Chapter 29

It was the day before the meeting arrived and Camelot had transformed overnight into a frenzy of activity. There seemed to be new servants everywhere as they rushed around organising each part of the castle so they could welcome their important guests. Every official room by now had already been cleaned, decorated with every amenity catered for.

Guinevere had helped in the organisation overall, along with Hunith, who seemed only too happy to help. The Knights too, had played their part, transporting heavy loads into the meeting room. Even Merlin and Arthur, had been seen putting up some decorations in the state rooms, as the big day approached. There were colourful sashes around the windows. Every table had been newly polished, chairs redecorated. The kitchens had been busy preparing banquets of food for the leaders and their entourages.

Nothing had been left to chance by Arthur, who was determined there would be no mishaps, or crises on that most important day. He revelled in the idea that soon he could officially announce the change in Camelot's direction. He also loved how everyone, no matter how important or not had pulled together, to get everything ready. It had been a real team effort. He could already sense the excitement of the occasion beginning to take over.

For Merlin it had been a hugely busy time. He had fretted over his official speech, in the end having to run it by Gaius. It had only been the evening before that he was entirely happy with it. Arthur, to his amusement had already "perfected" his. He had noticed an almost competitive edge between his friend and himself now. Merlin suspected though, that Guinevere may have helped with the speech. It appeared to have her calm and considered manner in it. Either way it was one less thing for Merlin to have to do.

He had the spent the evening before in the company of first King Rodor and then his daughter Mithian. Rodor had wanted to go through his ideas for the possibility of involving other Kingdoms into their future magical plans. Merlin realised it was an obvious next step for them to expand into places such as Nemeth. Rodor had vast experiences of dealing with magical matters and seemed happy to put himself at Merlin's disposal.

After that fruitful meeting, Merlin then enjoyed the company of Mithian. She had already spent a couple of hours helping to decorate the state room. When Merlin had pointed out she was actually a guest, she had laughed it away saying she was enjoying herself. Merlin admired the ability she had just being like everyone else. She had no airs and graces and treated everyone no matter who they were with the same attention and politeness. She also had a genuine sense of style, without being too extravagant. Merlin had enjoyed his time with her and agreed to meet up with her again, if time allowed. He knew though that could be doubtful if any problem came up. As the day grew nearer so his fears begin to increase. Two of the groups had an unknown attitude to magic, Merlin had no real idea how either of them would react to him. He decided in the end just to take it as it came.

The night before the guests were due to arrive in Camelot, Merlin had spent alone in his room. He had taken out the Grimoire that his mother had given to him in Ealdor. By now the ancient language that was written in the book was becoming easier to understand. He realised it was just an older more old-fashioned style of communication, he was actually amazed at how quickly he had got to grips with it.

While the spells were all in the ancient tongue, there were other passages in the native language. He had already found the paragraph about the healing stone his mother had spoken about. The stone according to the grimoire was centuries old and possessed special healing powers of both physical and mental variety. Merlin realised this could be something that Gaius and Alice would find interesting.

He continued to flick through the Grimoire anxious to find something, anything that could enable him to bring Aithusa's suffering, to an end. He felt within his bones there had to be a spell or message which would lead him to make the connection he needed too. He had spoken to Mervyn upon his arrival and he had assured Merlin the dragon was fine. She was still staying in the area Merlin had left her, but looked to have settled down and she seemed to be reasonably content.

But Merlin was desperate for more than that for her. He remembered what Kilgharrah had said, all those years ago. It seemed the tragic that so far, the young dragon had proved to be anything but lucky for Albion, Merlin was determined to change that. He continued to search through the pages impatiently, presently a knock distracted him. He looked around wondering who it could be. He knew the Knights and Arthur would be busy, Gaius and Alice rarely left their room in the evening apart from visits to their patients. Curiosity got the better of him and he moved over to the door, he opened it and stared at the young man who stood there, a smile on his face.

"You don't remember me," the young man said, his smile becoming bigger.

He was a bit smaller than Merlin, in brown trousers and a jacket that had seen better days. There was something about the eyes that seemed strangely familiar to Merlin, and the young man's gawky manner, he thought hard. He then smiled as his guest's name came to his lips.

