Future Brother In Laws

[Arthur Pendragon]

This was going to be a very awkward conversation for many different reasons. First of all, Arthur did not often talk to others about his relationship with Guinevère. Of course there were times when those who knew -- such as Merlin -- raised questions or commented about it, but Arthur generally refrained from initiating such conversations. It was very personal, and too close to his heart to openly discuss with others. Which brought about the other problem which was that it was forbidden. Recent events however proved that even if they could not tell each other of their feelings, they were still willing to commit to one another. Guinevère's words had meant more than Arthur could ever say for she now continuously spoke of waiting for him . . . of being willing to wait for him.

The other awkward aspect of this was the fact that Arthur did not know Elyan very well. He had not gotten the chance to talk to him a great deal on the way back from his rescue mission and so he really did not know what he thought about his relationship with Guinevère . . . or if he even knew the details of it. He had asked Gwen what her brother thought of them, but her answers were vague which were what brought Arthur to his decision to meet with him. Had Tom still been alive, then Arthur would have gone to him after Guinevère's first banishment and then arrest and sentencing to death. But it was now her brother who remained to be her sole relative. They were going to be brother in laws some day so Arthur wanted to make sure he explained himself.

When he was certain that Gwen was tending to Morgana, he left the castle and casually strolled throughout the streets until he arrive at Gwen's home -- knowing that Elyan would most likely be here or the forge. The Prince would check the forge first, coming early enough so that Elyan would hopefully not be too busy. To more easily blend in the crowd he was dressed in casual clothing with his cloak on top, not wearing any armor . . . only his sword at his side. He felt a strange sense of nervousness, but appeared entirely composed. He could not blame Elyan if he was being angry with him, for Arthur blamed himself for everything that had happened to Guinevère . . . and that had almost happened. He arrived at the forge and as it was still closed, he knocke don the door rather than just walk right in as he patiently waited outside for him to answer


_{Setting: The forge
Time of Day: Early morning
Timeline: After Queen of Hearts
Tag: Elyan}

[cherryblossom131]

Elyan was deep in concentration while he was moulding the sword in front of him. It was all he could do to keep himself from thinking and over thinking about the previous days. He had never been so afraid in his life. Sword fighting and being captured with his life hanging in the balance felt like nothing compared to his sister facing execution. He knew he had been acting more protective over her recently, but he couldn't help it. She was his sister and it was his duty to protect her. The previous days have only been proof to how poorly he had been doing his job. He knew his father would have been dissapointed in him.

He had just left the sword to cool when a knock sounded from the door. He was visibly startled, he wasn't expecting anyone. He made his way to the door to tell whoever it was that he was busy and wasn't in the mood for whatever they had to say. He was shocked to find the Prince of Camelot in front of him. He bowed quickly muttering "My lord." He may have been gone for four years but he hadn't forgotten his manners. He knew he shouldn't be as shocked as he was. He had been expecting a visit from the Prince after the last few days who was nothing if not courteous, it was just a matter of when.

He still had no idea what to think of the prince. He knew he was definitely brave and courageous and of course a masterful warrior. But of his relationship with Guinevère, he didn't know what to think. He couldn't blame him for what happened, but he wasn't stupid enough to deny that their relationship was dangerous. He couldn't exactly tell the prince to stop seeing his sister and asking his stubborn sister to stop seeing the prince was out of the question. And who was he to tell her who and who not to love after not being there for her for four years? It would be to bold of him to try to control her life; as if she'd let him anyway.

[Arthur Pendragon]

Whenever Arthur was nervous, he never showed sign of it. In fact, he made sure his posture was straight and that no signs of unease was detectable. But right now, was one of those moments where he was nervous. It was not the kind of nerves he got when about to enter a tournament or war, not even the kind when having to give a speech or being the center of some sort of feast. It was a deeper kind of anxiousness. For it had to do with someone who was most dear to his heart; someone who had grown to be the most important person to him in all this world. He wanted to be sure that he and Elyan were on good terms. For he was all the family that Guinevère had left. He did not want there to be strain or tension, but of course . . . Arthur knew that this was the ideal situation. He knew all too well that not all relationships could start off easily. So he would have to only try and earn Elyan's respect, for he did not wish to be automatically given it without reason.

Just as he hoped that Elyan would speak his mind and not fear causing offense to Arthur just because he was the Prince. Guinevère certainly had not let his rank stand in the way of speaking her mind and telling him how she felt . . . and that had been the what sparked the beginning of their relationship. "My lord." Arthur gave a nod at Elyan's greeting before returning the words. "Elyan," he replied, his tone holding a similar sense of formality. Just for now. As he had never spoken to Elyan in private . . . not in the length this conversation may hold. "I was hoping that I could speak to you for a few moments, if you are not too busy." He of course didn't want to disturb him after all, and would be sure that his presence wasn't an inconvenience to the blacksmith. He would hope that his arrival here would suggest the importance that Arthur's need to speak to him was . . . at the same time, he did not want this to be a rushed or hurried conversation. He wanted to be clear and hopefully reach some sort of understanding by the end of it.

