Disclaimer: I do not own 'Merlin'. I only own OC characters!
Rating: T for language & fight scenes.
A/N- Please note - You will still be able to follow this story without knowing the TV episodes :)
The general consensus was that you wanted a slightly longer wait to get longer chapters, so here we go! :)
A/N- Thank you SO much TheWickedHeart & The-Darkened Abyss for your reviews! I really appreciate them and love to read them! Thank you also to all of those who have added this story to their alerts or added it as a favourite!
Thank you to my fantastic beta GemStoneLovely :)
~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~
Chapter 13: Aithusa
Arthur had understandably been very downtrodden since the death of his father and his coronation. Aria had watched his interactions carefully and she noticed that he didn't seem to smile and joke as much as he had before. She guessed it was largely due to the fact that he had lost his father and the sudden influx of Kingly duties had tired him out. It had only been just over a week, after all.
I wonder if Agravaine knew that there would be an assassination attempt. I'm concerned because Arthur goes to him for advice increasingly more. What if Agravaine is blinding him to go down one particular route? We must keep an eye on him, but for now, all seems well.
Aria sighed as she continued chopping ingredients. I wish there was some way we could re-energise Arthur. I wonder if we could slip a re-energising potion into his drink…
"Morning Aria."
Aria jumped lightly, "Oh, good morning Merlin. Sorry – I was in another world just then."
He chuckled, "That's alright. What were you thinking about?"
"Arthur."
Merlin looked surprised, "Arthur?"
"Yes. I was wondering if there was some way we could give him a re-energising potion, to help him with all of these new duties. He seems very tired recently and Gwen's really worried about him."
Aria missed the look of relief that flitted across Merlin's face.
"I see. I think that's a good idea. I can definitely slip something in his drink, if you like?"
"And who are you thinking of drugging Merlin?"
Merlin jumped at the new voice behind him, "Hi Gaius." He grinned, "Arthur."
Gaius's left eyebrow rose, causing Aria to stifle a giggle. I always find his facial expressions funny – you'd think I'd be over it by now.
"And pray tell, why are you thinking of drugging Arthur?"
Aria butted in, "I noticed Arthur seems stressed lately, so I thought it might be a good idea to give him some re-energising potion. I know he is unlikely to take it, as he says he's fine, but if we could somehow get him to drink it…"
"And that's where I came in. I can slip it into his drink one day." Merlin ended, grinning.
"I see. I suppose that would work. I too feel the King is in need of a little… boost."
"Great!" Aria grinned, "I know just the potion to give him - I'll work on it right now."
Gaius chuckled and then turned towards Merlin, "And why are you here Merlin?"
Merlin's ears tinged pink, "I-I was just coming to say hi – see how everyone was…"
Gaius raised his eyebrow again.
"So… I better get back to work. Bye Gaius, bye Aria!" Merlin ran out the room as if Arthur were chasing him.
Aria laughed, "I don't think Merlin needs a re-energising potion!"
"Indeed." Gaius shook his head but he was smiling.
Aria turned back to her cutting, finished off what she was doing and cleared her desk, ready to begin on making the re-energising potion.
I hope this helps Arthur, even just a little bit.
~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~
Merlin stirred at the sound of voices. Groggily he sat up in bed and rubbed his eyes.
Who could be visiting Gaius at this time of night? I don't recognise their voice.
Creeping quietly towards his door, he peeked through the gap to see who the stranger was. The man who was talking to Gaius was tall with dark hair. He had a beard and unkempt clothes and looked like he hadn't slept well in weeks.
"A dragon's egg, Gaius."
Merlin perked up. A dragon's egg? What? Isn't Kilgharrah the last dragon?
"Don't you see? I have two parts of the Triskelion and when I get the final piece, I will be able to locate the egg in the legendary Tomb of Ashkanar."
Tomb of Ashkanar? I've not heard of that place before. Merlin managed to glimpse Gaius's face. Gaius knows of it – I can tell by the look on his face. Does this mean he knew about the dragon's egg? Why would he not tell me?
"It's here, in Camelot. In the vaults beneath your feet." Merlin saw Gaius look down at his feet.
"I won't help you, Borden. You must leave it well alone."
"But Gaius-"
"No. I won't be part of it. Please leave."
The man sighed and turned around, "Well, if you change your mind I'll be in the tavern in the lower town."
Gaius closed the door behind him and sighed.
I have to speak to him about this.
"Who was that?"
"He is Julius Borden." Gaius turned away from Merlin and started gathering his equipment together, to pack them away for the night.
"He mentioned a dragon egg. Is there really another dragon Gaius?"
Gaius looked up, "I believe there could be. Ashkanar's wealth was equal to none, so it would not surprise me if he had acquired an egg."
"Then I must meet with Borden and get the egg."
"No, Merlin. You must leave it well alone." Gaius sent him a pointed look, "Borden is not to be trusted."
Gaius walked away, indicating that he had nothing else to say.
I must speak to Kilgharrah, to see if this dragon egg could still be alive – and whether or not it even exists.
~0~0~0~0~0~0~
Aria woke up to the usual light streaming through the thin, cloth curtains next to her bed. She stretched and lay there for a moment, feeling truly at peace.
