14 Days of A/G:Fic:Smoke And Mirrors 2/3
Title: Smoke And Mirrors 2/3
Characters/Pairings: Arthur/Guinevere, Morgana
Rating/Warnings: PG
Spoilers: Nope
Disclaimer: I own nothing =[
Summary: Arthur and Gwen in the Victoria era
Word Count: 2,226
Author’s notes: for Camelot_love’s 14 days of love. Prompt was was U-43.Historical AU fic not set in the Medieval times/time period of the show - e.g. Arthur and Gwen meeting in perhaps the Victorian period? (Or Regency or Elizabethan - or whenever, as long as its not Modern or Medieval). (HISTORICAL) and was prompted by thedreamygirl I chose to set mine in the Victorian era. This one ran away with me, I was evidently having way to much fun writing it, so I’ve split it into three parts to make it easier. Hope you all enjoy reading it PART ONE HERE
Comments are ♥
Smoke And Mirrors: Part Two
Morgana had known about Arthur and Gwen for a while now, ever since she walked in on them in a rather curious position wrapped in each others’ arms, lips colliding. She’d been shocked to find them like that at first, but something in the back of her mind had found it all logical. She’d suspected for a time beforehand that Gwen was getting involved with someone, there had been a glint in her eyes, a soft smile on her lips that had screamed “I’m in love.” Morgana had hinted and tried to pry information from her, but Gwen was tight lipped and would not say a word, claming it was Morgana’s imagination. So Morgana, doing the logical and only thing she could had conducted investigations, sneaking about, observing everything, using all the skills she’d picked up reading Sherlock Holmes stories, trying to trip an answer out of Gwen, but the girl was too clever for her and so eventually she’d given up.
Of course when she’d seen who the object of her affection was the secrecy had all made utter sense. Morgana was the first to admit her reaction to the knowledge her best friend was cavorting with her, for all intentions and purposes, brother, had been far from one of joy. She’d practically thrown herself at Arthur clawing at him calling him a cad, a scoundrel, a rake. Wresting him in a totally un-lady like manner, slapping at any piece of flesh she could find. Asking how he could be so dishonourable, taking advantage of an innocent lady and putting in jeopardy her very existence. For everyone knew what happened to servants who were “followers”, they were dismissed immediately, with very little chance of finding another job. Then over time, when money became an issue, they were forced to sell all their belongings, in some cases even their hair, just to be able to eat a measly excuse for a meal, clothe themselves, put a roof over their heads, and then eventually some found themselves in the area of disrepute, selling their bodies. The very thought of her sweet, loving Gwen weathering that storm had enraged Morgana to the point where, had she a weapon, she would have considered killing Arthur.
Eventually she’d calmed down enough for Arthur to explain himself and reassure her that he wasn’t taking advantage of anyone and that he had every intention of marrying her; that was if Gwen ever agreed to run away to Gretna Green with him. Morgana had seen the way the blush spread across Gwen’s cheeks, her eyes softening and head ducking, lips curling upwards in a shy smile. From that moment Morgana’s whole mood had changed; she’d embraced them both, kissing Gwen’s cheeks whispering into her ear “sister” and left them to their “conversation”. She’d then made it her job to protect them in their endeavours, taking on the task with the second footman Merlin, Arthur’s valet; who had almost known about them from the start, covering for Arthur when he sneaked off during a dinner party or other such things. She’d also made it her business to enquire about Gwen’s refusal of Arthur’s marriage proposal, several times it seemed.
“It’s not that I don’t want to, it’s just, well it will cause a scandal and he loves London, it’s his home and mine too, not to mention it will rub off onto Uther shaming him and then there’s the whole problem of money.” Gwen had mumbled, trying desperately to change the subject by pulling out dresses and jewellery for Morgana to choose from.
“O Gwen those are pathetic excuses, who cares what it will do to Uther and besides it won’t do anything, he’s far to feared by most to be spoken ill of in public or to be avoided for long. And if you wanted you could return London.”
“There’s still the case of money….”
“Tish tosh! Arthur has items that would fetch a fine price at the prawn brokers and if that’s not enough you can have some of my jewellery…” Gwen smiled at her mistress’ kindness but said nothing.
“What’s the real reason Gwen?”
Morgana’s eyebrows had furrowed as she studied Gwen’s face, she looked thoughtful and sullen, a weight on her shoulders, a shadow on her face.
“You’re scared,” Morgana said hesitantly, testing the waters. Gwen’s brown eyes looked up as she bit down on her lip. Morgana pressed on.