[cherryblossom131]

"Elyan." He noted the formality of his voice, but he was a prince after all. Elyan didn't expect anything less. "I was hoping that I could speak to you for a few moments, if you are not to busy." Elyan wanted to tell the Prince that he was busy, very busy in fact, but that was a lie. The sword he had left to cool would take hours before he could carry on working on it again. The truth was he had been dreading this conversation. He didn't know how to act. Should he act the strong older brother, or the loyal servant? He decided both, if it was possible, but he had never been good at planning things. He was just going to have to make it up as he went along, just as he always did. It was going to be a long and awkward conversation, and Elyan had never been good with awkward.

"Of course, my lord," Elyan stepped aside, "Come in." Elyan made a note of the nervous look in Arthur's eyes. Surely the Prince of Camelot wasn't nervous about talking to him? It made him feel uneasy, for this man had faced monsters and wars. If he was nervous about meeting Elyan, what could he possibly think of him. For Arthur to turn up at his doorstep too, in his forge asking; actually asking to be allowed in... well that alone actually made him smile slightly, because who but Gwen could turn an arrogrant prince into the polite man he saw before him.

He tried to gather his thoughts. The Prince had obviously come to talk about the events of the past days. Elyan still had no idea how the Prince was going to broach the subject of his relationship with his sister. He certaintly didn't want any details, it was his sister they were going to talk about after all, he just wanted her safe, and could that happen with Arthur?

[Arthur Pendragon]

Arthur gave another short nod as he spoke words of appreciation. "Thank you," he said gratefully, as he stepped inside the shop, closing the door behind him. Walking a bit deeper into the room, Arthur took a moment to look around at the forge that he had gotten up and running. It had been so long since he had seen activity in this shop. Years since Tom had passed. Yet another reason Arthur wondered if Elyan would have ill feelings toward him. Would he resent him for having not done more to save Tom? Would the resentment be because of what Arthur's father did to Elyan and Guinevère's? Elyan certainly wouldn't be the first to blame Arthur for Uther's sins . . . so in a way, he had come to expect it almost. But that was not to say he didn't wish to try and rectify them. Or offer what he could in compensation. When Tom had passed, Arthur had not yet fallen in love with Guinevère. But he had gone to her as a friend, telling her that her home was hers for life. Knowing, that keeping up with taxes could be difficult.

While he knew that Morgana would always take care of her handmaiden and best friend, Arthur had made it a point to pay the taxes himself on Guinevère's home. Something that he nor she ever spoke about . . . but both were aware of. It was the least he could do. Compared to all the other wrong doings he had committed, father or not to blame. "Seems you have got everything up and running again," Arthur said, stating the obvious. He knew that it was a way of stalling. A way of collecting his thoughts so that he would not feel so flustered in talking about someone who he cared about so much. To someone who held influence in her life . . . for he was her brother. He knew that Elyan had the forge running, for upon their return from the castle of Fyrien, Guinevère had told him as such. But now seeing it for himself, he felt the need to comment on it. "Is business good thus far?" He further questioned, both out of concern but also . . . as a further means to prolong the inevitable conversation that was soon to come.

[cherryblossom131]

"Thank you," Elyan watched as Arthur stepped inside and looked around. It made him feel uncomfortable with Arthur scrutinising the forge, almost like he was critisising it or looking for faults. Nevertheless, Elyan was rather proud of the forge. He knew it could never be the same as when his father ran it, but maybe it could gain back some of its former glory. He loved working there, it made him feel closer to his father. This had always been common ground between them. They both appreciated the art of shaping a slab of metal into the beauty of a sword or armour or any other shape required of them. Although he would never tell anyone, not even Gwen, he'd sometimes speak to his father while working. Just telling him about his day sometimes or anything interesting that had happened. He'd tell himself it was to make up for all the lost time they had ever spent arguing.
"Seems you have got everything up and running again." So they were going to start with small talk and stall the inevitable conversation. Of course, how else to start an awkward conversation. "Yes, I've managed to get a good start." He honestly thought that at that moment he'd be able to slice through the awkward room with the still blunt sword he'd just started making.
"Is business good thus far?" This was becoming a little over the top, they couldn't stall this conversation forever. "Yes, I've had a few orders coming in from some of the nobles aswell. They seem to think I might have my fathers careful hands." That didn't mean he didn't wanted to. " Forgive me for asking, my lord; but I'm sure you didn't come all the way here to ask about the forge."

