Destiny could change, our nature never

by HadrianPeverellBlack

Summary:

Merlyn had believed the Great Dragon when he told her that it was her destiny to protect Arthur Pendragon.

 

She had believed him when he said they were two halves of one whole, that they couldn't be separated.

 

She had believed him when he told her that they shared a great and splendid destiny together, the golden age.

 

But how could she believe him, now that he was telling her that she should let a child die for words spoken in fear?

 

How could she believe him?

 

Merlyn had to choose: betray the fate they predicted for her and Arthur, or betray herself?

Notes:

I thank @/lobsterthermidor for the beta!

 

This divergence canon start from The Beginning of the End

Chapter 1: Chapter 1

No young man, however extraordinary, can know his own destiny.

 

He cannot predict what part he will play in the story that is about to be told.

 

Like everyone, he has to live to learn.

 

And so it is for the young witch who lives in Camelot.

 

A servant who over time will give birth to a legend.

 

Her name ... Merlyn.

 

Merlyn was walking through the halls of the castle, thinking about the errand Gaius had given her, when she heard a scream coming from far away, she could hear it in her mind.

 

Intrigued, surprised and concerned, Merlyn started walking towards the source of the sound, fearing for someone's life and determined not to let anyone die, not when she could help it.

 

As she walked, she heard it again, in her head, the same voice as before her.

 

"Help."

 

She looked around, but saw no one.

Following what her instincts told her, she stepped out into the inner courtyard.

 

"Help me."

 

Merlyn looked around, hearing the same voice say once again. "Please."

 

She checked all the passers-by, seeing merchants pass, couples talking to each other, and servants going about their duties.

 

Finally, she saw a little boy huddled behind a hay wagon.

 

"Please, help me."

 

Merlyn looked at him in amazement, realizing he was speaking in her mind.

 

Suddenly, she heard the march of the soldiers nearing them and heard their commands to search for a child.

 

Merlyn returned her gaze to the child, which said. "They're looking for me."

 

Merlyn answered, knowing how to do it without knowing what she was doing, the same way.

"Why are they looking for you?"

 

"They will kill me.", The fear, the resignation in his voice, made Merlyn's heart ache.

 

She could imagined herself, isolated, in enemy territory, nobody to help her and a death sentence on her head.

She knew, if it wasn't for her mother, Will and Gaius, that was what her future would have been like.

 

She kept the guards under control as she approached the door that allowed entry into the castle, a secondary door, less majestic and more comfortable.

 

The servants' door.

 

When she saw that the guards had all turned and walked away, she spoke to the boy.

 

"This way. Run!"

 

The boy ran, but as he disappeared through the door, one of the guards saw his blue cloak disappear in the doorway.

 

She knew they were chasing by the guards, but she had no choice, Merlyn ran up to Morgana's rooms, entering as she and Gwen laughed.

 

"Have you forgotten how to knock, Merlyn?"

 

Morgana asked her, before noticing the child that the servant was hiding with her jacket.

 

"The guards are looking for him, I didn't know what to do.", she said, in despair.

 

Seconds later, the guards knocked.

 

"My lady."

 

Morgana, to Merlyn's surprise, looked at the boy as if she knew him, as if they shared a story.

 

At the second insistent knock of the guards, she pointed to her screen and said. "Inside there."

 

As Morgana faced the guards, the boy collapsed on top of the servant.

 

As soon as the guards were gone, Morgana and Gwen ran to where Merlyn was, worried.

 

The child had been injured.

 

After Gwen had gone, the din of preparations for an execution could be heard.

 

Merlyn looked at the boy who, after getting some basic care on her arm, was awake.

 

A seven-year-old couldn't have gotten to Camelot alone.

 

Her father was the man who had arrived with him.

 

And that now he would be killed in front of everyone, with first a speech from Uther against magic and its practitioners.

 

A trumpet sounded, and Uther and Arthur appeared on the main balcony, jutting out over the square filled with the inhabitants of Camelot.

 

Merlyn hated seeing Arthur like that.

 

She couldn't help but think of herself as one of the people killed and, up there, Arthur staring stoically at her.

 

"People of Camelot. The man before you is guilty of practicing spells and magic. According to our law, the punishment for this crime is death. We are still looking for his accomplice."

 

Morgana took a choked breath, while Merlyn looked at the child, who was watching her, aware of what would soon happen to his father.

 

"Whoever is protecting the child will be charged with conspiracy, and he will be beheaded as a traitor."

 

Merlyn and Morgana looked at each other, scared but decided to do the right thing.

 

"Let this serve as a lesson to you."

 

For the first time, Merlyn heard a condemned man speak aloud.

 

"You let your fear of magic turn into hatred. I pity you."

 

Morgana whispered to Merlyn. "I can't watch this.", she said, her voice breaking, before stepping away from the window and approaching the child.

 

When Uther gave the order, Merlyn didn't look at the executioner, but she kept her gaze on Arthur.

 

It was only because of this that she saw his grimace, but she was soon distracted by the boy's scream.

 

"No!"

 

The glass near her shattered and Merlyn looked at the boy, shocked when she saw Morgana still holding him close to her, despite the magic he'd definitely wrought.

 

***

 

"How is he?"

 

Getting through the inner courtyard had been difficult, guards everywhere turning everything upside down in search of the child druid.

 

Gaius had also told her to stay out of it and keep her head down.

 

Unfortunately, I know you

 

Merlyn would not have left the child to die, not when she had begged years, her own childhood, for someone to help her.

 

"He's sleeping. He's very pale." Morgana answered, leading her to the baby's resting place. "I'm afraid he's lost a lot of blood."

 

Merlyn felt her heart tighten at the sight of the sleeping boy.

 

"He didn't say anything?"

 

"No." Morgana looked at her before saying. "He didn't even tell me his name."

 

Merlyn looked at her sheepishly before admitting.

"You know, earlier, for a moment, I thought you were going to hand us over to the guards..."

 

Morgana looked offended. "I'm glad you trust me, Merlyn."

 

"No, no, sorry, it's just..." Merlyn bit his lip, before saying. "I mean, you are the king's protegee. You are taking a great responsibility to protect him."

 

"I couldn't bear to see an innocent child executed." Morgana looked at the child, softly. "What harm could it do, anyway?"

 

"Uther believes he practices magic, and that makes him guilty."

 

"Uther is wrong."

 

The words that Merlyn had long wanted to hear come out of Arthur's mouth came out of Morgana's, who, with a serious look, was looking at the girl.

 

"Do you really believe that?"

 

"What if…what if magic isn't something you choose? What if it chooses you?"

 

Merlyn knew she was looking too intently at Morgana, she was moved by her understanding.

 

Morgana noticed it. "Why are you looking at me like that?"

 

"Nothing."

 

Merlyn already had an accusation that she was in love with Gwen, she didn't want Morgana to start believing that she was actually in love with her.

 

"And why are you helping him?"

 

"It was a decision made on the spot."

 

Morgana smiled at her.

 

Merlyn looked at the Druid before saying. "We should take him back to his people."

 

Morgana looked at her arm. "He can't go hurt. He wouldn't survive the journey."

 

Merlyn shook her head.

"No, you are right. The wounds on his arm can be very dangerous. We would need two days for him to heal. Then he will be taken outside the walls. I can do it."

 

"No." Morgana denied, looking at her seriously. "If Uther found you, you'd be killed. He wouldn't even hesitate. To me, he owes my father, who died for him. He wouldn't kill me, and in time, he'd forgive me. I will be the one doing it."

 

Then, the two girls looked at the boy again.

 

"Once he's better and fit to go on any journey."

 

Merlyn nodded.

 

Leaving Camelot, the druids would have had to flee far away.

 

Uther would not stop until the druid died.

 

***

Seeing Arthur work with them to save the druid after the first plan failed gave Merlyn hope.

 

She had entered while the two half-brothers were talking, the conversation with the dragon fresh in her mind.

 

Merlyn had believed the Great Dragon when he told her that it was her destiny to protect Arthur Pendragon.

 

She had believed him when he said they were two halves of one whole, that they couldn't be separated.

 

She had believed him when he told her that they shared a great and splendid destiny together, the golden age.

 

But how could she believe him, now that he was telling her that she should let a child die for words spoken in fear?

 

How could she believe him?

 

Merlyn had to choose: betray the fate they predicted for her and Arthur, or betray herself?

 

Seeing Arthur take matters into his own hands and fight for the druid made Merlyn choose.

 

The Great Dragon was too bitter to be a good guide for her.

 

She needed some new help.

 

And she knew who to turn to.

Chapter 2: Chapter 2

Summary:

The Dark Knight made his appearance.

Merlyn had to save Arthur's life, again

Tracking down the druids after Arthur had gone hadn't been difficult.

 

As they had expected, Morgana hadn't been suspected and, of course, Uther would never have blamed Arthur for such a betrayal.

 

Merlyn, the next evening, when all the Castle was asleep, slipped out, passing through the servants' corridors as silently as possible, towards the dark forest, where she knew the meeting had taken place.

 

Walking, her blue cloak raised over her head, Merlyn carefully surveyed her surroundings.

 

"Emrys."

 

She turned away.

 

A tall man with his gray hair was looking at her.

 

"Why do you call me that? My name is Merlyn."

 

The druid smiled. "Not for us. Not for the prophecy, Emrys."

 

Merlyn let her hood fall off her face before she said. "How's the child?"

 

"Arthur Pendragon brought him back to us, safe and sound. Your magic and healing have allowed our people to embrace a member again."

 

Merlyn sighed in relief before saying.

"I come here with a question."

 

"Ask, Emrys."

 

The girl, when she was about to ask for information on the prophecy, realized that she did not know the name of her interlocutor.

 

"Forgive me, what's your name?"

 

"Iseldir, Emrys. My name is Iseldir."

 

"You can call me Merlyn. It's the name I feel belongs to me the most."

 

Iseldir nodded, and Merlyn sat down on the floor, mimicking his position after her introduction.

 

"Ask what ails you, Merlyn."

 

"I learned about my destiny by talking to an acquaintance in Camelot." She started the girl, hesitant.

 

"Gaius?" Iseldir aske, something disappointed in his eyes.

 

"Gaius? No, he never mentioned any prophecies. Why? Did he know about them?"

 

"Gaius practiced magic, when Uther's heart was not yet so filled with hatred. For the king's sake, he betrayed his kind."

 

Merlyn gulped. "I had no idea. No, it was the Great Dragon who told me about it. He told me what my destiny was, to protect Arthur until his time as king."

 

Iseldir nodded slowly, and Merlyn continued.

 

"At first I didn't believe him, Arthur didn't seem to have any good qualities, but then I realized that he did have many of them."

 

"So what brought you all the way here to ask for my advice?" Iseldir asked.

 

"He said about the child. He said he was destined to kill Arthur."

 

Iseldir sighed, looking away.

"He's not the only one who thinks that's true. However, dragons can be bad advisers for the future. They don't get the chance to interfere as much as they'd like, and their advice is extremely vague and inaccurate under the best of conditions. I guess that dragon , in particular, has a deep desire for revenge against Camelot and its inhabitants."

 

"Why?" Merlyn shook her head, saying. "Uther gave the order, but the others? They're innocent!"

 

"Potentially, they are like Uther."

 

"And potentially, they're like Gwen, Morgana, Arthur. They don't deserve to die. And neither does the child."

 

"Mordred has a mention in Arthur's fate. He will be the one to kill him."

 

"And is it the only one in existence? Or is it a self-fulfilling prophecy, like… everyone is going to treat him accordingly, and then he becomes who he is meant to be?"

 

Iseldir sighed, saying. "That's why I offered him a place with us. Merlyn. I can't convict him of something he hasn't done yet."

 

"Even I couldn't let him die. Arthur saved his life, that must have some importance."

 

"It sure has some for you."

 

"It's the first time he's protected a wizard. Someone with magic."

 

Iseldir smiled at her. "So, young witch, it seems you have decided the path to follow."

 

Merlyn looked at him uncertainly before he said.

 

"Druids have the ability to talk to each other even from great distances. Come here every week. I will try to teach you what the druids know."

 

"Really?"

 

Iseldir smiled at her, before getting up.

"Of course, Merlyn. I've realized that you know nothing of the theory of magic, no spells except those you learn out of necessity. Magic is not just a sword, it's also a shield, a blindfold, a shelter."

 

Merlyn smiled, grateful. "Thank you. It means a lot to me."

 

*****

"Do you solemnly swear to govern the people of this kingdom and its territories according to the statutes, customs and laws established by your ancestors?"

 

Arthur knelt before the king and his father, carrying out the coronation ceremony as heir of Camelot for which he had always been educated.

 

"I swear it, Sire."

 

Merlyn, still elated from last night's conversation with Iseldir, watched with vibrant pride as the prince was sworn in, sure he would make a better king than Uther ever could be.

 

"Do you promise to exercise mercy and justice in your decisions and judgments?"

 

"I swear it, Sire."

 

Uther extended the scepter forward, perpendicular to his chest.

"And do you pledge, here and now, allegiance to Camelot, and for all your life?"

 

Arthur grabbed the scepter and announced. "I, Arthur Pendragon, consecrate my life and my flesh to your service and to the protection of this realm and its people."

 

Merlyn didn't realize the smirk Gwen wore when she looked at her, concentrated as she was in her pride at how seriously Arthur was taking the oath.

 

A mere formality, according to the servant, but extremely important for those who, unlike her, did not know Arthur personally.

 

Uther smiled at his son, a short but meaningful smile, before taking the crown prince's horn and continuing to speak.

"Having come of age, and as sole heir, you will henceforth be crown prince of Camelot."

 

Uther placed the crown on his son's head, before stepping back and allowing his son to stand, to the applause of the crowd.

 

Merlyn finally caught sight of Gwen's smile, groaning internally as she realized what she would do to her.

 

"So, how does it feel to be the servant of the Crown Prince of Camelot?"

 

"Washing his royal socks will be an even greater privilege." Merlyn answered dryly, not noticing how Arthur's gaze searched for her for a moment, and concentrated on not letting Gwen focus too much on her.

 

"You're proud of him, even if you keep complaining about it." The other servant laughed, and Merlyn denied it. "It is not true!"

 

"I can see it in your face."

 

"Those socks are sparkling clean. Of course I'm proud of them!"

 

Gwen laughed at the servant's response as a knight and steed entered the ceremonial hall, smashing the window and causing glass debris to fall onto the tables.

 

Arthur, followed by his knights, drew his sword, ready to do battle with the masked man.

 

Among the general silence, the knight led his horse to where the knights of Camelot were ready to fight, before stopping in front of Arthur and unfastening his wrist, making it fall to the ground, as a sign of challenge from the knights.

 

Merlyn stared at his friend and prince in fright.

 

No man could leap into a hall through the window and not get a scratch, unless he used magic to help himself.

 

In the code of knights, however, if any knight declared a formal challenge, not even Uther could interrupt it.

 

Arthur sheathed his sword, before glaring at the masked man and stooping to pick up the piece.

 

Merlyn felt guilty, sighing with relief when she realized the glove had already been picked up, terrified when she realized it was Oiwan.

 

Of all the knights, Oiwan was the youngest and kindest, not ready to engage in any duel.

 

"I, Sir Oiwan, accept your challenge."

 

Now, no one could interfere.

 

"Single combat. Tomorrow at noon. To the death."

 

And then, the knight walked down the street again, leaving the ceremonial hall, still amidst the shocked silence of those present.