That was a big stretch. Now, if only I could have a lie-in…
No sooner had she thought it, Gwen walked passed her and exclaimed, "Aria, you're running late! We have to leave for the castle soon – get up and dressed already!"
"Ugh, alright. Give me a moment." Aria groaned in response.
Dragging herself up from her bed, she shivered at the slight chill in the air. The weather's getting a bit colder. It's still not as bad as back home though, so that's a bonus I suppose.
Getting dressed as quickly as she could, Aria scooped her hair up into a ponytail and met Gwen by the front door.
Gwen gave her a small frown, "Aria, you're so pretty, you should wear your hair different some days."
Chuckling, Aria replied, "Thanks, Gwen. But it's alright, it'd only get in my way otherwise. Besides, I've never been that great at doing hair."
"Hm, I'll have to put your hair up for you one day."
"Alright, thanks." Aria grinned at her friend and together they made their way up to the castle.
Saying their goodbyes at the courtyard, Aria made her way to Gaius's.
As she approached she heard raised voices inside. I know I shouldn't eavesdrop, but I'm curious…
Leaning her head towards the door she heard Merlin and Gaius arguing about a dragon's egg. Did Merlin just say dragon's egg?
Not being able to hide her curiosity any further, Aria barged into the room. Merlin and Gaius immediately stopped talking and turned towards her.
"I'm sorry - I just… did you say dragon's egg?"
Merlin looked sheepish, "I guess we were talking quite loudly."
"Yup. So, dragon's egg?"
Gaius sighed, "I'll leave this for you to tell Merlin, I must head out for a while. Remember, don't do anything rash."
With that, Gaius smiled at Aria and left.
"So…"
Merlin beamed at her, "There is another dragon's egg – a man called Borden is looking for it and I want to help him so that I can release the dragon."
Aria's eyes boggled, "A man wants it? He's probably up to no good, I don't think you should trust him."
Merlin shook his head, "I don't think so, but I will take the egg from him once he leads me to it anyway."
Aria rolled her eyes, "Despite the obvious unethical reasoning behind that, why hasn't the egg been found before?"
"Apparently there's a druid artefact called the Triskelion, which was broken up into three pieces to prevent the opening of the Tomb of Ashkanar. That is where the egg is hidden."
Did Merlin just speak in English?
"I think I did…" Merlin sent Aria a confused look.
"I'm sorry, did I say that aloud?" Aria laughed, "I mean, why hasn't anyone found this Triskellie thing before?"
"Triskelion." Merlin corrected, "It was hidden in different parts of the Kingdom, to stop someone from finding the egg."
Aria nodded slowly, "I see. So this Borden guy has the Triskelion and wants to find the egg? Then, when he does, you'll take it from him?"
"That's the premise, I suppose. But Borden doesn't have the full Triskelion yet."
"The full one?"
Merlin rubbed the back of his head, "Yes… the three pieces I mentioned. He has two of them and needs to get the final piece."
"How does he plan to do that? If it's so well hidden, surely finding it will be difficult? You can't just leave Camelot and go on a quest in search of it."
"That's just it – it's here. In Camelot. I just need to sneak in and grab it."
Aria's eyes opened wide, "Really? Where?"
"Umm…"
"Where, Merlin?"
Merlin chuckled nervously, "In the vaults."
"What?!" Aria exclaimed, "You want to break into the vaults of Camelot? For a random man you don't know and who Gaius evidently has a disliking for?!"
"Gaius doesn't dislike him that much…"
Aria gave him a 'yeah right' look, "Merlin, I saw his face when he left the room and how you two argued – he obviously disagrees with your choice of helping this man, so I can deduce that he does not trust him."
"I suppose you're right. But I can't let this opportunity pass me by! I've spoken to Kilgharrah and given my word that I will find it and bring the egg to him."
Aria rubbed her temples. I can see this plan going horribly wrong.
Merlin continued, "I've promised Kilgharrah. The only thing left to do is speak to Borden and help him get to the egg."
"But Merlin-"
"It's my duty as the last Dragon Lord to do this. I have to, Aria."
Why doesn't he ever listen to Gaius? No good ever comes from ignoring Gaius.
Aria sighed, "As there's no changing your mind…"
"No!" Merlin grinned, "It'll all work out, I promise."
"Hm."
"I better go find Borden now."
"What if he doesn't want your help? What if he doesn't want to speak to you?"
"I have my ways…"
"Merlin…"
He chuckled, "I'll just tell him I'm the personal manservant of King Arthur, which means I have access to the vaults. Speak to you later, Aria."
"Alright." She sighed waved at him, "And Merlin."
"Yes?" He looked back at her one last time.
"Don't do anything stupid."
~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~
The next day, Aria was making her way to the kitchens early in the morning to grab some garlic from Cook's stores without her knowing, when she saw a shifty looking Merlin creeping around. Curious, she followed after him.
What's he doing up so early? Arthur wouldn't be woken for at least another hour, so what is he doing? I hope this isn't related to Borden. Though, who am I kidding? It probably is. God knows what Borden asked Merlin to do. Probably break into the vaults for him. Oh crap, I hope not.
Aria saw Merlin quietly open the door to Arthur's chambers and sneak in. Walking up to the slightly ajar door, she watched to see what he was doing.
