hi again, happy v day lover girls, here’s some wlw ♡
♡ ♡ ♡ ♡ ♡
18+ pwease, not Merlin accurate, just imagine u and morgana are lovers and do lover girl things together :D
/)_/)
(⸝⸝ >.<) < !
o( 𐭩❤️
so like try not to imagine only being able to see and smell Morgana’s long, wavy hair and it being the first thing you think to tug on whilst she’s using her mouth to bring you to the edge again n again
the silk sheets clinging to the sweat coating your neck and lower back as her nose nudges against your ‘cute, little pussy’- a term she often whispers into you.
and imagine it’s early morning Valentine’s Day and just as she’s bringing you to the edge for the third time, she starts her teasing questions..
‘Are you going to be my Valentine, sweet girl?’
‘Making such a lovely mess for me, that must mean you love me, right?’
‘C’mon, don’t leave me alone on Valentines Day, I want you all to myself today…’
And of course you can’t answer, she keeps dragging her tongue up and down your slit, keeping you pressed right against her face with her arms wrapped right around your thighs :(
So you just whimper and whine for her until you come and once you’ve found the ground again, you drag her up to your lips, her long, clean smelling hair creating a little curtain where you, very giddy, accept her proposal of being her Valentine’s ♡
summary : what do they do when their crush is oblivious of their feelings.
word count : 0.5k
type : headcanons
pairing/s involved : Arthur Pendragon / Merlin / Morgana Pendragon x Reader
warning/s : it's kinda sad on Merlin's part (at least for me).
here is my masterlist!
Arthur Pendragon
Arthur would be clueless as you are, maybe even worse.
The prince of Camelot wasn't raised to process his feelings properly (no thanks to dear old daddy), so he thinks his infatuation is under the pretense of friendship.
Many find it hilarious. Everyone knows how much Arthur loves you... except the two of you.
He just doesn't understand why he's always wanting more than the platonic affections you give him, yearning for you when you're not around, or thinking about you all the time.
Don't get me wrong, he knows he enjoys your company. Both his whole world and time stops when he's with you; the heavy responsibilities of the crown and endless problems are temporarily forgotten.
Arthur also feels the need to impress you, sometimes more than Uther. He already likes showing off to a crowd but when you're watching him? There will be 1000x more effort.
"Why do I feel this way, Merlin?"
"You are in love with (Y/N), clotpole."
"Oh. I suppose you're right."
"Is this the moment where you order me to get her flowers?"
"...Yes."
Merlin
I'm sorry but Merlin prefers it that way.
As much as he desperately wants to to straight up confess to you— to be able to touch you, kiss you, and love you openly, he doesn't want to put you in danger.
Apart from a secret that will get him executed, he deals with dark entities all the time and those will eventually catch up to him. He can't risk it, especially if it's you.
There will be a lifetime of labor and hardships if you choose to be with a manservant. Being with a druid will likely get you hurt or killed too. You deserve better than what he can offer. You deserve better than him.
His feelings for you may not be obvious as Arthur's but for people who are perceptive (ehem Gwen maybe?), they will encourage him to court you. He'll only reply that there's no use and you'll never see him as something more than a friend, especially if you're a noble or royalty.
However, Merlin is only human. There will be times when he can't help himself, giving you small gifts or favors he won't do for anyone (even Arthur).
"Thanks for the help, Merlin."
"I would do anything for you, (Y/N)."
"Why?"
"Uhh... Cause we're friends, right?"
Morgana Pendragon
Morgana will make you her own amusement.
Best believe she will test you, to see how long can you remain unaware of her feelings. It entertains her to no end, better than the performers Uther hires in banquets.
She will go all out— giving you all sorts of touches that's reserved for lovers, bringing you expensive presents, always spending time with you, and even kissing you in both public and in private.
Morgana will search for any reaction on your face every time. But you just continue to innocently smile and thank her for being a 'good friend'.
Everyone thinks you two are dating because of her public display of affection but you shrug it off whenever someone asks you about it. Morgana, on the hand, just smirks and winks.
If it takes too long and she begins to get impatient, she will just knock on your door and confess her love.
"I am in love with you, (Y/N)."
"You are?"
"YES! How can you be so blind—"
"I thought we're just friends?"
"HOW IS MAKING OUT WITH YOU, PLATONIC?"
Until then, she and Gwen will be laughing at your obliviousness as they enjoy their afternoon tea.
