Lord Ambrosius of Gwynnedd

by nlpiersee

Summary:

Hurt by a confrontation with a drunk Arthur, Merlin decides he's had enough and leaves Camelot. As he's leaving, Agravaine follows him, determined to kill him so he'll no longer cause him further issues. So Merlin reveals his magic and kills him instead before taking the man's horse and leaving. He travels for a while, playing music at taverns to earn food and shelter before he ends up helping an injured patrol of Caerleon Knights. Queen Annis takes him in and assigns him to train her physicians before discovering his heritage and naming him a knight and reinstating his father's name.

Along the way, Merlin becomes embroiled in courts and councils, three stubborn and playful princesses, and attends King Arthur's wedding at his Queen's side.

Before long, Merlin is lord of his own township, conducting magic lessons, and locating Morgana to try and bring her to his estate as a peace offering to the court of Camelot.

He really wishes he'd found a cave to hide in instead of joining Queen Annis some days....

Notes:

This will be all one chapter, because I did not want to split anything up. Had this in my files for a while, but am ready to finally set it loose. I hope you enjoy Merlin getting fed up with everything and just saying 'fuck it' and leaving Camelot to it's own devices.

The air was chilly as a sharp wind blew hard against the windows in Arthur’s room while Merlin tried his best to arrange the curtains to keep the warmth of the fire inside. He rubbed his hands together, trying to keep them warm, but knowing it didn’t matter because his room was always barely warmer than outside at this time of year. He was extremely thankful for the blanket that Gwen had stitched for him for Christmas a few years back. It was his favorite thing he owned. He stoked up the fire a bit more when the doors slammed open and Arthur stumbled inside, carrying a goblet that slopped on the floor. 

 

“You’ve been drinking tonight, haven’t you?” Merlin asked in exasperation, standing up and grabbing a cloth to clean up the mess. “Need any help?”

 

“‘M fine.” Arthur slurred, bumping into a chair as he walked across the room and sitting in the chair by the fire. “”S warm in here.” He complained.

 

“And it’s freezing outside.” Merlin replied, kneeling beside the King and taking his boots off. “You should change into your night clothes before you pass out in your chair.”

 

“Don’t tell me what to do, Merlin.” Arthur drawled grumpily, pushing up from his chair and slopping more wine along the way to the screen. His hair was ruffled and he had a few drops of wine staining the front of his pale shirt when he came back out and fell into his chair once more. “All day all I hear is more and more people telling me what to do.”

 

“That is what happens when you rule a kingdom.” Merlin agreed, trying to steer clear of the King as much as he could. He still wasn’t entirely past the events that happened at Longstead a fortnight back. He pulled the blankets back on the bed to prepare it for when Arthur was done feeling sorry for himself. Pain lanced through his head as something solid hit him. He reached up and felt the bump already forming and saw Arthur looking at him with something akin to fury in his eyes. 

 

“I’m not int’rested in your opinion, Merlin.” Arthur growled, stalking toward him. Merlin ducked down to grab the goblet and backed away from the King, but was stopped and shoved against the wall forcefully. He bit his lip to keep from reacting too much. “Why are you even still here?” Arthur demanded.

 

“I was preparing your room for the night the same as I always do.” Merlin said through gritted teeth. 

 

“That’s not what I meant.” Arthur snarled, slamming his palm against the wall, making Merlin jump, confused where the sudden temper was coming from. “Why are you in Camelot? What is it you're after?”

 

“You’re not making any sense, Arthur. I came to Camelot to become a physician, to train with Gaius.”

 

“And the magic?” Merlin’s eyes widened and he felt the blood drain from his face. 

 

“What?”

 

“Your magic, Merlin!” Arthur screamed, slamming his palm on the wall once more. “I saw Gaius’ book about the lamia. It doesn’t affect those with magic, nor women. So unless you’re hiding that you are in fact a girl, then the only conclusion is that you have magic. So I’ll ask one more time, before calling for the guards and sending you to the cells; why are you here?”

 

“I already told you.” Merlin whispered. “I came to train as a physician. Just because I’ve always had magic doesn’t mean I came here with a purpose to do any harm.”

 

“EVERYONE who comes to Camelot with magic always has a purpose. A vendetta. They always come here with the intent to kill as many people as they can.” Arthur snarled, before pulling his arm back and backhanding Merlin hard across his face, making him stumble. “Why are you here?”

 

“To study under Gaius.” Merlin repeated faintly, touching his cheek gently, feeling a welt where the King’s ring had connected. 

 

“I don’t believe you.” Arthur said through his clenched jaw. “Get out of my sight. I expect you to have a better answer in the morning when I call you before the council.” Arthur grabbed him by his collar and dragged him across the room, throwing him through the door and slamming it shut behind him. Merlin barely caught himself on the opposite wall to keep his face from smashing against it. 

 

He walked back to his room as calmly as he could, dodging out of sight of anyone he spotted coming his way. When he finally was behind closed doors again, he noticed Gaius wasn’t present. Merlin had forgotten that he’d been called to town for a birth early that day. It didn’t matter though. Arthur knew. Even if he was drunk out of his mind, he was bound to remember some of it in the morning, and Merlin wouldn’t be around to listen to any of his excuses. 

 

That’s all he seemed to do anymore, since Agravaine got there. Make excuses for everything he did. Merlin was tired of it. The past year alone had been tremendously heartbreaking for him and he was beyond done waiting for Arthur to become the King he was meant to be. At some moments, Merlin could see him, even. But most of the time he fell easily back into what Uther had taught. And he just couldn’t do it anymore. 

 

“Fuck this.” Merlin sniffed, wiping his face and throwing his things in his pack, rolling Gwen’s blanket up and strapping it on top. He tossed Arthur’s mother’s sigil on the table by his bed; he didn’t want any reminders of all the hurts he’d collected living here. He pulled on the cloak that Lancelot bought him the previous winter and shoved thick wool socks on his hands, his fingers sticking out. A noble had left them behind so Merlin had saved them for gloves when he needed them. 

 

He had a small stash of coins that he’d saved that he hadn’t sent to his mother and tied them to his belt. He paused for a moment before grabbing the lute from the corner and setting it over his pack. If it came down to it, he could offer to play music for a warm night inside somewhere. He stopped with his hand on the door for a moment and looked back over the physicians room that had become so familiar, a home, the past several years. He’d miss Gaius and his studies, but he could always pick back up on the road and apprentice somewhere else. 

 

“I’ll miss this.” He said faintly. “But I can’t stay. Fuck Arthur if he can’t see what’s going on around him. And Fuck Camelot. I’m done. I’m done being treated as less than human. Maybe you can make him see sense, maybe you can’t. But I’m fucking done. With all of this.”

 

He wiped his face once more and slipped out the door, making his way through dark corridors, avoiding patrols and roving guards. He’d only just made it in the treeline when he heard a horse moving fast in his direction. The moon was full and bright so he could run, but it meant whoever was pursuing him could see him too. He ran until he heard the twang of a crossbow being fired and swerved out of the way, but it sent him crashing to the ground as he tripped on a rock. 

 

“Well, well. If it isn’t the King’s pet, out for a midnight walk.” Agravaine chuckled, dismounting. “Finally realized how little you mean to him, then?”

 

“What do you want, Agravaine?” Merlin asked, climbing to his feet slowly and stepping back to keep some space between them.

 

“To make sure you are done interfering with Lady Morgana’s plans, of course. Since you’re leaving, no one will be surprised when you turn up killed by bandits in the forest as you ran away in the middle of the night.”

 

“Just let me go. He’s already chosen you, there’s no reason to try and kill me. Not when I’m leaving.”

 

“There’s every reason! Somehow, some way, the King will find you again and you’ll tell him everything, and he’ll finally believe you. I can’t have that. You understand?” 

 

Merlin glared at Agravaine but ducked as a sword swung at his head. He sidestepped and dodged and rolled out of the way, but Agravaine caught him along his cheek. 

 

“Fuck you!” Merlin shouted and put his hand up sending Agravaine flying backward and into a tree, falling to the ground in a heap with a loud crack. “You should have left me alone and let me fucking leave in peace.” He growled over Agravaine, whose eyes were unfocused and blood dripped from the corner of his mouth. 

 

“You have magic.” Agravaine wheezed, his hand fumbling at his side.

 

“I was born with it.” Merlin snarled, barely freezing Agravaine’s arm in time when he swung a dagger at him. Merlin plucked it from his hand and held it against his neck. “You were as much a pawn to Morgana, as I was to Arthur. Let the Pendragon’s sort their own feud. You and I are done participating. Thanks for the horse, I wasn’t looking forward to walking all the way.”

 

Merlin pushed the dagger just hard enough that the tip broke skin over an artery, leaving a small slice. Once he was satisfied that Agravaine would not be getting up again, he left him there and climbed on the horse, heading further away from Camelot and his supposed destiny. 

 

He traveled for some time before he found himself in the outer regions of Gwynnedd, within a day or two of the capital, Caerleon. He stopped at an inn and played music and sang bawdy songs to the cheering crowd. The barman offered him a room and food since he’d given them so much business that night. So Merlin stayed there for a few days. 

 

When he moved to the next town, he played some more, people cheered some more, but the business wasn’t what it was in the last town due to an illness that had swept through. The day after he arrived he offered his skills as a healer and, using a little magic, he had the people on their way to recovery instead of waiting out a slow and painful death. He got some new boots for his efforts. 

 

When he was nearing the coast, he stumbled across a patrol that had a few injured knights. They accepted his offer of healing them easily enough. Once they were treated, he played for them around the fire, making them howl with laughter and clap heartily. Instead of going on, they requested him to come to the castle, which he couldn’t refuse without looking like he was hiding something. So he went. Queen Annis raised a curious eyebrow at him when he arrived with her knights singing his praises for his healing and entertainment.

 

“How is it that a physician of Camelot, the personal servant to King Arthur, finds himself so far from home?” She asked, watching him suspiciously.

 

“I wasn’t wanted there anymore. Not when the King discovered my secret. So I left. Better to leave than stick around and wait for him to send me to the pyre or the headsman.” Merlin admitted honestly.

 

“Ah. So he found out about your magic. Took him long enough.” She snorted, relaxing back against her throne. “How would you feel about staying here for a time? We’re in need of a physician as ours recently passed and his apprentices were not done with their training.”

 

“Can you promise you won’t execute me? I’m not entirely familiar with the laws here, but I know the treaty with Camelot calls for you to ban magic as they have.”

 

“What Uther, let alone Arthur, doesn’t know about other kingdoms can fill several books. Just because we signed a treaty for trading goods and using each other’s roads, does not give either of us the right to demand such petty and overzealous actions against our own people. Besides, they never read the fine print we add in at the bottom, nor translate it. I know for a fact the old man, Gaius, I believe, could translate it and let his king know that we keep to our own governances unless passing troops of Camelot citizens are involved.”

 

“That’s very clever.” Merlin conceded with a crooked grin that the Queen copied. “If you’d like me to stay, I’d be happy to.”

 

“Perfect. The biggest thing you really need to concern yourself with, for the time being, is that we don’t allow magic to be used on another person maliciously, or without permission. Even for healing. Someone has to give you permission to use healing spells, in case the injured person is unable to do so themselves. Obvious exceptions such as battles exist, but I don’t plan to send you anywhere until we’ve seen what you can do to defend yourself.”

 

“As long as you have someone patient enough to teach me, I’m happy to pick up a sword. I’ve only ever really defended myself or blocked attacks during training so the knights could practice and not wear each other out.” Merlin said thoughtfully, following the Queen through the castle. She rapped a few times sharply on the door before going inside where three teen-aged, or barely past teen-age, kids sat reading through books and grinding herbs before jumping to their feet and bowing. 

 

“This is Master Merlin, he was a physician in Camelot. He’ll be taking over your studies. When he is satisfied with your progress, you’ll be able to take your skills back to your villages. Yes?”

 

“Yes, your highness.” They repeated, looking at Merlin curiously.

 

“Very well. Don’t go too easy on them. They’re bright and have a thirst for learning healing arts. I’ll send someone by each afternoon to collect you for arms training for a few hours. You’ll meet with me for dinner at the end of each week to report their progress. There’s a room through that door that you can use, the other doors along that wall are where they sleep, so you’ll all be available if something happens.”

 

“Do you have any problems with me visiting the tavern on occasion to play? I’ve gotten quite used to it the past few weeks and don’t really want to give it up just yet.”

 

“No problems so long as it doesn’t interfere with your teaching or training.”

 

“Works for me.” Merlin nodded. “Thank you for your hospitality, my lady.”

 

“Don’t thank me yet. I’ll get work out of you for it.” She said with a grin and left them alone. 

 

Merlin was actually surprised by how much he was enjoying his new life. The kids he taught were curious and constantly asking questions and they picked up recipes for remedies quickly. Two of them had a little magic and he also taught them the little healing spells he knew that could work for them. He sang in the tavern a few times a week, endearing himself to the townspeople even more than when he purchased supplies from them. 

 

After a few weeks, King Rodor and Princess Mithian came on a state visit, constantly looking sideways at Merlin as if they knew him, but Merlin had never met them before. His hair was a bit longer and had some slight waves in it and he wore a beard similar to Gwaine’s now. During one of the feasts, Merlin played some songs that were less bawdy and a few ballads thrown in. 

 

“Young man,” King Rodor said, when Merlin sat at the table off to the Queen’s left near the guests of honor, “are you from Camelot?”

 

“Originally I’m from Essetir, but I spent the last few years in Camelot, aye.”

 

“You wouldn’t be Merlin Hunithson, would you?”

 

“Depends.” Merlin shrugged, leaning forward and picking up his goblet. “If he’s in trouble, never ‘eard of him.” King Rodor laughed and the Princess was hiding her smile behind her goblet.

 

“Nothing like that.” The King said, still chuckling. “It’s just that he’s wanted in connection to the murder of the King’s Uncle, Agravaine du Bois.”

 

“Maybe the King should be thanking the person who took out one of Morgana’s spies instead of hunting him for defending himself against an unprovoked attack?” Merlin replied.

 

“And you told the King he was working with the witch?” Annis asked, looking at him curiously.

 

“Aye.” Merlin nodded. “Lot of good it did me. He refused to see his Uncle as being capable of such a thing just because he was his mother’s brother. Can’t force people to see what they refuse to even acknowledge.”

 

“That’s true enough.” Rodor said thoughtfully. “What is it you do here?”

 

“Ah, I’m a physician. Been training the youngins that the Queen had apprenticed to the old physician afore he died. They’re drinking it all in rather quickly. Smart and quick on their toes. I think they’ll be ready for treating on their own soon.”

 

“Your accent doesn’t sound as though it’s from Essetir.” Mithian pointed out, raising an eyebrow at him.

 

“It wouldn’t. Mum was from an Irish clan and moved there to get away from being dragged into any sort of feud. She was the King’s daughter, middle daughter, but still his favorite. She refused to be married off on his whim and ended up in Ealdor. Met my Da while there, but he was chased by knights of Camelot for his gift. She raised me alone and kept me in the house until I was old enough and could hide my magic better. Had to learn to hide the way I sound to avoid drawing attention to m’self. Been nice not having to watch my tongue so much.”

 

“Sounds miserable.” Mithian agreed. Merlin shrugged, he wasn’t really worried about it.

 

“When you’re done training the physician’s here,” Rodor said, casting a sideways glance at Annis, “perhaps you can come train up ours a bit.”

 

“If the Queen is alright with it I can plan a trip in a few months. When I’m satisfied that these folks know what to do when I’m not around for them to look at for reference.”

 

“We can discuss it.” Annis said, meeting Rodor’s eyes, and they began a whispered conversation as Merlin was dragged off to play more songs.

 

Being where he was, Merlin eventually went through the library looking through records of knights who were killed in battle; looking for Gwaine’s family. When he found the record, he made note of it and sought an audience with the Queen. Gwaine had always been a friend, and if he was in a position to help him in any way, he was going to do it. The Queen frowned at the records that Merlin had uncovered from before her husband ascended to the throne and worked with her council to send out compensation to the families who had been affected and invite them back to their homes. 

 

“We lost valuable resources by my husband’s father’s ignorance.” She growled out, when they were having dinner one evening.

 

“Aye. I know for a fact at least one of the lads who had been kicked out of his home is a knight of Camelot now. He’s a brilliant swordsman and a good friend.”

 

“His mother wrote back thanking me for the late compensation and agreed to send her daughter to return to their estate and take it over. It’ll be nice to have another hard-worked woman join my nobles.”

 

“If she’s an’thing like her brother, best keep an eye on the ale.” Merlin chuckled, and Annis grinned.

 

“Noted.” Annis stated, before staring long and hard at Merlin. “You’ll ride for Nemeth at the end of the week. I expect a notice within three days of your arrival of your assessment of their skills and how long you need to train their physicians or healers.”

 

“Alright.” Merlin nodded. “Will it just be me?”

 

“I will not send the best healer we’ve had in years off on his own, regardless of how adept he’s become at swordplay. No. You’ll have a contingent of four guards along with you. Two of your apprentices will return to their villages before you depart, and Willow will remain here. She was going to become our next court physician anyway, so she’ll be here when you return.”

 

“I do believe I like working for a Queen over a King.” Merlin said thoughtfully, smirking when Annis snorted.

 

“Yes, well, as much as men like to say we are emotion driven, they are worse. Women can put their emotions aside if they choose and focus on the larger picture.”

 

“So I’ve noticed. Do any of your knights have magic?”

 

“A handful do.”

 

“Would you be interested in them learning any defensive magic?”

 

“If you can demonstrate the benefit of using magic along with swordplay, I’ll consider it. Tomorrow at training you show me.”

 

“Works for me. Defensive spells were some of the first that I picked up. I’m curious about using them in tangent with sword and shield.”

 

The knights had been briefed that Merlin was going to be attempting to use magic while they sparred and had an excited look in their eyes. The fight started out like they always did, but another knight stepped in to add more of a challenge, then another, and Merlin was surrounded by at least four knights when he started throwing his hand out and sending them flying through the air. He put up a shield to cover his back when someone snuck up on him and grinned when they grunted in annoyance. 

 

When time was called, Merlin was standing in the midst of ten knights who lay on the ground panting and groaning. 

 

“Well done.” Annis said approvingly. “Looks like you’ll be training them when you get back from your state visit.”

 

“Aye, I can do that.” Merlin agreed, giving her a small bow. 

 

“Out of curiosity, how would you say your magic compares to that of Morgana Pendragon?” She asked, turning to walk back to the castle and indicating Merlin should follow.

 

“Depends how you look at it.” Merlin replied quietly. “According to prophecy I am her doom, so I’d say I exceed her.”

 

“Hm. You should ask Delwyn about our books on prophecy in the library.”

 

“You have prophecy books?” 

 

“We have a few. And they all come down to a battle between Emrys and the last High Priestess where she is defeated.”

 

“Yes, well Emrys was also supposed to guide and protect the Once and Future King but that’s a little hard to do when Emrys needs protection from him.” Merlin grumbled.

 

“So it seems.” Annis agreed thoughtfully. 

 

Merlin spent his free time the few days before he left looking through the books of prophecy but they were as clear as talking to Kilgharrah. 

 

King Rodor and Princess Mithian welcomed them to Nemeth happily, and the healers were excited to share in his knowledge. They were good at what they did, their practices were just a bit old fashioned. Merlin was able to get them trained up in just over a month. 

 

“Merlin, I wonder if I might have a word?” Mithian asked, the night before he was meant to leave. 

 

“Sure.” Merlin agreed, walking with her to the balcony she indicated.

 

“We’ve received an invitation from Camelot to renegotiate our treaty with them. I expect Annis will have one when you return to her. Probably Godwyn and Alined as well.”

 

“Alright.” Merlin nodded looking at her waiting for her actual question.

 

“Father is sending me in his stead. I believe he hopes for a marriage match.” She said through gritted teeth.

 

“Ah.” Merlin said, looking at the railing. “Well, when I left, Arthur was still courting Gwen, looking to propose soon. If a match is being talked about by your father, there’s every chance his council is attempting to talk him into it as well.”

