Merlin shut his eyes and tried to block out the sounds of people screaming. For three nights in a row now, the dragon had attacked Camelot. Merlin, Gaius and Mordred kept trying to set up infirmaries, but the dragon always seemed to know where they were, and he would relentlessly assault that part of the castle. Dozens of people were dying, and it was all Merlin's fault.
Mordred was fairly certain he knew what his brother had done, but he did not broach the subject. Merlin was clearly overwhelmed with guilt, and blaming him would not save Camelot. Instead, Mordred focused on helping Gaius with the many patients as best he could.
Both brothers jerked out of their reveries when Gwen ran up to Gaius. "There's no clean water left!" she fretted.
"I know, but it's too dangerous to go out there," Gaius told her.
Gwen turned around and ran for the exit, dodging a falling piece of rubble on her way. Merlin pursued her, worried she would get herself killed. Mordred followed a little ways behind.
Unfortunately, when they reached the crowded, flaming courtyard, they quickly lost sight of Gwen in the chaos. Merlin looked around and noticed Mordred following him. Mordred, what are you doing out here?!
Same as you, I was worried about Gwen! Mordred answered.
Get back inside! Merlin snapped worriedly. The dragon abandoned his assault on the infirmary to fly directly at them.
"Clear the square!" Arthur yelled from somewhere across the courtyard. Merlin tried to drag Mordred back inside, but a smoking wagon burst into flames and blocked their path. The brothers instead ducked under another wagon that looked safe enough for the time being.
The dragon swooped low, and a man who sounded like Arthur yelled in pain. Merlin and Mordred emerged again to see that the square was now empty; Arthur was dragging Gwen through a door on the far side.
Now that there were no onlookers, Merlin seized the opportunity to enchant a spear and send it flying at the dragon. The spear glanced harmlessly off the dragon's scales, and the dragon glared at the brothers. "Do not imagine that your petty magic can harm me! I will have my revenge—and my prey!" Mordred swallowed as the dragon's gaze shifted to him.
You are a backstabbing, despicable monster! Merlin cried angrily. Carefully shielding Mordred, he managed to get them both back inside.
Gaius was immensely relieved to see them. "Are you hurt?" he demanded.
Merlin shook his head. [There's nothing I can do.] Spotting Arthur being tended by Gwen a few beds away, Merlin shifted so that his back was to them. [My magic is no good. It doesn't affect him.]
"Dragons aren't monsters, they're creatures of wonder and magic," Gaius replied. "You must realize that they're immune to your powers."
In the morning, Gaius and the brothers watched Arthur make his report to Uther. "The dead number forty-nine men, twenty-seven women, a further eighteen women and children are unaccounted for. Most of last night's fires are out. The castle walls, in particular the western section, are near to collapse. I could go on."
"Do we have any further idea on how the beast escaped?" Uther demanded. Merlin flinched and bowed his head.
Leon spoke up. "I regret to say, Sire, we don't."
"There must be some way to rid ourselves of this…aberration," Uther muttered. He walked over to a window while Arthur sighed and collapsed into a chair. After a few moments, the king turned back to the room. "Gaius?"
Gaius took a deep breath. "We need a Dragonlord, Sire."
"You know very well that's not an option," Uther said, sounding resigned.
"Sire…" Gaius began hesitantly. "I have heard rumors that there may, indeed, be one last Dragonlord left. I'm not exactly sure, but I think his name is Balinor."
"Balinor," Uther repeated, his expression unreadable.
"Where does he live?" Arthur asked.
"He was last seen in Cenred's kingdom, in the border town of Engerd, but that was many years ago."
Arthur stood up again. "If this man still exists, then it is our duty to find him."
"Our treaty with Cenred no longer holds, we are at war," Uther retorted. "If they discovered you beyond our border, they would kill you."
"I will go alone," Arthur suggested. "That way I will not be detected."
"No, Arthur, it's too dangerous!" Uther objected.
"More dangerous than staying here?" Arthur countered. "I'll not stand by and watch my men die when I have the chance to save them!"
"I have given you my orders!" Uther insisted.
Arthur met his father's gaze, completely calm. "Do not make this a test of wills, Father."
"I'm not talking to you as a father, I'm talking to you as a king!"
Arthur remained undeterred. "I will ride immediately."
"My concern is for you," Uther said anxiously.
"Mine is for Camelot," Arthur retorted. "I will send word when I've found him." He walked over to Merlin. "Prepare the horses." Merlin nodded, and Arthur left the room.
