Siblings of Prophecy Season V

Arthur's Bane Part One

Disclaimer: I don't own Merlin

In a land of Myth and a time of magic,
The destiny of a great kingdom rests on the shoulders of two young people,
Their names,
Merlin and Mira-Liana

Three years had passed since Agravain's last attempt to seize the throne of Camelot. In those three years, all had been peaceful and prosperous for Camelot and her people. Camelot grew more and more every day and all those who lived there were happy and content. The Royal Family's children continued to grow and were happy. Gwen and Merlin had been blessed with another son, little William Elyan, who was loved by all.

It seemed as though everything was perfect. But alas, the three years of peace were at an end.

At the moment, a meeting of the Knights of the Round Table was about to take place. There was news to be told and it was far from good.

"Noble knights of Camelot, countrymen, friends," said Arthur. "I welcome you to this meeting of the Round Table. For three long years, we have been blessed with peace and prosperity. But now it seems a shadow has been cast across our lands. Sir Gwaine set off for Ismere some six weeks ago and with him went three score of our finest men. There has been no word from them since."

"At our request, Sir Elyan and Lord Frik led a search party to the north," said Mira-Liana. "He found no trace of Sir Gwaine or his men. It's as if they have vanished from the face of the earth. Efforts to locate them with Scrying Spells have provided to be fruitless, which lead us to believe that they are either dead or magically cloaked. Whichever it may be, it can only mean that our world is in danger once again, but whether it is an old enemy or a new one, we cannot say."

Unease and a grim silence fell upon them all at these words.

XXX

Meanwhile, unknown to all, Agravain had not only survived and was alive, but he had found himself a new ally, a Druid by the name of Ruadan. Agravain had barely survived his last attempt to seize the throne of Camelot. For the last three years, Agravain had been plotting his revenge and waiting for the opportune moment when he could enact his plans.

For the past six weeks, he'd been stealing Camelot's knights with relative ease and taking them away to his newest hideout in the frozen wasteland of Ismere. He was most displeased when he brought back Gwaine, who was alive but out cold, from the snow-covered lands.

"The last of the knights of Camelot," murmured Ruadan.

Agravain just scoffed as he walked and was followed by his ally. "Don't be so daft as to think he is the last. Arthur and Mira-Liana will no doubt send more knights. But when, I cannot say. If there's one thing I don't like, it's not knowing."

"Calm yourself, my friend. There's nothing to worry about," said Ruadan.

"You're wrong. There is plenty to worry about," snapped Agravain. If there was anything he had learned, it was that a man who worried too little was a fool. "We're running out of time and we cannot underestimate those Pendragon scum. If Emrys and Emrysa get involved or if the dragons are called, we're doomed."

"You don't know that for certain. Besides, prophecies do not lie," said Ruadan. "Arthur's bane is real and once it is known to us, we cannot lose. He will fall and you will take your place on the throne and then seize your father's lands as well."

"So you keep saying, but yet you cannot tell me who or what Arthur's bane is," growled Agravain.

"The Diamair will tell us," said Ruadan. "The Diamair is the key to all knowledge."

Agravain narrowed his eyes as he sat down. He was growing impatient and irritated. "And just where, pray tell, is this key?"

"It is beneath your feet," said Ruadan.

Agravain just scoffed. "Forgive me if I'm skeptical of that after three months of fruitless searching."

"It is but a moment compared to the eternity of knowledge the key will bring," assured Ruadan.

Agravain growled yet again as he tightened his grip on his armrest. "If I find that you've been lying to me, Ruadan, I will have you executed."

Ruadan didn't look the least bit worried. "Patience is the stepping stone to wisdom, Agravain."

Agravain angrily rose up from his seat. "You think that I don't know that after all that I've been through?" he hissed. The very walls shook from his anger. "For far too long, I saw nothing but darkness. Patience and I are old friends."

Just then, the door opened and Agravain's guards dragged in Gwaine, who was weak and barely conscious. Still, he was smiling his usual cocky smile as he slowly sat up.

"Lord Agravain," he said. "I say it's a pleasure to see you, but we both know that's a lie. You've got a face only a mother could love."

Agravain glared as one of his guards punched Gwaine in the face, sending him down on his back. Agravain then cast his cold gaze upon the fallen knight.

"You're hardly one to talk about looks when you don't look so pretty yourself right now, Sir Knight," said Agravain.

"So it would appear," said Gwaine.

"Your King and Queen should know better than to send their men so far up north," said Agravain.

Gwaine just rolled his eyes. "If you're going to kill me, then stop driveling and do it before I die of sheer boredom."