I finally finished the Morgana/Reader fanfiction I was working on! So proud of this one, so hopefully everyone else enjoys it too! Warnings for skippable smut, no usage of Y/N, and some pretty crazy lore changes
Title: To Love a High Priestess
Fandom: Merlin (TV) [2008]
Ship: Morgana (Merlin)/Reader
Summary:
When you first met Morgana Pendragon, you had no clue who she was.
All you knew was that she was gorgeous and the most powerful person you had ever met. You had quickly learned her trust issues also eclipsed the sun itself.
Now, if only you could figure out why The Mórrígan has brought you two together.
…
Or, my 21k+ word essay on how if Morgana had a girlfriend, everything would have gone well for her. Also featuring a bit of smut, made-up lore, some minor bits of historical accuracy, and a brief look into the consequences of Emrys deciding that Arthur was more important than the Old Religion he embodied.
Summary: Male!R is Merlin's brother. When a girl has her eyes on you, it makes Morgana jealous that you would smile at her. Surely when you rarely smile. Immediately calling for your brother, she wishes to speak with you. Once in her room, you are greeted with pillows and harsh words. Accusing you and pouring her heart out about her feelings to you. Surprised you walk up to her, kissing her. Having felt the same, but never thinking she did.
Horses strutted on the cobble stone as the knights rode out. One of the horses sat your brother, waving you goodbye. You rose your hand with a polite smile, to return your brother’s greeting. – “Merlin!” – Arthur would call out for him to keep up. Merlin smiled sheepishly at you before catching up with Arthur. Gwain chuckling loud how Merlin responded like a dog to Arthur’s calling. You returned back to your work, unsaddling one of the horses. You set all the material aside to clean later.
Taking the horse by the reins, you started leading it over the cobble stone across the square to the water benches. You barely noticed it till the girl moved in front of you. – “Morning Y/n.” – she said. A sweet smile on her lips, hands giddily behind her back. You simply looked at her, leading the horse around her. The girl turned round, rushing over to keep up. – “May I accompany you Y/n?” – she asked. – “If you must.” – you answered not really caring for it. She came falling in step with you. – “I’ve seen you at work Y/n.” – she started as you kept quiet. Focused on your work.
You arrived at the water benches, tying the reins up around the wooden pole. The horse started drinking from the basin as you patted it on the shoulder. You went around the horse as she moved underneath it’s head to reach you faster. – “You are really strong.” – she commented as it made you quirk your eyebrow up. – “I guess.” – you answered not sure what to say. You bend down to pick up a bucket. Scooping some of the water in it. Taking a step back, you splashed some water onto the horse to get some of the mud off.
The girl jumped back to not get splattered. – “Say Y/n I was thinking…” – she started looking carefully around where she could step to keep her shoes clean. You grabbed a brush, combing the horse to get the mud off it. She came closer once more as you rather just did your work. – “My bed needs mending.” – she called out, making you stop. – “What?” – you asked unsure what she meant by that. – “My bed needs mending. It’s been shrieking almost the entire night. I think it might break apart.” – she went on.
“What does it have to do with me?” – you replied continue to brush the horse. – “Your handy Y/n, can’t you fix it?” – she asked. – “It is a fine opportunity to see my room.” – she added. – “Why would I need to see your room?” – you replied clueless. The girl giggled giddy. She started to come closer, touching your chest. – “To clean it.” – she responded sarcastically, surely meaning something else.
You couldn’t follow why she was even laughing at that. – “You… you want me to clean your room?” – you responded. The girl clicked her tongue. – “No, I want you to do something else.” – she spoke with a wink. It made you stare confused at her. She started laughing at her own pleasure, already imagining being in one room with you alone. Feeling uneasy, you simply started to smile back, not sure what she meant.
Up in her room was Morgana. Pacing around waiting for Gwen to appear. She neared her window, her gaze catching something quickly in her passing. It made her stumbled back to her window to be sure. It was true. Seeing you down below on the courtyard. Through the glass, she thought she could see you smile. Something you rarely did, even around her. Morgana pushed her window open to be certain. Leaning a bit out of her window, she watched the display. You smiling at a girl. Her gaze lowered, feeling drained off all her happiness.
Feeling the ache in her heart that you were smiling at someone else as she rather wished it was her. Wishing it was her down below, smiling upon you. Blessed with a smile in return from you. Her heart thumping loudly in her chest with yearning. Yearning for your affection. Her yearning changed her self-pity to jealousy. Sharpening her gaze, she hated the girl. Repulsed you for smiling back at her.
