The Secret Sharer

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

Agravain was in the middle of a rather intense dream, courtesy of Merlin and Mira-Liana who had decided to warn him to back off via a dream spell. Whether or not it would work and Agravain would heed their warning, they could only wait and see.

Agravain found himself running through a seemingly endless labyrinth, only to be stopped at every turn by magical means. Finally, he found himself bound and trapped at a dead end.

He then met the faces of his pursuers, Emrys and Emrysa, the elderly yet powerful witch and warlock, who were carrying staffs and looking him with anger and pity.

"You're not real," said Agravain, closing his eyes.

"Whatever you say!" barked Emrys.

"This is a dream! You cannot be here!" said Agravain, willing his prophesied doom to leave.

"Of course we're not really here, you foolish boy," snapped Emrysa. "But who's to say what is the dream and what is reality?"

Agravain tried to quell the fear he felt by slowing down his rapid breathing and willing his pounding heart to stop. He tried to undo his bonds, only for Emrys and Emrysa to tighten them and make him look up at them with magic.

"What do you want with me?" he asked. "Have you come to fulfill the prophecy and be my doom?"

"We did not do this in order to kill you, Agravain," said Emrys. "We wish only to talk and to warn you."

Agravain glared at them. "Talk to me? Warn me? About what?" he demanded. "Did Arthur send you?

"He did not send us," said Emrysa. "We came of our own accord."

"Your actions are causing problems," said Emrys. "You've let your hatred, grief, anger and desire to study dark magic swallow you whole, and you cannot see the goodness that Arthur has brought to the lands."

"Goodness?" he said, incredulously. "Don't tell me you're foolish enough to believe that Arthur is not his father's son! He's accepted magic, but it won't last. Uther permitted magic in his kingdom for years, but upon losing his wife to the magic, he started a war against it! Arthur will do the same!"

"No, he shall not!" said Emrysa, fiercely. "Arthur will not reignite the war between Camelot and magic!"

"You've become foolish in your old years, woman!" snarled Agravain. "As long as Arthur sits upon the throne of Camelot, magic has no true place there. It's only a matter of time before he turns against it. If you want to ensure history will not repeat itself, then you will help me gain the throne of Camelot. We can create a better world for people like us! I only want to take that which is rightfully mine!"

"My sister and I are not like you and nor does the throne of Camelot belong to you!" said Emrys, sharply. "And what kind of a world do you think your senseless behavior continues? You'd do well to stop this, Agravain."

"Arthur is the Once and Future King who will unite the lands of Albion. He is destined for so much and a Golden Age is to follow," said Emrysa. "Stop this madness or the consequences that are sure to follow will be terrible ones. Consider that next time you dare to act against Camelot. And tell your little wolf in sheep's clothing that he should not be so quick to turn on his own blood-kin."

The dream ended and Agravain awoke, breathing hard and shaking. He was back in his own hovel and Gaheris was tending to him.

"Gaheris, what're you doing here?" he asked.

"I came to talk to you and I found you trapped in a nightmare. You've been tossing and turning for the last half hour. I couldn't wake you. Drink this," said Gaheris, handing him a potion. "What happened, Agravain?"

Agravain quickly downed the potion and looked quite shaken. "Emrys and Emrysa, they were in my dream."

"That old man and old woman?" asked Gaheris, surprised. "But how can that be possible?"

"There is little magic cannot do, Gaheris," said Agravain.

"But if they were in your dream, does that mean they know where you are?" asked Gaheris, looking worried.

Gaheris shook his head. "No. Fortunately, dream spells don't work that way. I have no doubt that they're still unaware of my whereabouts."

"What happened in the dream? Do they know of our plans to kill Arthur?" asked Gaheris.

"It's worse than that. They know all our plans, about you, they know everything," said Agravain, trying not to feel sick. "They chased me down, bound me and spoke to me. Among other things, they told me to stop my plans or the consequences would be terrible."

"Someone must be feeding them information," said Gaheris. "Arthur, perhaps?"

"No, they said he didn't send them. If we're lucky, no one in that family is in contact with them. Maybe it's someone else," said Agravain, frowning. "Wait a moment, who knew about those two before Arthur sought them out on the day that Uther died? Who told him where to find them?"

"Arthur never told me how he found out their location or where they were found. I just assumed it was from a report or something."

"Maybe it was. But who else knew about them?" demanded Agravain.

Gaheris thought for a moment and then groaned. "Gaius and Mordred knew."

"What did you say?" said Agravain, sharply.

"When I first asked them if they knew about Emrys and Emrysa after the Dorocha attack, they claimed to know nothing, but they were lying! I knew they were lying!" he said, letting out a frustrated growl.

Agravain looked furious as well. "You brainless, idiotic fool!" he hissed. "You may have ruined all of our plans! Mordred is my mother's half-sister's adopted son and Gaius is those pesky twins' uncle! What did you think they were going to tell you? If they knew of anyone who'd protect their own, they would lie about their whereabouts to a potential enemy!"