"Gilli, welcome back to Camelot," Merlin laughed back, "Please come in,"

Gilli stepped in the room and had a good look around Merlin's apartment.

"This is lovely," he said, "I hope I wasn't disturbing you, I gather you are very busy at the moment." he said,

"Never too busy to see you," Merlin replied, "How are you?"

"I am well. I was curious to come back to Camelot after hearing about the magical ban being lifted. Just like you said it would be all those years ago," the young man nodded.

"Well, I can't pretend it happened in the way I was expecting." Merlin grinned, amazed that even now he could talk about it so openly. It made him realise all over again how far he and Arthur had come.

"Yes, I heard from a villager how you saved the King's life," Gilli said, looking impressed.

"One day, maybe I'll get around to telling you more about that day. But I am more interested in finding out about what you've been doing." Merlin suggested, anxious to get away from the Morgana incident for now. He pointed at a chair and poured Gilli a drink as he listened to his story.

"I was in a village in Nemeth, King Rodor's Kingdom. They had started a school for children with magical abilities. Some had problems controlling their skills, we worked with a group of Druids to help them overcome their situation,"

Merlin grew excited, realising his initial idea about Gilli had been a good one. "Yes, I was speaking with King Rodor the other night, he told me about this school."

"King Rodor is a very impressive man. I was so happy with how he and his family have lived with magic, in their Kingdom. It's been a really interesting job working with them. I grew friendly with Nael he is a right character, a bit of a hot head maybe sometimes, but he has a good heart. Mithian too would involve herself, she is such a kind-hearted individual. The whole family were supportive of our aims. It makes such a difference,"

"It sounds as if you have done really well for yourself I am really pleased for you," Merlin nodded, watching him carefully.

"I met one of your Knights and he told me all about what had happened, I knew I had to visit and see Camelot once again. It seems you are already making a difference,"

"Gilli, I feel I owe you an honest explanation. The Knight you met was Lancelot and I asked him to track you down, as I have a proposition for you," Merlin explained, hoping Gilli would not take offence.

"Ah, I had a feeling it was a bit of a coincidence that I met Lancelot when I did," the young man laughed. "I'm flattered that you would think about me at all, considering our last meeting,"

"You have nothing to reproach yourself for, I will never forget that day you saved my life. Camelot is facing huge challenges. Tomorrow Arthur will officially announce to the various leaders, that the magic ban will be lifted. I have already begun working with various people, in how we take the Kingdom forward on the back of that. But I have a particular job in mind for you, considering your experience. For now, though, I can't say exactly what it is, as I haven't discussed it fully with Arthur yet. I am hoping you will take a temporary position here, until I get that chance,"

"As I said before I am happy that you have even thought about me. As it happens I am looking for a new challenge, so I will be happy to assist you in any way I can," Gilli smiled.

"That's wonderful. I have been speaking with Gaius I'm sure you remember him," Merlin said,

"Of course, I do," Gilli said, "How is he?"

"He's very well as it happens, he has his former fiancé Alice back with him. I think its true to say she has given him a new lease of life. But he is getting older and could do with a hand. I know you said you had some healing experience, so I wondered if you would mind helping him, until I can get my idea up and running?" Merlin said,

"It will be an honour to assist Gaius, he is okay about it?" Gilli wondered,

"It was him who suggested it. Where are you staying?" merlin asked,

"I have a room in the lower town, a nice enough place. Although a bit cold at night," Gilli explained.

"Come to me tomorrow we will have an apartment for you, that's if you'd like too," Merlin smiled.

"Really? You mean it?" Gilli asked, his eyes amazed.

Merlin laughed, "The job I have for you will be an important one, so you may as well get used to living within the confines of court life,"

"I can't believe how much my life has suddenly changed upon that meeting with Lancelot. Thank you for thinking about me, I cannot wait to start now and assist you anyway I can. It is amazing how one day a new opportunity arrives. I think I had better go and get a good night's rest, it sounds like I have a busy day ahead," Gilli said, holding out his hand.

Merlin took it, "It is good to have you with us, we need every bit of help we can,"

"I won't let you down," Gilli promised.

Merlin escorted him to the door as he opened it he saw a shadow and jumped as he realised Mithian was standing outside.