[Arthur Pendragon]

Elyan answered the questions diligently enough, but it was his last comment that Arthur knew he had to answer to. He was right. He had not in fact come all the way here to discuss the running of the forge. If it had been that simple, then there would not be a strange tension in the room. Then he would not have chosen such an early hour to arrive. And, he may not have even come to begin with. He could have just as easily asked Guinevère -- as he had done in the past. For the main thing that he and Elyan had in common, was her. He turned to look at the blacksmith, no longer surveying the now active forge. "No, I didn't," he began to say. How on earth did he start this conversation? He barley knew this man. Guinevère seldom talked of him, so he didn't know what sort of reaction to expect. How to broach a subject that was so delicate for both of them, in very different ways. Arthur had never been good at discussing his feelings and what was in his heart. He merely acted on it.

Now, he would have to force out what was in his heart because he knew he owed Elyan at least that much. Despite his elusive presence in Guinevère's life, he was her only family and Arthur was determined to at least try and gain his favor . . . do the honorable thing. Part of him wondered how her father would have reacted to all this. Would he have been more hesitant? More protective? Completely dismissed the idea? Along these thoughts, Arthur also couldn't help but think that had Tom still been alive, Arthur and Guinevère would not have had those days together . . . to really see who the other was. To fall in love. They would have found another way though, for Arthur truly believed that it was in his fate to have fallen in love with Guinevère. Well aware of the selfishness that arose as well. "As I am sure it comes as no surprise to you, I came to discuss Guinevère." As if it was such a simple subject to introduce, which it clearly, was not.

[cherryblossom131]

"As I am sure it comes as no surprise to you, I came to discuss Guinevère." Here we go, this wasn't going to be easy. "No, my lord, it doesn't," How to continue? He truly didn't know what Arthur wanted from him. Forgivness... maybe his blessing? It should have been his fathers job, had he been alive. Guinevère had told him about what happened; making Elyan hate Uther in a way he hadn't thought possible. Now he was staring into the eyes of the son of the coward who killed his father and tainted his name. How was he supposed to feel? He knew he didn't hate the man. Elyan was not the kind judge people for things they hadn't done.

Gwen had been very vocal about how much Arthur helped her in his absence. It made him feel guilty of course, but Elyan would be a fool not to be grateful. He had seen a good man in Arthur who was so unlike his cold-hearted father. This man had done what he had been too selfish to do. He'd have to talk to Arthur about the taxes he'd been paying for them, but that was for another conversation. He already had one awkward conversation to deal with.

"I assume you want to discuss the past few days, my lord," He decided he'd just dive right in. "I must be honest, if I'd known before how dangerous your relationship would be with my sister, I would have ended it as soon as I'd found out." That was more of a half truth. He would have tried to end it, but Gwen would never have let him. "I see how Gwen loves you, but you must forgive my forwardness," he was really pushing it now. "Do you truly love my sister?"

[Arthur Pendragon]

When Elyan confirmed that it didn't come as a surprise, Arthur obviously expected as much. What he didn't know however was to bring up the actual conversation itself. He was never gifted with words pertaining to emotions, and no matter how many times he had gone over and over what he should say . . . in the moment, no amount of rehearsed words mattered. For he wished them to come from his heart. Not sound like something he had memorized off paper. Though thankfully, Elyan seemed to continue to subject with ease, and Arthur listened attentively to his words. The past few days; yes. The days in which he had tried to be with her in a place that he thought they could be alone. Arthur knew it had been reckless of him. Foolish and reckless and . . . yet he would never regret a single moment he spent in her company. "I must be honest, if I'd known before how dangerous your relationship would be with my sister, I would have ended it as soon as I'd found out." It was these words that slightly startled Arthur, though he showed no sign of it, making himself remain composed. He would have ended it? He supposed it made sense, in that protective brother sort of way.

Arthur would have been the same with Morgana, even if their sibling bond was not of the blood, but the heart. So he could understand as much . . . at the same time, he was not sure he would have accepted Elyan's decision to 'end' their relationship. He would have fought for Guinevère. Just as he did numerous times in the past. "Do you truly love my sister?" Now this question, was an easier one to answer. For Arthur knew the true response, and could give it with every ounce of sincerity from his heart. "I do," he answered in a strong, sure and confident voice. Leaving no room for doubt. It was not often he voiced such an answer. The last person he had told that he loved Guinevère had been his father . . . which was another mistake that had nearly cost her life -- her banishment first. Though with that question, Arthur knew he had to give a more detailed answer. Both in reference to the specific inquiry, as well as his previous statement. "Our relationship has not been easy," Arthur said, which truly was an understatement. And something that he was fairly certain Elyan would be aware of, whether Guinevère told him or not.

Everyone knew that princes and servants would never be together. But Arthur fully intended on changing that custom when he was King. And Guinevère had told him that she would wait for him. Words that filled him with the deepest honor imaginable. But he wanted Elyan to know that Arthur recognized the hardship; he was not denying it, nor acting as if he was just doing this for the thrill of a challenge. He would never be that cruel, especially to someone as kind and compassionate as Guinevère. "I had tried to distance myself," he added, having told her following their first kiss that his father would never understand. He had tried to keep a distance, but it didn't work. "But I know, that I will never love another." That she was his everything. "I do not deny that our relationship is dangerous, and I wish with all my heart that she did not have to be put in such danger. But if I believed that she did not love me in return, I would have let her go a long time ago." But he knew she did. And that was why he fought so hard for them . . . because it was a mutual love.