Back in the physician's chambers, Mordred helped Merlin pack. However, packing was far from the only thing on his mind. "Who were the Dragonlords?" Mordred asked.
Gaius did not answer, seemingly lost in thought.
"...Gaius?"
Gaius snapped out of it. "There were once men who could talk to the dragons, tame them."
"What happened to them?"
"Uther believed that the art of the Dragonlord was too close to magic," Gaius explained. "So he had them all rounded up and killed."
[But one survived,] Merlin signed. He gave Gaius a shrewd look. [How did you know?]
"I helped him escape," Gaius admitted. Merlin raised his eyebrows, impressed. "Boys, you've never heard the name 'Balinor'? Your mother never mentioned him?"
"Mother?" Mordred repeated in surprise. Merlin shook his head, highly interested now.
"She took him in," Gaius elaborated. "But when Uther discovered where Balinor was, he sent knights to Ealdor to hunt him down. Balinor was forced to flee."
Merlin frowned. [Why has Mother never mentioned this?]
Gaius bowed his head. "Merlin, I promised your mother I would never speak of these things. I've always treated you as my son, but that is not what you are. The man you are going to look for…is your father."
Merlin stared blankly in shock. Mother had always said his father was dead—on the rare occasions when she spoke of him at all.
After nearly a minute, Mordred grew concerned and gave his brother a nudge. [My father was a Dragonlord?] Merlin finally managed. [Why did no one ever tell me?]
"I wanted to," Gaius said quickly. "Your mother feared it would be too dangerous."
[More dangerous than being born with magic and paying monthly visits to druids?] Merlin signed incredulously. [Look how well that turned out!]
"She wanted to protect you," Gaius insisted.
Merlin shook his head, his expression hardening. [No. I had a right to know.] He stormed into the bedroom and slammed the door.
Mordred considered following his brother, but then decided that Merlin was probably better left alone. Instead, he finished the packing in silence. A pity he could never hope to have a similar story with his own father; he knew Merlin had witnessed Cerdan's death with his own eyes.
Merlin emerged just as Mordred finished packing. [I'm sorry, Gaius. I didn't mean to…]
Gaius smiled. "It's all right, I understand. But Merlin…whatever happens, you must not let Arthur know who this man is. Uther would view the son of a Dragonlord with deepest suspicion."
Merlin nodded and left. Mordred went up into the bedroom and curled up on his bed. Despite this new ray of hope, he couldn't shake a feeling of foreboding.
When Merlin led the horses into the courtyard, Arthur was waiting for him. "What took you?" Arthur grumbled.
Merlin handed Arthur his reins and signed an apology. Arthur winced as he mounted his horse; a bandage was visible underneath his shirt. [You okay?] Merlin asked worriedly.
"It's just a scratch," Arthur said casually. He kicked his horse into a trot. Merlin hurriedly mounted his own horse and followed.
Just before they reached the border of Cenred's kingdom, Arthur called a halt for a brief rest. Merlin gratefully took the opportunity to take a drink from his waterskin, then shuddered at the memory of Morgana doing the same from the waterskin he had poisoned.
Just as they were about to move out again, Arthur tensed and held up a hand. Moments later, a horse emerged from the trees behind them. "Mordred?!" Arthur said incredulously. "What are you doing here?" Merlin simply stared open-mouthed.
"I wanted to help!" Mordred answered, somewhat petulantly. "Besides, it's not like Camelot is all that safe right now. I think the dragon's out to get me! The only time he stopped attacking the infirmary was when I followed Merlin to the courtyard!"
"Don't be ridiculous," Arthur scoffed. He turned to Merlin. "Wha—Merlin, aren't you going to tell him that's ridiculous?"
Unfortunately, Merlin suspected Mordred might be right. However, he didn't want to explain that to Arthur. [Look, he's no safer in Camelot than with us. Besides, having a child with us will make us look less threatening to any of Cenred's men we might encounter.]
Arthur rolled his eyes, exasperated. "Fine. Mordred, I hope for your sake that you've filled your trouble-making quota for the next several days."
"I'll be good," Mordred promised. "Just don't send me home. Please."
They reached Engerd that evening, and Arthur bought them a room in the village inn. Mordred did everything he could to help Merlin settle their horses in the stables, trying to show that he could be useful. Once that was done, they joined Arthur in the inn. It was full of rather thuggish-looking men. Merlin stuck very close to Mordred as they walked over to join Arthur.
"The innkeeper's never heard of Balinor," Arthur said in a low voice. He cast a wary look around the room.
"Are you thinking one of these men is Balinor?" Mordred suggested hesitantly.