"I'm sorry. I didn't know at the time when I spoke with them," said Gaheris, looking regretful. "If they're telling Emrys and Emrysa everything…"

"Good," interrupted Agravain, smirking evilly as an idea came to him. "Then they can lead us straight to our enemies."

"Surely not. Gaius and Mordred are loyal and if anything were to happen to them, their family would come after us fast and hard like a bolt of lightning," said Gaheris. "Not to mention Gaius and Mordred are very stubborn and would never willingly tell us anything."

"Who said they had to be willing?" asked Agravain.

XXX

The following morning, Mira-Liana aroused from her slumber when the rays of the morning sunlight hit her face. With a soft moan, she turned over to her husband, Arthur, who still lay sound asleep with his arms wrapped around her and her swollen stomach. There were just three months left before Igraine was born and Arthur had been even fussier than usual if possible.

As tempted as she was to sleep in and stay in Arthur's arms, she knew they had work to do, so she gently shook his shoulder to wake him.

"Arthur, dear, wake up," she said.

"Mmuhgh," said Arthur, not quite coherent yet. He yawned as he opened his eyes. "What time is it?"

"It's morning," she said. "It's time to get up."

"Must we?" he asked, kissing her neck. "I'd rather just stay here with you."

Mira-Liana giggled. "No, Arthur. Not today. We have work to do. You've got to practice your speech to give to the Guild of Harness Polishers."

Arthur frowned. "Harness Polishers?" he repeated. "I don't know anything about polishing!"

"Fortunately for you, Merlin and I do. We were commoners and your servants once, remember? Your speech is on the desk," said Mira-Liana. "It won't take long to memorize, and it's a good thing, because before that, we've got to receive Odin's envoy, inspect the guards, give a freeman's ceremony and act as judges."

"Judges? For what, a trial?" he asked, frowning.

She grinned, clearly enjoying this. "No. A garland competition."

Arthur groaned. "We never get any time to ourselves."

"Oh, stop it. We do too. We spent yesterday with the children and then last evening with just the two of us," said Mira-Liana. "We'll get another day off soon. But in the meantime, we are the King and Queen of Camelot and we have our royal duties to perform."

Arthur sighed. "Oh, all right. Fine. If we must." But he was smiling nevertheless as he kissed her and then they got dressed. "We are doing a good job, aren't we? As King and Queen, I mean."

"I think we are," said Mira-Liana. "Or at least, that's what everyone else and the daily reports say."

"That's good to here," said Arthur. "Oh, Ana, will you promise me you'll take it easy as much as possible today? I know there's still three months left before the baby's born, but you should be resting as much as you can in your condition."

Mira-Liana sighed. He drove her mad sometimes, but deep down she appreciated it all because she knew Arthur only fussed so much because he worried—how could he not, considering what had happened to his own mother—and because of how much he loved her and their baby.

"If it'll make you breathe easier, I promise I'll take it easy today," said Mira-Liana.

Arthur looked relived before kissing her. "I love you."

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

The moment they had finished dressing, there was a knock on the door.

"Enter," said Arthur.

"My King, my Queen," said Gaheris, entering the room. "May I have a word?"

"Certainly, Uncle," said Arthur. "What is it?"

Gaheris looked uneasy. "The matter I wish to discuss is a delicate one, I'm afraid."

"Go on," said Mira-Liana, somehow managing to conceal her disdain for the man.

"We know there is a traitor amongst us," said Gaheris, slowly.

"We know. We wish we could deny it," said Arthur, his tone implying much.

"We have to consider everyone," said Gaheris. "Even those dearest to us. No one can be above suspicion."

"You sound like you have someone particular in mind," said Mira-Liana, narrowing her eyes.

"Something like that, milady," said Gaheris. "Perhaps one of your Knights?"

"Preposterous," said Arthur, firmly. "The Knights of the Round Table would die before betraying us. We can vouch for each and every one of them."

"Well, I have suggested Gaius and his apprentice, Mordred before, but—" Gaheris was cut off by Mira-Liana, who looked furious.

"Gaheris, how dare you make such an accusation?" she said, angrily. "Gaius and Mordred have been nothing but good and loyal physicians of the court for several years now, devoted and trusted family to us as well us Uther, and they would never betray us!" Unlike you, you snake in the grass. She looked as if she was about to hex him into oblivion for saying such things.

"Ana, please calm down, this isn't good for you or the baby," said Arthur, placing his hands on her shoulders, calming her. "Uncle, do you have any proof of your accusations?"

"Only circumstantial evidence, I'm afraid. But—"

"But nothing," interrupted Arthur, sounding sternly. "Unless you have solid proof, you'll speak no more against them or anyone else. Is that understood?"

Gaheris bowed. "Yes, of course. Forgive me; I was merely acting out of concern. Someone is plotting against you and it's my duty to investigate every possibility. Perhaps I was too hasty."

"Then you'd do well to think before you speak," said Mira-Liana, coldly. "Now, get out of here and remember hold your tongue in the future. Now."

