clothes he had worn only a few hours earlier. Guinevere seems to fall silent as he does so. Artorius imagines she must be thinking about her old friend, Morgana. Not only the twins’ sister, the sorceress had meant something to Gwen too, back when she used to serve her lady. Artorius nods, tightening a belt over his tunic.
“Arthur, yes. I’ll have him come to me after breakfast and the first council session. We do have much to discuss.”
The fate of Morgana is one that hangs over them all. Artorius realises it is the next big test of his kingship. He has made a promise to his imprisoned father however, and while he might detest Uther for all the misery he has put he and his brother through, Artorius is at the end of the day - a man of his word.
Looking back once more at his bride, the King smiles faintly.
“Don’t worry Guinevere. All will be well. I desire only peace for Camelot. Peace and prosperity, for all. I will fight to defend that. Have faith in me, my love.”
Stepping closer, he kisses her gently, holding her chin in the palm of his hand. Drawing back, a grin slowly spreads over his face.
“Now, go and spend some more time with your father and Merlin. I understand you three are planning something rather exciting for me and my brother. I’ll be back by your side, as soon as I can.”
Winking, Artorius turns to go, stopping only once more by the door.
“Oh, and we can share dinner with all of them - if you like? Tom, Merlin and Arthur. I’d like that.”
~~
“If there is to be peace, then you must welcome Morgana back home as well, Artorius.”
She did not speak of her old friend much around the King, for she knew of the animosity between them. But she liked to think that he listened to her. And between herself and Arthur, surely one of them could convince him to give Morgana another chance.
Guinevere wanted to be a forgiving, loving Queen. One that would not turn away those who might come back to the light. She believed that Morgana was one of those people, she just didn’t think that Artorius believed it yet. That much was said by the expression that she could see on his face at the mere mention of the other woman.
She kissed her beloved back tenderly, a hand stroking along his right side gently before they stepped back from each other and she smiled back in turn at him. Regardless of what happened, she would love him no matter what. They may not be married yet, but it felt as if they already had. They had already consummated their bond, after all.
“Very well, if you insist. And trust me, you will like the surprise.” She tapped him on his nose and grinned. The surprise was more Merlin’s doing, truth be told. A little outing, a few days away that Artorius didn’t know would work in his schedule in after the wedding. She knew that most royal Kings did not often get a honeymoon for some time and they deserved it. Artorius deserved it after all that he had been through and Arthur could sit in his place while they were gone. The plans were set, she just hoped they worked out. Merlin was sure that they were. With his help and Arthur’s, she was sure Artorius would be able to have the relaxing vacation that he had not had in a very long time. And she believed the kingdom would be left in capable hands while they were gone.
“That would be lovely! Thank you, Artorius. I’ll make sure the arrangements are made. In the dining hall, yes?”
She leaned forward to kiss him on the cheek and left their chambers with a bounce in her step. Between the wedding, the honeymoon and the adjustments that had recently been made in the kingdom, there was a lot to do.
[ fast forward ]
Later, after much was done that day, Guinevere was finally able to meet everyone in the dining hall. This large room hadn’t been used too much before Artorius had taken the crown. She was sure it was going to be used more often now that he was King. Feasts were something the castle and the people looked forward to and she was certain that more of the townsfolk would start getting invited to events, which should happen to begin with, Though she knew nobles and the like wouldn’t agree with that.
Spotting Merlin and Arthur together at the main dining table that stayed in the room full time, she smiled gently at them both and sat near them, leaving a spot for Artorius as she did so.
“The food should be along any moment, sorry for the wait. I just figured it would be best brought out closer to when Artorius could get here.”
“He is the King after all,” Arthur replied with a small, teasing sort of smile. “We understand."
~~
If there is to be peace, then you must invite Morgana back home as well…
Guinevere’s words stay long in Artorius’ mind as the King goes to his advisors and councillors. They remain there, a little piece of his wife-to-be that he carries with him always, as he sits at the head of the table, listening to entreaties of mercy, of calls to send the witch to the gallows, to reports of their neighbours’ movements following the bloodless coup in the throne room.
