My light blue-green eyes scanned the familiar walls of the castle as I followed Merlin. I could feel the eyes of all my old friends and subjects follow me. My cheekbones were sharper. My eyes were colder. I was more muscular. My hair was shorter. But otherwise I look the exact same.

He was taking me to see the king. I knew that. I do not know if I can face him. I feel as if though I am a frightened horse being ushered by its master. I followed in silence and smirk slightly as the doors fling open. I continue my stride until Uther is right in front of me. I form a fist with one hand and place it other my chest in a salute.

"My liege." I stiffen up momentarily as the King wraps me in a hug. Slowly I return the motion, even if I didn't mean it.

"But how...Morgana told us you were dead."

My eyes glint evilly before I toss him a fake sad smile. "She must have been lead on by Morgause. I assure you, I am still very much alive."

"I trust you shall be able to join the feast tonight? I want all of Camelot to know my lovely wards have been found." A feast? You have got to be kidding me.

"Of course. It will be like a happy family reunion."

I glance down at the dress I was quite literally forced into. Wow. I nearly forgot how much I hated this. The fake smiles. The fake laughter. The overly fancy robes. The door behind me is dramatically opened, and I turn, prepared to draw a sword that wasn't there. I relax as I realize it was only Merlin.

His blue eyes scan me from head to toe. A faint blush covers his cheeks. "Er...Sorry Ari. I just came to tell you that the banquet will be starting soon."

"It's fine Merlin. But since you are already here, do you think you could help me with my hair? I believe Gwen is helping Morgana."

He nods before walking over. "Is a braid ok? That's all I really know how to do."

I blush slightly as his fingers start to comb through my hair. I nod. "That should be fine. Thank you."

"You're welcome." I could feel his breath hitting the back of my neck and it sent shivers down my spine. It felt good. "Ari...are you mad at me? For what I did to Morgana."

I close my eyes. "That was a long time ago. We all were younger and more naive. You must have thought that it was the only way to wake everyone from there slumber." I think to myself for a moment or two more. "No. I think I understand. I am not mad."

"Ok, done." I swiveled around at his words before blushing once more. Our faces would be mere centimeters apart if I were taller.

He glanced at my lips before looking at my eyes again, and a sheepish smile moved itself onto his face.

I roll my eyes before making the first move. I wrapped both of my arms around my neck and stood on my tip toes so that I could reach.

Instinctively, his arms wrapped around my waist and he pulled me close. I felt as if my body were lit aflame. My magic seemed to be bumbling beneath my very skin. When I opened my eyes and pulled away, I realized that is exactly what had happened. The objects surrounding me and Merlin were floating. I set them down.

"Oh wow."

I roll my eyes at his response. "We can talk about us later, because right now I believe you have a ball to escort me to."

He blinked. "Oh yeah. This way my lady." He tossed me one of his signature smiles before leading me down the hall, practically skipping.

Morgana and I both stood to embrace the King in a half hearted hug. The only thing we seemed to be able to agree on nowadays was our hatred for the King.

I nudged Morgana slightly as an evil smirk graced her features. I lean closer so that only she can hear me. "Careful sister, you might blow your cover."

It wasn't long till the King was carried to his chambers. I follow Merlin and Gaius out of the room.

As I pass Merlin, I mutter "So her betrayal has begun" just loud enough for him to hear.