There was a knock on the door as Gwen entered. – “Morning My lady.” – Gwen spoke holding a towel. – “Your bath is prepared My lady.” – she curtsied for Morgana even though she wasn’t looking. Morgana turned around sharply. – “Delay the bath, I want Merlin in here!” – she let out. Gwen blinked confused at her lady. – “Merlin? My lady he is out riding with Arthur.” – Gwen informed her.
Morgana tensed her jaw. – “When he returns from hunting, you bring him immediately up to me! I have to speak with him!” – Morgana demanded, dismissing Gwen. Gwen bowed her head, leaving the room. Morgana returned to the window, wanting to see you again.
To her surprise you had left. Even the horse was gone. Probably stabled. In anger and annoyance she paced around. Waiting for Merlin to arrive. Gwen waited at the castle door waiting for the knights to return. They rode up the courtyard. Gwen lifted the hem of her dress up, running over to them.
Arthur already ascended from his horse. – “Gwen lovely to see you.” – Arthur addressed her as she ignored him in a hurry. She rushed over to Merlin who was about to ascend from his horse. – “Morgana requires to speak with you.” – she let out, holding the horse by the reins. Merlin looked confused back at her. – “About?” – he asked her.
Gwen had no answer for that. – “Just hurry.” – she grabbed him by his elbow, pushing him towards the castle. Confused and slightly worried went Merlin up to her quarters. He knocked at her door, waiting for her to tell him to enter. He entered cautiously. – “You… you wished to speak with me?” – he said, seeing her stand by the window, arms crossed.
“Yes.” – she answered bitterly. – “Tell your brother to come up here.” – she told him. – “Scuse me?” – Merlin said confused to the reason for him to come. Morgana turned more to him. – “Bring your brother up to here, did I make myself clear Merlin!” – she called out in fury.
Merlin bowed. – “Right away, My lady.” – he answered. When he left the room, he wondered why he needed to come just for that. When she could’ve easily called for him herself. Merlin went to the lower parts of the castle. Gaius quarters where he knew he’d find you. You were playing a serious game of cards with Gaius when Merlin entered.
“Morgana needs you.” – Merlin said upon entering. – “Me?” – Gaius questioned, pointing at himself. Merlin came sitting at the edge of the table. – “No Y/n.” – he nudged you. – “Me? Why?” – you wanted to know. Your brother shrugged his shoulders. – “I am simply following orders.” – Merlin spoke as you got up with a loud sigh. Quietly you went up to her quarters.
With a knock, you announced yourself. – “You called.” – you said in a low voice already entering half. Morgana groaned loud as you got surprised by a pillow. It startled you, hitting you against the arm. – “What was that for?” – you asked confused. Morgana grunted loud, throwing another pillow at you. This time aiming for your head as you needed to duck down to avoid it.
“You shameless prick!” – she shouted at you, throwing another pillow. Turning your posture away, you let your shoulder catch the pillows. – “You utter horse’s arse!” – she screamed out, making you widen your eyes at her insults. She threw another pillow at you as you ducked down as it went just over your head.
“How dare you toy with my feelings so much! To think I love you while you flirt with other girls. Well I hope you never smile again in your life!” – she screamed out. – “What?” – you called out, pausing, receiving a pillow against the head. – “You don’t feel sorry do you! Of course you don’t! Why would you!” – she blamed you searching around for another pillow as she had thrown them all from her bed.
In the moment of peace within the storm, you got in motion. Walking up to her. Morgana’s eyes widened when you neared, turning her posture more to you. Tilting your head a bit, you placed your hand on the back of her head. Bringing your lips closer to her to kiss her. Your lips kissed her to lead her into a soft kiss.
Morgana inhaled sharply through her nose, grabbing you by the shirt to deepen the kiss on you. Leading you into a more passionate kiss. Your hands held her by the waist, enjoying the kiss to it’s fullest. Both of you broke the kiss off, out of breath. – “I…I had no idea… If I knew Lady Morgana, I would’ve told you I loved you desperately long ago.” – you confessed to her.
Morgana’s eyes widened. – “I never knew… I thought you didn’t felt the same.” – you added. Morgana grabbed you by the shirt once more. – “I sure do.” – she breathed out before pressing her lips to yours again. – “If I ever see you smile at another girl, you will regret it.” – she warned you, having broken off the kiss for a moment. Her warning made you gulp soft. Her eyes twinkled when you curled up a smile to her. Blissful, she kissed you again, losing her mind over that smile of yours.