Merlin whirled to face Mordred, eyes wide. [I really hope not.]
"Me too," Arthur agreed.
Once they went to bed, Merlin turned his full attention to his brother. There's more to this than fear of the dragon, isn't there? You normally run to danger, not away from it.
I thought you might need moral support, Mordred said evasively. Arthur can't know what Balinor means to you.
You came all this way…for moral support? Merlin repeated skeptically.
Is that so hard to believe? Mordred grumbled.
I appreciate the sentiment, but somehow I don't think that's it, Merlin answered. Suddenly it hit him. This has to do with Morgana, doesn't it? Are you hoping maybe we'll find her?
Hadn't actually thought of that, Mordred admitted. I just know she was lost while I was asleep. Asleep! I don't want to just sit in Camelot and wait for news from you and Arthur! What if something happened to you, and there was something I could have done?
All right, Merlin sighed. I can understand that. But please don't make a habit of this. This mission isn't much safer than being in Camelot right now.
A few hours later, Arthur shoved a man against Merlin's bed and held a knife to the man's chest. Merlin jolted awake just in time to hear Arthur speak. "Do you know what the punishment is for theft?"
"No, please, I've got children to feed!" the thief begged.
"Tell me where to find Balinor," Arthur replied, unmoved.
"Balinor? I don't…"
"Do you value your life?" Arthur asked coldly, pressing the knife closer.
"It's been many years since I saw him!" the thief protested.
"Do you know where he lives?" Arthur prompted, more gently now.
The thief took a few deep breaths before replying. "You must travel through the Forest of Merendra to the foot of Feorre Mountain. There, you will find the cave where Balinor dwells." Arthur finally released the thief. "But don't get your hopes up."
"Why?" Arthur demanded. Merlin waited with baited breath for the answer.
"He will not welcome you," the thief explained, his voice full of scorn. "Balinor hates everyone and everything. A cave's the best place for him." With that, the thief left the room. Merlin slowly slid back under his covers, deeply troubled by the thief's assessment.
In the morning, the trio spent a while leading their horses on foot. Merlin noticed that Arthur kept stumbling, and Arthur noticed Merlin watching him. "It's all right," he insisted.
Merlin shook his head. [No, it's the wound. Let me have a look.]
Arthur reluctantly led them off the trail and stopped to let Merlin examine his shoulder. After a brief examination, Merlin turned to Mordred. [In my bag, I've got—get down!] They all ducked behind a log and watched several of Cenred's men walk past.
Once the men were gone, Mordred hissed Arthur's name. Arthur did not respond. Merlin shook Arthur, to no avail. Arthur had passed out.
The brothers shared a worried look. They changed Arthur's bandage, then hauled him onto his horse. Merlin tied the reins of Arthur's horse to his own, then they kept moving.
A few hours later, they reached Feorre Mountain. Worryingly, Arthur had yet to regain consciousness. The brothers left his horse hidden slightly off the trail, then made their way down to a nearby stream. The stream flowed into a cave at the foot of the mountain.
"Hello?" Mordred called, entering the cave.
No one answered. A little ways further into the cave, they spotted clear signs of human habitation. Suddenly, a man seized Merlin from behind, holding an arm around his neck and causing him to flail wildly. "What do you want here, boys?" the man hissed.
Merlin subconsciously used magic to boost his strength and break free. He quickly moved in front of Mordred and stared at the man, eyes wide in fear.
"Our friend is sick, he needs help!" Mordred said quickly.
The man relaxed ever so slightly, though he remained tense. Merlin calmed enough to take in the man's ragged appearance—shoulder-length black hair and a graying beard. Was this his father?
"Show me," the man commanded.
Both Merlin and Mordred stared at him.
"What are you waiting for?" the man said impatiently. "Fetch him!"
Mordred snapped out of it and ran back to the entrance of the cave. Merlin followed more slowly, still shaken from the aggressive greeting.
Once they'd brought Arthur to the cave, the man mixed up a poultice and applied it to Arthur's wound. Both Merlin and Mordred watched with interest. Once the man had finished with the poultice, he held a hand over Arthur. "Ahlúttre þá séocnes. Þurh-hæle bræd." The man stood up. "He needs rest."
"Will he be all right?" Mordred fretted.
"By morning," the man promised. He walked away to a cauldron where he'd been making soup. He ladled out three bowls and passed them around.
"Thank you," Mordred said politely. He glanced at Merlin, who had resumed staring at the man. "So, uh…how long have you lived here?"
"A few winters," the man said curtly. "Why are you here?"
