beautifulsnake2162020 · 1 year ago
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The Vitulation Cycle: An Arthuriana fanfiction (King Arthur x OC and Arthur x Guinevere x Lancelot) CHAPTER 14: MORDRED
Disclaimer: This is a work of fanfiction I do not make any money from this. Cultist Simulator elements belongs to the Weather Factory, House of the Dragon/Game of thrones elements belongs to George RR Martin and Arthuriana while generally regarded as under the public domain, it comes from the culture of Britain.
Chapter 14 - Mordred
"We're watching you." Sir Lancelot tells you before he goes back to her majesty's side. Only for Sir Gwaine to make a gesture with his two fingers gesturing from his eyes to you. Understandable really since Ayrmida had just recovered from something that triggered her past trauma. You were all gathered to have a picnic in the Castle grounds, or more specifically in the gardens since it was the best place where the sun's warmth was. While you were given a chance to spend some time with Ayrmida alone, you could still feel everyone's eyes on you, especially Sir Ector her grandfather.
It was true that you admired and held some affection for the youngest member of the court. But you know it wasn't love. Perhaps it's because she too was still trying to find herself. For all you could remember all you really wanted was to belong to someplace as yourself. You didn't feel at home with the Christian orphanage that raised you until you were able to find work in your studies in botany. You initially came to Camelot at eleven to learn under their scholars more about the sciences. Merlin was a strict teacher and seems to dislike you for a reason you couldn't understand. You were thankful that unofficially, King Arthur had in nearly everything but name became your father. You would sometimes feel guilty when sometimes you eavesdropped the various arguments they would have about you.
"You are playing a very dangerous game Arthur!"
"Merlin, I don't care what future you have foreseen. He's just a boy and you are already treating him over something he hasn't done."
"Yet. Done yet Arthur. You choosing to ignore my warnings will only break your heart. Your love for him will be wasted."
"Tell me Merlin, have you become so obsessed with what the future may become that you forget to live in the present? You don't know if he will make those choices! I will take guidance from what you have seen but I will not stop loving Mordred as my own child."
It was then that you became interested in the martial ways. You didn't know why Merlin treated you this way, but you were going to prove him wrong that King Arthur was wasting his love on you.
And so like Ayrmida you sought to make yourself one of the best people to ever serve Camelot. You began paying attention to the politics, the martial ways, and the resources Camelot has to offer. You weren't at all finished with your journey, but now you understand some of the decisions he, Queen Guinevere, and some of the other knights and courtiers were doing. You didn't know enough to make your own opinions on what should be done yet, but you feel you were on your way there.
"Mordred? What is King Arthur like?" Ayrmida asks bringing your attention back to your own present. Seated beside her on a picnic blanket eating on cheese, bread, mutton and boiled eggs.
"Where do I begin?"
"From whatever you have thought of first." You chuckle at her response at your rhetorical question.
"This may seem strange but King Arthur is much like a father to me."
"Oh?"
"My parents were travelers who died on their way to a pilgrimage. And so the Christian convent had raised me when I was the only one who survived the plague. I don't recall what they did before they took me on that pilgrimage trip. It was when I went to Camelot for further studies than the convent could offer that I found a father figure in him. Back then I too was the young blood in court - not the youngest since there were plenty of boys my age who wanted to enter into Camelot's martial training. But probably the only one who was here for scholarly studies rather than just martial training. Arthur had found me in my studies and had began volunteering to personally help with things that just escaped my understanding. The funny thing was that I didn't know he was the King. I just assumed he was another courtier or a scholar of Camelot. It was only when I attended my first Court session and he made his appearance that I discovered that he was the King himself. And afterward we just became closer."
"I see." She says before taking a bite of her buttered bread.
"I'm just nervous of something embarrassing happening if or when he chooses to talk to me in open court."
"He wouldn't intentionally do that. I imagine that any embarrassment is most likely to come from you."
"Mordred!" She exclaims in disbelief but you could tell that she found the humor in your joke.
"It's true. On your first court session with Queen Guinevere I was wondering if your nervousness would make you faint on front of everyone."
"Well it was my first time in any court! You have years of experience."
"I'm only three years older than you."
"You've been here far longer than I have."
"And what is so different from all the court sessions you've attended with Queen Guinevere presiding? This time you'll be meeting with Camelot's King." Then you see her face change. You couldn't tell if it was better or worse but there was definitely a change in her.
"There will be many things different."
"I highly doubt that."
"I hope for that too." She says before she takes a quick glance at all the knights who were watching the two of you. As soon as they see her looking at them they quickly turn away and pretend to have been doing something else. You couldn't help but roll your eyes at them. They weren't trying to be discreet and their gazes at you and Ayrmida were obvious in your peripheral vision. You knew that many of them thought that you were infatuated with her and feared that you might take this chance to seduce her. This wasn't the case though you did hold affection for her.
And to think these were the same people whose ranks you will be joining once you became a knight.
"May I ask a promise from you Mordred?" She asks as she brings herself closer to you. Her expression serious.
"What kind of promise?"