"Gilli, what a surprise," Mithian laughed,

"My Lady, as ever a pleasure to see you," Gilli smiled, taking her hand.

Merlin watched them closely realising they seemed quite close and completely at ease in each other's company. Gilli though quickly excused himself and walked away leaving Merlin enjoying the laugher in Mithian's eyes.

"Oh, come in," Merlin smiled, "It is best not to invite too much gossip,"

"So, me being outside your room would invite gossip in Camelot would it?" Mithian asked, her eyes playful.

"You of all people know about gossip and Court life," Merlin grinned, "I dare say, you have been the cause of it yourself once or twice?"

"Intriguing, what gossip about me have you heard?" Mithian asked, sitting down on a chair. Merlin poured her a drink and gave it to her still feeling unreal that Mithian seemed so pleased to see him.

"I have heard you cause a stir wherever you go," Merlin said,

"If only my life were that interesting," Mithian smiled,

"Out of curiosity what brings you here?" Merlin asked, "I thought you'd be having an early night being a busy day tomorrow,"

"I thought you might be a bit nervous so thought I would come around and take your mind away from it all," Mithian said, "I know how you are fretting about things despite your denials,"

Merlin loved the way she was suddenly so honest and open with him. They could alter their behaviour together instantly he found. With Mithian he didn't feel there was any pretence, which was rare for someone of royalty. Once more her kindness touched him.

"Thank you for the thought. As it happens its been a busy night one way or another,"

Merlin admitted, "You seemed to know Gilli really well,"

"I used to visit the magical school where he taught at, I would take some really badly baked cakes around there and meet the children," Mithian explained, "We always seemed to get on very well, he has a really interesting take on all sorts of things. I used to love talking to him,"

"That school seemed to be a real success in Nemeth" Merlin said, "How did it start?"

"My father was brought up by people who had magic. In his childhood he was surrounded by them so he was always used to having magical people around him. There were even rumours that our family had magic in it going back a few centuries. I'm not entirely sure about that though. Nael and I had a maid who was a Druid called Else. She was such an important person in our young lives. She was a real character, used to tell me all sorts of magical tales. She used to say in the Darkling Woods there were unicorns," Mithian laughed,

"There are, or at least there were," Merlin said smiling,

"Really? I assumed it was just a story. I know they used to exist but no one has seen them for years," Mithian replied,

"When I first started working with Arthur we came across one. At the time Arthur was in hunting mode and he basically hit it with an arrow, after I tried to get it to leave. It brought a curse down on Camelot." Merlin explained,

"No!" Mithian cried out, "Wasn't there a keeper of the unicorns what was he called, no don't tell me, I will remember. Oh, I know Anhora,"

"That's correct Arthur and I came across him, Arthur had to prove himself worthy for the curse to be lifted,"

"For a person to atone for killing a pure-hearted unicorn, then that person had to prove themselves with an equally pure-hearted act," Mithian finished the story for him.

"That' right, your maid taught you well," Merlin laughed,

Mithian laughed, "That's amazing I always thought it was just a fairy-tale,"

"Sometimes magic and life are strange companions," Merlin pointed out, "I suppose in a way we're going to rediscover it now,"

"I suppose so. It must be an emotional moment for you, I mean I'm sure you always hoped this would happen. But there was never any guarantee that it would," Mithian remarked.

As her words sank in Merlin realised in essence that she was correct, but luckily his and Arthur's destinies had proved to be stubborn entities which had forced the world around them to change with it.

"Arthur and I always had a shared destiny in making this happen. Like you say though, life has a habit of complicating things. There was many a day when I questioned myself as to whether it would in my weaker moments,"

"And Arthur too?" Mithian enquired,

For the first time, Merlin felt troubled under her intense gaze. But as he considered things, he realised he had never lost his true belief in his friend. It was that which made their relationship so strong he now realised.

"No, I always believed in Arthur, even if he had never accepted magic, I would still have chosen to serve him. I would do anything for him," Merlin met Mithian's eyes, smiling gently at the surprise in her face.

"Even though you'd have to go on denying yourself?" she asked,

Merlin considered the question once again, though he already knew the answer deep down, he was keen to share the truth with Mithian so she could understand fully.

