Disclaimer: I do not own 'Merlin'. I only own OC characters!
Please note, the Rating has changed: M for language & fight scenes.
A/N- Please note - You will still be able to follow this story without knowing the TV episodes.
Thank you so much everyone for your reviews, follows and favourites; Short But Deadly, Kumiuko, Crystal-Wolf-Guardain-967, Angel Cauldwell, maisyformerlin, Sam, saya659 and Guests for your reviews! I really appreciate them and love to read them! They spur me on :) Thank you also to all of those who have added this story to their alerts or added it as a favourite!
Also, the battle and ending will now vary to the TV show, for obvious reasons! I hope you like it :D
I've been so excited to release this chapter for a while now – ever since I first started planning the story a few years ago! But now that we are coming closer to the end of Aria's Destiny, I can feel the excitement building! I hope you enjoy this chapter, please leave a review if you are able to, it really brightens up my day :)
Thank you to my fantastic beta AnotherWorld3111! :)
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Chapter 37: The Return
Aria sat in Gaius's chamber with her head in her hands. She couldn't stop replaying the image of Camelot's Knights leaving the castle courtyard in her mind. Ever since that morning she had felt sick and had even thrown up earlier. She rubbed her stomach gently.
"Are you alright, my child?" Gaius walked over and sat next to her, concern written on his elderly face.
"I'm not sure, Gaius." Aria sighed and looked up, her eyes tired and sad, "I know Merlin will do the best he can, but I am so worried about him. I even tried going to the library and speaking with Geoffrey this morning and that didn't help. Not to mention, Nancy is also distraught as George has been sent out with the other Knights. I told her to rest today, but she wants to remain too busy to think. I'm not only worried about Merlin, but my friends as well. Hell, Arthur is meant to perish in this battle, Gaius. I just can't even… I can't…" She dropped her head in her hands again.
"Come now, let me get you a calming draught."
Aria sniffed in response, "Thank you, Gaius." She looked up again, "I just feel like there is more I should be doing. I know Merlin said I was to stay here and do nothing but the prophecy was about me. Don't you remember? Oh- thank you." She gratefully accepted the cup of softly bubbling liquid from Gaius.
"I do remember." Gaius nodded and sat down again, "But I do agree with Merlin that there is nothing you could do in this situation. You do not have magic nor are you able to fight with a sword. You would not last long against Morgana and Mordred."
"I know." Aria's shoulders slumped in defeat, "But I have this niggling feeling there is still something I need to do. Ugh, why couldn't I have gotten some magic at least when Merlin did that magic transference spell on me a couple of years ago."
"It is true that we thought you may have withheld some of Merlin's magic within you, but it seems as though either way, it has not activated."
"Yes, I know. Argh, why do I have this weird feeling – ouch!" Aria gripped her head as searing pain flashed through her.
"Aria, what ails you?" Gaius looked at her in concern.
"Oh, it's just this silly headache I've been getting for a while now."
"How long have you been getting these headaches?"
"Erm, well it all started really I suppose… gosh… over a year ago now. I've just been ignoring it for a really long time, but it never used to be so bad. I only had a headache once a month to begin with, but they have been getting longer and more frequent in the last six months."
"I see." Gaius stood up and walked over to his work bench, "You should have mentioned this to me when they started, Aria. You know better than to let things fester. Especially for such a long time."
"I know and I am sorry, Gaius. When they first started happening everything was up in the air with Morgana and then I got married… sorry, I know these are just excuses. I should have mentioned the headaches." She rubbed her temples, the pain still evident.
"Try this." He handed her a glass cup with a pale green liquid in. Aria recognised it as a simple herbal remedy for curing aches and pains.
She sipped the liquid and shuddered slightly at the sour taste. She waited a moment but the headache did not abate.
"How does that feel?" He questioned.
"Um, better, thank you."
"Aria." He warned, "Tell me truthfully."
She winced, "It feels the same – in fact, it sort of feels… angry that I'm trying to cure it. Which makes no sense. Headaches aren't sentient." She pushed into her temples again.