Mordred glanced at Merlin again. "We're looking for someone. We heard he lived somewhere near here. A man named Balinor."
The man paused at the sound of the name, then continued eating his soup.
"You've never heard of him?"
The man simply took another spoonful.
"He was a Dragonlord."
"He's passed on," the man said quietly.
"He…he has?" Mordred said, disappointed.
Merlin continued staring at the man, barely touching his soup. Somehow, he felt a connection to the man—Merlin felt certain that this was Balinor.
"Who are you?" the man demanded harshly. He glanced at Merlin, then turned back to Mordred. "Does your friend ever speak, or does he just stare?!"
"He, uh, can't speak," Mordred explained. "I'm Mordred and this is my brother Merlin." Merlin scrutinized the man, hoping he would react to Merlin's name, but he did not.
"And him?" the man asked, pointing at Arthur.
"He's, uh, Lancelot," Mordred improvised. "He's a knight. A nice one."
"His name is Arthur Pendragon," the man growled. "He is Uther's son. This is Cenred's kingdom, he's asking for trouble. What do you want from me?!"
Merlin finally signed something. "He asks if you're Balinor."
Balinor bowed his head and did not deny it.
"The Great Dragon is attacking Camelot," Mordred continued.
"His name is Kilgharrah," Balinor snapped.
"Well we can't stop him!" Mordred said anxiously. "Only you, a Dragonlord, can!"
"He doesn't act blindly," Balinor said, unmoved. "He kills for a reason—vengeance. This is of Uther's making."
Merlin signed again. "He's killing innocent people! Women and children!"
"Uther pursued me!" Balinor exclaimed angrily. "He hunted me like an animal!"
"I know," Mordred said quietly.
Balinor stood up. "What do you know about anybody's life, boy?! Uther asked me to use my power to bring the last dragon to Camelot. He said he wanted to make peace with it, but he did not! He lied to me! He betrayed me! You want me to protect this man?"
Mordred also stood up. "I was born a druid. My entire clan, including my birth family, were slaughtered on Uther's orders! I only survived because Merlin here saved me—and in the process, he was strangled so badly his voice never recovered! We're not asking you to protect Uther—he can die in the fires for all I care. We're asking you to protect Camelot!"
"He killed every one of my kind!" Balinor ranted. "I alone escaped!"
Merlin signed a question which caught Mordred off guard. "Erm…Merlin asks where you went."
Balinor heaved a few deep breaths, calming slightly. "There's a place called Ealdor." He stared into the distance. "I had a life there. A woman. A good woman." He looked at the brothers again. "Ealdor is beyond Uther's realm, but still he pursued me. Why would he not let me be? What was it that I had done, that he wanted to destroy the life I'd built, abandon the woman I loved? He sent knights to kill me! I was forced to come here, to this! So…I understand how Kilgharrah feels. He's lost every one of his kind, every one of his kin. You want to know how that feels? Look around, boys. Let Uther die. Let Camelot fall."
Mordred glanced at his brother, who looked disappointed but apparently had no further comment. Sighing, Mordred turned back to Balinor. "You want everyone in Camelot to die?"
"Why should I care?"
"What if one of them was your son?" Mordred suggested. He was about to say more, but Merlin slightly shook his head.
"I don't have a son," Balinor said curtly. He walked away to wash his soup bowl.
Why didn't you want me to tell him? Mordred asked Merlin.
Merlin stared morosely at his father. I want to persuade him to help Camelot because it's the right thing to do, not because he has a son who lives there. Mother must have seen some good in him. I want to find it.
In the morning, the brothers sat just outside the entrance of the cave, watching Balinor look at something upstream. He had offered them breakfast, but made it clear he had no further interest in conversation.
"I feel great!" Arthur announced cheerfully, emerging from the cave. "What the hell did you give me?"
"It was all down to Balinor," Mordred answered, nodding at the Dragonlord.
Arthur climbed over the rocks toward the brothers. "So we've found him, then? Thank heaven for that."
[Doesn't mean he's willing to help,] Merlin signed grimly.
"What?" Arthur said in disbelief.
Merlin shook his head. [You won't persuade him.]
"Does he know what's at stake?" Arthur demanded.
Merlin nodded.
Arthur gaped. "What kind of a man is he?"
[I don't know,] Merlin signed, somewhat dejectedly. [I thought he'd be something…more.]
"We'll see about that," Arthur muttered. He walked downstream and approached Balinor. They spoke for a few minutes, too far away for the brothers to hear. Then Arthur returned to the brothers, looking slightly tense.
"What did he say?" Mordred asked.
