#high honor arthur hears this.... is desperate to make peace... is desperate to do something good before he leaves

[trashiest-rat]

Ashes To Ashes. Dust To Dust. Ch4

Howdy hey again! It feels like it has been far too long since I have posted! Last week was finals week (college) so, I was swamped! But good news! I passed all my finals and classes with flying colors! Summer is now upon us so hopefully I will be able to write more! As always comments and criticisms are welcome! No beta reader we pass away. Enjoy!

Quick authors note: I DO NOT use Ai when writing. I will never use Ai when writing. My work is mine and mine alone. I do not condone my pieces being used to train Ai either.

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

AO3 link:

Pairing: High Honor Arthur x Female Reader! Use of (Y/N).

CW: period typical violence, sexism, implied racism, and reader gets beat up.

The heart aches when it does not have a home, it aches it is alone, and it aches when it has no family to call its own. For all these reasons your heart aches.

Stepping down the stairs of the McCain office for the last time, that prickle starts behind your eyes. A floodgate threatening to open. You had been here for a better part of 9 years living as their assistant. They were the closest thing to a family you had. Being as they we’re the only people you really talked to. But they weren’t truly family. The relationship was still built upon transactions and business. Business came first. It always did.

Reaching the door to the office, you let out a long, drawn-out sigh. You weren’t coming back here. The best you can hope for is to find Arthur and stay with the VanderLinde gang for a little while. You can make yourself useful with your medical skills and perhaps a few others.

You pack everything you have into Hermes saddle bag. You never had much as you were always travelling for the McCain’s. But the fact that it fits into the horses saddle bag with no issue sits in your mind like an old wound that just won’t heal.

You grab Hermes’ reins and walk around Valentine like a lost puppy looking for Arthur or anyone from the VanderLinde gang.

You hear the commotion before you see it. Panicked yelling spills throughout the small town of Valentine. Your newfound “friend” (can you call him that?) seems to be at the center of it all.

 You cautiously approach the situation as it looks like a bomb is about to go off.

You’re about to ask “what the actual fuck” is going on.

Before you can even manage the first word, the man asking about Arthur’s whereabouts takes off like a bat out of hell.

Arthur turns around, surprised to see you again. He can’t ask why due to the pressing situation. He just gives a questioning glance up to Hermes and you nod, handing him the reins. Giving Hermes a pat and “Go boy!” Arthur mounts up and chases after the man who couldn’t keep his questions to himself.

You yell after Arthur, “Bring Hermes back in one piece! He’s got all my shit!”.

Soon you find yourself napping on a bench outside of the saloon. You haven’t slept great the last few days, so a quick afternoon nap was something you desperately needed.

Your peace however, is soon interrupted by Arthur and Hermes.

You feel your hat being slowly taken off your head and your hands shoot up instinctively to try and grab it. You miss miserably. You’re still half asleep trying to process what’s happening as you hear Arthur laugh at you. Rubbing the sleep out of your eyes you see him holding your hat out in front of you.

“You’re one hell of a deep sleeper (Y/N)!”

You can’t help but groan as you stand up to face Arthur. You allow yourself one big stretch before recoiling. Everything hurts. Whether it was your age or the fact you slept on a bench you can’t tell.

“Gimme my hat Morgan.” You yawn, reaching for your hat with no luck as Arthur is keeping it just out of reach.

“Or what (Y/N)?” Athur drawls playfully.

You rack your brain on how to get your hat back. There was no way you could grab it as you were far too short and tripping Arthur was out of the question.

“How ‘bout a truce? You give me my hat and I buy you a drink?”

Arthur mulls over the proposed truce for a second before agreeing as he “Can’t say no to a free beer.” He shoves your worn hat on your head in a playful manner.

However, your teasing and sunny demeanor soon fades. As the thoughts of needing to call in that favor begin to stir.

Arthur notices immediately.

“What’s on your mind (Y/N)?” Arthur asks. He can’t help but be concerned at your attitude switch.

“I need to call in a favor Arthur.” Your voice is quiet.

“Which favor (Y/N)?” Arthur chuckles trying to keep it light.

You stare at him blankly trying to figure out what he means.

Arthur continues. “The favor for saving me, Jack, or the fact you wouldn’t take money, favor?”

You sheepishly look up from under your hat at him and just say “Yes”

Arthur’s face darkens as his hand hovers over his gun belt. “Who needs shooting?”

He was ready to kill a man under your accord.

Your eyebrows shoot up in surprise and you immediately go to speak. “Jesus Arthur! No one needs shooting! I just need a place to stay!”

Arthur’s posture softens and he can’t help but laugh as he pinches the bridge of his nose.

“That’s it (Y/N)? I thought I was gonna have to shoot some son of a bitch! I’ll have to ask Dutch of course but having a doctor with us wouldn’t be too bad.” He shoots you a wink.

You feel your cheeks heat up immediately. You duck your head and laugh as to save some face in front of the outlaw.

He offers you a hand. You take it pulling yourself off the bench.

“So, how about that drink?”

You both head inside of the saloon.

It is a whirlwind of activity. There’s music, both drunken and professional, talking, and far too many people milling about.

Then it hits you. The smell. It is a god-awful mixture of vomit, sweat, and animal shit. You can’t help but gag.

Arthur nudges you with a smile. “Not a saloon person (Y/N)?”

You shake your head. In truth you didn’t like saloons very much. Too many damn people with too much booze. If you had a nickel for every patron who got into a fight that ended up at the clinic, well, you could buy a damn mansion in New York.

Two men stumble their way through the crowd of people to meet you and Arthur. And boy are they drunk.

The louder one introduces himself first as Javier. Taking your hand in his and kissing your knuckles with a flourish.

You are caught off guard by this grandeur gesture and awkwardly laugh and thank Javier for his politeness.