Gaheris bowed again and left the room.

"You realize what this means?" asked Mira-Liana, when he'd gone. "He and Agravain are planning something against Gaius and Mordred. We have to stop them."

"And we will," he assured her. "When the time comes, we'll stop them. Don't worry. Everything will be fine."

Mira-Liana's only response was to embrace him and bury her face in his shoulder.

XXX

Meanwhile, Agravain was riding off towards an island on the sea, where it contained the one person he was looking for to help in his plans.

He tied up his horse and went looking. He walked through a large market full of stalls and shops of beautiful fabrics, jewelry and many more glamorous expensive things until he came to a door and went inside the building.

"I wish to see the Catha," said Agravain, to the bodyguard before him. "He's expecting me."

The bodyguard narrowed his eyes before letting Agravain pass through.

Agravain walked around to the other side of the table the Catha was sitting at. On the table were dozens of candles and they'd apparently been burning for quite a while. The Catha, a bald man dressed in a purple and green-grey robe and hood, was praying, but he stopped after a moment.

"You're Alator of the Catha," said Agravain. "Warrior and priest."

"You are Agravain, son of Morgause and King Cenred. High Priest of the Triple Goddess," said Alator, softly. "What do you seek here?"

"I need you to abduct two people from Camelot," said Agravain.

"And why would you need that? Camelot has changed since the rising of King Arthur and Queen Mira-Liana," said Alator. "From what I hear, Arthur does not follow Uther's ways. Camelot has accepted magic and our kind are welcome in that city as long as they obey the rules set down by the High Warlock of the Council of Magic."

"Believe me, it won't last long. Sooner or later, Arthur will become his father," said Agravain, sharply. "Remember how Uther was? Magic was permitted in his kingdom for years, but upon the death of his wife at the hands of magic, he went against and magic was at war with Camelot for over twenty years. And anyway, what do the new bodies of power in Camelot matter to you? You are Catha. Such things would not stop a man like you."

"Indeed not. But why should I risk my life for the likes of you?" demanded Alator. "You, who would turn so quickly on your own blood-kin before meeting them?"

Agravain walked over to him and from his pocket, took out a beautiful bracelet that rested in his palm.

"Because they are no family of mine, and I'm willing to give you something in return," he said, holding up the braclet. "This was forged on the Isle of the Blessed by the High Priestesses. It was one of several gifts given to my mother. Its healing powers are without equal anywhere in the five kingdoms."

Alator took the bracelet and examined it. "This is true power," he breathed. "This is a precious gift indeed. The people you seek must be very important to you."

"Yes, they are. I hope they will lead me to my mortal enemies, Emrys and Emrysa," said Agravain.

"Who are these people that you would have me steal them from their beds?" asked Alator.

"They are Gaius, Camelot's Court Physician, and his young apprentice, Mordred, the adopted son of the Lady Morgana and Lord Frik," said Agravain. "But I must warn you, the ones I send you after have a sickeningly devoted family and they are powerful. You must act quickly if you agree to this, for they will hunt them down when they're missed and I daresay, it would not be good for you to be caught."

Alator paused in consideration for a moment before he made his decision. He nodded. "Then I'll do as you wish, my lord. The risks will be worth it."

"Excellent."

XXX

Later that day, an emergency meeting was called.

"Everyone, I'm afraid we have some very bad news to report," said Arthur. "Gaheris has made accusations that Mordred and Gaius are the traitors in Camelot. Though he's been forbidden to speak further on the matter, we fear that he and Agravain may try something against them."

No one looked pleased. In fact, they looked worried and angry and justifiably so, for their beloved family members.

Granted the circumstances were slightly bad—there was no doubt in anyone's mind that there was a traitor in their midst, not to mention Gaius and Mordred were highly skilled in medicine and knew a great a deal about the kingdom and what went on in the Royal Court, and their pasts were either shady or unknown—but all things considered, who would believe Gaius and Mordred to be traitors when they'd done nothing but support the Pendragon family and all of Camelot?

"What's brought this on?" asked Gaius.

"Perhaps Agravain's decided not to heed mine and Mir's warning," said Merlin. "Maybe he's scared and he thinks you and Mordred will lead him to Emrys and Emrysa."

Morgana and Frik's faces darkened with anger.

"If either of them dares to lay one finger on our son, I'll make them regret they were ever born," growled Morgana, as Frik placed a protective arm around Mordred.

"I'm not a child anymore, Mother, Father," said Mordred, looking slightly embarrassed.

"You're not of age yet, either," said Frik.

"They're right, Mordred. You're still young, and I'm an old man," said Gaius. "We are fairly good targets for them."

"Regardless, no harm is going to come to either of you," said Mira-Liana, sharply. "But please, be careful and be wary. There is no telling what lengths those men will go to, in order to obtain what they seek."

They could only hope that whatever it was that Agravain and Gaheris were planning, they would not succeed.