"Oh, believe me, Gwaine. You will die, but not now and not from 'sheer boredom.' But first, you're going to do something for me," said Agravain, sweetly.

And with that, Gwaine was taken down below with the rest of Camelot's men, who were slaving away deep in a mine beneath Agravain's hideout, searching for something worth far more than all the worldly wealth in the world.

XXX

Later that same day, Arthur, Merlin, Mira-Liana, and Gaius were having a private meeting with Lancelot, Elyan, Gwen, Morgana and Frik as they went over a map.

"We know Gwaine and his men crossed the path here at Tesoful, but beyond that, there was no trace of them," said Elyan. "The trail went cold. Not even Frik's magic could pick up anything."

"Which means whoever took them was a skilled practitioner. Cloaking Spells are difficult to perform and it's even more difficult to hide from Camelot's magic practitioners," said Morgana.

"What of the rumor that the fortress of Ismere is once again occupied?" asked Arthur. "Is there any truth to that rumor?"

"We believe it to be true. I searched many places in disguise and heard many names. They all had one thing in common: Agravain," said Frik, grimly.

No one looked pleased to hear that. For three years, Agravain had not been seen nor heard from, and there had been moments when they'd believed they were finally rid of him.

"Then we have no time to lose. We must set out at once," said Mira-Liana.

"But if it's true, then you will most assuredly be walking into a trap," said Gaius, concerned.

"Trap or no, we do not abandon our own," said Arthur, firmly.

"Arthur's right. Agravain may be expecting us, but we cannot leave these men to his mercy. They're our friends, our family. They've stood by us, fought for us and done so much more. We owe it to them to help them," said Merlin.

"May I make a suggestion?" asked Gwen. She knew there was no hope in dissuading her husband to go on such a dangerous mission, but she could help a little. "What if you take a different route, approach Ismere through the west?"

"Through Annis's lands?" said Arthur.

"It would certainly take Agravain by surprise," said Gaius, thoughtfully.

"But would Annis grant safe passage for so many armed men?" asked Mira-Liana, frowning in concern.

Lancelot nodded. "I believe she would. Especially if she knew why," he said.

"Then that's settled. Leon, dispatch a rider immediately. We set out at dawn," said Arthur. "Remember, if we're to succeed, no one must know of our intention."

Everyone nodded in agreement and left the room. Mira-Liana and Merlin accidentally bumped into Sefa, Frik's new maidservant. She was a shy, timid young girl, yet sweet. The collision caused her to drop the tray of food she was carrying, but thankfully the twins' instinctual magic, prevented any diasters. The fruit and the tray froze in mid-air.

"Oh, excuse us," said Mira-Liana. "We're terribly sorry."

"Oh, no. I'm sorry, Your Majesty. I should've been looking where I was going," said Sefa, as they quickly gathered the fruit and the tray before the spell wore off. "I'm so dreadfully clumsy. I'll never get used to this work."

"Nonsense. You're doing fine. Trust me. Mir and I were far clumsier when we worked for Arthur and besides, you've got a good master. Frik's great," said Merlin, smiling.

Sefa smiled. "Well, thank you, sir."

The two of them smiled back before joining Arthur. After packing what they needed and saying good-bye to their children, they all set off with more than a dozen men to the realm of Queen Annis.

XXX

Gwaine shivered as he worked alongside Percival. The caves were freezing and they had little warm clothing. His hands were sore and blistered, his back was screaming in agony and his legs ached like mad. But he held his tongue and did not complain. Instead, he whispered to Percival, "Did you find the others?"

"Yes," whispered Percival.

"Do you know what we're looking for?" asked Gwaine.

"Some kind of key. I don't know what, but the men say Agravain's obsessed with it," said Percival. "He won't rest until he finds it."

"Let's hope he doesn't succeed, then," said Gwaine. "Is there anything else you know?"

"Just one thing," said Percival. "Word is, Agravain has some kind of beast that's loyal to him. No one really knows what, but sometimes I hear growling like I've never heard before."

Gwaine looked concerned. "That's not good."

"Indeed not," agreed Percival.

XXX

The King and Queen of Camelot along with their fellow riders came to a stop in their journey as they approached an enormous and dangerous gorge.

"The gorge marks the start of Annis's territory. It's the prime spot for an ambush," said Arthur. "Elyan, take some men and follow the ridgeline. The rest of you, are to come with me."

Everyone obeyed and soon, Arthur's half of the traveling party was going down into the gorge.