You can’t see the venomous look Arthur shoots Javier over your hat. But Javier sure does. He immediately lets your hand go and straightens up. Mumbling a sorry.

Charles introduces himself next. He’s far quieter and far less stupidly bold than Javier opting to offer a small wave.

Arthur then turns to introduce you. “Charles, Javier, this is (Y/N). She’s the doctor that helped Jack. She might be staying with us for a while. So, don’t do anything stupid.” 

You can’t help but think the “don’t do anything stupid.” is directed more towards Javier than Charles.

The group soon finds a corner booth in the saloon where you can all hear each other without having to shout. Javier and Charles on one side, You and Arthur on the other. The boys all order beer as Javier and Charles start to grill you. Asking all manners of questions. ,.lllIt seems fair as you are hopefully going to be staying with the gang.

Arthur finishes his one drink before standing up to go. “Gonna talk to Dutch. I’ll be back.”

You offer Hermes again to be polite before you are immediately shut down.

“No way (Y/N). That horse is mean as shit. Asshole kept trying to bite me.”

You knew Hermes well. He’s only mean if you don’t baby him.

“Did you tell Hermes what was going on?” You tilt your head and giggle at the thought of Hermes chasing Arthur around trying to bite him.

“I ain’t talking to a damn horse!” He drawls in teasing anger.

You give him a shrug. “Suit yourself.”

Javier and Charles watch the interaction dumbfounded. Never had they seen Arthur be so playful with someone. Let alone a woman.  The interaction makes Javier think back to your introduction. The look Arthur gave him earlier clicks in his head immediately. A wide smile breaks on the man’s face.

“Well take good care of your new amiga Arthur!” Javier says with a smile and wave. Charles nods towards Arthur in an unsaid “I’ll make sure nothing happens.”

The men turn toward you and start asking questions again. Trying to feel out what kind of demeanor and skills you bring to the table.

It isn’t long before they’re even more drunk and wander over to the poker table in the saloon. You sit outside the table just to watch.

That is until you see both men get cleaned out by a slimy man across the way. He takes the boys for all they’re worth. Not before making some remarks about them.

You pull up a chair in between the two men and asked to be dealt in. The man from across the table shakes his head stating, “No women at the table.”

With a quirked eyebrow you can’t help but rebuttal. “Afraid to lose to a woman?”

The man sputters as the rest of the table laughs at his expense. He’s pissed but, you have won. With more venom than a rattlesnake, you are dealt in.

Charles and Javier lean back in their chairs and talk around you, not paying attention. That is until you start winning.  

Arthur has now arrived back accompanied by someone else. Before he can say anything to you, Javier shushes him and points to your ever-growing money pile.

The table groans as you win the money back and then some.

You lean back in your chair with a shit eating grin.

“And that is why you don’t underestimate a lady!”

You know it’s time to stop after your quip. As much fun as it is, you don’t need to start a fight. You scoot back your chair and thank the table collecting your winnings. You hand Javier and Charles their original money back and pocket the rest.

This pisses off the man who cleaned them out in the first place.

“You can’t give them their money back!” He drunkenly shouts over the table.

You put your palms on the table and lean in meeting his gaze.

“It’s my money now I can do what I want. Or do I need to sit back down and take more of your money.”

This shuts up the whole table. This sleazy, greasy man was the one in charge. And of course you had the gall to actually challenge him.

Before it can escalate you flash the revolver on your hip.

The slimy man huffs and sits back down mumbling something under his breath.

The boys follow you back to the booth as you sit down and count your newfound cash with a toothy grin. Your attention is taken away from your money counting as a chair scrapes across the floor. A huge man sits down at the end of the table.

The individual Arthur brought with him is Bill. He’s a big burly man in personality and looks but nice enough. He makes sure to compliment your poker skills at least.  

You continue the conversation with everyone. Arthur confirms Dutch is okay with you being the newest addition to camp “as long as you pulled your weight.”

Bill goes to grab a beer from the bar. It’s not even five seconds after his departure that you hear yelling from across the saloon. Bill arguing with another patron.

“Does he want to punch him or kiss him?” Javier jests.

This gets the whole table laughing. However, it is cut short by Bill throwing the first punch.

You sigh as you know where this was going. “It seems we got our answer boys.”

The bar erupts into a fight. Like a coiled rattlesnake finally going to attack.

Javier, Arthur, and Charles all shoot up from the booth to help an outnumbered Bill.

You, however, stay in the booth. There was no way you would win in a fist fight against anyone. That was never your strong suit. All you could do was look for an opening to leave.

You see it. The bar patrons are all occupied with either fighting someone or hiding like you were. With a sprint you scramble towards the saloon doors.

The doors are just within reach.

Then you feel the back of your collar being yanked. With a yelp you are thrown against the wall. In your daze you make out that the man from earlier has you pinned. Panic floods your mind as you try to squirm out of his iron grasp. Before you can escape you are punched. Again, and again and again. Stars cloud your eyes as your vision swirls.

Your body thuds against the ground suddenly, and a groan escapes your mouth. You can’t tell which way is up or down. Everything is spinning in confusion and panic.

You feel yourself being lifted what you think is up and fuck does it hurt.

Charles is supporting your small figure and leading you out the saloon doors.

The doors creak open to an overstimulating amount of light and noise. It’s blinding to all your senses, and it takes you a second to adjust.

When you do you wish you had stayed in your ignorance.

Arthur is beating a man bloody in the street as a crowd watches and cheers. Rage clouds his eyes and judgement. 

You manage is a squawk resembling Arthur’s name and stop.

He looks up at you leaning onto Charles worse for wear. Your nose is bleeding, and a black eye is beginning to form. The man below him, held by his bloody shirt is suddenly let go.

In an instant Arthur is grabbing you from Charles and putting you on his horse. He unleads Hermes and tells him to follow.

The men follow his lead, and all climb up on their respective horses.