XXX

Alator and his bodyguard rode to Camelot and snuck into the city late that same night. They let loose a fine white stallion from the royal stables in accordance with their plans before they met with Gaheris at one of the castle entrances.

"You're late!" he hissed.

"Let us not waste time, then," said Alator.

He and his bodyguard entered through the door and then Gaheris led them to Gaius's chambers.

XXX

Gaius and Mordred were finishing up the day's work when they heard a noise.

"Merlin?" said Gaius, looking up.

But there was no sign of anyone besides the two of them in the room.

Gaius, I think something's wrong, said Mordred, worried.

Suddenly, Gaius was muffled by Alator's hand. "Sleep, now," he whispered.

"What've you done?" cried Mordred, when Gaius passed out. Without thinking, he raised his hand as his eyes flashed gold. "Mefew!"

Both Alator and his bodyguard were flung back, causing a bit of destruction in their wake, but Alator had many more years of experience and knowledge behind him and this allowed him to rise up quickly and knock out Mordred with the same spell he'd used on Gaius.

"So, it appears the boy has magic as well," said Alator, intrigued. "Interesting."

Quickly, Alator and his bodyguard picked up Gaius and Mordred and took off with them into the night.

Gaheris made quick work of the chambers, hiding several of their things to make it look as if they'd left on their own and left some rather damaging evidence in their places.

XXX

Everyone in the castle woke up at the sound of the warning bell that same night. Arthur and Mira-Liana, who'd been sound asleep, suddenly became very alert.

"Guards!" yelled Arthur.

One of the guards came into their chambers.

"What's happened? Why've they sounded the warning bell?" asked Mira-Liana.

"I regret to report that Gaius and the Lady Morgana's son have disappeared, Your Majesties," said the guard.

"What?" they said, in unison, as they placed their robes on.

"When did they go missing?" demanded Arthur.

"Just a short while ago. Lord Gaheris is requesting a search of Gaius's chambers, but no one's allowing his request until you've had a look for yourselves," said the guard.

"Good. Alert Lady Morgana, Lord Frik and my brother," said Mira-Liana. "Tell them to come to Gaius's chambers immediately."

"Yes, my Queen," said the guard.

Half an hour later, a frantic search through Gaius's chambers provided them with next to nothing that could be of use to them in finding their lost family members.

"What happened, it doesn't appear they left willingly," said Arthur, gazing upon the sight of the room. "They must've put up a fight."

"Did they? Or was it just made to look like they did?" asked Gaheris, looking smug. "Look at the evidence. Several of their things are missing and there's the incriminating paper."

"That could've been planted," growled Frik. "It's very easy to set up people if one knows what to do."

"But there's more evidence, my lord," said Gaheris. "Gaius and Mordred were seen riding away from the city."

"That's not true!" said Merlin, fiercely.

Sir Leon came in. "Your Majesties, Merlin, my lord," he said. "A white stallion's been taken from the royal stables. But there's also a report that two men were seen riding away with that horse and were traveling heavily if you get what I mean."

"Still think they're traitors, Gaheris? The evidence suggests otherwise," said Mira-Liana, her tone daring him to question her. She turned to Sir Leon. "We must organize a search party at once. Alert the Knights of the Round Table and have the Council of Magic work on any kind of spell that might help find them."

"Yes, Your Majesty," said Sir Leon.

XXX

By morning, despite many frantic and hard efforts on all sides to locate their missing family members, there was still no sign of Gaius or Mordred. A storm was brewing in Camelot—literally. Morgana was so worried and angry that she was unintentionally and unconsciously, causing a thunderstorm over Camelot.

"I don't care how dangerous it is," growled Morgana, after yet another fruitless search had been reported. She was glaring at the guards who had failed to find their missing loved ones. "I don't care what it takes. I want my son and Gaius found, and I want them found now! Is that understood?"

"Yes, milady," said the guards, bowing in slight fear as they left.

"Morgana, my love, please calm down," said Frik, sighing. "You're making a storm."

"What? Oh. Sorry." She took a deep breath and after a few moments, she calmed down and the storm ceased.

Mira-Liana looked at her sympathetically. She was just as worried and upset as Morgana, but was staying calm for her baby's sake and because Merlin was soothing her through their magical bond. Morgana was acting the way every mother did when her child was lost. It was only to be expected.

"I hope they're all right," said Merlin, biting his lip in worry.

"Don't worry, we'll find them," said Arthur. "We'll bring them home soon."

They had to believe in that. If they didn't, Gaius and Mordred were as good as lost.

XXX

Alator and his bodyguard took Gaius and Mordred far into the land of Camelot and then placed on enormous stone slabs deep within a dark cave.

Gaius and Mordred slowly stirred when they heard a familiar voice say, "You've had a difficult journey."

It was Agravain and he looked very smug indeed.

"You must be tired. But I'm not sorry to say that the both of you must wake up. It's time for the fun to begin," said Agravain.

This only got him dark glares from them both.

"Whatever you're going to do, Agravain, do it. We're not afraid to die," said Gaius.