That had been just over two months ago.
The law of the land is changing under Artorius and his brother’s rule. The civil unrest is somewhat expected. Bandits had become emboldened in the transitional period of the regime change, and those who favoured Uther’s more simple rule of law and order were agitating on the sidelines.
Artorius listens to the stock report of the castle’s pantries, nodding appropriately. There are adequate stores of grain available to support the influx of peasants from the outer villages, for the winter months at least. Thankfully, the spirit of goodwill and charity is alive and well in the capital, and Camelot’s town-dwellers are as welcoming of the refugees as Artorius could expect.
Artorius considers his options; he is keen to avoid martial law, but the knights would have to be mustered, if peace is to be maintained within their borders. The villagers should be able to return to their homes again, once the the rising threats are quelled.
Which left only the disquieting news of raiding from the north. Sarrum, of Amata, is stirring. A long-time supporter of Uther. It is likely he seeks to restore the deposed King to his throne, or else take Camelot for himself. Another show of strength would normally be necessitated of a King. Either Artorius has Morgana put to death for her crimes against the Crown, or he has his father executed to establish his authority as the new reigning monarch.
Neither choice sounds particularly appealing to Uther’s son.
He explains as such to his advisors. The war between the magical and non-magical communities is over - the killing of either family member could lead to a new inflammation of hostilities on either side. Another way had to be found.
And that left the pressure on the new King to find another way to prove his strength. Camelot’s enemies were watching and waiting, quietly assessing.
Artorius leaves the chambers uneasy. Running into a senior servant of the household in the corridor he is informed that the Court Sorcerer, his brother and the Lady Smith are awaiting him in the dining hall. Thanking the man, he changes direction, heading for the company of family and friends.
So much of what Artorius had achieved up to this point, he’d done alone - forced to keep Arthur out of suspicion, and Merlin - of all people - safe from interrogation. But times had changed. Perhaps now, together, the four of them might have an idea on how to avoid further bloody conflict in the name of peace.
The elder twin spies them before they see him. Guinevere is already seated beside his brother at the high table, and the pair are laughing together as Merlin waves a hand, performing some sort of magic trick with the empty crockery in the air before them. Artorius smiles, leaning back against the beams of the wooden door at the entrance. Quite content to see them innocently play, none the wiser to his presence, the King keeps his silence, imagining a far simpler time, when the twins were both princes, and Guinevere was his secret sweetheart.
Eventually of course, the Court Sorcerer looks in his direction.
Artorius scoffs, unfolding his arms and stepping forward.
“Never underestimate the observational powers of a wizard, should I Merlin? You see a lot more than my brother or I could ever have appreciated, especially when you hid yourself under our father’s very nose.”
Smiling knowingly, Artorius nods.
“I am glad you are on our side. Another person playing a longer game is appreciated.”
Taking a seat next to Gwen, the older of the Pendragon twins looks at his lady, smiling and kissing her cheek in thanks for her part in arranging the feast. Looking at all the empty plates in front of them, the cooks and servants soon appear with the entrees. Artorius feels his stomach rumbling on cue.
“Now, Arthur. Do not go pigging out as you usually do. I warn you, after the morning I’ve had, I probably could eat you under the table.”
~~
Things feel peaceful, though Guinevere knows they’re anything but. Artorius has already told her of the growing tension from neighboring kingdoms, ones that supported Uther more than they would Artorius. She hoped that some sort of agreement could be made without any bloodshed. They had somehow been able to already manage avoiding that before, but could they do things peacefully again. If Arthur had his way, Gwen knew that’s what he would try to do, but Artorius? He had been raised differently and she knew he would need the persuasion of his friends.
“Oi! Come on now, I’m not that bad,” Arthur says, a laugh escaping his mouth as Merlin rolls his eyes next to him.
