maple-breeze

[maple-breeze]

Word Count: 2k, Oneshot, Complete

Rating: G

Details: Merlin/Arthur Pendragon (Merlin), Merlin & Arthur Pendragon, Christmas Shopping, Christmas Fluff, Fluff, Winter, Alternate Universe - Modern Setting, Winter Wonderland, no magic, only the magic of christmas, cheesy, from WinterKnights 2019

Summary: Merlin and Arthur spend the evening at a Christmas market. Merlin adores the celebrations while Arthur is less enthused. However, it doesn't stay that way.

Bells jingled in the air, tied with the crisp winter wind of soon to be snow which tickled Merlin’s ears as it flowed by. Still, it was wonderful. Walking through the Christmas market was like a whole other world. He heard the buzz of shoppers and holiday songs mixed together down the street and everything seemed to glow. Garlands of lights stretched down and across buildings, culminating in large snowflakes that hung overhead.

There were children, running around and climbing on large candy cane decorations. The sound of laughter was overwhelming. It filled the air, joining with the music. Merlin smiled as they passed a long line of children eagerly standing in line, waiting to meet Santa. It was a sweet sight, all these people in one place and so happy.

The intense joy was contagious and immediately affected Merlin. Being here, with Arthur, everything just felt right. It was only them. There were no piles of work and endless tasks or even problems with Arthur’s dad. They were free to just enjoy the day, the only obligations being gift-buying, which shouldn't be too difficult Merlin considered. This place had more than enough stores to find everything they needed.

The smell of sweets and peppermint pulled Merlin out of his thoughts. They stopped at a cafe at the corner and bought some warm drinks and then headed out once more into the cold. It was a strange mix of feelings, Merlin thought as he clutched his hot coco in one hand. The wind whipped at his nose and reddened his cheeks, yet his body felt nice and warm with his several layers of coats and the introduction of the drink. And his other hand was also warm as it was entangled in Arthur's as they walked down the street.

They passed trees lining the street, covered in lights, that even Arthur couldn’t help but gaze at. As well as people staggering under the weight of shopping bags and gifts, and couples tucked away in shop corners (a group they were definitely not a part of).  Arthur took another sip of his peppermint tea. A group of carolers belting familiar songs passed by, as the smell of cinnamon wafted through the air from the nearby bakery with a line out the door.

They walked down another street as the light began to fade. However, the market didn't seem to get much darker at all, what with the incredible amount of lights. They came upon a large fountain in the middle of a square. Music rose from conspicuous speakers as the water was lit with festive colors and designs.

Arthur watched as Merlin gazed up at the spectacle. He glanced at him and smiled. Arthur didn’t hate the holidays, he guessed he just didn’t quite understand what all the fuss was about. He simply didn’t feel the same excitement that Merlin or others felt seeing a few lit bulbs.

But something else was there to light up the season anyway, Merlin. Here, outside in the celebration his face was as bright as any of those ridiculous decorations.

It made Arthur happy to see his boyfriend like this, full of unbridled joy, and free from his usual troubles.

He let go of Merlin's hand and wrapped his arm around the other man's shoulder, pulling him closer. He leaned into his warmth as he laid his head on his shoulder.

Merlin smiled, resting his cheek on Arthur’s head.

"I love this" he began, "being here with you, it's so magical." Arthur pressed a kiss to his cheek in response. Merlin returned it by bringing his lips to meet Arthur's and wrapping a hand around his back, drawing him closer.

As the sky darkened, they began their shopping.

Then first headed to a large bookstore with hanging candles in the windows. Here, they found a few interesting books for Morgana and lovely journals for Gwen, as well as other more practical gifts for Leon and Gaius. They next stopped at a clothing store, decked out in ugly Christmas sweaters, two of which they bought for Elyan and Percival. Luckily, Arthur managed to find some respectable ties for his father and Merlin, a new coat for Hunith and a lovely purple dress for his friend, Freya.

Their next stop was a candy store that stood at the corner of the next street. Upon arriving, it was packed. People and brightly colored candy filled every available space. Merlin bought packs of prank jellybeans for his friends, Will and Gwaine, who were sure to get a kick out of them. They also bought some candy for Morgana for her hidden sweet tooth.