You can’t feel anything aside from Arthur’s presence holding onto you from behind. It’s soothing.

You start to feel yourself slip into unconsciousness slowly slipping off the side of Arthur’s horse.

Before you fall, you are jerked to the other side to sit on the horse properly.

With every bit of will power you have you manage to stay awake during the ride to camp.

Everyone dismounts their horses. Before Arthur can help you down, you fall off. The feeling of being weightless makes you giggle before you are caught by Arthur.

The camp is a whirlwind of activity trying to get everyone patched up and examined.

You’re carried into a tent and laid out on a cot.

The tables are turned as instead of you doing the examination, you are being examined by Miss Grimshaw.

Miss Grimshaw is pissed.

“How did you heathens, let our doctor get beat up?”

She’s chastising the men outside of the tent. Craning your neck to get a better look, they all have their heads hung like guilty school children.

Miss Grimshaw turns back to you and pushes your head back down.

“Nothing’s broken (Y/N). Just a bloody nose and a black eye. Take a day’s rest. But after that you’re pulling your weight!”

Even when you’re injured, she’s still strict.

Miss Grimshaw finished with her examination huffs and pushes past the people huddled outside the tent.

She demands they “find something useful to do before she does.”

All you hear is the shuffling of footsteps in what you believe the crowd dispersing.

After a few minutes, Dutch and Hosea make their way into the tent. Dutch welcome’s you to the camp with a loud cheerful attitude despite the beating you just endured.

You recoil at the sheer noise of Dutch’s voice.

Hosea offers him a soft look as he puts his hand on his shoulder. He whispers something you can’t hear.

Dutch’s demeanor changes as his voice softer now. He gives you a brief explanation of how things work at the camp. As well as what your role will be.

You give a weak thumbs up in understanding.

Satisfied both men leave.

You can’t help but wonder if there is something more going on between those two.

You finally let yourself get some rest, closing your eyes.

Arthur pulls you out of your sleep as he gently shakes you awake.

You are groggy at the sudden awakening but manage to fight through it.

Arthur makes sure you are awake before he starts talking.

“I wanted to check on ya earlier but, Miss Grimshaw was making sure you were alright.”

He’s trying to keep the tone light as he continues.

“I brought you some stew. Figured you were hungry.”

You hadn’t thought about it, but you definitely were now that food was mentioned.

You attempt to sit up groaning and cussing up a storm all the while. Arthur is about to help you but you shoo his hand away. It takes a moment, but you get there.

You turn, swinging your legs off the side of the cot. A bowl of stew is gingerly put into your hands. It warms your fingers through the bowl.

Shoving some food into your mouth you can’t help but sigh as it warms you up.

A question pops into your mind mid bite.

“Have you eaten Arthur?” You ask through a mouthful of stew.

He shakes his head in response. This upsets you greatly. How was he going to take care of you but not himself?

You stop eating and give him a stern look.

“Go get some stew.”

He’s about to protest but even with a black eye your look is stern and stubborn. He just sighs, deciding this isn’t a battle worth fighting.

He leaves the tent and comes back a few minutes later with his own bowl of stew.

You pat the other side of the empty cot beside you and Arthur sits down. There isn’t a lot of room on the cot so, your shoulders are touching as you both eat.

You finish your stew and table the bowl. Looking to Arthur who has also finished you table his bowl as well.

“Better?” you ask.

Arthur nods. He didn’t realize how hungry he was.

You begin to fidget with your fingers as a query comes out. It had been bothering you all day.

“Arthur are we friends?”

He is surprised by the sudden question. You look at him with your head tilted in curiosity and trepidation.

“I would think so (Y/N). Why? Do you not want to be associated with me?” He says this figuring you wouldn’t want to given the fact you got the shit beat out of you because of the gang.

Your look turns into something sorrowful as Arthur beats himself up.

“Arthur, I do want to be friends.” You say quietly. “I’ve never really had any before.”

You look down in shame at this admission. You were 29 years old worried about friendship.

“Sorry it’s silly forget I asked.” You say with a wave of your hand.

Arthur is more focused on the fact you didn’t have friends. Why wouldn’t anyone want to be friends with you?

“Whaddya mean you ain’t had friends before?” Arthur questions.

You continue to look down and sigh, “Pa was a doctor, and I wanted to be one too. So, I would watch him treat people and take notes. Sometimes when I was little, he’d let me treat people if it was simple like a cold.” You chuckle dryly at the fond memories and continue, “Turns out people don’t like being friends with the weird girl who yaps about blood and organs.”

Arthur gives you a sympathetic look. “I wasn’t popular either (Y/N). Being a rambunctious little shit with a stealing habit don’t help.”

You look at him squinting trying to imagine a younger version, “I’m sure you weren’t that bad.”

Arthur just chuckles and shakes his head. “Before Dutch and ‘Sea’? I was bad. Real bad. Angry too.”

You knew that feeling. Being angry at the world for how it has wronged you.

“I was an angry kid for a few years too.” You say quietly.

“I try to make it up to her by being kind now. You know? Like somehow it might heal that little 18-year-old girl.”

You both bask in silence. In the quiet understanding of how the world was not fair.

You break it with one more question.

“So, we’re friends?”

“Yeah, (Y/N). We’re friends.”

[deaadcrush]

the speed, the rate with which arthur just Opens Up to rains fall.... friendship ended with dutch now rains fall is my dad

[mca-attack21]

The Beginning of Something

This imagine is based super loosely off of Season 5, Episode 8. It can be read as a stand alone, but will definitely be continued with at least five more parts as I rewrite the ending of the show. That being said, get ready for the rollercoaster of emotions that is Merlin. Also, you can find more of my writing: Here.