"Will you promise that no matter what happens could we still be friends?" You couldn't help but smile.
"Of course I will. But why make me promise over something so obvious?"
"Because I fear you wouldn't want to be my friend anymore after something happens. You have been a good friend to me Mordred, and I wouldn't want to lose our friendship." This touched you, it's been awhile since anyone your age wanted to be with you. The other boys who had started their martial training before you did were envious of your relationship with the King and didn't want to have anything to do with you. And girls around your age just keep looking at you in a strange light. Probably this infatuation that everyone keeps saying you have for Ayrmida.
You make sure to meet her eyes as you make her a promise she requested.
"I, Mordred, promise to still be your friend no matter what happens." She smiles back with some relief.
"And I, Ayrmida promise the same. Thank you for this Mordred."
"Of course, I'll still be your friend even when I become a Knight of the round table." She chuckles at this.
"I have no doubt you will."
She leaves you with a smile, and you couldn't help but feel she is keeping something from you. Some mysterious secret that she is keeping to herself. It was fine, even you have your own secrets.
You weren't going to deny to yourself that you wanted to be Arthur's heir. It wasn't because of the power it would give you but to also show that anyone who was devoted and hard working enough would also be good enough to be one of Camelot's leaders. It was why you strived to familiarize yourself with the different factions in court and what it would mean for the interest of Camelot. And your work seems to be paying off since you have the favor of many significant factions in court. Including Queen Guinevere and King Arthur before he had left to embark on his second attempt in fulfilling the Grail quest.
You couldn't wait for him to return. He might tease you for finally making a friend who is closer in your age than just being a perpetual student or squire to everyone his age.
And it turns out to your delight he came sooner than you had expected.
He arrived late at night with his brother Sir Kay and plenty of the other knights who had gone to take care of the problem of the witch hunters. You see them detain a few prisoners whom you recognize were some of the witch hunters that had attacked Camelot recently. You then quickly run to try to find Ayrmida so she may have her first glimpse of who Camelot's king was.
"Queen Guinevere, Sir Lancelot, Sir Gwaine, Sir Percival, have any of you seen Ayrmida? King Arthur has arrived with Sir Kay and the knights who went to take care of the witch hunters. I wanted to show her who he is before he holds court tomorrow."
"Oh that's wonderful Mordred!" Queen Guinevere says as she begins giving orders to some of her ladies to make sure the King's chambers were tidy and ready for his return.
"Does anyone know where Ayrmida is?"
"She's with Sir Ector having a dinner in town. You'll probably meet them tomorrow." Sir Lancelot tells you as he stands to give out his own orders and make his own preparations for King Arthur's return.
"Hmph that's if Arthur is ready to have court tomorrow. A banquet sure, but I think he will have at least one day of rest before returning to his duties."
"Want a bet Sir Percival?" Gwaine says with a grin. Since you won't be meeting either of the persons you were looking for, you take your dinner and retreat to your room to put yourself to sleep.
The next day, much to Sir Percival's dismay, King Arthur did hold court although it was much later than normal, though given that he, Sir Kay and the other knights who had ventured out had only arrived late last night.    
When he entered to take his seat at the round table there was much applause and excitement. He had his beard trimmed to his preferred length of being close to his chin and his beard hairs on the shorter end. Enough to show his beard but short enough to show the lower half of his face.
The court then settles down as Queen Guinevere takes her place beside him and everyone is seated.
"It's good to finally be back."
Another round of applause was given.
"I have missed you all and will now hear and discuss matters that are most urgent. I'll do this before I reveal whether my quest for the Grail has been a success or not."
As court went on your mind wondered where Ayrmida was. Your eyes finally see her behind her uncle at his chair at the round table and some distance behind her was a couple of hooded figures who seemed to blend in with the background. Who are they?
"Mordred." You hear him call your name and you step forward and present yourself on front of him.
"Based on reports of your progress it won't be long before you become a knight and part of the brotherhood of the round table. Your last few major tests would be in my presence before I formally knight you." He tells you with a smile and you couldn't help but share in his enthusiasm.
"Really your majesty?"
"Truly, why do you think the other knights tend to tease you a little bit more recently." You hear them laugh with some like Sir Gaheris and Sir Bedivere giving you encouraging looks.
This is it.
You will soon be knighted.
All you need to do is to past a few more tests and you would finally be a part of the highest brotherhood in Camelot.
"Tha-Thank you your majesty." You bow before him before going back to your place on the sides, although it wasn't lost on you that you did see encouraging smiles and gestures from the other knights of the round table.
A few more petitions and issues were discussed, but you couldn't hear any of them as your mind was still savoring the news that you were almost a knight.
Finally the petitions were finished and Queen Guinevere played her card.
"We may be done with the petitions but there is a new face in court that I want you to meet."
"Oh?" He asks in excitement. You almost forgot how he loves entertaining new members of his court.
"She's a new lady of mine. Lady Ayrmida?" Ayrmida makes her way on front of King Arthur. You see her more calm than she was her first time.
But even King Arthur could sense just a little bit of nervousness coming from her.