"He'll change his mind," Arthur said confidently.
[He told you that?] Merlin signed hopefully.
"Just…give him a moment."
Balinor walked back over to them. The group stood in awkward silence for nearly a full minute. Finally, Balinor broke it. "Farewell then." He walked past them toward his cave.
"That's your decision?" Arthur demanded incredulously.
Balinor turned back around. "I will not help Uther," he hissed.
"Then the people of Camelot are damned!" Arthur exclaimed. "Have you no conscience?!"
"You should ask that question of your father!" Balinor snapped.
And you are no better than him! Merlin retorted. Balinor looked around in confusion, then his eyes lit on Merlin and he realized who had spoken. Mordred also looked at Merlin in surprise.
Arthur, having heard nothing, turned away in disgust. "Come on. We're leaving." Mordred glanced at Merlin, then followed Arthur back to the horses. Merlin stayed where he was.
You have magic, boy? Balinor asked curiously.
Since the day I was born. Merlin stood up. When I was ten years old, I saw an entire clan of innocent druids slaughtered in front of me. People I'd known my whole life. I myself was nearly killed in the attack, and I was left with no voice. I had to develop a whole new language in order to communicate. I've endured insults and scorn from people who mistake my lack of speech for lack of intelligence. I may not be living in a cave, but I know first hand the suffering Uther has caused. And in spite of this, I will not watch innocent people die—regardless of what their ruler has done. I witnessed a massacre once, and that was one time too many.
Shaking his head, Merlin finally turned and followed Arthur. He glanced over his shoulder, but Balinor had not moved.
Near nightfall, they began to set up camp. "Everything all right, Merlin?" Arthur asked worriedly. "You look like you have something on your mind."
[It's nothing.]
"It's something. Tell me," Arthur insisted.
Merlin continued unpacking supplies and did not respond. Mordred also said nothing, well aware of what was bothering Merlin and why he did not explain it.
Arthur sighed. "All right. I know I'm a prince, so we can't be friends. But if I wasn't a prince…I think we'd probably get on."
[So?] Merlin demanded, barely pausing in his unpacking.
"So that means you can tell me."
[True,] Merlin conceded. [But you see, if you weren't a prince then I'd tell you to mind your own damn business.]
Arthur blinked in surprise at Merlin's uncharacteristic rudeness. Then he looked to Mordred for an explanation, utterly bewildered.
"Are you missing Gaius?" Mordred suggested.
[Something like that,] Merlin signed stiffly.
"Well what is it?" Arthur pressed.
Merlin finally stopped arranging a fire pit and straightened. Arthur had never told anyone about Freya, surely he could be trusted with this too. [I'll tell you.] Merlin took a deep breath, genuinely trying to work up the courage to explain his connection to Balinor, but he couldn't manage it. [I'm worried about everyone back in Camelot, I hope they're all right.]
Arthur's expression softened. "Me too." Suddenly he froze. "Keep quiet."
A twig snapped somewhere nearby. Arthur picked up his sword and stalked toward the noise. Merlin and Mordred followed. Then another twig snapped right behind them. The trio whirled around and found themselves face-to-face with Balinor. "Careful, boys," he warned, though he smiled good-naturedly. "I thought you might need some help. This is dangerous country."
"Will you return to Camelot with us?" Arthur asked hopefully.
Balinor looked at Merlin. "The citizens of Camelot are not responsible for the actions of their king. In fact, there are some who risked their lives for me. I owe a debt that must be repaid."
"If you succeed in killing the dragon, you will not go unrewarded," Arthur promised.
Balinor shook his head. "I seek no reward."
Arthur shrugged and stabbed his sword into the ground. "Great! Let's eat."
Merlin and Balinor ventured into the surrounding woods to collect firewood together. Mordred took it upon himself to distract Arthur, figuring that Merlin wanted a private moment.
Merlin wasn't sure where to begin. Finally, he settled on Balinor's apparent healing spell. When you healed Arthur, I heard you mumble some words in the Old Tongue.
An ancient prayer, Balinor replied. The Old Religion can teach us many things.
I've heard druid prayers, but I've never heard that one, Merlin commented.
There's more than one facet to the Old Religion, Balinor explained. That's a Dragonlord prayer. I learned it from my father, and he from his.
So they were also Dragonlords?
Balinor bent to pick up another piece of wood. We'll need some kindling.
Merlin took a deep breath. Earlier…you spoke of Ealdor. You took refuge with a woman.
That was a long time ago, Balinor said sadly.
I grew up in Ealdor, Merlin revealed. Hunith is my mother.