A/n: Here is my masterlist purely filled with my Merlin fanfics majority has been written now, quite literally, years ago my writing has improved significantly. To those who sent me requests for Merlin I love and appreciate you all!
summary: as you continue to hide the truth about your identity, your final round is against the Prince of Camelot himself.
warning/s: mentions of violence, injury and kidnapping.
author's note: so glad you’re all enjoying this one! here’s the second part 🥰
one / three / four / masterlist / wattpad
The next few fights went about as smoothly as the last one did, but without a doubt I pulled through and eventually made it to the finals. Morgana didn't tell anybody about who I really was, which I was very surprised at, and I toned down my flirting with her massively. Partially for the fact that she now knew it was me, and also because it certainly wasn't impressing Uther. I couldn't risk it, especially if he found out the truth about me.
When I found myself facing off Arthur in the final match of the competition, I was nervous to say the least. Everybody wanted their future king to win, of course, but I only wanted to see if I could beat him. He was the best of the best, but I could be, too. Couldn't I?
After the King made a short speech that essentially hinted at Prince Arthur kicking my butt, the fight began and I was thrown into the deep end. He only fought with a sword, as did I, and we both had many close calls, pinning each other down with ease. This fight was the longest I'd had with anybody, the blonde proving to be quite the challenge. But unlike his other opponents, I was keeping up with his every move.
He was bigger, physically, which made it easier for me to sneak around him, avoiding his sword. When his did clash with mine, he had the upper hand with strength. But it didn't take long for me to use his own strength against him and flip him over me. Before I could make the winning strike, he rolled off the ground and pulled his helmet off, throwing it to the side like it was a mere inconvenience. I swallowed hard, keeping mine on and trying not to let his focused expression deter me.
He stalked toward me, swinging his sword with might and keeping me on my toes. I didn't falter under his constant strikes, but my arms were growing tired with his considerable speed. My only option was to disarm him, and when he least expected it, I managed to flip his sword out of his hand and land it my left one, immediately holding him at the end of my sword. He froze, jaw clenching when he realised I'd got him stuck, and everybody waited for me to make the final strike. After all, there were no rules.
But I was no villain, and I gave him a curt nod before dropping both of my arms, lowering both swords. He pressed his lips together but nodded respectfully, accepting his defeat. The crowd erupted into cheers as I tossed him his sword back, and then I began to smile to myself because I'd done the impossible. I'd beat Arthur Pendragon.
When I turned to see the King's reaction, he did not look impressed in the slightest, still seated and staring at us both with shock. Morgana, on the other hand, was stood up and clapping with amazement, grinning down at me. I waved at her, grateful, and then glanced at Prince Arthur who was now smiling graciously.
"You did good," he said over the noise of the crowd, and then smacked my back with pride, but it was a lot harder than I expected and I tipped forward at the force, my helmet flying off before I could catch it.
I froze, my eyes widened with panic, and the crowd went quiet in unified shock. I feared looking up, but when I did, Arthur was staring at me with a slack jaw.
"You're a girl?!"
I looked up at the King, only to see the pure anger and shock written across his face. I facepalmed mentally, knowing I was screwed.
Y/B/N and I were kneeling before the King as he yelled at us about how we had made a fool of him, Camelot's traditions and everybody who took part in the completion. I tried to pay attention, but all I could think about was how close I'd gotten to winning. So close, yet so far.
"...and I could have you banished from Camelot forever!" he was saying, pacing back and forth before us.
Arthur was stood behind him, still in disbelief that I'd beaten him, and Morgana was there too, listening to his verdict. Once he'd finished, she suddenly stepped forward.
"My lord, was it really that bad? Maybe Y/N just wanted to compete," she tried to reason with him, but he wasn't hearing it.
"Women can't fight!" he snapped at her, and I resisted the urge to roll my eyes.
"This one can," Arthur mumbled.
I fought a smile from my lips, which Y/B/N detected and nudged me with warning. Uther was glaring down at us both, irrationally angry.
"You," Arthur suddenly said, looking down at me, and I met his gaze. He seemed conflicted. "You're extremely talented. Nobody has ever bested me."
I wasn't sure what to say, so I stayed quiet.
"It's not right what you did," he said thoughtfully, "but it wasn't fair that you couldn't compete in the first place."