 

***

As she got ready to go to rest, Merlyn turned to Giusi, asking.

 

"Have you ever heard of this Black Knight before?"

 

"I do not think so." The physician replied.

 

"Didn't you recognize his crest?"

 

Crest?"

 

"What house is it?"

 

"I'm not sure. I haven't seen it properly."

 

"But it's not something you forget quickly."

 

Gaius simply looked at her before answering. "No."

 

"So you don't think he's from around here?"

 

"Seems likely."

 

"So what is he doing here?"

 

Gaius, just then, stopped and looked at her. "Your faith in my omniscience is heartwarming and misplaced at the same time. Perhaps, if you've finished your work, you can go to bed and let me finish mine."

 

Merlyn nodded, watching the potion boiling. "Do you need any help?"

 

"No, Merlyn, I can finish by myself. Without constant interruptions from you."

 

The girl nodded, before wishing the physician good night and stomping up the stairs.

 

One of the things she missed most about home was being able to watch her mother work with her potions and talk to her, the woman who encouraged her curiosity.

 

In Camelot, the tranquility of country life was lost, and the possibility of asking for help from everyone.

 

Everyone was focused on themselves, or on their family, and no one ever had time to talk.

 

It made her sad.

 

***

 

"Are you sure what we're doing?"

 

When even Gaius could not deny that the Black Knight could not be alive, and had decided to control what was his fear, Merlyn did not expect to be dragged into the crypts of the castle, where, the last time she was, the Great Dragon had charged her with killing an innocent child because of what he might do.

 

"Don't tell me you're scared." Gaius answered her, while he started to go down the stairs.

 

"No, I love old crypts. There's no better place to die." replied, sarcastically the girl.

 

Growing up in the countryside strengthened her character, but it also made it difficult to go indoors and dark places, unless we were talking about caves and grottoes, where however the sunlight entered and illuminated most of the way.

 

She and Will often played in the caves behind Ealdor, their way of avoiding shifts at the chicken coop with the chickens and old Tom.

 

The flashlight behind them went out, and everything went dark.

 

Gaius looked towards where the flame was burning. "Must have been a gust of wind. We should have brought a flashlight with us."

 

Merlyn, seeing an unlit torch near her, lit it with her magic, and picked up the lit torch.

 

"Really useful." Gaius commented, making her shrug in response. "Yeah."

 

"What are we looking for?" She finally asked, following Gaius through the rows of dead. "Are we breaking into someone's grave?"

 

Finally, they came to a completely destroyed tomb.

 

"We arrived late. I think someone has already violated it."

 

***

Back to the physician's room, Gaius explained.

 

“Tristan de Bois was the brother of Ygraine, the wife of Uther.”

 

"Arthur's mother?" Merlyn asked.

 

Gaius nodded. "Ygraine died giving birth to him. He blamed Uther, came to the gates of Camelot and challenged him."

 

"In single combat?"

 

"Uther won. But in his last sigh, Tristan cursed Camelot and said that, one day, she would see his return. I thought they were gibberish from a dying man."

 

"Men don't come back to life after death, despite being angry." Pointed out Merlyn, wondering why Tristan should blame Uther for a natural death.

 

Was it the king who had lobbied for an heir?

 

Sadly, dying in childbirth was not unusual, even for nobles.

 

"My guess is that we're dealing with a specter."

 

Merlyn looked questioningly at her mentor. "A specter?"

 

"A dead man's spirit, summoned from the grave."

 

"So it's the work of a sorcerer?"

 

"Only a powerful spell could bring a troubled soul back to life."

 

Merlyn grimaced.

 

There was no shortage of powerful sorcerers who wanted revenge on Uther.

 

"How do we stop it?"

 

"We can't. Since he's already dead, no mortal weapon can kill him."

 

"There must surely be something." Merlyn stood up.

 

Oiwan was already dead, and Pellinor, still wounded from their last mission, would not survive.

 

"Nothing will stop him until he achieves what he came to do."

 

"And what would it be?"

 

"Revenge."

 

"On Camelot?"

 

Gaius nodded.

 

"What will be the fate of Sir Pellinor?"

 

"I'm afraid it's not the most rosy."

 

***

 

The evening after Pellinor's contest, which ended with the knight's death and Arthur grasping the gauntlet, Merlyn disappeared into the woods behind Camelot, seeking Iseldir.

 

As she walked through the woods, her blue hood raised over her head, Merlyn smiled as she heard some footsteps follow her.

 

Many small and light steps, like those of a child, or a very young adult.

 

When she turned around, however, she saw no one.

 

Finally, she stopped, and the steps became faster and more contented.

 

When she turned, Mordred embraced her. "You came!"

 

"Hello, Mordred. It's good to hear your voice."

 

Mordred smiled at her, wrapping his arms around her waist.

 

Merlyn looked up as she heard Iseldir approach her.

 

"Iseldir." Merlyn bowed her head towards the chief of the druid tribe, nod promptly returned by the man.

 

"Merlyn. We've been waiting for your visit."

 

"I had a question. About a lot of things, to be honest. About the history of Camelot."

 

Iseldir sat down, and Merlyn before him. "We believe a specter has been summoned to exact its revenge on Uther."

 

Iseldir smiled sadly. "Uther has committed many crimes, Merlyn. Against many people. That a man was so bitter in his life that he could be called back from the dead comes as no surprise to me."

 

"It's about the brother of Ygraine, Arthur's mother."

 

Merlyn watched as Iseldir's expression changed.

 

"Why blame Uther for a death in childbirth?"

 

"Ygraine was very young."

 

"Like many nobles and queens. They have to give an heir to the king, it was not a rare possibility. Why challenge Uther to a duel, to the death?"

 

"Ygraine was very young and sadly barren."

 

"How was Arthur born, then?"

 

Iseldir looked at her, and Merlyn took a deep breath. "Uther has turned to magic."

 

"The magic of life and death is a magic that only Priestesses could do, Merlyn. And Uther was a close friend of one of them."

 

"Who?"

 

"Nimueh."

 

Merlyn shook her head in disbelief.

 

"Why then hunt down all those sorcerers? Innocent people?"

 

"Revenge for the life taken. Uther knew there would be a price to pay, and he had hoped Nimueh would take that from anyone else. But the magic chose the mother of the born child, to give the child protection. Uther didn't appreciate the price of his decision, and persecuted millions of innocent people."

 

"How could he? I guess there were many in his court, then. Gaius, for example."

 

"How do you think he got the power?"

 

"He used sorcerers?"

 

"He had many witches and wizards under his command and guidance. Uther was friends with many of them and valued their talent and loyalty. Besides, his wife's death ruined a good king into a tyrant."

 

"The hate consumed him." Merlyn shook her head, before looking up and saying. "I understand Uther's mistakes. But I can't let the revenge go on any longer. The wraith, there must be a way to stop it."

 

"No mortal weapon can kill him."

 

"Okay, and what weapon can do that, then?" Merlyn asked, making the old Druid smile.

 

"A sword spawned from a dragon's breath might do the trick."

 

"Forged from a dragon's breath?"

 

Merlyn stared at Iseldir, who nodded and smiled. "Exactly."

 

"I can ask the dragon to forge a sword for Arthur. He too must want his life to continue."

 

"Obviously." Iseldir looked up at the sky. "I'd hurry if I were you, Merlyn. Soon you won't have a chance to enter the castle."

 

"Thank you, Iseldir."

 

Merlyn then kissed Mordred's head, saying. "See you next time I come herb picking, Mordred."

 

Then, she finally looked at Iseldir again. "If ever you need a place to rest, ask in Ealdor about Hunith. She is my mother. Tell her you know me and she will help you."

 

"Thank you, Merlyn. Your heart and mind are right and good."

 

***

 

"My father always kept this one aside. He always said it was the best sword he ever forged."

 

Gwen, after Merlyn had asked her for the best sword she owned, had brought it to her house, showing her a sword that had been well hidden from the eyes of passers-by, wrapped in a red cloak.

 

"It's perfect."

 

Merlyn was not familiar with swords, but she could appreciate the beauty of that particular sword.

 

"If he finds out I've taken it, he'll kill me."

 

"He will understand." Merlyn reassured her, looking seriously at her friend. "You did it for Arthur."

 

"I knew you were really proud of him."

 

The two smiled, and Merlyn admitted.

 

"He saved me, Gwen. He disobeyed his father for me, and I know Morgana encouraged him, but he did. He deserves my loyalty."

 

Gwen smiled, obviously proud that she was right.

 

***

 

The next day, Merlyn waited by the prince's armor for Arthur to arrive.

 

The sword, forged from the breath of Kilgarrah, as he had discovered the dragon's name was, who had seemed puzzled by his request, was beautiful.

 

"It's a great blade."

 

Merlyn turned, wincing when she saw Uther in the doorway.

 

"It's for Arthur."

 

"He won't need it today. I'll take Arthur's place."

 

"But Sire"

 

"Prepare me for combat." the king told her, looking at her.

 

"Arthur should be fighting."

 

"The resentment is against me. It's my fight."

 

"I don't have your armor." Merlyn said, resting his sword on her red fleece.

 

"This will do. It won't make a difference anyway."

 

The sentence made Merlyn think.

 

Uther might be cruel to magic, unfairly considering the role he had played in his wife's death, but he sure loved his son.

 

And Gaius must have told him about his fears.

 

"I'll take your sword from you" said the servant, when she saw the king looking at the sword created for Arthur, Excalibur.

 

"This will do."

 

"No, Sire. You don't understand. That was custom made for Arthur."

 

Merlyn began adjusting the armor breastplate to the king, which she asked for. "Who forged it?"

 

"Tom, the blacksmith." Merlyn answered, not lying but not completely telling the truth.

 

Tom had forged it, but not for Arthur.

 

"It's fit for a king."

 

"I think it's best to use a sword you trust." Groped Merlyn, finishing tying her shoulder strap.

 

"No, it's almost perfectly balanced."

 

Then, the doubt.

 

"Tom is not the court blacksmith. I'm surprised Arthur went to him."

 

"It was me." Merlyn said, lowering her gaze when Uther looked at her, before raising his own and admitting. "I thought he needed a better sword."

 

"You show him total loyalty." Uther said, his voice low.

 

"It's my job, Sire." Merlyn said, tying up the glove.

 

"But you go beyond your duties."

 

Merlyn handed him the helmet, saying. "I like to think I'm of use to him that way, my lord. I want him to know he can count on me. That I would never betray him."

 

"I'm glad to hear it." Uther looked at her before saying. "I had my doubts about you, Merlyn. You being a girl, a peasant. Though you saved my son's life, making you his servant might not be the wisest solution. But, now, I'm grateful. Take care of him."

 

"Always, my lord."

 

***

 

After Uther won the duel, Merlyn knew that sword must go, unless Arthur proved himself a worthy king.

 

On her journey to Avalon, Merlyn was joined by Mordred and Iseldir, along with many druids who saw the journey as a chance to be with her.

 

"Uther wielded Excalibur." Pointed out Iseldir, and Merlyn nodded. "The sword was meant for Arthur, however. I will not allow Uther to use it again. Only when Arthur is king will the sword return to Camelot, in the hands of a good and just king, capable of protecting all of its inhabitants."

 

Iseldir smiled, watching her throw the sword into the waters.

 

"Very well, Merlyn. How can I be of service to you now?"

 

Merlyn looked at him thoughtfully.

 

"Kilgarrah has offered me help in rescuing Arthur, of course. However, I feel I have to repay him for that. I've been thinking about how to do it, and the only thing I can think of is to free him from his chains."

 

"I understand. What do you want to know from me?"

 

"Can you tell me about dragons?"

 

Iseldir smiled at her, and Merlyn prepared to know all about them as they made their way back to Camelot.

Notes:

Merlyn: "Magic must be involved"

Gaius: "No, you're wrong."

A few moments later:
Gaius: "Magic is involved!"

Merlyn: "Shocker"

Chapter 3: Chapter 3

Summary:

The Moment of Truth

Notes:

Hi! I hope you like this!
Also, I have made a discord server to request fics of any fandoms (just so there aren't prompt here), and to discuss my others wips.
https://discord.gg/vYVVM8hNgY

Merlyn joined Arthur on the city ramparts.

 "Sire?"

 "Merlyn?"

 Arthur looked at her, confused.

 Merlyn could understand why.  

 

She seldom addressed him in proper title, and more often than not she addressed some danger the prince might face.

 But this time it was personal.

 "I... I had a favor to ask you."

 The prince's curiosity was relieved.

 Merlyn took a deep breath, and said.  "My mother said that Ealdor, the village where I was born, is threatened by bandits. She requests an audience with the king. Could you ..?"

 "Of course. Where is your mother?"

 Merlyn led him to the physician's room, where her mother was drinking hot tea that Gaius had placed in front of her.

 "Merlyn. Is he…?"

 "Mother, this is Prince Arthur. Sire, this is my mother, Hunith."

 "Nice to meet you, Hunith."  Arthur said, smiling at the woman. 

 At that moment he noticed the bruise above her eye, blue and black, in stark contrast to the pale complexion so similar to her daughter's.

 It was the first time he had met the mother of his servant, yet it was easy for Arthur to see the similarities.

 "The pleasure is mine. And I'm grateful for saving my daughter's life."

 Arthur looked at Merlyn, who was blushing.

 

 "It was no big deal. And I would have been sorry to lose a loyal servant like Merlyn."

 "And for me to lose my daughter so young, not even sixteen."

 Merlyn looked away when Arthur stared at her, shocked this time.

 Merlyn, not only was a girl, but she was also way too young.

 "Then I'm even happier to have taken this journey. Merlyn has never told me how young she is."

 Hunith of hers stared at her daughter, who for the first time since Arthur had seen her,  looked chastened and guilty.

 If he thought it was Gaius who Merlyn listened to the most, he now had proof of his mistake.

 "Merlyn told me you need an interview with the king?"  Arthur asked, drawing the mother's attention away from her daughter for the moment.

 Hunith nodded.  "A band of bandits have targeted our village, and Cenred is not interested in the border areas. With winter coming, we will not be able to survive. Many children will not see the warm season."

 Arthur nodded.  "You will have your interview with my father. I can swear it."

 "Thank you, sir."  Hunith bowed, and Arthur turned to Merlyn.  "After fixing my armor, you are free to stay with your mother."

 Merlyn smiled at him gratefully before bowing and quickly disappearing, heading for the armory, leaving the prince alone for his discussion with the king.

****

"I am sorry."  The prince told her, referring to Uther's refusal to leave to protect Ealdor from the bandits.

 Merlyn understood the logic.

 A single village was not worth a whole treaty with Cenred.

 But, the fact that it was her village, made her appreciate logic much less than hers.

 "If it had been up to me, we would have already left."  The prince confided in her, who had also defended the idea in front of his father, together with Morgana.

 Merlyn had felt warmed by their attention, grateful for their help.

It made her feel even more guilty for the decision she was about to make, or rather, for communicating to her prince about it.

 "You tried and thank you for getting us an audience with the King."

 "I wish Camelot could help people no matter how far away they live."

 "I will return to Ealdor."  Announced Merlyn, instead of reassuring Arthur of Camelot's future under his leadership as king.

 Instead of supporting the prince, as he clearly expected.

"Of course."  Arthur approved, looking at her, before returning his gaze to the moving life of Camelot.

 "It has been an honor to serve you."  Merlyn said, a lump in her throat making it difficult to speak.

 "You will come back."  Arthur said, his voice shaky, his gaze absolutely focused on the servant for the first time in their conversation.