She's still alive? Balinor asked hopefully.
Merlin nodded. Balinor's eyes briefly lit up, then he sobered. So she married. That's good.
Merlin shook his head. Mordred isn't hers by blood. She never married. He took another deep breath. I'm your son.
Total silence followed this pronouncement. For a long time, Balinor stared at Merlin, a thousand emotions racing across his face. I don't know what it is to have a son, he finally said.
Nor I a father, Merlin replied. Father and son smiled at each other.
Mordred and Arthur went straight to sleep after supper, but Merlin and Balinor stayed up. Balinor took out a knife and began whittling.
Why did you never return? Merlin asked.
I thought her life would be better without me, Balinor answered, subdued. Uther wanted me dead. If he'd found me, he'd have killed me, and your mother. I wanted her to be safe.
We could have come with you, Merlin suggested.
Balinor snorted bitterly. What kind of life would you have had here?
Merlin smiled, imagining a childhood with a father. We'd have been…happy.
And what of Mordred? Balinor pointed out. He said he only survived because you saved him. If you'd come with me, he'd be dead.
Merlin sobered, realizing the truth of that statement. Still, that didn't mean they couldn't become a family now. When we've finished in Camelot, I will take you to Ealdor.
Balinor shook his head. She won't recognize me. He paused in his whittling, staring at Merlin. I see her in you. You have her kindness. Even after all you've been through. He looked away. I wish I could have been there for you.
You're here now, Merlin said earnestly.
Balinor smiled briefly and returned to his whittling.
Merlin smiled back. How did you become a Dragonlord?
You don't choose to become a Dragonlord, Balinor explained. It's not something you're taught. It's a sacred gift. For thousands of years it's been handed down from father to son. And that is what you must now become, Merlin.
Merlin's head snapped up in surprise. I'd like that.
I've never heard of a Dragonlord who couldn't speak, but your magical voice seems to work just fine, and in the end that's what really counts. But like all Dragonlords, you won't know for sure that you have that power until you face your first dragon. Balinor blew some wood shavings off his carving. You should get some sleep. We've a big day ahead of us. Good night, son.
Merlin smiled again, choked up with emotion. Sleep well…Father.
In the morning, Merlin woke to see a wooden carving of a dragon sitting on a log near his face. He broke into a small smile, then jumped when Mordred lightly shook him. Merlin! Cenred's men are here!
Merlin bolted to his feet. Arthur and Balinor were already alert, Arthur with his hand on his sword hilt. A few moments later, two of Cenred's soldiers burst through the trees and attacked; apparently, they didn't care that there was a child in the group. Merlin forced down his instinctive panic. He didn't want to have a breakdown in front of his father, and he needed to look after Mordred. He quickly dragged his brother behind a tree. Stay there!
Arthur rapidly drew his sword and met the oncoming attack. He quickly disarmed the first man and turned his attention to the second. Merlin spotted a third man approaching from another direction, and he grabbed the first soldier's fallen sword and tossed it to Balinor. Balinor caught it and attacked the newcomer. Merlin stepped back out of the melee, keeping an eye out for more enemies.
More soldiers came, and Arthur's battle took him several paces away through the woods. Mordred followed, darting between trees. Surreptitiously, he grabbed a sword from another fallen soldier. When he caught up to Arthur, the prince was battling two enemies at once, and a third was sneaking up behind him. Mordred knew it would be incredibly difficult for Arthur to hold off all three at once, so he ran up and attacked the third soldier. The soldier was so surprised at being attacked by a child that Mordred quickly disarmed and stabbed him.
Arthur finished with his opponents and turned around. "Mordred?" Slowly, the prince took in the sight of Mordred standing over the third soldier with a bloody sword. "You just saved my life!"
"I…guess so." Mordred stared at the body for a few moments longer, then dropped the sword.
"Rather young for your first kill," Arthur commented, sounding slightly concerned. "You okay?"
Mordred looked at the body again. It wasn't actually his first kill, but it was the first time he'd meant to kill. Still…he'd saved Arthur, just like when he dropped the chandelier on that witch at the feast. And back then, Merlin had said not to feel guilty for saving a life. "I'm fine."
Meanwhile, Merlin and Balinor were still in the clearing where they'd slept. Another soldier burst into the clearing and attacked Merlin, and Merlin did his best to dodge the attacks. He was unarmed, which meant he could only fight back with magic…but he wasn't sure if Arthur was actually out of sight.