It is good to know that Artorius is so relaxed with Merlin around, even seeing magic used so openly is different than any of them could have expected. Though she knew that Arthur was used to it, if anything the fondness in his eyes earlier as he’d watched Merlin perform magic had said as much. Yes, the twins were very different from each other, but they had their lovers to help balance them out.
Gwen leaned into the kiss on her cheek, reaching out to squeeze Artorius’ arm in response as well.
“Don’t tease your brother. There’s enough here for all of us and then some. The servants and cooks are always rather generous.” She knew as well from her days of being a serving woman to the Lady Morgana.
She wished the woman was there with them enjoying this meal instead of rotting in the dungeons. Guinevere made a mental note to go visit her and take her some leftovers from lunch. Artorius would surely come around at some point. As for Uther, Gwen didn’t much care about what happened with him, but she knew Artorius would so she would keep her opinions there to herself. She was not a cold person and would not wish death on Uther Pendragon, but that didn’t mean she would go out of her way to help him. Morgana on the other hand did deserve another chance.
“How did your council session go, Artorius? Anything you’d like to discuss with us?”
And it seemed that he had quite a lot to discuss. Fortunately the doors had been closed for they were left alone in private to talk and one could never be too careful, even though it had been some time since Artorius had taken over, Gwen worried there would be betrayers still in the castle, those who would rather see Uther or anyone else at all on the throne.
“Well, you can’t give in to that, Artorius,” Gwen said with a shake of her head.
“Killing Morgana or Uther or both of them won’t achieve anything. Showing them mercy … ,” Morgana at least, she thought, “Will show you have clemency. It will show Sarrum that you won’t give in to demands. It is your goal to bring peace between the kingdoms, all of us here know that, but you can’t do something that your heart wouldn’t agree with. Sometimes it is okay to rule with your heart over your head, Artorius.”
Gwen rested a gentle hand on the King’s and squeezed it gently. The meal was already mostly eaten between them, but she could tell the other two were listening more than eating now, giving their opinions as well to Gwen’s statement. It seemed that they agreed with her and she could tell Arthur felt along the same lines of her about Morgana.
“And you must not rush into your decision. If you do, they will think they can demand anything of you. And who knows what would be next. They may require you to turn back your laws, to make things as they were. You are your own man, Artorius. You are the King. You will know what’s right.” She wasn’t the Queen yet, but she knew she was speaking like one.
It would only be a matter of time before she was allowed into the meetings that Artorius and sometimes Arthur and Merlin attended. Would they welcome her there? A once servant given a title because the King loved her? She worried that she would not be liked on the throne, but she supposed deep down that wasn’t the point either. She was there to help Artorius, to give him advice and help him understand from a viewpoint of someone lower just as she had always done.
“The people know you will make the right decisions for them as you always have done.”
She made sure to check on the people a couple of times a week, to walk among them in her normal attire. Most treated her the same, which she was appreciative of. Guinevere was sure that they would do so anyway since she had grown up there among the lower town folk. Many of them were like family as her father was gone and she needed that support. Gwen wondered what Elyan would say if Artorius asked for his advice as well. Perhaps his thoughts would be different, he had always been more the wayward type and she knew he was out patrolling the city of Camelot now. Maybe she would talk to him later and see how he felt about everything too. But that was not for now when she and Arthur and Merlin and Artorius all sat together in the Great Hall dining and enjoying a meal and seeking advice from each other. Gwen curled her fingers around Artorius’s and squeezed once more, thumb brushing along his skin softly.
“We are here for you, Artorius. In whatever you decide.”
~~
Artorius smiles, stroking a thumb over the back of Gwen’s palm in turn. Truly, he could not have wanted for a better partner. The Lady Smith spoke with grace and good sense. Growing up as an entitled prince, Artorius would once have not thought it possible for a commoner such as she to have obtained wisdom. Intellect, study and opportunity apparently were not the only indicators of a well-rounded mind. Guinevere, the blacksmith’s daughter, will be a magnificent Queen.