 Merlyn's guilt increased.

 "She's my mother, I have to look after her before anyone else."  Answered Merlyn, a tentative smile on her face as she tried to convey the reason for her departure.

 She could not betray herself for their fate.

 Because betraying herself would betray their fate.

 If one side of the coin became too focused on the other, how could they coexist?

 Should Merlyn's personality have vanished in favor of Arthur's protection and safety?

 And, if so, how could Merlyn advise and guide Arthur towards the right way to rule, removing him from Uther's influences and allowing her ideas to be expressed?

"Do you understand me?"

 Merlyn didn't want Arthur to believe she was abandoning him.

 It wasn't what she wanted to do, or what she ever wanted to do.

 But between her mother and her freedom, Merlyn would always choose her mother.

 "I would do exactly the same thing."  Arthur answered, his voice growing solemn as he accepted that Merlyn, too, in her small way, had duties she could not refuse.  "Well.... you were bad."

 Merlyn laughed as Arthur continued.

 "Really, I mean it. Worst servant I ever had."

 "Thank you, Sire."  the girl told him, with a smile on her face.

 When Arthur looked away from her, Merlyn took it as a signal to leave, bowing her head, unseen, and away from the prince.

 "Merlyn."

 Arthur's call made her turn around.

 "Good luck!"

 Merlyn smiled, bowing her head in thanks, before continuing her journey to Gaius's rooms.

***

 

At Gwen's house, Merlyn had collected some armor to arm his fellow citizens.

 "Here you are."  Gwen told her, giving her a sword, which she hesitantly took.

 "Tell me what you think."

 "It looks like a sword."  Merlyn commented, and Gwen laughed.  "You are not in the wrong."

 Merlyn smiled at her, saying.  "Thanks, Gwen."

 "I've also prepared some armor for you."

 Merlyn looked at the bags that Gwen had packed at that moment.  "I won't be able to carry all that stuff by myself."

 "You won't have to."  Morgana said, as soon as she entered.

 Merlyn looked at her in amazement.

 "We will come with you."

 Merlyn was even more amazed.  "What do you mean?"

 "You're going to need all the help you can get."  Gwen answered, before explaining.  "I can repair armor and sharpen swords."

 Morgana completed.  "And I know how to fight."

 Merlyn laughed, amazed, before speaking.  "But you... you can't."  She shook her head before saying.  "I mean, why would you do that?"

 "As things were reversed, you would have helped us."  Gwen told her, before saying, her tone softer than hers.  "You already did it, you saved my life."

 "And you helped me free the druid from Camelot."  Morgana said.

 "I was the one who involved you with the druid, Morgana. You mustn't do this."  Merlyn shook her  head, trying to talk them out of following her.

 She would use her magic to protect her home, but she didn't want to add betrayal to the wrongs she had done to the two girls.

 "We owe you...both."  Morgana said, ignoring Merlyn's statement.

***

 

At night, while the mother and the two friends were sleeping, Merlyn heard a noise in the woods, near the camp they had improvised.

 Taking the sword that Gwen had given her, Merlyn approached the source of the noise.

 She knew she was ridiculous with a sword, but she'd never been trained to fight.

 Even normal knights didn't start training at fourteen.

 A sword was touching her back.

 "I would ask you for money, but I know you don't have any."

 Merlyn spun, her sword sure to have cut off Arthur's head if the prince hadn't ducked.  "Arthur!"

 Merlyn was smiling at him, a huge smile on her face.

 Arthur looked at her wearily.  "Drop your sword, Merlyn, you're ridiculous."

 Arthur, passing by her, snatched the sword from her hand, then advanced towards the camp, followed by Merlyn immediately after.

 At the fire, Arthur inquired about the bandits they were supposed to stop.

 "How much longer is left?"

 "Maybe a few hours."  Merlyn replied.

 Arthur looked at her before asking.  "How many men does Kanen have?"

 "I'm not sure. I think, from what my mother told me, maybe forty."

 "We should get some rest."  Arthur nodded.

 Merlyn felt compelled to say.  "Thank you. You didn't have to come."

 Arthur looked at her, before standing up and saying.  "Get some sleep."

 When Arthur also lay down, Merlyn put out the fire again and went over to her mother to rest.

**

 

After Merlyn, Gwen, Morgana and Arthur had fought against Kanen, a boy, older than Merlyn, approached her.

 "You still get busy with the same old magic tricks."

 The two exchanged a serious look.

 "Look, I thought I told you we don't want people like you around here."

 The serious gaze continued, until Merlyn laughed, exclaiming.  "I missed you, Will."

 The two embraced.

 "How are you? I hear you're a kitchen boy for some prince."

 "No, I wouldn't say I'm a kitchen boy."  She immediately denied Merlyn.

 "Merlyn!"  Arthur called to her, turning her around.  "Gather the villagers, I have to talk to them."

 Merlyn nodded, trying to protest.

 But she was immediately interrupted.  "Now, Merlyn. There isn't much time."

 Smiling at Will, Merlyn did as she was told.

 

***

As the girl went to get some wood in the woods, following the prince's instructions, she heard herself called.

 "Merlyn!"

 She turned to see Will walking towards her.

 "Where are you going with that thing?"

 "What do you say? We need wood."  Answered Merlyn, smiling back.

 "We both know you don't need an ax to cut down a tree."  Will answered, looking at her.

 "I also remember how much trouble it got me in, nearly knocking down old Simmons."  Merlyn pointed with his axe to the house of the old farmer, who lived very close to the edge of the village and, therefore, to the wood.

 "Yeah, well, he deserved it, that stupid old man."

 "Anyway, he never liked me."  Merlyn shook his head.

 "Well, after that time even less."  Will laughed, making Merlyn laugh too.

 "Why do you behave like this?"  Merlyn asked him after silence had fallen.  "You know why."  Will told her, approaching her.

 Will sat down and, with a knowing look, Merlyn sat next to her childhood friend, who was several years her senior.

 Will and Arthur must have been the same age.

 And Will hadn't rejected her, even when he'd discovered her darkest secret.

 "Why did you leave?"  Asked Will, after both of them had been silent for a while.

 "I didn't want it."  Merlyn assured him seriously.  "My mom was worried. When she found out you knew, she was furious."  She explained, looking away from her friend as she finished the sentence.

 "I wouldn't tell anyone."  Will rebelled at the thought of that, and Merlyn was quick to reassure him.  "Well, I know you wouldn't."

 Will turned to look at her.  "You would be able to defeat Kanen by yourself, right?"

 "I don't know, maybe."  Merlyn said, wincing at the thought of it.

 "Then what's stopping you? What does it matter if Arthur finds out?"

 "It's not just that, Will."  Merlyn shook her head, then said.  "If the others in the village found out, I would have to run. And Camelot would no longer be an option, because Arthur would have me killed."

 "Do you think Arthur would kill you if he knew you had magic?"  Will asked, and Merlyn nodded.  "Yes. He's not my friend. He's helping his awkward servant who he thinks is stupid, not a witch. He would have me beheaded, if he knew who I really am."

 "I can protect you. And if you save it, not even the people of the village will betray you."

"Let's make a deal."  Merlyn stepped forward.  "Let Arthur train them. Prepare them for battle. And, if things go wrong… I will use my magic to save us. I will not let anyone endanger my home. Even if I have to escape afterwards."

 "I'll go with you."  Will said, and Merlyn looked at him in amazement.  "Why?"

 "You've already gone on a dangerous journey alone. Wherever we go, we will be together."

 "As you like. It would be nice to be you and me."  Merlyn smiled and Will smiled back.

***

 

When she saw Arthur sitting sharpening his sword, Merlyn sat next to him.

 Will had again spoken out against Arthur's plan, Merlyn's promise to intervene not good enough for him.

 "William's father died fighting for King Cendred."  Said the girl, the memories of her friend's tears fresh in her memory.  "That's why he doesn't trust any noble."  She finally explained, looking at the prince.

 "And you, do you do it?"

 "I don't trust any noble, no. A peasant doesn't trust nobles, Arthur. We are nothing to them."

 

 Arthur sighed, and Merlyn continued.  "But I trust you."

 The prince looked at her before asking.  "Do you think the people of the village believe him?"

 Merlyn chuckled, shaking his head.  "Nah. They'd never believe me or Will. We've always been Ealdor's troublemakers."  then, sadder.  "They're used to ignoring us."

 "What if he's right?"

 "He's not right. Not about this. Not about you, Arthur. Will assumes you're like all other nobles, princes and kings. But he's wrong."

 "How can you be sure?"

 "You wouldn't be here, Arthur. You wouldn't have saved my life."

 "I treat these men as soldiers and they are not."  Arthur said, not ready to face the discussion with the girl.  "You saw them fight."  The prince's voice began to sound desperate.  "They have no idea what they're doing."

 

 Then, the resignation.  "You must tell everyone to leave the village before Kanen returns."

 "No, we will stay. We will fight."  Merlyn spoke confidently to the prince.  "And we will win."

 "Merlyn."  Arthur shook his head, before looking at the servant.  "It can't be done. It's too risky."

 "It can. We'll make Kanen curse the day he came to this village. You just have to prepare the men for battle, and the rest will follow."

 "How?"  the prince asked her.

 "You just have to believe in them."  Merlyn stared at Arthur gravely in the face.  "Because if you don't, they will feel it, and the battle will be lost before it even begins."

 Arthur nodded, before saying.  "When you first came to Camelot… who traveled with you?"

Surprised by the change of subject, Merlyn took a while to reply.  "Nobody."

 "Did you embark on a minimum two-day trip alone? With no one with you to protect you?"

 "I had nothing worth stealing."  Merlyn shook her head, and Arthur looked at her, dumbfounded.  "Apart from yourself, you mean?"

 "You can't steal a person, at most you can kidnap them."  The girl shrugged, and Arthur blinked.  "Why alone?"

 "No one would have had the resources to go with me and then come back. If I was on foot, I wouldn't have made any noise."

 "On foot? Did you make the journey from Ealdor to Camelot on foot, alone, and at fifteen?"

 "I'm fourteen. I turned fourteen the day I became your servant."

 Arthur stared at her, amazed.

 

 Then, he looked away.  "Don't stay here after."

 "Arthur..."

 "I know she is your mother, but… The reason I came was to show you that I would help you, in need. I can still make the journey from Camelot to Ealdor, in need, and when I am king, I can send men, along with us. I can protect your home. Your mother would know where to get help."

 "Arthur.."

 "No."  Arthur shook his head.  "Come back with us to Camelot."

 "Arthur, let me talk."  Merlyn said.  "I was born in Ealdor, my family is here. My mother is here. And if she needs my help, I can't deny it. Not after all the sacrifices she's made for me."

 "I know. I understand. But... I can always come with you, to help you."

 "I thought I was the worst servant you ever had."

 "And you are the most loyal, and the most honest. You have drunk poison for me, Merlyn. Your age only makes me appreciate your courage and your loyalty. I want to have you with me. I think I need it."

 "Really?"  The girl asked, surprised.

 The prince was often rude, most of the time he threw things after her and was standoffish.

 He had never been so sentimental before.

 "Before I met you, I would never have set out to protect a village just because my servant cared about it. I would never have disobeyed my father, the king, for a servant. It makes me a better king."  Then, a moment of silence.  "You make me a better king."

 Merlyn smiled.  "Will said he'd come with me if I left again."

 "Will can come too. The whole village can come, if it make you  get back."

 Merlyn laughed, gasping for breath.  "Okay. If after the battle you still think so... I'll come back with you."

 "Nothing could ever change my mind."

 "You can't know that."

***

"Why did Kanen and his men run away?"

 Merlyn was touring the village, determining what work would be needed to repair the damage done to the village in the fighting.

 Women, men, all Ealdor,  had fought and won.

 When Will had appeared and fought alongside Merlyn, it had been the highlight of the girl's day.

 Her mother was treating Matthew, a close childhood friend of hers and always been there for Merlyn while she was growing up.

 Nobody was dead.

 Because the bandits had escaped.

 Merlyn turned to Will, who was leaning against a wall, while Merlyn was straightening and adjusting a field fence.

 "They saw us react and got scared."  She explained, finishing staring at the fence on the ground.

 "Of course. Forty men able to fight, cruel and without morals fled because the peasants were holding swords."

 "It makes sense."  Nodded Merlyn at Will's report.

 "Merlyn?"  Will smiled, "What did you do?"

 "I used magic, Will."  Merlyn admitted, before saying.  "I met some people near Camelot. The Druids."

 "I thought they were all dead."

 "No, not all of them. Arthur and Morgana helped me get him to safety."  Merlyn grimaced.  "Morgana helped me, and Arthur, Morgana. He doesn't know that I was the first to save Mordred."

 "Okay?"

 "They're teaching me magic, the history of it. How it was before Uther began his great purge."

 "Was it good?"

 "Will, it was beautiful."  Merlyn smiled, looking at the trees.  "Do you remember when I told you about nature in my opinion?"

 "You made me feel guilty for liking the hunt."  Her friend laughed, staring at Merlyn.

 "Well, even those who didn't have the gift felt that way. Wizards were appreciated, they were esteemed. They were well liked. Food wasn't scarce, shelters didn't collapse, bandits didn't attack, soldiers didn't die in large numbers in war. It was peaceful, for the most part. The hunt was out of need, not out of necessity, and they were life-threatening animals that let themselves be shot."

 "And then Uther happened."

 "Yes. However, they taught me various spells. This was the one that was used on the enemy who attacked for money. The spell of fear."

 "What does it do?"  Will asked curiously.

 "Let's just say that Kanen will never again attack this village, nor any of his men. Together with other men or alone, they will very often avoid Ealdor. Forever."

 Will smiled, returning Merlyn's smile, before becoming serious.  "You are returning to Camelot. You have used the magic, but you are returning to the castle. With Arthur."

 "There are prophecies, Will. According to some of them, Arthur is the king who will restore Albion to its former glory."

 "And?"

 "I am his guide. I have to get him on the right path."

 Will looked at her before hugging her.

 "This place has gotten boring without you. It was nice to see you again."

 Merlyn returned the hug.  "Me too, Will."

Chapter 4: Chapter 4

Summary:

Unicorn, Anhora, Gedref

Notes:

Hi, long time eh?

I hope you'll like this new chapter!

Merlyn hadn't imagined that there was so much history behind dragons.

Apparently, Iseldir had told, the dragons lived among some worthy men, descendants of the first men who had been given the power to speak with dragons and tame them.

 

A great gift, bestowed by some dragons who had valued all descendants of that bloodline as worthy of being dragonlords.

Merlyn had tried to figure out how to find a dragonlord, only to find that they had all been slain by Uther and nearly all of the dragons, with the exception of Kilgharrah, slain.

 

The difficulty of the task had certainly not stopped the girl, who would not have allowed anything to come between her and her ultimate goal of freeing Kilgharrah from unjust imprisonment, without allowing him to harm the innocent population of Camelot.

 

And, for having assured that kind of justice, she needed a dragonlord.

 

So she, full of patience, had sifted through all Geoffrey's books, to be able to find the list of those who served at the court before the queen's death.

 

Finding a secret passageway in the library that led to an entire room of magical exhibits had been a lucky accident.

 

Finding the list she so longed for in that secret room had been a coincidence she would not dispute.

 

Sadly, her research was constantly interrupted.

 

On that occasion, she thought as she followed Arthur, it was the hunt that stopped her search for the names.

 

Many names had crime, possessing magic, and a date of death next to them.