That hesitation cost him. Balinor lunged in front of Merlin to parry the soldier's next blow. The blow after that landed in Balinor's gut. Balinor choked, then sagged back into Merlin's arms. Merlin magically hurled the soldier into a nearby tree, no longer caring if Arthur saw.
Carefully, Merlin lowered his father to the ground. Please, hold on. I can save you!
Merlin, listen to me. When you face the dragon, remember: be strong. A dragon's heart is on its right side, not its left.
I can't do it alone! Merlin begged.
Listen to me! Balinor repeated urgently. You are my son. I've seen enough in you to know that you will make me proud.
Merlin nodded, in tears. Balinor reached up to brush away a tear, then he sagged back. His eyes turned glassy and he stopped breathing.
No…Father…no… Merlin broke down. He'd always wished he could meet his father, and he'd finally gotten his wish only for his father to be cruelly snatched away forever. Will, Freya, Morgana, and now his father…Merlin didn't know how much more loss he could take.
Behind him, Arthur yelled in anger and frustration, startling Merlin. Quickly, he wiped away his tears and forced himself to regain his composure. Once he'd banished the grief from his face as best he could, he turned around. Arthur had sunk to the ground, looking resigned. Mordred stood next to him, giving Merlin a sympathetic look.
"Camelot is doomed," Arthur said, defeated.
Merlin…I'm so sorry, Mordred murmured. He'd felt proud of himself when he'd saved Arthur, but his victory had been short-lived. Yes, he had proved his usefulness on the quest…but it hadn't been enough.
Late that afternoon, they arrived back in Camelot. Arthur immediately went to report to his father, tailed by Merlin and Mordred. Uther was accompanied by Gaius and a large group of knights, though Merlin was too upset to be unnerved by the knights.
"I'm sorry, Father, I have failed you," Arthur announced solemnly. "The last Dragonlord is dead." Gaius glanced at Merlin, who was on the verge of tears again.
"There were many years when I might have wished for that news," Uther said wearily. Mordred glared at the king. Merlin, for his part, was too emotionally drained to be offended.
"All is not lost, Father," Arthur vowed. "We have to fight the monster ourselves. So let us ride out and fight on our own terms. On open ground, on horseback, where we can maneuver better."
"There is no point," Uther argued, sounding thoroughly defeated.
"So what? We stand here and watch Camelot fall?"
After a few moments, Uther sighed and nodded. "You have my blessing."
Arthur turned to the room at large. "I need a dozen knights! Those who do not wish to fight can do so without stain on their character, for those brave enough to volunteer should know…that the chances of returning are slim."
There was nearly a minute of silence as the knights contemplated this. Then Leon stepped forward and nodded at Arthur. One by one, every single knight in the room followed, forming a circle around their prince.
Merlin sat in his bedroom, staring at Balinor's dragon carving, tears once again streaming down his face. Now that they were away from prying eyes, Mordred hugged his brother, trying to offer comfort. Merlin returned the embrace, but did not cheer up.
After a while, Gaius entered the room. "Merlin, what happened?" he asked quietly.
Merlin finally let go of Mordred. [I couldn't save him.] He sniffed. [Father said the Dragonlord's gift is passed from father to son, but when I faced the Great Dragon, my magic was useless.]
Gaius sat down on the other bed. "That's because your father wasn't dead. It's only then you can inherit his powers."
Merlin swallowed hard. [Do you think I'm strong enough to stand up to him?]
"Only time will tell."
"You can do it, Merlin," Mordred insisted. "I believe in you."
A little while later, Merlin went to Arthur's chambers to help him with his armor. "Well look on the bright side, Merlin," Arthur said, watching Merlin fasten his voider. "Chances are, you're not going to have to clean this again."
[That's not funny,] Merlin signed, annoyed that Arthur could joke about this. [You must be careful today. Do not force the battle.]
Arthur gave him an odd look. "Are you trying to give me battle advice?"
Merlin shrugged. [Let matters take their course.] He moved behind Arthur to fasten his hauberk.
Arthur sighed. "Merlin, if I die, please…" He turned around to face Merlin. "The Dragonlord today. I saw you." Merlin tensed warily. "One thing I tell all my young knights: no man is worth your tears."
Merlin shook his head. [Every man is worth tears. If death ceases to be a tragedy, then we become savages.]
Arthur sighed again. "Just don't let grief overwhelm you." He picked up his sword and walked to the door.
Merlin hesitated, then grabbed a sword for appearance's sake and followed. Arthur stopped short and stared at him. "What are you doing?"
[I'm coming with you.]
Arthur gaped. "You're going to accompany a dozen knights to battle a dragon?"