"Ayrmida? How are you?" He asks in a very gentle and soft tone. A tone you would often hear whenever he wanted to calm someone down.
"A little nervous since everyone is looking at me."
"Oh don't worry, everyone is also looking at me." That did the trick and this causes her to laugh and her nervousness disappeared.
"There we go, feeling better?" Arthur gives a little chuckle with a gentle smile and a glint of affection in his eyes.
"Yes, thank you for that."
"Well since you're feeling better. I would like to know what you've thought of Camelot and my court so far? Are my knights fooling around behind my back?" You couldn't help but laugh along with some of the other knights in the table.
"Well it depends on your definition of fooling around. They tease and joke a lot, but when I was worried and traumatized upon hearing what the witch hunters were doing, they were there for me when I needed them the most." A resounding sound of awe surrounded the room.
"Even Mordred has been a great friend to me. And I think he would make a great knight of your round table." You couldn't help but blush a little bit at being specifically mentioned by her to your King and father figure.
"And how have you been adjusting being one of Queen Guinevere's ladies?"
"They were mostly good to me. Queen Guinevere herself had personally taken me under her wing."
"And how has she been with you?" He asks his wife speculatively.
"She's been a fine young lady. I'm extremely happy to have her as one of my ladies. She's almost like a daughter to me." He smiles at that, there was something mischievous about it that you couldn't explain why.
"Is this true Sir Lancelot? Or is there a hidden conspiracy between them?" He asks jokingly and both the Queen and Ayrmida laughs.
"It is true, my liege, and may I also add that she's been a hidden gem and a devoted student to the martial ways as her teacher. Even though she sometimes could be too impatient to move to the next level." Sir Lancelot says with affection and the King just chuckles at this. Almost as if to say that he knows what he's talking about.
"Now have you been good to your uncle Sir Kay and to your grandfather Sir Ector?" She gives him a sheepish look.
"I may have snuck out a few times from them but I make sure to take great care and I never go too far from the castle."
"Oh don't get me started." Sir Ector murmurs.
"In my defense, these trips were very insightful in showing me Camelot's strengths and weaknesses. And in the back of my mind I always knew my uncle have assigned some of the knights who weren't on duty to make sure nothing horrible happened to me."
"And what are Camelot's strengths and weaknesses?"
"To summarize because I sense some of your courtiers would want to be dismissed already - Camelot is strong in accepting all cultures and backgrounds of all who come and live here. But it's weakness is that not many of these cultures have a say in court beyond the local level. I will admit I am still learning. But your court is biased towards some of the dominant cultures here. And it would be good to have a few courtiers from lesser known subcultures that are subjects of Camelot contribute their perspective in your court."
This was rather bold of her. You too have noticed this issue but it is at a periphery to some of the other issues that you were thinking about. Where did she get this bravery from when a few moments ago she might have allowed her nervousness to take her over?
"This of course is not the only issue, but that is the issue that appeared first in my head when you asked."
"Of course, and I appreciate your honesty about your insights. There is always room for improvement and I and my court are also included in that."
"Likewise."
"Members of the round table, how has she been with all of you?"
"You're asking an awful lot of questions for a new face in court my King." Sir Dagonet comments as King Arthur gestures for him to continue on.
"She has been good. We were quite surprised when she was insistent on learning the martial ways but after discovering that she was a promising student, she was quite a sight to behold." Sir Bedivere says in an affectionate yet no nonsense way.
"Yeah."
"Agreed."
"What Sir Bedivere has said."
"She's also not scared to answer back. Quite refreshing." Sir Gwaine adds before smiling at Ayrmida's pointed look at him.
"Generally speaking you like her." King Arthur was met with more nods and affirmative responses.
"And what's the feedback from the ladies?" Those who were allied closely with Queen Guinevere gave the same replies that the knights had on Ayrmida while those who didn't like her and was probably planning to seduce Arthur just shrugged or remained silent.
Sir Dagonet was right, why was the King asking so much questions about her and to her?
"Well I think it's about time we wrap this up." You hear the relieved sighs of some members of the court. Some people cried out questions about his Grail quest but he ignored them and turned his attention back at Ayrmida with a hidden mischief in his smile once again.
"Has this been an insightful and satisfying experience for you?" Ayrmida smiles, nods and takes a breath.
"Yes it has. Thank you so much for this...father."
What?!
Father?!
You hear the surprised sounds of court.
"I'm sorry for the surprise to everyone. But it was part of her wish for her twelfth birthday." Arthur stands up as he goes to Ayrmida's side.
"I would like to formally introduce my eldest daughter, Ayrmida Targaryen Pendragon. Daenara, Daeron, you can reveal yourselves now." The hooded figures close to Ayrmida revealed themselves and you hear more gasps in the room.
The woman, Daenara Targaryen, the King's first wife is not just alive, she is here before all in court. She was definitely ethereally beautiful with her silvery blond hair and vibrant violet eyes. The boy, Daeron, Ayrmida's twin brother, looked a lot like King Arthur but with his mother's violet eyes.
"This is my son Daeron, and this is my first wife Daenara Targaryen. The Grail."