 

A few, very few, had managed to run away, but they lacked the power to rule dragons.

 

Merlyn was happy for the few who survived and devastated for all the others who didn't.

 

Arthur gave directions to his men, before motioning the girl laden with hunting supplies to approach.

 

"What is it?"  she whispered, hoping it was nothing and they would get away without killing anyone.

 

"I don't know yet. We surround him. You go in there and let him out."

 

"Do you want me to go in there? You just said you don't know what it is, it could be dangerous."

 

Merlyn glared at the prince, thinking that maybe she should have stayed and looked up the names of live dragonlords.

 

"Let's hope. Come on, go."

 

Merlyn walked forward, weighed down by bags that she clearly hadn't been able to put down and that would never be of any help to her.

 

When she arrived in the clearing, her heart stopped.

 

An unicorn, beautiful and majestic, stood before her.

 

The creature's immortal gaze made her feel worthy .

 

Even if Merlyn did not consider herself worthy of being in front of such a beautiful and pure creature.

 

"Go, Go!"

 

The unicorn whinnied.

 

"Please go away. They will kill you."

 

The unicorn ignored her and Merlyn saw Arthur aiming his crossbow.

 

"Arthur, no!"

 

Too late, ignoring his servant, the arrow struck the unicorn's side, causing the creature to collapse to the ground in pain.

 

"I'm sorry, I'm so sorry."

 

Merlyn cradled her muzzle, weeping for her death, her own heart aching for her.

 

Arthur arrived shortly after, victorious.

 

"An unicorn!"

 

"What have you done?"  Merlyn asked, looking at the prince who snorted.  "Don't be such a girl, Merlyn."

 

Merlyn looked up, seeing a man behind Arthur, with cloak and staff.

 

Then, she returned her gaze to the creature, standing up.

 

"I will not arrange her meat for your amusement."

 

"Merlyn."

 

"Do it yourself, if you like it so much."

 

With tears streaming down her cheeks, Merlyn returned to the horses.

 

***

 

"Any ideas what destroyed the harvest?"

 

Merlyn asked, approaching her mentor as he worked.

 

"I still have to conduct all the tests."  Gaius answered her, continuing.  "No disease I know of can destroy an entire crop overnight."

 

Merlyn asked.  "What else but a disease can kill plants?"

 

Gaius replied.  "It's not killing all the plants. The hedges and trees around the crops are perfectly fine. Unfortunately, you can't eat them."

 

"Does it only kill edible plants?"

 

"Apparently."  Gaius told her, shaking a test tube to make its contents react.

 

"Gaius... Arthur killed a unicorn and this happens the next day?"

 

Gaius looked at her, the rebuke written on his face.  "Don't always blame magic, Merlyn. The scientific method will lead us to the solution."

 

"I wonder why my mother sent me to you."

 

Gaius looked at her, transfixed. "Merlyn."

 

"You teach me nothing but fear for who I am, for how I was born! You don't listen to any of my ideas and you treat me like I'm a fool who knows nothing about life."

 

Merlyn shook her head, standing up and saying.

 

"If you won't listen to my ideas, I'd better offer comfort to people who are dying from food shortages."

 

Gaius watched the girl leave the room, feeling guilty for having disappointed Hunith and the young woman.

***

Merlyn had found the druids near Camelot.

 

"You must leave."  She told them, and Iseldir looked at her in surprise.

 

"The crops are failing and I know Uther will blame magic. If he knows you're here, he won't hesitate to kill you all."

 

"Thanks for warning us, Merlyn. On our journey, can we do anything for you?"

 

"Unicorns... does killing one deserve such a punishment?"

 

Iseldir nodded.

 

Merlyn sighed.  "I'll try to show Arthur the reason, but I can't promise much. Thank you for your help."

 

"We will travel a lot."  Pointed out Iseldir to her and Merlyn nodded.  "Do you know if a dragonlord managed to escape?"

 

"There are rumors. Balinor, they say his name is."

 

"Can you find it? Look for him?"  Merlyn asked and Iseldir nodded. "We will look for him."

 

"Thank you."  Merlyn said and Iseldir, as she walked away, murmured.  "Thank you."

***

Talking to Arthur was as helpful as talking to a deaf donkey.

 

"Have you thought about what Anhora told you last night?"

 

"Well, he may have escaped last night, but at least now we know who we're looking for. I told my father I'll find this Anhora and put an end to this."

 

"What if he tells the truth about the curse?"

 

"Do you think I'm responsible for bringing suffering to my people?"

 

"No."  Merlyn denied, sure of what she was saying, but also sure of everything else she was about to say.  "When you killed the unicorn I saw Anhora in the forest."  She admitted, turning to the prince who was putting on a pair of boots.

 

"Why didn't you say anything?"

 

"I saw him for a moment and he disappeared. I didn't know who he was. I thought it was a hallucination. But I'm sure he was there."

 

"That doesn't prove anything."  The prince denied.

 

"Doesn't that make you think he might be right?"

 

"Why was he wandering in the forest?"  Arthur snorted before saying.  "I trust him even less."

 

"Why would Anhora appear in Camelot and then lie to you?"

 

"He was cornered, he just figured out a way to leave by blaming me."  Arthur explained, making the servant snort.

 

Merlyn had stopped in front of the table where, on the other side, Arthur was pulling on his second boot.

"Arthur, he can disappear, he doesn't need to figure out a way to leave."

 

"My father warned me about sorcerers like him."  Arthur had risen to his feet, staring at the servant.  "They won't stop until our kingdom is destroyed."

 

"I think he's telling the truth."  Merlyn said, trying to ignore the pain in her chest from the prince's sentence, pain accentuated by the next sentence.

 

"Then you're a fool. You can't trust a word spoken by a sorcerer. Remember that very well."

 

Assuming Arthur was gone, Merlyn took a deep breath.

 

"I'll try to sort it out, then. I hope it's enough for Anhora."

***

Merlyn had gone into the middle of the forest, screaming for the sorcerer.

 

"Anhora!"

 

"You wanted to talk to me?"

 

Merlyn turned to see Anhora before her.

Immediately, she knelt.

 

Anhora looked surprised, but the girl didn't make him say anything.

"Please listen to me. The people of Camelot don't deserve to die for the pride of a few. What evil have the common people done? What sin must they atone for with their death?"

 

Anhora stepped forward, placing a hand on her shoulder.  "Child, I'm not happy to see them die and suffer. I'm not the one giving the curse."

 

"No, but can't you stop it in any way? Arthur feels guilty for the suffering of his people!"

 

"He must be pure in heart."

 

"He's come to save my village from bandits, a village outside the territory of Camelot. Doesn't that make him pure enough?"

 

Anhora looked thoughtful, before asking, his voice soft. "Do you trust Arthur?"

 

"I'd trust him with my own life."  She admitted, and Anhora nodded.  "Go to Gedref's Labyrinth. There, you will face the final test."

 

"Thank you, Anhora."  Merlyn said, looking at the sorcerer who smiled at her sadly, before nodding.

 

Then, Anhora disappeared and Merlyn touched the muzzle of the horse she had taken from the stables.  "Let's go to Gedref, Safir. Ready?"

The girl mounted her horse and rode it to Gedref.

Without knowing that she was followed by Arthur, on his steed Llmarei, all the way, also listening to the conversation she had had with the sorcerer.

***

In front of the two goblets, Merlyn was surprised to see Arthur.

 

"What are you doing here?"

 

"I heard you decided to contact Anhora and I followed you. Then I discovered that, despite the great trust you placed in me, you decided to take responsibility for my own mistake."

 

"You weren't willing to reason and I couldn't let more people die."

 

Arthur looked at Anhora before asking.  "What is this test all about?"

 

"There are two goblets before you."  Anhora said, pointing out what, according to Merlyn, was rather obvious.  "One of the goblets contains a deadly poison, and the other goblet, a harmless liquid."  Suddenly, Merlyn was afraid that evidence would kill one of them.  "All the liquid contained in both goblets must be drunk, but each of you can drink from only one goblet."

 

"What kind of ridiculous test is this?"  Arthur asked, looking concerned at Merlyn as he did.  "What would it prove?"

 

"It's up to you to decide what it proves. If you pass the test, the curse will be lifted."

 

Anhora then remained silent, giving the two time to decide.

 

"We have to find a way to figure out which chalice contains the poison. Then I'll drink it."  Arthur stated, making Merlyn look up in disbelief.

 

"I'll drink it, Sire."

 

"It's my fault, I won't let you die to fix my mistakes, Merlyn."

 

"You are the future king , I'm just a servant. Which life is more valuable?"

 

"You are not just a servant, Merlyn. Not to me . If I had listened to you, we would not be in this situation. You are much wiser than I could ever be."

 

"Arthur..."

 

"No."  Arthur shook his head.  "I won't let you die for me, Merlyn."

 

"But..."

 

Arthur stopped her, placing a hand on hers. "I'm glad you're here, Merlyn. I'm grateful to have the chance to die with you. I can't think of one last better company."

 

"I got it!"  Merlyn leaned across the table, saying.  "Let's pour all the liquid into one goblet and then we'll be sure it's poisoned. So all the liquid can be drunk, and it will be from one goblet."

Merlyn, pleased with herself, did not realize the deception that Arthur made her.

 

When she turned, nothing coming to hurt her, Arthur had her goblet full of liquid in his hand.

 

"Arthur, you can't!"

 

"Merlyn. Letting you die is not what you taught me. And I'd be a very bad king without you ."

 

Then, looking into her eyes, Arthur drank the goblet.

 

"NO!"

Merlyn touched his face, his cheek, looking for a pulse.

"Anhora, please, him... I had a duty to protect him, it was my destiny."

 

"He's not dead. He's just taken a sip of a sleeping potion. He'll wake up shortly."

 

"What?"  Merlyn looked at him, relieved.

 

"An unicorn is pure in heart. Arthur had to prove his equal to lift the curse. He was ready to die for you. That makes him pure in heart."

 

"He'll be okay?"

 

"Yes, Merlyn, he'll be fine."

 

Merlyn kissed the prince's cheek.

 

"I had heard stories of your magic, Emrys, but never of the kindness of your heart."

 

"I..."

 

"You have walked through Gedref's labyrinth. Only the pure of heart, the worthy, can see the labyrinth. To all others, it is here no more than an impassable and dirty swamp, not worth seeing."

 

"Arthur saw it for what it was."

 

Anhora nodded.  "You were right to believe in him, Merlyn. I shouldn't have doubted your judgment." Merlyn rose as Anhora spoke.  "Besides, the daughter of the triple goddess has a lot to teach."

 

Merlyn looked at him confused.  "My mother is not a goddess. Her name is Hunith. She lives in Ealdor and heals her people. She is not a goddess."

 

"You can be a daughter in many different ways, Merlyn. Emrys has a meaning that cannot be ignored."

 

Merlyn looked at him confused.

 

Arthur moaned and Anhora smiled.

 

"Your friend is about to wake up. Take care of him."

 

Merlyn bowed to the sorcerer. "Thank you for giving me this opportunity."

 

"I could never have denied you, Merlyn. The unicorn chose you. He must have seen something in you."

 

Merlyn smiled and Anhora disappeared.

 

Arthur got up.  "I'm in heaven?"

 

"No, clotpole. You just passed out. Anhora just wanted to prove that you were pure of heart, like a unicorn is."

 

"I'm sorry I didn't listen. You were right."

 

"And you were wrong. And we both know next time you won't listen to me anyway. And I'll have to correct your mistakes, again."

 

Arthur laughed.  "Can I give you something in exchange for this favor you have done in Camelot that my father can't find out about?"

 

"I'll let you know when I have an idea."

 

Arthur laughed and Merlyn shook her head in amusement.

 

 

Notes:

Merlyn: I need a dragonlord
*a lots of pages to study*
Merlyn: They are just people who controls lizards! How there could be that amount of informations???

***

Merlyn: If only there is a way to have all the names of the people killed during the Purge.
*finds a secret room with all the names of the people killed during the Purge*
Merlyn: This is luck! Why is happening to me?

***

Merlyn: And now, I'm going to read till I find the name!
Arthur: Merlyn!
Merlyn: Really? Did you wait till I was comfortable?

***

Merlyn: Don't kill the unicorn, Arthur.
Arthur: *kills the unicorn*
*Camelot starts to suffer*
Merlyn: What a shock.

***

Merlyn: Couldn't be the unicorn?
Gaius: It isn't always magic's fault.
Merlyn: Uh, sorry, where have you lived? I have been here for a week and there is always something related to magic! There is more magic at Camelot than Essetir, and in Essetir it isn't banished!

***

Gaius: Apparently, it is magic.
Merlyn: Well, this is a shock.

***

Merlyn: You need to talk with Anhora.
Arthur: I can't trust a sorcerer.
Merlyn: Fine, I'll go to talk with Anhora, then.

*a few moments later*

Merlyn: What the hell are you doing here?
Arthur: You talked with a sorcerer and I was scared for you.
Merlyn: Okay...

***

Arthur: I'll be a terrible king without you.
Merlyn: And I know that. I'm just surprise that you recognise it.

***

Arthur: *drinks poison*
Anhora: He will wake up in a few moments.
Merlyn: Sometimes I really wish that poison is actual poison. You know, that is what gave me trust issues.

***

Anhora: You are the daughter of the Triple Goddess.
Merlyn: My mom's name is Hunith.
Anhora: There are many ways to be daughter.
Merlyn: Really? What are those?
Anhora: I need to go.

***

Arthur, seeing Merlyn: Am I in heaven?
Merlyn: No, you are in hell, and after I'm done scolding you, you'll wish to be in actual hell.
Arthur: Oh, crap.

***

Arthur: Someone tried to kill me.
Merlyn: Yeah, that happens on dialy basis.
Arthur: You could just show more concern for my life.
Merlyn: When an attempt to your life happens less frequently than once a day, I will show more concern.

Chapter 5: Chapter 5

Summary:

Kilgarrah gets his reward.
Merlyn meets someone that she cared about and someone she never met before.

Notes:

Hi! I hope you'll enjoy this chapter!

Merlyn had seen a hawk sitting on her bed as soon as she returned from her day in Arthur's service.

Surprised, she reached over to read the message that was attached to the animal's right paw.

Merlyn,

I'm aware of the risks of writing this way, but we're too far from Camelot to go back now.

We found this Balinor.

He lives in the caves of Cenred's kingdom, like a hermit.

No one expects him to be of any help to Camelot after the persecution he has been subjected to.

I hope it can help you.

Iseldir

 

Merlyn clicked her tongue.

 

She knew she could not go to Cenred's realm alone .

 

Not leaving from Camelot.

 

Still, she could go home, and ask Will to go with her.

 

Now, she just had to redeem her reward from Arthur.

***

The next morning, Arthur began to stare at his servant for the way she stood, silent, next to him.

 

"Did I do something wrong this morning?"

 

"No, Sire."

 

"Not even yesterday?"

 

"No."

 

"Then why are you staring at me like that? What have I done ?"

 

Merlyn smiled. "Do you remember when you said I would be rewarded for my help in the Anhora matter?"

 

Arthur looked at her. "It's been weeks, why mention it now?"

 

"It's only been one week, sire. And that's because I've decided what to ask."

 

"Let's hear it, then."

 

Merlyn smiled, sitting down at the chair pointed out to her. "You know I never left Ealdor until I came to Camelot. And it's harvest season soon, sire. I wish I could go and help my mother with her land."