Tensions had been high with Arthur as he was struggling with a decision. He had come to find out that another ruler, Sarrum, had similar aims when it came to Morgana. As much as he hated it, he knew that there could never truly be peace in Camelot, or even in Albion for that matter until she was stopped. Sarrum was known for his boundless cruelty and double-crossing nature, but Arthur was becoming desperate and you know what they say about desparate times...

As Arthur was working through this troubling decision, he took it out on the one person unlucky enough to almost always be at his side. So when Gaius told Merlin that he needed him to go get some herbs and plants, Merlin was out the door glad for an excuse to escape the castle before he killed Arthur himself and ended his destiny once and for all. He understood that Arthur was under a lot of pressure, but he didn’t have to be such a clotpole about it.

Merlin was out looking for the last of Gaius’ herbs when a young dark-haired boy all but ran into him. 

“Woah, who are you? And what are you doing out here by yourself?”

“My name is Daegal. I have been sent by the druids to find you, my sister is dying,” the boy spoke showing Merlin his mark. 

“How did you know where to find me?” 

“I could sense your presence.”

“Where is your sister?” Merlin asked.

“She is at camp just shy of the Valley of the Fallen Kings. Please, you have to hurry, she does not stand to survive past the night.”

“What exactly is wrong with her?”

“She has a terrible fever and it is something beyond our magic. Please, Merlin, you are our only hope.”

Merlin was conflicted as he knew that this was risky. He also knew that Arthur would need him by his side in order to get through the meeting with Sarrum the following day. But he couldn’t stand by and let an innocent girl die when there was a possibility that he could help. 

“We need to leave at once, I need to be back in Camelot by nightfall,” Merlin spoke. 

“Of course, thank you.”

“I can’t make any promises to save your sister, but I will do everything in my power. The druids have helped me before, they are a welcomed ally,” Merlin replied as he packed up his belongings.

The two of them walked on, spending the rest of the morning and the better part of the afternoon making their way to the place where Daegal said the druids were camped. It was as they neared the camp that Merlin heard bandits approaching and reached out to Daegal with his mind to warn him. The boy carried on as if he hadn’t heard Merlin and Merlin was forced to all but tackled him so that they were not found out.

“Did you not hear me?” Merlin asked.

“No?” Daegel replied looking at Merlin as if he were crazy, “Come on, it isn’t much further.”

Merlin brushed off an uneasy feeling that was staring to form and followed Daegel. They reached the clearing, and Merlin tossed his bag down before turning back. “There is no one here,” he stated the obvious.

Daegel opened his mouth as if to say something but could not find words. He was beginning to wonder what his choice in bringing Merlin here would mean.

“Why have you brought me here? What is this?” Merlin interrogated sternly.

“I can explain,” the boy said fearfully.

“You are not even a druid,” Merlin realized lifting up Daegel’s sleeve to confirm. 

“She told me to bring you here,” Daegel tried to explain. 

Before Merlin could confirm that the ‘she’ Daegel mentioned was indeed Morgana he was thrown back and knocked unconscious. 

“Why are you doing this?” Daegel asked. 

“Because, Merlin has meddled in my plans one too many times. I only wish I could see his face as Arthur meets his demise at my hand,” Morgana revealed as she poured a dark liquid down his throat and pushed him over the ledge. 

“Are you really going to kill the king?” 

“Bite your tongue. You have done your part here and you would be wise to forget it. Here is the antidote your sister requires, now get lost.”

And with that Morgana left to set the rest of her plan in action. Daegel took one last look at Merlin before leaving to return to his family. 

Back in Camelot:

“Gaius, you said Merlin would be back by lunch and now it is past dinner. Where is he?” Arthur asked clearly frustrated.

“I truly do not know Sire, but I am beginning to become worried.”

“Where did you send him?” 

“I sent him out just beyond the creek. It should have taken him 4 hours at the most there and back,” Gaius explained worry evident on his face.

Picking up on this, Arthur’s expression softened, “I am sure that he is fine Gaius, probably just taking advantage of the break from me. If he does not turn up tomorrow I will send out a search party for him.” 

“I hope you’re right,” Gaius said as Arthur took his leave. 

Meanwhile with Merlin:

The first time he regained consciousness, Merlin struggled to breathe through the pain he was in. He attempted to use his magic to try to heal himself, but he was too weak. The exertion proved too much for him and everything around him faded to nothing.

The next time he awoke, he was both disoriented and confused. He had clearly been found by someone as a cool rag now rested on his brow and his wounds had been treated. He had been laid near a fire, food and water were both in his reach.

He peered around for any indication of who had helped him, and realized that he recognized where he was. He had been brought back towards Camelot. Before he could deduce anything else he heard someone approaching. He forced himself to sit up, which was a task in itself. He then try to mentally prepare for whatever was coming.

But instead of bandits, Morgana’s men, dangerous creatures, or anything else that could be considered threatening, it was just you. Merlin was surprised to say the least. Not that he had really thought about it, but the idea of someone who appeared around his age who had helped him... as he looked at you, he felt safe and connected to you in some way. It was as if he had known you his entire life, and he didn’t even know your name.

“Ah, take it easy, I mean you no harm. I come baring fish,” you smiled at him.

“Are you the one who did all of this?” he asked gesturing to his bandages and the water/food.

“I am, usually you would’ve been healed by now, but the poison that Morgana used in combination with her magic was a force to be reckoned with.”

“Who are you?”

“A friend. Some know me by Phúlax, but you can call me Y/n,” you said before turning away to use your magic to cook the fish and offering it to him. 

“You have magic?” Merlin asked in awe.

“Yes, I was born with it,” you answered offering him one of the fish, “You need to eat, and then rest, you have been unconscious for over a day and we are still about an hour from the castle. Morgana and the queen intend to kill the King tomorrow and bring a great war to Camelot.”

“How do you know that?” Merlin asked.

“I know a lot of things Merlin. I promise I will answer all of your questions in time, but for now I just need you to trust me,” you answered.