"Are you alright, Ana?" asked Arthur, noticing his wife's silence. "You're awfully quiet."

"Yes, I'm fine. I just don't like this place. It makes me nervous," said Mira-Liana. She detested gorges as they always made her worry. "And I've got a bad feeling about all this."

Arthur reached over from his horse and held her hand. "Don't worry. We'll be fine, I promise."

But alas, he spoke too soon as Elyan returned with his half of the traveling party, looking grim.

"There's something you should see," he said.

They rode until they came upon a village carved into the stone and many a lifeless form lying on the ground. It was a terrible sight to behold.

"What in heaven's name happened here?" asked Merlin, looking horrified.

"We don't know. It was like this when we arrived," said Leon.

Arthur looked grim. "Everyone, spread out and search. See what you find! Don't go anywhere alone. Who or whatever did this might still be lurking."

Everyone obeyed and went off in twos and threes as they searched around the village. There was little sign of a fight, yet something had occurred. But what?

Merlin and Mira-Liana, who were doing a search of their own, froze when they heard a noise.

Emrys…Emrysa…

Mir, did you hear that? asked Merlin.

Yes. I think it's coming from in here, said Mira-Liana. She tightly gripped her brother's hand as they entered a small cavern.

They journeyed deep into the cavern and eventually came upon a fallen man, laying near a pool. He was bald and though covered with thick, warm clothing was quite pale and his lips were tinged with blue. On his wrist was Druid mark covered with a strange yellow mark.

Suddenly, the man's eyes shot open and he tightly grasped Merlin and Mira-Liana's hands, startling them. But the man looked equally startled, if not more.

"Easy, easy, it's alright," soothed Mira-Liana. "You're safe."

"Who's done this to you, to your village?" asked Merlin.

"That it happened at all is all that matters," he said, faintly. "I have been haunted by this moment for many years, since long before the two of you were born, Emrys, Emrysa."

Merlin and Mira-Liana exchanged uneasy looks of dread.

"I have waited for its arrival with sorrow in my heart," he said. He then sat up and his grip tightened. "Even as Camelot flowers, so are the seeds of her destruction are being sown. The prophets speak of Arthur's bane. You would do well to fear it."

"You mean Mordred?" asked Mira-Liana, remembering the time when Kilgarrah's father had warned them of Mordred's destiny. "He would never harm Arthur. He's family."

The man shook his head. "The Great Dragon only knew of one possible future of that boy, Emrysa. Mordred's fate was changed when you saved his life and accepted him as your own family. Arthur's true bane stalks him like a ghost in the night. Unless you both act quickly, soon not even your combined powers will be able to stop the never ending wheel of fate."

The man then breathed his last and his hand that had been gripping Merlin's arm fell into the pool beside him. All at once, the pool's water changed to reveal a terrifying vision of the future. Though they desperately wished to, neither Mira-Liana nor Merlin could tear their eyes away.

In the pool, they saw a battlefield and many a fallen knight. There was fire, cries of war and of deep sorrow, and worst of all, there was a man they did not recognize strike down Arthur with a cold look on his face.

Suddenly, they were pulled out of the vision by Arthur's voice. He was standing in front of them and looked concerned.

"Are you alright? What happened?" asked Arthur.

"Nothing good," said Merlin, breathing hard.

This was the third time they'd seen the future and they had no doubt that it would be like the first two times—horrible and heart wrenching.

"The man told us…" Quickly, Mira-Liana told him what had happened.

Immediately, Arthur hugged them both. "We cannot be certain that this vision will come to pass. The future is what we make of it. Remember what Igraine said, the future is what it's meant to be."

"But who's to say that the vision we saw is the same future Igraine came from?" asked Merlin as he pulled away. He felt sick to his stomach just thinking about the vision.

Mira-Liana wrapped her arms around Arthur's neck as she buried her face in his hair. "Arthur, twice we've seen the future and twice what we've seen has come to pass. We can't let this future happen. I can't lose you." If she lost her true love, her heart would be broken forever and she didn't want her children to grow up fatherless as she had. And if Arthur fell, everything they'd fought so hard for would fall with him.

"And you never will," said Arthur, softly. He then kissed her gently. "No matter what happens to me, I'll always be with you forever, I promise. I love you."

"I love you too," said Mira-Liana.

Arthur's words brought some small comfort to them as they left the cavern and buried the fallen villagers.

XXX

That night, sleep did not come to Merlin and Mira-Liana as they were both worried. Knowing they needed advice, they carefully rose up and snuck away before calling upon their old friend.