What's he trying to do with those keys? Oh, don't tell me. He's trying to steal the key to the vault to get the third part of the Triskelion. Merlin… I told you not to do something stupid!
Aria flinched at the noise Merlin was making. Couldn't he at least be quieter? I thought he'd be used to creeping around by now.
Predictably, Arthur woke up and gave Merlin an odd look.
"What are you doing Merlin?"
"Er… woodworms. I'm checking for woodworms."
Aria had to stop herself from actually smacking her forehead in disbelief. Woodworms? Arthur will blatantly know that's a lie!
"Before breakfast?" Arthur's grumbled reply came.
Aria nearly smacked her forehead again. I swear to God they're both as bad as each other. How dim can you get Arthur?! It's obviously not true!
Aria couldn't quite hear Merlin's reply, but she saw him jogging towards the door to leave, so she quickly turned around and ran down the corridor so he didn't see her.
That obviously didn't work out, God knows what he intends to do now.
Shaking her head, Aria continued towards the kitchens.
~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~
Later that evening Aria stretched out on her stool and started to pack her things up to go home.
I haven't seen Gaius or Merlin all day, I wonder where they've been.
As if reading her mind, the door opened and Gaius strolled in.
"Hi, Gaius. Good day?"
"Good enough." He shook his head, "Although Merlin has been acting very strange. I can only assume it's because he is aiding Borden, even though I told him not to."
"Ah…" Aria chuckled nervously, "How strange was he acting?"
"In the council room earlier, Arthur's trousers fell down and Merlin ran over and tried to help him pull them back up. It caused quite a ruckus."
Aria snorted, "I'm sorry? He tried to help Arthur pull his trousers up?! Were other people present?"
Gaius sent her an amused smile, "Yes, the whole council, including Lord Agravaine and the knights. Merlin even tackled him to the ground to help him pull his trousers up." Gaius sighed and shook his head, "It caused some amusement but I fear there was a reason for it and indeed, that Arthur's trousers didn't fall down by mere accident."
"I'd have to agree with you there." Aria replied. "Where is Merlin now?"
"That's just the thing, I haven't seen him all day."
Aria looked thoughtful, "Me neither." She looked up at Gaius, "If he is planning to help Borden and he got what he was looking for from Arthur earlier, then he could be planning to enter the vaults tonight."
"That's what I'm worried about."
"Oh dear… and I told him not to do something stupid." Aria sighed again, "There's no stopping him when he gets an idea into his head."
"Indeed. Another reason I'm concerned."
"Don't worry Gaius, I'm sure Merlin knows what he's doing." Aria tried to sound reassuring, but to be honest, she wasn't certain Merlin had a clue what he was doing.
Packing the rest of her things up, she bid Gaius goodnight and headed home.
I hope you know what you're doing Merlin.
~0~0~0~0~0~0~
The next day Aria and Gaius were hailed by Arthur immediately after hearing the castle bells sound.
Oh no, that doesn't bode well.
They met Arthur near the council room, who informed them that someone had broken into the vaults the night before. Aria tried desperately hard not to send a disapproving look at Merlin.
How could he be so stupid as to leave tracks? I knew Borden would force him to do something illegal. Argh, Merlin, you idiot!
Aria realised she hadn't been listening to Arthur so turned her attention towards him.
"Which would suggest whoever it was had a key." Arthur looked confused.
That explains what Merlin was doing then. He tackled Arthur to the ground to get the vault key he has permanently attached to his belt. It's the only key to the vaults that I know of. Bloody hell Merlin, he's going to know it's you!
Arthur continued, "It's strange. With all these treasures, this was all they were interested in." He pointed at a box that had been recently disturbed, the tell-tale signs being the lack of dust and that it was wide open. "What was in here?"
Gaius spoke up, "One third of the Triskelion. A key." Gaius sighed, "A key, which according to legend, opens the ancient Tomb of Ashkanar."
"I remember my father talk of such a tomb. It contained a dragon's egg."
Gaius paused and then spoke, "It has been said."
"What, you don't believe it to be true?"
"Well, it is possible sire, the wealth and wisdom of Ashkanar was without equal."
Good job sounding vague Gaius, though Arthur seems to think the dragon's egg is there. Dammit.
Agravaine spoke up, "Is the egg still there?"
Great, thanks Agravaine.
"I can't be certain." Gaius replied. "But to my knowledge, no one has disturbed the Tomb for more than four hundred years." He looked pointedly at Merlin.
"But with this Triskelion, someone could," Agravaine looked shocked, "A dragon's egg could live a thousand years, every day it could hatch and another dragon could be born into this world."
Arthur's face was grim, "So all of my father's work to rid the world of these monsters would be undone." He sighed, "Then we have no choice. We must hunt down this intruder and destroy the egg."
Oh no.
~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~
Gaius stormed into his chambers, robes billowing behind him. "What were you thinking, Merlin?"
"I am a dragon Lord. It is my sacred duty to protect the last of the dragons."
"The tomb could have been closed for another four hundred years and the eff would have been completely safe. Now Arthur's riding out intent on destroying it."
"We have to hope that Borden gets there first."