“I guess I don’t really have a choice,” he joked.

“You do, Merlin, you always have a choice,” you spoke voice turned serious for a moment before you snapped out of it, “I am sorry, I am just tired, you aren’t the easiest person to keep alive,” you replied light-heartedly.

“If you think I’m bad you should try being the manservant of the king,” Merlin joked which caused you to laugh.

“Is he really that bad?”

“He can be a prat at times,” Merlin paused, “But at the end of the day, he is one of the best men I have ever met. He is fiercely loyal, believes in equality and justice, valor and honor. Camelot is lucky to have him. And it is an honor to serve him,” Merlin reflects.

“He is lucky to have such a loyal friend,” you add before taking his plate from him, “Get some rest.”

“Y/n,” he called as you began to walk away.

“Yes, Merlin?”

“Thank you.”

“Your welcome,” you smiled, turning your back once again. 

You cleared away everything and packed up your bags before walking over and covering Merlin with a blanket. You layed across from him and just watched as he slept peacefully. He had been so close to death, and to see him now you wouldn’t even know it. You were glad that he was alright. Eventually, you too drifted off to sleep.

Back in Camelot:

“I’m sorry to bother you Sire, but I wanted to inform you that Merlin has still not returned. I fear something terrible may have happened,” Gaius spoke after having been let in to Arthur’s chambers.

“I will send out a search party,” Arthur spoke growing concerned about his friend.

“What is this?” Gwen asked walking over.

“Merlin still has not returned, so I am sending some of the knights out to search for him,” Arthur explained.

“Oh dear, I knew I should’ve said something. Arthur I feel terrible, but he made me promise not to tell anyone. I know where Merlin is,” she returned.

“Where?” Gaius asked.

“He has gone to visit someone. He isn’t in any danger. He’s just seeing a girl,” Gwen explained.

“Merlin?” Arthur laughed in suprise.

“There isn’t any reason to worry, I promise,” Gwen smiled.

“Except for the poor girl,” Arthur joked.

“Thank you your highness, you’ve put a worried mind at rest,” Gaius bowed before exiting the chambers.

“Now then, it is time to begin preparing for the signing ceremony,” Arthur said relieved.

Meanwhile with Merlin:

“Merlin,” you spoke softly as you shook him slightly.

“Hmmm?”

“It is time to get up, we must head for Camelot,” you reminded. 

He groaned before sitting up and rubbing the sleep out of his eyes.

“Here, have some breakfast. I’m going to refill the water canisters and then we can be on our way,” you smiled handing him an apple and some bread. 

When you returned you were pleasantly surprised to see that Merlin was packed and on his feet ready to go. The two of you started on the path in a comfortable silence before Merlin’s curiosity got the better of him. 

“Tell me about yourself,” he suggested.

“Okay, what do you want to know?”

“Everything. I mean where are you from? Why are you here? How did you discover you had magic?” 

“Slow down Merlin,” you laugh, “I was born in camelot. When I was very young my mother was discovered healing a child who was meant to die. The king found out and…” your sentance fell as you thought back. 

“I’m so sorry,” Merlin said genuinely.

You took a deep breath and continued, “My father quickly snuck me out and to a small village just outside of Camelot. We lived there, I was able to practice magic in secret. Everything was going fine until Morgana showed up searching for me. I had never even heard of her, but there she was calling me by a name that a friend of mine who was a Druid used,” you paused again.

“I was going to turn myself over to her in hopes that she would spare the others, but before I could I was knocked unconscious. I woke up in the woods with the survivors and discovered that my father had not made it. I left them partially in hopes that Morgana would not strike again, and partially in shame that I did not stand up for them. I decided to head back to the only other home I have known, where I will search for a job and try to create some semblance of a life. On my way, I discovered you,” you explained a few tears betraying you.

“It wasn’t your fault,” Merlin spoke with certainty, “Morgana would’ve tortured you or killed you.”

“Still, I should’ve done something. When you have powers like ours, it is our responsibility to help those who can’t help themselves.”

“How did you know that I had magic?” Merlin asked.

“I can sense it, it flows through every fiber of your being. You have this resonance of power. It’s like we are connected.”

“I have never met anyone like you,” Merlin said as he smiled in amazement. 

“You barely even know me,” you reply turning away from his face.

“I know that you are kind, and brave, and good,” he thinks for a moment before adding, “and beautiful.”

You can’t help but blush, “Thank you, Merlin.”

“What about you, is there anything that you want to know about me?” he asked.

The two of you continued to talk until you reached the courtyard. There were moments filled with laughter and moments of true sincerity. It was like you were old friends merely catching up. Like both of you were drawn together somehow.

As you entered the castle, you were both on high alert not knowing exactly what to expect. Merlin searched for Arthur before discovering that a door that was meant to be locked was left open. Having a gut feeling, he lead you up the staircase. There was a man with a crossbow who aimed for Arthur. He immediately noticed you and shot at Merlin who was slow to react. You shifted the arrow using magic. The man seemingly unphased threw knives at you instead. You tried to use your magic but it was to no avail. 

You barely managed to pull Merlin out of the way in time. Taking advantage of your brief distracted state, the man reloaded the crossbow and aimed for Arthur once again. Merlin used his magic to jar the man and knock him out. The shot meant for Arthur instead hit Sarrum.

“Leon, Gwaine,” Arthur ordered them to check out the source of the arrow. 

“We did it,” Merlin turned to you smiling. But as quickly as it had graced his face, the smile fell. For you were still on the ground with one of the knives in your stomach. “Y/n, just hold on, I can fix this.”

“It is one of Morgana’s, no magic can be used against it.”

“Well then, we will just have to fix it the old fashioned way,”  he smirked before leaving over the balcony. 

“Gaius, I need you to meet me in the infirmary at once it’s urgent,” he yelled.

“Merlin?” Arthur questioned quick to follow Gaius out of the door.