[cherryblossom131]

"I do," the sureness of his voice crushed any doubts Elyan had about how Arthur felt about his sister. Elyan realised that if he had tried to stop their relationship he wouldn't have only had to fight Gwen, but Arthur too. "Our relationship has not been easy." Although Gwen hadn't delved into many details, she had told him of some of the trials their relationship had faced. Elyan had been more shocked at how long they had been together. That alone had been a sign that Gwen was more than a passing fancy to Arthur.
"I had tried to distance myself," this came as a slight shock to Elyan, but Gwen was always very vague when she spoke of her relationship with Arthur. Elyan had been thankful though, for he knew that he really didn't need to know any gross details. It made sense of course, that Arthur would distance himself. It was common knowledge that a servant couldn't get involved with even a noble! Who else but Gwen could capture the heart of a prince? "But I know, that I will never love another." Elyan made a note of the strength in his voice again, and was grateful for it. "I do not deny that our relationship is dangerous, and I wish with all my heart that she did not have to be put in such danger. But if I believed that she did not love me in return, I would have let her go a long time ago."
When Elyan looked at Arthur in that moment, he did not see a spoilt prince who expected whatever he wanted, he saw instead a man fighting for what he needed. He had to admire Arthur for that. "I see,... well then I must thank you for taking care of Gwen." The look in Arthur's eyes whenever he spoke of Gwen was so familiar to Elyan. He used to see it in his father's eyed when he was with his mother. That's what did it for Elyan. "You are a good man Arthur Pendragon, and although no one could ever be good enough for my sister... you seem to come dangerously close," he playfully grinned at Arthur. It seems this conversation was as bad as he thought it would be.

[Arthur Pendragon]

"I see,... well then I must thank you for taking care of Gwen." Arthur would be lying if he said that he was not surprised by these words. Surprised, yet again. Perhaps it was because he did not know Elyan. He had not been able to anticipate and predict what sort of reaction this conversation would elicit from the young blacksmith. What his words did suggest, was that Elyan believed Arthur. That he believed the prince loved his sister, and did not doubt him because of how such a relationship was unheard of. A servant and a royal . . . in love. Many of Uther's recent actions and words flashed and rung in Arthur's mind. But one in particular had forced him to withhold a look of disgust upon hearing it. When his father had spoken of 'the temptation of servant girls'. Maybe that was what had pushed Arthur to tell his father that he loved Guinevère. That she was not just a 'temptation' for a prince to occupy his time with . . . that he was not just using her for physical purposes. It made him wonder if servants were treated like that.

And it had truly revolted the prince. Though thankfully, Elyan seemed to believe his words when it came to his affection for Guinevère . . . and Arthur would not have to re-explore this, crude suggestion. Elyan's words did not stop coming as a surprise. For he then spoke of how Arthur was a good man, and even offered a small tease. His words caused the young prince to smile, appreciative of the effort Elyan was making to at least try and understand where Arthur was coming from when it came to his sister. "Now that is something we can both agree on," Arthur pointed out, acknowledging the common belief that they shared. "That no one will ever be good enough for Guinevère." Not even him. Before, she had just been a servant. But now . . . he had grown to get to know her and love her, and it was he who felt like the lucky one that out of all the men, she had chosen him. She had chosen someone she had to wait for. Someone who being with, would put her life in danger numerous times.

Not only recently with his father's actions, but even Elyan's situation. Guinevère had thanked him so many times for saving her brother . . . but Arthur was well aware of the fact that if it weren't for him, then Elyan nor Guinevère would have been put in danger to begin with. "I know I could have taken care of her better," he said, not about to glorify what little he had been able to do for it. As it was nothing compared to all the danger he had inadvertently put her in . . . just by loving her. "But I do plan to marry her one day." So that Elyan would know just how serious Arthur was about this. That it was not just a fling or infatuation. That he was going to one day, make her his wife. And queen of Camelot. He was determined to, and it was this determination that kept him going. "And I hope that I can prove myself a man remotely worthy of her." Because it was important for him to get along with Guinevère's only family member . . . her brother.

[cherryblossom131]

"Now that is something we can both agree on," that made Elyan chuckle slightly. "That no one will ever be good enough for Guinevère." It was comforting to know that Arthur thought so highly of his sister. It reassured him that Arthur treated Gwen the way she deserved. Elyan held a deep respect for Arthur since the rescue, and it only grew as this conversation went on. Arthur was constantly suprising him with every comment he made. This was the arrogant bully Elyan had occasionaly seen when he was a boy? No, Elyan truly meant what he said about Arthur being a good man. He had seen that, after Arthur had helped him and his sister escape Cenred.