"You trust Borden? You really think he's going to release that dragon? I fear to think what he intends for the poor creature. Why couldn't you leave things alone?"
Merlin looked really upset and Aria stood by quietly, unsure of what to do. She walked up and gently laid her hand on Merlin's arm. He smiled at her briefly, but it didn't reach his eyes.
Looking over at Gaius, she got the feeling he wanted to be alone with Merlin, so she nodded at him once and quietly slipped out of the room.
~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~
Aria crept into the stables and started to untie a bay colour horse that she had ridden a couple of times before. She wasn't great at riding, but could just about manage to trot without feeling too scared. Shifting her bag higher up on her shoulder, she led the horse out into the main paddock. Looking around, Aria realised she was completely clueless about horses and definitely didn't know how to put a saddle on one.
Dammit. I should have paid more attention when Merlin was doing it.
"Can I help you, miss?"
Aria jumped slightly and turned around to see one of the stable boys goofily smiling up at her.
"Um… I was wondering if you could saddle this horse for me please?"
"Sure thing miss. Who is 'e for?"
"Erm… Merlin."
"This isn't Merlin's horse."
Of course he isn't. Dammit.
"No… but he wants this horse… for now. It's for… someone else you see."
The boy looked confused but nodded his head nonetheless, "Alright miss, I'll get him ready."
"Thank you, I really appreciate it." She gave him what she hoped was a charming smile. The lad blushed and ran away.
Phew.
Aria tapped her foot impatiently on the floor.
They haven't ridden out to find Borden yet, but if I can ride ahead to the forest and wait, I can follow them when they catch up. That way, I can sneak in and get the egg, or help Merlin, as he's bound to try something stupid.
She smiled to herself and sighed.
I know that Gaius and Merlin try not to burden me with their problems. I wonder sometimes if they think I can't handle it. Maybe they're right, I don't know, but I have to try! Earlier, I know Gaius wanted me to leave so he could discuss things with Merlin, and I know he wouldn't have meant anything by that, but still, I do feel left out. Even with the dorocha, I wasn't allowed to leave the castle and help with the quest. I know it's dangerous, but I want to help. I think I have a part to play, and if I'm cooped up in the castle forever, I'll never know what that is. This could be my chance to help Merlin – and Arthur. If I can help recover the dragon's egg and prevent it falling into the wrong hands, that could be something good I can achieve.
The stable lad had run back with a saddle and some other bits that Aria didn't recognise. He started saddling the horse, smiling a gappy smile at Aria the entire time. She smiled as convincingly as she could in response.
"There. All done, miss."
"Thank you very much."
"Any time miss…"
"Aria."
"Miss Aria." If it was possible, his smile got even bigger.
"Yes… well… thank you, I best be off!"
"See you another day, Miss Aria!"
She waved at him whilst leading the horse away.
Now, let's see what we've got here.
She checked the saddle was secure and prepared to jump on the horse's back. It took a few tries until she finally swung her leg over and sat atop of the horse.
Phew. Now, let's get going!
She turned the reigns to her right and dug her heels gently into the horse's sides, causing him to trot down the lane.
I hope I know what I'm doing.
~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~
Merlin looked behind him for the umpteenth time since they had set off from Camelot.
I can't escape the feeling that we are being followed.
"Hurry up, Merlin!" Arthur shouted at him from the front of the pack, and he gently urged his horse forward until he was level with the King.
"Look at that!" Leon pointed ahead and Merlin strained his eyes to see.
"That's a fire. It might be the thief, we must hurry."
"It's getting dark, Merlin. We need to find a place to rest and eat for the evening."
"But we're so close-"
"So we can't afford to make any mistakes." Arthur replied, giving him a 'this is my final word' look.
Merlin grumbled in response, but didn't argue.
Turning their horses towards the trees, they started to set up camp. Merlin began cooking their food and whilst waiting for it to boil, he grabbed some hay and went to feed the horses.
Crack.
The noise was very quiet, but it was enough. Merlin became alert and turned around to see what was behind him.
Nothing.
He tried peering through the trees but he couldn't see anything and nothing was moving.
I must being imagining things.
Frowning, he finished feeding the horses and went back to the main camp.
~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~
Aria had to stop herself from gasping when she stood on a twig, causing a loud enough sound for Merlin to hear. He turned around and looked right at where she was stood.
She held her breath.
He frowned but didn't investigate further, and when he moved away, she let out a relieved sigh.
That was close.
She decided to retreat slightly, just in case she came into close encounter with one of the knights. She wasn't sure whether they were in an 'act now, think later' mode, and didn't want to risk it. Walking back to her horse, she gently stroked his nose and sighed.
"Just me and you tonight horsey. Do you have a name? I feel stupid just calling you horsey."
The horse remained staring ahead and didn't make any indication that he had understood a word she had said.
Maybe I'm finally starting to go mad. I'm talking to a horse.
Aria sighed again, "I'll call you… George. To remind me of Georgie back home." Aria felt a stab of homesickness, but it went away quickly when she realised it was getting dark fast and she still needed to prepare for the night.
Now, how am I going to do this? If I create a fire they will see and I will be found out. Good job I brought lots of blankets.