He nods in tacit agreement as she puts forward her arguments. Sarrum is nothing more than a bully, using provocation to try and force a violent confrontation on their borders. While some of Artorius’ war council might want their new King to react to a challenge like that with matched aggression, Artorius is wondering whether there might be a better way. Certainly, short-term action taken against either of the prisoners to make a political statement could spiral into creating new divisions within Camelot.
Artorius sighs, shaking his head.
“Don’t worry, I have no intention of bowing to pressure from either side. Executing my sister or my father solves nothing. Not in the long run. I will not have Camelot devolve to populist acts of vengeance, not while we are in the midst of changing our nation’s constitution. My father’s court are still learning the way I choose to do things will be different to what they are used to. In any case, I have the support of Sir Geoffrey, Sir Thomas, and the majority of the Lords on this matter. I know their mind; they do not want war… not if it threatens their lands and ownership of their serfs. The ones that are pushing for conflict are fast losing support with their inflammatory rhetoric.”
Pausing, Artorius gaze flickers over to his brother and the Court Sorcerer.
Just as Gwen had noticed, the pair of them had become rather more… carefree and loving around each other. Arthur seemed to have found joy in the magic in a way that Artorius might struggle with, to his dying day. But what Artorius is moved by, is the sight of happy friends and family. It is a powerful alliance. The leader of Camelot’s knights and the figurehead of those with magic. The King nods, coming to a decision. The current peace between the peoples of Camelot may have been won via stealth and a bloodless coup, but it would have to be defended publicly, if it is going to last.
There was a simple way of demonstrating that.
“You know… I see no reason why I should muster armies for an extended military campaign, when I would rather see the city prepare for a royal wedding instead. You could join us, brother? The laws have been changed. There is nothing to stop you and Merlin from making your relationship officially recognised. I can think of no greater gesture of solidarity with our allies, nor a single act that could piss off our detractors more. Besides, it’s clear as day to everyone in the court now those rumours between you two were right all along.”
Artorius tips his head forward, eyebrows raised in that way he used for softly antagonising his twin in their youth. Whether Merlin or Arthur would deny it, their love for each other had grown ever more obvious, emboldened by the legislative changes no doubt. It pleased Artorius no end that he could provide that for his brother. Especially after the years of Arthur being made to feel inferior and overlooked by father when they both were princes. Never again would Artorius give reason for Arthur to run away from home like that.
Things are different now. Uther is deposed. Tolerance and mutual respect for all people in Camelot has been re-established. And it’s not as if Artorius is proving to be as power-hungry a King as his father might have wanted. As the twins had already found out: a Crown could be shared… particularly when the faces wearing it were so similar.
Picking up a goblet, Artorius takes a long drink. The future. It almost teased the King with its possibilities. The words of Agravaine at court that morning though, they continue to put doubt in his mind. You are strong, your Majesty, like your father. But you cannot rule a kingdom with your heart.
Behind that counsel, quiet and insidious, lay his father’s warning: When they betray you I will be waiting, my son.
Artorius sets down the cup.
“Hm. Sarrum’s raiders prowling our borders… while irksome, they do pose a threat to the peace. Alright, here’s what I think we should do. Arthur, would you send a small detachment of your knights to the villages reporting the disturbance? That Sir Gwaine, and the big fellow he likes to hang around with, they seem like the type to enjoy a challenge? You said you met them both in the wilderness, so I believe they are capable of leading men undercover. Merlin, you should send some of your people to accompany them. Have them cast spells to conceal their presence from Sarrum’s warriors. Together, the knights and the druids can dissuade these invaders from continuing their meddling, perhaps even teach them a lesson? I don’t want bloodshed. War is not my goal, but I don’t want the people either to feel their King is neither willing nor able to protect them.”
Looking around the table at the three faces gazing at him, Artorius nods to check their understanding. In this, they are all of them going to play a part. King, future Queen, Prince Regent and Court Sorcerer. They would shape the future of Camelot, together.
Artorius nods once more.
“In the meantime… I will make overtures for Sarrum to visit us in Camelot. We can discuss our evolving ties between kingdoms over the negotiating table rather than out on a battlefield.”