"And here's a word of advice, traitor, if you're going to do anything to your enemies, do it. Don't stand there talking about it like an idiot," snapped Mordred.

He would've sprung them both free if he could, but Alator's spell keeping them in place was a strong one and they were both still weak from the sleeping spell.

Agravain smirked. "Now why would I kill you when it's far too easy when you're like this? I wouldn't be in such a hurry to die if I was either of you. This man here is going to help me get some information," he said, beckoning to Alator. "Information I know the two of you are unwillingly to give."

"And what might that information be?" demanded Gaius, narrowing his eyes.

"Nothing really," said Agravain, casually. "I just want you two tell me the true identities of Emrys and Emrysa and their whereabouts."

Gaius and Mordred paled as the old man squeezed his young apprentice's hand to quell his fear. They feared not for themselves, but for Merlin and Mira-Liana.

"We know nothing of either of those two," lied Gaius.

"Oh, I think you do," said Agravain, smugly. "They tried to save Uther and they are my enemies, which means they are your allies. You fools would do anything to protect your loved ones."

"It's better to die for the people we love, rather than kill them for the sake of revenge!" hissed Mordred.

Agravain's face lit up with anger as he got very close to Mordred's face. "You'd do well to hold your tongue, boy!"

"Leave him alone!" barked Gaius. "Do what you will to me, but leave Mordred alone."

Agravain rose up. "Can't do that, Gaius. He's far too valuable and whatever you refuse to say, I'm sure he will. Younglings' minds are so easy break. Especially when it's done by the hands of a Catha, a Priest of the Old Religion, who's as skilled as Alator is."

There was no reply as Agravain started to walk off.

"I'll leave you to your work," said Agravain, to Alator. "Inform me when you've gained what I seek."

"Yes, your grace," said Alator.

And with that, Agravain and Gaheris, who'd been watching from a dark corner, left the room.

Alator set to work.

A magical fire encircled them both, making them panic a little.

"Do not resist the fire," he said. "Let it into your minds. Let the flames search out your thoughts. Let them burn into the darkest recesses of your mind. Let them chain a torch on your deepest secrets. Bring them to the light."

XXX

Meanwhile, Merlin poured over every page of every book in Gaius's library trying to find something that could help them in their search. The missing possessions had been found, thankfully, but everyone else would prefer finding the people they belonged to.

He was kneeling down on the floor, reading a paper when he heard the door open. Eagerly, he looked up and saw that it was Gwen instead.

"I thought I might find you here," she said.

He smiled a little. He was glad to see his beloved wife, but he still missed his dear old uncle and Mordred. "I thought you were them," he murmured.

"I know, I'm sorry," said Gwen. She knelt down beside him and wrapped her arms around him, holding him close and giving him the desperately needed strength and comfort he craved. "We'll find them, Merlin, I know it."

"It's been nearly twenty-four hours already, Gwen," said Merlin, slightly muffled as his face was buried in the crook of her neck. "What if something's happened to them at the hands of Agravain and Gaheris? What if there is no hope?"

"There's always hope," insisted Gwen. She pulled back and cupped his face in her hands. "You taught me that, remember? We believe in you and Mira-Liana. We know you'll succeed."

Merlin smiled, feeling somewhat better as he kissed her soundly on the lips. "Have I mentioned today how much I love you and how wonderful you are?"

Gwen smiled back. "I love you too."

XXX

Later that same night, Mira-Liana and Merlin searched through Gaheris's chambers as a last resort, hoping they would find some clue as where Gaius and Mordred were being held.

Any luck in searching his cupboards? asked Merlin.

No. I've found nothing, said Mira-Liana, frustrated. You?

No, I—wait, said Merlin. He was searching under Agravain's bed and pulled out a box. Mir, I found something. Come take a look.

Mira-Liana knelt beside him as they grabbed hands and magically opened the locked box. Inside was a map of certain area of the kingdom and one of the locations on the map was circled in black ink.

Well, what do you make of that? said Mira-Liana. How much you want to wager this is where Gaius and Mordred are being held?

No bet, said Merlin. I don't recognize that area though. We'll have to show it to one of the others. They might know where this is.

Mira-Liana pocketed the map after they relocked the box and placed it back where it belonged. We'd better get out of here.

Hang on, what's that on his boots? asked Merlin, frowning. He picked up one of Gaheris's boots and wiped off the smear on it with a handkerchief from his pocket.

Is that ore of some kind? asked Mira-Liana, frowning.

Yes, and I think it might be from wherever Gaius and Mordred are, said Merlin, carefully folding the handkerchief.

Just then, the door rattled and Gaheris came in.

Quickly, the twins hid before Gaheris could find them. They watched him from the mirror that was in his room.

On the count of three, we knock him out with a spell and get out of here, said Mira-Liana. Agreed?

Agreed, said Merlin, as he grabbed her hand. One…two…three!

They incanted a spell in their minds and were able to send Gaheris unconscious via the mirror and escape from his chambers without any further troubles.

