Drowning in Magic
Summary: Based on Uther's "visions" in 3x01. Rosslyn and James are two ordinary siblings, born with magic. It was a simple fact, like knowing their names. But when the Great Purge begins, Uther will stop at nothing to rid Camelot of these two children.
Chapter 1
Nimueh pulled the hood of her cloak up as she alighted from her horse. Although a welcome guest in Camelot, she did not wish to be disturbed by helpless peasants tonight, begging for her help with worthless matters.
The small cottage was alive with the glow of candles that lined every surface. As she pushed the door open, two children threw themselves at the sorceress.
"Nimueh, you came back!"
"We've missed you so much!"
Nimueh smiled at the two children, now clutching at her robes as she moved inside. It had been almost ten years since she started visiting, yet she never tired of the sight of the children. Rosslyn, now eleven, was a picture of innocence with bright blue eyes, pale skin and cheeks that had a permanent blush to them. Long hair tumbled down her back in loose waves the colour of chocolate. James, on the other hand, had a mischievous look about him. His eyes were the same colour as Rosslyn's but were hidden by his untidy hair, and his skin was almost always covered in dirt. He was nearing five now.
A young woman appeared at the end of the cottage, from behind a tattered curtain. Her tired face broke into a smile at the sight of Nimueh.
"Genevieve," greeted Nimueh. She rummaged in her cloak for a moment, and produced a sack bulging with food.
"Thank you, Nimueh!" exclaimed Rosslyn, grabbing the sack. She groped around inside and her face lit up as she pulled out an apple.
Genevieve shook her head as the two children began fighting over the food. "I can't thank you enough, Nimueh. You put food in my children's mouths; offer them a future. Is there nothing I can give you in return?"
At this Nimueh, hesitated and moved closer to Genevieve. "I am not just here to bring food tonight. The other Priestesses have been telling me to do this for some time ... I know it will be hard, but-"
"You have come for Rosslyn," breathed Genevieve, grasping at the wall for support.
"I am so sorry," said Nimueh, "but Rosslyn has powerful magic and needs to learn how to control it, use it. Her skills are now strong enough that we can begin to teach her these things. We hope that one day James will follow too."
Genevieve closed her eyes. "I do not grudge you for this, Nimueh. Rosslyn will have a better life by far with you than with me. She will not have to become a servant at the palace, just to feed herself and her family. I just ... I just didn't realise it would come so soon."
The two women glanced over at Rosslyn, who was teaching James how to levitate the bread so that it hovered above their heads.
"Take care of her," whispered Genevieve, clasping Nimueh's hands. A single tear slid down her cheek.
"I will," promised Nimueh. She turned to Rosslyn. "Pack your clothes, my dear. It is time."