She spent ten minutes trying to get George to sit down and when she finally succeeded, he allowed her to curl up next to him swaddled in blankets.
OK, this is quite warm, I can do this.
After thirty minutes like that with the dark bearing down around her, Aria was starting to think maybe she couldn't do this at all.
~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~
Merlin shifted in his sleep, a frown gracing his features.
"Emrys…" A quiet murmur swept through the camp.
Merlin blinked open his eyes and yawned.
"Emrys…"
Realising he wasn't dreaming, Merlin jumped up and rubbed his eyes, suddenly becoming alert.
"Where are you?" He questioned, and started to walk through the trees in the direction of the voice.
Pushing back branches, he looked left and right but couldn't see anyone. As he walked into a clearing, he jumped slightly in shock. Before him were a group of cloaked figures all staring at him from beneath their hoods.
The closest figure lifted their hood, allowing Merlin to see his face, and spoke, "Do not be afraid, Emrys. We know of your quest."
"How?"
The man before him spoke grimly, "The man you seek also stole from us. He passed through these woods not three hours ago."
"Where did he go?"
"East. But you must be aware. Ashkanar was a wise man. He knew one day men would come seeking to disturb his rest." He looked straight into Merlin's eyes, "The Triskelion is not just a key, it is a trap."
"What kind of trap?"
"I do not know. But the legends are very clear. You must beware, Emrys."
These people must be druids, if they know me by that name. I can trust them.
"Thank you."
"There is one other thing the legends say. Only when the way ahead seems impossible, will you have found it."
Merlin frowned and turned to leave, but felt a tug on his arm. Turning around he noticed the man had appeared next to him.
How did he move so fast?
"Emrys… your destined one is also here, in this forest."
What?
"My destined one?"
The man nodded, "The one in the… other prophecy."
Merlin looked surprised, "You know about that?"
"We have… heard of it."
"Wait. Do you mean to say Aria is here?"
"Yes."
When I felt someone watching me, it must have been Aria.
Merlin's mouth dropped open, "What is she doing here? Where is she?" He turned to leave again.
"Wait, Emrys. She has to be here, it is her destiny."
"You can't expect me to just leave her here now that I know. She is alone in the forest! She must be scared, she must be-"
"She is fine." The man laid his hand on Merlin's arm again, "We have kept watch on her and helped her go to sleep. She does not know of our help, but we will ensure she is safe."
Merlin thought for a moment, "Do I have your word? I need to know she will be safe."
"You have it."
"Thank you. Please, watch over her."
"She is important, Emrys. We will protect her."
"Thank you."
Realising that was the last thing the man was going to say, Merlin turned around and headed back to camp, resisting the urge to seek out Aria.
~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~
Aria awoke to sunlight streaming onto her face.
Whoa, I went out like a light last night. Pfft, and here I thought I would struggle to sleep and get all scared. I will never be scared at home alone again! I slept out in the open in a forest in Camelot for God's sake!
Smiling proudly to herself, she got up slowly and stretched, her horse following suit.
"Oh bless, thank you for being my support all night George."
The horse begrudgingly gave a whinny and flicked his tail. Aria smiled and stroked him behind the ears.
"Oh! We must go, the others may have continued on their way by now." Grabbing the blankets that had piled up on the floor, she stuffed them back into her bag and led George as quietly as she could through the forest.
She didn't notice the two cloaked figures watching her from a distance.
~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~
Merlin trudged after Arthur scowling.
He's going the wrong way, I can feel it. How can I tell him that without admitting I have magic? And Aria… where is she? Is she alright? I hope my trust hasn't been misplaced with the druids.
"There are no horse tracks, sire. He could have gone anywhere." Leon spoke up from in front of Merlin.
The knights spent a few more minutes wandering around the small wooded clearing, before Merlin couldn't contain it any longer.
"He went this way." He pointed east and started to walk.
Arthur rose his eyebrow, "And how do you know that Merlin?"
"I- because I can sense it."
"Hm." Arthur rolled his eyes. "Come back Merlin, we need to get the lead."
"I've told you, we have to go east."
"We can't make rash decisions based on your feelings, Merlin." Arthur shook his head.
"No, sire – he's right." Elyan shouted from a few meters away. "Look, horse droppings, heading east."
"Told you." Merlin couldn't help but quip.
Arthur grumbled something unintelligible under his breath and signalled for the knights to continue east.
~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~
Aria's stomach grumbled as she pulled George through the dense forest.
"That teaches me to eat all my food at once. I'm such an idiot."
She had been following Merlin and the others for some time now and was growing weary. Being cooped up in Gaius's chambers all the time was not doing great for her physical fitness, but then again, she had never been that fit before she came to Camelot.
"What the?"
Aria stopped and looked at the cave in front of her. It looked foreboding, almost like a giant mouth waiting to clamp down. Aria gulped.
I'm not sure I want to go in there. But… the horses are over there, so they must have gone through this way.
Moving to a more secluded area behind some trees, Aria tied George up and bade him farewell. Turning towards the cave, Aria gulped again as she stepped into the darkness.
Brr, it's cold in here. What's that noise?