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flight-of-fantasy · 2 years ago
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People when they see BBC Merlin and Merthur are still performing well on lists of TV shows and popular ships in 2022
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wolf-tail · 26 days ago
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I know medieval fushojis were locked tf in writing Lancelot and Arthur slashfic
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wednesday-if-it-was-tuesday · 2 months ago
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My (nsfw) ideas for Merlin fics!
Some are my own WIPs so lmk which I should write first but drop recs of any fics with these tropes!
pwr bm Arthur serv top Merlin
“Sword hardening” spell gone wrong— sex polleny
Merlin as the brattiest brat
Repressed Arthur, ho Merlin - thought sharing spell stuck for 24 hours gone (right?) wrong.
gay Arthur w knights, shy Merlin gets roped in
Merlin in armour changes things for Arthur
Knights of Camelot gangbang Merlin (but nicely)
drunk kinda crack (Arthur gets Merlin too drunk intentionally?)
Merlin uses Arthur as a clotpole; Arthur uses Merlin in the stocks
sick Merlin, doting Arthur
Bathing together
Freaky Friday
Merthur but Gwen has to abate the gayness
It’s Arthurs birthday episode, but Merlin ties him up, gags him, and takes him for a spin.
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adhd-merlin · 9 days ago
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Ever After
Fandom: Knights of the Round Table: Lancelot (Gwen Rowley) Relationship: King Arthur/Queen Guinevere Tags: Established Relationship, Sexual Repression, Miscommunication Words: 4800 Summary: A missing scene from Gwen Rowley's novel Lancelot. Since I didn't get the Arthur/Guinevere reconciliation scene I wanted, I wrote one myself.
Note: You can read Lancelot here—the entire book, or even just Chapter 38 (p. 222), of which this fic is a direct continuation. If you want to give this fic a go but can't be bothered with all that, I've summarised the Arthur/Guinevere subplot in the author's end notes on AO3. Many thanks to @queer-ragnelle for uploading and sharing this novel <3 You can find more books about Arthuriana on their blog, including Gawain, which is part of the same series and a fun retelling of the tale of Sir Gawain and the Loathly Lady (and can be read on its own.)
EXCERPT:
Arthur banged his fist on the door, with a force matching the pounding in his chest. “Guinevere!” The loudness of his own voice startled him, and he took a deep breath to calm himself. There were enough rumours going around already—the last thing they needed was for someone to overhear the king begging to be let into his wife's chamber.
“Guinevere,” he repeated, more quietly, but no less firmly. “I order you to open. We must talk.”
The door was yanked open so swiftly that Arthur almost lost his balance. He caught himself upon the doorframe before he could fall against Guinevere, who now stood in front of him, regarding him with an icy fury that would have made a man of lesser courage shrink in fear.
Arthur couldn’t think of any other occasion in which he had ordered Guinevere to do anything, and it was clear that she resented him for doing so now.
“What more is there to talk about, my lord?” she said, coldly. “I’ve confessed everything I’ve ever kept from you. There is no more to be said.”
She made as if to close the door again, but Arthur stopped it before she could slam it in his face. “I rather think there is. And I would hear it from you.”
READ ON AO3:
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a-funeral-pyre · 6 months ago
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May Day Parade - Round 4: Seneschal celebration
Thanks to @queer-ragnelle for giving me an excuse to write about my precious baby Kay. Have I already mentioned that I am unable to write anything but angst, and that I am way too fond of deathfics? Honestly I cannot remember right now any version that specifies Kay dying at Camlann, but I find it appropriate. I ask for pardon if it is too much.
You were always the dreamer among us.
Even when we were children, you did not care how many times I beated you in our little duels. You just smiled, promised me that one day you would be the one to win more often, and then stared at the sky for something I could not understand. Whether you already sensed how different the destiny that awaited you was from what anyone else would have imagined, or whether you just wanted it, I could never have conceived it.
I just knew that even then I hoped that I would stay by your side forever, just to see that glow in your gaze again.
I did not swear allegiance to you just to pay for the moment I wanted to take over a power that was not meant for me, or out of gratitude to see that you wanted to keep me with you.
Someone had to make sure reality was the way you wanted it.
Someone had to fight alongside you, make sure your every battle was a victory. Someone had to keep watch over your court with keen eyes so that no one unworthy would join it, so that the days would pass exactly as they should.
I should have done more. I should have told you the truth about what was happening before it was brought to light by force and blood, instead of trying to convince myself that there was no betrayal lurking in the darkness.
But how could I bear to see your light go out?
Someone had to protect you. It has been my role since long before your true origins were revealed, a duty imposed upon me by something beyond blood or a man's loyalty to his king.
If only I had spoken, for once my tongue would have been useful. I could have stopped all this, and stood by your side, dried your tears and healed your broken heart, in a kingdom still united. And, in time, I would see you smile again.
I fear that even if that moment comes in the future, I will never be able to see it.
I want to believe that despite all the blood surrounding us and the scar this day will leave, you will not give up. I want to believe that you are still hoping to win and be reborn, and that you will return home, even if I am no longer by your side.