 

“I do not want to marry someone who will be doing it solely to gain approval of the nobility, the men, he is surrounded by. There are no women on Camelot’s council, correct?”

 

“Correct.”

 

“Hm. What are the odds that he’ll be willing to negotiate over Gedref? Both our kingdoms have a solid claim to the lands.”

 

“Gedref.” Merlin sighed. “I really dislike the hedge maze there. If Arthur wants to keep it, I can’t guess why. It’s not a huge plot of land. Plus it used to be used for various ritual magic and observances. Which goes against everything Camelot has stood for. Perhaps remind him of that and see how he reacts.”

 

“You’ve been there.” She said curiously.

 

“Aye. My first year in Camelot, Arthur killed a unicorn on a hunt and it cursed the land. Anhora gave him tasks to complete to prove that Camelot was worth saving and he went to Gedref for the final test. I followed because I didn’t trust Anhora. Instead of a task,” Merlin swiped a hand over his face, “Anhora captured me and put the pair of us at a table telling us that we each had to drink out of one of two goblets; one with poison, one without. We each could only drink from one and all the liquid had to be drunk. I told Arthur that if we pour all the liquid in one of the goblets that it met the requirement and the prat distracted me and drank it all, effectively breaking the curse because he proved he valued my life, even though I was just a servant. I don’t think he realized it was a ritual to prove purity of heart.”

 

“I wonder what changed?” She said, her head tilted.

 

“Lots of things.” Merlin shrugged. “People came, manipulated and betrayed him, and he held on to Uther’s beliefs more firmly, especially once he died. He asked a sorcerer to try and heal his wound, but told Agravaine of his plan. Agravaine had time to get a cursed necklace from Morgana that he put on the dying King and reversed any attempts to heal him. Arthur wouldn’t hear Gaius when he told him that the King was already dying and that it was a good idea, but it wasn’t magic that killed his father. He refused to listen. I don’t even know if Gaius ever told him about the enchanted necklace or not. I wouldn’t be surprised if he didn’t in his effort to try and comfort Arthur.”

 

“And you were protecting him from the shadows the whole time.”

 

“I never wanted any attention.” Merlin shrugged. “Still don’t. Just want to make sure my friends and family are happy and safe. That’s enough for me. I never sought the sort of power that a so-called noble holds. Not if all they continue to do is use and abuse those in lower social standing. Arthur started taking Agravaine’s words as infallible just because he was family and a noble. Nothing I said really mattered after he arrived. If someone I stood by for nearly five years can push me aside so easily, then he was never the friend I thought he was. I never lied to him, I’m a terrible liar. But I’m pretty good at misdirection.” Merlin smiled, handing her a rose that he’d conjured, making her laugh brightly. “All it really takes is knowing what words to say and twisting them so that the person no longer remembers what they were asking.”

 

“Sounds somewhat manipulative.” She grinned accepting the flower.

 

“Could be, I ‘spose. Telling him that I got caught in another portion of a tournament with another competitor when I was really guiding a young sorcerer to not use his magic for revenge wasn’t going to hurt him. Had to get efficient at choosing my words when telling him outright that his soon to be step-mother was a troll enchanting his father only got me yelled at and sent into hiding while trying to figure out how to break said enchantment. Couldn’t tell him that Morgana was his sister when I found out, he already thought of her that way and assumed she thought of him as her brother, regardless of blood. Telling him that his Uncle had manipulated evidence to accuse Gaius of treachery only got Gaius kidnapped and nearly killed and me yelled at some more. Maybe I manipulate my words, but it’s only because I’ve learned the hard way when it comes to things that matter, that mean life or death, I’m ignored because I’m only a servant.”

 

“And I take it from the bitterness in your voice he never apologized.”

 

“Not once.” Merlin agreed. “Anyway, any further questions, my lady?”

 

“I don’t believe so. I’ve requested to visit Annis and stay for a time to see how she rules and prepare for my own future role as Queen, should I be crowned before I find a worthy husband that isn’t after me solely for a chance at power.”

 

“Perhaps see if Princess Elena wants to come as well? I don’t believe she’s married, and if she does marry, I suspect the person would become a consort instead of King.”

 

“That’s a wonderful idea. Perhaps I’ll extend an invitation to Vivian as well. She could do with seeing how a woman acts as a powerful figure instead of a simpering, snotty brat.”

 

“Aye.” Merlin snorted, grinning. “Hopefully the love spell has worn off and she’ll be amenable.”

 

“Love spell?”

 

“King Alined had a sorcerer, Trickler, when he came to treat with Camelot, hoping to drive them into war. Put a love spell on Arthur and Vivian. Was able to break Arthur’s with true love’s kiss. Not sure what ever happened to Vivian though.”

 

“Could you break it?”

 

“Maybe. I’ve learned a fair bit more since then, so probably.”

 

“I’ll send for her. Expect the three of us in Caerleon the end of next month.” She nodded. Merlin gave her a small bow and watched her leave, staying where he was and just watching the stars.

 

When he was leaving, Rodor slipped him an old book, winking at him before waving them off. Merlin’s eyes widened in surprise when found it was a book on dragons and dragonlords. When he got back to Annis’ castle, he went straight to her council meeting.

 

“Merlin. Welcome back.” She said as warmly as she always did. Which was a tad warmer than her normal frigid demeanor. “Tell me how the training went?”

 

“It went well, your highness. The healers were merely outdated, so I brought them up to speed with more efficient practices. Princess Mithian informed me of her intent to come stay and see how a Queen rules without a King.”

 

“That is true. She’s meant to arrive the end of next month.” 

 

“It was also suggested that Princess’ Elena and Vivian join so as to prepare for their future roles.”

 

“Was it now.” She stated, looking at him appraisingly. “Still no Queen on the throne in Camelot, then?”

 

“Not that I’m aware of.” Merlin nodded. “I, er, I have a request, highness.”

 

“Oh?”

 

“You know I have magic.” Merlin said, focusing on not shifting his weight to show his nervousness. “But I am also the last dragonlord.”

 

“Are you now?”

 

“As far as I know. The others all either died at Uther’s hands or fled Albion.”

 

“And you want to know if you can bring a dragon here.” 

 

“Two, actually.” Merlin said, feeling his face heat up as the council all stared at him incredulously. “One is centuries old, one is newly hatched this year.”

 

“How would you describe the council offered by the elder?” She asked curiously.

 

“When he doesn’t talk in riddles, he can be helpful. But if he knew this was a safe place, he might take up residence in some of the caves along the cliffs by the sea and help protect the kingdom.”

 

“And your personal opinion?”

 

“I think he’s a great, giant bat who talks out of his arse to explain why he chooses to do what he does. We get on better now than we did initially. Granted that might be more because I’m the only kin he has left here, now, after my father was killed.”

 

“Hm. All in favor of returning dragons to Gwynnedd?” She asked, looking among her council who all raised their hands. “Motion passed. When would you wish to call them?”

 

“As soon as possible. I’m not sure how far away they are, so I’d like to give them time to get here before sunset.”

 

“Let us adjourn to the training grounds, then,  Lord Merlin will call his dragons.” She said standing.

 

“It’s just Merlin.” He corrected, before biting his lip at her raised eyebrow. 

 

“You are a dragonlord. They were once nobility in many kingdoms, including mine. I’m certain if we look into your family history that we would find a keep in shambles and lands that you should have inherited and are now magically tied to you.”

 

Merlin nodded, bowed as she passed him, before falling in step behind her, the council following along chattering excitedly about seeing a dragon again. He stood in front of the small crowd and tipped his head back, roaring into the sky for Kilgharrah and Aithusa to come to him. After only a few minutes a small white creature approached, looking like a bird, until it descended and landed on Merlin’s head, making him laugh as she chirped at him happily. 

 

“Queen Annis,” Merlin said, caressing Aithusa’s head, “this is Aithusa. She’s just under a year old.”

 

“Pretty little thing, aren’t you?” Annis said, reaching up and scratching the dragon’s scaly head.

 

“What is that?” One of the councilors exclaimed as Kilgharrah’s looming form took shape in his approach. Merlin walked back to his original place and stood patiently waiting for him to land. He bowed his head to Merlin reverently before peering at the people around him.

 

“Kilgharrah.” Merlin said, inclining his head to the old dragon.

 

“Merlin.” Kilgharrah said a little chidingly. 

 

“We have much to discuss, I’m afraid. But for now, you and Aithusa have been offered sanctuary here with Queen Annis.”

 

“Ah, so the Caerleon line has ended, I see.” Kilgharrah said somewhat sadly, looking at the Queen.

 

“Our sons died in battle some years ago, so that holds true.” She said, stepping forward. “We thought you dead all these years, Great One. Balinor never returned and we feared him dead as well.”

 

“I was held prisoner under Camelot by Uther, who promised us sanctuary and peace. And here another ruler offers the same to his son. If you were not descended from dragonlords yourself, then I would not accept your offer.”

 

“I understand. Now that I see which dragons Merlin was calling, I don’t have to dig through as many records as I expected to find his inheritance. Will you stay there or nearer the citadel?”

 

“I’ll inspect the old keep and see how it fares before I decide. Aithusa should stay close to Merlin until she is a bit older. I do not have the patience for newborns anymore and find myself annoyed with her more often than not.” Aithusa chirped at him excitedly while Kilgharrah groaned.

 

“All I ask is that you refrain from eating our cattle, Great One. The forest has plenty of deer and the sea has all the fish you can catch.”

 

“I’ll return in a few days once I’ve assessed the Ambrosius estate. Take care, Merlin. And do not forget that you owe me an explanation when I return.”

 

“Wouldn’t dream of it.” Merlin said, rolling his eyes while Aithusa bounced on his shoulder. 

 

“Good to see the old coot is still alive.” Annis said once Kilgharrah had taken off, looking at Merlin curiously. “Now I see how much you look like your father. I didn’t see it before as I didn’t know what I was looking for. But you look similar to how he did in his youth when he foolishly flew off to meet Uther.”

 

“I only met him once.” Merlin said, focusing on Aithusa who was rubbing her snout in his hair. “He died a few days later. Mother never talked about him when I was a child aside from telling me that he had to flee because of his talents.”

 

“His magic was always stronger than the others.” Annis said thoughtfully. “We have a keep your hatchling can stay in, but I’m not sure she’ll stay there. Commands only work to an extent until they’re nearer to two.”

 

“Sounds right.” Merlin sighed. “Perhaps moving me closer to the keep would work since Willow is your official court physician?”

 

“It will work temporarily. Until Kilgharrah has assessed your estate. I’ll get Delwyn started on the documents to update the Ambrosius line. Your mother is welcome to join you there.”

 

“As long as she has room to garden, I’m sure she’ll be more than happy.” Merlin nodded. 

 

True to his word, Kilgharrah showed up again a few days later, offering to take Merlin to the keep that belonged to his family, but Annis requested he travel with a few knights until he had a chance to hire his own guards. The land was a bit overgrown, but could be taken care of with a few weeks of hard work. The estate itself was in pretty decent shape, all things considered. There were only a few places where walls needed rebuilt or reinforced, as well as a new gate, since the only thing left of the one there were splinters. 

 

Merlin had sent word for his mother to meet him, and while he waited for her, he pulled weeds and cleared out debris, the knights pitching in and helping when it took more than one person to lift the heavier bits. While Kilgharrah wasn’t happy that Merlin had left Camelot, he couldn’t blame him. Aithusa seemed to love exploring their new home.

 

“Look at you,” Hunith said, smiling brightly as she approached her son, “given a title and still digging in the dirt.”

 

“Hello mother.” Merlin chuckled, hugging her. 

 

“Your father used to talk about this place, about bringing me here someday.”

 

“And now you get to see it. It would have been nicer to have him here, but we had a good life. You gave me a good life. Now it’s my turn to do that for you.”

 

“Not even close, love. I’m your mother. It will be my job to love and protect you and provide for you until the end of my days. Best accept it now.” She patted his arm and let him give her a tour, showing her the bedroom he’d set up for her. “Do you want to hire staff, or no?”

 

“I think we should. It’d give people jobs and since this house is about twice the size of Ealdor it’d be nice to have help looking after it.” Merlin grinned when she snorted.

 

“I’ll take care of that, then.” She chuckled. “Oh my goodness! Aren’t you just precious!” She exclaimed when Aithusa hopped after them through the open door. 

 

“Mother, this is Aithusa, Aithusa, this is my mother, Hunith. Can you say hello?”

 

“‘Ello.” She growled, almost like she was biting the word out. 

 

“Good job, darling.” Hunith praised. “We’ll get you talking really well before long.”

 

By the end of the month, his mother had hired a few cooks, a couple stable hands to handle the two horses they had, a dozen men as guards who rotated shifts, and even a handful of maids. Annis had sent a few more knights to retrieve him when the Princess’ all arrived, asking for his presence as Lord Ambrosius. He rolled his eyes at the title and strummed his lute singing songs the whole ride back, making the knights hold their stomachs with laughter frequently. 

 

When Merlin arrived back in Caerleon at the castle, he found a frowning Annis on the steps.

 

“That girl is still very much enchanted.” Annis growled, and Merlin hummed. 

 

“Want me to give it a go at breaking it?”

 

“If you don’t, I fear I’ll be sending her back to her father without a tongue.”

 

“Of course.” Merlin chuckled, but followed the Queen to her throne room, where the other young women waited. He greeted Mithian and Elena happily, before stopping in front of Vivian. He shook his hands out and took hers gently, drawing a frown from the girl. 

 

Merlin recited the spell he’d created, that Kilgharrah said would remove the current enchantment, and watched as her eyes widened in shock and slowly cleared. 

 

“What?” She croaked, once he was done. “What have you done to me? What’s going on?” She demanded.

 

“You were under an enchantment, and I’ve released it. Here, drink this, it will help with the disorientation, then wear this charm. It will help ease the headaches you will no doubt experience over the next few days.” Merlin offered her a vial and a necklace that held a small crystal. She drank the potion when Merlin gave her a reassuring smile and quickly placed the charm on her neck.

 

“I feel like I’ve been asleep for months.” She said in confusion. 

 

“You practically have.” Annis said comfortingly as she could. “If you prefer to rest for the day and join us tomorrow, that would be acceptable.”

 

“I’d rather stay with a group, if it’s all the same.” Vivian replied certainly. 

 

“Very well.” Annis accepted. “We’ll have lunch and then head to council this afternoon. Tomorrow morning I am testing new knights, so there won’t be anything until the afternoon.”

 

“Do you test the knights yourself or have a designated trainer?” Mithian asked interestedly, as they sat around a table that had places set for all of them, including Merlin. 

 

“I have a designated trainer, who I tested myself, many years ago. And as much as I trust him, I do look forward to when he’s beaten. That means that the men who came forward are good, strong fighters. Able to defend my kingdom easily. I’m interested to see how Lord Ambrosius does, if I’m being entirely honest.” Annis smirked when Merlin spit out his water, and coughed several times before wiping his face. 

 

“You never said anything about testing me.” Merlin complained.

 

“I’ll ensure a copy of our laws get sent to your estate.” She said, still grinning. “As it stands, the Lord or Lady of any estate must either come forth or send their eldest son or daughter to become a knight for a year before taking over when they’re of age. I’m sure I told you.”

 

“Well I’m sure you didn’t.” Merlin grumbled, before sniffing and leaning back against his chair, ignoring Elena and Mithian’s snickering. “Fine. I’m not sure I’m good enough to be a knight, but if you're just testing me anyway, it can’t hurt anything.”

 

“Can you fight?” Vivan asked, her face scrunched up, looking him up and down from where she sat. “You don’t look like much.”

 

“Looks can be deceiving.” Annis informed her. “He doesn’t have the bulk that a lot of knights rely on, which means he can move more quickly on his feet. He’s tall, so he has a decent reach with a sword. And that’s not including using his magic. The trick is always to see which men play to their own strengths instead of going for brute force.”

 

Merlin’s face was warm, and he was certain he was probably blushing.

 

“Using his unassuming presence to throw off his opponent.” Elena agreed. “It’s a great strategy.”

 

“Most men charge in hoping for the element of surprise, while gauging their opponents reaction times.” Mithian agreed. “Going in and presenting yourself as smaller and seeming meek will have the opponent using all of their force right away, thinking to be finished quickly, and instead they will tire faster and be unable to defend themselves.”

 

“Quite right. We do not want men defending our kingdom as knights who rely on their own brute force and do not stop to appraise the situation they are in beforehand. They need to read their opponent and search for weaknesses instead of rushing out and being killed for their arrogance.”

 

“Start off with strategy by sizing up the opponent quickly.” Vivian said, nodding her understanding. 

 

“Precisely.” Annis said, smiling proudly.

 

“It can be beneficial, being seen as meek and unassuming.” Merlin added, drawing all of their eyes. “Most men, and some women, will approach a fight as if they already know they will win. They stand tall, with their shoulders back so that their true size is displayed. When it comes to a larger scale battle, those are the ones who usually stand on the front lines, so their eventual recklessness does not affect the entire course or flow of the fight. 

 

“By having a test where they are forced to go one on one with an expert swordsman or swordswoman, they are forced to see their own flaws. They can either accept where they went wrong and work to better their understanding, or they can remain arrogant and put their entire squad at risk. Honestly those people make better standing guards than Knights. This can also apply in council and matters of state.” Merlin continued, leaning his elbows on the table and waving his hands a bit as he talked. 

 

“When you go into your first council sessions as leaders, your council is going to be sizing you up, appraising you. They are going to forget that you have been there before in your lesser role. They are going to see you as weak and young and more easily molded to their desires. Let them assume that. For a time.” Merlin said, holding his hands up at the affronted looks on the Princess’ faces. “Let them assume that, because the first time they bring up a law change or tax, they will have forgotten that you have been studying the records of your kingdoms since you were children since your fathers only had daughters. They will not expect you to remind them of the origin of those laws, nor the list of examples you will have ready to decimate their idea.”

 

“So play the unassuming role to gauge who will be testing us and where the others stand?” Elena asked.

 

“Yes. Because a majority may disagree with whoever brings their idea forward first, but they want to see how you will handle it before offering their opinions. They will be testing you to see if you are merely a decorative dagger, dull edged but pretty, or a sharp-edged, well cared for lethal force.”

 

“Can’t we be pretty and dangerous?” Vivan whined, while Merlin smiled and Mithian and Elena chuckled.

 

“I actually encourage that.” Merlin said, still smiling. “Because while they are distracted by your looks, you will be able to run circles around them in strategy talks, laws, defense, and potential allies.”

 

“See?” Annis said, winking at Merlin, who knew he would not like what she said next. “He’s more than just a pretty face, and if he can be, why not you?”

 

Merlin groaned and covered his face as the girls all laughed delightedly. 

 

“Council should be starting soon.” Annis sighed, getting to her feet, everyone following her example, even though Merlin was a little reluctant. “Take mental notes of what you see and we can discuss it at dinner.”

 

They walked the short distance to her council chamber and took seats where Annis directed them. Merlin was in the chair just to Annis’ left, which drew some curious looks. She, of course, ignored them all and brought the session to start. 

 

Merlin took a light dinner in his room since he wanted to review his movements if he was going to have to actually participate in the knight testing in the morning. He slept pretty hard for a few hours, but woke rather early, as he had been getting up in the mornings to try and make sure the land was ready for gardening when his mother was ready to start planting. He donned the simple leather armor that had a few metal plates in it but allowed him fuller range of motion. When he arrived at the field he was greeted enthusiastically by several of the knights who had been training with him before the past month. 

 

“Attention!” Annis shouted, effectively silencing the gathered group of men and few women that had shown up, the knights taking their places behind them. “This morning you will be tested to see if you have what it takes to become a knight or if you still have more work yet to do. Sir Bregdan will call you forward when it is your chance. If you are still standing after a minute, you will move to the left of the field. If you are not, the right. This does not mean that you will not ever become a knight. It only means that you are not ready and require more training. Sir Bregdan, they’re yours.”