Walking deeper in, Aria started to feel claustrophobic as the cave walls felt like they were closing in around her, the noise she heard before reverberating from all directions. Just as she was about to give up and turn around, the pathway opened into a small cavern with a waterfall on the other side. Sighing in relief, Aria walked towards the waterfall and tried to peek through the gushing water.
I'm going to have to walk through it. Great.
Holding her breath, she stepped through as quickly as she could. Despite that, she still felt the water pour all over her. It seeped down the top of her dress, causing her to shiver as she appeared on the other side.
"Argh, I always thought standing under a waterfall would be relaxing and peaceful. But no, now I'm all wet and ack, there's weeds down my dress. Gross!" Grumbling, Aria tried to shake herself dry, but to no avail. "And I'm colder than I was before."
Trudging ahead, Aria followed the fresh footprints in the mud, which had thankfully been emphasised by the wetness from the waterfall.
"At least the waterfall was good for something. They're easier to follow now."
Quickly gathering her dress up so it didn't drag in the boggy mud, Aria made her way towards the trees in front of her.
~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~
Leaning against a nearby tree, Aria sighed.
It's much harder to follow them without being on George. They move quickly – how does Merlin keep up? No wonder he has such a nicely defined chest.
Aria blushed at her train of thought and shook her head to help her focus. Peering down at the camp, she smiled.
Merlin.
He was busy running around collecting ingredients for the dinner that evening and Aria couldn't help feeling happy to see him. Her stomach fluttered in excitement and she felt herself smiling automatically.
When he started cooking dinner though, Aria's happy flutters turned to hunger growls, causing her to frown. I really shouldn't have eaten all of my food.
Looking up, she tried to focus on something else, to prevent her from drooling at the lovely smelling soup being boiled below. Turning her head right, she froze. A man she had not seen before was also looking at the group in the clearing below.
Is that Borden? Or a bandit? Should I make a noise?
The man crouched down and picked up a slingshot. Before Aria could make any noise, he aimed it at the soup pot, placed a sachet against the string and fired. The little cloth package flew straight into the soup pot and sunk out of sight. The man grinned and turned away, vanishing into the undergrowth.
Unsure of what to do, Aria stood gawking at his vacant spot for a while. Did I just imagine that? It happened so fast…
Aria looked down and saw Merlin dishing out the soup.
I must tell Merlin quickly.
Moving carefully from her spot, Aria made her way as quickly as she could to the camp below. Pausing behind a tree, she noticed Merlin was nowhere in sight. Panic rising, Aria crept closer to the camp.
It's very quiet. Something doesn't feel right.
Peering around a tree, Aria noticed all of the nights were lying down and appeared to be asleep. She noticed Arthur was mumbling slightly.
What? They were all wide awake a moment ago. What's going on?
"Alright, don't tell me – it was too salty."
Aria jumped at the sudden noise in the camp. Merlin had returned and was grinning as he walked past everyone, seemingly oblivious that they were all unmoving.
"Typical." He rolled his eyes and then grinning slowly, he threw the firewood he was carrying onto the floor loudly.
Not hearing any complaints, Merlin seemed to realise something wasn't right.
Should I tell him about Borden and the package in the soup? If he sees me now, will he get angry? Argh, Aria, this is why you came here for God's sake. Man up and tell him!
As Aria was fighting her internal battle, she didn't realise that Merlin had already spotted the sachet in the soup pot. Looking up, she was about to shout out to him, when she saw he was holding the sachet in his hand. Merlin sniffed it, frowned and then realisation flashed across his features. Aria watched him spur into action, rushing around each of the knights muttering a spell. Their pale, sweat streaked faces relaxed and once Merlin had finished his incantations, they looked peacefully asleep. Sighing in relief, Aria wondered yet again whether she should tell Merlin she was there.
Would now be the right time? Or should I wait?
Merlin meanwhile, had finished seeing to all the knights and had started to quickly gather up his things. Once he had finished, he began jogging deeper into the forest.
I'll follow him in silence for now.
Aria swiftly ran through the camp and tried her best to keep up with Merlin.
~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~
Meanwhile, back in Camelot, Agravaine was pacing his chambers, deep in thought.
How can I capture her? If she is Emrys, she will be powerful. I must do it when she is most vulnerable.
He stopped and stared out of the window, looking at Camelot's residents milling about in the streets below.
I must not tell Morgana about her yet. I need her to be mine. I do not want Morgana to take her. Not yet, at least. That would be the only option if it came down to it, but for now… I have surprise on my side.
Agravaine was about to turn away from the window when a blonde head exiting the castle caught his eye.
There she is. Aria. Or should I say, Emrys.
The girl was carrying a wicker basket under her right arm, her hair scraped up into a messy pony tail. She had a light brown dress on, with another cloth hanging around her waist, which looked like it was covered in various colours. From chemicals and potions, no doubt.
He watched her make her way through the crowd, smiling and waving at others as she went.
She is popular. I must take care in how I proceed. Arthur cannot suspect me.
He noticed her heading towards Camelot's outer gates, passing through them and into the grassy fields beyond, and a plan formulated in his mind.
Agravaine grinned a crooked, evil smile.
I know just how to capture you.
~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~
"Great." Aria turned back the way she had come and growled in frustration. "Where the hell?"