I have always tried to see nothing but the reality that was in front of my eyes. But as my blood drowns a land already sated with death, I dare to hope that the darkness will go away, that peace and joy will return, and that your end will come long after mine.
And if my hopes come true, if there is a new future for you and the light returns to your soul, won't you dream again for me?
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gingersnaptaff · 1 day ago
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Might take suggestions for lil tiny ficcies to get back into writing. Yell at me if u want a story. Can be Arthurian or Welsh myth or welsh history or anything. NSFW or SFW. Whatever.
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poparthuriana · 3 months ago
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We did it! Let's go!
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sasha-br · 5 months ago
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...and (again) the sequel to Felt Like, The Only One. This one has a big death in it, and it was super hard to write. I love this version of Arthur and Lancelot a lot, and am proud of the work I did on this one and Felt Like (again, despite the earlier writing needing work). @ka20th
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msue0027 · 2 months ago
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Arthur Pendragon & Arthur Kirkland. Back when it was old Britania who was main personification. Or maybe that was Albion? Or Britania’s name was Albion. Yes, that’d make sense. So young Anglia was still a child. And it makes sense that personifications know their great rulers and important historical figures. So. They’ve met. They were friends. Since young prince’s childhood. Anglia’s seen him grow and mature, and lead his country and rule just. He was learning magic with Merlin. He always had place in court, even when he had to leave for months, as his land needed him elsewhere. And King? Had a friend and advisor, even though he looked no older than his son. He was honoured to serve his people and his kingdom, and actually see his country as a human, a physical form of its soul. And for Anglia? Camlann devastated him. How could Arthur – an honourable knight, the best swordsman on those islands, His King – be dead? It changed him forever. And one evening, when he was visiting his father, he said to Britania: “I want to bear his name. I want to be Arthur.” He could never be as great, or as wise. But he could remember the man he loved, and who loved him. He could await his return, when his King rises again in the time of need. He could wait - centuries, millennia - just to hear: “my dear Anglia, how much have you grown”.
But honestly, are there people who write Hetalia x Arthurian Legends fiction?
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hafrenfae · 4 months ago
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new chapter for y’all!!
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beautifulsnake2162020 · 1 year ago
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The Vitulation Cycle: An Arthuriana fanfiction (King Arthur x OC and Arthur x Guinevere x Lancelot) CHAPTER 13: LANCELOT PART III
Disclaimer: This is a work of fanfiction I do not make any money from this. Cultist Simulator elements belongs to the Weather Factory, House of the Dragon/Game of thrones elements belongs to George RR Martin and Arthuriana while generally regarded as under the public domain, it comes from the culture of Britain.
CW/TW: Discussions on trauma and trying to heal from trauma are present in this chapter.
Chapter 13 - Lancelot Part III
"Steady your center." You were on your horse mainly observing Ayrmida hold the lance for the first time.
"It's a lot heavier than it looks." You chuckled at this.
"Were you expecting it to be light?"
"Yes! I thought these were made from the poles sometimes used by travelling dancers." A sudden cough from your side almost concerned you. And then you notice Mordred's blush spreading across his face and you couldn't help but grin at the suggestive thoughts Mordred must be thinking. It was no mystery to you that he was infatuated with Ayrmida. Probably because she was one of the few ladies in court who was younger than him and would probably be a good match once he waits a few years.
"Do I hold it like this?" You ride to her side as you help fix her grip.
"Um, I think I might need two hands for this."
"Good, then this lesson is finished."
"What?!" You chuckle as she looks at you in disbelief.
"It's true, you're still too young to wield it like a knight in a joust. For now I just want you to know how heavy it actually is."
"Is this really the first lesson?" She asks you annoyed with how seemingly quick the lesson was.
"Yes it is. Mordred when were you able to hold a lance single handedly?"
"Only last year Sir Lancelot."
"And how long have you been training with the lance?"
"When I was twelve sire."
"See, you two were the same age when starting out with a lance. It will take some time before you could handle it properly with one hand."
"I see. I was just hoping to actually do something." You grin at her sullen face as you unsheathe two wooden practice swords.
"Would you like to try with the sword now?" Her eyes brighten as she takes one and you begin your new lesson. In your periphery you notice Guin, Mordred, Gwaine, Dagonet, and Percival watching you instruct the young lady. When she was stubborn enough to be able to persuade her grandfather to teach her how to fight with a sword, several knights including you was interested in how Sir Ector would approach the young girl. You didn't know what you were expecting but Sir Ector teaching Ayrmida like any other male student was quite a sight to behold.
Now as both of you were on a horse and you were teaching her how to maintain her center while also wielding a sword. You focused on her mastering her defensive skills. If there was anything you wanted her to know is how to defend herself. Ideally she won't need to use what she learned to attack, but you could easily think of many situations when she would need to defend yourself.
"Don't let yourself be too stiff. Otherwise you can't move quickly." You say as your practice sword was able to move to what would have been a deadly spot.
"Clench your thighs together to help keep yourself stable on your horse. This is different from riding side saddle."