Merlin firmly met Arthur's gaze. [If that's what it takes. I may not be a knight—I may not particularly care for knighthood—but that doesn't mean I disagree with all of your ideals. I won't stand here and watch Camelot fall either.]
After a moment, Arthur nodded and smiled warmly. Together, they walked out to meet up with the knights.
That night, the dragon attacked the castle again, displaying no interest in Arthur's patrol. Mordred groaned in frustration as he realized the problem. I saved Arthur's life today! he mentally yelled at the dragon. I'm not about to fulfill your stupid prophecy, so go pick on someone else—like all the knights currently out in the open!
So be it, the dragon snarled back at Mordred. Large wings beat through the air. Mordred cautiously looked out the window to see the dragon flying away from the castle, and he heaved a sigh of relief. Merlin could do this. He refused to believe otherwise.
The knights and Merlin formed two lines in a moonlit clearing some ways outside the castle, though still within sight of its walls. Finally, they heard the sound of the dragon approaching, and the dragon soon flew into view. "Hold firm," Arthur commanded. "Hold…hold…hold…now!"
The knights charged forward—some with spears, others with crossbows. They encircled the dragon as he landed in the center of the clearing. The dragon lashed out with claws and tail, knocking Merlin, Arthur, and half the knights off their horses. Then the dragon turned to the remaining knights and breathed fire, incinerating them.
No…stop! Merlin begged.
The dragon turned back to Merlin and Arthur, who appeared to be the only two who had not been killed or knocked out by their fall. Arthur grabbed a nearby spear and hefted it. The dragon advanced on him. For several moments, the dragon stood still, contemplating the king of his prophecies…then he opened his mouth and breathed fire again. Arthur ducked and rolled, coming up on the dragon's left and stabbing him in the chest. The dragon reared up, roaring, and swatted Arthur away. Arthur landed heavily and did not get up.
Merlin shakily regained his feet. He could swear he heard his father's voice in his head. You're the last Dragonlord now. You alone carry the ancient gift. Deep within yourself, you must find the voice that you and Kilgharrah share, for your soul and his are brothers. When you speak to him as kin, he must obey your will.
Merlin slowly walked toward Kilgharrah. Kilgharrah watched him expectantly, making no move to attack. Merlin tilted back his head to look Kilgharrah in the eye. O dracan! Nán dyd ǽlc áciere miss! Eftsíðas eom ála cræt! Géate' stǽr ábære gárrǽs! Géate cyre. Mé tácen átende diegollice. Car grise áþes.
Kilgharrah bowed his head in deference. Merlin picked up the fallen spear. "I am the last of my kind, Merlin," Kilgharrah said, his voice full of sadness. "Whatever wrongs I have done, do not make me responsible for the death of my noble breed."
Merlin lunged with the spear. Kilgharrah cringed, but Merlin stopped short without harming him. Now that he had found the connection between himself and Kilgharrah, he was loath to sever it—despite Kilgharrah's numerous misdeeds. Go! Merlin cried. Leave! If you ever attack Camelot again—if you ever attack Mordred again—I will kill you!
Kilgharrah bowed his head once more. Merlin tossed aside the spear. I have shown you mercy, now you must do the same to others.
"Young warlock, what you have shown is what you will be. I will not forget your clemency. I'm sure our paths will cross again." With that, Kilgharrah spread his wings and flew away into the night sky.
Merlin watched him go, tears in his eyes. He didn't know if he could ever forgive the dragon, but his father was right—Merlin's soul and Kilgharrah's were brothers.
Arthur stirred. "What happened?"
[You dealt him a mortal blow,] Merlin improvised. [He's flown away to die.]
"He's gone?" Arthur demanded in disbelief.
Merlin nodded. [You did it.]
Arthur laughed, exhilarated with victory. Merlin smiled to himself, a burgeoning sense of victory swelling within his own chest.
Gwen, Gaius and Mordred met them as they returned to Camelot. Gwen embraced Arthur while Mordred embraced Merlin. Gaius smiled at his wards.
A few moments later, Merlin pulled away to sign. [I felt him there with me.]
"He'll always be with you," Gaius promised.
Merlin nodded. [I hope so.]
Gaius smiled sadly. "Merlin…I know I can never compare with your father, but for what it's worth, you've still got me."
Merlin smiled and hugged Gaius as well. Gaius was so surprised by the rare gesture of affection that it took him a moment to return the embrace. Mordred quickly joined in. Balinor might be gone, but Merlin still had a family.
A/N: Once again I'm taking a week off between seasons, so see you in two weeks.