"Arthur!" Uther scolded him.
"Father, a win is a win," Arthur said in a pleading tone. "She deserves the prize and the praise!"
"The whole of Camelot cannot see their future king be beat by some– some woman!" Uther said with disgust.
"But I was!" Arthur argued right back, certainly surprising me. "And that's okay!"
"No," Uther muttered, before pacing again. A silence fell upon us as he decided what to do with us. And then he stopped suddenly, beginning to relax. "We will tell everyone you saw her hair before she disarmed you. That you faltered at the deception and couldn't beat a girl. That you let her win."
At this blatant lie and disrespect, I looked up. "But that's not–"
"You can keep the prize money if you keep quiet," he said to me with a scowl. "Fair?"
I blinked, swallowing hard.
"Father, that's an outright lie!" Arthur disagreed before I could answer. "What's the harm if they know the truth?"
Uther glared at him. "I don't expect you to understand." His gaze fell back to me. "So. Do we have a deal?"
I frowned, glancing at Y/B/N. He mirrored my frown, but nodded. I sighed then nodded to Uther.
"Deal," I agreed reluctantly.
Relived that the discussion was over, Uther nodded. "Finally. Good. I tire of this."
Not sparing us another glance, he walked past us and out of the throne room. Arthur sighed and nodded to my brother and I.
"Please, stand," he said. We did, and he continued, "I'm sorry. Y/N, you should've been able to fight as is. It's a shame no one will know the truth of your abilities and talent."
"Maybe you can change that when you become king," I said disappointedly. "For now, this will have to do."
He rubbed the bridge of his nose with discomfort. "You'll both still be attending the banquet this evening. At my invite. It's the least you deserve after winning."
"We'd be honoured, my lord," I said with a nod.
"Great," Arthur said, relieved. "I shall see you tonight then."
We both bowed respectfully before leaving the throne room, following the knights out of the castle. Once we were finally alone, Y/B/N and I embraced with relief.
"I can't believe you beat the bloody prince," he said with a pride-filled smile.
I laughed, the overwhelming joy of it all – winning and somehow getting away with it – getting to me. "I did."
He pulled me into his side as we began to walk through the city. "So, what are you gonna do with the prize money?"
"What are we gonna do with it," I corrected him. "I couldn't have done any of this without you."
"But we were caught," he reminded me.
I shrugged. "Doesn't matter."
He smiled. "Maybe we can buy some clothes for the party tonight. Got to look our best after all, don't we?"
"Not a bad idea, brother, not a bad idea at all."
Despite Arthur having invited my brother and I to the party this evening, Y/B/N and I still felt a little unwelcome. Word had spread about my deception, including how Arthur had let me win – a story I really hated but knew I couldn't argue – so many eyes were on us when we entered.
"You sure you don't want to leave now?" Y/B/N asked, half joking.
"If I can't get the credit, I can at least enjoy some free food," I retorted, making him smile.
Before we could even think about where to start first, a servant boy approached us with a friendly smile. I recognised him, certain I'd seen him waiting after Arthur throughout the week.
"Y/N, congratulations on your win!" he exclaimed. "Your fighting was just incredible. Not many people can beat Arthur, but you just..." He made a punching gesture with hand, amazed.
"Thank you, but as I'm sure you know, Arthur let me win," I told him, managing not to grimace at the lie.
He snorted as if he didn't believe it. "Right. Well, either way, you're a very talented swordswoman."
I smiled for real, appreciative of his compliment and also the fact that he seemed to believe I'd won by myself and not by Arthur's right.
"Merlin, stop bothering my guests please," Arthur suddenly came out of nowhere, patting the servant boy on the back.
The servant, who I now knew was called Merlin, rolled his eyes playfully before shooting me a final smile and leaving us be
"Y/N, Y/B/N," Arthur said, eyes falling to us. "You both look great. Do enjoy tonight. I've already told my father not to bother you. It's your night as much as anyone else's. Especially mine."
"Thank you, my lord," Y/B/N said, nodding his head, and I nodded, too.
"We appreciate it," I added.
Arthur pursed his lips, staring at me for a moment longer than usual, before mumbling to himself as he walked away, "Beaten by a woman."
My smile grew as I sensed he still wasn't over the defeat. Even if nobody else knew, it was still enough to know I could actually do it.
"C'mon, let's go get a drink," Y/B/N said, already heading towards the table full of drinks.