"I can tell." Her form was still stiff. Perhaps this was too advanced for someone who only began learning how to ride astride.
"Would you like to take a break?"
"No! I want to keep going. Maybe it's just me adjusting to a new skill." You sigh but nevertheless you continue on. Though you give a subtle nod to Guin that you were going to be a little bit more gentler on her. Not only was she still very young and if she wanted to continue she still had time to do so. Besides this was just the first day of any martial training. Some of the other knights were having bets on how long she would last, but if Ayrmida was approaching this like how she would approach any other skill she has wanted to learn, you have no doubt that she would surprise them.
By the time the lesson ended, you insisted on helping her down from her horse Goldie.
"But I want to learn how to do it on my own."
"Ayrmida it's perfectly fine to ask for help. Besides you are too stiff and today is the longest you've been riding astride. Let me help you down." You help her down, much to her reluctance, and you slow your pace to match hers. She was doing her best to not show how much she must have been aching as you lead her to the infirmary.
"You are still twelve and have only just begun, there's no need to put so much pressure on yourself."
"I know but I also want to be prepared for a time that no one else could help me."
"Why would you think of yourself in that situation? You are in Camelot now where we will keep you safe."
"Thank you Sir Lancelot. But it's because of a recent incident that I want to be prepared to survive on my own." You wanted to learn more when you had to let her enter the infirmary where they could give her a massage as well as other necessary treatments to help the new aches in her muscles.
"I'm curious Mordred, has Ayrmida told you anything about her family?"
"Well she loves them dearly. She has a younger twin brother and both parents are still alive. Something happened that made them even more closer that caused them to flee back to the Fisher King's kingdom. That is all she would say about them."
Hmm this made you wonder about the possible identity of Ayrmida's father whom sir Kay's younger brother. You did know that Arthur was his foster brother and that they have relatives in the Fisher King's kingdom. Perhaps neither of them brought this mysterious brother up because there was no need to.
As you and Guin dine with them and a few other knights including Gwaine you could see some of the resemblance between Ector and Ayrmida. His hair may have been starting to become gray on top, but his own red hair was still present. Although it is now dull given his age. But you imagine it would have been closer to Ayrmida's vibrant red in his youth.
"Any news from my uncle?"
"Ayrmida they will probably reach there tomorrow in the earliest. We won't hear news from them for a few days as they will be dealing with the witch hunters. And if they need reinforcement it will still be a few more days before they send one of them back to ask for aid." Ector tells his granddaughter as he slices some bread before giving it to her.
"Your uncle is an excellent leader and with him are Sirs Bedivere and Agravain among others. They'll be fine." You reassure her as you take a bite of the roasted chicken on your plate.
"Also there is a chance that our King Arthur might meet up with them and aid them in disposing of the witch hunters. Compared to the battles and quests these men have already been through, witch hunters are nothing." Gwaine adds attempting to lighten the mood.
But it wasn't helping.
Ayrmida normally a bundle of energy was anything but. She quickly eats her dinner and remains silent before rushing out.
"Why was she upset?"
"You may have accidentally stepped on a nerve with her Gwaine."
"What did I say?"
"Argh I'll check with her tomorrow. Perhaps she will sleep on it and be herself when we break fast."
She stayed in this rut beyond breaking fast. She was a polite shadow of herself. She would normally be enthusiastic in practicing any of the skills she had wanted to learn. But instead after observing court from the sides she quickly retreats to the library. And something tells you that it wasn't to practice her calligraphy or illumination.
Ceridwen, one of Guin's closest friends and trusted handmaidens, a higher rank above a common court lady, went to check on Ayrmida. Even among informal gatherings of courtiers nearly everyone could feel Ayrmida's absence and that she was upset about something that happened that dinner.
"I'm concerned for her, she occupies her normal spot by the window, but she gazes in worry by it. Her hands no longer working on her handwriting nor of the calligraphy exercises that was given to her. She is now more prone to being scared and startled by any sudden appearance. She's not herself your majesty." She reports after the major discussions of court in the round table were finished. She does not bother to hide her fear over what Ayrmida could possibly be feeling.
"Thank you for that Ceridwen, has she been eating?"
She does not respond.
"Can you please make sure Ayrmida gets a meal? Or if she refuses all your attempts tell her she'll be having dinner in my chambers."
"Yes your majesty." Guin leans forward in her spot in the round table.
"Ector, your granddaughter is still in a rut. There's clearly something that was discussed that bothered her."
"I've tried talking to her but she wouldn't tell me. She just looks at me blankly and remains silent. It's almost as if she has committed herself to become a cloistered nun in one of those Christian monasteries."
"Why do I have a feeling that it must be something I've said."
"Gwaine what did you say?" Sir Dagonet asks.
"That she shouldn't be worried because compared to their past battles, the knights headed to take care of the witch hunters will be fine. Add the chance of King Arthur possibly joining them once he takes care of the bandits attempting to rob him, the chances of success is very high."
"Oh - oh no. I think I know why she's upset." Ector says as he rubs the temples of his forehead.
"What is it?"