 

“Alright. When I call your name, step into the circle. I want no commentary from those of you still waiting. There will be no cheering, no jeering, and no grumbling.” He said, standing at the edge of a painted circle in the grass. He was probably a few inches taller than Merlin, had a broader chest, and fairly well muscled. He wasn’t the same as the champion used when Camelot met them for potential war, but he looked like he could have held his own against the giant pretty well.

 

Out of the first three men and two women, only one man and one woman lasted the required length of time. When it was finally his turn, he stepped forward and immediately took up a stance, summoning a shield of magic, grinning when Sir Bregdan nodded approvingly before he attacked. It was faster paced than he was used to, but he wasn’t held back by his bulk like Bregdan was. When he managed to disarm Bregdan, he was breathing heavily, and the time was called.

 

“Well fought, Lord Ambrosius.” Bregdan said, accepting the hand up Merlin had offered, and Merlin huffed.

 

“Not going to be able to ever go by just Merlin again, am I?” He muttered, making Bregdan chuckle quietly.

 

“Best get used to it now. Hurry up and get over there, I’ve got another four lads and three lass’ to test.”

 

“Fair.” Merlin said, heading for his place on the left side of the field. 

 

By the end there were five of them out of the 13 who were being knighted. Families began showing up for the celebration, including Hunith, who fussed over his wild hair that had started to curl a bit more.

 

“Mother, it’s fine.” Merlin complained. 

 

“It is now.” She agreed, straightening his cloak. “You look good in black. I think I prefer it to Camelot’s red anyway. Red always washed out your face and made you look incredibly pale.”

 

“I am incredibly pale.” Merlin said, rolling his eyes, snickering when she swatted his arm, before going to stand and watch the proceedings. 

 

Annis called each of them forward, bestowing their knighthoods and calling their families up and recognizing them for their efforts. When she got to Merlin’s mother, she winked at him before she faced her. Merlin narrowed his eyes, not liking that look.

 

“Lady Hunith, your son has managed to become well loved in my kingdom by all. You have raised a fine young man who will bring your house more honor and glory than he already has as the last remaining heir to the Ambrosius line and the last dragonlord.” Merlin groaned quietly when the crowd gasped. “I personally wanted to thank you for the man he turned into. Granted he could do with finding a few more appropriate songs to sing around fires and at feasts.” 

 

“Thank you, your highness.” Hunith said, fighting back a smile.

 

“Let the feast begin.” Annis announced, waving at everyone to begin mingling and finding places to sit along the large tables around the room.

 

His mother chastised him lightly about the songs he chose to sing, but was distracted by several of the other knights dragging him off to socialize with them. Mithian and Elena each pulled him away to make him dance with them, laughing when he made faces or whispered in their ears about everyone that was staring at them. His mother bid him goodnight at one point, telling him to behave. He offered to walk her to her room, but Sir Bregdan stepped in and offered, nodding Merlin toward some of the others who were holding a lute out for him. He didn’t drink, but he was having fun, so at least he wouldn’t have a headache in the morning like the others.

 

Merlin was surprised when Annis received an invitation to Arthur’s wedding along with his Queen’s coronation. Mithian, Elena, and Vivian all received their invitations as well. 

 

“You’re going.” Annis said firmly, but Merlin scowled. 

 

“If I go, there is every chance that I’ll be arrested as soon as someone recognizes me.” He pointed out.

 

“They’ll have to go through me first. And as I already know what happened, I’ll be able to negotiate a withdrawal of the accusations.”

 

“He won’t want me there.”

 

“Too bad. I need a strong envoy present. You are one of our best defenders, sword or magic, and you are one of my noble houses. You’re going.”

 

“Aithusa-”

 

“Can be cared for by your mother, as has been happening since you’ve been here assisting me with the Princesses.”

 

“I don’t have the social training for this kind of event.”

 

“Which is part of why I want you there. Your bluntness is perfect for any treaty negotiations that Camelot will wish to present while we are all present.”

 

“I’m not getting out of this am I?”

 

“Not a chance.” Annis agreed.

 

“Fine. Am I going as a knight or Lord Ambrosius?”

 

“Both. You’ll be serving me in your capacity as a knight alongside Sir Bregdan, and will be the two strongest noble houses we have. Sir Bregdan is regent for the northern region until Lord Harper is of age in a few more months. Now stop complaining and go pack already. I expect you ready to leave at first light.”

 

“Yes, your highness.” Merlin said petulantly, ignoring her grin at having won as he went to pack.

 

The envoy leaving was one of the biggest in some time. There were an additional 15 knights with Merlin and Bregdan. They were arranged around the Princesses, while Merlin and Bregdan were kept by Annis’ side to the annoyance of her men. She had to promise them that Merlin could sing by the fires each night in order to keep them focused on their task. There were a handful of servants with them and two guards who were bringing up the wedding gifts. 

 

“You aren’t as recognizable as you were back then.” Elena said, startling him as he stared off toward Camelot on one of their breaks. “The beard hides your face well, and you have this scar now.” She touched his face gently where Agravaine had sliced him in their confrontation. It ran from his hairline down through his eyebrow and stopped in the middle of his cheek.

 

“I left for a reason, I’m just not excited about going back, is all. I don’t entirely care if they recognize me or not.”

 

“You do.” She teased, looping her arm through his and leaning her head on his shoulder. “It’ll be alright. You have us now.”

 

“True. I’ve never really had people on my side before. Makes a nice change.”

 

“I’m going to miss your wit when I go home again. Promise you’ll come visit?”

 

“Of course I’m going to come visit.” Merlin scoffed, grinning when she giggled. “It’ll have to be after my year of serving as a knight is up, unless I get sent your way on a diplomatic mission, which may very well happen.”

 

“Either way, I look forward to showing you all the fun places to hide in Gawant.”

 

“Sounds good to me.” Merlin agreed. 

 

Annis quickly called them all back to head out once more. They were expecting to be in Camelot that evening. A full day and a half before the wedding. He hoped that he could avoid everyone he used to know. Annis rode at the front of the procession as they hit the cobblestone roads leading to the castle, with Merlin and Bregdan still at her side, and everyone following behind. Merlin clenched his jaw when he saw Arthur and his court all lined up on the steps of the castle. 

 

When they arrived, he and Bregdan dismounted and helped Annis down, staying just behind her as she approached the King while the other knights assisted the Princesses who lined up behind Annis. 

 

“Welcome, Queen Annis. I’m glad you could make it.”

 

“As am I.” She said, though Merlin spotted her jaw was nearly as firmly clenched as his own. “I hope you’ve enough room for us all.”

 

“Of course. There are quarters that are set up for the knights, though I was told you were bringing 15, not 17.”

 

“The 15 I mentioned were for protection of the Princesses Mithian, Elena, and Vivian. The additional men are my personal guard and from the noblest houses in Gwynnedd. They are here as representatives of my kingdom as well as knights.”

 

“Of course. Their rooms will be next to yours. I apologize for forgetting that you had mentioned you were bringing additional representatives.”

 

“No problem. Wedding nerves strike in most unexpected ways.” She grinned when Arthur chuckled and ducked his head briefly. “Will we be needed for the evening or are we free to retire for the night?”

 

“There is a small feast for your welcome, while the large feast will take place the day of the wedding celebrations.”

 

“Wonderful. Gowan, Lucas.” She called back, and the guards came forward with the wedding presents. “Allow me to present these gifts in honor of your union.” She opened the case and revealed a few intricate jewels and some ornate daggers.

 

“These are most appreciated, your highness.” Arthur said thankfully. Merlin watched as the case was handed off to some servants. “Sir Leon and Sir Elyan will show your knights where they will be staying, George can give your servants a tour so they know where to go for what they need, and Anna will show the Princesses where they will be staying. If you’ll allow me, I’ll show you to your quarters personally?”

 

“That’s very generous of you.” She nodded her approval and there was a hustle of bags being taken from the horses as servants and knights all began filing into the castle. 

 

Merlin bit his cheek when he stepped back into the familiar corridors and gripped the hilt of his dagger for comfort. Annis sent Bregdan into the first room, keeping Merlin between his room and hers, before bidding Arthur farewell until the feast. He hadn’t once looked up at Merlin. Merlin was equally annoyed and grateful for that. He took his cloak off and shook it out, dusting it off so it was not covered in dirt from the road. He also brushed off his boots and changed his shirt and trousers so he didn’t smell like the ground or his horse.

 

Bregdan had done the same and met Merlin in the hall, waiting on each side of Annis’ door. When she came out, they followed one step behind, scanning each corridor and alcove for potential ambushes. When they arrived at the impressively decorated chamber, Annis strode forward and took the chair designated for her. The Princesses arrived shortly after, inclining their heads to Annis and Merlin in turn before taking their seats as well. The fact that they acknowledged Merlin as well as the Queen drew some curious gazes his way. 

 

Everyone stood as Arthur and Gwen came in, taking their seats at the head of the table. Merlin was seated between Bregdan and Annis, and Merlin frowned at the knight, knowing frowning at Annis would get him nowhere. Bregdan pursed his lips as he tried to ignore him throughout Arthur’s welcome speech. 

 

“No point whining about it, Merlin.” Bregdan whispered while the hall clapped politely. “Besides, you’ll only draw more attention to yourself by frowning so much.”

 

“Don’t think I haven’t figured out what you’re both doing. As if I’m the one that needs protection, not the Queen. I’m no more or less valuable than any other knight. This is ridiculous and I will find a way to get you back when we get home. Don’t think I’ll forget.”

 

“Accepted.” Bregdan nodded, grinning at him crookedly. “Going to spar with us and the Camelot knights tomorrow, then?”

 

“Thought I would. Granted I know how they all fight and they have no idea how I fight.”

 

“I bet I can knock that big fellow down in about two minutes.” Bregdan said, nodding at Percival and Merlin tilted his head. 

 

“Percival. Three.” Merlin countered. 

 

“We’ll see. What about you?”

 

“Hm. I’ll get Elyan down in about a minute and a half.” Merlin said, nodding to the knight in question.

 

“Make it a minute and I’ll get you a new lute.”

 

“I could use a new lute.” Merlin said thoughtfully. “Fine. One minute.”

 

“Good man.” Bregdan chuckled, patting Merlin’s shoulder happily, while Annis smirked from the corner of her mouth at hearing their conversation.

 

Merlin made faces at the Princesses occasionally, making them snicker or laugh rather loudly while he pretended he hadn’t done anything. Annis sighed heavily when he did it again, and he could feel her eyes boring into the side of his head. He bit his lip, chancing a look up at the girls who were struggling not to laugh at him. 

 

“Sorry.” Merlin said quietly, clearing his throat and sitting back in his chair.

 

“No you’re not.” Annis chuckled quietly. 

 

Arthur and Gwen retired and Annis followed shortly after, with Merlin teasing the girls as he walked behind them. They each tossed a grape at him and he caught all of them in his mouth offering them a small bow as they cheered before preparing to retire to their rooms as well. 

 

“Wish I had Princesses falling over me like that.” Merlin heard Gwaine mutter as they reached the end of the table.

 

“Not everyone can have my charm.” Merlin teased, before hurrying by when Gwaine choked on his drink, causing the girls to giggle some more before they were in the corridor. 

 

Morning came early, granted, Merlin was up with the sun again, his nerves not allowing him to sleep much. Bregdan came in with a tray of breakfast which they quickly ate before heading for the training grounds together, meeting the other knights along the way who roughhoused with Merlin all the way, laughing and smiling, drawing a lot of curious and annoyed glances.

 

“You all are way too cheerful this early in the morning.” Elyan complained, when they reached the edge of the grounds.

 

“We blame him.” Sir Corden said, nodding at Merlin. “He’s always an early riser and if we aren’t awake by the time we get to the field he dumps water on all of us.”

 

“At least he never pantsed you.” Sir Eret complained.

 

“It was one time.” Merlin whined, ducking when Eret swiped a hand at him. “Guess you’ll not stay out so late trying to get Jenna’s attention on a night before training.” 

 

“Jenna, eh?” Bregdan said, chuckling. “Have you ever even talked to the girl yet, Eret?”

 

“Once.” Eret admitted blushing. “If this twat would stop wooing every woman in sight with his charisma and singing, I’d have a better chance.” Merlin cracked up laughing, sprinting away when Eret chased him a few steps before stopping. 

 

“Training is over here, my lord.” Leon said with a sigh, as he passed Merlin by and headed for the front of the gathered group. Merlin groaned and went back, standing by Bregdan and Corden. “Alright, men.”

 

“And women.” Elyse and Margo grumbled from their places, startling the Camelot knights when they realized there were women knights present.

 

“Apologies. Knights.” He corrected, and they nodded their approval.

 

“Yeah, knights.” Merlin said, leaning toward the women who tossed their water skins at him, laughing when they landed at Leon’s feet, before regaining their composure.

 

“We’re going to break into pairs to practice. Unless you want to spar full speed for disarming?” Leon said, rubbing his temple, looking at Bregdan, who looked at Merlin. 

 

“Full speed.” Merlin agreed, grinning crookedly. “Perhaps the famed knights of Camelot care to take their chance against us.”

 

“As long as there are no grudges or hurt feelings before the wedding.” Leon agreed. “Alright. Shall I pair you up, or have you someone in mind?”

 

“I want a go at the big fellow. What’d you say his name was?” Bregdan looked at Merlin, surprising Leon.

 

“That’s Percival.”

 

“Him. Sir Percival. Been a while since I had a good spar with a big bloke.” Bregdan said, happily. 

 

“Fine. Pair off. You? You're with me.” Leon said, pointing his sword at Merlin, looking irritated and slightly angry, though he was hiding it well.

 

“Fuck, why?” Merlin whined, shoving Corden who was snickering while going to spar with Elyan.

 

He stomped over to Leon, ignoring the snickering from his fellow Gwynnedd knights and pulled his sword out. 

 

“How is it,” Leon asked as he swung at Merlin who deflected him easily enough, “you know Percival’s name?”

 

“Percival, Elyan, Gwaine, Leon,” Merlin chanted as he struck out at Leon driving him back, “I even knew Lancelot and Arthur. Camelot was once my home.”

 

He blocked Leon’s attack and dodged a feint, rolling to the side and thrusting out, knocking Leon’s blade away from his body, but not out of his hand. 

 

“Have we met?” Leon growled, struggling to hold his defense.

 

“You could say that.” Merlin nodded, attacking and not leaving room for Leon to do much more than defend himself.

 

“I’d remember if I fought you before.” Leon grunted, shoving Merlin back a few steps, before they were circling each other again.

 

“We never fought, no. You won’t recognize me that way, not that I look the same as back then, nor carry myself the same.” Merlin said through gritted teeth.

 

“Lord Ambrosius, quit toying with him, we have council to attend.” Annis yelled. Merlin sighed and quickly disarmed Leon, who was watching him in stunned silence. 

 

“Sorry about that. Wanted to get the measure of you, but it looks like I have to go. Perhaps we can do this again.” Merlin picked up Leon’s sword and tossed it to him before sheathing his own and making his way to Annis.

 

“You were stalling.” She said firmly.

 

“I was.” Merlin nodded, walking behind her as she stepped back toward the castle. 

 

“We’re not here to gauge the defenses of our allies, need I remind you?”

 

“Apologies. Was hoping to fight Elyan, but Leon called me out, trying to figure out why I know them but he can’t remember me.”

 

“Hm. Accepted for the time being. Don’t let me catch you doing it again.”

 

“Yes, your highness.” Merlin sighed. “Why didn’t you call for Bregdan as well?”

 

“He hasn’t had a good spar in a while. It looked like he was having a good time, so I figured I’d let him be for a bit longer. He’ll join us as soon as he’s done.”

 

“Alright.” Merlin accepted. “I take it the council is to discuss treaty renegotiation?”

 

“Astute observation.” She teased, and Merlin chuckled. 

 

When they entered the council chamber, Merlin held out her chair for her and stood behind her until she glared at him. He sighed and took the seat beside her, causing the other councilmen to watch them in confusion. Arthur was at the side of the room talking quietly with Gaius, who did not look happy, but kept his face as stoic as he could. 

 

“Thank you for joining us, your highness.” Arthur said, finally coming over and taking his seat, while Gaius took his, looking at his hands before looking up and meeting Merlin’s eyes, his jaw dropping for a moment before snapping shut. Merlin winked at him and put a finger to his lips to indicate they could talk later. “I know this is not what you came for, but I figured if you were already here, we might as well talk it out. I’ve been going through some of our older records of treaties signed between my father and Gwynnedd and had a few questions.”

 

“Such as?” She encouraged, raising an eyebrow at him expectantly.

 

“Such as the fact that you had addendums written at the bottom in your own tongue that allow you to continue ruling over citizens with magic the same as you’ve always done, countering the agreement drawn up that states, as an ally of Camelot, you will execute them or banish them.”

 

“And?” Annis asked, waiting for Arthur to make his point.

 

“And, your addendum essentially voids out the conditions of the treaty my father had drawn up. Why sign at all if you were going to continue doing what you wanted with people who have magic?”

 

“So in order to have a treaty of any kind with Camelot, Camelot has to be able to have a say in other kingdom’s laws?” Merlin asked irritatedly. “If every King or Queen who signed treaties with Camelot followed Camelot’s laws, then what is the point of them running their own kingdoms?”

 

“Your father was overstepping in the governing of the other kingdoms in his drive to end magic in Camelot.” Annis said, putting a hand on Merlin’s arm. “The treaty between our kingdoms was for Camelot’s benefit, not ours. I gain little by allowing your men to pass through our borders when needed for trade routes. I signed because Camelot would make a strong ally to have in times of war.”

 

“Do you condone magic?” Arthur asked through gritted teeth.

 

“I have strict laws in place in regards to magic and how it can be used. As well as a council member who assists me in any magical crimes committed. I will not execute my people simply for a practice that your father banned.”

 

“Besides, all those people with magic leaving Camelot had to go somewhere.” Merlin added. “If all the nomadic Druid tribes, a majority of which have magic, wished to live in peace and not be hunted to extinction, then they could move into another kingdom. Magic isn’t banned in Essetir, nor Gwynnedd, nor Gawant, or Nemeth. It wasn’t banned in Tir Mor nor Daobeth or Elmet. Several of those kingdoms have not had any trouble with their magical citizens. Besides, banning magic is akin to banning royalty or nobility. People can’t choose to be born a prince or princess or lady, or whoever. Just as they can’t choose to be born with magic or not. They either are or they aren’t.”

 

“People aren’t born with magic.” Arthur growled.

 

“So your father killed children because he wanted to?” Merlin asked, staring at the King. “He knew how magic manifested, as magic was in Camelot before he invaded and claimed the throne.” Annis stood up, ending the stare down. 

 

“If this kingdom is so ignorant in the people of this land, I’m unsure I want to discuss further treaties. I have some things I need to discuss with Lord Ambrosius, but I’ll return shortly.” She strode out of the room, gesturing Merlin to follow, which he did.

 

They didn’t speak all the way to Annis’ room, until the door was closed behind him, and she started chuckling.

 

“How much do you think he’ll pester his physician now that we’re gone?” She asked, striding across the room and getting a drink of water.

 

“I expect he’ll yell a lot at his council. Several of them were there when Uther made his original laws banning magic.” Merlin shrugged.

 

“I honestly thought that at least one of Arthur’s tutors would have done a better job teaching him about magic if he’s meant to uphold laws that ban it’s presence in his borders.”

 

“Aye. I could never figure out why he seemed to know so little about it.” Merlin hummed. He stumbled forward when the door opened and bumped his back as Bregdan joined them, rolling his eyes at Merlin.

 

“Three minutes.” Bregdan complained. “Was a good fight, though. I’d like to give it another go before we depart. So. What have I missed?”

 

Annis allowed Merlin to fill him in, while she leaned against the wall by the window, watching the knights train.

 

“Sounds right.” Bregdan nodded. “Should we return, then?”

 

“Aye. Probably best.” Merlin grumbled.

 

“Bregdan, you’ll sit with me this time. Merlin, you’ll stand guard at my back.” Annis agreed, striding gracefully out of the room, both men following. When she reentered the room, this time with her additional knight, the room was silent. “My apologies, King Arthur. Now that I have Sir Bregdan, we can continue.”

