Prompts: Isle of Mora

Warnings: mentions character death

Summary: Merlin finds something unexpected on the Isle of Mora

Freedom

The first time Gwen sent Merlin on a diplomatic mission, it was to the Isle of Mora. She wanted to create a deeper bond of friendship between Camelot and Mora. She was thinking of trade and alliances but what Merlin found would change those plans.

Merlin took the ferry into the small island kingdom. He found something he didn't expect. He found one of the largest magickal communities he had ever seen. As he rode through the streets, he saw magick everywhere. Even children were practicing simple spells in the open.

There were also artists and musicians on the corners and in the main market. There was color and music everywhere.

Merlin made his way to the castle and delivered Gwen's proposals. He made notes of everything before leaving for Camelot.

When Gwen heard what he had seen she was astonished that there was so much freedom. Gwen had lifted the ban on magick only recently and there were still some people that believed it was a mistake.

"Merlin, what we need is a festival." Gwen said

"A festival? What kind of festival?" Merlin asked.

"I want the kind of festival that includes all of the artists and musicians of the kingdom. I want you to put on an exhibition of magick by sorcerers that you choose. I'm sure you know a few that would be willing to participate." Gwen smiled at him.

"We could ask the druids to Court for the feast at the end." Merlin said. "That would be a show of good will."

"I like that idea. Will you make all the arrangements and send out the invitations?" Gwen said.

"I would be happy too. Gwen, it was so good to see children not hiding their magick. When I was a boy it was difficult to control my magick and keep it a secret from everyone." Merlin told her.

"I can't imagine what it was like to hide who you truly were all those years. I was surprised when I found out that you had magick until I thought about it. I was sure Arthur would have at least suspected." Gwen frowned.

"No. I hated the look on his face when I told him. He looked so betrayed." Merlin winced at the memory. "I just hope that no one ever has to see that look on their friend's face ever again when the share that they have magick."

"I hope I didn't have that look." Gwen said with a gentle look.

"No but I think you may have suspected it." Merlin said.

Gwen shook her head. "I didn't. I was just glad that Arthur had a friend he could count on at the end."

"Little good it did. We still lost him." Merlin said.

"I know. We should have the festival on Arthur's birthday. It would be a way of honoring the past and looking to the future." Gwen said. "It would also turn it from a day of sorrow to one of joy again."

Merlin nodded. "I like that idea. Even though, Arthur would have probably complained about it."

Gwen laughed. "I would have made him see sense and he would have secretly enjoyed himself."

"I believe he would in his own grumpy way." Merlin chuckled.