Merthur - Love in the Time of War

Chapter 8 - A Questioning Heart

Merlin's POV

I spin around, getting to my feet quickly. I stand over Arthur, attempting to shield him from whomever had just spoken. I glare at the man that stands a short distance away, shrouded by the trees. He slowly lurks out of the woods. The man has a dirty brown cloak draped around him, obscuring his face. He approaches slowly and without fear. I back up a little. Who is this man? Why did he call me Emrys? Did he mistaken me for someone else?

I shut my eyes, taking in a deep breath and still my nerves. I look back up with calm. "Who are you?" I demand.

"Ah, how rude of me," the man says. He lifts up a hand to remove his hood. As his hand reaches up I catch the faint glimpse of a marking on his wrist. The mark of a druid. He removes his hood to reveal a man with gentle brown eyes. He's bald with brown skin and a kind smile on his face. The man bows. "My name is Aglain. It is an honour to meet you Emrys."

Aglain... The name strikes a chord in my memories. Where have I heard that name before? Suddenly, the pieces click into place. "Your a druid leader. The one who raised Mordred."

The mans smile widens. "Yes, Mordred. He's doing well I hope?"

"Yes he's fine. I'll tell you later but what are you doing here? Why did you call me Emrys?"

"Now now. One thing at a time. We can discuss about you later. As for why I'm here. It's as I said before. You look like you need help."

I glance down at Arthur who moans in pain. New found hope swells in my chest. "You can help him?!"

"Of course. Come. Let's take him to the camp." Aglain turns and begins to head into the forest. The trees seeming to bend around him.

I quickly gather Arthur into my arms, using a strength spell to help me lift him more easily before following the druid into the forest.

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We arrive in a portion of the forest that is less dense. There is more space between each tree, allowing for someone to set up a camp if need be. I gaze around at my unfamiliar surroundings. I've never come to this area before.

I hear Arthur groan in my arms. He starts to writhe in my grip. "It's going to be alright Arthur. You're not going to die on me. I promise you that," I whisper to him despite the fact that I doubt he can hear me.

I look back up to see Aglain give us a smirk before turning back to face the path ahead. I blush brightly, trying to hide my face. That was embarrassing. Aglain's going to get the wrong idea!

I look back down at Arthur who's still unconscious in my arms. His breath hitches every so often in his throat. A sheen of sweat glistens on his forehead. I smile warmly down at him. He looks handsome. I blush again. Did I just-?

"We're here," Aglain says, gesturing forwards.

I follow the direction he gives and gasps in surprise. Before me is a Druid camp. I slowly walk forwards, gaping at everything.

Trees hide the encampment from view, shielding it from harm. That's probably why I didn't see it until we were so close. A fire pit sits in the centre of the camp while makeshift tents and huts form a ring around it. Women wander about cooking delicious smelling stews or washing mud stained clothes. The children are all huddled in groups. Some practise magic while others read or play games. A few of the men are helping their wives or chopping wood for the fire. The place is lively. A smile is plastered to everyone's faces.

I gaze out at the scene in wonder. I hope one day Camelot can become a place like this. Where everyone helps one another. Where there are no wars and people lived happily and without a care in the world. Where the children will never have to see a time of battle. Yes... this would be the happy ending Camelot deserves. Everyone in Camelot.