After that, they crossed the street to a Christmas store. They found some nice ornaments for their tree as well as several other decorations Merlin claimed they needed, such as a white, plush dragon with a Santa hat. Much to Arthur's annoyance, it later became the tree topper.

Next they found themselves in the clothing section, where they both ended up putting a few too many sweaters in the cart. When they finally got to the hats, Merlin tried on an elf one.

Arthur laughed "It really suits you Merlin" he teased, gesturing to his boyfriend's ears. Merlin pouted and turned away, feigning hurt, but moments later Arthur found a Santa hat being shoved onto his head and a fake beard hanging from the hat, under his chin.

"Well this is a perfect fit for you" Merlin smirked, looking Arthur up and down, "All you need is the red suit, you already have the belly."

"How dare you? I am not fat." Arthur said indignantly, pulling Merlin's tall hat down over his face. In retaliation, Merlin pulled the string of Arthur's 'beard' and let go, letting it swing up and hit the other man's chin. They soon became a mess of hats and grabby hands.

Eventually, they made it to the register with several hats and sweaters, a few ornaments, and a stuffed dragon. A headband with reindeer antlers also made it into the bag, presumably for Gaius.

Next, they split up to get gifts for each other as to not ruin the surprise. Of course, they avoided the very sight of each other to not reveal even store hints.

Merlin entered some fancy store he was sure to find something Arthur liked, but after a couple of minutes of desperate searching (aimless wandering) he found nothing and resolved to leave. But upon reaching the door, he saw Arthur pass a nearby store. He hid behind a clothes rack until he was sure he was gone.

Arthur started at the bookstore, but realizing that Merlin actually had most of these or was less interested in the ones he didn’t, he headed somewhere else. He passed Merlin ducking into another shop and tried to hide his face with the various shopping bags adorning his body. Although Arthur found this whole hiding thing ridiculous, it certainly would be entertaining to see Merlin’s shocked face when he opened his gift.

After that secret shopping trip, they met up at a restaurant at the end of the street. Merlin breathed a sigh of relief after they entered the warm room, escaping the increasingly colder weather. They got a table, specifically by the fireplace, and shoved all the bags on the floor by their feet as they sat down. The food was a bit slow but that didn't matter, they kept themselves entertained enough. Plus, they were glad enough to spend that time indoors and warm.

However, the dinner didn’t stay a peaceful as they had intended.

Arthur hated surprises. He didn't see the problem in just knowing what you're getting, helps if you need to return it. Anyway, he didn't want Merlin knowing he tried 'to ruin Christmas tradition.' Arthur simply believed in other traditions, like this one. Him and Morgana had always played games to guess and figure out their presents early, but Merlin didn't understand that, so he chose to employ other methods. Merlin kept the new bag tucked behind the others and it was even a plain reusable bag, with no evidence of the store it was from at all. Ugh that clever idiot, he thought.

When they finally got their soup and sandwiches, Arthur concocted a plan. When they were done eating, Merlin was sure to use the bathroom, Arthur would stay to watch the table, and boom! the perfect time for gift peeking. Sure enough, as they finished their dessert of brownies, Merlin excused himself and Arthur took his chance. He scooted the other bags away with his foot and went under the table. But just as he started to open the new bag, a foot appeared by his head. He followed it with his eyes and saw it was attached to an angry looking Merlin.

Arthur ducked out from under the table, hitting his head on it in the process.

"Arthur, I knew you'd be doing this you prat, why can't you just wait?"

"Well, what's the problem with knowing now?"

"It spoils the surprise" Merlin retorted, then picked up his bags and said, "Come on, let's go Arty."

"Arty?"

"It's a child's nickname and you're acting like a child."

"Ugh, Merlin" he huffed, as they left the restaurant. He pouted and Merlin playfully shoved his shoulder.

They took the trolley down to the other end of the market where the courtyard lay. There was a giant Christmas tree in the center of the square that stretched almost as high as the buildings, with red and green baubles, strung with white lights. Wreaths connected with lights hung on every storefront. Sleigh bells echoed through the air accompanied with flakes of snow.

Merlin and Arthur walked through the courtyard, satisfied with their shopping and full of good food. They snow continued to fall softly upon them. A group of carolers rounded the corner and began walking through the courtyard. They sang "We Wish You A Merry Christmas" before starting "Winter Wonderland". They paused in front of the giant tree; faces illuminated by its light.