Kilgarrah arrived most swiftly and looked concerned. "Your call sounded urgent, young ones. What is it that troubles you so?"

"We need to know about a Druid mark," said Merlin. "A black spiral with a thin yellow coil."

"It is the mark of Avatis, a Druid Seer," replied Kilgarrah. "Where did you encounter him?"

"It was on our journey here," said Mira-Liana. "He warned us of Arthur's bane."

Kilgarrah narrowed his golden eyes. "His bane?"

"And then he showed us a vision of a horrible battle. Arthur was fighting for his life and not only was he wounded, but he was slain," said Merlin, grimly. "We didn't recognize his killer."

Kilgarrah looked somewhat troubled. "Avatis' power is unmatched, even by a High Priestess."

That information did not settle their fears.

"So, this battle will come to pass? That's the future that my daughter Igraine came from?" asked Mira-Liana, horrified.

Kilgarrah shook his head. "I did not say that. I do not know the future and although there are some moments in time that are unpreventable, there are even more that are not. Time is always moving and can easily be changed. But this was no chance meeting, of that much I am certain."

"So, we're to heed his warning?" asked Merlin.

"There was a time when Avatis's visions were a gift," said Kilgarrah.

"Then why do they feel like a burden?" asked Mira-Liana.

"Wise people are not cowed by knowledge, Mira-Liana," said Kilgarrah. "Instead, they use it to guide them. Only you can decide how you will use this information you have gained. Until then, I advise that you be cautious with the knowledge you've obtained and remember that you were singled out for a reason. The future must always be considered with delicacy, but it is the present that you focus on for the moment. You are stronger when you are united than divided, and now more than ever, the two of you are the only ones who can keep Arthur safe."

Kilgarrah's words brought little comfort to them as they thanked him for his time and said their good-byes.

XXX

The following morning, they arrived at Queen Annis's castle. The aged Queen was smiling as they bowed and curtseyed to her in her throne room.

"Queen Annis, it's a pleasure to see you again. Thank you for allowing us safe passage," said Arthur. "You have our sincerest gratitude."

"The pleasure is all mine, Pendragon, and how could I do anything else for you? We are allies and friends, after all, and these are perilous times," said Queen Annis. "Please, join me for a meal. You must all be hungry after such a journey."

"Indeed. Thank you," said Mira-Liana, gratefully.

At the banquet, Queen Annis spoke quietly to Arthur, Merlin, and Mira-Liana. By now, she had been told of what they had encountered on their journey to her castle.

"What you saw at Asgerath is no surprise. Some months ago, Saxons began raiding our villages. They're rounding up all the men they can find and taking them to Ismere," said Queen Annis.

"For what? An army?" asked Merlin.

Queen Annis shook her head. "People say that Agravain is tearing the citadel apart searching for something. But I dare not think what."

"Whatever it is, it's nothing good as far as that man's concerned. But he's using people for slave labor, then it's possible that our men may still be alive," said Mira-Liana. Gwaine and the others might not be dead.

Queen Annis nodded and then a smile came over her face. "Queen Mira-Liana, I don't suppose it would be too bold to ask for you and your brother for some entertainment?"

"You want us to perform magic?" said Merlin, surprised. True, sometimes they did little things for their children or the young people Camelot, but they'd never been asked by royalty to perform.

"If you wouldn't mind," said Queen Annis. "I love magic and I think the mood of the evening could be lightened. And I have heard that you two are the best at magic."

I think Frik would disagree, said Merlin, as a teasing smile crossed his face. He thinks he's the best.

Indeed, said Mira-Liana, smiling. I think this might be fun. Aloud, she said, "It would be a pleasure, Your Highness."

She and Merlin rose from their seats as a round of applause went on and then ceased as they took their places in the center of the room.

Merlin and Mira-Liana joined hands as they incanted a spell under their breaths and their blue eyes flashed gold.

Flower petals fell from the ceiling but vanished before the touched the floor. Smoke took on the form of a dragon that actually lit a candle. Mira-Liana turned Merlin into a rabbit and then made him vanish before making him reappear. Merlin then transformed a volunteered into a bird whose wings changed color before undoing the spell.

Finally, they made a handful of seeds bloom into a beautiful bouquet of flowers, which they gave to Queen Annis. She accepted it with a broad smile on her face as their audience applauded and cheered them on. None looked happier than Arthur, who was laughing and smiling.

XXX

Meanwhile, Sefa was serving dinner to the acting regents of Camelot. While Arthur and Mira-Liana were away, Morgana and Frik were in charge of the kingdom. Mordred was having a meal with Gaius and the children while Gwen ate with Morgana and Frik.

