A Strange Tale (multiverse fanfiction) (On Hold)

Chapter 13: A Royal Tour And The Royal Pain

We arrived at the castle, and I was astounded. The buildings were high, and each brick seemed to be intricately crafted and mastered into a great work of art. Statues riddled the towers, and men were guarding, marching and practising.

"Wow..." I said. I looked at Derek who was also staring.

"Impressive," he murmured. "But not gonna be enough."

"For what?" I asked and crossed my arms. Derek stared at me, his brows raised. "To protect you."

Before I could say anything, there was a barrage of people who came from the steps of the castle.

"And find that bloody idiot....Merlin..." Arthur appeared from the crowds but froze as he spotted me. "One moment." He ran down the steps and walked towards me with a frown. "You're awake...good to see you back on your feet."

"Good to be back...I think," I said and Arthur sighed.

"Look, about that incident in the woods..."

"You didn't know I was poisoned...so I can understand you pushing us..." I quickly responded. I was getting real nervous and awkward with all this attention I was receiving.

"But, she would like a tour of the castle," Derek added in and I swallowed. Arthur simply nodded.

"I normally wouldn't allow such simple frivolous activities, but considering the circumstances, I can make an exception..."

I took a step closer. "If it's an inconvenience, there's really no need..."

"Nonsense, besides, Merlin hasn't brought back the supplies requested so we have time...this way," Arthur motioned me towards the steps of the castle. We headed up the stairs, and I nearly tripped.

"Wow," I gasped as we entered the throne room. It really was breath taking, with golden encrusted statues, paintings lining the walls, and a thick, lush red carpet which led to a large throne. "Who rules here?"

"King Wesley, the Fifth...." Arthur responded and I nodded. "When you meet him...don't mention his size."

"What?"

The doors burst open and Derek pulled me down. "Bow."

I did and kept my eyes to the floor.

"You look like idiots. Get up, get up..."

"I don't know father, I like seeing snivelling girls on the floor..."

I looked up to see a large, fat man with a crown on his head. Next to him was a blonde girl, quite pretty along with Rachel at her side. I assumed the blonde was the daughter. Oh great. She looked me up and down, and rolled her eyes. 

"Told you..." Rachel whispered loud enough to hear. "Pathetic."

I gritted my teeth, but a shiver of surprise rang through me, as Derek's hand brushed against my back. I glanced at him, who's eyes only remained at the king and Rachel.

"We were just leaving," Arthur spoke.

"Nonsense, join us for lunch...you too...lady, thing...you're not infectious are you?" King Wesley asked me.

"She's fully recovered. You have my word," Arthur spoke.

"Perfect...but place her farther at the table..."

"I do not mean to be rude, Your Highness, but I would rather like to rejoin my friends..."

The king nodded. "Of course, that would be preferred..."

Rachel giggled, and I glanced at her. I was yet to discover why she hated me. 

"I'll escort her there," Derek offered. "Prince Arthur, Your Majesty..." He started leading me out. He bowed. "Princess...Rachel.."

The princess smiled at him. "I would love to see you at the ball tonight..."

"Looking forward to it..." Derek responded. He leads me out.

"There's a ball tonight?" I asked. A pang of jealousy shot through me.

"Yes, we didn't know whether you'd be awake for it..."

I nodded. "So I guess I am not invited..." I mumbled.

"Nonsense..."

I looked up to see Dean standing in the hall. He grinned at me. "Hey, sweetheart, good to see you on your feet."

"Dean, how's the Princess treating you?"

"Eh, I don't do royalty...they are a royal pain I tell you..." Dean winked at me. "Derek."

"Dean."

I stared at the two. Seriously? These two didn't like each other either? What was going on?

"I'll escort you to the barracks," Derek spoke. "And then I'll let Merlin get you something to wear tonight...if you're up for it?"

"Are you kidding me?" I freaked out. "A ball? I really really want to go."

"Then you will," Dean grinned at my beaming face. Despite everything, the thought of going to a ball...well, that thrilled me out. And boy, I had no idea what this night would hold.