Lady of Magic

XXVIII

The village finally grows into view, causing Ava to smile. She is worn down and ready to crash. She heads on down towards a familiar hut. A familiar girl runs out, worried.

"Gwen?" Ava asks. She practically falls into her arms, unable to keep herself upright. 

"When is the last time you ate or slept?" 

"A couple days ago. Camelot was attacked." Hunith hurries out and helps Ava inside. "Is Merlin and Arthur here yet?"

"I haven't seen them since the wedding. You need food and rest."

They set the weak woman on the bench. Gwen rushes to draw water while Ava's mother-in-law give her some bread. The  redhead gratefully eats what is given to her before exhaustion fully takes over.

"Why don't you go lay down," Hunith smiles. "Get some rest. The others should be here soon."

"Thank you so much."

She goes to the bed and lays down. Sleep soon over takes her, throwing her into a battle. This time, in the castle and not on a field. But her mind can't make out too much details. Especially when she feels the blankets shift around her. This wakes her up, ready to fight if need be. A few inches from her face is Merlin.

"I didn't mean to scare you," he laughs. She tries to steady her heartbeat. 

"I'm so glad you're okay."

The young couple kiss each other quickly, knowing there was a chance they weren't going to see each other again. They pull away as Merlin remembers something. He pulls her dagger from his belt, handing it to her.

"I think this was your's," he smirk. She chuckles, attaching it to her belt. He pulls her up and they go to the others. Laying on some blankets is an injured woman. Beside is some man, holding her hand. Arthur is sitting at the table with his face in his hands. The moment he notices his sister, he stands up and hugs her. She pulls away and looks at what he is wearing.

"Why do you look like a turnip head?" Ava laughs.

"Ask Merlin," he responds. She looks at her husband, who is trying not to laugh some. She pats the king's shoulder before he goes to change. Ava goes to the two new people.

"Do you mind if I take a look at the wound?" she asks. "I have trained with a physician." 

The man moves so she can look. Easy to conclude a sword cut based off of width and depth of the gash. She grabs a bucket of water and cloths to clean and bandage her up.

"You're lucky," the redhead smiles. 

"How so?" the blonde asks.

"The wound is shallow and no signs of infection. I'm Ava by the way."

"Isolde," she responds. "The grumpy man there is Tristan."

"I guess I have to two of you to thank for my husband and brother's return."

"So the stories are true than," Tristan chimes in. "The princess married a serving boy and gave up her title. I assume your brother's orders."

"No. The Council actually ordered that. Arthur was not pleased about it."

She is actually shocked the news has traveled this fast already. Arthur returns, this time in chainmail and proper fitting clothes. He seems upset about something. Gwen enters the home, also upset. She goes to check on Isolde. Ava goes outside to see Hunith working on some chores.

"Can I help you with anything?" she asks.

"No. I am almost done. I'm glad to see you on your feet again. Been asleep for most of the day."