"Sefa, have you anywhere to be tonight?" asked Morgana.

"No, milady," said Sefa, shaking her head.

"Would you like to join us for supper?" asked Frik.

Sefa turned a faint shade of pink as she looked down at her hands. "I'm your maidservant, my lord. It isn't my place to dine with you. It would be improper."

"We won't tell if you don't," said Gwen. "Please, join us. You're our friend and there's plenty of food to go around."

Sefa could see they would not be dissuaded, so she sat down and partook of small portions of the meal. "Thank you. This is most kind."

Frik just smiled.

"Gwen, you've barely eaten a thing. What's wrong?" asked Morgana, concerned.

Gwen's plate of food had barely been touched at all.

Gwen sighed. "I'm just worried about Merlin, that's all. You'd think I'd be used to him leaving by now." It was not the first time Merlin had left her to protect their family and Camelot and it certainly wouldn't be the last. She knew he had responsibilities and duties and he always promised to return, but it didn't get easier. "The children miss him and so do I."

"It's never easy to let the people you care for leave. You love him and he loves you. I'm sure he finds it difficult to leave you and your children as well, ma'am," said Sefa.

Gwen nodded. "I'm sure. Do you have anyone, Sefa?"

"Yes," said Sefa, nodding. "But it's not someone I can talk about."

"Ah, secrets. Something we know all too well," said Frik, thoughtfully.

Sefa reached over and squeezed Gwen's hand. "I'm sure Merlin will return, Gwen. Love is the most powerful thing in the world besides magic."

Gwen smiled. "Thank you."

XXX

But Sefa was lying through her teeth when she claimed to have nowhere to be that night.

As soon as she was able, she snuck away in her hooded cloak through the southern gate, unaware she'd been spotted leaving by Amora, who was listening to Mordred tell her, her siblings and cousins some bedtime stories.

Sefa journeyed deep into the forest outside the city gates, slightly afraid and cold. She walked until she came upon some ruins where her father, Ruadan, was waiting. She came upon him as he was kneeling down chanting, apparently in some form of meditation.

All at once, the torches went out and Sefa found a knife at her throat. "It's me!" she gasped, terrified. "It's me, Father."

Ruadan immediately lowered his blade.

"Forgive me, I didn't mean to scare you," said Sefa.

"Fear is in here." He tapped his left temple. "No one can make you feel fear except for yourself."

Sefa just nodded.

"You have something to tell me?" he asked.

"Yes. Arthur has set off for Ismere with his Queen and Chief Advisor," said Sefa.

Ruadan didn't look surprised. "I expected as much. Agravain said they were devoted to friends and family. It will be their downfall."

"But there's something else. They're approaching through the west, through Queen Annis's lands," said Sefa.

Ruadan looked a little startled. "You're sure of this?"

"Yes. I heard every word," said Sefa.

Now Ruadan looked concerned and he began to gather his things.

"Should I come with you?" asked Sefa.

"No. Your disappearance would cause suspicion. You need to remain where you are for now until I say otherwise," said Ruadan. He then frowned. "They haven't ill-treated you, have they?"

Sefa shook her head. "No, they've been very kind to me, Father." She then bit her lip. "Father, is this truly the right thing to do? Camelot is flourishing with magic and Arthur seems to be unlike Uther. They're good people and the children are wonderful."

Ruadan shook his head. "You're wrong, my daughter. Uther allowed magic in his kingdom once. He even had a High Priestess live with him and his wife. But once magic claimed a life he loved, he became a monster and destroyed so much of our world. Arthur will be no different. Pendragons are only good for one thing—death."

And with that, he left the ruins and went to warn Agravain.

XXX

When Ruadan arrived, Agravain knew at once that something was wrong. He rose up from his seat with a look of fear on his face.

"What's happened?" he demanded.

"Arthur and the twins are riding for Ismere as we speak," said Ruadan.

"Impossible! I've had sentries posted at the border for weeks!" said Agravain.

"They're approaching from the west, through Annis's lands," said Ruadan. "They mean to surprise you and they will be on us within less than a day."

Agravain didn't look pleased. "Are Emrys and Emrysa with them?"

"Not to my knowledge, no," said Ruadan.

Agravain paused for a moment and then smirked evilly. "Well then, prepare for battle. We'll ride tonight!"

Ruadan bowed. "Yes, my lord."

XXX

In Camelot, life went on.