 

They talked for a while about the remaining portions of the treaty, avoiding the magic ban requirement that Camelot always tried to enforce. When council was over, Merlin was planning to go get some more training in, to burn off some of his energy. 

 

“Lord Ambrosius?” Gaius called, standing outside the council chambers. “I wonder if I might have a word?”

 

“Be at the training ground in an hour.” Annis informed him before striding off, and Merlin walked the corridors to Gaius’ rooms in silence with him. Once the door was closed behind them, Gaius hugged him tightly.

 

“Gods you’re a lot stronger than I remember.” Merlin gasped as he let go. 

 

“What is going on, Merlin?” Gaius demanded, his hands on his hips.

 

“Nothing?” Merlin frowned. “I’m here with Queen Annis as one of her nobles as well as a knight.”

 

“Let me rephrase.” Gaius said, taking a deep breath. “What happened? All I know is I was attending a birth and come back to the castle in the morning to find Arthur in a foul mood stomping around shouting for you.”

 

“So he either doesn’t remember what he said to me to cause me to leave, or he chose not to tell you, knowing you’d be disappointed in him.” Merlin said thoughtfully. “Doesn’t matter, though. I left because Arthur came back to his room one night, drunk out of his mind, threw a goblet at my head, hit me, and yelled at me for not telling him I had magic nor what I was supposedly trying to get from living in Camelot.”

 

“And Agravaine?”

 

“Agravaine followed me to the woods and tried to kill me. Left me this,” Merlin touched the scar on his cheek, “before I killed him. If he’d have just left me alone and let me leave peacefully I wouldn’t have done it. I’d have let him continue working for Morgana to whatever ends. Annis accepted me when I treated her knights who were injured on a patrol. Had me finish training her young healers, trained me as a knight and found my father’s old estate, which is in her kingdom. Where I was meant to grow up, I imagine. I like where I’m at now. I like my life. I’m not coming back.”

 

“I don’t expect you to, my boy.” Gaius said gently, hugging him again. “I’m sorry I wasn’t there for you.”

 

“You were the only one in all of Camelot that was there for me, Gaius.”

 

“The knights all wanted to go look for you, but when a patrol found Agravaine, Arthur was furious and put out a warrant for your arrest.”

 

“I heard.” Merlin grumbled. 

 

“Enough of that now.” Gaius said, going over to his bench and pulling out a few books. “Tell me, have you come across any new medical developments in your travels?”

 

They spent the better part of their hour together discussing remedies that Merlin had improved on, before walking to the training ground. Merlin was explaining a new stitching technique he’d found that worked better than what they usually use, when Leon approached them.

 

“King Arthur has requested a spar with you, Lord Ambrosius.” 

 

“Should he be sparring when he’s getting married tomorrow?” Merlin asked, his brow furrowed.

 

“I tried to talk him out of it, but he heard how you disarmed me this morning and wants to test you himself.”

 

“Fine. I’ll not injure him.”

 

“You most certainly will not.” Annis agreed, approaching them. “But you will also remember our earlier conversation.”

 

“Yes, your highness.” Merlin sighed, following Leon to the center of the field where Arthur waited.

 

“Just a reminder that magic is still illegal in Camelot and the use of it during a spar will-” Arthur said pompously.

 

“End in my arrest or execution.” Merlin grumbled. “Understood.”

 

“Ready?” Leon asked, looking between them, as they each unsheathed their swords. “Begin!” Leon barely ducked away when Arthur was charging at Merlin. 

 

Merlin growled and met each blow expertly and began his own assault. He would not let Arthur get the better of him. He knew how Arthur fought, which only put him at a slight advantage, because Arthur was very good at reading people during battles. It’s part of what made him such a great swordsman and strategist. But Merlin had a years worth of training under him from extreme circumstances with swordsmen and women as good as the King of Camelot. They managed to end in a draw, both breathing heavily, sweat coating their faces, sticking their hair to their foreheads. Merlin’s had started curling more than usual.

 

“Well done.” Arthur conceded, reaching an arm out to shake Merlin’s. 

 

“You as well.” Merlin agreed, giving him a slight bow before walking toward Annis and the Princesses. He accepted the water that Elena handed him, and the cloth that Vivian wiped his face with. 

 

“That was an amazing fight.” Mithian said, smiling at him proudly. 

 

“You did well.” Annis agreed. She was watching something over his shoulder, and he tensed, knowing that the King and his closest knights were coming over.

 

“I’ve never fought someone so skilled.” Arthur admitted. “Leon said that you were once in Camelot. Perhaps you trained here?”

 

“No, I never trained as a knight or swordsman in Camelot.” Merlin said, still not turning around.

 

“Perhaps a squire, then?” Percival asked.

 

“No.” Merlin shook his head.

 

“Then how is it you know us?” Elyan asked curiously.

 

“I once stood with you all, taking back the castle from Morgana when she crowned herself Queen. But that was another life. I no longer care about Morgana nor Camelot. I’ve a new home and life and do not care to remember the past.”

 

“My men brought him before me after he treated their injuries.” Annis said, stepping to Merlin’s back and keeping him behind her. “He offered to teach my physician apprentices so they could return to their villages as well as prepare my new court physician for her role. The people all over the kingdom have grown fond of him.”

 

“You trained as a physician.” Arthur said quietly, and Merlin heard him draw his sword, but it was copied by the knights of Gwynnedd that had surrounded him. The Princesses each had their hands on their hidden daggers. “Merlin.” Arthur snarled his name, and Merlin finally turned around, equally as angry as Arthur, meeting his eyes.

 

“Not anymore.” Merlin snarled. “Not since you accused me of having some sort of vendetta and hit me. Not since you decided I didn’t matter compared to your precious Uncle who was working with Morgana. Not since Agravaine followed me to the woods while I was leaving and tried to kill me. This,” Merlin touched his scar, “this is what he gave me to remember him by. You made your choice, your highness. And I made mine. I’m only here now because my Queen asked me to accompany her.”

 

“Still spewing lies about my Uncle.” Arthur snarled, and Annis stepped forward, fury written across her face.

 

“You arrogant fool.” She said lowly, drawing Arthur’s attention away from Merlin. “Perhaps it was unwise for me to think that you could see reason, regardless of familial ties. Lord Ambrosius is under my protection. If you wish to summon him for a trial, then it should wait until after your wedding.”

 

“Merlin is not a noble.” Arthur said, nearly growling.

 

“His father was.” Annis corrected. “As he is his only son, he is now lord of the estate, along with his mother. Had I known that his father was in hiding, I’d have sent my best men to protect him and bring him and his family back. You will not accuse one of my men of something you have no proof wasn’t self defense.”

 

“He killed my Uncle.” Arthur argued, and Annis narrowed her eyes.

 

“Yes.” She snarled. “The same man who convinced you to kill my husband.”

 

Arthur stepped back as if he’d been slapped; stunned at the venom in her words, and perhaps the truth, too. 

 

“We came to support you for the Queen you have chosen, but we will leave if you prefer to hold on to the past and not attempt to understand what actions led to one of your most faithful supporters abandoning you.” Mithian said firmly.

 

“If it were not for Merlin,” Vivian added, scowling at Arthur, “you and I, or even you and Elena, would have been unhappily married by now. Maybe even still enchanted.”

 

“Perhaps,” Elena said, holding her head up high, “we were mistaken with thinking that Camelot is the one we should ally ourselves with. If faithful servants and protectors are treated so, what assures us that you wouldn’t do the same to us?”

 

“We’re retiring for the night. If you wish us to stay for the wedding, you will leave us be, or we will depart before first light tomorrow. Once the ceremony is over, you will have the time you need to reevaluate where Camelot stands amongst the alliance of kingdoms in Albion.” Annis snarled, turning away from Arthur and pulling Merlin along with her, the knights and Princesses, blocking the way in case anyone from Camelot, other than Gaius, attempted to pursue them.

 

Annis did not let go of Merlin until they were inside his room, where Bregdan stood by the door, directing Corden and Eret to guard the outside. 

 

“I told you I shouldn’t have come.” Merlin said morosely, wiping a tired hand over his face. He took off his sword and armor and tossed them on his bed.

 

“And I told you I needed you here.” Annis glowered.

 

“Take a bath, Merlin.” Bregdan stated, nodding toward the screen. “You need to relax and get cleaned up after training today and be ready for tomorrow.”

 

“I should stay in here for the ceremony. He obviously still doesn’t want me to be a part of it.” Merlin sighed, going behind the screen and tossing his clothes over the top.

 

“Who do you serve?” Annis asked angrily, and Merlin bit his lip, dipping his head as he settled into the bath, warming it with a quick spell.

 

“You, my Queen.” Merlin said firmly.

 

“Then you will be at my side tomorrow. When it is over, we will depart.”

 

“Yes, highness.” Merlin accepted.

 

“I know you do not wish to see him, to see many of those you left behind.” She said more gently. “But you are not here for them.”

 

“You’re right. I apologize that I let my doubts affect me. I’ll be wherever you need me. I swear.”

 

“Good.” She replied, sighing and heading for the door. “No one outside of our party is allowed in without speaking to me first.” She instructed Bregdan.

 

“Of course, highness.” Merlin heard the door open and close and Bregdan’s steps approached his bath.

 

“Stop moping, Merlin.” He chided.

 

“Not moping.” Merlin argued. “Just irritated. Knew the first thing he’d do is accuse me, but hoped he’d actually looked into why his Uncle was found dead in the woods without anyone else around. Whatever. He made his choice. He can fuck right off.”

 

“That’s the spirit.” Bregdan chuckled, and Merlin grinned. “The girls want to sup with you this evening, so be prepared for their fussing.”

 

“Ugh.” Merlin groaned. “It’s my own fault for befriending them, I s’pose.”

 

Merlin finished his bath and dressed quickly, knowing the princesses would be along just as the food arrived. Gaius even came by and joined them, chatting amicably with them all, asking after their health. Bregdan surprised Merlin with a new lute even though Merlin hadn’t actually fought Elyan like he was supposed to. 

 

Merlin was in the middle of a song after dinner, when there was a knock on his door and Eret announced that he had visitors. Bregdan opened the door and asked if they’d spoken with Annis, and when he had confirmation from Eret and Corden that they had, he allowed Gwen, Gwaine, Percival, Elyan, and Leon inside. Merlin frowned.

 

“We wondered if we might have a word?” Gwen said cautiously. “Only if you aren’t busy, we don’t wish to interrupt your evening.”

 

“Merlin was only singing us a few songs for our dessert.” Vivian said, winking at Merlin. “By all means, if Queen Annis allowed you in, then she knows you’re not a danger or threat.”

 

“Well, take a seat, I guess.” Merlin said, waving toward the empty chairs around the table, and retaking his own seat between Mithian and Elena, still absently strumming.

 

“My mother wrote to me, as did my sister.” Gwaine said, watching Merlin for a reaction.

 

“Did they now?” Merlin hummed.

 

“Aye. Said they were awarded a fine sum and given the old manor back. Don’t suppose you had anything to do with that?”

 

“Might have done.” Merlin shrugged. 

 

“You didn’t have to, but thank you. It’s good to know they’re being taken care of.”

 

“Annis is a good Queen.” Merlin said, pausing in his strumming. “She was right pissed that she could have had more fine knights or soldiers had her late father-in-law not been such an arse.” Gwaine laughed, and Merlin grinned.

 

“Still. Thank you, Merlin.”

 

“You’re welcome.” 

 

“Did the King really hit you?” Percival asked quietly, and Merlin sighed, setting his lute down beside his chair.

 

“Aye. Backhanded me pretty good. Still got a bit of a knot on my cheek where his ring caught me. Didn’t break skin, but still left a mark. I hadn’t seen him that angry in a long while, if I’m being honest. Could have been the drink, could have been him figuring out my secret, could have been Agravaine whispering in his ear all day. Hard to tell. But I was done letting what was best for him rule my life. I gave up a lot to stay, to be his servant, but that wasn’t how he saw it.”

 

“You sound different.” Gwen said softly.

 

“Decided I’m done trying to fit in by talking how ever’one else does. Tired of hiding bits of myself so I’m more accepted. People will either like me or not, but I’m done trying to be what they want me to be just for their benefit and my own detriment.”

 

“Why did you never tell anyone?” Leon asked, his brow furrowed in confusion. “About your suspicions of Agravaine and Morgana?”

 

“Gaius knew. But aside from him … nothing I could say mattered.” Merlin shrugged. “After our patrol through the Valley of Fallen Kings was ambushed and Arthur and I got separated, Agravaine led the bandits, who dragged me along, to Morgana. She got a bit of fun in before using a Fomorrah to try and get me to kill the King.”

 

“‘Bit of fun’, he says.” Gaius scoffed. “She tortured him.”

 

“Same same.” Merlin waved his hand as if it didn’t matter. Because it didn’t anymore, not to him. “Anyway, Gaius and Gwen figured it out, made the snake dormant so I could go back and destroy the main body of it and break its hold over me. Between that, and Caerleon, and what happened with Gaius, I finally saw that he was determined to not see anything bad in Agravaine. He could defend Agravaine when I told him that he was setting Gaius up, but I couldn’t defend my guardian, who had been in service of Camelot since before Arthur was even born. If Gaius didn’t matter, then I obviously didn’t either. I never contacted you all when I left because I figured Arthur would have announced that he’d discovered I had magic and was to be killed on sight, let alone after I killed Agravaine.”

 

“That’s why the lamia didn’t affect you.” Gwen said, nodding her head in understanding. “Because you had magic.”

 

“Aye.” 

 

“Oh.” Gwaine said, blinking as if the realization was new to him.

 

“‘Oh’, what?” Merlin asked, confused about his reaction.

 

“Well, it’s just, we thought it was because you fancied men, not because you had magic.” He admitted.

 

“Don’t have a preference.” Merlin shrugged. “But magical creatures don’t often affect me like they affect others.”

 

“No.” Mithian said firmly, pointing a finger at Vivian who scowled back at her.

 

“But-” Vivian said, looking ready to argue.

 

“No. We talked about this already between the three of us.” Mithian repeated.

 

“Fine.” Vivian grumbled and slumped down in her seat.

 

“What?” Merlin asked, looking between them in confusion.

 

“Don’t worry your pretty little head about it, Merlin.” Elena teased. “Just something between us girls.”

 

“Don’t want to know then.” Merlin said, shaking his head. “What else?”

 

“Can we come see your estate?” Elyan asked, leaning forward. “Come for a visit? As friends?”

 

“‘Spose.” Merlin shrugged. “I’m sure mother wouldn’t mind seeing Gwen again, if she’s able to come, but doubt she’d accept Arthur, knowing why I left. Least not without shouting at him a bit.”

 

“Gods but I’d love to see that.” Bregdan said wistfully.

 

“Stop pining after my mother, Breg.” Merlin frowned pointing at him.

 

“Easier said than done, lad. She’s a remarkable woman, Hunith.” Bregdan said with an exaggerated sigh, that had even Gwen giggling with the other Princesses.

 

“Ugh. Just keep your weird courting away from me.” Merlin said, shimmying his shoulders in faux revulsion.

 

“How is Hunith?” Gwen asked, smiling gently at Merlin.

 

“She’s good. Got the land cleared up, mostly, so she should be planting soon, getting her garden going. She’s got a good staff hired to help her out, and they’ve all taken to treating me like a child again. Making sure I’m wearing the right cloak outside, that I don’t tear up my special occasion boots because I wore them to clear out the courtyard, constantly shoving food at me saying I’m too skinny.” Merlin whined, but Gwen laughed brightly.

 

“So she hasn’t changed any. I’m glad she has help looking after you, now. I have no idea how she did it on her own when you were little.” Gwen said, wiping at her eyes as her laughter died down.

 

“We managed.” Merlin said proudly. “You all better get going, though. Have a wedding to attend  first thing tomorrow. And these three will be fussing over my appearance as much as your maids will be fussing over yours, highness.” Merlin pointed between the Princesses and Gwen.

 

“If your hair wasn’t such a mess, it wouldn’t be a problem.” Elena chuckled. “You haven’t even been riding dragons recently for it to be so ridiculous!”

 

“Right?!” Mithian exclaimed. “It’s almost worse when he isn’t running around after them or flying off wherever they go.”

 

“Surely there’s something we can come up with to tame it.” Vivian agreed looking thoughtful, while Merlin groaned, dropping his head back as everyone else laughed at his expense. 

 

“Before we go,” Leon said, standing up and pulling Gwen’s chair out for her, “do you think, in future, we’d be able to work out some sort of knight exchange? Send a few of our men to you to train for a bit? Your fighters are all very skilled, and something tells me they know more about fighting magic than we do.”

 

“If Camelot and Gwynnedd are still allies when we depart, I can bring it up with the Queen. I doubt she’ll let Merlin train with anyone from Camelot until she can be assured of his safety from the King.” Sir Bregdan said with a hint of warning in his voice. 

 

“I’m sure we can work on that.” Gwaine said certainly. “I always wondered why Agravaine was found in the woods that morning, what he had been doing out there, but it was never investigated.”

 

“We’ll take care of this end.” Gwen said confidently. “And we will reach out when we have come to an arrangement that would benefit us all.”

 

“Spoken like a true Queen already.” Merlin teased, chuckling when she swatted at his arm. 

 

“Shut up and give me a hug before I leave.” She said sternly. Merlin rolled his eyes but gave her a hug. She squeezed him hard and he grunted at her strength.

 

“See you’ve been in the forges again.” He teased, rubbing his ribs as if she’d bruised them.

 

“I’m going to be Queen, I can do what I want.” She sniffed, and Merlin laughed, before he was pulled in for a hug by Percival, then passed to Elyan, then Gwaine, then even Leon hugged him.

 

“Yes, yes, you all missed me. Now go away.” Merlin complained, waving them out the door, their laughter echoing loudly, before it was just him and Bregdan again.

 

“You handled that well.” Bregdan said approvingly.

 

“My issues weren’t with any of them, mostly just Arthur.” Merlin admitted, stretching a bit.

 

“Aye, makes sense.” Bregdan hummed. “Well, get some sleep. The knights will be at your door all night, but will swap every few hours. No one should be in aside from me, the Queen, or the Princesses.”

 

“Works for me. See you in the morning.” Merlin waved him out the door and grabbed his lute once more before flopping back on his bed. He hummed a few tunes before his eyes grew heavy and he fell asleep.

 

When he was awoken in the morning by three Princesses digging through his clothes and chattering away, he really considered hexing them for a moment. When he dragged himself out of bed and was eating breakfast, Vivian held up a vial and grinned at him.

 

“What is that?” He questioned, eyeing it with suspicion. 

 

“This is a hair potion.” She said gleefully. “Soon to be Queen Guinevere gave it to me this morning saying it would probably do wonders for you.”

 

“If it makes my hair fall out, I’m blaming you.” Merlin grumbled as she bounced excitedly before unstoppering it and pouring a small amount into her hands. Elena had wet his hair down while Vivian was explaining it and moved aside so she could run it through his longer hair as it started to curl more prettily, in their words. When she was done, Mithian forced him behind the screen to change. The girls were already dressed for the wedding, and determined that he looked immaculate as well. Once he was changed, they brushed his clothes and adjusted his belt, shifting his cape into place, and tousled his hair a bit more. 

 

“He looks perfect.” Vivian said happily, Elena and Mithian nodding along.

 

“Good.” Annis said from the door. “Because it is time for us to enter the hall.” Merlin walked quickly over to her, hoping to get away from the fussing as quickly as he could. However, when they entered the hall, the other knights reached over and each found something to adjust. No amount of frowning deterred them, and when he glanced at the Camelot side, he saw his friends fighting not to laugh at his expression.

 

When Arthur entered, they all bowed their heads respectfully. Arthur’s hardened expression softened when Gwen came in, looking exceptional in her vibrant purple dress, with elegant embroidery and the same jewels that Arthur’s mother had worn for her wedding to Uther.

 

Once the ceremony was over, and they relocated to the massive ballroom, speeches were given and cheering and toasts were done, music played while food was brought out. Eventually Arthur and Gwen retired to renewed cheering before everyone went back to their conversations. Well, nearly everyone. Corden and Eret, along with Elyse, picked Merlin up and dropped him in the middle of the room, shoving his new lute in his hands. 