"Don't tell her I said this to you." Ector begins and only once he has confirmed everyone promises to keep this from her does he continue.
"Before Kay travelled to the Fisher King's kingdom to bring her here, she and her family had an unpleasant encounter with the witch hunters. I don't know the details of it but the poor girl must be traumatized."
"Ector! Why didn't you say anything?! Why didn't you stop me from saying what I said?!"
"I thought once she was within Camelot's walls she wouldn't feel frightened by them since I feel confident in our forces. It's also why I made sure Kay personally escorted her here so that should they have another encounter with the witch hunters she would still be protected."
"And the fact that Kay, her uncle is the leader of the troop against the witch hunters, and also Arthur being her other uncle possibly losing to them or even being injured by them - well no wonder she's scared and anxious." Sir Dagonet says in realization.
"Arthur can handle himself! And so can Kay and every knight who is with him right now."
"But she doesn't know that Sir Lamorak." Guin says. Her voice is calm but her expression is worried.
"She's never seen Kay or any of you in any real battle - much more Arthur whom she has yet to meet. All she knows is how dangerous the witch hunters are. While I share in the confidence that they will succeed, it is because we have seen and even know how deadly they can be. She does not have that insight. All she knows is her traumatic experience."
"Ugh, maybe I should go to her and apologize."
"No Gwaine, I know her, she'll want someone to listen to her first before doing anything. She's always like that whenever she gets frustrated over one of our martial lessons. Maybe I should talk to her first before anything else."
"...Ector by any chance what is Ayrmida's favorite food?" You walk away as you hear the meeting being adjourned. You first search for her in her favorite spots only to find her in the training grounds, still in her court dress, staring at one of the practice dummies. A wooden practice sword in her hand.
Except unlike in previous combat practices, her form showed how frightened she was. Her grip too stiff and made the wooden practice sword an unsteady weapon. It was almost as if she was frozen in place as she stares at the dummy.
"Ayrmida." No response.
"Ayrmida!" She was still frozen. You run to her making sure you made as much noise as you can to let her hear that you were coming.
It was only when you reached her that you see the tears coming from her eyes and her face frozen in fear.
"Ayrmida." You say in a softer tone, and it was then that she begins crying as she finally notices you.
"Oh Sir Lancelot, it's fine - I'm fine - I was just - um."
"Breathe." With a gentle hold on her shoulder you lead her to a bench where you both sit. You light up the torches to give both of you light. Being around other people may just overwhelm her too much.
"Ayrmida, you have us all worried. What's troubling you?"
"I'm sorry...you weren't supposed to see me like this...I'll be back to myself tomorrow I promise."
No, that would only be an illusion of what she truly is. The trauma needs to be healed first.
But you of all people know how difficult it is to open up about trauma. And sometimes it takes time to allow yourself to be vulnerable to people who you trust.
"Would you like to hear a story?" You give her a handkerchief which was used to wipe her tears away.
She nods, to your relief.
"Some years ago, much like now our King was away from Camelot a delegation from the Fisher King's kingdom arrived. And we of course catered to them, the Princess Elaine...she had an interest in me that I did not return." It was still painful to tell this but it no longer was so excruciating that you couldn't help but keep it to yourself.
"What...what happened?"
"She deceived me into thinking that she was the woman I loved. And before I knew it I was restrained against the bed and was being violated by her." Her face showed her horror at what was done to you.
"Before I knew it, she managed to collect my seed against my will and contain it in a vial. When her majesty and Merlin was able to intervene before it got worse, she used magic to disappear. Months later I receive news that she had given birth to my child."
"Was his name Galahad?"
"Yes."
"I heard that his mother loved to pamper him. He's the prince now."
"And as you can imagine, I don't have the greatest experience with Queen Elaine."
"How...how did you stop yourself from being reminded of what happened whenever you see a symbol of their kingdom?"
"First I allowed myself to feel scared."
"But...you're a knight. Everyone keeps saying knights are some of the bravest people there are." You shake your head.
"Being brave doesn't mean you're no longer capable of fear. It's doing something despite you being scared...is this why you want to learn the martial ways so badly?"
She nods at you.
"Would you like to share?" She softly nods. Briefly glancing at the dummy before you gently bring her back to you.
"During our travels, whenever there were witch hunters present seeking to kill mages and anyone else who used magic, they wouldn't hesitate to bring destruction to it and would kill families they thought were secretly doing magic when they were just alchemists or learned people. They...they almost took me and my mother if it hadn't been for my father..." More tears flow from her eyes as you rub her upper back in support.
"I still don't know what I did wrong. My mother and I were just looking for an inn for the four of us to stay and before I knew it we were surrounded by them. She wanted to place me back on our horse so I could ride away while she would give herself up. My father was able to intervene after he had done a favor by saving a rich man from that town. We were guests while we stayed and we waited for them to go away. Then we went to the next village never removing our hoods. Did you know sir Lancelot that we were supposed to go straight to Camelot?"
You shake your head again showing you didn't.