"Sleigh bells ring, are you listening,

In the lane, snow is glistening

A beautiful sight,

We're happy tonight,

Walking in a winter wonderland."

Arthur and Merlin stop to watch, and the latter can't help but sing.

"Gone away is the bluebird,

Here to stay is a new bird"

"Come on Arthur!" he urged. The man in question begrudgingly joined in.

"He sings a love song,"

Merlin gripped Arthur's hand tighter.

"As we go along,

Walking in a winter wonderland."

The carolers strolled away, still singing, heading to their next audience, yet Merlin and Arthur continued singing, carelessly slower.

"In the meadow we can build a snowman,

Then pretend that he is Parson Brown

He'll say: Are you married?

We'll say: No man,"

Arthur paused, realizing the words they were actually singing.

Merlin continued and took Arthur's hands in his own, looking into his bright blue eyes, as bright as any of the decorations tonight.

"But you can do the job

When you're in town" he sang earnestly.

Arthur's face split into a wide smile and Merlin's joined his as they dropped their bags on the ground and flung their arms around one another. Practiced lips found each other easily, and both men felt cold no longer.

"You mean it?" Arthur panted; his breath visible in the dark air.

"Of course," Merlin replied, swinging his arm around Arthur’s side as they walked down the street, through the snow.

Later on, we'll conspire,

As we dream by the fire

To face unafraid,

The plans that we've made,

Walking in a winter wonderland.

Neither man could stop smiling all night.

[maple-breeze]

One Hand, One Heart

Word Count: 2.2k, Oneshot, Completed

Rating: G

Details: Merlin/Arthur Pendragon, Established Relationship, Arthur knows about Merlin's magic, Fluff, only a little angst, Marriage Proposal, Secret Relationship, Secret Wedding, Canon Era, Marry Merthur Month 2019

Summary: The crown prince would never be allowed to wed his servant, especially not one who was also a warlock in a kingdom where magic was banned. They would have to find their own way to be together

Read below or on Ao3

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“Come on Merlin, hurry up!” Arthur called, “the animals won’t be as slow as you.” They were headed on another hunting trip in the woods near Camelot.

“Nor as fat as you” the man in question replied with a grin while loading up their packs.

“I am not fat.” Arthur said indignantly, heading out the courtyard. Merlin followed suit and they walked out the gates. Although, it wasn’t just a normal hunting trip like they had said, it was their now typical facade for something much better.

Years ago, on that trip to Ealdor, Merlin had told the truth. It had taken Arthur some time to come to terms with his servant’s abilities, but he did, and they were happier for it. Their bond had strengthened, and each felt freer than before.

Awhile later they stumbled upon a new revelation, that this bond they had was even deeper and that they were more than friends, more than brothers.

It had been hard, they each fought with their own heart, and dodged every sign thrown by fate. However, after a moment of great need, it struck them. How much Arthur cared for Merlin, how much Merlin needed Arthur, and the truth of how they felt for one another. Shortly after, they began courting.

The warm sun brushed against Arthur’s neck and the breeze ruffled his hair. They were walking on a large field to the forest, leaving the castle. He looked back into the distance, straining to see the spires again, but the proud stone towers were lost in the horizon. At this realization he smiled and turned to the man next to him. Merlin was staring off into the trees, the sun lighting his face. Arthur reached out and intertwined their hands with a firm squeeze. Merlin turned toward him and smiled at him, a large, bright smile. He brought their clasped hands to his face and pressed a soft kiss to Arthur’s hand.

It was nice like this, not having to hide anything. Back at Camelot, they had to hide everything.

They stole out at night to each other's chambers and snuck kisses in empty corridors. They kept up the act of stubborn prince and cheeky servant in public, as they had done that morning. Such a relationship between master and servant, especially one with magic would never be approved of. There was a sort of thrill to it, the hiding, the lying, the close calls, and midnight visits but they were always on edge, fearing discovery. There, they did not have the simple peace they enjoyed now, all alone in the forest, together.

After walking a bit more, they found a nice, shady clearing in the forest. They set down the weapons they brought to keep up their act. But they had little use for them now and settled under a large oak tree. The grass they sat on was lush and green. The sunlight filtered through the leaves and branches made the place seem unreal, like a dream. But it was not, it was real and they were together. They ate a pleasant meal while talking about all sorts of things. Merlin told stories of his antics in Ealdor, Arthur of his adventures with the knights, as well as discussing the current business in Camelot. They settled into their newfound freedom and their typical banter purveyed and laughter could be heard from afar.