 

“Fine.” He muttered, rolling his eyes. “How clean do I need to keep this?” He asked, and there were several shouts that he couldn’t make out, but had him smiling and chuckling. “Alright. Good to know.” He began strumming and sang out several different songs that either had people cheering and singing along or dancing around the room. 

 

The night was short, but he had all his things packed up and on the front steps bright and early, along with the rest of the Gwynnedd party. Gwen was alone on the steps to see them off, looking happy, if a little annoyed. Apparently Arthur had been summoned by the council quite early and was forced to attend them, as opposed to waving off a visiting foreign royal.

 

When they arrived back at the castle in Caerleon, Merlin was jumped by Aithusa, who weighed enough to be able to knock him over now. He stayed for a few days before returning to his home where his mother was waiting patiently. She rolled her eyes when she spotted Aithusa perched on his saddle. Somehow, in the time he’d been gone, a small encampment that was steadily turning into a village appeared outside his gates.

 

“They just showed up about two days after you left for the capitol.” Hunith said, a little bewildered. “Most of them are Druids, but some are just families of the people I hired. Asked if they could build up around the walls, and I didn’t see any problem with it. But it seems you now have a village to care for instead of just an estate.”

 

“Wonderful.” Merlin sighed, rubbing his eyes. “Ah well. Should probably see if they need a hand or anything.”

 

“You do that, love.” She kissed his cheek and sent him out through the gate once more on foot.

 

Many of the nomadic people had once lived in Camelot and wished to take up a more permanent residence, wanting a place to call home. So he helped them build what needed building and his mother helped them with their small herb gardens they were planting. After a month, there were nearly a hundred people living in a small village just outside his gates. Someone had put up a sign that said ‘Merlin Township’. He frowned, but no amount of frowning or grumbling got them to change the name. He relented when they threatened to call it Emrys.

 

Sir Bregdan continued to make weekly visits to his home, and now his town, laughing each time he came by as it expanded. On one of his visits, nearly two months after the wedding, he told Merlin he had to come to Caerleon for business for the Queen. After ensuring that his mother would be fine, he donned his knight attire and headed back to see Queen Annis. She watched him with amusement in her eyes when he entered the court.

 

“Lord Ambrosius, nice of you to finally remember you are still an active knight.”

 

“Many apologies, highness. There was a, er, new development on my estate while I was gone and it has taken some time to sort out.” He said as he bowed.

 

“So I heard. Seems there is a new town in my kingdom.”

 

“Aye.” Merlin sighed heavily.

 

“With a new town comes new responsibilities, not just for the Lord or Lady who oversees it, but for the people as well. I trust you understand this?”

 

“Aye. Was planning to convene a council within the town and discuss the laws and expectations of their living there, as well as what that means for those coming of age to be knights or soldiers.”

 

“Hmm. I’d like to plan a visit for myself to greet the town leaders.”

 

“Aye. We can do that. There’s a meeting set for the heads of houses and businesses to come to the estate in two days to elect the positions. Any assistance, at this point, would be greatly appreciated.”

 

“How greatly?” She asked, a single eyebrow quirked up.

 

“If it’s a task within my power to accomplish, I’d take it up. We don’t have much to give elsewise aside from our first run of mulled wine and cider that we’re expecting in the fall.”

 

“I have a task I need handled, that I believe is within your power. But I would also take a few bottles of your first batch and I’ll waive the taxes you’d owe, once your settlement is prospering, for the first year.”

 

“Aye. That’s acceptable.” Merlin agreed. “What task does my Queen require?”

 

“I’ll get to that. Firstly, I’m hosting a summit with Camelot in the coming weeks, and the Princesses are requesting to stay and attend as well. However I do not have room for the court of Camelot and the Princesses within my castle without putting some of my people out of a bed. Your estate is spacious, is it not?”

 

“I’ve got rooms. Could probably house about a dozen guests and a half dozen servants and knights. Not including what the inn could house. It was nearly complete when I left, and they have another dozen rooms.”

 

“Wonderful. I’d like to move the Princesses and their maids and guards to your estate while the King and Queen are here.”

 

“Did they make that request?” Merlin asked, narrowing his eyes in suspicion.

 

“What matters is that I am making the request.” She countered defiantly. 

 

“Fine. Aye, they can come.” Merlin jumped when the three women in question burst into the room squealing in delight and hugging him tightly. “Yes, yes, I get it, you’re all bloody excited, now calm down.”

 

“Some of the knights of Camelot have also offered to stay at your estate so as to not put my men stationed here out of a home.”

 

“Of course they have.” Merlin grumbled. “I should be able to fit them all in the estate, but if Gwaine burns down our tavern or drinks all my stores, I’ll have compensation from the crown of Camelot for it.”

 

“Noted and accepted.” Annis chuckled before standing. “The girls are already packed, and will depart with us in the morning to your home. Until then, let’s head down to train for a bit and we can discuss the second task I’ll be asking of you at dinner.”

 

“Yes, your highness.” Merlin agreed, giving her another small bow and following, the Princesses trailing them. Merlin shot a glare at Bregdan, who barely covered his laugh as he followed behind them.

 

Training went well enough; the knights with magic were doing well with their shields and fighting at the same time. But they were having trouble holding the shield while casting any additional spells, which Merlin had trouble comprehending. At dinner, Annis finally voiced her task.

 

“Let me get this straight,” Merlin said, setting his fork down, “you want me to locate Morgana, and lure her into a fight, but instead of a fight you want me to trap her magic and hand her over to King Arthur as an act of goodwill toward them, correct?”

 

“In essence, yes. That is what I want.”

 

“Hm. I know I can locate her, and I know ways that can block her magic. But they aren’t permanent. They might incapacitate her as far as casting spells goes, but it would only work for a few days, I think.”

 

“A few days should be all we need.” Annis said certainly.

 

“If you’re accompanying me back to my home, I can do it there. I’ve got a work room set up for scrying and whatnot. Has all my magic books, physician books, and tools in it. Should take less than an hour to locate her, if she’s not actively blocking seeking spells. I’ll locate her, then scry her and see what she’s doing. If she’s not in Albion anymore, will you still have me try and bring her here?”

 

“No. If she has left Albion, and you cannot see her attempting to return with any sort of war force, then the plan will change to find a way of blocking her return.”

 

“I … I think that could be doable. My mother can give you all a tour of the estate and the town while I dig into my books for what I need.”

 

“Perfect. Let us retire for the night so we can be well rested.”

 

“Aye. Well rested. Always wondered what that felt like.” Vivian snorted, and then looked surprised that she made such a noise, causing Elena and Mithian to snicker. Even Merlin couldn’t help smiling at her startled expression.

 

Hunith welcomed them all warmly and shooed Merlin away to his work room when he told her the plan, guiding the others through the gates and into the town. Merlin was still in a bit of shock that he was responsible for a town, but he was determined to complete the task that Annis requested to save his people a year of paying taxes. 

 

He had several books spread out over a few tables that were near a wall that he had a very large map of Albion and the various lands that created it. The spell he intended to use was meant to only cover a few miles, but Merlin tweaked it so that it would expand his map to show wherever Morgana was, whether she was nearby or not. He held up a gem, a ruby, that would stick to his map, indicating where she was. When he chanted his spell, the air felt charged with electricity as his magic swarmed around him determined to do his bidding. 

 

The gem stuck to the map in Amata, which was strange, since Amata was a kingdom strongly against any form of magic and the King took pleasure in putting those with magic to slow, torturous deaths. He focused on his crystal next, one that a Druid had gifted him with from the Crystal Cave and thought only of Morgana, not wanting to see any future events. 

 

It was extremely dark, wherever she was. Suddenly, light spilled over her from above and Merlin adjusted his view to see a man laughing at her situation. She was chained with iron cuffs above her head in what appeared to be the bottom of a dried out well, with barely any room to straighten her legs. Her dress was torn and her hair was a matted mess. 

 

He tried to pull back, having accomplished the first part of his task, but the crystal did not let him go. He strained against it, but visions flashed by of Morgana gathering followers and meeting Arthur in battle, then switched to Morgana standing peacefully overlooking the sea from a cliffside. The visions were contradicting, fighting, almost, as if wanting him to choose which would occur. They swirled together until he collapsed on the floor breathing heavily, unable to hear whoever had come in and was trying to talk to him.

 

He tried to stand up, only to fall forward once more. Someone with strong arms caught him and carefully sat him back in a chair while he tried to see the room he knew he was in instead of the visions that were still swimming in his mind. There was a gentle touch to his head, a whispered word, and his mind cleared, the pressure receding. He opened his eyes to see one of his healers, Gita, standing beside him worriedly. 

 

“Thanks.” His hoarse voice rasped, accepting the cup of water offered.

 

“Are you alright?” She asked concernedly, holding his face and studying his eyes, frowning. “Your eyes are still gold.”

 

“It’ll pass.” Merlin assured her. “Bigger spells tend to linger a bit. It’ll settle, I promise. Just give me a few minutes to process.”

 

“Are we going to have to assign a guard to keep watch on you while you practice magic, Merlin?” Bregdan asked disappointedly.

 

“No. Well,” Merlin hummed, took another drink of water, “not small spells, no. Bigger spells, especially if they involve this wretched crystal, most likely. The crystals like to show me things whether it’s what I ask for or not. Haven’t quite mastered Seeing yet.”

 

“Is there no one else that has Sight that you can ask?” Bregdan asked, scowling.

 

“Not in the village, no. I’ve met very few people who actually have it, let alone have the power needed to use these crystals. Morgana has natural Sight, but, well, she’s not really an option. Finding a Vates is rare. I’ll ask around, have my people put word out. Because I really would like to not do that anymore.” Merlin groaned and grabbed the side of his head that was throbbing now.

 

“Drink this.” Gita said, putting a vial in his hand. He drank without question and the pain started to ebb. “Now go eat something. That took a lot of power and if you don’t replenish your body-”

 

“I know, my magic will start to get out of control. Yes. I’m aware. I’ll head for the kitchen then.”

 

“No, you’ll head for the dining hall where your guests are waiting anxiously to find out how you’re doing.” Bregdan corrected, helping him to his feet and steadying him when he swayed a bit. “As soon as Gita started running for the estate, your mother stopped her tour and rushed back, quickly followed by the Queen and Princesses. They arrived in time to see Gita hovering over you where you collapsed. I sent them on, and promised we’d see them when you were on your feet again.”

 

“That’s fair.” Merlin hummed, shaking out his hands and stomping his feet a bit to get the tingling to stop and encourage his magic to settle once more. He ran a hand through his hair before following Bregdan out the door and down the corridors where he was promptly pushed into a chair with a tray of stew placed in front of him. He was halfway through it when he finally looked up. He finished swallowing his bite and took a drink of water. “Erm, well, I found her.” He said finally.

 

“Perhaps you should have warned me of the after effects before you performed the spell.” Annis said coldly, but Merlin could see the concern in her eyes. 

 

“That wasn’t the spell.” Merlin shook his head. “It was the crystal. They tend to try and show me things whether I want to see them or not. I should have just found a mirror or something to see her, but I knew the crystal would make a more solid connection. It just showed me … more than I anticipated. I didn’t mean to frighten anyone. I’ve already agreed that whenever I use the crystal, in future, I’ll have someone there to make sure I don’t overdo it, or assist me if they can.”

 

“Finish eating, Merlin.” His mother said sternly, glaring at him. Merlin pursed his lips before going back to his stew.

 

“How was your tour?” He asked, once he was finished. 

 

“It was wonderful.” Mithian said, giving him a smile. “Your people are quite lovely.”

 

“And they all seem to love you already.” Elena agreed.

 

“Met a man named Gili who seemed quite interested in singing your praises.” Vivian said nonchalantly.

 

“Ah. Yeah, well I kept him out of trouble a couple years back when he came to Camelot to compete in a tournament and was using magic to cheat and win his matches. Got him out and kept him from being caught.” Merlin nodded, drinking the rest of his water, trying not to roll his eyes when one of the staff came and filled his cup up again.

 

“And Mordred in the herb shop?” Elena asked curiously.

 

“He was a Druid boy who was caught in Camelot. Uther was hunting him, but me, Morgana, Gwen, and Arthur got him out safely and sent him to another camp. I’m surprised he’s here, but he wants to earn a bit of money before trying out to be a knight in a year or so.” 

 

“And Alice? She worked in a medicine shop.” Hunith asked.

 

“She and Gaius were once engaged, apparently.” Merlin shrugged. “She was enthralled to a manticore to try and kill Uther. We killed the creature, but she had already been arrested for her attempt. Gaius was actually the one who freed her. I wasn’t overly kind toward her when I discovered the creature and no one believed me about it. I’m surprised she’s here, too, actually. Should probably let Gaius know. I’m sure he’d love to see her again.”

 

“Seems you’ve helped a lot of people over the years.” Annis said thoughtfully.

 

“S’pose so, aye. A lot of them were in the wrong place at the wrong time, or right one, depending how you look at it.”

 

“Hmm.” Annis hummed, looking at him appraisingly. “Tell me what you found about Morgana.” 

 

“She’s being held prisoner in Amata. Cold iron manacles on her wrists and ankles. I’m only guessing, but it looked like she was being held in the bottom of an old well.”

 

“And what did the crystal want to show you?”

 

“That’s the tricky bit.” Merlin sighed, leaning back. “Two possible future outcomes. Either she gets free on her own somehow and eventually leads an army against Arthur somewhere that I’ve never seen before; Arthur takes a mortal blow, but Morgana gets killed as well. The other, she gets rescued and leaves the shores of Albion to try and find peace. I saw her standing on unfamiliar white cliffs overlooking the sea.”

 

“Perhaps that is an outcome we can ensure by rescuing her.” Annis said, tapping her nails on the table as she thought. “Can you free her from this distance and summon her to you?”

 

“I’d need at least six other people to help with the spell, to ensure we anchor it correctly. And it can only be done at the new moon. If it was the solstice, or near it, we could do it when the moon is at its height, regardless if it was a new moon or not, but that’s months away still. There’s a room in our tallest tower that is designed to prevent someone from using magic that she could stay in while she healed. But … I think we should encourage King Arthur to send her away. Banish her from Albion, for her safety, as well as that of others. If, when she is healed, she refuses to let go of her vendetta, I could understand and support her execution. But I think showing this mercy will ensure a long peace amongst the kingdoms.”

 

“I’ll take it into consideration.” She conceded. 

 

“That’s all I ask.” Merlin nodded. “Oh, er, have you been shown your rooms yet?”

 

“Not yet. Would you care to escort us?” Vivian asked sweetly.

 

“Of course. It’ll be my pleasure. Bregdan, could you see if Christopher and Lucian have collected their belongings?”

 

“I’ll have them sent up.” He agreed, nodding to Merlin, bowing to Annis, and then departing. 

 

“Shall we?” Merlin asked, indicating the Princesses to follow him. Vivian looped her arm in his, Mithian doing the same on his other side, while Elena followed behind them. The rooms were smaller than in the castle, but that was expected since his home was an estate and not, in fact, a castle. As he stopped at each room, their bags and chests arrived, settled in place by the maids that Hunith had hired after they each shoved a biscuit or piece of bread at Merlin, glowering until he ate. 

 

Merlin had to start training on his grounds since he had to keep track of happenings in the town, unable to keep up with training in Caerleon as he was meant to as a knight. He was frustrated at how to be a Lord and a knight, so Annis had set Bregdan the task of sending knights on rotations to Merlin Township. He saw how amused she was every time that she said the name, no matter how much Merlin frowned at her for it. Apparently that only encouraged her. 

 

Each week, a new group of knights came to train with him. It was odd, to Merlin, how unfamiliar and familiar the whole thing felt. He would be in the training yard, townspeople would occasionally gather to watch, and there was always someone that ended up tripping in mud. At least that part wasn’t him, this time. Gili and Mordred struck up a friendship and would offer to sharpen swords on their breaks from their work and watch the training together. They practiced with the guards on occasion, not wanting to be a knight, in Gili’s case, and not old enough, in Mordred’s. 

 

He was in the middle of a spar with Bregdan when a new group arrived. Merlin couldn’t let his attention waver, because Bregdan had learned how to defend against Merlin and their matches tended to end in draws. They fought for a few more minutes, circling each other. Eventually, Bregdan used a new maneuver he’d picked up and Merlin had a sword at his throat. Unfortunately for Bregdan, Merlin had a dagger to his gut.

 

“Thought I fuckin’ had you that time.” Bregdan complained breathlessly, backing away.

 

“Fuck, me too.” Merlin said, trying to catch his breath.

 

“That was incredible.” Leon said, drawing Merlin’s attention that the Camelot knights had arrived. “I’ve never seen magic used in battle in defense.”

 

“Aye. Merlin’s shields are stronger than most others and a bitch and a half to try and wear down.” Bregdan said, thrusting his sword in the ground. “Thought you were staying near your King?”

 

“He is.” Arthur said, walking up behind Leon, and looking at Merlin curiously.

 

“Sire.” Bregdan said, giving him a bow and shoving Merlin to do the same. 

 

“Wanted to come see where my knights were housed before leaving them.” Arthur said, walking forward and holding his hand out to Merlin.

 

“Makes sense.” Merlin agreed, shaking the proffered hand. “Erm, would you like a tour then?”

 

“A tour would be great.” Gwaine said enthusiastically.

 

“Just a quick note,” Merlin said, pointing at Gwaine and looking at Arthur, “I’ve been promised if he does any sort of damage to my tavern or drinks me dry that Camelot will compensate me.”

 

“I’m aware.” Arthur said with a sigh. “Gwaine had to sign a promise that he wouldn’t do such a thing, or he’d be paying me back to make it up.”

 

“Good idea.” Merlin said, turning back to his estate and practically growling. “Elena! Get the fuck out of that tree! If you fall and break your arm again, I’ll tell Gita to make it heal the old fashioned way!”

 

“You would not!” Vivian exclaimed, leaning around Elena.

 

“You too! Get down, now! If Mithian is up there, all three of you will be doing fucking dishes!”

 

“No need to be so rude.” Mithian sniffed, hopping down elegantly and before helping Vivian and Elena down as well. “Hello, sire.” Mithian said politely, as the three girls curtsied to Arthur.

 

“Do you always shout at Princesses that way?” Arthur asked in confusion, looking at Merlin.

 

“Only when I’ve told them a dozen times not to do something and they do it anyway. Go get cleaned up, we’re having dinner in a couple hours, and it’ll probably take you that long to get all the sticks and leaves out of Elena’s hair.” Merlin directed them. The girls all rolled their eyes and skipped inside happily. “I’m never having children. At least not girls.”

 

“You will so have children.” Hunith exclaimed, walking by them. “I want grandchildren, Merlin.”

 

“You have a dragon for a granddaughter, is she not enough?” Merlin whined.

 

“No.” Hunith said firmly, inclining her head to Arthur before heading over to Bregdan.

 

“Fuck. Fuck fuck fuck. I should have just found a cave to hide in. Just hid myself away until the world forgot about me. Fuck.” Merlin groaned and tugged his hair for a minute before regaining his composure and facing the knights and King. “So. Tour?” He headed for his home, the others following a little dumbstruck.

 

 He walked them through the corridors, telling them what was where and directing the knights each to their rooms so they could drop off their bags. When he got to the council room he’d set up, he was in time to see another argument between Arnold, the innkeeper, and Gerald, the stable master. They stopped as soon as they saw him and started talking over each other. 

 

“Alright!” Merlin shouted, silencing them. “What is it this time?”

 

“I have a dozen rooms to rent out but there are only stables for half that many horses and he refuses to build more!” Arnold said loudly. Not yelling but near.

 

“I don’t have the room!” Gerald argued, and Merlin held up a hand to stop any further yelling.

 

“The stables in town can stay at six stalls, you can put two horses to a stall. Should you need further room, my stables can fit 20 and there are barely ever half a dozen horses here. Yes?”

 

“Thank you, Lord Ambrosius.” Gerald said, his shoulders sinking in relief.