Despite that, Elyan couldn't quiet the feeling in the pit of his stomach that told him Gwen was in danger. Elyan never wanted her to be in that kind of danger ever again. It was luck that saved her this time, he dreaded to think that they may not be so lucky next time. "I know I could have taken care of her better," Elyan didn't blame Arthur for what happened, he knew he could have taken care of her better too. He vowed he would from now on. He would finally be the brother Gwen desereved. Elyan had no doubt that Arthur would help him along the way.

"But I do plan to marry her one day." There he goes again, surprising him. He didn't make an effort to hide the look on his face or they way his eyebrows went up almost comically. He wanted to marry Gwen! He knew that was the general direction any serious relationship went. But the idea of his baby sister...getting married. He'd never really thought about. How would they manage that? Would they wait for Uther's death? If the last few days had taught them anything, it was that Uther wasn't particularly fond of the thought of his son with a servent.

"And I hope that I can prove myself a man remotely worthy of her." Arthur's worthiness of Gwen wasn't Elyan's problem now. He just wasn't sure if Gwen was safe with Arthur. "I have no doubt that you will prove to be a man worthy of her love," he knew Arthur was a brave and loyal; an ideal prince. "However the last few days have truly proven the danger Gwen is in by being with you. I just need you to answer me truthfully, will Gwen be safe...truly safe with you from now on?"

[Arthur Pendragon]

Elyan's words were all too true. Guinevère had been put in such grave danger, and it was not the first time. He knew in trying to make a good impression with her brother, Arthur had failed considering the most recent two events: first Guinevère getting captured by Cenred, now with her banishment and near execution. It was however Elyan's actual question that caused Arthur to pause and a tight knot form in the pit of his stomach. "I just need you to answer me truthfully, will Gwen be safe...truly safe with you from now on?" It was a completely valid question . . . it was the honest answer that Arthur feared to give. He wanted to say yes. More than anything he wanted to give a confident and sure yes, equal to when Elyan had asked him if he truly loved Guinevère. But Arthur's honesty would not permit him to do that. He did not wish to lie . . . no matter how much the reality of the question pained him. For his greatest fear had come true, twice now . . . that Guinevère would be put in danger because of his feelings for her.

Feelings he had tried to keep secret and private for as long as he could, for that very reason. Yet, as soon as someone had found out -- still unsure as to how they did -- they'd taken full advantage. "I can not promise you that my enemies will not try to harm her." Arthur had to speak in a strong voice, because the words killed him to say. But he could not make such a promise to Elyan, and then have something else happen. He wanted to earn the man's trust, not give him further reason to resent him. "But I can promise you, that I will do everything in my power to protect her." If there was anything Arthur prided himself on, it was being a man of his word. He would never betray a promise or vow he made, and would not start now. Especially not about something that was so important. Pertaining to someone he valued above all others in this world. "That I will do all within my human strength to take care of her. To make sure that she will not be put in harms way." That, he could promise.

That if something did happen to her, Arthur would lay down his life to protect her. As his actions had shown in the past . . . though did not redeem what he had still allowed happen to her. "For now, others believe that my feelings for her are the result of an enchantment. For the time being, I will not have them think differently." He was not ashamed of Guinevère in the least, and wished he could express his love for her for all of Camelot to see. But, he could not. Because that would only put her in danger once more. He also knew that Elyan would understand -- more than anyone perhaps -- the delicacy of this situation. "It is a delicate situation, but know that I will not stop protecting her for one moment." And he knew that with her brother's returned presence . . . she would have more than one man who loved her and would protect her to the best of their ability. Arthur was one, he knew that Merlin would do the same for her. And now Elyan.

[cherryblossom131]

"I can not promise you that my enemies will not try to harm her." As soon as his question left his lips, a part of him already knew the answer, but it still stung all the same. Arthur was the heir to the throne of Camelot, one of the greatest kingdoms in all the lands and Elyan had travelled most of them. So, of course he had enemies, if the stories Gwen told him of the last four years of his absence were anything to go by. "But I can promise you, that I will do everything in my power to protect her." Elyan knew Arthur was not lying when he answered him, and the fact that Arthur did not lie in the first place and say 'Yes, Gwen is perfectly safe' made Elyan respect him as a true man of his word.
"That I will do all within my human strength to take care of her. To make sure that she will not be put in harms way." There were not many in this world who Elyan truly respected on a deep level. There was his father, who showed great strength in the face of a great loss and decided not to become cold and soulless when a piece of his soul had died. There was his sister, who was the best person he knew, she was independent and kind and above all, so very forgiving which he was most grateful for. And now Arthur, a great man in every sense of the word, a man he could be proud to call his King. When he told him of the state of their situation, Elyan completely understood. It was safer for Gwen this way and that was all he wanted. He couldn't help but think how Gwen must feel at having to hide her feelings. Elyan had never known love like that but he could imagine it must hurt.
"It is a delicate situation, but know that I will not stop protecting her for one moment." The last few days had been a wake up call for both of them. Elyan was never going to allow what happened to happen again. "It is good to know that I won't be alone in protecting Gwen," he knew now that Arthur wouldn't either. "I'm sure that with both of us truly at her side now, she'll never have to face what she did again." He had hoped beyond hope that he and Arthur could be on good terms, at least for Gwen's sake. Now it seemed they could even be friends and with talks of marriage maybe even brothers? He held out his arm towards Arthur saying "Well then I guess it's about time I gave you my blessing...I'm sure my father would approve," he wished his father could have been there now. "He wanted above everything for Gwen to be happy. You seem to give her that; I hope you are a man of your word Arthur Pendragon."