"Absolutely. You see, I always knew Arthur was at heart a good man. He had been brought up to fear magic, he had also seen the abusive side of it as well. But he would always be fair in his judgement. No matter what, he always treated me with respect. I saw the decency in him, before he had any reason to need to show me anything at all,"

For the first time there was a brief silence between them. He knew for anyone else understanding his loyalty to Arthur, would be a struggle to comprehend. Perhaps they needed to be inside the circle of Camelot's majesty to truly appreciate the feeling behind it.

Merlin remembered once more the time Arthur had invited them all to give their vows to him, inside the castle of the ancient Kings. That day the legend of King Arthur had been born, but it was only now that Arthur the man had become a true reality. A man who had chosen to see past the beliefs of his father, to see the truth surrounding magic and how it held together the whole Kingdom to its very core.

He wished he could convey his feelings better to Mithian. But deep down, he suspected she already understood the concept pretty well. Not for the first time he wondered what would happen to her. He knew eventually being a Princess she would marry someone, to unite two Kingdoms. He hoped with all his heart, it would be someone worthy of her. He suspected by then their friendship would be a distant memory, it was something that filled him with despair. He realised he could seldom talk to others, how he spoke to her. But they were two people going in opposite directions, he just passionately hoped whatever her future, it would be a happy one.

He jumped, as her voice interrupted his gloomy thoughts.

"Forgive me, you must be tired by now and you need a good night's rest before tomorrow begins," Mithian said, putting the glass down on the table. "I bid you good night,"

"Thank you Mithian once again, for," Merlin paused, fighting for the right words, "For being so generous in thinking about me,"

"Why wouldn't I think about you, you are an incredible man," she replied, "I hope Arthur realises how lucky he is to have you by his side,"

"I assure you he does," Merlin smiled,

"I know you will be busy over the next couple of days, but I hope our paths cross at some time," Mithian replied,

"I will endeavour to make sure they do, my lady," Merlin said, noticing that suddenly it was Mithian finding it hard to look at him.

"Good night Merlin," Mithian stood on her tip toes planting a kiss on his cheek.

Merlin was in a trance as she walked passed him, by the time he had come out of it he realised to his embarrassment she had left. Only the faint aroma of her perfume lingered around him, all he could do was close his eyes and remember the light kiss on his face. He understood now her reluctance in looking at him, as she found her courage to act, had it been an impulse or something more he wondered?

But just as a slight excitement surfaced he shot it down quickly. Tomorrow would be the most important day of his and Arthur's life. He could not allow any thought of a fanciful future with Mithian cloud that, he realised he was probably misreading her intentions anyway.

He had so few experiences with women especially since the death of Freya, Arthur and Camelot took up all his time. That wouldn't change in the foreseeable future. He just needed to accept the inevitable. Feeling well and truly brassed off he threw himself onto his bed unhappily. Sleep would not choose to be easy that night.

Next Morning

It was early and Arthur was meeting with Guinevere, Merlin and the Knights making sure everything was arranged as planned. The different leaders would all arrive within an hour of each other, Arthur knew he and Guinevere had to greet each one personally. He also had a pressing problem involving King Martin, who had refused to give an answer on whether he was accepting Camelot's invitation. The son of Lot who had recently taken over from his father was already proving a thorn in the side to the new order.

Arthur had in the end sent over Leon to see if he could get an answer. Leon and the Knights had been left standing outside the castle, with the new King refusing to invite them inside. After a couple of frustrating nights Arthur had sent word to Leon to return back to Camelot. He was anxious to hear Leon's report on the matter.

"So, Sir Leon, what happened?" Arthur asked, feeling apprehensive and not wanting any problems arising before the conference had even begun.

"Not a lot sire to be honest. We made our way into his Kingdom and waited outside his courtyard for two days. On each day he refused to open the gates to let us in,"

"Did you not manage to see anyone?" Arthur asked,

"No one of real importance sire, just a very embarrassed courtier who assured us he wouldn't allow us in, no matter what," Leon explained,

Arthur grimaced turning his back. "This is something we don't need,"

"Whatever happens we cannot allow this to interrupt the conference, even if it has to go on without him," Guinevere said, determination in her voice.