Merlin then picked you up bridal style and carried you back to Gaius’ chambers. 

“I’m glad I met you,” you whispered already feeling much of the strength leaving your body.

“Well, there is a lot more to see, so just hold on,” Merlin said.

Merlin ran into Gwaine and Leon at the bottom of the stairs but he didn’t stop even as they were calling after him. Once inside, he swiftly used his magic to clear off the table and laid you on it. Just then Gaius and Arthur came rushing in. 

“What happened?” “Who is that?” Gaius and Arthur asked at the same time.

“Her name is Y/n and you have to help her Gaius,” Merlin said voice full of emotion.

“Of course,” the physician said starting immediately to work. 

“Is there anything that I can do?” Merlin asked. Gaius gave him a list of instructions and he completed each one quickly and without question. Arthur just stood and watched not knowing how to react. It wasn’t long before they had done everything that they could and it was just a matter of time. 

Upon reaching this point, Arthur calmly asked for an explanation of what had happened.

“I went out to get herbs and before I could do anything else, I was trapped by Morgana. She had left me for dead, but then Y/n found me. She took care of me and brought me back here. I knew that Morgana was planning something, so we rushed here and found the overlook door open. We went up and found a man who was aiming a crossbow at you. He threw a knife at me and she pushed me out of the way. I was then able to charge him, but the shot still went off,” Merlin explained. 

“So it seems that she has saved your life twice and now mine, when she wakes she will be rewarded,” Arthur responded impressed, “I must get back to the proceedings, please move her into the guest chambers and keep me appraised of her condition. Merlin, I trust that you will stay with her and see to her needs,” Arthur said sending him a knowing look.

“Of course Arthur,” Merlin replied. 

“Oh, and Merlin,” Arthur started.

“Yes, Arthur?” 

“I am truly glad that you are back in one piece,” he finished, pulling the door closed behind him.

“As am I,” Gaius added pulling the young warlock into a hug. 

As they pulled away, Merlin was quick to carry you up into one of the fancy guest bedrooms. He laid you down and covered you with the blankets. Guias entered behind him.

“Did anything else happen while you were gone that you couldn’t speak so freely about in front of Arthur?”

Merlin glanced into the hallway before using his magic to close the door earning a glare from Gaius. 

“She’s like me, she was born with magic,” he eyes lite up. 

“Really?” Gaius asked.

“Yeah, the druids call her Phúlax. I can’t explain it Gaius, but I have never felt this connected to someone before. 

“She is Phúlax?” Gauis asked with reverence. 

“Yes, why? Does that name mean something to you?” 

“You know how your destiny has been foretold for many generations?” Gaius asked and Merlin nodded.

“Phúlax means protector. Though she is known by many names. Some that may stand out to you are, the Servant’s Guardian, Arthur’s Chance, Protector of Emrys, or Rewriter of Destiny. It is believed that she would arrive at the beginning of the end, and that she would be at your side to turn the end into the beginning,”  Gaius explained. 

“What does that mean? And why have I never heard of her?” 

“No one truly knows what the prophecy means. Just that she is an important ally in your story. And I would assume that those who know of her are protective of her identity for the same reason they are protective of yours. Because if Morgana found her, Albion would fall.” 

Merlin had more questions, the most important one being, “So she is going to be okay?”

“Her wound was not fatal, due to the nature of the weapon, she simply has to heal at a normal rate. That being said, she should wake up by morning,” Gaius answered before getting up to leave the room. 

Gwaine entered as he exited, “Merlin, it’s good to see you. I’ve been searching the taverns for you in your absence,” he winked.

“Good to see you too, Gwaine,” he laughed.

“I just wanted to see how you were doing after earlier,” Gwaine said taking a seat beside his friend.

“Well, in the past three days I have almost been killed twice, so you know just another day in Camelot,” Merlin tried to joke.

“Are you alright?” Gwaine asked seriously. 

“I will be fine,” Merlin promised. 

“And who is this beautiful lady?” Gwaine asked trying to lighten the mood.

“I’m afraid she is off-limits,” Arthur spoke from the doorway carrying a plate of food. 

“What? Why?” Gwaine asked.

“Because Merlin here has dibs,” Arthur grinned. 

“I...We….She is…..I mean…” Merlin struggled.

“Oh, look at him he is getting red as a tomato,” Arthur said bursting into laughter.

“Our little Merlin has a crush,” Gwaine grinned, “If you need any advice,” he winked at Merlin before getting up and seeing himself out. 

Arthur took his place at Merlin’s side. 

“Did you really have to do that? I’m not going to hear the end of this,” Merlin rolled his eyes at Arthur. 

“Consider it payback for all of the times you teased me about Guinevere. Besides, I think that it’s a good thing,” he decided.

“I brought you this, along with some news,” Arthur said handing Merlin the plate of food. 

“What’s the news?” 

“Should she want it, I have decided to offer Y/n a position as Guinevere’s lady in waiting. I figure that she has shown her loyalty and you clearly trust her. I trust your judgment. And, this will give you an excuse to see her in the castle,” Arthur explained.

“Really? That’s incredible. I can’t wait to tell her. And to introduce the two of you.” 

“Just remember this when it comes time to chose a best man,” Arthur joked. The two of them continued to talk for a while before Arthur decided it was best that he return to the knights as they were preparing for a trip. 

Merlin was trying to work through what Gaius had said, and how he felt. It was silly to think that he could love someone that he had only just met. But there was no other word for it. The thought of working with you, getting to know you better, spending time with you, it was all exciting for Merlin. Especially having another person that he could talk about magic with, someone who truly understood him. 

He was so caught up in his thoughts that he didn’t even register the fact that you were awake.

“Merlin?” you tried to sit up, but the pain that rippled through you decided otherwise.