We both grabbed a goblet each, cheering to my win subtly, before taking a sip. Talking about what we might do next, we almost didn't notice Morgana approaching us.
"Y/B/N, Y/N," she greeted with a warm smile.
"My lady," Y/B/N returned, bowing respectfully, and I followed suit.
"Please, it's really not necessary," Morgana said in jest.
Y/B/N and I exchanged smiles, knowing it was, but we didn't want to offend Morgana and say otherwise.
"I'm going to track down some food," Y/B/N suddenly said, and he shot me a look before leaving Morgana and I alone. I supposed I was grateful he did.
"I never got the chance to say it before," I started, meeting Morgana's gaze, "but thank you for sticking up for me earlier. With the King. You didn't have to."
At the reminder, her smile faded slightly. "I did. I'm just sorry you were caught. You almost had everyone fooled."
I smiled disappointedly. "Yeah, well... Arthur has been too kind, letting me off so easily."
Morgana glanced out at the prince as she spoke, "He has a good heart. Better than his father's." After a moment, she looked back to me with a sad smile. "I'm sorry nobody will know good you really are. It's not fair."
I shrugged, downing the rest of my drink before putting the goblet to the side. "I'll know. That's enough for now. It's all people like me will ever get so... I'll take it."
Her eyes softened. "You deserve more, Y/N."
I didn't know what to say, and stupidly enough, her attention was making me more nervous than usual. I avoided her gaze, hoping my face wasn't turning pink.
"So, what will you and your brother do now?" she asked curiously. "Stay in Camelot perhaps?"
"I would have loved that," I admitted, "but it's probably not for the best. What with the King wanting to kill me and everything."
She rolled her eyes, suppressing the urge to laugh. "A bit dramatic, Y/N."
I tilted my head, quirking an eyebrow. "Is it?"
This time, a laugh escaped her and, gosh, it was quite literally music to my ears.
"You have a pretty laugh," I told her, and this only served to make her hide a shy smile as she looked away. I admired her for one of the last times, before answering her previous question. "Y/B/N and I will figure something out, I'm sure."
"Involving a sword?" she asked playfully.
"No doubt," I agreed. "I love it too much."
She nodded. "Good. A talent like yours deserves to be used."
I exhaled quietly, insides warming at her words. "Thank you, Morgana."
"Where did you learn to fight like you do, may I ask?"
"My father taught Y/B/N and I when we were young," I shared, surprised she'd asked. "We were farmers in our village, but it was raided one day. We had to leave and fighting was all we had afterwards. I took to it better than Y/B/N, but he is plenty good with a sword, too."
"Where are your parents now?" she asked.
"They died in the raid," I said awkwardly, unsure how to say it without sounding like I needed her pity.
Frowning, she shook her head. "I'm sorry to hear that."
I shrugged. "Don't be. It doesn't make me sad to talk about it. Honest."
She looked between my eyes, smiling sympathetically. "I'm sure they'd be very proud of you and how good you are a fighter. Or at least, to know you beat the Prince of Camelot."
I smiled, which soon turned into a laugh when I realised she was trying to lighten the situation. "I hope so."
"It's unfortunate you'll be leaving after tonight," she said with a disappointed sigh, "but I do hope our paths will cross again soon. I was beginning to take a liking to you, Y/N."
My own smile widened, my heart fluttering a little at her words. I bowed once more, saying, "My lady." And when I put out my hand, she gave me hers and I kissed the top of it gently. I looked up and saw she was smiling down at me, green eyes bright and dazzling and making me second guess leaving Camelot.
Suddenly, somebody moved into the side of me, forcing me to drop Morgana's hand and straighten up. I realised it was Y/B/N, looking unimpressed.
"Seriously? In front of everyone?" he muttered, referring to my overtly flirtatious behaviour.
I couldn't help but laugh, too overjoyed to care. "Everybody is distracted by the party."
He grumbled to himself before the two of us faced Morgana. She was tempted to laugh at our encounter, but hid it behind a smile.
"I'll miss the both of you," she admitted, looking between us. "Good luck with what's next. And enjoy tonight."
Y/B/N nodded, smiling appreciatively, and I let my eyes linger on hers for as long as she'd let me. As she turned and walked away, I watched after her dreamily, wanting so badly to grab her hand and whisk her away.
"I wish I could ask her to dance," I said with a sigh.
"You're so stupid," Y/B/N said, used to my behaviour when I was like this.