"He has only just taken over from his father," Merlin pointed out, "He is probably just trying to prove to his people that he is not someone who will be bossed around by anyone,"

Arthur thought for a second. He knew both Guinevere and Merlin had a point, the conference must carry on regardless. He also kind of understood the game King Martin was playing, in setting the tone of his rule even if it seemed entirely trivial to him.

Arthur turned around having come to a decision. He was determined nothing would stand in the way, of pushing through the new direction for his Kingdom. The other leaders would have his full attention, he would worry about the young King further down the line.

"We all know the timetable. It is important there's an official greeting for each party. Leon, you and the Knights know the order I take it?"

"We do sire. The party from Gawant will arrive first. I will meet them and bring them into the courtyard. Lancelot, Percival will meet the others,"

"Good, remember when dealing with leaders always treat everyone exactly the same," Arthur smiled,

"I've heard that a bit of exaggerating their importance goes down well too," Merlin remarked, avoiding looking at Arthur. He could already sense the sarcastic expression on his friend's face, though to his relief Arthur shared in the laugher.

"A pity you didn't try that Merlin then," Arthur pointed out,

"I heard you were the exception to the case," Merlin lied,

Arthur enjoyed the sudden toning down of the mood, before bringing the conversation to a close. "Thanks everybody, this is a crucial day for our Kingdom's future, I'm grateful for everyone' assistance over the last few days. Now let's work to make this a success,"

The Knight's excused themselves and made haste to greet their visitors. In the end Arthur was left with Merlin and Guinevere, the two most important people in his life and without whom he would never have made it through.

"Here we are then," he said, "I am grateful for both of you for your support over the last few months. I think it only right Merlin that you stand with Guinevere and I to greet our visitors. I am sure you would prefer to disappear but may as well get used to this part of Court life, as soon as possible," Arthur could clearly read his friend's expression without Merlin saying anything. "I promise you, it's not that bad,"

"I suppose I am about to find that out," Merlin said, blowing his cheeks out.

"I actually think you will find it easier than you think," Guinevere pointed out, "Its not like it's completely new to you,"

"I am usually in the background," Merlin said, agitating suddenly,

"You still will be," Arthur pointed out, "You won't be standing in front of me,"

"In that case," Merlin replied, "No will notice if I'm not there,"

"Merlin, you won't get out of this so you will just have to adapt," Arthur said sternly, before breaking out into a grin. It wasn't often he could get the last word, so he decided to make the most of it.

"After that comment, how could I possibly not enjoy it," Merlin replied, sarcasm leaping out of every word.

"I will leave you boys to come to terms with your new arrangement then," Guinevere laughed, "Don't forget our first guest's will arrive shortly best faces on,"

"Where are you going?" Arthur asked, surprised.

"I just have to pop in and see Alice, I won't be long." Guinevere assured him.

Arthur and Merlin exchanged expressions. "What's that about?" Arthur asked,

"Arthur, I am holding endless meetings and have other responsibilities yet, you still expect me to know what Guinevere's every thought is!"

"I was only asking, thought you may have picked up some information. She seems to be seeing Alice a lot,"

"Maybe she would like to get away from her husband," Merlin suggested,

"Merlin!" Arthur barked,

"It was only a joke," Merlin said, "Albeit a bad one,"

Arthur laughed. "You will be fine Merlin I promise you. It can't be worse than having to deny your whole existence can it?" There was a pause before his friend answered.

"When you put it like that, I suppose not. It's just very different," Merlin replied,

"You don't need to tell me. It's just as strange for me," Arthur admitted,

"A huge moment in Camelot's future," Merlin said quietly, "A moment I cannot wait to realise. Although it's pretty scary too,"

Arthur thought about his words and let them sink in. He realised they were just as relevant to himself. "True, yet according to the prophecy it was our destiny to bring the Kingdom to this moment. So somehow it seems very real now,"

"Destinies are funny things aren't they," Merlin smiled,

"Funny and life-changing. We have to make this work somehow Merlin and bring the Kingdoms into one entity. Strength is in numbers and that can make the difference for everything we're aiming for,"

Merlin nodded, "I will do everything I can to bring this together, you have my vow like always,"

They clenched their arms and their eyes met and each saw the strength in the other.

"Thank you, my friend," Arthur replied, "Now, lets go and start making the future,"