“Hey there, take it easy. It’s okay, you’re safe,” he smiled taking your hand without even thinking, “Do you need anything? Water? Food? I can go get Gaius if you’d like?”

“I’ll be fine Merlin, I’m glad you and Arthur are safe,” you smiled.

“Speaking of Arthur, I’ve got some news for you,” he beamed, “The King was so thankful that you saved his life that he has decided to give you the highest honor he can bestow.”

“Oh? And what is that?”

“He has graciously decided to make you his wife’s servant,” Merlin replied rolling his eyes. 

“That’s brilliant! It solves my problem of finding a place to stay and finding a job in one fell swoop,” you smile. 

“There is one problem though,” Merlin said seriously.

“What is it?”

“We will definitely be seeing a lot of each other,” he grinned.

“You had me worried,” you said as you smacked his arm.

“I am going to go tell Gaius and Arthur that you are awake,” he decided. 

You watched as he left, you felt so relieved that things were falling into place. You were happy to meet Gaius and the King, who made not-so-subtle jokes about Merlin’s affections for you. Merlin looked like he was about to kill him, which made you laugh all the more. You already felt at home here. You couldn’t wait to see what the future held for you in Camelot. This was truly the beginning of something special. 

[darlingsdevil]

The Ballads of Rebirth (Arthur Morgan x Reader)

Chapter 8: On a Sunny Day There was A Railroad Car

Peep this song,, from my favorite musical, inspiration for this chapter :’) | here

Masterlist

A/N: Updates will be much slower from here on out, my apologies, probably one chapter once a week, usually on Friday or Saturday nights! I’m going to be very busy this upcoming couple of months!

Feedback is very appreciated! Have any questions about the story so far? My asks are always open!

•••

Lee was distant. Even in your shared bed, it felt like sleeping next to a stranger. His kisses felt like he was imagining something else. And all you could do was watch.

He would brush you off when you would ask if he was okay. Lee’s father was the only one who acted normal, like his diagnosis had never happened. The only thing that ever gave away that Lee’s father was sick was the occasional pain in his side that caused him to nearly double over. You were glad Mr. Rinascita was living in the now, and not like he had received his death sentence.

Mr. Rinascita had once told you, “A person cannot get any sicker by being happy.”

And perhaps that was true, and perhaps that was what made Arthur’s death more bearable. Arthur wasn’t happy in his last few days, and he had kept you at an arm's distance, even though he embraced everyone else. He had lived his life with you and it was time to live his life with those he had pushed out. Arthur loved you more than he had loved anything else, but to lessen the pain of his death was even more painful than his actual passing. But you had found someone who eased that pain further, a man who brought butterflies to your chest every time. You had buried Arthur, and you were hoping Lee would not have to bury his father like you had.

Arthur was your man for so long, he was your beginning, and you had been his ending. But Lee was your ending. You loved two wildly different men, from two wildly different periods of time in your life, and for that you were grateful, to have the opportunity to love two men who loved you so dearly.

One night though, about a week and a half after the diagnosis, Lee was rather loving, like a switch had been flicked and he had returned to his old self. You were closing up the store after a particularly slow day, and he came right to your side.

You eyed him suspiciously, while he snuck quick glances at you, averting his eyes everytime you noticed him looking. You shyly smiled, watching as his handsome face became flustered.

The late March setting sun fell through the windows, creating a warm glow that covered the entire store.

“My dad wants to see us get married, before he, uh, you know..” He trailed off, setting the broom on the counter. You stared at him, stunned, feeling suddenly very strange.

Your eyes followed his every movement, not finding words. He nervously fidgeted with his hands, regretting his bold actions.

“I.. I was just thinking maybe..” Lee sighed, leaning against a shelf that held candy. Lee had a sweet tooth, you stopped putting butterscotch out on the counter because Lee would just eat it all.

“Gosh, this is hard.” He laughed, glancing over to your frozen stance, but only for a moment, it was only for a second that his dark eyes fell upon you, as if he would look too long and you would crumble underneath his gaze.

“My dad sure as hell doesn’t have all day, and there’s no use in waiting,” Lee walked over to you, painstakingly slow. He stopped mere inches from you, and you could almost hear his heart beating wildly against his chest.

He looked nervous, more nervous than when you saw Arthur a year before in this same position.

“I know we haven’t been together for long, but I think you’re the one I want.” Lee’s strong hands cupped your face, and you gingerly closed your eyes.

“Would you, Mrs. Morgan, do me the honor of marrying me?”

Joy filled your heart. Excitement, love, a thousand things.

The ring was beautiful, a gold band with a small diamond in the center.

“You can love me even though I was an outlaw? You can love me even though I’ve already been married?” Tears sprung to your eyes, that reflected the diamond in his hand.

“I would still love you if you broke my heart a thousand times.” He whispered, bringing you in for a passionate kiss. It felt like home, it was intoxicating, but safe and warm. There’s no other place you’d rather be than with him.

When he pulled away, you nodded vigorously, he slipped the hand on your right hand, as Arthur still owned your left, and Lee respected that.

“I love you.” You told him, he wiped away your tears, leaning in for another kiss.

•••

Arthur booked the first train to Richfield, which fortunately left a few days after receiving the letter. Charles had wrote a response to John, but it would take awhile for it to get to Detroit.

Charles knew he would be gone a max month, if he did find you. If he didn’t it would be a week. Arthur promised Charles, and Charles knew Arthur would honor that promise to the best of his ability.

Their goodbyes were hasty, as they would be seeing each other soon.

Soon enough, Arthur was on the train, watching Charles give him a small wave as they sped off to Richfield.

Arthur was nervous and excited, so to ease his fiery nerves he drew in his journal. The early morning sun fell through dusty windows, creating warm rays that washed over his skin.

He wondered how you would react to seeing him, or how you reacted to his ‘death’. Arthur knew he hadn’t been the best to you in the days leading up to the breakup of the gang. He hoped you forgave him, and understood why he acted like that. It wasn’t right, and he knew that, but he didn’t want to hurt you even more.