[Arthur Pendragon]

"It is good to know that I won't be alone in protecting Gwen." Arthur certainly agreed with that. With Elyan staying here, it would certainly be safer for Guinevère. Arthur had seen the way he used a sword. He had extreme skill, and it was rather clear he was an expert in the field of combat. Having him here with Guinevère, would discourage more intruders . . . just as the ones who had kidnapped her to take her to Cenred. "I truly hope that she will not. She has endured more than enough," he said, in reference to Elyan's words about her not having to face anything like she has in the recent past. He wished he could be with her, to protect her, but until she was his wife . . . he could not be. They had to be even more discreet and careful now. For any discovery would only make his father re-visit his earlier threats. Though it seemed he and Elyan were of the same mindset. That he could protect her when Arthur could not. When he extended his arm, Arthur put his hand on Elyan's arm and gave a bit of a nod. His next words however, filled the young prince with the utmost honor. "Well then I guess it's about time I gave you my blessing...I'm sure my father would approve."

Not only had he just been given Elyan's blessing, but he also spoke of how his father would have approved. That had been a question Arthur often asked himself, and even Guinevère at times . . . whether her father would have approved of them. Just as the question of whether Arthur's mother would have approved of them entered his mind. "Thank you Elyan. That means a great deal to me," he told him sincerely. For Guinevère's sake, it was extremely important for him to be on good terms with her brother and if Elyan was giving Arthur his blessing and another chance to prove himself, despite what had happened these past few days . . . then Arthur would not disappoint him. "A man is nothing without his word. So rest assured, that you have mine." For he would never break his word. He had already made Guinevère promises, of when he was king and that would be the time they could be together. He was not sure when it would be -- nor was he anxiously awaiting for his father's death -- but she was willing to wait. And that alone meant more to Arthur than he would ever be capable of saying. Not wanting to dwell on the subject of Tom -- knowing it must be a difficult subject for Elyan to discuss, especially to the son of the man who had ordered his death -- he decided to voice a concern of his own.

In a way, it was Arthur's own form of being protective over Guinevère. Knowing, that she missed and loved her brother. He wanted her to have that constant in his life. To not be deprived of the figure as she had been these past years. Though she did not talk about it a great deal, Arthur knew she felt her home a bit emptier and colder since her father's death. And he wanted someone to help warm it. It could not be him, but surely it could be Elyan. Releasing his grip on Elyan's forearm, he lowered his hand to his side. "Does this mean you are staying?" He asked, as he had told Arthur that he would be here to protect Guinevère and such. It sounded as if he was, but Guinevère spoke of how he was a free spirit and went wherever his heart took him. Arthur admired him in a way, for he was a man who followed his heart as well . . . but for Guinevère's sake, Arthur wanted to make sure that his stay here was more permanent. "I know that it would make Guinevère happy, to have her brother home and at her side," he added, hoping to convince him if he was not entirely sure. Not only to protect her, but so that she could have her family with her. Her only blood relative left to live with her. Someone she could take care of and could take care of her in return. He knew it would make Guinevère happy, and that was all Arthur wanted for her.

[cherryblossom131]

"Thank you Elyan. That means a great deal to me," he was glad of the sincerity of Arthur's voice. Elyan had truly meant what he said. His father would have seen the love Arthur had for his Gwen maybe even before Elyan did. Elyan had no doubt he would have approved, for Arthur with all of his flaws and all of his strengths made Gwen happy...really happy. Something that she had been lacking these past few years after losing so much. Elyan would always feel guilty for not being there for his sister when she needed him most, but he could not bring himself to regret leaving, no matter how selfish that made him seem. How could he regret what he experienced, it was everything he had hoped for and more, he had felt free in every sense of the word.

He nodded at Arthur's assurance that he would keep his word, although he didn't really need it. Arthur had already proven himself to be an honest man, but it was welcome all the same. Arthur was right of course though; a man was truly nothing without his word. His father was an honest man right up until the day he died, painfully so sometimes. But he had taught Elyan its importance, and that was a lesson Elyan treasured and practiced and admired among others, just like Arthur. "Does this mean you are staying?" Elyan was slightly startled at the question. It took him a moment to answer, not because he wasn't sure just because he didn't know exactly how to answer him. "I know that it would make Guinevère happy, to have her brother home and at her side." Elyan smiled at Arthur's attempt to convince him to stay, for he knew there was no need for it. Elyan was man enough to admit that he had been a very poor brother to Gwen these past few years. He had been blinded by his own selfish desires and had failed to notice that she had needed him. Elyan had learnt his lesson.