When they finished their meal, Merlin cleaned up with a flick of his hand and a few whispered words. It looked so natural to see him using magic, and he seemed more at home with it than anything else. He sat down, and leaned against a large tree trunk, next to Arthur who moved his head to rest on his shoulder. Merlin placed a kiss on his golden hair and Arthur returned the favor on his cheek. They relaxed into the earth, feeling the kind of lazy freedom permitting doing nothing. They almost dozed off in the warm afternoon haze that rested like a blanket over their skin.

Awhile later they got up, in an attempt to make more use of their day together. They wandered around the forest but didn’t stray too far from the clearing. They soon stumbled across a patch of vibrant wildflowers nestled in an inlet by the side of a hill. They were draped in light through a gap in the canopy of branches above.

Merlin bent down and grabbed a few red and white flowers with a smirk. He hid them behind his back for a moment before offering them to Arthur with a mocking curtsy.

“Your flowers my Lady” he said addressing Arthur. “I always knew you were jealous when I brought flowers to Gwen and Morgana.” Arthur snatched the flowers out of his hand and muttered something teasingly about proper respect for the prince. Merlin simply took the flowers out of his hand and placed one behind the prince’s ear with a kiss.

The moment Merlin turned away, Arthur reached down and picked a small blue flower. When his back was turned again, Arthur captured him in a hug from behind, bringing his arms tight across his body.

“You prat” Merlin said instinctively.

“You know you love me.” Arthur said still holding tight and placing the flower in his prisoner’s neckerchief and leaving a kiss on his jaw. They carried on like that, racing through the woods, catching each other again and again.

Arthur wandered around looking for Merlin, but he couldn’t find him. Then he saw it. A lovely golden object floated in the air, no flew. It came toward him and he realized it was a small dragon, a Pendragon made of dust, wings flapping gently. He watched it in awe, it was beautiful.

Moments later, a blue bird joined the dragon in the air. It spun and flew circles around its partner. It looked like some sort of falcon. A Merlin, of course! Arthur threw his head back in laughter.

“Merlin!” he called, “of course this is you.” The smiling face of the boy in question seemed to appear from behind a nearby tree. Though Arthur swore he wasn’t there a moment ago.

He sauntered over to Arthur who was suddenly stern, “Merlin,” his smile dropped, and he sighed as if it pained him, “Don’t make that a habit” he scolded, “You know what my father would do.” The harsh words hung in the air, piercing the blissful atmosphere they had created. The reality of their situation settled upon them once more. These brief moments of freedom were rare, and it was likely that it would be many years before Arthur took the throne.

“I don’t want to have to rescue your arse from the pyre.” Arthur said halfheartedly, in an attempt to lighten the mood. There was a long pause.

Arthur spoke quietly, “At least, in the future that won’t be a problem. When I am king, I’ll repeal my father’s ban against magic.” He took Merlin’s hand in his own. “You won’t have to hide or live in fear any longer.” He wrapped his arms around the warlock in a tight hug. Arthur’s face pressed against his cheek. He’d heard the words he wanted for so long. Tears of joy sprung in his eyes. The ban would be lifted, and he would be free. This could change everything. It meant everything. The promise of the freedom to be himself.

The promise of a destiny fulfilled.

Arthur pulled his face away from his shoulder. Their faces were inches apart and Merlin could see the deep blue of Arthur’s eyes so clearly. He was about to lean in when Arthur pulled away.

He took a step back, “Merlin, I was thinking…”

“Are you alright sire? I know how hard that is for you.” Merlin’s face stretched into a smile at their ongoing joke, but Arthur’s did not.

“I was thinking” he paused and took a deep breath, “When I am king, you could rule with me.” He looked more nervous than Merlin had ever seen him.

“What I’m trying to say is…” He fumbled with something in his trousers' pocket. “Merlin” he kneeled down and looked up at him, like he would never do normally, due to rank. He held out a silver ring, “Will you marry me?”

Merlin’s face lit up. The lovely demonstrations of his magic earlier were nothing compared to the joy on his face. Then it all fell away.