It would take around a day to get to Richfield, he’d always been the one robbing trains, never thought he’d be actually on one.

•

People came and went, before he even knew it the train had arrived in the Richfield station. He had fallen asleep a few times during the ride, and his legs ached from sitting. The dazzling city less than a mile away. It reminded him of Saint Denis, the city he had learned to despise. His heart lurched, you were somewhere inside this city, waiting for him to find you. It was early in the morning, around four. He was sure you’d be sleeping by now.

•••

Lee kept you up all night.

Which meant when he finally fell asleep, you were still awake lying on the bay window, overlooking the city, listening to your fiancé’s soft snores. He slept just like Arthur, out like a light the second he fell into a bed. It was around four, the sun had not yet risen or even poked out from the horizon. Mr. Rinascita had given you both the day off to celebrate your future union. Your plans were to go to the pier again and walk the boardwalk like you had on your first date. Mr. Rinascita was ecstatic, and he nearly jumped up and down at the news, even though he was the one who told Lee to propose.

He always looked so peaceful asleep. The sound of his calm breaths while asleep were exceptionally soothing. You could fall asleep next to him forever.

But tonight, despite how you adored falling asleep next to him, you felt like watching the streets.

You hadn’t seen the ghost of Arthur since you had first shared your feelings with the man you loved now, it was a wonderful sign though, that you had healed enough to no longer be haunted by him. But you feared you had begun to forget how he looked, you couldn’t quite remember how his eyes looked when the sun caught his eyes, or how his laugh was when he was tipsy. You had begun to forget, and that was terrifying.

The locket that held your two most precious men was illuminated in the morning moon. The pearl’s iridescent color popped in the cool lighting, you remembered when Abigail had given it to you. You hoped they would send you a letter soon, but truth be told, you hadn’t checked in awhile for any letter.

Abigail promised she would write to Charles. Sadie hadn’t written to you either, but she was probably busy with her new job. You would visit Charles soon enough, and bring Lee along. It was time he met a part of your family.

•••

Arthur took a carriage to the nearest hotel. He wasn’t a fan of staying in hotels, but this week was a special occasion. The carriage driver was grumpy, tired and drove wildly. He would have walked but he didn’t know the lay of the land here and would undoubtedly get lost, so he decided not to risk it.

It was next to the doctor’s office, post office, a bar (which he’d no doubt end up in) and a general store, when he quickly passed by, he noticed a woman looking through the window above the general store, which was odd considering the time. The hotel was cheap but clean and looked as old as dirt, as did every other storefront on this street. Apparently, it was the oldest street in Richfield, long before the city had become industrial.

When he hit the rickety old bed, he was out like a light, and soon his soft snores filled the quiet air. The hotel was vacant, but the walls were paper thin, and they listened to the man who was desperate to find his wife. The walls wondered how he would react.

•••

You heard the clicking of horse hooves on the cobblestone pavement, a carriage. It was odd to see a carriage out so late, but it stopped outside the hotel, so you assumed the train had arrived late.

Toying with the locket, you unfortunately accidentally woke Lee up. His snores hitched, and you heard him sit up. You turned to face him as he rubbed his eyes.

“Come back to bed.” He mumbled, his arm outstretched, inviting you back to the bed. You removed yourself from the spot on the window, your nightgown falling onto your bare knees. You crawled in next to him, and he fell back into the bed next to you, and he had fallen asleep faster than he had woken up.

But this time, you welcomed sleep, and it washed over you like the waves of the river Richfield sat next to.

•••

Lee took you to the pier at noon, the sun was high above the clouds, making the air warm and inviting. It was Sunday again, and the pier was nearly deserted. Most people still at lunch or in a late church sermon, so the pier was less crowded than any other day.

Lee held your hand, feeling his ring on your finger. He took you to a small candy store that sold ice cream and bought you some. He bought you your favorite and he had gotten strawberry. The pink color of the ice cream complimented his eyes when he put it up to his lips, you couldn’t help but admire those precious eyes you had learned to love.

The first place Arthur visited was the bar, knowing you would have caused some sort of mischief there at one point or another. But when he gave the bartender your name, he was just as clueless as Arthur was. The bartender had seen you walking the streets a few times, but you had never came into the bar itself.

Next was the post office, since they weren’t legally allowed to tell him if you had any mail, all the postmaster had said was that you had been here a few times, but they hadn’t seen you for about two weeks. Arthur felt relieved knowing you were still likely in the city.

You walked to the end of the pier with Lee, remembering your first date with him. It was so strange, not even a year later and you were already engaged to a wonderful man.

“I love you.” He told you, his hand grasping your own.

“I love you too.” You smiled, looking out towards the dazzling waters.

•••

A week had come and gone, and Arthur’s train would leave within a few hours, it was his last chance. You had definitely been here, recently too, he just needed to find you first. He was desperate to find you, he needed to.

The woman at the front desk had become friends with Arthur, and she had become disappointed every time he walked through that door without you. She had kept a close watch on the street while Arthur was away, keeping an eye out for a woman that fit your description.

He’d have to buy some supplies for his journey back home, as the food in his hotel room had slowly disappeared. Arthur decided to go to the general store, a place he hadn’t yet checked. He assumed you would have lived some place near the water, and not need to go so far to get groceries since there was a new general store right by the pier.

It was cloudy and raining. It was almost as if it were April, where the rain never stopped to help grow the May flowers.

He hastily ran to the general store, as a crack of thunder shattered from behind him. The rain fell off of him, and he wished he still had his hat. You always said that hat was your favorite.

Arthur pushed open the door, a small bell signaling his arrival.

“Welcome in sir, how may I-” You faced him.

“Arthur?” Behind the ghost, the sun peeked through the clouds.