“Scared of what the consequences will be, afraid that you’ll ruin him. So used to following rules, staying in your place, you think you don’t deserve him, deserve this. That you reach too high and will only cause disaster and pain to the ones you love. You’re afraid of getting what you truly desire, that he’ll regret it afterwards when most of high class society and Uther turn their backs on him. Afraid that love isn’t enough.”
Gwen bit her lip harder and Morgana knew she’d hit the nail on the head. Putting a soothing arm around her friend’s shoulders, squeezing her lovingly she proceeded to correct her.
“O Gwen, O my darling Gwen, you’re so wrong you know…Arthur doesn’t care about what those high society twats think of him, maybe he used to before, but he’s a different man now, you changed him.”
Gwen shook her head and smiled dreamily as if she knew something know one else did.
“No, he was always that man, inside.”
Morgana smiled back.
“Maybe, but you brought it out of him for sure, besides however it came about really doesn’t matter, the fact is it did. And Arthur no longer concerns himself about those twits.”
Gwen pursed her lips together thoughtfully.
“You really think that Arthur hasn’t thought this all through, doesn’t know the consequences of your actions? He does, he just doesn’t care; you’re more important to him and I have to say for once I agree with him…”
“I know it’s a miracle,” Morgana added when Gwen looked a little surprised by her admission making her giggle. Gwen had relented more and more, day after day, till finally she had agreed, after that conversation. Morgana supposed that although she’d heard it so many times from Arthur and Merlin before, what she had needed was Morgana’s acceptance as well. Her mistresses’ for it wouldn’t just be Arthur and Uther tainted by the scandal but Morgana as well, she’d become more alienated by society, it was after all her lady’s maid that had run away with him. Though Morgana herself had failed to see how that would be a bad thing. She wouldn’t have to put up with those twittering peacocks.
So all was fine and dandy the plan set, and then a few days before they were due to leave Mr. Teller had proposed to Morgana, to her complete horror. Mr. Teller was a thin, tall snooty man, with a long hooked nose and beady eyes, a man more suited for life in horror novel, than life with a wife. She was going to shoot him down on the spot but he’d interrupted her, saying obviously she needed time to think about it and he’d call upon her in a week. Uther had been aware of his intentions and approved greatly; more concerned about the size of his purse and station than his personality and Morgana’s feelings for him and had practically informed Morgana that if she did not marry the man, he’d disown her. Morgana seeing Uther was a dead end, had reluctantly gone to Arthur to ask for his help in the matter. She spotted Merlin outside Arthur’s room, so knew at once Gwen was present, most likely going threw the plans of their wedding she had thought and that was when the idea had struck her.
“You want me to what?” Arthur had asked bewildered by the idea.
“I want you to pretend to marry me, so I can refuse Mr. Teller and Uther won’t be able to disagree, you know he always hoped we’d get together! Keep the money in the family and all that.”
“But we’re leaving in a few days Morgana, so it wouldn’t keep them off your backs for long.”
Morgana had bit her lip and looked guilty.
“What?” Arthur had inquired, knowing full well he would not like the next words that came out of her mouth.
“I want to you to stay.”
Arthur laughed, while Gwen looked curiously at Morgana.
“Look, just hear me out ok, please.” Arthur sighed and gestured with his hand for her to hurry up and get on with it.
“Ok so you two are getting married full stop, there’s no changing that and I wouldn’t want to, I can’t wait till I can official call Gwen my sister.” She threw Gwen a beaming smile and Gwen retuned the look.
“But you yourselves said you don’t have as much money as you’d like, even if you sold all you could and Uther refused your proposal Arthur.”
Arthur’s face clouded over slightly in bitterness, he’d asked his father as soon as Gwen had said yes, if he could have a small amount of money, legally in his own name, for his own investment hoping that when he invested it, it would give him and Gwen a safety net, something that could not be legally taken away from them, give them security and a chance of rising up the ranks quicker. Not that it mattered much to them where they stood in society, but Arthur knew from experience the more money you had the easier it was, just a fact. But Uther had dashed this plan when he refused Arthur, claiming he wasn’t convinced he was responsible enough.
“Well if we got engaged he will be sure to give you the money. What could prove to him more, that you are serious and responsible enough, than getting married to the girl he’s wanted you too for years! It’s not like he’s been subtle with those hints through the years.”
Arthur had to admit she had a point, Uther would surely agree then. He already had an investment idea, one he was more than positive would give back high revenue and that money would certainly help him and Gwen.
“One problem Morgana, I’m not marrying you…”
“You don’t have too,” Morgana cut in.