“But what will it mean for the kingdom?” he asked, “What about an heir?”

“It doesn’t matter” Arthur replied immediately, anticipating his questions, “I can always name an heir.” Merlin still looked hesitant.

“None of that matters, only you.”

The light returned to Merlin’s face, “Yes!” he cried. “Of course, I’ll marry you Arthur.” Those words felt so good on his lips. Arthur stood up and they were together once more in a joyous hug. Moments later their lips met in a soft kiss. Arthur pressed something into his hand, the ring.

“We won’t be able to be properly married for years, so I’m going to give this to you now.” he stated sadly. The ring was exquisite. It had several small jewels that shone brightly in the midday sun, contrasting with the silver band that connected them.

“It’s beautiful...” Merlin said.

“It was my mother’s” Arthur replied with a loving look.

Merlin pushed the ring back into Arthur’s hand, “but why don’t we get married now?” He tugged on Arthur’s hand and led him through a thick cluster of trees and shrubbery. When they emerged, they stood on the edge of a shimmering lake. It was surrounded on all sides by the grand forest and seemed hidden here in a world of its own.

Merlin lead him to the shore, and they stood together, hand in hand. His eyes glowed gold as he spoke a spell. His red neckerchief untied itself and wrapped around their clasped hands, binding them together. It was Arthur who spoke first.

“Merlin, you have always been more than a servant to me.” Arthur looked him in the eye “You have been loyal to me all this time, despite the cruelty towards those with magic. But you have been more than a loyal servant to me, much more. You are my friend and supported me when there was no one else who would care to hear the troubles of a prince. You have helped me all this time and saved my life, more times than I will ever know.” He held his hands tighter, “And for that I thank you.” He paused and smiled, “But most of all, you have given me love and a belief in a brighter future, for us and everyone else.” He waited a moment then said, “Your turn.”

“Arthur Pendragon, ever since I met you, you have been a bigger prat than I ever could’ve imagined.” Arthur gave him a look, “but you have also been incredibly noble and kind and accepted me, despite everything. I love you with all of myself and look forward to our future together.”

Merlin said some more words Arthur didn’t understand and the cloth on their hands grew warmer as he spoke. It fell off and Arthur reached for the ring again. Merlin eyes glowed once more and a similar gold one appeared.

“I already had this for you too, I was just grabbing it.” He said simply as if that was all it was.

Merlin took Arthur’s hand and placed the gold ring on his finger. It glistened in the afternoon sun, matching with the prince’s hair.

“I take thee, Arthur Pendragon to be my husband” Merlin said, unable to stop smiling. Arthur followed suit.

“I take thee, Merlin to be my husband,” he paused to slide the ring on Merlin’s finger, “and rule by my side.” His smile grew just as big as Merlin’s. “Together we will bring Camelot into her golden age.”

They spoke together, “With one hand, one heart, we are forever joined. “ “As sides of coin we stay together,” Merlin continued.

“Through trials and triumphs,” Arthur added “In desolation and despair” “In joy and life” “We are forever bound together, becoming, one hand, one heart, one life. And even death cannot part us.”

A moment later, they flung their arms around each other and kissed. Merlin’s arms wrapped around Arthur’s neck drawing him in closer. Arthur’s hands settled on his waist and they were completely enveloped in each other.

At the kiss, time seemed to resume. Though they were alone, they heard the cheers of people the clanging of bells, the truth of their future together. Though that was not now, one day it would be. Together they would wait.

They sat by the lakeshore through afternoon, their boots off and feet in the water. Merlin finished putting a glamor spell on the rings to not arouse suspicion.

They sat there, side by side, so much more than master and servant, more than prince and warlock, as equals, forever bonded by their promises to each other. Hand in hand they would wait till the future they dreamed of became their present. However, none of that mattered.

Their smiles grew bigger and laughter louder and kisses more frequent. They had each other and that was enough.

[maple-breeze]

A Weekend Off (Gremaya)

Word Count: 2.8k, WIP/ongoing, 1/4 chapters

Rating: T

Details: Amaya/Gren, Fluff and Angst, Mutual Pining, Love Confessions, Kidnapping, kinda Slow Burn, Angst with a Happy Ending

Summary: Gren has decided to finally confess his feelings to his best friend and general, Amaya. When they have a weekend off together, he takes the chance. However, everything does not go as planned and they are forced into danger once more.