She had been following Merlin successfully and even managed to get all the way to the Tomb, which was shaped like a tall, brown obelisk. Borden however, had set of some sort of smoke bomb and because Aria didn't have magic to prevent her from inhaling it, she had to backtrack. The only problem was, she had made a wrong turn.
Spinning around Aria made her way in the other direction. This place is like a maze! I can't get stuck here! What if I'm here forever?! Stop overreacting Aria, get a move on.
Jogging down a few more corridors, she noticed a wooden door up ahead. Slowing down, she pushed against the door. Not budging a bit, she threw her weight against it and toppled through. Looking around her, she saw she was in a cavernous room, with majestic pillars lining either side of her.
"Whoa."
Walking forwards, Aria noticed a blue cone shaped thing on a pedestal in the centre of the room.
"Is that… the dragon's egg?"
Starting to walk up to it, Aria darted behind a nearby pillar when the door at the opposite end of the room began to open. Back pressed against the pillar, she turned to her left slightly so she could peer at who had entered.
~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~
Merlin swung the torch he was holding threw the open doorway.
Can't be too careful. There could be more traps like that smoke bomb. At least it knocked out Borden - that means I have one less thing to worry about. Now to find the dragon egg.
Stepping through into another corridor, he noticed a large, wooden door ahead of him. Walking up to it, he pushed it open.
"Amazing." He whispered.
Walking into the large room, Merlin's eyes were drawn to the blue, pointy object on a pedestal in front of him.
"The egg."
Walking towards it slowly, his heart rate picked up. It looks so smooth. I wonder what the dragon inside will be like.
When he was directly next to the egg, Merlin laid down his torch and gingerly went to pick it up.
"Give it to me."
Merlin spun around at Borden's voice.
"It's not yours to take."
Borden pointed at him, "You give it to me and I will grant you a half share."
"No. It must go free."
"Don't be a fool. Think of the power it will bring us. The lands we can rule over."
"I'm not interested in that."
"With this dragon at our command, we will live like kings. We will have the freedom and power to do what we wish."
"Dragons cannot be used like that." Merlin spat. "They must be left unshackled, free to roam the earth."
"But this is your chance, Merlin. Your chance to escape your meaningless life. Your worthless existence."
Merlin looked sad, "It's not my life that is pitiable – it's yours. You wasted it for nothing."
Borden picked up Merlin's tossed aside torch. Merlin stood in front of the egg protectively, whilst glaring at the man in approaching him.
"I pieced together the Triskelion. I found the path that led us here. The dragon belongs to me! Now hand it over!" Borden's voice got louder and louder, spit flying from the corners of his mouth.
"No."
"You're not going to stop me boy!"
Merlin shouted, "Dragons are magical creatures and belong to no one man, they are the benefit for all!"
Borden swung the torch at Merlin, causing him to fall backwards onto the floor.
"What do you know, huh? You are but a serving boy!"
Borden lifted the torch high into the air, ready to strike Merlin. Before he had the chance, the torch was knocked from his hands. Turning angrily, he glared at the newcomer.
"Aria?!" Merlin exclaimed.
"Later, Merlin."
"Come to save the serving boy, have you? You're too late." Borden reached forward and grabbed Aria's arm, swinging her around and pushing her to the ground.
Not expecting the sudden close contact, Aria let out a squeak as she was thrown to the floor. She managed to step forward as she fell, preventing her face from slamming into the stone floor, but as a result, her body changed course. Closing her eyes to lessen the blow, she expected to land heavily on the hard surface. When she didn't feel a painful impact, she opened one eye carefully and gasped. She had landed on top of Merlin.
"OhmyGod!" Aria gasped so quickly each word marred together.
"Are you alright?" Merlin asked, looking into her eyes with concern, "Did you get hurt when you fell?"
"I'm alright." She squeaked in reply.
Aria couldn't help but go beet red when she realised how close her and Merlin were. As she had fallen from Merlin's right, she had managed to fall across his chest. Merlin had evidently reached up to catch her, so she was currently sitting in his lap, facing him. Her face was inches from his, causing her stomach to flutter again. She swiftly moved out of his lap and onto the floor next to him.
"I see." Borden smirked curiously.
Merlin glared up at Borden, "You could have hurt her."
"That would have been a shame."
Merlin growled, "You come here to do irreparable damage to the last remaining dragon egg and also push someone dear to me aside as if she is nothing. You are playing in things you should not play with, Borden. Leave, before it is too late."
Borden looked amused, "As I said before, you are but a serving boy. Now, I shall take my egg and be on my way."
Merlin shouted, "You will not. I am the last dragon lord. And I am warning you, leave this egg alone."
Borden looked at the egg and turned back to Merlin, seemingly weighing up his options. Flicking his eyes towards Aria, he flung his torch directly at her face, whilst sprinting towards the egg.
Merlin shouted in anger, causing the torch to clatter to the ground and Borden to be thrown into the wall across the room, where he fell unconscious.
Merlin turned towards Aria, "Are you alright, Aria?"
He could tell she was shook up, but knew she was physically alright.
That's the main thing.
Aria spoke up, "Quickly Merlin, the egg."
He nodded and made his way over to it. Picking it up, they both heard a click.
"Um, Merlin. What was that?"