“But the investment would take time to build up to the amount needed,” Arthur reasoned.
“And you’ll have time, I know many of the people we know have a rather short engagement, 6 months but I’ll request, demand that it be two years, that’s more than enough time. And then when the two years are up you can leave like you planned only, you’ll be in a more comfortable position.”
“And you, Morgana what will you do in two years time?” Arthur inquired. Morgana grinned.
“Come with you! By then you’ll have made enough money to take me along too and I won’t ask for much Arthur, I’ll even start to work if I have too, I just can’t marry that man, I can’t!” Her voice held a little desperation now as the thought of marriage to that man came flooding to her mind. Arthur understood of course. He didn’t trust Mr. Teller; he was creepy, the way he looked at Morgana and other women, the glint in his eyes as he studied them, made his insides clench and the urge to punch him course through his veins.
Arthur furrowed his brow and looked at Gwen who herself was deep in thought, processing the information. Gwen looked between Arthur and Morgana, studying them, as if the right path would appear before her eyes.
“Morgana does have a point, and she’s been such a good friend helping us in our hour of need, we should return the favour. We can’t let her marry that man, he’s dangerous and we all know it. I’m happy to go along with this plan, we’ve been waiting so long what are a few more years?” Morgana leapt out of her chair and hugged her, squeezing her tight. She knew Gwen was not thrilled about the idea. A certain sadness could be seen in her eyes; disappointment at the extended wait, not liking the thought of Arthur being engaged to another woman, even if it was fake, after having gotten used to the idea that he was indeed wholly hers. But the kindness of her nature and her understanding had out numbered her own desires. Morgan kissed her cheeks over and over. Thanking her again and again, promising it would not change a thing; that she’d help them sneak about during the two years, and the time would fly by.
After smothering Gwen with thanks and affection Morgan turned to face Arthur, she still needed his consent and for a second Morgana was deathly afraid he was going to refuse. Arthur sighed and smiled.
“Ok.” Morgana launched herself at him so vigorously she almost knocked Arthur out of the chair.
“Thank you, thank you, thank you,” she mumbled over and over again into his chest.
“Just so you know, I wouldn’t have allowed father to marry you off to that creep,” Arthur had whispered patting her head affectionately. Gwen smiled at them, they did not show it every often but they were closer and held more love for each other than they liked to admit.
PART THREE
Characters/Pairings: Arthur/Guinevere, Morgana
Rating/Warnings: PG
Spoilers: Nope
Disclaimer: I own nothing =[
Summary: Arthur and Gwen in the Victoria era
Word Count: 2,226
Author’s notes: for Camelot_love’s 14 days of love. Prompt was was U-43.Historical AU fic not set in the Medieval times/time period of the show - e.g. Arthur and Gwen meeting in perhaps the Victorian period? (Or Regency or Elizabethan - or whenever, as long as its not Modern or Medieval). (HISTORICAL) and was prompted by thedreamygirl I chose to set mine in the Victorian era. This one ran away with me, I was evidently having way to much fun writing it, so I’ve split it into three parts to make it easier. Hope you all enjoy reading it PART ONE HERE
Comments are ♥
Smoke And Mirrors: Part Two
Morgana had known about Arthur and Gwen for a while now, ever since she walked in on them in a rather curious position wrapped in each others’ arms, lips colliding. She’d been shocked to find them like that at first, but something in the back of her mind had found it all logical. She’d suspected for a time beforehand that Gwen was getting involved with someone, there had been a glint in her eyes, a soft smile on her lips that had screamed “I’m in love.” Morgana had hinted and tried to pry information from her, but Gwen was tight lipped and would not say a word, claming it was Morgana’s imagination. So Morgana, doing the logical and only thing she could had conducted investigations, sneaking about, observing everything, using all the skills she’d picked up reading Sherlock Holmes stories, trying to trip an answer out of Gwen, but the girl was too clever for her and so eventually she’d given up.
Of course when she’d seen who the object of her affection was the secrecy had all made utter sense. Morgana was the first to admit her reaction to the knowledge her best friend was cavorting with her, for all intentions and purposes, brother, had been far from one of joy. She’d practically thrown herself at Arthur clawing at him calling him a cad, a scoundrel, a rake. Wresting him in a totally un-lady like manner, slapping at any piece of flesh she could find. Asking how he could be so dishonourable, taking advantage of an innocent lady and putting in jeopardy her very existence. For everyone knew what happened to servants who were “followers”, they were dismissed immediately, with very little chance of finding another job. Then over time, when money became an issue, they were forced to sell all their belongings, in some cases even their hair, just to be able to eat a measly excuse for a meal, clothe themselves, put a roof over their heads, and then eventually some found themselves in the area of disrepute, selling their bodies. The very thought of her sweet, loving Gwen weathering that storm had enraged Morgana to the point where, had she a weapon, she would have considered killing Arthur.