I grinned, looking at Morgana once more before letting Y/B/N drag me away to find some food. I was certain I'd never forget her, no matter where I ended up.
6 months later...
"We seriously need to invest in a good horse," I complained to Y/B/N as we trekked through the forest. "My feet are giving out on me."
"All you do is complain," he said disapprovingly. "The exercise is good for us!"
I rolled my eyes, adjusting the cotton mask tied around my head and covering my nose and mouth. "Tell that to my swollen feet, mate."
He chuckled beside me, his eyes creasing over his mask, the only indication in addition to his obnoxious laugh that he was amused. "I promise that I'll pay extra for a nice hot bath at the next town so you can soak your feet. Sound good?"
I grumbled to myself as I used my sword to cut away at an annoying branch. "You better bloody do. I'm too young to be limping like I–"
"Shut up!" he whispered suddenly, cutting me off.
I fell quiet, detecting the seriousness in his voice, and my ears perked up to hear what he had. There were male voices in the distance, too far for us to make out specifics. I kept my sword in hand as Y/B/N unsheathed his quietly, exchanging looks.
"Could be bandits," he muttered with caution.
"We'll avoid that way then," I told him, sticking to our usual plan.
He nodded in agreement. "There's a way that leads around the stream and will–"
But he was cut off by a short girlish scream, followed by grunting and laughter. My expression hardened when I realised the bandits must have taken someone, an innocent woman no doubt. We couldn't leave her to fend for herself, and as soon as my gaze met Y/B/N's, he was already nodding in agreement.
"You got your knives?" he asked, looking as peeved as I did.
"Uh-huh. Let's go teach these arseholes a lesson."
The two of us moved quickly and quietly, having moved around in these woods for long enough to know how to keep silent and blend in with our surroundings. The bandits' voices grew louder as we approached and we realised it was a small camp. There were a few tents set up, a campfire in the middle and half a dozen or so men hanging about, either sharpening their swords or having a quick drink.
Y/B/N and I waited, eyes taking in the scene to see what we were dealing with. Seven men were present, with three standing on the outskirts and keeping guard and the rest milling around the camp. I scoured the campsite for any sign of a woman, certain I'd heard one, and that's when my eyes widened at a familiar sight.
Y/B/N grabbed my arm, signalling that he could see her too. It was the Lady Morgana and her handmaiden, the two of them bound with rope and sat back to back on the ground. Their clothes were dirty and raggedy, like they'd put up a fight, and there was a single bandit circling them like a predator does with its prey. His sickening smile put them at unease and I so desperately wanted to slice him to pieces there and then, but we had to be tactical.
Tugging me back, Y/B/N motioned for me to follow him. We backtracked, a fair distance away so that we could coordinate quickly.
"How did they get here?" he asked what I was thinking, before shaking his head. "Never mind. We need to get them out of here. If they've managed to kidnap the King's ward and have set up camp, that means they're making a trade."
"I know," I said with discomfort. "We can make this quick and there'll be nobody left. No trade."
He nodded in agreement. "Okay, so this is what we're gonna do..."
After discussing a quick plan, Y/B/N and I split up to circle the camp on different sides. He was dealing with the bandit guarding one side, whilst I dealt with the other two. Thankfully, we didn't have to get close just yet as we had throwing knives. All I had to do was line up my shot and...
His body hit the ground like a sack of potatoes and I immediately moved onto the next guard. This one was trickier considering he wouldn't stand still, constantly pacing. I almost had my throw perfected when there was a shout on the other side and both the bandit and I turned to see what it was.
"We're under attack, you idiot, help!" one of the bandits called to my target, and I groaned inwardly, knowing Y/B/N had been unfortunately noticed.
Running forward, I was able to take one bandit by surprise as the six others tried to circle Y/B/N. I stabbed one with ease before they began to realise there was two of us, and then I was suddenly fighting three bandits at once. The past six months of taking up odd jobs, plus years of training with a sword, put me at an advantage and I was able to move around without faltering once. In under a minute, all three of them were either dead or bleeding out. Y/B/N had managed the same and we both let out a deep breath, lowering our swords.
The muffled screaming from my left made me turn to see Morgana and her handmaiden, Gwen, staring at us with wide, terrified eyes. They were scrambling backwards on the ground, still sat down and tied back to back, and I tried to step forward to untie them, but they weren't having it.