"Of course I shall stay, especially after what happened, I'd have to be heartless to leave her now. And I'm sure that in order to protect Gwen, I'd probably need to be here," he said smiling. "And I have also missed her so much, we have many things to catch up on and stories to tell each other," he added. It was true, he had yet to tell Gwen of his many adventures around the many kingdoms he had visited and Gwen still hadn't told him everything that had happened in Camelot in his absence. Oh how he had missed Camelot. She had become his home no matter how much he had wished to leave her he knew he'd eventually come back. For who could ever leave Camelot and not return to her. "Do not fret my lord, I shall be staying for a long while to come. If your kingdom will have me of course."

[Arthur Pendragon]

Arthur found himself immensely relieved to hear Elyan confirm that he was staying. Even smiling at his words of how he would have to be heartless to leave after what had happened to her. As traumatic as Cenred's plot was against Guinevère and Elyan, at least some good came of it: she had been reunited with her brother. They were able to bring him home, to stay. Who knows how long it would have been before they could see each other again, so in that way . . . he was glad that they were together once more, and relieved that it had not ended worse than it could have. It ended rather well actually. Despite the several questions that arose from it. It also helped ease Arthur's own mind, to know that her brother was here to protect her. He always worried about Guinevère, mostly during the nights. In the day, she would spend most of her time at the castle with Morgana, as she had done so since she was given a position in the royal palace. It was at night that he greatly worried for her. That he wondered if she was safe, if she was alright in her house in the city, alone. Unprotected. But now she had Elyan. A man who had proved he had immense skill and could properly protect her should danger arise once more.

"I have to say that I am very relieved to hear that. And it gives me great peace of mind to know that she has someone to look after her." Where he could not. She always took care of everyone, Arthur included. When he came back from a journey, she'd find a way to come to him and make sure he ate, helped him get out of his armor . . . and just take care of him. Duties that were expected as a wife, rather than taking it as a servant helping their master. "Your presence here is indeed needed. For Guinevère's sake." Arthur planned to get to know Elyan as best he could, but it was mostly for Guinevère he wanted him here. And, it seemed to be something that he was willing to stay for. Permanently. "And I have also missed her so much, we have many things to catch up on and stories to tell each other." Arthur smiled at this, hearing him speak of how he had missed her and how they had so much to catch up on. "I am sure you will not be disappointed to hear the adventures she has been on these past few years," he told him, still smiling.

She certainly would have a lot of stories to tell: Ealdor, Hengist, dragon attacks, etc. Perhaps her stories would provide Elyan with more determination to stay, considering all the danger the kingdom has befallen. "If you are willing, I should like to hear some of the lands you have traveled as well. For a man who follows his heart is more admirable, but is not without landing himself in a few thrilling adventures." He knew that Elyan must have experienced a great deal. As a Prince, a great portion of Arthur's life consisted of traveling to different kingdoms, battling various opponents, finding himself in trouble more than a few times . . . it would be something that he and Elyan could have in common. Though obviously under different contexts and circumstances. "Camelot welcomes you with open arms," he added, wanting to alleviate an hesitations he may have about staying here. "As do I," he said, personalizing it a little. For one day, Elyan would be his brother in law. He would become Arthur's family through his marriage to Guinevère, and for that, Arthur wanted to get to know him as much as he could until he was king and he and Guinevère would no longer have to wait.

[cherryblossom131]

Elyan smiled when Arthur said he wanted to hear of his adventures and of how he admired his free heart. "Then you'll be pleased to know that I have been in many...let's say troubling situations in my travels. But it was all part of the experience." He had loved every minute of it even when he had had to sleep in a barn surrounded by pigs for reasons he wasn't quite proud of but made him chuckle slightly. "I'd love to share my stories with you, for I am sure with a life as a prince, you must have many adventures of your own." Gwen had told him of only some of what had happened in Camelot. And Elyan genuinly wanted to hear Arthur's stories, he always loved to listen to a good thrilling adventure story, which he was sure Arthur abundantly had. His mother had always told him stories like that when he was a young lad. Stories of damsels in distress who were always saved by young knights. He also fondly remebered when Gwen used to ask 'Why can't the knights be in distress, so the damsels can have a go at saving them?'

"Camelot welcomes you with open arms," he was glad of that. He felt more like he belonged now. "As do I," that remark warmed Elyan's heart more. Arthur was to be his brother eventually and he knew that they were on that path. He could see himself proudly standing beside him and his sister when the time came. When Arthur and Gwen wouldn't have to hide their relationship anymore. Elyan knew Gwen probably couldn't wait, although she'd probably feel guilty, for it would also mean Uther's death. And that would effect Arthur for a while. But Elyan had no doubt that Gwen would help him move on, when the time came. She was always good at knowing what to say.