Before he could reply, the floor started to shake and the walls and ceiling started crumbling.
"Run!" he shouted at her.
Merlin clutched the egg under his right arm and grabbed Aria's wrist with the other. Together, they dodged falling rocks and made their way outside. Merlin quickly placed the egg in his bag. Despite the time it took to make their way into the Tomb and grab the egg, their exit was much swifter.
"Aria, why are you here?"
"I thought I could help… I'm sorry, I think I may have made things worse."
"No, you didn't. If you hadn't have hit the torch out of Borden's hand, he may have hit me with it."
Aria smiled, "I know you're just being nice Merlin. You could have easily used magic to push him away."
He chuckled.
"Anyway," she continued, "I best get back to George and let you be on your way."
Merlin looked surprised and couldn't help a sharp pain shoot through his chest, "You bought Sir George along with you again?"
Aria laughed, "No, silly. I named my horse George."
Relief spread through him, "Oh, I see."
Aria laughed, "I better go. Don't want Arthur and everyone wondering how I turned up here."
"That's a good question." Merlin asked her, raising his eyebrow. Aria chuckled nervously. "You can tell me about that later. Will you be able to get back by yourself?"
Aria shot him a playful glare, "I got here by myself in the first place right? I can handle it."
She turned around and made her way through the trees.
Merlin chuckled and smiled. He lifted his bag over his shoulders and was about to head off in the same direction as Aria when he walked into Arthur.
"What the hell happened?" Arthur demanded.
Merlin looked behind him at the still collapsing Tomb.
"The Tomb was a trap – he set it off. He never got out."
"What about the egg?"
"It would have perished with him."
"Are you sure? We need to be certain."
Leon spoke up from behind Arthur, "Nothing is going to survive under all that."
Arthur nodded and sighed, "Right then. Let's head back."
Merlin turned to look at the Tomb one last time, before following after the knights.
~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~
Gaius, Aria and Merlin sat eating their stew in silence.
Gaius isn't in a great mood, he's already told me off for running away recklessly again – despite it being for a good reason. I don't think he truly understands why I had to go, but as long as he doesn't remain mad for long, it's alright.
Aria flicked her eyes up at Merlin.
Is he not going to tell Gaius about the egg?
"Shame about the egg." Gaius broke the silence.
"Yes."
"You weren't able to save it."
"No." Merlin shook his head.
Standing up, he gathered the crumbs on the table and tipped them into his now empty bowl.
Gaius game him a look, causing the sides of Merlin's mouth to twitch. Aria couldn't help but smile into her bowl.
Merlin laughed, causing Gaius to laugh as well. Aria giggled and smiled warmly at the two men in front of her. Merlin rushed over to his bag, which was hanging on a peg on the wall and took out the egg.
"All the jewels, all the treasures - they can't compare."
He handed the egg over to Gaius.
"And it was nearly lost because of you." Gaius reprimanded.
"I'm sorry Gaius. I was too quick to act."
"You have to think things through. Ashkanar did exactly that. He had the foresight to conceal this for more than four hundred years. And now it's down to you Merlin. For you to decide what you intend to do with it."
"I've thought about that." Merlin looked directly into Gaius's eyes, "I'm going to make sure it goes back to where it belongs."
~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~
Merlin bent down and placed the egg on the ground in front of Kilgharrah. Aria blew gently into her hands to warm them. She smiled at the dragon's face.
He looks delighted, but then again, he could also be looking really angry. It's hard to tell. I would hedge my bets on delighted though.
"Is it still alive?" Aria couldn't help but ask.
"It can live for more than a thousand years." The dragon replied.
Merlin smiled, "So you area no longer the last of your kind."
"It would seem not. Heh."
"When will it hatch?" Merlin asked.
"Young dragons were called into the world by dragon lords. Only they had the power to summon them from the egg. As the last dragon lord, this solemn duty falls to you, Merlin."
A worried look crossed his face.
He's thinking he can't do it. But I know he can.
"How do I summon it?"
"You must give the dragon a name."
Merlin closed his eyes, "Aithusa." He growled in his dragon lord voice.
In response, the egg cracked and a small, pointy head poked out.
Aria couldn't help but gasp as the little dragon made a funny gurgling noise before breaking the egg open completely and falling out of it.
"So cute!" She exclaimed.
She smiled at Merlin, who looked pleased beyond delight.
Kilgharrah spoke, "A white dragon is indeed a rare thing. And fitting, for in the dragon tongue, you named him after the light of the sun. No dragon birth is without meaning, young warlock. Sometimes the meaning is hard to see, but this time, I believe it is clear. The white dragon bodes well for Albion. For you. And Arthur."
Aria beamed and looked over at Merlin again. He looked like he was struggling not to cry.
Hehe, Merlin will be so embarrassed that he's almost crying. But I find that rather… endearing. It's nice to know he has such deep feelings. I swear, no guys back in the future are like that. They'd be all tough and macho like 'yeah dragon, let's fight and set things on fire – basically complete morons.
After a moment, Kilgharrah continued, "And for the land that you will build together."
Merlin flicked his eyes over to Aria and smiled brightly at her.
A/N – Let me know what you think of this chapter in a review! ^.^ Thank you!