"NO! Father!" Merlin cried. "You can't die! You can't!" Behind him, Arthur stood awkwardly, out of hearing distance.
"Come closer," Balinor whispered to Merlin. "I have something to say."
Merlin leaned his head closer, tears in his eyes. Balinor whispered into his ear. "What?" Merlin gasped. "No- it can't be- Are you sure?"
Balinor nodded slowly. "I am," he rasped out. "And when his plan succeeds, he will be the most powerful person alive. You must stop him."
"I'll try," Merlin whispered. "Just don't leave me."
"I believe in you, son. And- I am sorry."