Eventually she’d calmed down enough for Arthur to explain himself and reassure her that he wasn’t taking advantage of anyone and that he had every intention of marrying her; that was if Gwen ever agreed to run away to Gretna Green with him. Morgana had seen the way the blush spread across Gwen’s cheeks, her eyes softening and head ducking, lips curling upwards in a shy smile. From that moment Morgana’s whole mood had changed; she’d embraced them both, kissing Gwen’s cheeks whispering into her ear “sister” and left them to their “conversation”. She’d then made it her job to protect them in their endeavours, taking on the task with the second footman Merlin, Arthur’s valet; who had almost known about them from the start, covering for Arthur when he sneaked off during a dinner party or other such things. She’d also made it her business to enquire about Gwen’s refusal of Arthur’s marriage proposal, several times it seemed.
“It’s not that I don’t want to, it’s just, well it will cause a scandal and he loves London, it’s his home and mine too, not to mention it will rub off onto Uther shaming him and then there’s the whole problem of money.” Gwen had mumbled, trying desperately to change the subject by pulling out dresses and jewellery for Morgana to choose from.
“O Gwen those are pathetic excuses, who cares what it will do to Uther and besides it won’t do anything, he’s far to feared by most to be spoken ill of in public or to be avoided for long. And if you wanted you could return London.”
“There’s still the case of money….”
“Tish tosh! Arthur has items that would fetch a fine price at the prawn brokers and if that’s not enough you can have some of my jewellery…” Gwen smiled at her mistress’ kindness but said nothing.
“What’s the real reason Gwen?”
Morgana’s eyebrows had furrowed as she studied Gwen’s face, she looked thoughtful and sullen, a weight on her shoulders, a shadow on her face.
“You’re scared,” Morgana said hesitantly, testing the waters. Gwen’s brown eyes looked up as she bit down on her lip. Morgana pressed on.
“Scared of what the consequences will be, afraid that you’ll ruin him. So used to following rules, staying in your place, you think you don’t deserve him, deserve this. That you reach too high and will only cause disaster and pain to the ones you love. You’re afraid of getting what you truly desire, that he’ll regret it afterwards when most of high class society and Uther turn their backs on him. Afraid that love isn’t enough.”
Gwen bit her lip harder and Morgana knew she’d hit the nail on the head. Putting a soothing arm around her friend’s shoulders, squeezing her lovingly she proceeded to correct her.
“O Gwen, O my darling Gwen, you’re so wrong you know…Arthur doesn’t care about what those high society twats think of him, maybe he used to before, but he’s a different man now, you changed him.”
Gwen shook her head and smiled dreamily as if she knew something know one else did.
“No, he was always that man, inside.”
Morgana smiled back.
“Maybe, but you brought it out of him for sure, besides however it came about really doesn’t matter, the fact is it did. And Arthur no longer concerns himself about those twits.”
Gwen pursed her lips together thoughtfully.
“You really think that Arthur hasn’t thought this all through, doesn’t know the consequences of your actions? He does, he just doesn’t care; you’re more important to him and I have to say for once I agree with him…”
“I know it’s a miracle,” Morgana added when Gwen looked a little surprised by her admission making her giggle. Gwen had relented more and more, day after day, till finally she had agreed, after that conversation. Morgana supposed that although she’d heard it so many times from Arthur and Merlin before, what she had needed was Morgana’s acceptance as well. Her mistresses’ for it wouldn’t just be Arthur and Uther tainted by the scandal but Morgana as well, she’d become more alienated by society, it was after all her lady’s maid that had run away with him. Though Morgana herself had failed to see how that would be a bad thing. She wouldn’t have to put up with those twittering peacocks.
So all was fine and dandy the plan set, and then a few days before they were due to leave Mr. Teller had proposed to Morgana, to her complete horror. Mr. Teller was a thin, tall snooty man, with a long hooked nose and beady eyes, a man more suited for life in horror novel, than life with a wife. She was going to shoot him down on the spot but he’d interrupted her, saying obviously she needed time to think about it and he’d call upon her in a week. Uther had been aware of his intentions and approved greatly; more concerned about the size of his purse and station than his personality and Morgana’s feelings for him and had practically informed Morgana that if she did not marry the man, he’d disown her. Morgana seeing Uther was a dead end, had reluctantly gone to Arthur to ask for his help in the matter. She spotted Merlin outside Arthur’s room, so knew at once Gwen was present, most likely going threw the plans of their wedding she had thought and that was when the idea had struck her.