 

“That will work.” Arnold agreed, both men bobbing a quick bow before leaving out the door Merlin had come in. 

 

“Merlin!” Madge called, as she walked in the back entrance to the room. “What have those girls been doing?! They’re covered in dirt and sticks!”

 

“They were in the tree again, Madge. I told them off, again, but I don’t know how else to keep them out of it aside from putting guards around it.”

 

“Humph.” She grumbled, handing him a piece of jerky before patting his cheek affectionately. “You are working too hard. I’ll make sure Jenna sends up some ale for dinner.” 

 

“Thank you Madge!” Merlin called after her as she waved. “Sorry about all the interruptions.”

 

“You are doing remarkably well.” Leon said approvingly.

 

“Thanks.” Merlin said, a little stunned by the compliment. “Er, anyway. That’s most of the house. Only room I left out was my work room.”

 

“What do you have a work room for?” Percival asked curiously. 

 

“Studying, mostly.”

 

“Would you show us?” Gwaine asked interestedly.

 

“Oh. Aye. If you’d like?” Everyone nodded, apparently curious what he needed a work room for. He guided them back down the corridor and up the stairs to his work room. “It’s the biggest space I have that isn’t otherwise occupied.” Merlin shrugged, smiling as he looked around at his library lining the walls and his map that still had the ruby stuck to it shimmering faintly. 

 

“It’s a bit like Gaius’ chambers.” Arthur said curiously, noting all the herbs hanging around and other equipment.

 

“Aye. I’m still a physician, so I have to keep things on hand for that. A lot of physicians and witches, warlocks, and sorcerers use similar herbs and equipment.”

 

“Witches, warlocks and sorcerers?” Arthur questioned.

 

“Witches and warlocks are those born with their magic, usually accessible at a very young age. Mum said I was magicking things the day I was born, which is extremely rare, but not entirely unheard of. Sorcerers are those who study and learn to channel natural energies to perform magic. You’ll not find many powerful enough to do much unless they have some sort of erm,” Merlin tapped his head, trying to remember the word, “amplifier, I’d guess you’d say. Like an amulet or talisman or something.”

 

“I didn’t realize there were so many differences.” Arthur said thoughtfully, looking at the ruby on the map.

 

“Not surprising.” Merlin scratched his neck. “Your father burned most books of magical knowledge in Camelot and never taught anything but fear of it.”

 

“What’s that stone?” Gwaine asked, peering at the ruby.

 

“Erm.” Merlin shifted his feet uncomfortably, but stopped when Arthur looked at him, his eyes narrowed. “The Queen asked me to find someone. And I did. That ruby marks where she is.”

 

“Why would Queen Annis ask you to find Morgana?” Arthur asked, scowling.

 

“She thought if we could find her and bring her here while you were here, handing her over would be a gesture of good will between the kingdoms.”

 

“So why is she not here?” Arthur pressed, looking back at the map. “Why is she in Amata?”

 

“Fuck, fuck, fucking bollocks.” Merlin wiped a hand over his face. “I was hoping she’d explain this all to you. Alright. Alright, look, she asked me some weeks back to find her, yeah? I said I would, because I owed her for missing a few months at the castle because this bloody town decided to pop up while I was at your wedding. Well, I performed the spell and found her. Then I used a crystal to scry her to see where she was. She’s being held prisoner. I have a way to get her out, but I can’t do it until the new moon, with six others helping me anchor the spell. She’s weak and being held in iron cuffs, so her magic is restrained. The plan was for me to get her out, and get her well again until we could hand her over to you. I have a tower that blocks out magic, it’s essentially like a lodestone, and would allow her time to heal, hopefully both mind and body.”

 

“What aren’t you telling me?” Arthur asked, watching him.

 

“When I saw her, I used a certain type of crystal.” Merlin sighed, sitting down in his seat at one of his tables. “It’s a shard from the Crystal Cave, a place said to be the birthplace of magic. Now. The thing to know about it, is that it takes a certain level of power to be able to use the crystals. If you have the power, they will show a person events that are yet to come.”

 

“The future.” Elyan whispered in awe, sitting down by Merlin.

 

“Aye.” Merlin nodded. “There are maybe a half dozen people born every decade that have the ability to see future events without a crystal, Seers or Vates. Morgana was one. I have my people out looking to see if there are any others around so I can avoid using the crystal again. I was able to get it to show what was happening to her at the time. But …”

 

“But it also showed you the future.” Percival said, sitting across from Elyan, while Gwaine sat on Merlin’s other side.

 

“It did. Two potential futures, actually.”

 

“And?” Arthur encouraged, giving in and sitting down in the chair across from Merlin.

 

“And, if we did nothing, left her there, she would eventually break free. When she did, she would gather an army and meet Camelot in battle. I saw you mortally wounded.” Merlin pointed at Arthur who merely frowned. “And I saw Morgana’s death shortly after, by my hand. The other, well, I’m hoping it was other, anyway; it showed Morgana at peace standing on some distant shore outside of Albion, looking out to sea over some white cliffs. If we could achieve that future, that would be preferable. But we won’t really know until we free her and see what state she’s in once she’s healed, at least in body.”

 

“You’re risking an awful lot for people who hate you.” Arthur said contemplatively, but Merlin only shrugged again. 

 

“It’s the right thing to do. Regardless of how we feel about each other, regardless of how things went down, I can’t just leave her to the mercy of a maniac King who enjoys putting people with magic through slow, agonizing deaths. Morgause used her and abused their connection to get her to do what she did. I don’t look forward to her staying in my home, but she deserves a chance to start making her own choices and not what Morgause pushed her into.”

 

“Even though she’s the reason Lancelot is dead and that Gaius was tortured?” Arthur asked, still watching him closely.

 

“Even so.” Merlin nodded. “I’ve made my thoughts known to the Queen, but it isn’t my call. I’ll house her and heal her, but what happens after is up to you. She’s a citizen of Camelot, let alone your sister. You’re the one who has to make the decision. I’m just pissed Annis didn’t tell you any of this.” Gwaine snorted, and Merlin gave him a crooked grin. 

 

“I’m sure she’ll tell me when I get back. I’m taking some of your knights with me, apparently.” Arthur shrugged.

 

“They aren’t my knights, they’re the Queens.” Merlin corrected. “She’s just sending them out here to train with me since I’m also still a knight but can’t fulfill my duties because this fucking town cropped up.” Merlin groaned.

 

“Merlin! Oh, sorry, don’t mean to interrupt.” Mordred said from the door, Gili behind him, wide eyes trained on Arthur.

 

“No problem. What do you need?” Merlin said, waving away the apology and Mordred came in with a book in his hands.

 

“A trader just passed through and had this book. I think it’s someone’s grimoire.” Mordred said excitedly, setting it on the table. Flipping it open and passing it to Merlin.

 

“I’ll be damned.” Merlin chuckled. “This is a rare find indeed. Looks like it’s mostly earth magic. Something you should excel at. Bring it back when we hold our lessons and we’ll go through it. Unless you brought it to me because you wanted me to hold onto it?”

 

“Could you? If I try to fit another book in the shop, Alice has threatened to give me boils.” Mordred shuddered.

 

“Alright.” Merlin chuckled again, waving his hand and sending the book to an open spot on a top shelf. “How’s the shops today?”

 

“Good. We got some fresh yarrow and lavender in finally.” Mordred said.

 

“Finally. Have the traders from the east come back with honey yet?”

 

“Nah, they should be through in another week or so, though.” Gilli said, speaking for the first time. “They promised a few other things as well, should we set some aside for you?”

 

“Let Gita sort through what she needs first, then Madge, and I’ll get what I need when they’re done.”

 

“Sounds good. Thanks for holding on to that book for me, Merlin.” Mordred said gratefully.

 

“Oh, erm, Arthur, Gwaine, Elyan, Percival, Leon these are Gili and Mordred. They take lessons with me once a week for magic. Gili’s father had magic, as he does, and Mordred was a Druid. Still is, technically.”

 

“Only because they started putting the town up before I got here.” Mordred whined. “I’m hoping to be a knight one day. Once I come of age in a few months, Merlin offered to teach me.”

 

“As long as …” Merlin encouraged, but Mordred rolled his eyes, while Gili snickered.

 

“As long as I can maintain a shield for more than one minute.” Mordred recited in an annoyed tone.

 

“Right. Get on, now. I don’t need Alice storming up here looking for you again.”

 

“Bye Merlin!” They said, waving cheerily as they disappeared in the corridor.

 

“How do you keep up with all of this?” Leon asked, his head tilted slightly.

 

“I don’t really. Mother takes care of all the staff and Bregdan helps her with the guards. The Princesses are supposed to only be here temporarily, but they were also supposed to return home a few weeks after the wedding instead of still being here months later. The town has a council and an alderman, but they still come to me for a lot of their disputes because apparently I’m straightforward and not trying to please them all.”

 

“Do you not have any assistants or servants as the Lord of the estate?” Arthur asked, head tilted similarly to Leon’s.

 

“Haven’t had time to hire one yet, and Mother seems to think I’m doing just fine without one. If I get called back to the castle, I’ll have to have one to make sure I don’t lose my shit being away from the chaos I’ve gotten used to.” Merlin said bluntly, grinning when they all laughed, even Arthur. “I’ve got to get cleaned up before dinner, like I sent the girls to do, or they’ll nag me all night. Are you staying, sire, or do you need to head back?”

 

“I can leave in the morning, if you have room for me, that is?” Arthur said hesitantly, standing up with the others.

 

“I think we might have another room left, let me check real quick.” Merlin stuck his head out the door. “Madge!”

 

“What?” She yelled back from somewhere down the corridor.

 

“Have we got one more room available for King Arthur to stay in?” He hollered.

 

“We’ve got two. I’ll get the one across from you set up. Give me a minute.” She yelled back before yelling back the other way.

 

“Yeah, we’ve got a room. You’re all welcome to explore the town. Dinner should be ready in an hour.” Merlin said, looking back at the others, who looked amused. “What?”

 

“Nothing.” Arthur chuckled, failing at keeping a straight face. “It’s just funny to see how much you’re still you, even though you’ve gained a title.”

 

“Pff. The title doesn’t mean shit if I suddenly become a different person because of it.” Merlin waved his hand. “If you get lost while you’re exploring, just stop by the herb shop and ask Mordred how to get back. And Gwaine, I swear to all the gods, if you tap into our wine flasks that are not ready yet I’ll put toads in your bed.”

 

“Hey!” Gwaine exclaimed indignantly. “I’m not the wine drinker here. And I already promised I wouldn’t burn anything down or cause a riot or anything.”

 

“Good. No gambling until you’ve been here a few days, either. Dinner in an hour or you’re sleeping in the stables.” Merlin said, still looking at Gwaine.

 

“Got it, Merls!” Gwaine said cheerily, flashing him a smile. 

 

“We’ll keep an eye on him, go get cleaned up. As entertaining as seeing Princesses fuss over you promises to be, I’m sure your mother would be just as unhappy at how you smell.” Arthur said, giving him a light shove out the door.

 

“Aye. That she would.” Merlin sighed, waving them off as he went to his room. He bathed quickly and made sure to put a touch of the potion in his hair that Vivian had given him, knowing she would scowl at him all dinner if he didn’t. He met Bregden and Elyse in the corridor on the way to the dining hall, rolling his eyes as they walked a step behind him. When he entered, everyone stood up for him to take his seat, which he barely refrained from rolling his eyes at, since Arthur was there and he technically out ranked Merlin.

 

“Hello, Merlin.” Jenna sing-songed as she brought out some pitchers of ale.

 

“Hello, Jenna. So. How goes things with Sir Eret? Still making him work?” He asked with a smirk, as she laughed.

 

“Of course! He’s taken me out a couple o’ times, been a right gentlemen the entire time, too.”

 

“That’s unfortunate.” Merlin chuckled, while Jenna laughed some more.

 

“Too right. Once he gets past his nerves, I think we’ll be fine. We’re gonna get married in that garden your mother has going in the back probably next year some time, so don’t fuck it up.” She teased.

 

“Already planning it, eh?” Merlin snickered. “Alright, you just tell him to let me know when and I’ll make sure it’s set up properly.”

 

“Of course you will.” Jenna snorted. “Otherwise you’d have to get your ale somewhere else.”

 

Merlin laughed as she poured out drinks for the rest of the guests, whispering with Elyse a little and making her laugh heartily.

 

“I am going to tease him endlessly.” She said once she caught her breath back.

 

“Be sure to tell me how it goes, yeah?” Merlin reminded her, and she rolled her eyes.

 

“He’s my twin, not yours. I’m the only one supposed to be teasing him about his courting.”

 

“Yeah, but he gets so riled up when I do it, I can’t help it!” Merlin chuckled. He stopped when Madge appeared and started heaping food on his plate, his jaw dropping as he looked at her, ready to argue.

 

“Don’t you dare try and argue with me, Merlin Ambrosius.” She said sternly, and Merlin ignored his mother’s snickering. “You have been working yourself to the bone and are losing weight you can’t afford to lose. Eat that and Lettie has some raspberry tarts for dessert.”

 

“You do know I’m supposed to be the one in charge, right?” Merlin asked, snickering when she flicked his arm.

 

“If you took better care of yourself we’d all play along and let you believe that, dear.” She moved along the table along with another few maids, handing out food.

 

“The crystal incident was weeks ago, now. Surely you’ve gotten past that?” He whined, looking at his plate once more.

 

“It was weeks ago and it took you this long to be able to sit and eat full meals again.” Hunith chastised.

 

“Yes, Mother.” Merlin grumbled, picking up his fork and knife.

 

“Now, when are you girls headed for the castle?” Hunith asked politely, focusing on the Princesses. Merlin tuned them out and started making his way through his food.

 

“Da! Da!” Aithusa chirped happily as she entered the hall, pouncing in his lap and knocking him and his chair over. “Da!” She wriggled excitedly.

 

“Yes, Aithusa?” Merlin asked, in slight exasperation.

 

“Caught a bat!” She stated proudly.

 

“Good for you, sweetheart. You know, you’re starting to get too big to jump on me like this.” He said, scratching her neck.

 

“Am not.” She pouted.

 

“Ok, fine, you’re not. But you need to move so I can sit my chair back up.” She jumped off of him and used her teeth to lift the chair back up, before sliding into his lap more carefully and facing the table. 

 

“Ello. I’m Aithusa.” She said proudly, and Merlin rolled his eyes.

 

“Yes, you are.” He agreed. “Aithusa, this is Arthur, Leon, Percival, Elyan, and Gwaine. Arthur is only here tonight but the others are here for a few weeks so you’ll have time to meet them later. Why aren’t you with Kilgharrah?” Aithusa huffed, a small flame shooting out her nose, and shifted her shoulders so her pout was more pronounced.

 

“Stuffy old codger.” She grumbled. “Trying to teach me prophecy.”

 

“Ah, I understand. I’d run off, too.” Merlin chuckled. “Go sit by Mother in your chair, sweetheart.”

 

“Fine.” She said, hopping off of him and going to climb in her chair next to Hunith.

 

“Do all dragons talk?” Arthur asked, frowning, but it shifted to a small smile when Aithusa nuzzled Hunith’s face affectionately.

 

“Yeah. Usually takes a few years, but Aithusa was determined to talk as soon as possible and mother has been teaching her.” Merlin said with a sigh.

 

“I never knew that.” Arthur said thoughtfully. 

 

“Only two dragons left in all of Albion, currently. And Kilgharrah is still torn between being pissed at me for leaving Camelot and happy that he got to come back to our family home.” Merlin admitted.

 

“Did Annis know?” Arthur asked, taking a drink of his ale.

 

“Aye. The Caerleon line used to have dragonlords as well, but when her sons died, the gift died with them.”

 

“How does someone become a dragonlord?”

 

“From what I’ve learned it has to do with the original eight men who tamed a dragon. They learned the language of the dragons and could speak and command them when they all joined their magic. But it wasn’t something that could be taught. The eldest son of each family would inherit the gift when the father passed on. And so it went for generations. At one point, though, there were nearly 20 dragonlords in Albion. But I’m sure you can guess why there aren’t anymore. Some fled the country, going overseas, some were killed. Balinor was only staying close because he couldn’t get the courage to return home, knowing he would still be able to be found. I feel like I’m starting to get to know him better, being here.”

 

“He always talked about this place.” Hunith added, cutting into their conversation. “Always told me about it. How, when the time was right, we’d come here and have a family of our own.”

 

“I mean, it did happen. Just took over 20 years.” Merlin shrugged, smiling when his mother snorted.

 

“True enough.” She agreed.

 

“You better be eating, Merlin!” Madge yelled from the servants doorway.

 

“I am!” He groaned, focusing back on his food. He’d eaten half, just needed to make it through a bit more so he could have a raspberry tart. 

 

Dinner passed pleasantly, with everyone chatting, aside from Merlin who was attempting to eat everything Madge had put on his plate. The Princesses chatted with the knights and King amicably and Leon and Percival managed Gwaine’s ale intake. When dessert came, Merlin could barely make it halfway through, and asked if he could just add it to his breakfast in the morning. Madge smirked and agreed, before having the table cleared off. 

 

He really wished he could just go to bed, but he needed to finish writing out the notices for Annis for the town council, so he went to his desk in his work room, knowing his bed would be too tempting. He’d finally finished the last one when he looked up and noticed Arthur was in the room with him, looking over his books. He wasn’t sure how he felt about being alone with him in a room yet, but refused to call out for anyone.

 

“You’ve got quite the library.” Arthur said thoughtfully, trailing his fingers over the book spines.

 

“Aye. Took some time to collect them all and restore what was already here. Have a few that I wouldn’t mind sending back to Gaius, if you’re alright with your knights taking them along?”

 

“What are they about?”

 

“Herbs, mostly. Though some cover medical procedures that we discussed when I was there, so I know he’d enjoy getting to see it in writing.”

 

“I’m sure he would.” Arthur agreed quietly. “I wanted to say that I was wrong.” 

 

“Alright?” Merlin said, confused.

 

“About Agravaine.” He admitted, and Merlin bit his lip.

 

“Oh.” He said quietly, standing up and going over toward his shelves, but still staying out of reach of Arthur.

 

“I did some digging and found out his estate was in shambles and the men he had as guards were really mercenaries that Morgana had sent to keep an eye on him. I was blinded by the fact he was my Uncle. Much like I was with Morgana. She wasn’t really kidnapped that year, was she?”

 

“No, I don’t expect she was. The only one who can answer that though, is her. Gaius and I made guesses over the years, but we never got any confirmation about what she did with Morgause while she was gone.”

 

“Mm.” Arthur hummed, before turning and facing Merlin. “I don’t remember what all was said that night. The night you left. But I shouldn’t have gone after you like I did while I was drunk.”

 

“No, you shouldn’t have.” Merlin agreed.

 

“The more I thought back on the time you spent in Camelot, the more it confused me. The more confused I got, the angrier it made me. It just didn’t make sense that you wouldn’t want anything from me or the kingdom.”

 

“I told you once that I was looking for some place I fit in.” Merlin said softly. “I thought it was meant to be Camelot. But … now …” Merlin trailed off, looking back at his books. “I have all I could ever want. I can study and learn and practice magic and not worry about the wrong person catching me and reporting me just to send me to my death for how I was born. For being the monster they feared.”

 

“You’re not a monster.” Arthur said firmly. 

 

“Maybe I am, maybe I’m not.” Merlin shrugged. “Monster is relative. To a deer, a hunter is a monster. To someone from Camelot a dragon or sorcerer is a monster. To most of those with magic, the knights of Camelot were the monsters. We fear what we don’t understand, and that fear breeds animosity and hate.”

 

“I never looked at things that way.” Arthur said with a heavy sigh. 

 

“Most people don’t.” 

 

“You did.” 

 

“I had a unique perspective.” Merlin stated. “I’ve seen both sides of Camelot’s story. The love and the hate; the fear and the pride. You said earlier that you were surprised by how I was acting. The truth is, I’m tired of changing things about myself to make other people happy. They’ll either accept me or they won’t. I’d rather be open and honest about who I am so they can make an accurate opinion.”

 

“Do you think there’s any way for me to fix this chasm I created between us?”

