Lady of Magic

XXVI

Arthur turns the ring in his hand, looking it over. The same ring he gave Gwen when he proposed to her. It hangs off a chain that seems to have been snapped. He found it during the hunt today. Ever since then, he has been in a foul mood. He has been rude to everyone that just slightly annoys him. Which means he mostly has been taking it out on Merlin. 

To be fair, Merlin did accuse Agravaine of giving out plans that could harm the kingdom right after he had to watch his sister sign away her title and right to the throne. If only that dense servant could realize what she has given up for him, he wouldn't be questioning the royal family. His uncle would never betray the country. 

The door opens, Merlin stepping through. The young king lets out a sigh before looking at his friend.

"How can I still love her?" he asks. "How can I still love a woman that has betrayed me? Love her to the point I can't marry another?"

"Because it's juts that. You love her. Sometimes love is a powerful force you can't escape from."

"I guess you and Ava are proof to that. I just don't know what to do about it."

"Follow your heart. As much as you can be a clotpole, you still choose the right answer usually."

"Thanks Merlin." He turns to leave, but the king feels obligated to say something. "I will give you two time to find a home, no matter what the others say."

"What do you mean?"

"The council forced her hand. She had to give up her title."

"Well thanks."

He leaves the king alone with his thoughts. After some consideration, he comes to a conclusion on what to do. It is the only thing that seems right in his mind. The only decision that would be fair, not only for him, but Mithian as well.

~~~

Everyone gathers outside as the foreign princess prepares to leave. Arthur had called off the marriage last minute last night. The heat beats down on the on lookers. Merlin places a hand on Ava's back, as if to steady her. Mithian locks eyes with the king.

"I truly am sorry for wasting your time," he tells her. "All the disputed lands are yours."

"Just like that?"

"Well I figured neither of us care for a war and I feel guilty for the problems I have caused you."

"Who is it that has your heart? She must be of such nobility. What crest does she bare?"

"None. She is a blacksmith's daughter."

"May it work out for you," Mithian smiles. "I would also give up everything for love."

The princess leaves with her traveling party. Everyone starts to scatter off except for the Pendragon siblings and Merlin. Ava places a hand on her brother's shoulder.

"You did the right thing," she promises him. "It will be better for both of you."

"I hope you are right."

He heads back inside, leaving the couple behind. They sit down on the steps. No one near them, allowing the two to talk.

"Why didn't you tell me about them forcing you to get rid of your title?" he asks. 

"Because I am still processing it. In the past few years, I have gone from Lady, to Princess, to a regular person. That and so many other changes. I wanted to let you know when the time was right. I was also afraid on how you would feel."

"Well it won't change anything between us. I love you no matter your status."

She wipes away a few stray tears, smiling.

"Honestly?"

"Honestly."

He pulls her close and she lays her head on his shoulder. They will have to find somewhere before the child is born, that is for sure. But she will worry about it later today.