 

Arthur murmured a little before saying. "And what about the journey? I'll be honest, I'm not comfortable at the thought of you going to Ealdor alone. I could see first hand how dangerous the road is."

 

"Your father would not allow you to escort a servant , sire. I can manage the journey myself. I would send a message home with one of the merchants who must pass through Cenred's kingdom for supplies anyway. It is the way I am sending letters to my mother."

 

Arthur nodded

Then he sighed. "How long do you think your mother needs you?"

 

"I'd say a couple of days for the journey and then a week there, helping with the harvest." Merlyn nodded, thinking it long enough to find Balinor and strike a deal with him.

 

Arthur sighed. "Very good. You have your free time. If you’re going to be late, find a way to let me know."

 

"Sure, Sire." Merlyn bowed before exiting.

***

Seeing the village of Ealdor was a great experience.

 

Returning without having to save it from bandits was even better.

 

As she passed, many of the inhabitants smiled and greeted her enthusiastically, in a very different way from how they had done when she had left or returned some time ago.

 

As she walked, she began looking for her mother with her gaze, knowing that she would find Will not far from her.

 

When she finally found her mother, she discovered that Will was not the one with her.

 

" Lancelot !"

 

The almost-knight turned, surprised but happy to hear the servant's voice.

 

"Merlyn!"

 

The two hugged.

 

"What are you doing here?" The girl asked, smiling.

 

"I thought I'd drop by to see your mother. She was nice when you first suggested I come here."

 

Hunith laughed. "If you've come to help me with the harvest, Merlyn, you needn't worry. Matthew has thought of everything."

 

" Matthew ? Why?" Merlyn asked, cocking her head.

 

Hunith laughed, without answering, leaving her daughter in doubt.

 

"Is my mother having an affair ?" Merlyn asked, shocked.

 

Lancelot laughed, before hugging Merlyn once more.

 

"I understand that Arthur has come to save your village."

 

"That's what he did, yes. He even admitted that… I make him a better person."

Merlyn smiled at the memory.

Lancelot smiled. "You definitely deserve all of that. And so much more ."

 

"You have no idea how much trouble I caused."

 

"I can imagine." Lancelot laughed, before asking. "What are you doing here instead?"

 

"I kind of wanted to see my mother. Going back to defend the village from bandits wasn't the best situation."

 

"I can imagine." He nodded. Lancelot, who Merlyn remembered then, had lost his family in one of those attacks.

 

"I was kind of hoping to get Will's help with a pretty crazy undertaking."

 

"I am available. Since I have been denied permission to help with the harvest."

 

Merlyn smiled at the boy. "Would you come with me?"

 

"Absolutely yes."

 

"You don't even know what I'm doing."

 

"When do you have to return to Camelot?"

 

"A week and a couple of days." Merlyn replied. "Arthur has no idea how the harvest works anyway. I could be gone for two months before he even notices that something might be wrong."

 

Lancelot smiled. "And where are we headed?"

 

"We are looking for a certain Balinor."

 

Lancelot smiled. "Let's go then."

**

During the trip, Merlyn let Lancelot know all the trouble Arthur had gotten himself into and from which she had rescued him.

 

"Arthur must consider himself lucky to have you."

 

"How he could defend himself against all magical attacks is a mystery to me." Merlyn shook her head.

 

But Lancelot smiled. "Your magic is not your best quality, Merlyn."

 

Surprised, the girl looked at him. "Then what would that be?"

 

"Your heart. You have a good heart, Merlyn. You see the good in everyone around you and you are willing to fight for others."

 

"I just know what it's like to have nothing."

 

"You defend the son of a man who would kill you, if the occasion arises."

 

"It may just be selfish, Lancelot. According to the Prophecy, he will bring magic back to Camelot. I shouldn't fear for my life."

 

"We both know that's not why you defend him."

 

Merlyn didn't answer, allowing Lancelot's words to convince her.

 

They both knew that wasn't why she stayed.

***

When they reached the forest where Balinor had retired, the falcon that had brought her letter appeared again.

 

"Hi. Do you have anything for me?"

 

It flew towards a hidden path, and Lancelot looked at the girl. "Are we going to follow the falcon?"

 

"We are going to follow the falcon." Merlyn nodded, nudging her horse towards the path the hawk had uncovered.

 

With a sigh, Lancelot followed her.

 

"Why are you looking for Balinor, anyway?"

 

"He is a dragonlord." Merlyn answered and Lancelot looked at her, shocked and frightened. "And what do you need a dragonlord for?"

 

"Uther has locked up a dragon in the castle dungeons. I intend to release it, but I don't want the citizens to pay for Uther's actions."

 

"I see. You want someone who can stop the dragon from attacking innocent people."

 

"Precisely."

 

"Why do you want to free the dragon, though?"

 

"Kilgharrah helped me save Arthur's life. Also, he was the first to explain my destiny, that I should protect Arthur. I want to repay him for helping me in the only way I know would make him happy."

 

"You have a good heart, Merlyn." Lancelot nodded. "You and Gwen, both, have the hearts of nobility . In soul, I mean. The purest there is."

 

"You have a noble soul too, Lancelot." Merlyn told him, dismounting in front of a cave, where the hawk had begun to circle.

 

The girl extended her arm, and the hawk leaned on her forearm, remaining there.

 

"I want to know where you find a falcon?" Lancelot asked, looking at the beautiful bird.

 

"It's how Iseldir told me about Balinor. The druids found out where he lived. I had gone to Gedref to stop the famine in Camelot after the unicorn died."

 

Lancelot nodded.

 

The adventure at Gedref had been discussed as a second topic.

 

The first one to leave Merlyn's lips was Gwen and the way she had reacted to Lancelot's departure.

 

Lancelot also dismounted and the two followed the last stretch of the path that led to the cave.

 

"It's not very welcoming." Lancelot muttered and Merlyn shrugged. "I think going to live in a forest, and be alone in a cave, is not an indicator of a very welcoming person."

 

"Why does he live here again?"

 

"Uther slew all the other dragonlords. Too much like magic for him."

 

"That doesn't make the slightest sense." Lancelot shook his head and Merlyn grimaced.

 

It made even less sense when one knew the real reason magic was outlawed.

 

Uther had abused it and hadn't been happy with the result.

 

He would have gladly let anyone but his Ygraine die.

 

And now everyone was paying for his decision.

 

“Who are you?"

 

The two turned and in front of them, a man with black hair, brown eyes, a black beard streaked with gray and a distrustful expression was looking at them.

 

Merlyn stepped forward, before bowing her head.

"My name is Merlyn. I am a servant in Camelot, and I come for help."

 

"Camelot can rot and fall, for all I care."

 

"I don't come to ask for help for Camelot, but in Camelot."

 

Balinor raised an eyebrow before looking at Lancelot. "Who are you?"

 

"My name is Lancelot, Sir Balinor. I wanted to join the knights of Camelot, and Merlyn helped me. Unfortunately, I'm not noble by birth." Lancelot sighed. "I couldn't join them."

 

Balinor looked at Merlyn again. "And what would you want from me, girl?"

 

"There is a dragon under the castle."

 

"Kilgharrah." Balinor murmured.

 

"I'm here to ask for your help in getting him out."

 

"Why should I trust you, girl? Uther has already betrayed me, inviting me to take the last dragon to Camelot to make peace and see him chained and weakened by the liar."

 

"He helped me save the life of Arthur, the prince I serve in Camelot. I want to repay the favor by releasing him from captivity. But I need assurance that the innocent populace won't be punished by the dragon. I need a dragonlord for that. "

 

"I still don't understand why I should trust you."

 

Merlyn smiled, holding out his hand and letting a butterfly fly to it.

 

"You have magic." Balinor murmured.

 

"That's the truth. That's how I was born. My mother sent me to Camelot to see a friend of hers, Gaius, to learn how to control me."

 

"Gaius? A great man. Really, a good man."

 

"He is." Merlyn nodded. "Gaius helped me a lot, he even gave me a book of magic."

 

"And he knows about it." Balinor looked at Lancelot who said. "During my first stay in Camelot, a Gryphon was attacking the castle. My spear pierced it. But Merlyn's magic killed it. This is a secret I will keep until I die. I would never betray Merlyn."

 

Balinor looked at the girl. "Very well. I will release the dragon for you."

 

Merlyn sighed with relief.

"Arthur won't wait for another week, you were surprisingly close to Ealdor."

 

"Ealdor? Do you live there?"

 

"I was born there." Merlyn confirmed. "My mother will be willing to offer us a bed for the night. Then, we can leave for Camelot together."

 

"What's your mother's name?" Balinor asked, looking curious.

 

As if he had been to Ealdor before.

 

"Hunith. My mother's name is Hunith." Merlyn answered, before noting the way Balinor deflated.

 

"She got married." You nod awkwardly. "It doesn't surprise me."

 

"My mother was not married to my father." Merlyn denied. "And she's not now."

 

Balinor looked up, amazed and shocked.

"I had no idea she was pregnant."

 

"Who?" Merlyn asked, confused.

 

"I was in Ealdor fourteen years ago. Hunith hosted and protected me, but the arrival of the men of Camelot prevented me from marrying her as I wanted to do. As she deserved."

 

Merlyn blinked.

Then, incredulous, she asked. "Are you my father?"

 

Balinor smiled. "It looks like I am."

 

Lancelot looked confused at the girl. "Can Merlyn control dragons?"

 

"After my death, yes she will be able to. That's how it works for dragonlords." Balinor smiled, before speaking. "Will I go back to Ealdor with you?"

 

"We have time before I have to return to Camelot. You would have time to talk to my mother." Merlyn said, not wanting to mention her suspicions about her mother's affair with Matthew.

 

"I'd love to."

***

Seeing Ealdor's profile made Merlyn realize that, for the first time in her life, she would be seeing her parents together.

 

"Merlyn, are you okay?"

 

The girl smiled at Lancelot, sighing and asking. "Will you come with me to Camelot? You've never been banished. You can come back anytime you wish."

 

"I won't be back this time. But, in the future, I will definitely be back. We'll see each other again, Merlyn."

 

"I know. It just hurts me to think we won't always see each other."

 

Lancelot shook her, before saying. "Are you fourteen, Merlyn?"

 

"Yes. Although I don't understand why my age is so important. Arthur has become impossible since he discovered my age."

 

Lancelot laughed. "I'm very sorry for you. But honestly, I'm very impressed. You sure are very brave."

 

Merlyn blushed.

 

Lancelot laughed. "I'll miss you, anyway. I've missed you."

 

"I guess not as much as you missed Gwen." The girl laughed and Lancelot snorted. "Gwen helped me because you pushed her to."

 

"She would have done it herself too. And, above all, she was very enchanted by you, mister knight."

 

"You weren't?" Lancelot laughed and Merlyn cocked his head. "Very heroic to save my life, but you could have been a little better about it."

 

"Oh, my apologies. Maybe next time I'll be the one to save and you'll save me."

 

"I'd make a fine knight in shining armor."

 

Lancelot snorted.

****

The journey back to Camelot had been awkward enough.

 

Balinor clearly had no desire to return to the place where he had been betrayed, and Merlyn could see that he was far more uncomfortable than he had been at Ealdor.

 

Her mother had been someone he had known, while Merlyn could not say the same about herself.

 

"How much longer?" Balinor asked, after hours of walking in silence.

 

"A few hours. We should arrive when everyone is asleep. I don't know how long it will take us to get from Kilgharrah, but I don't want them to see the dragon escape."

 

"The caves where he is confined reach even very far from Camelot. We will only go to safety."

 

"Where will you go?" Merlyn asked.

 

"Far from Camelot. I assumed that Essetir was quite far, but clearly I was wrong. How did you find me?"

 

"The druids did it, not me." Merlyn admitted, before saying. "I asked them to look for the dragonlord who had escaped from Camelot. And they were able to find you."

The girl stroked the hawk on her shoulder. "Their falcon found me and guided me to where your refuge was."

 

Balinor nodded. "I'm surprised the druids were so close to Camelot."

 

"Arthur and Morgana helped save a young druid, Mordred, from death. Iseldir was still there, and I took the opportunity to get information."

 

Balinor nodded.

 

"Where will you go, then?"

Merlyn finally realized that her father wasn't going to tell her.

 

He didn't want her to know.

 

"Merlyn..."

 

"It doesn't matter. We'll have to be careful when we enter. The guards are rather useless, but I don't want to risk Gaius or Uther recognizing you."

 

Balinor accepted the girl's answer.

***

"Kilgharrah!" Merlyn screamed in the cave.

 

The dragon appeared, settling down on her ledge before her.

"Little sorceress, you're back. What threatens the prince this time?"

 

"Nothing. As far as I know, at least. " Merlyn looked at the dragon. "I wanted to thank you for your help. You've done a lot for me."

 

"And how do you plan to thank me for my help?"

 

Balinor appeared and Kilgarrah bowed his head to the dragonlord. "My old friend."

 

"Kilgharrah, I am extremely sorry."

 

"You allowed me to reconcile with my friend. Thank you."

 

Merlyn snorted at the dragon. "That's not what I wanted to do."

Kilgarrah looked at her questioningly.

 

"Balinor is here only to command you not to harm any citizen of Camelot in your vengeance. I am here to break these chains."

 

Kilgarrah looked at the witch in amazement.

 

"You are a creature of sky and fire, Kilgharrah. Uther has no right to hold you back."

 

Kilgarrah inclined his head towards her.

 

After being commanded by Balinor to respect life in Camelot and harm none of them seeking vengeance, Merlyn summoned her magic and broke her chains.

 

Her eyes shone with gold and the light that emanated from her hands was the sun.

 

"Thanks, Merlyn. I'll never forget it."

 

Then, Balinor mounted the dragon and the two flew off.

 

Merlyn swallowed, her breath trembling.

 

Balinor could at least say goodbye to her before leaving.

 

Notes:

Hawk at the window
Merlyn, looking at it: What the hell?

She opened the letter.
Merlyn: Oh, it's Iseldir. I like this hawk, it's going to be mine.

***

Iseldir: We found Balinor.
Merlyn: So, I spent weeks locked in the library trying to know where he went, and you found him in two days???
Iseldir: Yes.
Merlyn: Okay.

***

Merlyn: *doesn't talk*
Arthur: What did I do?
Merlyn: Nothing.
Arthur: Did I do something wrong? Was I too rude? Was I a dollophead?
Merlyn: Arthur....
Arthur: Talk to me!
Merlyn: Wow, I give you anxiety!

***

Merlyn: I want to go to Ealdor.
Arthur: *panik attack*
Merlyn: For the Harvest, not for good.
Arthur: Oh, thank gods.
Merlyn: I definetily give you anxiety.

***

Merlyn: Lancelot!
Lancelot: Merlyn!
Hunith: Now, I have to go to see Matthew
Merlyn: My mum has a relationship?!?!?!
Lancelot: It could be worse

*A few moments later*

Merlyn: My dad is going to meet my mum when she has a relationship for the very first time.
Lancelot: Okay, now this is worse.

***

Merlyn: Where are you going?
Balinor: Oh, look, shiny!
Balinor: *dissapears*
Merlyn: Well, this is very rude.

Chapter 6: Chapter 6

Summary:

Questing Beast and Nimueh

Merlyn should have stayed in Ealdor.

 

There no one would have forced her to participate in the hunt. There no one would have sent a magical monster to terrorize the kingdom.

 

She should have stayed with Lancelot and Will, no longer thinking about Camelot and Arthur Pendragon. 

 

Instead, at that moment, she was listening to Gaius' explanation about the beast that had attacked them.