 

“I … I don’t know, Arthur. I really don’t. I hope so. I’d like for us to be allies, and maybe even friends, one day. But I’m not there yet.”

 

“I understand. Well, I won’t bother you anymore tonight. It’s late. Goodnight, Merlin.”

 

“Goodnight, sire.” Merlin said softly as Arthur nodded to him and left. 

 

After a few minutes of just staring at the door, thinking back over that strange conversation, Merlin made his way to bed. 

 

He woke the same way he did most mornings, now. With three young women bustling around his room as if it were theirs, setting out clothes for him, working on embroidery, or arranging flowers on his tables. He rolled out of bed as someone knocked and Elena opened it, blinking in confusion at King Arthur, who was looking at her in confusion as well.

 

“Er, sorry, I was looking for Merlin. Is this not his room?”

 

“Oh, no, it is, sire. He’s just got up to get dressed. Do you want to come in and wait for him?” She asked politely, opening the door further. Merlin was still rubbing his eyes and stretching, yawning widely when the King spotted him.

 

“I didn’t realize you would all be here.” He said somewhat quietly.

 

“They won’t leave.” Merlin grumbled, and was promptly hit by three pillows that had been thrown at him. “You know it’s true. They come in here every morning to wake me up and make themselves at home. Pretty sure half the things in here aren’t even mine.” He continued to complain before walking behind his screen to change. 

 

“Don’t mind him, sire.” Mithian said with amusement in her tone. “He loves that we come in and wake him up.”

 

“Even if he doesn’t know it yet.” Vivian agreed.

 

“He’ll be fine in a few more minutes. Probably as soon as he has a bite to eat. He’s always cranky when he’s hungry.” Elena added, offering a seat to Arthur.

 

“Arthur’s worse.” Merlin retorted, coming out from behind his screen and sitting at his table where his half eaten dessert from the night before waited for him, along with an array of fruits and cheese.

 

The other knights came by, since Elena had left the door open, and made themselves comfortable at his table. Vivian was combing his hair and Mithian was helping her with the hair potion while he ate. Elena knelt down and tugged his boots on and went to straighten out his blankets, setting a few sprigs of lavender on his pillow.

 

“Is it like this every morning for you?” Gwaine asked curiously, watching the girls fuss over him.

 

“Like what?” Merlin replied, confused.

 

“Princesses getting you ready for your day.” Percival clarified.

 

“Oh. Er, aye, s’pose it is.” Merlin shrugged. “I’ve gotten sort of used to it and find it’s easier to let them fuss and ignore them than try and fight them off. Never had anyone do it before, aside from Gaius, who had his own job to worry about.”

 

“Must be how the town keeps from falling apart.” Elyan said thoughtfully. “They take care of you, while you take care of the people.”

 

“Precisely.” Mithian chimed in.

 

“We’ve seen how he treats everyone.” Vivian agreed.

 

“He deserves a portion of that care for himself.” Elena finished, all three looking proud of themselves. 

 

“Is there going to be a three kingdom fight for who Merlin marries, then?” Arthur asked, fighting a smile. Merlin frowned.

 

“No. I may be a noble now, but I’m not King material.” Merlin argued.

 

“It wouldn’t be a three way fight.” Elena said dreamily. “Gili has finally agreed to come visit Gawant with me.”

 

“That’s great.” Merlin said, smiling at her.

 

“Two kingdom fight, then?” Arthur said, looking between Mithian and Vivian who were staring each other down behind Merlin’s back.

 

“You met King Olaf.” Merlin countered, not noticing the girls’ silent conversation. “I doubt he’s changed enough to be ready to let Viv court anyone yet, let alone get married.”

 

“That was true before you lifted that blasted love spell.” Vivian said cautiously.

 

“Both our father’s have already petitioned Queen Annis to have you come for a state visit at some point to talk about your town. See how you handle it. She hasn’t answered them back yet, though.” Mithian added.

 

“Wonderful.” Merlin said flatly. “Tell you what,” He turned and faced the girls, “stay out of the damn tree and I’ll listen to Annis when she makes her suggestion.”

 

“But we like that tree.” Vivian whined.

 

“You can see the whole town from up there.” Mithian agreed.

 

“That’s my condition. Think about it. Now. We’re going to go to the courtyard and send King Arthur back to the castle before we get stuck in meetings and lessons and training.”

 

“Can Elyse work with us today?” Elena asked.

 

“Not liking Karigan?” Merlin replied, raising an eyebrow at them.

 

“It’s not that we don’t like her.” Mithian said quickly.

 

“It’s just that she has always been a soldier and not a Lady of a court. The tactics she wants us to learn are rather difficult to pull off in the gowns and dresses we wear more often than not.” Vivian agreed.

 

“Do you have older dresses that you’re able to train in? That are alright if we need to mend?”

 

“Yes. We brought riding dresses that are able to get as dirty as need be.” Elena said quickly.

 

“When it’s time for training, change into those, then meet on the field. I’ll talk to Karigan and Elyse and see if we can work more on maneuvers that are actually able to be accomplished in court attire.”

 

“Thank you!” They all squealed, hugging him before bouncing out the door, leaving him alone with the stunned knights.

 

“You all keep looking at me like that each time something happens. Why?”

 

“You’re just very good at this. Leading a town, being a Lord, negotiating with foreign royalty.” Arthur said, shaking his head.

 

“I just treat them like people.” Merlin shrugged. “Come on. Let’s get you sent back to the Queens. No telling what they’ve accomplished without you there to run interference.” Arthur snorted, before his face dropped.

 

“Do you think they planned for me to not be there so they could discuss things without me?” He asked seriously.

 

“Probably. Plus it gives Annis a feel for the type of Queen Gwen is. Whether she does as you command, or whether you share in your power equally.”

 

“He does whatever Gwen wants him to.” Elyan teased.

 

“She has good ideas.” Arthur grumbled, getting to his feet, ignoring the knowing smiles from the knights. When they reached the courtyard, the Princesses were waiting patiently, looking pristine and proper.

 

“One moment, Merlin.” Hunith said, facing Arthur who did his best to school his face at her disappointed expression.

 

“Mother-”

 

“Hush.” She told him firmly. “Now. Merlin does not hold grudges. He forgives too easily, in my opinion. I can see you want to try and fix things between you two. While I support the idea, I will not have my son hurt again on your whim.”

 

“Mother!”

 

“Shush, Merlin.” She commanded, and he sighed, knowing there was nothing he could say to stop her. “After Morgana is dealt with, I expect you to act like a friend, not just a King. I expect you to talk to him and find out what all he has done for you to keep you safe from threats you didn’t even know existed. And I expect a very thorough apology that covers every instance in which he warned you of something and you ignored him or threatened him. Merlin will accept whatever apology you make, but it needs to appease me, as his mother, if you want me to allow him any further interactions with Camelot.”

 

“Yes, my lady.” Arthur croaked, eyes wide at her fierce expression.

 

“Have a safe trip back to Caerleon, your highness.” She curtsied and went back to talking to Bregdan who had such a besotted look on his face that Merlin had to look away, feeling gross that someone looked at his mother that way.

 

“I’m sure we’ll be at the castle sometime in the next few days. Whenever Annis sends for us. Bregdan is our Head Knight, so he’ll make good protection should you need it along the way.” Merlin said, rubbing his temples at the headache that was coming.

 

“The new moon is in just over a week. Will you be performing your spell here or elsewhere?”

 

“It’ll be here. We have a clearing around the west side of the house we’re using. It’s closest to the tower so we can get her there quickly once she’s summoned.”

“I’d like to be here for it.” Arthur admitted.

 

“You sure you don’t want to wait a few days for her to start healing?”

 

“I’d like to see her as soon as she gets here. And I’ll come back every few days to check on her, if that’s alright?”

 

“Of course. She’s your sister. I’m merely housing her until you and your Queen can make your decision once she is well.”

 

“You’re not ‘merely’ doing anything.” Arthur sighed. “Take care, Merlin. And let me know if any of my men cause any trouble. Just because we expect it will be Gwaine doesn’t mean he won’t talk Percival or Elyan into anything.”

 

“That’s true enough.” Merlin hummed. “Travel safe.”

 

Arthur gave him a short nod before mounting his horse and following the handful of knights that were accompanying him back to the castle. 

 

“Out of curiosity,” Leon asked once Arthur was out of sight, “what are you training the Princesses for?”

 

“Queen Annis requested they become proficient with a weapon of some sort. They all chose daggers or long knives. Vivian and Elena are already expert markswomen with a crossbow or regular bow, and Mithian is a strategic genius with battle plans. I’ve got someone who is training them, but, well, you heard them. The woman who is training them is a warrior first, and always has been. The girls want to know how to fight in their normal attire instead of having to rush off and change their clothes in the middle of anything.”

 

“Makes sense.” Leon agreed, nodding his head thoughtfully. “Do you think your trainer would be willing to train Queen Guinevere, as well?”

 

“Aye. But Gwen probably doesn’t need as extensive of training as the Princesses. Though I could see the benefits of her learning to adjust her fighting to her newer gowns.”

 

“Those were my thoughts.”

 

“She asked to train with you, didn’t she?” Merlin asked, trying to hide his grin at Leon’s frustrated expression.

 

“I can’t train her how to move in her dresses.” Leon grumbled.

 

“That’s fair. Well, if she makes it out here during the remaining few weeks they’ll be around, she’s welcome to join in.” Merlin shrugged. “I’ve got to go, the others should start their sword training soon if you want to join in with them.”

 

Leon nodded and directed the knights that came with him to the training grounds to practice, while Merlin went to handle his notices and talk with the alderman as well as the list of other tasks he had to complete that day. 

 

He didn’t have time to interact with the newcomers much in the week leading up to the spell, as he was busy ensuring everything was prepared and getting the area set up to the right specifications. He was modifying the spell he was intending to use, so he knew there was no room for error. Gili, Mordred, Alice, and Gita were going to assist him, as were two others; Alaric and Damon. They were in the side garden most days ensuring the area was cleansed and learning the spell. 

 

Annis came out the day he was to perform it, and Merlin was unable to lend her, or anyone, for that matter, even a fraction of his attention. He had several books open and was constantly going between his work room, the tower where Morgana would be staying, and the garden, not noticing when people hastily moved out of his way as he walked along muttering under his breath. Madge appeared a few times, shoving food in his mouth when he was not responding. He met the others in the garden as the moon rose and shifted through the sky. 

 

He raised his hands and lit the seven candles that were before each of the sorcerers assisting him. He chanted another spell, igniting the herbs that formed a circle in their center. They each raised their hands when Merlin nodded at them. When the spell began, lightning flickered across the clear sky, striking the center of their circle, startling those gathered to observe. The wind picked up, creating a whirlwind within the circle, lightning still striking its center as the spell built. When the last words were spoken, the weather disappeared as quickly as it appeared, and Morgana lay unconscious in the center. Merlin attempted to step forward, but his legs gave out under him and he fell to the ground, just noticing that the others had already fallen at some point.

 

Annis and Hunith directed what needed to happen for Morgana, and the maids and knights all moved quickly to get her in her recovery room.

 

“Merlin?” Merlin slowly blinked his eyes open to find Vivian and Mithian knelt beside him in concern. Elena was next to Gili, and some of the other townsfolk were helping the others.

 

“‘M fine.” He said in a rough voice.

 

“Can you stand?” Vivian asked gently.

 

“Not without help.” Merlin admitted.

 

“Then we will help you.” Mithian said stubbornly.

 

“Let me.” Arthur said, approaching them and carefully pulling Merlin upright and keeping an arm around him to keep him from collapsing again. 

 

“You’re a King. You shouldn’ be doin’ this.” Merlin said, gripping Arthur’s shoulder firmly when the world spun.

 

“And you were the only one still standing when the spell was nearing the end.” Arthur countered, guiding him carefully inside, Vivian and Mithian going ahead of them to get to Merlin’s room ready. “Everyone but you collapsed when the wind started.”

 

“‘S why I needed them.” Merlin hummed, tripping slightly. “Needed them for the protection part of the spell so I could focus my magic on pulling her here.”

 

“Just how powerful are you?” Arthur asked quietly, hefting Merlin up a bit more.

 

“Dunno. Haven’t found anything I couldn’t do with a little work.” Merlin was breathing heavily and sweating when they finally arrived at his room, where Arthur set him down carefully on his bed and moved out of the way. Vivian and Mithian pulled off his boots and socks and dabbed his sweaty head with a cool, damp cloth before pulling the blankets up over him. They took a chair on each side of his bed and picked up their needlework and knitting. “You don’t have to stay with me.” Merlin said quietly, his eyes already closed to the comforting sound of them working.

 

“Someone has to watch you all night to make sure you recover.” Mithian said, a smile in her voice.

 

“Get some rest, Merlin.” Vivian added, and Merlin fell asleep before the door to his room clicked closed. 

 

When he woke, his mother and Queen Annis were in the room, having something to eat at his table. He stumbled a bit when he climbed out of bed and fell into his chair. Drinking the tea his mother pushed to him and holding the cup for its warmth as he tried to wake up.

 

“How are you this morning, sweetheart?” Hunith asked, rubbing a hand along his arm.

 

“Better.” He admitted, sipping his tea. “The hard part for me is over, now, at least.”

 

“You’ve been asleep for two days, Lord Ambrosius.” Annis said softly.

 

“Thought so.” Merlin nodded. “Magical exhaustion happens. Usually I can recover in a day, but that was a rather powerful spell.”

 

“You’ll need to go see her today, love.” Hunith said, sliding him a plate with some bread and fruit on it toward him.

 

“Aye.” He agreed. “How’s she been?”

 

“She woke up yesterday, confused and afraid. She’s pretty weak, but she’s only been able to keep broth down.” His mother answered.

 

“Sounds right. I’d like to have a bath before I see her. I still feel a bit sticky from the other night.”

 

“After you see her, come to your council hall and we’ll talk.” Annis instructed, and Merlin inclined his head to her.

 

“Of course, highness.” When he went behind his screen, his mother and the Queen left him alone.

 

When he was cleaned up, he headed for Morgana’s tower, accepting the hugs and shoulder pats that people gave him as he passed by. He paused before going in, taking a few deep breaths to steel himself. When he was in the room, he waited for Morgana to notice him.

 

“Merlin?” She asked in confusion, sitting by the window in the sun.

 

“Hello, Morgana.” He said with a small smile. “How are you feeling?”

 

“Confused.” She admitted, looking back out the window. “Where am I? How did I get here? Why isn’t my magic working?”

 

“You’re in Gwynnedd, near Caerleon. My home, as it stands. You got here because we discovered you were being held prisoner in Amata and pulled you out. No magic will work in the tower. It has a lodestone that blocks it.”

 

“Camelot is your home.” She said, her brow furrowed.

 

“No. It was, once. It’s a bit of a long story. Can I sit?”

 

“It’s your house, apparently.” She said, waving a hand at the chair opposite her. 

 

“Thank you.” He said, taking his seat slowly, ensuring to telegraph his moves. “I left Camelot over a year ago. Arthur came back to his room, drunk. Telling me he figured out why a lamia didn’t affect me and demanded to know what I wanted from him, from Camelot.”

 

“As if you’d ever take anything from Arthur.” She scoffed.

 

“Pretty much what I told him. When he hit me and threw me out of his chambers I decided I was done with it all. I couldn’t stay somewhere people expected me to turn on them for whatever stupid reason he came up with. Agravaine followed me as I fled into the woods. If he’d have just let me leave, I wouldn’t have killed him.”

 

“I wondered what happened to him. I had plans that I needed him for. I should have expected it had something to do with you.” She sighed.

 

“It wasn’t my intention.” He shrugged. “I ended up in Gwynnedd at some point, maybe a few weeks later, treating some knights who’d been injured and they brought me before Queen Annis who asked me to stay on and train her physician apprentices. I did what I could and also eventually traveled to Nemeth to train their physicians as well. Queen Annis trained me and knighted me, gave me a new home. Discovered my father was once a nobleman here, and this was his estate. I went with the Queen to Camelot to Arthur and Gwen’s wedding, but Arthur was still angry with me and tried to arrest me, once he figured out who I was, for killing his Uncle. I’m guessing he had several people talk with him about some things before he came back a week ago to visit as I’d offered to house some of his knights who came with him while he treated with Annis.”

 

“That’s quite the story.” She said thoughtfully. “And the dragons?”

 

“They’re mine. Well, sort of. Aithusa’s mine. Kilgharrah is a pest I inherited. My father was a dragonlord.”

 

“Hm.” She hummed. “How did the lamia not affect you? I’ve seen you with women and men. You should have been enthralled if others were.”

 

“Magic.” Merlin said quietly, watching her for a reaction, but she just stared at him, her eyes hard.

 

“You have magic.”

 

“I was born with it.”

 

“I see.” She said, her jaw clenched. “That’s why you tried to help me. Why you never told anyone about me.”

 

“Wasn’t my secret to tell.” Merlin agreed.

 

“And you never told me about your magic because?”

 

“Because I was a servant, partly. Because Gaius told me I couldn’t. Because there were too many things to consider. If we had a falling out, it would be something you could use against me and turn me over to your father and I’d be executed. Because, even if you didn’t, I’d been taught since I was a babe that it was something I had to keep quiet about. Something that I had to keep secret.”

 

“I was so afraid, back then. Afraid of Uther finding out. What he would do to me. Then I found my sister. She cared about me, taught me magic. I could tell she was hiding something from me, but I didn’t care. She accepted me, magic and all.”

 

“She also used you.” Merlin pointed out.

 

“As has nearly everyone I’ve ever met.” Morgana argued.

 

“Perhaps.” Merlin shrugged. 

 

“Why am I here?”

 

“To heal. Mind and body. To get well again.”

 

“And after?”

 

“After is up to you and King Arthur. Your crimes are against Camelot and your brother. You have a choice, Morgana. A choice to let go of your anger and hatred and find peace; or, you can hold onto it. In which case you’ll most likely face execution.”

 

“I’m a High Priestess. I doubt that anything my brother does aside from chopping my head off and burning my remains would kill me.” She said biting her nails.

 

“You have time to think on it. Have you had a chance to bathe? I can have a bath sent up as well as some books if you’d like to read?”

 

“A bath would be nice.” She reluctantly admitted after a moment. “Otherwise I’d just like to think and watch for a bit. I’ve never seen this town before. They’re doing magic in the open and no one is bothered by it.”

 

“It’s not illegal here.” Merlin replied. “The town,” he sighed, “it popped up after Gwen’s coronation. When I got back they were just here, and it expanded from a camp to an actual town. They live a peaceful life. I think Arthur might actually be considering magic, finally. Ready to accept it. Maybe not yet, but soon. The more he sees the mundane tasks accomplished with it, the less scary it is.”

 

“I’m still angry with you.” Morgana said, as Merlin stood to leave. 

 

“I know. And I know you don’t want to hear an apology. Even though I am sorry for how things occurred between us. I’ll have a bath sent up.” Merlin nodded to her and left the tower, finding Madge as soon as he reentered the corridors. “Could you have a bath sent up for Morgana? Perhaps some wine and a few sweets?”

“Of course, of course. Don’t you worry about it another minute, I’ll take care of everything. There is a tray of fruit and a few sweets in the council hall where the Queen awaits you. Go on. Make sure you eat and drink plenty of water.”

 

“I will.” Merlin chuckled, accepting the hug she pulled him in for.

 

“Go on, love. Don’t you worry about Morgana. I’ll make sure she’s taken care of.” Merlin walked to his council room and took his seat beside Annis when he arrived, nodding his thanks for the plate of food that was pushed in front of him. 

 

“Your report?” Annis asked, watching him intently.

 

“She’s still angry, but I think her captivity wore her down. Madge is getting her a bath and taking care of her for now. I explained why she was here. I think she’ll be more willing to talk in a week or so. After she’s had time to think.”

 

“Do you think she still poses a threat to the kingdoms?” Arthur asked, watching him with a blank face. 

 

“Now? Yes. In time? No, I don’t think she will. I informed her that what happens to her depends on you. I don’t think she’ll try and manipulate you, but you’ll need to be honest with her if you want the same.”

