Darkness

Anxious

Hunith arrived in Camelot the day before William was to be presented to the kingdom. As soon as she stepped into the castle, She swept Merlin into a hug so fierce, Gwaine worried that she might crack one of his ribs. Merlin squeezed back just a tightly though. It made no difference if they had seen each other a week ago or a few months ago. Ever since Merlin returned from his ordeal, they showed as much mother-son affection as they could all the time. After a few days, Merlin would start to feel slightly annoyed, but would miss it once she was gone. Hunith had taken to mothering anyone in Merlin's circle. His love, the King and Queen, the Knights, and even a stable hand. Merlin was in council meetings all day, so she spent her time catching up with Gwaine and playing with her grandson.

"I'm glad you were able to make it." Gwaine said, smiling.

"It would have taken quite a feat to prevent me from being here." Hunith remarked.

"Hunith, I would like to ask you something." Gwaine said tentatively. She grinned at him with a twinkle in her eye. "I'm sure you may have guessed, but I wanted to do this properly. Or rather as properly as can be done now. It would mean the world to me if I could have your blessing to marry your son." Gwaine finally said, cheeks flushed, heart racing, palms sweating.

"It's about time." She said cheekily. "Of course you have my blessing." Gwaine let out a long sigh in relief causing Hunith to laugh. The door to their chambers swung open then, revealing a stressed looking Merlin, followed by an annoyed King Arthur.

"Alright, what has you two in such a state?" Gwaine pestered.

"It shouldn't be that hard of a question to answer, but Merlin either refuses or does not know." Arthur grumbled.

"Not all of us grow up in a castle with our full name plastered on all the walls, sire." Merlin retorted sourly.

"Boys." Hunith warned.

"Sorry, Mum." "Sorry, Hunith" They said at the same time, looking rightfully chastised.

"Now, what is it you are wanting to know?" She pressed.

"What William's surname will be. Morgana was a Pendragon by blood, but she gave up her claim, so that would leave Merlin's, but he doesn't seem to know it." Arthur said matter-of-factly, while Merlin just glowered.

"That's easy. It's Ambrosius." Hunith answered.

"Thank you, Hunith. If you don't mind, would you have time to speak with Geoffrey so we can ensure everything is recorded correctly while you are here?" Arthur asked happily.

"Of course. I can do it tomorrow morning before the celebrations, if that will work with Geoffrey?"

"I'll ensure he's available. Lovely seeing you again, Hunith. Gwaine. Merlin." Arthur said, ducking out.

"Mum." Merlin said cautiously.

"Yes, love?"

"Why is it you never told me?" Merlin sounded almost hurt. Hunith went over to her son and grabbed his hands in hers.

"My beautiful boy. I never thought you would ever have need of it. I could never have dreamed of the life you have built here. I am sorry I never told you. You deserved to know, I just never found the right time. You know how that is." She said, smiling softly at him. Merlin sighed.

"I understand." Merlin hugged his mother and went to follow the King.

"Now, Sir Gwaine, would you show me what betrothal gift you will be presenting my son?" Gwaine showed her the ring he had and they spoke softly, planning until it was time for the evening meal and Hunith retired to her chambers. It was a quiet night for Merlin, Gwaine and William. They wanted it to be that way since the next day was going to be full of activity.