"The creature you describe has all the characteristics of the Questing Beast."

 

“It's obviously a legend.” Arthur disputed, but Gaius continued his explanation. "According to the Ancient Texts, the arrival of the Questing Beast heralds a period of great upheaval."

 

Uther interrupted, his tone warning. "Gaius, that's just an old tale."

 

The king was hiding something about that beast, as was her mentor, Merlyn recognised, then listening to Arthur speak. "Look, whatever it is, it's causing panic. People are worried it might enter the city."

 

"Then we have to kill her." Uther announced, and Merlyn thought she could tell that he was referring to the Beast and not to the people. "Arthur, gather the knights. You will ride out at dawn." The king said, speaking to his son.

 

Arthur locked eyes with his servant, who nodded and followed him as soon as he exited the throne room, as was her duty to do.

 

Then, she listened to Arthur give orders to the knights, before turning to her. "Arrange all weapons that may be useful against that beast, Merlyn. Arrange my armor and see to it that all soldiers are ready for any further attack."

 

Merlyn nodded, then said. "Do you think Gaius might be right?"

 

"I don't care, whether it is a harbinger of dark times or not. If we don't stop it, it will surely bring death to my people, and that is something I will not allow."

 

Merlyn nodded, starting to walk away and pass the directions on to the squires.

 

"Merlyn."

 

The servant turned and Arthur said. "You're coming with us too, so hurry."

 

"Of course, sire."

 

***

 

Merlyn was checking to see if the sword was shiny enough when Gaius spoke to her. "This isn't just any beast, Merlyn."

 

"Do not worry." The girl smiled at him, but the elderly doctor said, "No, listen to me. You don't understand."

 

The girl looked at her mentor, and he continued, holding a book in his hands. "Uther may not respect the Old Religion, but it is very real. To face such a Beast, you must understand where it comes from."

 

"What do you mean?"

 

"At the very heart of the Old Religion lies the magic of life and death itself. The Questing Beast has this power. One bite and you are dead. And there is no cure."

 

Merlyn swallowed. "I won't let it bite Arthur."

 

Gaius looked at her, frightened. "Don't get bitten either, my girl." Sighing, the physician continued. "I have to make up for my behavior towards you about the unicorn issue, again."

 

"Well, I'll be careful." Merlyn smiled, giving the physician's hand a squeeze as it still pointed to the drawing of the beast. "I can assure you of that."

 

"I know, Merlyn. I know."

 

***

 

Standing next to Arthur, Merlyn listened to him give directions to his soldiers.

 

"You have seen the enemy we face. It is a creature of nightmares. But you are the best knights in the realm. We can and will kill it, before it harms another inhabitant of our kingdom."

 

Merlyn felt a pang at the fate of Bedivere, who had saved her life.

 

Arthur drew his own sword, raising it in front of him and proclaiming. "For the love of Camelot."

 

The men in front of him did the exact same action, making Merlyn mentally roll her eyes.

 

At that moment, Morgana came running down. "Arthur!"

 

"Morgana, what are you doing?" Arthur asked, putting the sword away and looking at the other, which had grabbed the prince by the forearms.

 

"You can't face it."

 

Arthur looked at his men, before saying. "Morgana, go back to bed. There is nothing to fear."

 

"I saw some terrible things. Please, don't go."

 

Arthur looked confused, and Merlyn whispered to him. "She must have had another dream, Arthur. She should go to see Gaius."

 

Arthur nodded, but Morgana shook her head. "No, I won't let you go."

 

Arthur nodded at Merlyn, telling her. “Bring her in, please.”

 

Merlyn took it gently, saying. "Nothing will happen to him, Morgana, I promise you."

 

***

 

"What happened?" Gaius asked as Arthur carried Merlyn, clearly injured.

 

Leon cleared the worktable and the prince laid the servant on the hardwood.

 

"She was bitten." Gaius gasped and Arthur shook his head. "She saved my life."

 

Morgana rushed in at that moment, taking the girl's hand. "No, Merlyn!"

 

Gwen walked over, tears in her eyes and looked at Merlyn devastated.

 

"There must be something you can do, Gaius?" Arthur asked, a haunted look at the servant.

 

"I wish there was, sire." Gaius looked at the girl, before saying. "The bite of the Questing Beast causes death, sire."

 

Leon turned pale. “Is there no cure for a bite?”

 

Gaius shook his head.

 

Arthur looked at him, furious. "Didn't you think to mention it, Gaius? Didn't you think it might be important for us to know?"

 

"Your father believes it is a thought, a fairy tale. He did not allow me to continue with the warnings, sire."

 

"And Merlyn? She would have certainly believed you!"

 

"I warned Merlyn, my lord." Gaius admitted, pursing his lips. "I told her about the risks."

 

"She pushed me away." Arthur murmured. He looked at Leon. "Prepare some men. I will go find a cure for her."

 

"Uther would never allow it." Morgana said, tears in her eyes.

 

Arthur remained silent.

 

Leon spoke, hesitantly. "Sire, if I may..."

Arthur looked at him and the knight continued. "What if we went exploring, looking for potential allies of the Beast? A small group, just two of us, maybe."

 

Arthur looked at Gaius. "How can she be saved?"

 

"Sire, unfortunately there is no cure. There isn’t any possible cure." Gaius proclaimed solemnly and Morgana asked. "What about magic? Could it save her?"

 

Gaius closed his eyes. "It could. But no sorcerer would save her."

 

"And why not? Merlyn is innocent!" Morgana exclaimed and Gaius sighed. "And a loyal servant to the Prince of Camelot. For magic there is no place here, and no wizard would waste his own life on anyone."

 

Arthur asked. "What if we wanted to try that route?"

 

"Ask a sorcerer for help?" Gaius asked, shaking his head. "Only the Priestesses of the Old Religion possess the power of life and death, sire."

 

"Where do I find them?" The prince asked and Gaius looked at him heavily. "Sire, to give a life, someone must die. It is the balance of magic. Would you condemn the life of an innocent to save Merlyn?"

 

Arthur looked at the servant, dying. "I want to hear what they have to suggest. Maybe there is another cure."

 

Gaius sighed. "Then all you have to do is go to the Isle of the Blessed, my lord. The High Priestesses live there."

 

Arthur and Leon looked at each other. "We will leave. Merlyn will come with us."

 

“Is this wise, sire?” Leon asked, looking at the servant.

 

"Maybe, seeing that she's only fourteen, some of them will show her mercy."

 

Gwen put a hand over her mouth and Morgana asked. "Fourteen?"

 

Arthur nodded. "Come on, Leon. I'll talk to my father."

 

***

 

Arthur hadn't admitted that bringing Merlyn with them was to reassure himself and know she was alive, at least for the moment.

 

"You did it again." The prince murmured, and Leon, who was returning from his wood-gathering tour, stopped at the edge of the woods, so as not to interrupt the moment the prince was having.

“I thought drinking poison was the worst thing you could do, but you decided to get bitten by a beast that would kill you!”

 

The prince's breathing was ragged.

 

“You always said that my being a prince makes me no better than anyone, yet you put my life on a pedestal.”

 

Leon could hear the pain in Arthur's voice.

 

After a moment of silence, Arthur concluded. "Come back to me, Merlyn. You're the person who made me better. I need you."

 

Arthur's voice broke and Leon made his way noisily into the clearing.

 

"We're not far away, sire. We should be there within the day."

 

Arthur nodded, and Leon didn't comment on the prince's red eyes.

 

Merlyn was more than a servant to him.

 

She was more than a servant for everyone.

 

 

***

 

“So, this is the Isle of the Blessed.” Arthur murmured. "It's not what I expected."

 

"Neither do I, sire." Leon admitted, looking around. "What is the name of the Priestess we are looking for?"

 

"Gaius didn't say that." Arthur replied.

 

"Gaius cannot mention the names of those he has betrayed."

 

A female voice made them turn.

 

Arthur gasped, recognizing the woman standing before them. "You."

 

“Me.” The woman smiled, a dark red dress on her body, making her look like some myth or legend. "My name is Nimueh, Arthur Pendragon."

 

She then looked at Merlyn.

 

"Did someone manage to kill your servant? I tried and failed. She is annoyingly persistent."

 

Nimueh bent down to touch the girl, before glaring at Arthur.

 

"Questing Beast."

 

"Yes. It was supposed to bite me, but Merlyn pushed me away."

 

"A loyal servant." Nimueh said, who looked at Merlyn with something akin to empathy or pity, before walking away.

 

"Help her, please!" Arthur exclaimed. "I can't promise you that you'll be free. I can't promise you anything. But she doesn't deserve to die for my family's sins."

 

"I would help her, believe me." Nimueh nodded. “Only what you ask for could come at a very large price.”

 

"Gaius spoke of a price. A balance."

 

"Magic would take a life to save Merlyn's."

 

Arthur stopped, looking at the servant in devastation.

 

"Your look, Arthur, is why I won't risk it again. I've done it before, with your father and mother."

 

"What do you mean?" Arthur asked and Nimueh looked at him. "Your mother was barren, Arthur. And Uther asked, a life for a life. I did not choose for Ygraine to die. But the magic took the life she wanted."

 

Arthur made a step back. “My father is the reason my mother died.”

 

Nimueh only looked at him.

 

"And, when he couldn't take his due responsibilities, he condemned all the innocent sorcerers." Arthur said, looking horrified.

 

Nimueh sighed, nodding. "He did. I can't risk it anymore, Arthur."

 

Leon intervened. “What if… what if the wound has other ways to be healed?”

 

Nimueh looked at Merlyn. "I can try to see. But I can't guarantee anything."

 

"I beg you." Arthur swallowed. "I can't lose her without at least trying to save her."

 

Nimueh pointed to a stone altar. "You will have to give me space, Arthur. I need silence to investigate this kind of magic."

 

“We will wait outside this temple.” Arthur promised.

 

***

 

Nimueh swallowed.

 

Emrys, the daughter of the triple goddess, was at her altar.

 

She reached out a hesitant hand.

 

The girl would wake up on her own, but Nimueh needed to talk to her.

 

Hoping to be forgiven for her attempt to kill her, Nimueh entered her thoughts.

 

~~

 

Merlyn felt strange.

 

She was in a village that reminded her of Ealdor, wearing a light blue dress, without shoes and with long, loose hair.

 

As she walked, she sometimes heard words reaching her.

 

"She was bitten."

"She saved my life."

"No, Merlyn!"

“Is there no cure for its bite?”

"Didn't you think to mention it, Gaius? Didn't you think it might be important for us to know?"

"Prepare some men. I will go find a cure for her."

"What about magic? Could it save her?"

"Then all you have to do is go to the Isle of the Blessed, my lord. The High Priestesses live there."

"Come back to me, Merlyn. You're the person who made me better. I need you."

"My father is the reason my mother died. And, when he couldn't take responsibility for her, he condemned all the innocent wizards."

"I can't lose her without at least trying to save her."

 

Merlyn was trying to figure out why she heard the voices of her friends and one of Arthur's knights, Sir Leon if she recalled correctly, when she heard a voice behind her.

 

"Merlyn."

 

She turned around. "Nimueh."

 

Nimueh smiled, sweetly, moving forward. "I apologize for trying to kill you, Merlyn. Now, I am here to offer you my protection, my help."

 

"The Druids have already offered similar aid." Merlyn said and Nimueh bowed her head. "I could protect them too. And teach you control over your magic. And not fear."

 

Merlyn looked at her. "How are you here?"

 

"Arthur Pendragon came here carrying your body bitten by the Questing Beast to ask for help. To heal you with magic."

 

"NO! Nimueh, last time didn't end well."

 

"The Druids told you about it." Nimueh recognized. "It wouldn't help you either. I pushed them away to justify a fake spell I was going to cast. You won't die."

 

"What?"

 

"You are immortal, Emrys. Your name means that you will not perish from any wound. Mortal or magical. Even Excalibur could not kill you."

 

" What ?"

 

"You are magic. And what I can do is teach you your duties, how to use your powers."

 

Merlyn nodded.

 

"I have spoken to Arthur. He knows of the conditions of his birth. Of Uther's request and his mother’s fate."

 

"Is he fine?" Merlyn asked and Nimueh shrugged. "I can't be sure, but it is your duty to guide him for the best, Merlyn. I had thought that Uther might be the Once and Future King. I was wrong."

 

"I am sorry." Merlyn told her.

 

Nimueh smiled, accepting her words. "I have to go and I'll tell your friends you'll be okay."

 

"Thank you." Merlyn told her, before remaining alone in her personal paradise.

 

Everything was so calm.

 

Everything was all so wrong .

 

***

 

Nimueh reached the position where Leon and Arthur had camped, outside the temple of the Old Religion.

 

They both looked up at her arrival.

 

"Merlyn will recover. No death was necessary for her life." She added, looking at Arthur.

 

The truth was that the daughter of the Triple Goddess could not have died for anything in the world.

Perhaps a sword forged from dragon breath could debilitate her.

But not for a long period of time.

 

"So how were you able to heal her?" Arthur asked, fear in his tone.

 

"I had to use a magic thread, we could say. I gave her one of my talents. The ability to see glimpses of the future in her dreams."

 

"She'll have magic." Leon flinched but Nimueh laughed, shaking her head. "Having the talent to see the future does not imply magical talent."

 

Arthur nodded. "Good. We won't tell this to my father." He said, looking at Leon. "He would see it as magic and Merlyn would pay the price for it."

 

Leon nodded.

 

At that moment, Merlyn emerged from the ruins of the Goddess' temple, smiling when she saw Arthur hovering.

 

"Hey, royal prat."

 

"Merlyn!"

 

Arthur hugged her, with Leon smiling not far behind him.

 

“You are not allowed to die to save my life.”

 

"I just wanted to avoid cleaning your hideous socks again, sire."

 

Leon laughed, and Arthur smiled.

 

Merlyn tilted her head at Nimueh, saying. "Thank you, Nimueh, for helping me."

"Thank you for the offer. I'll wait for you in Camelot?"

 

Nimueh smiled. "I could help you and I did. Magic doesn't have to be evil. And my feud is with Uther, not Arthur."

"I have my own ways of going unnoticed. Wait for my call."

 

Merlyn smiled, before looking towards the horses.

 

"There are three horses." She noted, before looking at the two knights and saying. “I was unconscious, how did I stay on a horse?”

 

"Arthur brought you." Leon replied and Merlyn smiled. "Thank you, Arthur."

 

***

 

As they rode, Merlyn was thinking.

 

They had defied Uther's law for her.

 

They had asked a witch for help in performing a spell for her.

 

That showed there was hope for Arthur and Albion, didn't it?

 

"Thank you." Merlyn said, suddenly. "For saving me from death."

 

"Don't even say it." Leon smiled at her.

 

Arthur nodded. "You are not allowed to die."

Notes:

Merlyn: Hey, I just got back from Ealdor!
Arthur: Let's go hunting!
Merlyn: I'm going back, bye!

***

Merlyn: Someone has to explain to me why all the sorcerers and magical creatures are attacking now! Why can't they give me a week off?
Gaius: You didn't do anything last week, you were in Ealdor.
Merlyn, who had looked for her father and made Kilgharrah escape: Ahahaha, so, here's a fun fact.

***

Gaius: You have two things to do: don't let it bite Arthur and don't let it bite you.
Merlyn: 50% is a good percentage, right?

***

Arthur: Use magic to save Merlyn.
Nimueh: No. I've seen it before and I really didn't like how it ended.
Arthur: Please?
Nimueh: Good. I don't need anything anyway, she's immortal.
Arthur: What?

