Love Conquers All

Chapter Three

The world I know can hate you
The world I know can break you
But as you go remember
I'm by your side

-As You Go, Red

————————

The feast held in celebration of the anniversary of Arthur's coronation was as glorious as always, but Arthur himself did not appear to be enjoying it.

It didn't really surprise Merlin, after all, it was also the anniversary of Uthers death.

Arthur said something to Gwen, kissed her on the cheek, then stood and left the room.

Merlin's eyes followed him carefully, but he refrained from going after him. Arthur was in no danger, and Merlin knew exactly where his King was going.

Every year Arthur would pay his respects to his father and visit his tomb, Merlin knew because he had followed him the first time.

It was a private moment for Arthur, and Merlin knew he'd rather be alone.

He smiled reassuringly to a worried Gwen, who nodded back with a small, sad smile of her own.

Merlin's eyes then did a routine flicker around to make sure all the knights were happy, but his gaze paused on Mordred, who was deep in conversation with Elyan.

The youngest knight had fit into Camelot surprisingly well, and had already formed tight bonds with many of his comrades.

Mordred seemed to sense his gaze and glanced up, surprise flitting across his face before it lit up with one of his sweet smiles.

Merlin frowned and looked away. It had to be an act... didn't it? Mordred was simply trying to fool him into thinking he wasn't a threat.

Is everything okay?

Merlin jumped slightly at Mordred's voice echoing in his mind.

Get out of my head.

Merlin ordered sharply, pulling his mental shields up and doing his best to ignore the disappointed look on the Druids face.

It had to be an act.

"Merlin?"

Merlin's eyes snapped up to Gwen, who was beckoning him over.

"My Lady?" He asked and she shook her head.

"How many times have I told you, you're my friend Merlin, please call me Gwen."

"That would be very improper, My Lady," Merlin teased lightly, relaxing a bit.

"Fine," Gwen sighed. "I just wanted to ask about Arthur, he seemed even more distracted tonight than usual, has something happened?"

Merlin's thoughts immediately went to the Horn of Cathbhadh. Arthur hadn't mentioned it since their talk with Gaius, but as far as Merlin knew he hadn't locked it in the vaults yet either.

"Nothings happened," Merlin lied smoothly. If Arthur hadn't told her, than he wasn't about to. It was probably nothing, and would only worry her.

"I'll talk to him tomorrow, but I'm sure it's just Uther's death weighing on him."

"Thank you Merlin."