"What are you talking about?" said Merlin, forcing a laugh. She looked at him and could see the worry breaking through.
"Merlin, you have magic," he laughed once more, though it was a brief laugh. "The only way that door could be opened is by someone with magic. Arthur couldn't open it, but you could," she looked at Merlin. "I will not tell Arthur, because it is your secret, not mine. But I am correct," Merlin moved to one of the closet seats.
"Yes, I have magic. I have never used it for anything other than good though I promise. I have saved Arthur's life more than once with it. But I cannot tell him, definitely not while his father is alive," she nodded.
"Merlin, eventually Arthur will find out. I do not know how he will react, but I will support you no matter what happens. You are my friend, and like a brother to me," Merlin could not help it as he reached his arms around her.
"Thank you. Arthur is right you know," she stepped out of his embrace and raised an eyebrow. "You will, not would, but will make a fine queen of Camelot," she could not help her small laugh.
"I will never be queen, not while Uther lives," Merlin nodded.
"He will not always be around to stop you. You and Arthur belong together," she smiled.
"And one day you will get the recognition you deserve. Merlin I owe you my life, and that is a debt I can never repay. But do not fear for I will always try," Merlin smiled.
"I will not forget this debt," they shook hands.
"Arthur is fortunate to have you by his side. I want to thank you for saving his life all the times you have," they went quiet as a knock sounded at her door. She moved across to open it. "Sir Gwaine, what is wrong?" he looked flustered.
"Arthur wants both of you right now. The king," he had to stop to take a breath. "The king is dead," they all went silent before Emilia found herself able to nod and they rushed to the castle. The guards did not stop them as they ran into the castle. "This way," said Gwaine as they turned down a corridor towards Uther's chambers. The doors were opened and she stopped upon seeing Arthur. He had tears streaming down his cheeks, spilling onto the bed where his father's body lay.
"Arthur," she murmured and rushed to his side.
"He is gone," he said in between crying.
"I am here," she said and reached her arms around him.
"This was Mordred and Odin," he said turning to face her. "Is it not enough that he keeps trying to take you from me? Must he take everything else from me?" she reached to wipe tears from his cheek.
"He cannot take me from you, and I promise I will only ever be yours," Arthur smiled.
"He has taken my father. For that he will pay," she nodded.
"He will Arthur, I promise. Mordred will pay for everything he has done. He will never come between us, I promise. I love you."