***

Nimueh: I don't have to do anything, you are immortal.
Merlyn: What?
Nimueh: Nothing can kill you.
Merlyn: What?
Nimueh: I don't know if Excalibur can do that either. Maybe hurt yourself a little? But don't kill yourself.
Merlyn: I know I sound repetitive, but what?

***

Arthur: I don't care about Merlyn.
Also Arthur: I will leave to save Merlyn's life again.

Morgana: ...
Leon: ...
Gwen: ...
Gaius: ...
George: ...
All Camelot : ...
Uther: I also realized that you would die for each other, Arthur.

Chapter 7: Chapter 7

Summary:

Merlyn, Leon, Arthur and Iseldir

Notes:

Hi! I hope you'll like this one!

Back in Camelot, Merlyn could only be grateful to Arthur for deciding that the king didn’t need to be informed of her conditions.

 

That would scream magic, and that was something Merlyn would have liked to avoid, generally speaking.

 

The concern of Morgana, Gwen and Gaius had been almost pleasant, especially for the girl who had had no company except Will growing up and who had never known the warmth of a father.

 

Gaius had seemed really guilty, too, for ignoring Merlyn's concerns many times, and then demanding that the girl listen to his own.

 

"I'm sorry, Merlyn. And I must apologise to you."

 

Merlyn raised an eyebrow at the old physician, who snorted in amusement at the resemblance the young girl had to him.

 

"You were right. Hunith sent you here to learn control and appreciate who you are. Not to live in fear and have your worries dismissed as useless and of someone who hasn't seen enough of this world." Gaius nodded. "From now on, Merlyn, your concerns will be listened to, and, if they are far-fetched, we will look for evidence to support your claim, as I should have done from the beginning."

 

"Gaius, it's okay. I understand why you wanted to make me afraid. I've seen how Uther is when it comes to magic. He knows no reason." Merlyn sighed deeply. "Arthur told me that magic killed his mother, Gaius, and I understand Uther's pain. That doesn't mean I'll let the people I care about die just because he's paranoid about anything remotely resembling magic." Merlyn waited for Gaius to understand that reason before she said. "Besides, Gaius, I admit that I took your warnings lightly when I first came here. I didn't think Uther would kill innocents, guilty only for being born with magic, just as his son was born a prince. But now I know, and I certainly won't start doing magic in front of everyone."

 

Gaius smiled. “Then I don't need to insist on the fear.”

 

Merlyn smiled back, before saying. "Arthur called me early, he says his father will be busy all day and he has some things he needs to tell me."

 

Gaius looked worried. "About what?"

 

Standing up, the girl shrugged. "If I had to guess, I'd say something about not dying for him and threatening to leave me in Camelot next time he’ll have to leave the Castle."

 

"And you think he would do it?" Gaius was worried. "I'm not exactly happy about your near death either, again in less than a year, but Arthur wouldn't last a trip out of the castle without you."

 

“That's what I told the royal ass, but, anyway, I'd still follow him and then join them.” Merlyn shrugged. “It's not like there would be anything he could do if I am already there.”

 

Merlyn then smiled at her mentor and walked out of the room.

 

The apology had been nice too, if Merlyn was being honest.

 

In Ealdor, both Will and her mother held her ideas and opinions in high regard.

 

Arriving in Camelot had upset all her realities, but the only thing she really missed was being able to express her ideas and be listened to by the person she cared about.

 

That Gaius had seen the error of his ways and decided to fix it made Merlyn very happy.

 

As she walked towards Arthur's chambers, Merlyn was joined by Leon.

 

"Sir Leon." The girl bowed her head towards the knight who smiled awkwardly.

 

"Merlyn, I... I wanted to tell you that I'm happy you're alive."

 

"Thank you, Sir Leon. I am also very glad." Merlyn laughed, before saying. "Though I have to say I'm surprised that you actually left with Arthur, Sir Leon. Honestly, I didn't think you even liked me that much. If you were even aware of my existence."

 

Leon looked guilty. "Of course I know of your existence, Merlyn. I have been Arthur's friend, or rather, close to him, for a long time. I taught him to fight, although he has now far surpassed me in skill and stamina."

Merlyn filed that information away for later, to tease Arthur somehow, and she stayed to listen to Leon as he finished.

"As soon as Arthur met you, he complained to me about the beautiful girl who didn't fall at his feet."

 

Merlyn's eyes widened. "Did he call me ‘beautiful girl’?"

 

Leon nodded, laughing. "He said you looked a lot like Morgana, but after a moment where he feared you were her, he realised you were much sweeter."

 

Merlyn smiled, definitely ready to use that information to tease Arthur.

 

Leon chuckled, guessing what that smile meant for the prince, before turning serious again and saying. "Even without Arthur and his complaints, you could hardly go unnoticed. You saved Arthur's life from the vengeful witch on your third day in Camelot, becoming his personal servant. And you stayed for more than a week. Even the king was surprised." Leon nodded. "All the other servants begged for a change of assignment after less than three days. But you didn't, despite his less than correct attitude even before that moment."

 

Merlyn smiled at him, then she said. "Arthur is a softie, once you really get to know him. He just has a lot of pressure on him and has few friends, people who appreciate him simply for being Arthur , rather than the prince of Camelot."

 

Leon smiled. “But you do.”

 

"Not just me." Merlyn said, not wanting to offend the others. "Morgana and Gwen both care about Arthur. And so do you, I suppose. Or you wouldn't have supported him by going against the king's orders."

 

Leon smiled, then said. "I'm sorry I didn't talk to you sooner, Merlyn. Honestly, I wish I had, but as a knight I don't have the same privileges as Arthur. Besides, I wouldn't even have the excuse of having you as my servant, which is the only reason Arthur is free to talk to you as much as he does."

 

Merlyn blushed, before saying. "If you ever want to talk to me again, I certainly wouldn't kick you out, Leon. Hardly, in fact. You should feel free to come to me whenever you want. Maybe, if you're worried about what others might think, you can come after practice and use that excuse."

 

Leon laughed, stopping when they reached Arthur's door.

 

Before Merlyn could enter, Leon leaned down and gave her a light kiss on her cheek, a sign of affection.

 

"I'm glad you came to Camelot, Merlyn. I almost feel like I've found a sister."

 

Merlyn smiled as the knight walked away, before walking into Arthur's chambers with a smile.

 

The prince looked up from his papers.

 

"You should knock before entering. Also, wait for my permission to enter, before doing so at all."

 

“It seems like a made up rule.” Merlyn shrugged. "Did you just make that up, by any chance?"

 

Arthur snorted, before gesturing to the chair in front of him.

 

Merlyn sat down, anxious.

 

"Nimueh had a price when she saved your life." Arthur said. "Fight magic with magic. She eliminated the beast's magic by giving you some of her."

 

Merlyn's mouth dropped open. "I.. What ?"

 

This lie would prevent her from explaining to Arthur that she was born with magic, that she hadn't chosen.

 

Plus, it put her in danger, especially if Uther ever found out.

 

"It has given you the talent of a seer." Arthur explained. "No magic, just the partial ability to see the future when it presents itself. I won't tell my father, Merlyn, especially not when this whole war is based on a lie."

 

"A lie?" Merlyn could feel her heart beating fast. "In what sense, sire?"

 

Arthur looked at her thoughtfully. "Leon is the only other person who knows about this, Merlyn. I expect discretion in this matter. At least until I figure out the best way to deal with it."

 

Merlyn nodded, quickly.

 

"I should not have been born. My mother was barren. Nimueh was called by my father to give my mother the ability to conceive, and at my birth, the life required was my mother’s one. And my father, although it was his fault, declared war on innocents, who now rightly seek revenge."

 

Merlyn became agitated.

 

Arthur looked at her, his eyes narrowed. "You don't seem surprised. Why?"

 

Merlyn hesitated, then she muttered. "My answer may be treason, sire."

 

"Speak. I won't judge you, you have my word."

 

"I... I found out that my father had run away from Camelot, Arthur. After you were born. I... I thought the druids might know who he was."

 

"And? They did?"

 

"The Druids said the king had a hard time accepting the price of the magic. I just thought it might be related to your mother's death. I thought of a physician, rather than anything like that."

 

Arthur nodded. "Why didn't you tell me about it?"

 

"I would also have to explain who I got the information from, an information that wasn't even very clear, and why I was with them."

 

"Did your father have magic?" Arthur asked.

 

Merlyn shrugged. "Not that I know of. I know he had an affinity with animals, especially reptiles, but other than that, I don't know if he had any magic. It was probably enough to be kicked out of Ealdor too.”

 

"Did you meet him?" Arthur looked hurt while he asked that. Merlyn really hoped he didn’t blame himself for Merlyn’s father’s fate.

 

Merlyn shook her head. "He has gone to other kingdoms, as far away from here as possible. Even if I wanted to look for him, I don't even know where to go."

 

Arthur nodded. "I'm sorry. Growing up without a father must have been difficult. Especially considering the context in which you grew up."

 

“I had mom, and then Will and his dad played the protective role we needed.”

 

Arthur smiled. “And I'm very grateful for that.”

 

After a few moments of silence, Merlyn asked. "Sire, what do you intend to do now?"

 

“I need to get more information.” Arthur looked at her. "You mentioned druids."

 

"Yes, I did."

 

"I would like to talk to them. Take me to where they are camping."

 

Merlyn nodded. "We'll have to go at night, sire. And, well, you should promise not to hurt them. They don't deserve to live in fear. Druids are a peaceful people, sire. They will never seek revenge, but they have buried too many of their own to bear any more pain."

 

"I will not do that." Arthur said. “And I won't even comment on your ability to sneak out and into the castle.”

 

"Oops."

 

****

 

Arthur was following her silently. Merlyn was wondering how she would warn the druids of their arrival when Iseldir appeared on the road, the fog clearing around him.

 

"Arthur Pendragon." Iseldir bowed his head in greeting to the prince, before greeting Merlyn as well. I see you have brought your king here, Merlyn.

 

Nimueh told him about his mother, Iseldir. Merlyn answered him, he wanted answers.

 

"I remember you." Arthur nodded. "You are the druid to whom I entrusted the child, Mordred. How is he?"

 

"Mordred is well, Arthur Pendragon," Iseldir replied. "He has found a family and care here. He is learning to cope with the pain."

 

"I'm happy to hear this." Arthur swallowed. "I... I was at the Isle of the Blessed, where I discovered that... it might be that..." Arthur took a deep breath. "Do you by any chance know how this Purge began? Why did my father begin his war against magic?"

 

"You already know." Iseldir smiled sadly, and Arthur shook his head. "He would never ask magic for help! My father never used it! He said he saved these lands from magic!"

 

"Your servant's father was a loyal subject and friend of his, Arthur Pendragon," Iseldir said, making Merlyn gasp. What was Iseldir doing? "And, Uther, hunted him like an animal."

 

"He had magic?" Arthur asked, giving Merlyn a look that the girl couldn't quite understand.

 

"Not much, but enough to save your father's life with it." Iseldir replied.

 

Arthur took a deep breath. “I don't want to be given any riddles, just a clear answer.” Merlyn snorted. Good luck getting one, she thought amusedly. Druids and dragons had in common that they spoke without saying anything sensible and made you reach the conclusion they wanted on your own. “My father asked Nimueh to use magic to make my mother fertile, and then my mother died from the price the magic of life and death demanded?”

 

Iseldir nodded, without speaking, his eyes focused on the prince's face.

 

“Did my father know about this price?” Arthur asked.

 

Iseldir nodded. "Nimueh explained it to him thoroughly and with extreme precision. But what is a king without an heir?"

 

“And what is a king without honor?” Arthur retorted.

 

Iseldir smiled. "We've been asking ourselves this for many years."

 

"Okay." Arthur took a deep breath. "All the magic I've known has done nothing but try to hurt the people I love. But… I recognize that not all magic is evil. Or Merlyn would be dead by now."

 

Merlyn grimaced. Technically, Arthur wasn't telling a falsehood. Without magic, Merlyn would truly be dead.

 

"When I am king," Arthur promised. "The punishment will be linked to the crime. You will not have to fear to live. But you will not abuse the power that has been granted to you."

 

Iseldir tilted his head. "As your faithful servant, I will be honored to be part of your future kingdom, Arthur Pendragon."

Notes:

Uther: Were you dying?
Merlyn: Not this week, why?
Uther: It's been a while...
Merlyn: I was thinking the same thing, you know?

***

Merlyn: I am surprised you even know who I am.
Leon: You attacked Arthur.
Merlyn: He deserved that.
Leon: And then you faced him in a mace fight
Merlyn: I have fought worse
Leon: You saved his life.
Merlyn: I am doing it everyday, without getting any recognition
Leon: And then you stayed as his servant
Merlyn: I must have hit my head very hard on something.
Leon: How could I not know who you are?
Merlyn: And then why you never talked to me?
Leon: Cause I don't have any excuses!
Merlyn: Pretend to be sick and come to Gaius! I am there!
Leon: That is... a very good excuse.
Merlyn: I know, I am a genius.

***

Leon: And I trained Arthur, so I saw all the embarassing things he did.
Merlyn: I might use this to mock him
Leon: And he called you beautiful girl.
Merlyn: I am definetily using this to mock him

***

Arthur: You need to keep this secret.
Merlyn: I won't tell a soul.
Arthur: Can you even keep a secret?
Merlyn, who is hiding her magic till her birth: I am kinda good.
Arthur: My mom was barren and Uther asked Nimueh for help.
Merlyn, who already knew: That's a shocker.

***

Arthur: Why didn't you tell me?
Merlyn: Because it's treason?
Arthur: And?
Merlyn: And you are the Prince!
Arthur: You can't use my father as an excuse for not telling me things!
Merlyn: Watch me

***

Arthur: You'll take me to the Druids
Merlyn: *Explains how to go out Camelot without being noticed*
Arthur: How many jail breaks you made?
Merlyn: You don't want to know.

***

Arthur: My father would never use magic!
Merlyn: ...
Iseldir: ...
Kilgharrah: ...
Druids: ...
Nimueh: ....
All Camelot: ...

***

Arthur: When I'll be king, you won't leave in fear anymore.
Iseldir: That's a good news
Arthur: What are you doing?
Merlyn: Probably counting the days that your father has left to live.
Arthur: Merlyn!
Merlyn: What?

Chapter 8: Chapter 8

Summary:

They found the tomb of Cornelius Sigan, part 1 (because one chapter wasn't enough for this)

Notes:

Hi! Long time no see!

I hope you'll enjoy this!

Arthur and Merlyn were returning to the Castle.

Merlyn continued to cast worried glances at the prince, knowing that finding out the truth about his father couldn't have been easy.

"Merlin?"

"Yes, Arthur?" Merlyn replied, looking softly at the prince.

"I know that... I made you suffer and that my family did some serious wrongs to yours, but..."

"What are you even talking about?" Merlyn asked, blinking in confusion.

"There's no use denying it." Arthur took a deep breath. "The reason you never knew your father was because mine couldn't let him live in peace, away from Camelot and with the woman he loved. I'm sorry, Merlyn."

"Hey, look at me." Merlyn stopped in front of Arthur, before saying. "It's not your fault. You're not to blame for what your father did. You're not to blame for the decision my father made. My mother never told him she was pregnant, and so they never decided to take a different path, Arthur," Merlyn added, once she realised the prince didn't believe her. "It's not your fault. Y ou didn’t order to hunt down my father. Y ou didn’t decide that my father would leave me and my mother behind and you didn’t decide not to confess the pregnancy to my father."