Amora and Merrick were six years old by now and their little sister, Igraine, was three. Dawn Lily and Thomas Balinor were around the same age, and William Elyan was just a few months younger than Igraine. By this point, the Royal Children were well progressed in their magical skills and were generally well loved by all who knew them. They had wanted to accompany their parents on their journey to retrieve some of their favorite uncles, but the King and Queen had gently refused as it was too dangerous for children.

At that moment, while Merrick was reading with Frik, Morgana was helping Amora and Igraine dress and prepare for the day, something they usually did with their mother.

"Aunt Morgana, is Sefa alright?" asked Igraine.

"I believe so. Why wouldn't she be?" asked Morgana, as she finished tying blue ribbons in Amora's hair.

"Mordred said she was acting strange this morning and I saw her leave the city," said Amora.

Morgana frowned in concern as she began brushing Igraine's hair. "She left? When?"

"Last night. I saw her through the window," said Amora. "She looked worried."

Morgana didn't like the sound of that. She wanted to believe that sweet Sefa was merely meeting a forbidden sweetheart, yet she had a feeling there was more to it than that.

XXX

When morning came, Arthur and the others resumed their journey. Before departing, Queen Annis warned them that Agravain was consumed by his hate and desire for revenge and cautioned them to be careful as she had no desire to lose good allies or good friends.

When they made camp that night, while everyone else was talking and laughing around the fire, Merlin and Mira-Liana went off on their own for a moment before Arthur joined them.

"You've really got to stop wandering off without telling them. You know it worries me," he teased.

"Sorry, old habit," said Mira-Liana, chuckling. Then her smile faded and she briefly looked at the knights.

"I know that look. You've both been too quiet and that's never a good sign. What's wrong?" asked Arthur.

"We've got a lot on our minds, that's all," said Merlin, sighing. "With what we saw, what Kilgarrah said and what we're up against, we're wondering if it would've been better if Mir and I hadn't just gone off on this mission alone. We wouldn't be risking so many lives that way."

"We wouldn't be risking you. Your bane is nigh," said Mira-Liana. Though she was not letting her fear and worry consume her and had placed it in the back of her mind, she'd been unable to get the vision out of her head. Life was so much simpler and easier without foreknowledge of the future.

"Look, I know you're worried and you have every right to be, but as you once told me, worry is not a wise counsel. We all know that even if you had gone off alone, I and all the knights would've come after you," said Arthur. "You both mean more to me and this kingdom than you'll ever know."

"We know," said Merlin, smiling softly.

Arthur clapped Merlin on the shoulder before taking Mira-Liana's hand in his. "Come on. Let's get some food in you and then some sleep. You look like you're about to pass out and you're so thin, you'd probably blow away with a gust of wind."

That made them both laugh and they ended up having some playful banter and feeling less worried than before.

He's right, you know, said Mira-Liana. She was curled up at Arthur's side and Merlin was near her.

About what? asked Merlin.

We need to be cautious, but we can't let our worry consume us. We're walking into danger, but we've done it many, many times before. We have strengths that Agravain doesn't and we don't know for certain that what we saw will come to pass. I think that as long as we stand together, we'll be alright, said Mira-Liana.

United we stand, agreed Merlin. Just like always…

XXX

The next day, the happiness and amusement of the previous night faded quickly, as while they were all packing and preparing for the day's journey, some of the horses let out frightened noises, which made everyone draw their blades and the twins take defensive stances.

Suddenly, more than a dozen armed and armored men appeared and had them surrounded as Agravain rode in on his fine black stallion. They were outnumbered by far and there was only one thing to do.

"RUN!" yelled Arthur.

Quickly, Arthur and the knights fled before they were forced to fight while Merlin and Mira-Liana reacted with their magic. They made several of their enemies fly backwards and caused many weapons to burn along with many snakes to attack. With Excalibur at his side, Arthur slew many of their enemies before he was taken down from behind in a cowardly way by Ruadan.

He'd been struck down hard on the head with a dangerous weapon and was not only injured, but quickly losing consciousness and would've been slain had Merlin and Mira-Liana not stopped their own attacks on Agravain's men and ran to help him. They slung his arms over their shoulders and ran from the battlefield. While they didn't wish to leave behind their friends, they along with every single knight knew that the king had to be protected at all costs.

Several hours later, Arthur woke up. By now, they were hidden in a valley covered with moss and rocks. "What happened?" he asked.

"You don't remember?" asked Merlin, surprised.

"The last thing I remember was trying help Leon," said Arthur. He winced after touch a spot on the back of his head. "Ow."