Read below or on Ao3

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Today is the day, Gren thought, pulling on his tunic in the half-lit tent, as the sun inched gently over the horizon. The day I am going to tell her.

He had sat here on his cot for many sleepless nights debating this plan. He has known Amaya for years, and they have become incredibly close as he worked as her interpreter. They had developed quite a loyal friendship. After his first year by her side, he started noticing his feelings for her were changing. He began to think of her as more than just ‘the General’ and realized he longed for her presence in the rare times they were apart. His admiration for her covertly morphed into something he was unable to ignore. He had to admit it to himself, he loved her.

After all, who wouldn’t, he thought, she is incredible, with her unbreakable confidence and immense strength. Every time she kicked down a door or effortlessly fought with her shield in battle, Gren couldn’t help but stare in awe.

Aside from that, she is compassionate, he reflected while putting on his boots. On their trips to the castle, she was so sweet with her nephews. He smiled to himself, remembering their visit to the castle a few months ago and the jelly tart incident. She had laughed so hard upon finding Ezran and himself stooped over a plate of them in the palace courtyard, stuffing their faces with the delicious pastry. That laugh. It was bold and joyful, seemingly untouched by the trials of their work and many years of losses. Gren stood up and fixed his hair at the tiny mirror on the table, before opening the tent and stepping out into the sun of a new day.

Amaya sat down at one of the long wooden tables in the middle of the barracks with a steaming plate of eggs and sausage just cooked over the fire. She looked up and saw Gren across the camp getting his food. He caught her gaze and waved with a cheerful smile. He walked over and joined her a moment later, sitting right next to her. Corvus and several other soldiers they knew slowly joined them at the table. They were all looking forward to enjoying the weekend off.

Their unit had been working rather hard for the past several weeks, guarding the border carefully. Generally, things had been quiet. Amaya thought the lack of action seemed strange. After all, the dragon king had only been felled a short while ago, one would think there would be more backlash from the elves. This dormancy felt like the calm before the storm, whatever that storm may be.

Anyway, their unit was finally getting a break. Another unit would work in their place for now, since they recently returned from a small attack involving Oceansong elves in the channel between Evenere and Katolis. All of her soldiers, from generals like herself, to new recruits fresh out of training are thankful for the reprieve they’re providing.

The crowded tables buzzed with excitement. Gren overheard snippets of people’s conversations discussing their plans. Smiles reflected across the camp, the soldiers rejoicing in the release from their usual burdens. Even serious Corvus was laughing, engaged in a discussion with a fellow tracker.

A few minutes later, while they were well into their meal, Gren heard a voice and turned toward the sound “General, Commander” said Corvus, addressing them.

“Would you like to come with us? We’re heading to the market in that town just past the forest” gesturing to the southwest side of the camp.

With a glance at his general Gren replied, “That sounds like fun, but we’ve already made plans.”

Noticing the questioning looks of the soldiers he continued, “We are going to have a picnic in the forest to the north.” Reading is lips, Amaya nodded. As they finished eating, the soldiers left one by one.

“Enjoy your day” Corvus said, getting up, “and if you would like to join us for dinner you’re welcome to. We’ll be eating at down at the pub near the edge of town.” Gren looked at Amaya for their answer.

She signed and he responded, “Alright, we will join you then, in the evening.” Corvus walked off with the group of soldiers while they went to their tents for the picnic supplies.

Afterward, they walked to the stables and saddled up their horses, loading the food and supplies in the saddlebags. Then they mounted the horses, easily swinging up from the constant practice. They started on a path out of camp, to the forest just north of the battalion at the breach. They were dressed simply, with their usual long-sleeved tunics, dark trousers, and boots, normally worn under armor, along with grey cloaks to keep out the morning chill. There was no need for armor or weapons on their outing, but Amaya packed a dagger just in case and as mainly an interpreter and diplomat, Gren never carried any weapons anyway.

