Braver than Knights

Chapter Sixteen: A Peace of Mind

I arrive at my tree. Nothing had changed. Had it really only been two weeks? I climb up to my bed. Just as comfy as I woke up that morning. I was as still as the wind, at that time.

"Madeline! How could you!" "You too, Merlin! Don't think we've forgotten YOU!" "This is madness." "How could you! Disgrace the King as you did!"

"Madeline! Wake up!" I wake with a start. I look over to see Arthur holding my shoulder. I screech and get myself up. "What are you doing!" I demanded. "I came to look for you. It looked like something was up. When I found you, you were crying in your sleep." He quickly shakes his head and scratches his neck. "It's the least I could do." He said quickly. I was willing to admit that I felt strange around Arthur. I had a feeling I've never felt before. I knew he felt the same way. But what was it? Ever since that night at the ball, something was strange. The party must have gone to his head. Yes, that's why he.....never mind. Or did it? He was just probably doing what anyone would do if they cried in their sleep. He was just being nice. "Thanks." I mumble. "Anytime." He said, than quickly shook his head. Did he really....no. It was impossible. Why have a Jungle Freak over the Perfect Princess? It was, in all honestly, ridiculous. I tucked the piece of hair that never makes it into my braid behind my ear. He cleared his throat. Awkward! "We should go." I said. He nods. "Yeah." He half says and half breaths. We jump down and mount our horses. We ride home in silence.

The next morning, I wake with a start. I had that dream again. Who was Merlin? I had never heard that name before. Someone opens the door. I wipe my eyes of their tears. A tall, slim boy about my age stepped in. He had raven hair, crystal green eyes, and a small amount of scruff. His crystal eyes reminded me of my own crystal-like sky blue eyes. "Good morning, Lady Madeline." He said. His voice was surprisingly deep. "Drop the Lady act, please." I said. "Yes'm." He said. "State your name and business." I said. "My name is Merlin, and I was told to get you for training. I'm Arthur's personal servant, so..." He trails. He's Merlin? What could we possibly have in relation besides our eyes? I nodded. "I'll be right there." I said. He nodded and left. I get myself up and put on my training cloths. I didn't bother much with my hair. I brushed it and put it in a ponytail. I leave my bangs down. I head out, just to find hurt.