"You got hit from behind by a coward. Agravain's men had us outnumbered and we had to get out of there. We were lucky to escape with our lives," said Mira-Liana. She gently applied an ointment to the back of his head. "You might have a headache, but you'll be alright."

"So, in other words, we saved your neck as usual. Nothing new," said Merlin.

Arthur smiled the tiniest bit as they helped him to stand. "It seems I'm indebted to you once again."

"So it would seem," said Mira-Liana. "Come on, we need to get going before we're caught. The sooner we reach Ismere, the sooner we can save the others. But, for goodness' sake, be careful, Arthur. If Agravain doesn't kill you, we will."

"Killing the king is treason," said Arthur, as they resumed their journey.

"Who said anything about killing a king? We were talking about killing a prat," teased Merlin.

"I heard that!" said Arthur, laughing.

And with that, they resumed their quest.

XXX

Meanwhile, some of their men had managed to escape the ambush and had journeyed back to Camelot to report the incident. No one looked happy to see that Arthur, Merlin and Mira-Liana were missing from the group. In fact, they all looked worried, especially Gwen and the children.

"What happened? Where're the others?" demanded Mordred, when they arrived.

"We walked into an ambush. Agravain and a band of Saxons attacked us as we crossed the border into Ismere," said Lancelot.

The children looked frightened as Gwen became pale.

"What about Merlin, Mira-Liana and Arthur?" she demanded.

Elyan sighed. "We tried to protect them, but there were too many. We were outnumbered and had little time to react. Even magic could only do so much."

"What're you saying?" demanded Morgana.

"Some time during the battle, they disappeared. We found no trace of them," said Lancelot, regretfully. "We don't know if they're alive or dead."

William began to cry as Gwen knelt down to comfort him and her other children while Mira-Liana's children clung to Mordred's leg with tears in their eyes.

"How could this have happened? How could Agravain have known they were approaching from the west?" asked Gaius, frowning.

"There's only one explanation. Someone betrayed us," said Morgana, gravely. "And I think I know who."

XXX

Meanwhile, Gwaine was snooping around. The previous night, he'd seen a bright flicker of light and had heard the sound of something hissing in another cavern. Naturally, his curiosity had been aroused and he decided to see what he could find out.

He carefully snuck through and began searching for the source of the light and noise, only to be caught by the guards. Normally, Gwaine could hold himself in a fight, but being weary from lack of proper sleep and food and so much work, he was defeated and his vision went black as he was being beaten by two enormous guards.

When the guards had left and Gwaine lay unconscious, he was healed by a mysterious creature, that was white, glowing brightly as the moon and was unlike anything one had ever seen before.

XXX

The following morning, Arthur and twins were aroused from their slumber when they heard the sound of hoofbeats above them. They'd taken shelter for the night in a small hole almost concealed in the small hill and underneath an enormous tree.

The three of them stiffened when they heard Agravain ordering for them to be found no matter the costs. When their enemies were gone, they breathed a little easier and resumed their long walk.

"Wish we could just fly on one of those dragons," murmured Arthur. "It'd make the traveling go a lot quicker."

"Yeah, but Kilgarrah wouldn't like it. He thinks dragons shouldn't be ridden like horses unless it's an emergency," said Mira-Liana.

"Unless Camelot's future is at stake, he won't allow it. And besides, Saefir and Aithusa wouldn't dare disobey him. He's their guardian," said Merlin.

"I know, but still…" said Arthur.

Mira-Liana then tripped and suddenly, the three of them were snagged in a rather uncomfortable net.

"Well, this is embarrassing," said Merlin.

"Shut up, Merlin. I can't reach my sword. Ana, can you cut the ropes with a spell?" asked Arthur.

"I already tried. It's coated in an anti-magic potion. We can't cut it and you can't use your sword without killing us all," said Mira-Liana, as she squirmed uncomfortably.

"So, we're stuck here until whoever set the trap comes back," said Arthur. He sighed. "Swell."

They were in for a very long day and night.

XXX

Meanwhile, Sefa was being brought before Morgana and Frik, along with Gaius, knights of the Round Table and the Council of Magic, as there was no doubt in anyone's mind that she had betrayed them all. The servant girl was placed before the acting regents, whose expressions were somewhat cold. Sefa looked terrified and was putting on an innocent face.

"What've I done?" she asked, timidly.

She had right to fear, for few dared to arouse Morgana's wrath.

"Sefa, the night before Arthur set out for Ismere, there was a meeting of the King's privy council," said Frik. "Did you hear what was said?"

"No, my lord," said Sefa, shaking her head.