XXX

They went back to Gaius's chambers where everyone else was waiting for them. Arthur looked both relieved and anxious to see them.

"Where've you two been?" he demanded.

"Searching through Gaheris's chambers," said Mira-Liana. "Don't worry, we weren't caught, but he won't be waking until tomorrow morning. The spell we used to knock him out was a tad strong."

Arthur sighed in exasperation and gave Merlin a look.

Merlin threw up his hands. "Don't look at me. It was Mir's idea and we both know arguing with her is pointless."

"That and you wanted to help me and keep me safe, which you did," said Mira-Liana, earning a smile from her brother.

"Did you find anything?" asked Lancelot.

"Plenty," said Merlin.

He and Mira-Liana placed their findings on the table.

Gwaine sniffed the handkerchief. "That's iron ore. Where'd you find this?"

"It was on Gaheris's boots," said Mira-Liana.

"And there's only one place in Camelot where iron ore can be found," said Arthur, tapping on the marked area of the map. "And that's right here."

"I know that place. That's the Ridge of Camery. Camelot's been getting its iron there for centuries. That's where I get metal for the forge," said Elyan.

"And it's where we'll find them," said Mira-Liana. "Merlin and I will ride out there immediately. Gwaine, Lancelot, will you accompany us?"

"You don't even have to ask," said Lancelot, as he and Gwaine rose up.

"Ana, are you sure this is wise? Maybe I should go in your place," said Arthur. "This could be dangerous, and I don't want to risk losing you or our baby."

"You won't," she assured him. "The Knights will keep me safe, and I can handle myself. Besides, we're the King and Queen now. Camelot needs you and Merlin needs me because we're more powerful combined."

Arthur still looked worried. "I still don't like this."

"Then fret no more, because Frik and I've found a solution to your worries," said Morgana. She placed silver bracelet with the Pendragon crest and a ruby and a sapphire on it, onto Mira-Liana's wrist. "If anyone or anything tries to harm her or the baby, an impenetrable shield will form and protect them both."

Arthur looked relieved and a little less worried at this. "Thank you."

"It's beautiful. Thank you," said Mira-Liana, smiling. "Thank you both so much."

They smiled back at her.

"Just promise us you'll bring Mordred and Gaius home safely," said Frik.

"And you all must come back safely," added Morgana.

"We promise," said Merlin.

And with that, the four of them rode out on Camelot's four fastest horses, hoping to find their loved ones and stop their enemies.

XXX

Meanwhile, Alator continued his work.

Gaius and Mordred had yet to reveal anything, but Alator knew what he was doing. He would get the information regarding Emrys and Emrysa whatever it took.

"Feel the fire roar deep within you," he murmured. "Feel your thoughts begin to simmer. Rather than flee the rushing flames, let them run like burning oil. Let them escape. Allow them free, Gaius, Mordred. Tell me, who are Emrys and Emrysa?"

His only response was a soft whimper from them both and then he felt a small surge of magic from Mordred, but it was not an attack. It was something else entirely.

XXX

Merlin, Mira-Liana along with their trusted friends and Knights soon arrived at the entrance of the cave. They lit some torches and entered the dark cavern, unaware that Agravain was returning and had followed them.

Suddenly, Merlin and Mira-Liana stopped in their tracks when they heard a magical cry from Mordred.

Emrys, Emrysa, you must escape! Alator is trying to find out who you are for Agravain! Leave us! Save yourselves.

Mordred, no! cried Mira-Liana. But there was no response.

She shared a worried glance with Merlin, and then with their Knights.

"What happened? What's wrong?" asked Gwaine.

"It's worse than we thought," said Merlin. "Gaius and Mordred are being interrogated to find out about Emrys and Emrysa."

"Then we must move quickly," said Lancelot.

XXX

The magical fire from before was gone, but Alator was not yet finished with his job. He stood in between them and spoke into their ears.

"Tell me about Emrys and Emrysa," whispered Alator. "Tell me, Gaius, Mordred, where can we find Emrys and Emrysa?"

Gaius and Mordred tensed more and acted as though they were having bad dreams. For a moment neither of them spoke, but then…

"In Camelot," said Gaius.

Alator was pleased at finally gaining some results. "Where in Camelot?" he asked.

"By Arthur's side, where they've always been and will always be," said Mordred.

Alator frowned in confusion. "How can that be? There is no one by those names at the King's side."

"Emrys and Emrysa are the names by which they are known to the Druids, but we know them by very different names," said Gaius.

Alator's eyes widened. They had different names? "Then tell me more."

"No, we will not betray them!" cried Mordred, as Gaius closed his mouth up tight.

Alator patted their shoulders. "This is not a betrayal. I merely wish to know the legend of these people to whom you are so loyal to. Just tell me, who are they?"

"They are the most powerful witch and warlock who have ever lived," said Gaius.

"What are their names?" pressed Alator. "Who are they?"