"That was our plan at first. But then in the next village we went to my father learned that the witch hunters were gathering to attack Camelot and were taking the same route we would have taken. It's why we went to stay with Aunty Fiona in Queen Elaine's kingdom. When I heard that the witch hunters were causing trouble in one of Camelot's main routes and that my uncle was going to lead the charge against them...I couldn't help but be worried for them - they don't know how dangerous they are. I just keep remembering how they had their swords pointed toward us and how someone had grabbed my mother trying to capture us."
You let her cry on your shoulder as you embrace her. Afterwards you lead her through a more discreet path to her residence.
You weren't surprised when she chose to stay in bed. You reassure the others that she needed time but she's on her way to recovery. Gwaine took this to send her favorite foods from him as an apology. Mordred visited her - under your supervision. Since Gwaine was currently on guard she had asked you to watch over Ayrmida. Your presence acting as an unofficial chaperone while Mordred finally was able to get Ayrmida to slowly smile again.
The next day she finally entered court again and positioned herself beside Gwaine and embraced him before court officially began and many at court began a sigh of relief that the young darling of the court is back. You and Guin share a smile before she officially makes her entrance and officially holds court.
It turns out it was a good day for Ayrmida to be back.
The night before Sir Agravain had arrived to bring good news.
"The witch hunters have been dealt with my Queen, Sir Kay has sent me to request for additional resources for the journey back. King Arthur has met with us after the battle and is going to join us in returning."
This caused a lot of excitement in court. Especially among the factions who were planning on pushing their daughters on front of Arthur in the hopes of replacing Guin. Little did they know that Arthur was already satisfied by both a man and a woman.
"Request granted, we'll begin preparations for finally welcoming them and my husband back. But do take care to rest and freshen up before bringing them back to Camelot sir Agravain."
"Yes your majesty."
After court you and Guin invite Ayrmida to privately dine with the two of you.
"Do I need to do something special since this will be the first time I'm meeting him in court?"
"If it will come to that then I'll be the one introducing you to him since you are one of my ladies."
"Hmph, knowing Arthur he will want to talk to Ayrmida directly - Don't worry he's really nice." You quickly reassure her as you see her eyes widen at being directly spoken to by the King.
"You mean in front of the entire court?" You could see the nervousness she had in her first two days here creep back in.
"Yes similar to how you were first presented to me. Don't worry, King Arthur is very nice and he always make sure that new members of court are as comfortable with him as possible. And I believe you two will get along very well."
"Your majesty it's more about talking with him in open court that brings my nervousness back."
"Why is that? Many in court love you. Do you know how uncomfortable it was when you were absent?" She shakes her head showing she didn't know.
"Let's just say everyone noticed when you weren't present and many have begun to miss you. Some have began gossiping about what on earth Gwaine said that made you so upset."
"But I'm just a crazy curious young girl."
"True, but thanks to you many in court have been reminded of what it's like to be young again and why Camelot still continues to attract many people to live on her grounds." Guin says as she pours Ayrmida's goblet with water.
But you notice that perhaps Ayrmida's nervousness is taking over her once again.
"Ayrmida."
She looks at you. You could see how nervousness is slowly becoming fear and you need to stop it as early as you can.
"You are safe here. I'll be here, her majesty will be here, and the Knights of the round table will be here. Even if there are some at court who don't like you, we'll make sure that you are safe here."
Thankfully that reached her and began to calm down. She was still young and inexperienced with how to handle fear and anxiety. What calms her down and what brings her out is being surrounded by people with whom she feels safe with. You don't know her entire history yet but you hope to help her conquer or handle her trauma and fears.
Once you understood this, suddenly plenty of things about her makes sense.
She wants to learn as many skills as possible to be able to make herself as useful to anyone as possible. From being a scribe, to being a hidden gem in martial prowess. All this to justify why they shouldn't have her thrown out or to place her in a dangerous position yet again.
What she doesn't see is that people are drawn to her for simply being herself. No person could master every skill in a single human lifetime. And while she doesn't need to put this pressure on herself you can't blame her for doing so. It was the same reason why you became the best knight you can be. Then you opened yourself to the love of both Arthur and Guin and before you knew it you became better because of the love shared; with the three of you, with the brotherhood and friendship you shared with your fellow knights as well as with some members of court.
As you escort her to her residence to a very thankful Sir Ector, she gives you a thankful smile. A smile that reminds you of why you vowed to protect the innocent and to keep the vulnerable safe.
AN: I wanted to give Ayrmida a bonding moment with both of her would be step-parents before the big reveal in Camelot's court.
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taliesin-the-bored · 9 months ago
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This is a crime.
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tiodolma · 2 years ago
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The next person who makes an arthurian reboot should really tackle the big assed issue of Merlin engineering a succession crisis in the first place. And it should be on the perspective of the barons. I want king lot and king ventres to be the main characters.
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samwinjester · 11 days ago
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Meant as a prequel for Mordred, Bastard Son by Douglas Clegg. Could also be read as just Arthuriana.
(I had it sitting around for 10+ years, so why not post it)
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intrepid-fictioneer-7 · 1 year ago
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I keep forgetting to advertise my stuff.
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