Once Upon A Dream (Merlin Love Story)

Chapter 19, Part 2

Astrid's P. O. V:

A few short hours later, I find a few roses left on my bedside table, on the left side of the room as you enter. I'd smiled, knowing they were from Merlin's magic. I'd then whirled around and was racing out the doors and down the steps, seeing Arthur is already mounted on Torrento, with Merlin following.

He looks up but then swivels his head in my direction as I stop by Torrento's head. "Astrid, what are you doing here? Merlin and I have to go," Arthur tells me, gazing down at me as I raise my crystal blue eyes to his.

"I'm going with you," I say hurriedly, unable to believe that they'd leave without me.

"No. It's too dangerous for you," Arthur says immediately as Merlin looks worried by that.

"More dangerous than it is here?" I retort, using the Prince's earlier words against him. He looks exasperated by that. I then say to Merlin pointedly, "And, Merlin, I love you, too! Where you go, I go!"

"Look, Astrid, I know you really want to come—" Arthur begins, but I cut him off, despite his shock at my declaration, though I didn't care.

"Which I do!"

"—but it's just too dangerous for you. Merlin and I will find this Balinor, while you stay and take charge of defence."

I pause in my next retort, blinking my eyes a few times as I stare at the Prince. "You want me to do what?"

"Take charge of defence in my absence. Merlin gave me an earful about letting you do it last night, but he refuses to let you come with us. He and I both know you'll still try to come, so, while we're away, I'm placing you in charge of defence and protecting Camelot. Do you think you can do that one thing for me, Astrid?" Arthur's voice was gentle, yet firm as he gives me this order. Just like a king would.

I flick my gaze to my warlock, seeing the pleading look to accept this proposal, before I look back at Arthur and heave a defeated sigh. "Alright, fine! You win, Arthur!" I mutter, frowning at him.

"Good. We won't continue that conversation."

Arthur goes to nudge Torrento forward but I grab the reins, making him pause and Arthur to look at me quizzically. "Be careful. Both of you."

Arthur and Merlin smile as the blonde responds, "You know us, Your Highness. We're always careful!"

"Unfortunately, I do know you, Pendragon," I mutter, earning myself a playful glare. I quickly give Torrento a pat before I step back enough to let him pass. Then, Merlin brings his horse up to me, pausing before me.

"Can you believe that my father is a Dragonlord? I'm actually going to get to meet him!" Merlin says excitedly. "But you knew and never once thought to tell me?"

I nod my head as I reply, "Indeed, I did know, Merlin. But both Hunith and Gaius made me promise not to tell you. I really wish I can come and see my friend again. I miss him dearly. You will be sure to remind him of our past friendship, will you?" I add, looking back up at him, "I hope you're still not mad at me and Gaius?"