Riding through the forest, they talked about the recent news and events at the border. They kept their horses at a slow walk as it was hard to sign a long conversation clearly at a trot or anything faster. Gren watched her steady hands with interest. With every word Gren couldn’t help but admire Amaya, as she sat in the saddle, her back straight and head held high with her usual air of confidence and pride. I love her, His heart started beating faster with the reminder that he would tell her today. Could I really do it?...Would it ruin the close friendship we have?His mind kept racing back and forth with questions of a similar nature. Every time he managed to fight it off, another dark doubt would replace it, constantly aggravating his troubled mind and anxious heart. How will she react? Is a relationship between a general and subordinate even right?!Gren took a deep breath. Am I worthy of her?Trying again to calm himself, he thought, I’ll find the right time to tell her... it will all be fine. He glanced at Amaya, worried that his constant cheerful facade had come undone. Hoping she didn’t notice; he plastered a smile on his face. Unfortunately for Gren, she did.

The wind rushed through the trees, tugging at Amaya’s short hair and rustling her cloak. She looked back at Gren riding behind her, his bright hair blowing across his face. He sat slumped in his saddle, unlike his normal proper posture.  His hands sat loosely in his lap as his vacant eyes gazed off into the trees. To most he would seem peacefully lost in thought, but she knew him. Why does he look so unhappy? She wondered and signed, “what’s wrong?”

He immediately straightened up and answered, “Nothing’s wrong, I'm fine. I was just thinking about our strategy against the elves.” He smiled, attempting to reassure her.

“The trees here are so beautiful…” he added, trailing off.

Amaya sighed in affirmation and he flashed her another small smile, but she noticed it did not reach his eyes. With her skill in body language and knowledge of Gren, she could tell something was very wrong, despite his protests, but she did nothing to acknowledge this fact. They were generally very honest with each other, but if he did not feel comfortable talking about it, she would respect his wishes. She knew this was quite a contrast from his usual positive demeanor and was therefore probably something serious. She looked back at him again and just as her eyes reached him, he hurriedly put on another fake smile. It seems he is determined to hide it, she thought. She turned forward and focused on the path ahead, frowning. I can’t stand seeing him like this.

Gren was incredibly loyal and has worked as her interpreter for several years now. He was her closest confidant. He’s always there for me, ready to lend an ear... or a hand, she thought with a small smile.  She had always cared for him immensely, but it wasn’t until recently that she noticed how her mind liked to linger on her commander, her voice. He was ever present in her life and his handsome smile was forever etched upon her eyelids.  She fought the urge to glance at him again, avoiding that pained smile. Instead she focused her eyes on the path turning ahead. She remembered when she first realized her feelings for him. It had been gradual. Sometimes they would simply sit together and talk after a battle and she felt her heart race. Other times she noticed how she longed for his presence in the little time they were apart. Many a battle they had been separated and each time she ached to see him safe again.

After enough of these little signs and more, she had to admit it to herself. She loved Gren. And she hoped they could be more than friends. She had kept her mouth shut, in an attempt to keep it professional, and did not want to make his job awkward. It would be awkward anyway because of our differing ranks, the back of her mind offered. Plus, I am much older than him, she continued, how would he react?She leaned back in her saddle and sighed, pushing those unhelpful musings away. I just need to focus and enjoy my day off, she paused. Those are frivolous dreams anyway, it could never work out.The air felt empty. She took another glance back at Gren, who rode passively, eyes down on the trail. His face was vacant and he looked as if he could almost fall off his horse. Even though he won’t tell her what was troubling him, she knew she must find a way to cheer him up. She stared down the long path and recognized where they were. She knew they only had a few more bends in the path before there was an opening in the trees. They could stop at that clearing and have lunch.

Then she thought of something and signed to Gren,

“Want to race to that clearing?” She knew he enjoyed the freedom of riding without the formations and strict rules they usually had to follow. At her question, his face lit up, and he nodded back at her with a grin, that looked significantly more real than it previously did.

She gave a gentle tug on the horses’ reins and stopped, waiting for Gren to catch up on the thin path. A moment later his horse paused next to hers, awaiting the next command. Gren got into a balance position, flashing a smile and indicating he was ready. Amaya nodded and got into the same position. She raised her hand and he watched her count intently. 3…2... 1… And they were off.

They raced down the thin path, the pounding hooves ringing in Gren’s ears. He ducked, narrowly dodging a branch that hung in his eyes a moment before. Still, he loved this. The steady rhythm of the powerful creature beneath him. The wind blowing roughly on his face, hair blowing back. The weightless ecstasy of riding unburdened by heavy armor and expectations. He was free.