“You want me to what?” Arthur had asked bewildered by the idea.
“I want you to pretend to marry me, so I can refuse Mr. Teller and Uther won’t be able to disagree, you know he always hoped we’d get together! Keep the money in the family and all that.”
“But we’re leaving in a few days Morgana, so it wouldn’t keep them off your backs for long.”
Morgana had bit her lip and looked guilty.
“What?” Arthur had inquired, knowing full well he would not like the next words that came out of her mouth.
“I want to you to stay.”
Arthur laughed, while Gwen looked curiously at Morgana.
“Look, just hear me out ok, please.” Arthur sighed and gestured with his hand for her to hurry up and get on with it.
“Ok so you two are getting married full stop, there’s no changing that and I wouldn’t want to, I can’t wait till I can official call Gwen my sister.” She threw Gwen a beaming smile and Gwen retuned the look.
“But you yourselves said you don’t have as much money as you’d like, even if you sold all you could and Uther refused your proposal Arthur.”
Arthur’s face clouded over slightly in bitterness, he’d asked his father as soon as Gwen had said yes, if he could have a small amount of money, legally in his own name, for his own investment hoping that when he invested it, it would give him and Gwen a safety net, something that could not be legally taken away from them, give them security and a chance of rising up the ranks quicker. Not that it mattered much to them where they stood in society, but Arthur knew from experience the more money you had the easier it was, just a fact. But Uther had dashed this plan when he refused Arthur, claiming he wasn’t convinced he was responsible enough.
“Well if we got engaged he will be sure to give you the money. What could prove to him more, that you are serious and responsible enough, than getting married to the girl he’s wanted you too for years! It’s not like he’s been subtle with those hints through the years.”
Arthur had to admit she had a point, Uther would surely agree then. He already had an investment idea, one he was more than positive would give back high revenue and that money would certainly help him and Gwen.
“One problem Morgana, I’m not marrying you…”
“You don’t have too,” Morgana cut in.
“But the investment would take time to build up to the amount needed,” Arthur reasoned.
“And you’ll have time, I know many of the people we know have a rather short engagement, 6 months but I’ll request, demand that it be two years, that’s more than enough time. And then when the two years are up you can leave like you planned only, you’ll be in a more comfortable position.”
“And you, Morgana what will you do in two years time?” Arthur inquired. Morgana grinned.
“Come with you! By then you’ll have made enough money to take me along too and I won’t ask for much Arthur, I’ll even start to work if I have too, I just can’t marry that man, I can’t!” Her voice held a little desperation now as the thought of marriage to that man came flooding to her mind. Arthur understood of course. He didn’t trust Mr. Teller; he was creepy, the way he looked at Morgana and other women, the glint in his eyes as he studied them, made his insides clench and the urge to punch him course through his veins.
Arthur furrowed his brow and looked at Gwen who herself was deep in thought, processing the information. Gwen looked between Arthur and Morgana, studying them, as if the right path would appear before her eyes.
“Morgana does have a point, and she’s been such a good friend helping us in our hour of need, we should return the favour. We can’t let her marry that man, he’s dangerous and we all know it. I’m happy to go along with this plan, we’ve been waiting so long what are a few more years?” Morgana leapt out of her chair and hugged her, squeezing her tight. She knew Gwen was not thrilled about the idea. A certain sadness could be seen in her eyes; disappointment at the extended wait, not liking the thought of Arthur being engaged to another woman, even if it was fake, after having gotten used to the idea that he was indeed wholly hers. But the kindness of her nature and her understanding had out numbered her own desires. Morgan kissed her cheeks over and over. Thanking her again and again, promising it would not change a thing; that she’d help them sneak about during the two years, and the time would fly by.
After smothering Gwen with thanks and affection Morgan turned to face Arthur, she still needed his consent and for a second Morgana was deathly afraid he was going to refuse. Arthur sighed and smiled.
“Ok.” Morgana launched herself at him so vigorously she almost knocked Arthur out of the chair.
“Thank you, thank you, thank you,” she mumbled over and over again into his chest.
“Just so you know, I wouldn’t have allowed father to marry you off to that creep,” Arthur had whispered patting her head affectionately. Gwen smiled at them, they did not show it every often but they were closer and held more love for each other than they liked to admit.
PART THREE