This is a first fic, so please be gentle. The setting takes place in Season 4 just after Lamia.

Disclaimer: I do not own Merlin.

Prologue

The cries of her clan were nearly drowned out by the sounds of battle and the tearing of the earth behind her as she ran deeper into the maze of tunnels. Skathach could feel her heart pounding in time with the swelling thrum of magic as she grew closer to the heart of Caladholg, the mountain home of the Curoi Clan. She could feel each pulse, calling upon her, drawing on her strength as she pushed her way through the group of terrified women and children, desperate to reach the central chamber to join her magic with that of the other Wardens of the Curoi as they raced to complete the ritual. She could feel the magics of each Warden, like a separate melody, or an individual thread being woven together; the stoic power that was Cathbad, her mentor and the leader of the Wardens sparkling clearly in her minds eye, and though it all, the thrumming power of the Crown.

With a surge, Skathach pushes her way through the last of her huddling kin and swiftly turns the corner to the final corridor that leads to the great chamber. The dozen Guardians that stand within the hall hold their spears at ready for the enemy that would soon follow behind her. Without hesitation, she continues forward, the Guardians nodding their heads to her in small honor as she moves by on her way to the door behind them that is filled with a growing golden glow casting ever deeper shadows. The Guardians serve the Wardens, who in turn serve the Crown. It was always the way of things since the day the Crown was first entrusted to the Curoi in times long past. She used to think that would always remain the way, that is, until today. Don't think about it. You know your duty.

Steps away from the door she skids to a halt as her path is suddenly blocked. The magic within the chamber is so strong now, the chanting filling her mind, it takes a moment before she even recognizes the large solid form of her father before her, a spear in each hand. "Father what…"

"Skathach." His gravelly voice interrupts her before she can even begin to ask, as he thrusts one of the spears to her to take, and slides as small travel pack from his shoulder to hand to her as well "There is little time. Your mother Foresaw that you would need this."

"But father, the ritual…"

"I know what the ritual does. But your mother Saw it and I won't question her last vision. She said that you'll need it, so you WILL need it." His tone, one of such finality, she suddenly finds herself feeling like a small child again and all thoughts of disagreeing fade. The severe crags of his face suddenly lighten for a moment in a sad tenderness "You have always done us proud daughter. Your mother has already made her journey to the shores of Avalon today, and I shall join her soon. One day we'll meet again in the Fortunate Isles." And with that, he steps by her, his face growing hard as he prepares to face the enemy a final time.

At that, she suddenly feels the full reality of the moment, as the sorrow and horror of the day threaten to engulf her. After this day the Curoi will be no more.

A swell in the chanting in the chamber beyond sends a shock of magic through her and jars her from such dark thoughts. Pushing her feelings down, she steps into the room, letting herself open to the magic within and to take her part in the ritual. As she begins to add her voice, she vaguely hears terrified cries of the women and children, followed by the battle cry of the Guardians behind her, her ears easily picking out her father's voice among them. Focus on the ritual, you'll see your family again soon enough.

The other Wardens stand in a circle, arms raised as they chant the words of the Old Religion. Without thought, they make space and Skathach smoothly fits into place among them, one arm raised while the other holds the spear and satchel from her father. As she properly joins the circle, she feels a sensation almost like that of a click and the magic seems to shift, no longer a rhythmic throb, but a swirling rush like a whirlpool drawing upon all within the circle. Looking before her, she can see the pedestal upon which the Crown has rested for centuries, centered in the circle; the Crown itself glows, growing ever brighter and floating above it, lifted by the magic of the ritual, the swirl of energy focused upon it.

Seconds or lifetimes pass, she's no longer certain of which, as she stares at the simple circlet adorned with two sapphires floating before her. Feeling a pull, her eyes tear away to look upon Cathbad, across the circle from her and with a jolt, she makes eye contact with him.

Skathach, it is time. She hears Cathbad's calm voice within her mind as she sees the edges of his mouth turn to a smile while he continues to chant. We have chosen you to be the Messenger.

Confusion at his words briefly skitters across her thoughts before she suddenly finds herself cut out of the ritual, staggering forward to collapse on her knees with a gasp. After a moment's disorientation, she looks back up to Cathbad, meeting his eyes once again. Cathbad, I don't understand!

You must bring word of Caladholg's fall to Camelot. The time of the Once and Future King is near, and Emrys must be warned. The rest of us shall complete the ritual, and the Crown shall be kept safe for now, but Emrys must claim the Crown before the Winter Solstice. If he does not, the Witch shall gain its power, and the dream of Albion will die in darkness. The hope of Albion is with you now.

Time suddenly slows around Skathach, as the power within the room thickens with golden motes.

The eyes of the Wardens and Cathbad flash gold a final time and then close as they start to fall.

The Crown flashes, becomes a dagger, and appears to fade like mist.

A dark haired woman stands in the door, blood drips from a dagger in her hand, dark magic twists about her, green eyes glint in maddened rage and she roars in denial.

The world explodes in gold, rushing wind, and howling fury.

Time starts again, and Skathach stands alone in moon shadowed woods.