 

“Do you think it’s safe for me to see her?” Arthur asked, watching Merlin closely, as if daring him to try to lie.

 

“No. I don’t think it is. I think she needs at least a week. Before she’s ready to confront how she truly feels about you, let alone Camelot. I suggest giving her the week, though two would be best, before you see her. She’s … well, she’s suffered a lot. I don’t know how long she was there, as I don’t know when she was captured. She’ll probably talk with me, though.” Merlin replied, shoving his plate back, tired of picking at it.

 

“Morgana isn’t the same as the last we saw her, the last any of us saw her. She’s been changed by the circumstances she found herself in. Once she is able to accept that me and my people are here to aid her, she’ll either start opening up or closing off. She’ll either share or plot her revenge and how soon she wants to initiate her grand plan. I’m not really a factor for her anymore, if I ever was. She’s going to put together all of the times her plans have failed and how many times I was most likely involved in the outcomes. I need you to trust me, sire. Trust that I can get through to her. Trust that I can do what I do best.” Merlin said, staring at Arthur intently, seeing the turmoil in his eyes. How he didn’t trust Merlin.

 

“And what is it you do best?” Arthur asked in a low voice.

 

“Talk.” Merlin answered honestly.

 

“I-” Arthur paused, as if he was choking on the words.

“You don’t trust me.” Merlin said quietly, not flinching away; no longer hurt by it. He’d had his time to accept it and understand the reasoning. “That’s fine. Don’t trust me, if you can’t. But trust Queen Annis.”

 

“I’ll give you the week.” Arthur said quietly, getting up and leaving them alone, Merlin watching him the whole way, his shoulders sinking once he was gone.

 

“I’ll be heading back to the castle this afternoon, Lord Ambrosius.” Annis informed him, getting to her feet. “Send word when you believe she is ready to see her brother.”

 

“Aye, my lady. I’ll do that.” Merlin stood and gave her a small bow as she departed with the others who had been waiting. 

 

He retreated to his work room, deciding to take his mind off of everything, if he could. He ended up spending the next week staring out his windows and sitting with Morgana for a few hours. They didn’t speak, just sat in silence watching the townspeople go about their days, the knights and princesses train, and even Aithusa fluttering through the air practicing loops and seeing how high she could go.

 

“Can I speak to her?” Morgana asked on their ninth day of sitting together.

 

“To what end?” Merlin asked, watching as Aithusa practiced a spiral dive.

 

“She healed me.” Morgana admitted. “After my Saxon army was defeated, she found me injured in the woods and healed me. I never got to thank her.”

 

Merlin stood up and opened the window to reveal a small balcony, just large enough for her to land on, and whistled for her attention. She landed gracefully, rubbing her head against Merlin’s as soon as she was close enough. He kissed her head and stroked her scales lovingly.

 

“My beautiful daughter.” Merlin hummed. “Lady Morgana, I’d like you to formally meet Aithusa. Darling girl, this is Lady Morgana. She tells me you healed her some time ago.”

 

“Felt her pain.” Aithusa agreed, pulling away from Merlin so she could see Morgana more clearly. “I wish we’d met sooner, soul-sister.”

 

“Soul-sister?” Morgana asked, reaching out and touching her scales gently.

 

“If you had been a son, or had a brother, he would be a dragonlord. The gift is in your blood from your mother, but because you are woman you cannot use it.” Aithusa explained. “Maybe … maybe when you have a new home, Da will let me visit?”

 

“I’d like that very much.” Morgana chuckled wetly. “You sweet, sweet girl. I wish we’d had time to spend together.”

 

“I think it would be lovely if you visited her, darling.” Merlin told Aithusa with a fond smile. “You can show her the love she always deserved and should never have had to fight for.”

 

“I know I must stay here longer,” Morgana said slowly, a small smile spreading across her face as she pet Aithusa, “but I think I should go. I think leaving Albion is best for me, for everyone. Can it wait, though? Just for another few weeks? The lodestone blocks most my dreams and actually lets me sleep.”

 

“I think that’s perfectly fine.” Merlin agreed. “It’ll give me time to find a way to maybe replicate the bracelet your sister gave you.”

 

“I’m still angry.” She said quietly.

 

“I know. Me too.” Merlin nodded.

 

“We were both fools, weren’t we? Pawns in some other pricks game.” Merlin snorted as Morgana grinned. “I won’t be a pawn any longer. You managed to choose a new path, so I must do so as well. Perhaps this is how you are meant to be my doom, after all. By reminding me of my humanity. Reminding me that the four of us once used to be inseparable. I always wondered what kind of world we would have created together. Now look at us. Arthur and Gwen are married, ruling over Camelot, while we are exiled. 

 

“It should have been all of us together, Merlin. Gwen and I, still best friends while we encouraged Arthur to make the right choice. You, whispering in his ear as he considered new laws and how they would affect the lower classes of people in the kingdom. Both of us being the magical advisors and holding regular meetings and rituals with the Druids to expand knowledge of the Old Religion as the last High Priest and Priestess.”

 

“Holding feasts to celebrate the finding of new dragon eggs and training hatchlings together.” Merlin agreed, staring into the distance as he imagined it all. “Maybe one day we’d both find someone who loved us. Magic and all, darkness and all. Fire breathing, scaly children and all.” Merlin grinned when Morgana snorted. 

 

“You don’t think there’s too much darkness in us? We’ve both done a lot of bad things in the name of what we believed in.”

 

“We have. Maybe we could still find someone who would be the light to our dark. I haven’t thought about love or marriage in so long, I doubt it would go well for me.” Merlin chuckled darkly. “I’ve hated myself for a long time for not telling you anything; for letting you feel so alone. But it doesn’t really do either of us any good to wonder about what could have been.”

 

“Perhaps not.” Morgana hummed, leaning her head on Aithusa’s. “I can’t apologize, Merlin. I know that’s what Arthur wants, but I can’t. I’m not sorry. I did what I thought I had to do to be free from my fear.”

 

“That makes you braver than me.” Merlin nodded. “I didn’t leave until my difference was beaten into me.”

 

They stood in silence for a while longer, while Aithusa cuddled Morgana. Eventually, Morgana gave Aithusa one last hug and sent her off to the keep for the evening. 

 

“I’d like some writing materials, if you can spare them?” Morgana said softly, staring at the darkening sky.

 

“I’ll have them sent up with breakfast.”

 

“You’ve been very kind to me these past few days. You didn’t have to rescue me, but you did because it was the right thing in your eyes. I’m not sure I’d have made the same choice in your position.”

 

“I think you would have.” Merlin countered. “But I also think you would have done it as a bargaining chip instead of for altruistic reasons. Which is fine. If I hadn’t inadvertently become a noble, I’d happily take Kigarrah, if not Aithusa, and raze Amata to the ground for what they’ve done to magical people.”

 

“Then I’ll count on you to take care of our people, Emrys.”

 

“It’s my duty. I won’t let them come to harm so long as I breathe.”

 

“Don’t promise such a thing.” Morgana said sadly, her voice shaking slightly. “You don’t know what lies ahead of you.”

 

“And what lies ahead of me, oh Seer of the White goddess?” Merlin whispered, meeting Morgana’s eye. Her eyes were looking into him, though, into his soul and through it.

 

“I see a long winding road. The destruction of all you know and love, while only you remain. I see uncountable years. I see those you love reborn through time, while they search for you through the world. Millenia you will wait for your King. And when he finds you again, for he will be the last to do so, you will face a final battle. Your King will be there with you, at the end of everything. Only then will you be free of your immortality, should you choose to be.”

 

“And you?”

 

“My path is yet unclear.” She replied, frowning as her eyes focused once more. “I do not wish to go through time as you will, Emrys. But I do not know what my fate may yet be. I hope we meet again, though. I hope we have the chance to be friends as the four of us once were.”

 

“Me too. I’ll leave you in peace, my lady. Good night.” Merlin gave her a small bow and left as she sat on her bed, staring out the window once more.

 

Madge promised he’d get her something to write with before sending him off. He knew he’d toss and turn if he went to bed, so he went to the garden. He lay down on the garden bed and watched the stars move through the sky. Millenia. Not just a few hundred years, but thousands, he would live. He was barely past his 26th summer as it was. He sunk his magic into the earth, feeling the different textures around him and under him. Perhaps that would be the one constant he would have to cling to in the coming days; that though his days may not have an end, the earth and stars would remain with him.

 

He was brought out of his thoughts as he heard boisterous laughter approaching. Though he thought he was well hidden, Gwaine always seemed to be able to sense him. Before he could protest, Gwaine, Leon, Elyan, Percival, Elyse and Eret were laying on the ground with him.

 

“I’ve missed stargazing with you, Merls.” Gwaine sighed heavily.

 

“Did you?” Merlin asked, grinning crookedly. “Or did you miss my ridiculous stories about constellations I made up?”

 

“Both.” Gwaine, Elyan, and Percival all answered together. 

 

“So he’s always done that, has he?” Eret asked, tossing a small flower at Merlin.

 

“Yeah.” Leon said quietly. “It always helped the newer knights when they were on a rough patrol or went through any sort of battle.”

 

“Kay tried making up his own for a bit.” Elyan admitted with a grimace. “They were terrible. You’d have been horribly disappointed, Merlin.”

 

“Arthur corrected him once, but looked so shocked and horrified by it, that he left to go keep watch.” Percival said quietly.

 

“I was by his side for around, what, five years? Give or take?” 

 

“Closer to seven.” Leon corrected. “You’ve been busy lately. Or distracted. Arthur does the same thing when he’s feeling emotional.”

 

“Probably where I picked it up.” Merlin chuckled.

 

“Want to share?” Gwaine asked, taking the flower Eret had thrown at him and tucking it behind his ear. 

 

“Have you ever talked with a Seer? Or had your palm read?” Merlin asked, crossing his legs at his ankles. 

 

“Not many opportunities in Camelot, but,” Percival said, pursing his lips, “I was told I would find my truest friends by sticking with the ‘common knight’.”

 

“So follow Lancelot and he’d bring you to us?” Elyan asked, cocking an eyebrow.

 

“Essentially.” Percival agreed.

 

“She saw something for you?” Elyse asked softly.

 

“Yeah.” Merlin nodded.

 

“And it wasn’t good, I take it?” Eret pressed.

 

“She saw … she saw my path ahead.” Merlin whispered. “The years I’ll walk the earth.”

 

“That doesn’t sound bad, but your tone does.” Leon said, frowning as he leaned up on an elbow.

 

“Millenia.” Merlin whispered, clearing his throat, “I’ll live for millenia.”

 

“But,” Gwaine sat up, causing the others to follow, “but that’s thousands of years.”

 

“Aye, it is.” Merlin agreed, clearing his throat, feeling as if something were lodged in it. “Fuck, I knew it would be a long time, but millenia? I can’t-”

 

“Hey.” Gwaine said gently, pulling him up and wrapping his arms around him, tucking his head into his neck. “Sh. We interrupted your processing. We didn’t mean to, but I’m glad we did. Don’t focus on it, Merls. One day at a time, one year at a time. Tell me something about your home, yeah? Tell me about how you used magic to reinforce the walls or something.”

 

“The walls were actually in fairly good shape.” Merlin mumbled, sniffling.

 

“Yeah? Well, that’s something.” Gwaine encouraged. 

 

“Had to reinforce the ceiling beams, though.” Merlin croaked. “The roof was caved in in a few places and I had to lift rocks and beams for a few days to get it back how it was meant to be.”

 

“And the dragon designs carved into them?” Gwaine asked, stroking a hand over his back soothingly.

 

“They were actually already there.” Merlin admitted. “I fixed a few of them where the beams had splintered, but I think my father’s family put them there.”

 

“Probably.” Gwaine hummed. “Why don’t we get you to bed to try and rest a few hours, yeah?”

 

“Not really tired.” Merlin mumbled, feeling comfortable where he was.

 

“Sure you aren’t. How about you just lay down with me for a bit, then? And once I’m asleep you can continue your silent brooding?”

 

“S’pose that could work.” Merlin shrugged, not able to open his eyes. He wrapped his arms around Gwaine’s neck and grumbled in slight annoyance when he was picked up and carried. 

 

“I don’t think you should focus on what’s to come, Merlin. You’ve done that for a long while now. You’ve finally started to live for each day, and it looks like it agrees with you. I like this happier, more carefree, Merlin. He smiles more and doesn’t look as if the world is riding on his shoulders. It’s a good look.”

 

“Arthur doesn’t think so.” Merlin mumbled, snuggling closer.

 

“Arthur’s a prick.” Gwaine said certainly, making Merlin snort. “He’s just gotta get used to how great you are when you aren’t stuck in his shadow anymore.”

 

“I look good in the shadows.” Merlin argued weakly.

 

“You look better in the light, though.” Gwaine shrugged, shifting Merlin in his arms more. “Get some rest, Merls. Tomorrow you can spar with me and maybe give me a personal tour around town.”

 

“I’ll kick your arse.” Merlin grinned when Gwaine laughed.

 

“We’ll see about that. I win, you get a drink with me, you win, I’ll teach you my ‘move’.”

 

“I win, we get dinner.” Merlin countered, just to be argumentative. 

 

“Er, alright. I, uh, I thought the Princesses were fighting over you, though?”

 

“What does dinner have to do with a potential marriage match that I’m going to argue about and probably turn down anyway?” Merlin whined, when Gwaine laid him on his bed and started pulling his boots off.

 

“I may have a reputation as a one night kind of guy, Merls, but I don’t think that would work with you.”

 

“You’re probably right.” Merlin sighed, rolling over to watch Gwaine as he’d finally peeled his eyes open a sliver. 

 

“Want me to stay?”

 

“You said you were gonna stay with me until you fell asleep, leaving me to my brooding.” Merlin pointed out, grinning when Gwaine snorted and set his boots under the bed. 

 

“Aye, I said that.” Gwaine got in bed and lay on his side as Merlin rolled over to face him. Merlin couldn’t keep his eyes open when Gwaine closed his and took a few deep breaths. The sound of his steady breathing pulled him down into a deep, dreamless sleep.

 

After Merlin spilled his secret, none of the knights of Camelot would leave him on his own. First, Gwaine trained with him, winning a few, but losing more often than not. Second, Elyan insisted on showing him how to forge daggers and talked him through imbuing the blades with enchantments that he’d seen in his travels that ensured the blades never dulled. Third, Percival insisted that he find someone, like Mordred or another townsperson, to take over lessons on basic magic and literacy since he was meant to be leading the town, not spreading himself so thin to accomplish everything on his own. 

 

Finally, there was Leon. Leon had brought Gwen to the estate and got her started training with the Princesses. Not only that, but he would start debates between the three of them, getting to hear different sides of courtly issues that both Merlin and Gwen could and would encounter. 

 

Through it all, Merlin continued to visit Morgana and sit with her silently. They would watch the sunset together before he would leave her to her writing and solitude. He sighed when he spotted a patrol approaching and sensed Arthur with them. 

 

“It’s time, then.” Morgana said softly. 

 

“Aye. Seems it is.” Merlin agreed.

 

“Do you think he’ll let me spend a few more weeks here before he wants to enforce his sentence?”

 

“I’m not sure.” Merlin shrugged. “I hope he does.”

 

“I think a fortnight would be long enough. Though longer would be nicer, now that I feel calm again. This is for you.” She passed him a stack of papers, somehow bound together. “It’s for you to read once I’m gone.”

 

“How long after should I wait?”

 

“You’ll know.” 

 

Merlin hummed and looked back out the window. He held out a hand to her and she placed hers in his. He kissed her knuckles, giving her a small bow, before leaving her alone in her vigil. He walked through the house quietly, dropping off Morgana’s notes in his study before stopping on the steps to greet the approaching envoy. The Princesses were set to depart in just a few days, along with those from Camelot. His home would be empty again, aside from his fellow knights for Queen Annis. He felt solemn as the riders entered his courtyard. 

 

“Lord Ambrosius, thank you for allowing us to intrude on your home yet again.” Arthur said as he approached Merlin, holding his hand out for him to shake. 

 

“No problem. Your journey went well, I hope?”

 

“It wasn’t unpleasant. Is your guest ready for visitors?”

 

“Aye. She’s expecting you, sire. If you’ll follow me, I can show you in.”

 

Arthur nodded and they silently made their way back into his home to the tower. When they reached the door, Merlin pushed it open and gestured to Arthur to go in. He waited at the door, much like he had when Uther died, for Arthur to reemerge. He stood still, facing out the small window where he could see the night fall and stars shine down. No one bothered him, knowing that he would be this way when it was time for Arthur to visit his sister.

 

When Arthur finally returned, he looked at Merlin in shock for a moment. Merlin merely nodded at him and directed him to his room for the night, retiring to his own to try and get a few hours of sleep before they convened the council to discuss what would happen next. 

 

He woke feeling almost more tired than when he went to bed, not surprised that none of the girls were in his room yet. Since Gwen had shown up, they had taken to not bombarding him in his room so much. He sat at the table with the King and Queens, with the knights gathered as witnesses. 

 

“Camelot extends its thanks to Queen Annis and Lord Ambrosius for their diligent work in capturing Morgana Pendragon. I have spoken with her, and she refuses to repent her actions.” Arthur said in a shaky voice. “She will be henceforth banished from the land of Albion, to return on pain of death. Do we have your support?”

 

“Aye.” Queen Annis agreed. “We support the decision made by King Arthur and Queen Guinevere. When do you intend to enact the sentence?”

 

“In a fortnight.” Arthur said certainly. “Once she is fully healed from her ordeals, we will meet once more to send her off from the shores.”

 

“Lord Ambrosius,” Queen Annis said, turning all eyes to him, “will you be able to subdue her magic, should it come to that?”

 

“Aye.” Merlin replied, inclining his head.

 

“Then it is settled. We will meet at the shoreline in a fortnight to send her into exile.” Queen Annis stated, getting to her feet and ushering everyone out of the room. Merlin remained where he was, staring at the table as if it could help him see where his life had gone so wrong that he ended up here. He barely noticed when the table blurred in his eyes as they burned. 

 

“You did all you could, sweetheart.” His mother said gently, cupping his face and making him look up at her. “But you cannot change what has happened, and you cannot make decisions for anyone other than yourself. I’m proud of you. Of all you’ve done. Come keep me company in the garden, love.”

 

“Yes, mother.” Merlin whispered, wiping his eyes as he followed her to the garden. 

 

After a few hours of work, he started to feel less burdened. His mother was right, as she often was. It was not his decision that led to his current predicament. Even if he’d changed one thing he’d done, there was no guarantee that anything would have really been different. And he wasn’t responsible for the actions of others. They were all responsible for themselves. As Arthur had been responsible for taking his anger out on him and forcing him to flee a place he considered home, he was responsible for the deceit that put him in that situation. 

 

It was past time for him to accept that. Prophecy or fate or destiny; they would happen or they wouldn’t. He let out a long breath as he let that thought sink in. As it did, he smiled when he felt his magic pulse warmly in his chest. He held out a hand and blew into it, golden sparks of light floating out and swirling around until they formed patterns that resembled creatures he’d encountered over the years. He twisted his hand toward the sky, letting his magic flow from his hand as the images increased in size, until they were lifesize and shifting over his head in brilliant displays in gold and silver. 

 

His magic pulsed in his chest once more, before it burst free and surrounded him in light and warmth. When it stopped pulsing and his vision cleared, he was standing in a beautiful garden that was full of colorful flowers and plants. 

 

“It’s beautiful.” His mother whispered, touching a flower petal gently.

 

“Huh.” Merlin said, a small smile on his face. “I … did not know that was going to happen.”

 

“Well, it’s perfect for a wedding, I do believe.” She chuckled, walking over and wrapping her arms around his waist. “Fancy a walk through town?”

 

“Sure. Sounds good.” He agreed, putting his arm around her shoulders as they left the garden.

 

Morgana was leaving Albion, Gwen and Arthur were ruling Camelot, and Merlin … well. Merlin would be waiting for them all to come back together again eventually. No matter how long it was.

Series this work belongs to:

• Part 4 of Leaving Camelot