"And yet you were standing right outside the door," said Morgana, as she narrowed her eyes. She'd seen the servant bumped into her in-laws. "And you came in as soon as we were finished talking."

"I was bringing you and your husband supper, my lady," said Sefa.

Nobody believed her as she was truly one of the most dreadful liars.

"Later that night, where did you go?" asked Frik.

"Nowhere," said Sefa.

Both Frik and Morgana looked stern and shook their heads. They knew she was lying.

"Don't make this hard on yourself. All we want is the truth. You can either tell us willingly or we'll be forced to perform a Truth Spell," said Morgana. "We all know you left the city through the southern gate. Do you deny it?"

Sefa timidly shook her head.

"Who did you see?" demanded Frik.

Sefa didn't reply.

"Very well. You leave us no choice," said Morgana. She muttered an incantation as her eyes flashed gold. "Tell the truth. Who did you see, Sefa?"

"My father," said Sefa, looking horrified as she spoke. "I saw my father."

"You told him everything, didn't you? Why?" demanded Frik, furiously.

"Why shouldn't I? He's my father. It's my duty as his daughter to help him. I only sought to make him happy as this is the only thing he's ever asked of me. He only wants what's rightfully his. He believes Arthur will be his father's son and bring about the same destruction and misery to this world as Uther did when Queen Igraine died. He's a powerful sorcerer who deserves respect!" said Sefa.

"Respect is to be earned!" yelled Morgana, angrily. She understood Sefa's loyalty to her father, but it didn't justify her actions. "It cannot be bought with bloodshed. And you do think Arthur would really turn his back on magic when he's fully aware of all the good it's done this kingdom and his own family are magic practitioners? My brother is many things, but he is not Uther and he never will be. You were welcomed here, treated like one of our own, and yet you betrayed us. Do you even realize what you've done? Your treachery has cost the lives of many good men and you may have robbed innocent children of their parents!"

Morgana did not actually believe Arthur, Mira-Liana and Merlin were dead, but she had to make the situation clear to Sefa so the girl would fully understand the consequences of her actions.

Sefa looked ashamed and upset. "I-I didn't mean…"

"You have admitted your guilt," interrupted Frik. His normally calm and happy posture was gone and he looked deeply hurt and angry. "By the laws of Camelot, we find you guilty of treason. You will be marked by a member of the Council of Magic and then you will leave Camelot after you have served a term in the dungeons. Should you ever return to Camelot, the full penalty of the law will be forced upon you and you will be sentenced to death."

Sefa looked terrified and tried to protest, but no one listened as she was then marked by one of the Council of Magic and then trapped within the lowest of the prison cells.

XXX

It was morning by the time Arthur, Mira-Liana and Merlin got out of the net trap. They'd been asleep, but were awoken when the trap was suddenly cut down and they landed painfully on the forest floor and were surrounded by the trap's makers.

"I'm sorry. Did we wake you?" asked a bearded man, mockingly.

The trio moved to defend themselves, but Mira-Liana suddenly found herself with a knife pressed against her throat, as did Merlin. Arthur was forced to release his grip on Excalibur to protect his loved ones as they were bound and gagged.

The bearded man smirked evilly. "Not so fierce now, are you? We know who you are. You're the King and Queen of Camelot and the king's Chief Advisor and Head Warlock of the Council of Magic. You'll fetch a pretty price, alive or dead. Any last requests, King?"

"Let my wife and brother-in-law go. They don't deserve to die," said Arthur. "Let me say good-bye to them."

He just scoffed. "You think me a fool? I know all about your little family, Pendragon. I know what those two are capable of. I'll not hear one word out of them and nor will I release them. I don't fancy being cursed for the rest of my life." He moved as if to kill Arthur with his own blade, but then…

"Stop!" yelled a voice.

They all turned to see a young man with a Druid mark on his wrist approach them. Merlin and Mira-Liana stiffened as they recognized the young man as the one they'd seen in the vision. This man was Arthur's bane.

"These people are Lord Agravain's most sworn enemies and therefore, he should be the one to decide their fates," he said. He snapped his fingers as his eyes flashed gold and the trio found themselves bound with their binds attached to a cart.

The man gazed at them. "I'm a little surprised you don't know me. I would've assumed Mordred mentioned me at least once. We knew each other well before he joined up with the likes of you."

"Who are you?" asked Arthur. How could he possibly know Mordred?

"My name is Mordaunt," he said. "And for the rest of the journey, you will speak only when spoken to. Lord Agravain has been quite anxious to see you again."

They had little choice but to follow him, but the sense of unease did not leave them.

To Be Continued…