"Well it is good to be home my lord, I must say I am glad we had this conversation." He was. It wasn't as bad as he thought it would be. "It has enlightened me. I can truthfully say that after this conversation I have grown a deeper respect for you." It was true. In the span of one morning Arthur had shown Elyan many things; his love for Gwen, his honesty, his good heart. Elyan was happy that they had managed to overcome this. For he had known that this conversation could have gone one way or another. He could have resented Arthur and vise versa, or they could have respected each other and carried to a road of brotherhood. He was glad they had chosen the latter.

[Arthur Pendragon]

Arthur smiled with a bit of amusement when Elyan spoke of all the 'troubling' situations he had encountered in his travels. Even more so, that he wouldn't mind sharing his stories with him, acknowledging that Arthur had his own to share as well. He wished it could be as simple as going to the tavern for a drink with Elyan. But, such was not the nature of a prince. He would not be able to comfortably discuss anything with Elyan, for eyes would be on him and . . . it would look far too suspicious for the prince to be drinking with the brother of the woman he had just been 'enchanted' to love. Perhaps one day, they could venture from the city to a tavern where his face is not immediately recognized. "Well spoken," he began to tell him. "I shall look forward to hearing of such tales. It is important, to experience some of what this world has to offer, for it truly makes a man value what he has." In Elyan's case, a sister. For the value of family was something that was easily taken for granted . . . until put in a compromising situation that makes you fear for your loved ones. Thus, making one truly appreciate it all the more. "Perhaps one or two," Arthur said almost jokingly, in reference to his remark about having many adventures. Jokingly, because Arthur knew he had more than one or two.

He had several, just as Elyan had four years worth of stories to tell. "Maybe one day, we can go for a drink. Out of the city. I should like to get to know the man I will one day call my brother." Through marriage to Guinevère, whenever that day would come. "Well it is good to be home my lord, I must say I am glad we had this conversation." As was Arthur. He had been nervous coming in here, unsure as to how Elyan would react with everything . . . but his worries had been put to rest. Arthur had his assumptions about Elyan being a good man, for he came from a good family -- being related to Guinevère, and raised by Tom -- but now, Arthur could truly say that he had a good heart. Just like his sister. It was no longer an assumption; it was something that Arthur had come to realize during a single conversation with him. "It has enlightened me. I can truthfully say that after this conversation I have grown a deeper respect for you." Arthur raised his head a bit, from pride and honor in Elyan's words. That he did not automatically respect him for being a prince; but that the respect was earned. That was something greatly important to Arthur.

He did not want to automatically be given a person's trust and respect, just because of his status. He wanted to earn it . . . he wanted to prove to the people that he was someone worthy of such things. So the fact that Elyan spoke this, saying that he has now grown a deeper respect for him . . . filled Arthur with such grand honor and privilege. "And I you. For throughout this conversation, it has become apparent that you have a strong heart. As your sister does," he said, speaking aloud his earlier thoughts. It would not be hard to call Elyan his brother, for he had a good feeling that they would get along rather well. And as brothers, Arthur did not want the formality between them. "And it is Arthur," he added. He knew that in public, titles would be necessary out of respect. It had taken Arthur over two years to have Guinevère refer to him as his first name, rather than 'My Lord' or 'Sire'. But she had finally grown used to referring to him without any use of titles. At least in privacy. "There is no need for formalities between us." For as he said, they would one day be brothers, and he wished to be on a first name basis with family.

[cherryblossom131]

Elyan smiled when Arthur called his heart strong. And smiled further when he added it was like his sister's. He knew that was a rather large comparison to make. Gwen's heart was much stronger than his. The fact that she has been through so much, stared into the face of death and still manages to start the day with a smile on her face. Her heart was very strong indeed. And he was no longer surprised that Arthur had noticed it. Elyan's heart was nothing compared to Gwen's, but he was happy with the gesture Arthur made. He held his head up higher, and his back straighter at the comment.

"And it is Arthur." Elyan wasn't sure if he would ever get used to the fact that eventually they would be brother's. A lowly blacksmith brother to the Prince. It was the next best thing after a handmaiden queen. "There is no need for formalities between us." "No, if we are to be brothers, there aren't indeed...Arthur." If you had told Elyan 5 years ago that he'd be on fiirst name basis with the Prince of Camelot, he would've laughed you out of his fathers forge. "I am glad with what we achieved today, I'm sure Gwen would be happy too." He wondered what Gwen would think after he told her about this conversation. Would she even believe him?!

"Thank you for coming. You are a brave man to seek me out. I would've been to much of a coward to come to you." He knew it was true, and Arthur needed to hear it if they were going to build their brotherhood on honesty. He might have eventually gone to him, but probably only after Gwen's incessent nagging and a couple of threats. His little sister could be very scary when she wanted to be and he had already made the mistake of not heeding her threats before. Let's just say it ended up in a very soaking wet, muddy Elyan.