"You don't blame me?" Arthur asked, his eyes scanning Merlyn. " Really don't you blame me? My father It's the reason you never met your father."

Merlyn swallowed as he said. "And he’s the reason why you never met your mother ."

Arthur flinched, but he knew Merlyn was telling the truth.

" Thank you. " The prince whispered.

Merlyn simply smiled. "Let's go. The guards are changing soon and it will be easy to sneak in from the dungeons."

"We have to really address the issue of your ability to sneak in and out of the castle."

Merlyn snorted. Arthur would have forgotten about it after a night's sleep and a morning of princely duties.

 

***

 

Uther must be plotting against them, Merlyn snorted, when she heard Arthur's scream.

"Are you deaf?" Arthur asked her, getting up from the bed, not caring that he was half naked in front of Merlyn.

For being so focused on the cohort label, Arthur seemed to rather forget his good manners when it came to Merlyn. The servant had not yet understood whether he appreciated the intimacy or whether it just meant that the prince did not see her as a girl, but only as a servant.

The girl grimaced. Arthur was referring to the incessant hammering that the mining or blacksmith servants were doing in the dungeons, by order of Uther, searching for hidden secrets of Camelot.

At this rate, Uther would only meet his death at the hands of one of his servants or his children.

"I wish." Merlyn grimaced.

“I want you to go downstairs and tell them to stop.” Arthur ordered, yawning in the process.

"But they work under the orders of the king !" Merlyn protested. Even if the girl had told them to stop, the king would only have contested the order and punished Merlyn with the stocks or the dungeon, depending on the treasure his men had already found.

"And you answer mine ." Arthur nodded, before returning to bed.

Resigned to having a master extremely stupid , Merlyn gritted her teeth and went down the stairs, then towards the dungeons.

She blinked when she saw the hasty escape the men made from the dungeon, before hearing something in her mind.

Something was calling her. Some whispers came from the grave, whispers of women, children, and even men.

Merlyn approached, her gaze falling first on the precious phosphorescent blue stone, a light that radiated throughout the room, illuminating it even without the need to use the torch that the servant had brought with her. Then, her eyes fell on the figure kneeling before the tomb of the king of the past.

Accustomed from her lessons with Gaius, to observing with her own eyes the causes of patients' deaths, Merlyn reached out a hand, trembling slightly both from the cold of the room and from the voices that increased in intensity, and touched the man's shoulder .

Immediately, he fell backwards, a dead weight, revealing the man's distorted face, with his wide eyes, sunken cheeks, and the blackness of gangrene spreading across his face.

Merlyn gasped. This was not a death due to a natural cause. Without hesitation, Merlyn turned and began walking quickly towards the court physician's tower.

"Ah, Merlyn, I see that Arthur finally..."

The girl interrupted her mentor. "Gaius, I think Uther just released another vengeful spirit into the castle."

" Another ?" Gaius asked, cocking his eyebrow at Merlyn, who shifted nervously. "Okay, maybe the other times weren't properly his fault, but I tell you Camelot is the place where I saw more magic of all. So… you know… Uther’s fault."

" Merlyn ." Gaius said her name with a sigh, before asking. "What made you run all the way here?"

"Right." Merlyn nodded, taking his mind away from Uther's faults as king and towards the reason for his frantic running. "I found a dead body in the grave they dug up."

"Yes, it's not unusual to find a dead body in a grave”. Gaius nodded.

"I know." Merlyn snorted. "But the dead body I speak of was one of the men who were exploring the grave."

"I understand." Gaius nodded, picking up his bag to analyse the corpses. Yes, her mentor had different bags for different tasks. Merlyn was scared by the number of bags the man had. She hoped none of them were to kill someone. “Take me to this corpse.”

 

***

As Merlyn offered the appropriate rites to the poor man, she asked. “What do you think killed him?”

Gaius, however, was observing the raven statues with a cautious gaze.

"I do not know." He replied absentmindedly.

Merlyn asked again. "Do you know who this grave belongs to?" Her gaze fell on the glowing stone instead of the heart of the stone tomb.

"It's still uncertain." Gaius murmured.

Merlyn frowned, sensing something strange about her mentor. "Do you think it’s cursed?"

Gaius gave her an unimpressed look, and Merlyn snorted. “He died in less than ten seconds and he is already decaying. And we are in Camelot !" Why was she the only one who understood the amount of magic there was in Camelot? Was everyone else immune or blind?

"Perhaps." Gaius muttered, walking forward and passing over a trap hidden in the stones of the floor.

A golden flash, and a plate stopped the arrow.

Gaius looked at Merlyn in amazement. “You just saved my life.”

"Yes, well, you're welcome." Merlyn replied, blushing at her mentor's gratitude.

Uther's footsteps and voice made Merlyn jump, the plate clattering to the floor and making Arthur sigh in resignation.

"To which of my ancestors do I owe this fortune, Gaius?" Uther asked, looking around with an eager and joyful gaze.

Merlyn snorted, wondering why a rich man would make his whole kingdom suffer to have more gold.

Her gaze fell on a leather journal, which, after making a note not to be observed, she slipped into her shirt.

Arthur turned to look at her, raising an eyebrow when he saw her blush.

Merlyn looked away. At least, she supposed, he hadn't seen her steal anything. That would have been horrible.

Uther was getting close to touching the stone, making Merlyn shake her head, but, fortunately, the king saw the dead workman. "How did he die?" He asked, suddenly looking cautious.

"He triggered one of the traps, unintentionally." Gaius said, pointing to the floor and looking at a ring with a thoughtful look.

“To deter grave robbers?” Arthur asked, suddenly noticing the body on the ground.

Merlyn wondered how those two could be their rulers. Morgana would have noticed a damn corpse on the ground. She wouldn't have missed it.

Maybe she should have asked the dragon, before letting him go, if he was sure it was Arthur the hope for Albion.

Morgana would have been much better, that's all.

"With good reason, there's enough here to tempt anyone!" Uther exclaimed.

Yes, Merlyn sighed, grave robbers and greedy rulers.

"Arthur, it is your responsibility to protect this tomb!" Uther decreed, and Arthur nodded. "Yes father."

Then, the prince left the tomb and Merlyn followed him. "Do you need my assistance, Arthur?"

"No, why?" Arthur asked.

"I wanted to go and announce his death to Vincent's family." Merlyn murmured, thinking of the servant who had died. It had taken her a while to recognize her friend's face, but now she couldn't get it out of her mind.

"Certain." Arthur nodded. "Tell them that I will see to it that they have what they need. And that they can excuse themselves from their work until they feel better."

"You are very kind, sire." Merlyn bowed her head. "I will ensure that the steward is informed of this. Will they be paid in the meantime?"

"Accommodation and food." Arthur nodded. "It seems like the least we can do for them."

Merlyn smiled as she watched Arthur walk away.

She kept thinking that Morgana would have done a better job as once and future queen.

 

***

 

After reporting the prince's words to the steward and Vincent's family, Merlyn had taken time to allow the family to remember the man.

She had checked to see if Gaius needed her assistance, but the man was nowhere to be found. Then, she sat on her bed and finally took the battered diary stolen from the grave.

These are my memories.

I have served my king faithfully, for years, and never once has he shown any sign of my loyalty.

Never once did he recognize my worth.

Never once did he thank me for my service.

I was cast aside, the exact moment he no longer needed me.

This is for anyone who feels like me.

Merlyn gasped. That hit a little too close to home. She knew that Arthur cared for her, but the prince only showed that affection when he was about to lose her. Not always.

She swallowed, before turning the book over and realising there was a signature. Cornelius Sigan .

When she turned the book over, the words had changed shape.

Síd na n-íarnála. 

D'éirigh mé ar son m'ardrí ar feadh blianta, agus níor léirigh sé aithne orm riamh. 

Níor admhaigh sé mo luach riamh. 

Níor ghabh sé buíochas dom as mo sheirbhís.

Fuair mé mo leithscéal, nuair nach raibh uaidh níos mó mé.

 

Blinking, Merlyn was able to read the writing again, once again written in the language spoken in Camelot.

“This is… This language is…” Merlyn bit his lower lip. This seemed like a problem to bring to the druids.

Or maybe....

Merlyn glanced at the door, trying to figure out where Gaius had gone and when he would be back.

She decided that taking that risk would be fine.

She took a basin and conjured up some water.

Then, she focused on the witch who had promised to educate her.

"Hello, Nimueh."

Merlyn definitely didn't chuckle when she saw the Priestess gasp and turn around in shock.

"Merlyn. I'm surprised you were able to master communicating through water so soon." Nimueh recovered from her fright quite easily. "To what do I owe the pleasure?"

Merlyn showed her the diary he found, saying. "Uther ordered the foundations to be dug, and we found this room full of riches. I found this journal and took it, as an arrow killed Vincent in less than a minute."

Nimueh blinked, before mumbling something and letting her eyes glow gold. At Merlyn's questioning look, the Priestess laughed. "You see, communication through water works like a mirror. I could see the writing reflected. Let's see..." The woman stopped laughing, suddenly looking very scared. "Where did you find t his ?"

"In the grave." Merlyn repeated, blinking in surprise at the reaction Nimueh had shown. "Why?"

"This is the language spoken in the beginning. The Language of the Old Religion." Nimueh murmured. "Did you manage to read it?" She asked then, sounding reverent.

"I realised later that it wasn't written in the common language of Camelot." Merlyn admitted.

" Truly the daughter of the Goddess ." Nimueh looked shocked, bowing her head forward for a moment, before continuing to speak. "I'd say you've found the journal of a powerful sorcerer. Do these notes have a signature by any chance?"

"Cornelius Sigan."

Nimueh was silent for a moment, before speaking. " Cornelius Sigan . He was the most powerful sorcerer who ever lived."

"Really?" Merlyn asked, worried. Having opened a cursed tomb was dangerous, having freed a spirit left in a cursed tomb even more so.

But free the spirit of the most powerful sorcerer that ever existed from a cursed grave seemed decidedly too dangerous.

"It’s almost obvious that you didn't grow up in Camelot." Nimueh smiled. "and that you were not educated in the ways of the Old Religion by us Priestesses. You would fear him in the first case, and admire him in the second one."

“He just seems… familiar , somehow.” Merlyn murmured. "What happened to him? If he was such a powerful sorcerer, why does his tomb lie in Camelot?"

"Do not forget that once upon a time, before Uther's madness, magic was permitted and welcomed in Camelot." Nimueh reminded her, sounding slightly scolding. "Sigan was able to change day into night, control the tides, and her magic built the castle itself." The priestess continued on, the surface of the water breaking as the woman was seized by her own passion.

"And then what happened?" Merlyn asked, strangely hesitant to ask.

“Then what happens every time that a powerful sorcerer allies himself with a Pendragon." Nimueh spat, anger strong in her voice. "The king decreed that he was too powerful and ordered his execution."

Merlyn gasped. " Put aside ." She whispered. "He... wrote this diary after his friend had ordered his execution?" The girl felt nauseated. Then, a part of her, the scared part, wondered if Arthur would order her own execution.

"I assume so." Nimueh said, sounding thoughtful. "There are spells to transmute memories and memories into writing. It is likely that Sigan made use of them."

"Is he a danger to Camelot?" Merlyn asked, focusing on the matter. "I don't particularly care if Uther dies, not now that Arthur knows the truth behind his birth and the Purge. I'm sure he'll make the right choice. But only if Uther dies. I can't let Sigan destroy all the citizens. They're innocent , they're good people."

"I can't be sure of that." Nimueh murmured. "Sigan was a very powerful sorcerer, and he swore, on his deathbed, that he would return and take his revenge."

"There was a blue stone." Merlyn murmured. “It was a very bright stone.” 

Nimueh looked thoughtful. “I have my own ways of getting into the castle.” Announcement. “See you there. Make sure that nobody takes possession of the stone. It’s crucial that it stays safe. We'll see if we can get it to safety somehow."

 

 

***

 

Merlyn couldn't believe what he was hearing. " It's not appropriate ?"

Arthur snorted. "Look, Merlyn, Cedric saved my life during the hunt. He deserves an award."

"And you gave him my job ?" Merlyn hissed. 

"Yes." Arthur nodded. “He saved my life and he was extremely respectful…”

"You got yourself a sycophant ." Merlyn concluded. "Forgetting that I saved your life too ? From the witch who wanted to avenge her son, telling you the truth about Valiant and his shield, finding a way to stop the plague that was brought to Camelot by the creature of mud and water, drinking poison for you, preventing Sophia and her father to kill you in a strange ritual, helping you with the boy and putting myself in danger in the meantime, I helped with the unicorn and got bitten by a beast that killed for you ! But a toady comes along and you want him ?"

Arthur opened his mouth to protest, but Merlyn stopped him dead in his tracks. "Good. As you prefer, your Majesty. "

Merlyn bowed, before turning and walking. He would have informed the steward of the situation and then he would have had more time to prevent a damned dead sorcerer from killing everyone.

She really wished Lancelot had gone with her to Camelot.

 

 

Notes:

Arthur: It's my fault if your father wasn't there for you.
Merlyn: No. It was your father's fault. Not yours.
Arthur: You don't hate me?
Merlyn: No.
Arthur: My father is the reason you have only one parent
Merlyn: You know, he is also the reason you have only one parent.
Arthur: ...
Merlyn: ...
Arthur: I hate that you're right.

***

Merlyn: Finally, some sleep...
Uther: It's time to make some noise and find riches!
Merlyn: ...
Morgana: You're very quiet.
Merlyn: No one plans a murder loudly.

***

Merlyn: Welcome to our monthly session of 'who wants to kill the king'.
Arthur: This is treason.
Morgana: Who invited Arthur?
Merlyn: No one. He just followed me when I said that I had things to do.
Morgana: Annoying.
Merlyn: I know.

***

Uther&Arthur: *don't see the dead body*
Merlyn: Are we sure that Arthur is the Once and Future King? Maybe it's Morgana.

***

Merlyn: I found this diary in a grave that could be cursed. Now, I won't do any other dangerous things.
Merlyn: Maybe I should just call Nimueh...

***

Nimueh: *doing her things*
Merlyn: Hi!
Nimueh: *scared for life*

***

Nimueh: Cornelius Sigan is very powerful.
Merlyn: What happened?
Nimueh: A Pendragon killed him.
Merlyn: These Pendragons are so funny.

***

Nimueh: Sigan built Camelot.
Merlyn: Look, I don't care if he kills Uther, cause he is an idiot and he ruined my sleep for weeks. Also, Arthur knows the truth about his birth and I'm sure he won't care particularly if Uther dies or not. But, I don't want that the innocents pay for this.
Nimueh: Teenagers scare the living shit out of me

***

Arthur: Cedric will take your place.
Merlyn: ....
Gwen: Why are you so quiet?
Merlyn: Morgana would make an excellent queen, right?
Gwen: Yes.
Merlyn: Good.

***

Gwen: I think Merlyn will kill Uther and Arthur.
Morgana: Oh.
Gwen:
Morgana:
Gwen:
Morgana: It's Merlyn.
Gwen: Right. You'd make an excellent queen.
Morgana: Thank you.
Gwen: Merlyn thinks this too.
Morgana: I will keep her for political assassinations.
Gwen: That's a good idea.

Notes:

Kilgarrah: 'The boy has to die.'

Merlyn....

Merlyn : 'Nope'