Amaya caught a glimpse of Gren dashing beside her, his body in a tight, trained stance but his youthful face was something else. His mouth was open, laughing, his freckles dancing upon his cheeks. She smiled at the sight of him feeling better. She loved seeing him like this, happy and at peace without the constraints of formality and professionalism he was so used to. Distracted, she fell behind his horse. She slowly picked up the pace and they made eye contact again. Amaya threw her head back in a laugh as they took another turn down the path. They were in sight of the opening of the trees. They dashed to it, passing through the threshold of trees, wearing bright smiles, uncaring of who won.

They were out of breath and dismounted slowly onto the soft grass of the clearing. Then they tied the horses to a nearby tree.

“That was fun, thank you for suggesting it” Gren signed.

“I knew you would have fun” Amaya answered, “plus I wanted to cheer you up.”

Gren’s face fell, knowing that she noticed his nervousness. Still, the sight of her sweet smile made his heart soar. Maybe I am making the right choice in telling her, what if she feels the same way?

They laid out a woolen blanket in the middle of the clearing near a large rock. They unpacked their saddlebags, pulling out their food and placing it on the blanket with them. Sitting together they ate sandwiches for lunch. They talked and talked, letting the late morning sun fade into early afternoon. Their laughter was like a song in the soft breeze. It was perfect, almost perfect.

There, Gren would get caught up in one of her stories. Often a lively tale of her adventures or humorous and sweet ones with her sister and nephews. Every time he watched with interest until he remembered what he planned to tell her. He felt his hand shake several times during their conversations because of this. It was a constant struggle, keeping his nervous heart calm with his level mind.

Awhile later they still sat across from each other on the blanket, their cloaks and hair waving in the warm breeze. Gren wished he could cup Amaya’s cheek and run his finger along the hair that ran in a sharp line along her jaw. He hurriedly looked down at his food again, worried that she had noticed his staring. Later, when they were finished eating, they sat without talking to each other for a few moments. Then Gren remembered he had something for her. He picked up his bag and dug through it. Finally, his hands brushed the cloth-wrapped treats and he pulled them out onto the blanket and unwrapped them. As soon as the cloth parted, Amaya’s face lit up.

“Jelly tarts? How did you manage to get some out here?” she paused and explained, “in all my time stationed here I haven’t found a single baker that sells the same ones like in central Katolis.” She looked inquisitively at him, waiting for an answer.

Gren glanced down at the sweet pastry and signed, “I borrowed a recipe last time we visited the capital and I’ve been practicing baking them whenever I find the time.”

His cheeks flushed, “I wanted to surprise you… and I know you really like them… and that you miss them out here by the border and…” His fingers continued to fumble through the words when Amaya’s strong arms wrapped around him in a gentle hug. Gren relaxed into her embrace, glad his work was worth it. The hug lasted a few moments longer, both wanting to hold on longer but neither brave enough.

“Thank you.” she signed with a smile. She reached over and picked up one of the pastries and took a bite.

She quickly set it down again on a napkin and said, “These are amazing Gren! Probably just as good or even better than the ones at the castle.”

He blushed a little and signed back, “Well… I did spend a lot of time trying to make them, and of course Corvus had to help me in the beginning.”

Amaya took another bite of the tart and said, “Don’t be so humble. These are incredible!” After hearing her say something like that, he knew she wasn’t lying just to make him feel better. She likes them. He felt a rush of joy at the thought. Everything was going well so far.

After they finished eating the tarts, they lay down, on their cloaks on the grass and talked. They looked upward into the light blue sky, watching the wild birds sail across it. The world was calm and everything was perfect. Well, almost perfect. Amaya turned her head and looked over at her dedicated commander and best friend. His bright hair shined in the midday light, fluttering in the breeze. The way the light shone through the canopy of trees, dappled his freckled cheeks.

How she longed to touch them, or reach out and take his hand, anything! They were only inches apart, but it felt like miles. She moved her hand a little closer to his until they were almost touching, but she stopped abruptly. No. He has gone out of his way to make this a nice day and I will not ruin it.Maybe there was something she could do for him too. After all, she knew of a nice hiking trail up a nearby mountain he would enjoy.Yes, that could be my surprise for him. But for now, she would just have to wait admire from afar.

[maple-breeze]

here's a link to my ao3: MapleBreeze