"They are the only son and daughter of Balinor, the Dragonlord. Their names are Merlin and Mira-Liana," gasped Mordred, as his eyes shut tighter.

Alator let out a gasp as shock and surprised overwhelmed. Arthur's Queen and Chief Advisor were Emrys and Emrysa and Balinor's kin? But how could that be possible?

"Tell me more, please," he begged.

"The Druids' legends are true. Merlin and Mira-Liana are Emrys and Emrysa," said Gaius, softly.

"They are two people, brother and sister, united by the bonds of family and magic, and who are destined for greatness. They are a man and a woman who will unite the powers of the Old World and the new," said Mordred. "And bring about the poets and practitioners speak of, the time of the Golden Age of the Once and Future King."

"The time of Albion," whispered Gaius.

Alator didn't know what to think as he was overwhelmed by all he had discovered.

XXX

Gaius and Mordred's rescuers hadn't gone too much farther into the cave when Alator's bodyguard suddenly popped out of nowhere and attacked.

"We'll handle him. Get back, you two!" cried Lancelot, as he and Gwaine fought off the man.

The bodyguard was about the size and strength of Percival and apparently, just as deadly with a blade.

The two knights fought him until the twins were forced to intervene by sending him flying with a spell and knocking him out.

"We'd better split up," said Merlin. "Lancelot, you and Gwaine go that way. Mir and I will go the other way. We'll meet back at the horses."

"Agreed," said Gwaine, nodding. "Watch yourselves."

"You too," said Mira-Liana.

She took Merlin's hand in hers as they went down one of the many paths in the cavern.

After some time, they were met by Agravain, who tried to attack them, only to be blocked by Mira-Liana's shield, which kept not only Mira-Liana and her baby safe, but Merlin because he was holding her hand.

"You really are thorns in my side, aren't you? You pesky brats," growled Agravain, as he drew his blade. "Well, it seems I'm going to get three birds with one stone. Who would've thought it? When will you learn that you really ought not to meddle in things you couldn't possibly understand?"

He flung at them, only for them to magically send it into a rock before it could hit them and before the magical shield could arise.

"Nice try, but we were moving objects with magic before we could talk, Agravain," growled Merlin, as they circled around each other like wolves.

"You're lying!" yelled Agravain. "Your powers are nothing compared to that of my own!"

"Enough of this foolishness!" said Mira-Liana, angrily. "What've you done with Gaius and Mordred?"

"Those two had some information that I needed the whereabouts of the sorcerer and sorceress known as Emrys and Emrysa. If they gave it to me willingly, their suffering would not be prolonged, but if he did not…" he smiled evilly at the looks on their faces.

"If you have harmed either of them, you will pay!" said Merlin.

"Why're we discussing their fates when it's time to decide yours?" said Agravain. "Not whether you two die alone in this heaven-forsaken pit, that's going to happen anyway, but how and more precisely, how painful."

Alator then appeared, making them stop in their tracks.

"Ah, Alator," said Agravain, pleased. "This is Merlin and Mira-Liana. They're commoners turned nobility and have but a little magic to their names. They're just pesky twins, but they're the peskiest people I've ever known. I take it your time with Gaius and his apprentice was well-spent and fruitful?"

Throughout his little speech, Alator never took his eyes off Merlin and Mira-Liana, who were silently pleading with him to do the right thing.

Alator turned to Agravain. "Gaius and Mordred told me everything albeit unwillingly."

Oh, please no, whispered Mira-Liana. If Agravain knew who they were now, or worse if Gaius and Mordred had been hurt or killed in the interrogation process…

It's going to be okay, Mir, I promise, said Merlin, as he tightened his grip on her hand.

"So you know who Emrys and Emrysa are?" asked Agravain, looking hopeful.

"Indeed I do," said Alator, narrowing his eyes. He then walked over to where Merlin and Mira-Liana stood. "Not only do I know who Emrys and Emrysa are, I know exactly where they are."

"Then tell me!" ordered Agravain.

Alator turned his gaze from the twins, to Agravain and he looked defiant. "Never." He quickly aimed his staff at Agravain and blasted him, sending Agravain flying into a wall of rock and knocking him out.

Merlin and Mira-Liana immediately stepped back, and looked at Alator warily, not quite sure what to think. This man had helped them, yes, but he had also kidnapped two of their beloved family members and interrogated them for information that could've gotten them all killed.

"Merlin, Mira-Liana," said Alator, looking regretful. "I am Alator of the Catha. I am honored to be of service."

"You expect us to believe that when you kidnapped and nearly killed two of our own all because Agravain, our sworn enemy,asked you to do it?" said Mira-Liana. Normally, she might not have been so furious with him, but being six months with child and nearly sick with worry and fear for her loved ones made her temper very short and easy to lose.

"I know and I'm sorry. I beg from the bottom of my heart for your forgiveness," said Alator. "I know of the burden you carry. I have lived with it all of my life. I have been shunned, persecuted, and sometimes even hunted in every corner of the five kingdoms! I understand what that feels like. Despite hearing talk of what has happened in Camelot under the new rule because of my sufferings, Agravain had me convinced that Arthur would be like his father."