"It's okay, we're not going to hurt you," Y/B/N said calmly, bending down to pull the pieces of cloth from their mouths. "Just let us–"
"Stay away from us!" Morgana yelled, teary eyed and protective of her handmaiden. "Don't touch us!"
I wondered why she was so scared, and then realised she'd just watched Y/B/N and I murder a bunch of bandits and couldn't see who it was.
"Y/B/N, our masks!" I said to him sharply, and his eyebrows raised with realisation before we both pulled them down to our necks. I looked back to Morgana and Gwen, saying, "It's okay, it's just us! It's Y/N!"
Their fear faded instantly, replaced by shock, and thankfully they let me lean down to cut their ropes from their hands. Y/B/N and I helped them to stand, before I looked over them both with concern.
"Are you hurt?" I asked worriedly. "They didn't touch you, did they? We heard a scream."
"They were teasing us, but no, they didn't touch us, thankfully," Gwen answered, wiping at her eyes. "Thank you. Both of you."
"Are you?" Morgana asked, eyes looking me up and down.
"Am I what?"
"Hurt, you idiot," Y/B/N mumbled, and then I widened my eyes.
"Oh, right! No, no I'm fine, don't worry," I assured her, a little embarrassed and flustered from her tense stare, before looking to Gwen. "I don't believe we've officially met. I'm Y/N."
"The one who beat Prince Arthur in the tournament, right?" she asked, recognition flashing across her expression.
I began to grin. "Why yes, that is–"
"Y/N, not the time or place," Y/B/N cut me off with a knowing look.
I sighed, unfortunately knowing he was right, and changed the subject. "Right. We need to get you both out of here. There could be more of them and we don't know who's going to meet them here. It's not safe."
They nodded in agreement, but before I could even think to lead them out of there, Y/B/N suddenly let out a groan and hit the ground. My eyes widened when I saw an arrow sticking out of his shoulder, and both Morgana and Gwen let out a scream, eyes staring ahead. I didn't waste a second as I grabbed my throwing knife and turned around, throwing it in the direction of the arrow. One of the bandits, heavily injured but not quite dead, had retrieved his bow and arrow. Now he was bleeding out from his neck thanks to my great aim.
"Y/B/N," I rushed out, leaning down to see if he was okay, but his injury didn't look great and my heart was beating way too quickly. "Y/B/N, talk to me!"
"I'm okay," he mumbled, voice strained with pain. In an attempt to push himself up, he hit the ground again and let out a sigh.
"Don't move– just– just wait," I told him, needing him to stay still so I could think.
The arrow was only stuck halfway, not too deep, but if I removed it he would bleed out. We had some time, maybe enough to get him back to Camelot with the others. But not long.
"Can you walk?" I asked him, before attempting to help him stand.
Morgana and Gwen helped on his other side, standing him up before he leaned against me for a moment. His face was scrunched with discomfort, but he looked well enough for now.
"If we're gonna go, we need to go now," he said with a nod. "I'm good. Let's go."
I worried, glancing over him, hesitant to get moving like this. He couldn't hold a weapon in this state, and I couldn't protect him and the others.
"Here, lean on me for support," Gwen encouraged, already moving to his uninjured side. Shooting me a look, she said, "I'll help him walk. Let's get out of this horrid place, please."
I nodded in agreement, pulling my mask back over my face. Unsheathing my sword, I motioned for them to stay behind me before leading the way, on high alert as we carefully walked through the forest.
When I was certain we had cleared enough distance between the bandit camp and us, I stopped fretting and began to ease up a little.
"You okay back there, Y/B/N?" I called, glancing over my shoulder.
"Just peachy," he quipped with half a smile.
I returned it, though his clammy, paling skin was worrying me. Trying to distract myself, I faced forward again, though felt Morgan's presence at my side.
"I'm glad to see you again after so long," I said to her with a quiet voice, so the others couldn't hear. "I do wish it were under better circumstances however."
She glanced at me, a small smile on her lips. "Me too. Gwen and I... we're lucky you and your brother were here. We were out riding when the knights watching us were ambushed. Then we were taken and that's when you found us. That was a day ago."
I frowned. "That's horrible. But don't worry, it'll all be okay now. We're gonna make it back to Camelot and you'll be safe again in no time."
"Thank you," she murmured.
"I'm only sorry I don't have a horse and carriage to help ease the journey," I joked, wanting to lighten the mood.
Her smile grew, a genuine, beautiful one that warmed my heart, and gosh, had I missed seeing it all this time.