"Arthur is nothing like his father," said Merlin, fiercely. "You could've just come to Camelot to be free to be yourself."

"I know that now," said Alator, as tears pooled in his eyes. "But you must know that neither of you are alone. From what Gaius and Mordred told me, I do not have your great powers, you two, but I share your hopes. You have started the world that had long been prophesied, but more is yet to come. For I and others like me have dreamt of the world that you work to build and we would gladly give our lives to help you do it."

He then bowed before them, astounding them and moving them to tears as well. After a moment, they approached him and placed their hands on his shoulders as they knelt down to his level.

"Rise, Alator of Catha," said Mira-Liana. "You have our full forgiveness and you are welcome in Camelot."

"If Mordred and Gaius forgive you, then I believe that the Council of Magic has a position open. Perhaps you would like to fill it," said Merlin.

Alator lifted his head up and smiled at them as he disposed of the bracelet Agravain had given him. "Thank you, Emrys and Emrysa. Now, come with me. I believe your Knights have your family members waiting for you at the horses outside."

They quickly found that Alator was right. Gaius and Mordred had been found by Lancelot and Gwaine and they were waiting outside.

XXX

Gaius and Mordred were immediately returned to Camelot, where they were welcomed back with open arms and many hugs and tears. Morgana and Frik fussed over Mordred to the point where they swore they'd never let him out of their sights again. Thankfully, they were just tired and needed to sleep. They would be fine within a few days' time. Mordred and Gaius had accepted Alator's apology and had forgiven him. The same could not be said for themselves, however.

Merlin and Mira-Liana went to pay them a visit while they were recovering. They were in Gaius's chambers, taking it easy by sorting herbs and reading.

"Morning, you two," said Mira-Liana. "You're looking much better. How're you two feeling?"

"Physically, we're fine. Emotionally, not so," said Mordred, looking regretful. "We're ashamed. We swore to never reveal your secrets and we did just the opposite."

"You can't blame yourselves," said Merlin. "It wasn't your choice. And we'd rather have our secret revealed than the two of you dead."

"But if Agravain had found out—" began Gaius, but he was cut off.

"He didn't," interrupted Mira-Liana. "And besides, Agravain failed to account for Alator's true loyalties. We should just be glad that you're both alright and everything's okay."

"Nevertheless, we worry one day we'll let you both down," said Mordred.

Merlin and Mira-Liana's hearts clenched as they sat by their favorite physicians and took their hands.

"Gaius, Mordred, listen to us very carefully, you could never let us down," said Merlin, seriously. "You're loyal to us, and more importantly, you're family and we love you. We stick together no matter what."

This made them cheer up quite a bit.

Tears pooled in Mira-Liana's eyes. "If anything, we were the ones who let you two down. We promised to protect you both and we failed. You could've been killed because of us. We're—"

"Don't you dare," interrupted Gaius, sternly. "Don't you dare take this on yourselves."

He and Mordred both looked very fierce.

"You didn't make us choose to be loyal to you and the kingdom. That was our choice and our choice alone. We'll always stand by you and Arthur," said Mordred. "If it wasn't for you two, Camelot would've fallen by now. Gaius wouldn't be so happy now, and I wouldn't be in the family that I'm so proud to call mine. We're alive and happy because of you and Arthur."

"You should know that there's nothing we wouldn't do for you and the rest of our family," said Gaius. "You're blessings to this kingdom and to us."

This brought smiles to Merlin and Mira-Liana's faces.

XXX

When evening fell again, after kissing her children good-night, Mira-Liana got into bed and waited for Arthur to join her, which he eventually did. He took her into his arms and held her close.

"What happened with Gaheris?" she asked.

Arthur had had a private chat with his uncle a little while ago.

"Nothing much," said Arthur. "He's apologized, said he seriously misjudged Gaius and Mordred and is glad that he was wrong about them."

"Yes, I'm sure he is," said Mira-Liana, sighing. "Though, who knows what he and Agravain will do next?"

Arthur kissed her head. "Don't worry; I have a feeling Gaheris won't be around for much longer." They only kept him around so that they could keep an eye on him and they felt that he'd find another way into the castle even if he was exiled.

"Well, at least he and Agravain didn't succeed. We're all safe and all's well for now," said Mira-Liana.

"Indeed," said Arthur. "I'm glad Gaius and Mordred are all right. Camelot needs them and we'd all be lonely without them here."

Mira-Liana nodded and then she let out a gasp as she clutched her stomach.

"Is everything all right?" asked Arthur, looking worried.

She nodded again. "Yes, everything's just. Igraine definitely has your strength. She kicked me pretty hard that time. I think she's trying to say good-night."

Arthur chuckled as he placed his hands over Mira-Liana's and then he felt their baby girl kick again. He then kissed Mira-Liana. "I love you both so much," he said.

"We love you too," said Mira-Liana, returning the kiss.