"I see." Gaius replied, deep in thought, "Have some more water and lie down. I will research into this and find a remedy."
"Thank you, Gaius." She smiled gratefully, "I'll do that. I think it's probably just the stress of everything."
"Don't worry, my child. I need to do something whilst waiting here at the castle. Arthur would not let me go with him to treat the wounded, fearing I was too elderly to do so. Even against my wishes." He tutted, "I could have been a much greater help there."
"I know your frustration, Gaius. But from what I have heard, I think it is better you stay here instead."
"I have healed many a wounded Knight in battle."
"I know." Aria held up her hands in defence, "I know, Gaius. You are incredibly brave, but Arthur truly cares for you – that is why he asked you to stay. He was also upset about Merlin's abandonment, although we both know that is most definitely not the case."
"I just hope Merlin prevents the need for Arthur to arrive at Camlann in the first place. If I am hailed, or if I hear word of a serious casualty the King has suffered, I will not hesitate to travel to there as swiftly as I am able."
"I can assure you I too will be with you if that is the case." Aria responded, gripping her head again, "Ow, maybe I should take a nap now."
Gaius nodded in agreement. As she walked out of the room towards her bedchambers, she did not see the look of concern and worry on Gaius's face.
~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~
"Any news?" Gwen asked Sir Giles, who had been tasked with staying behind at the castle.
He shifted on his feet, "No, Your Highness, we have heard nothing yet." He sighed, "I do wish I could have joined them."
Gwen smiled kindly, "It is because Arthur trusts you to look after the castle whilst he is gone. In fact, to also look after me."
Giles puffed out his chest proudly, "Anything for the King and yourself, Your Highness."
She chuckled, "Thank you, Giles. Your service is most valued."
He nodded, "Thank you."
"So there has been no news…" She trailed off, "I do hope they are alright."
"Your Highness, the King is one of the greatest warriors I have ever laid my eyes upon, he will truly be fine. Before long the Knights will be back and we shall be victorious."
"Thank you for your encouraging words." The Queen sighed, "I do hope you are right."
"I have every confidence, Your Highness."
Gwen smiled, "I should be going now, take care."
"And you, Your highness."
With that, Gwen bid farewell and continued aimlessly walking around the castle, quite at a loss of what to do.
~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~
"One day, Gaius. One whole day." Aria threw her hands into the air dramatically, "And not a peep from him! Not even a letter, or I don't know – a patronus! Argh!"
"Patronus?"
"Never mind." Aria waved her hand in front of her, "Harry Potter references are not important right now."
Gaius gave her a confused look, but let her continue ranting. She had only napped for a couple of hours, before storming into his chambers riled up about Merlin's departure. The old man thought it best to let her vent her frustrations aloud.
"I even let him go! Despite not wanting him to – obviously – he could be killed! He's against two powerful sorcerers, and he thinks nothing of it! Does he even have a plan?! I bet he doesn't, I was always the planner – ugh! Maybe I should go after him…"
"Aria." Gaius warned, "You know you must not. Merlin knows what… the risks are. He would never jeopardise you, Arthur or this Kingdom."
"I know that." Aria groaned, "But he didn't even go to see his mother before he left – maybe she could impart some wise words, or- or… I don't know, something!"
"Maybe you should have some more calming draught." Gaius suggested, already gathering the relevant ingredients.
"I am calm; I am the epitome of calm!" Aria hollered before drooping forward and sighing, "Perhaps that is a good idea, thank you, Gaius."
"I too am worried for Merlin. He is like a son to me." He handed her a calming potion which she downed in one.
Aria licked her lips, "I know, I'm sorry."
"Don't apologise." Gaius took the now empty bottle from her, "You miss him and worry for him more than any of us. He will return to you, don't worry."
Aria shivered, despite there being no wind, "Then why do I feel as though I'll never see him again?"
~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~
After drifting around Gaius's chambers like a zombie, she decided to head to bed hoping an early night might abate her now constant headache. As she lay on the bed, her arms sprawled outwards, she heard a bang outside and hurried running heading towards her bedchamber door.
"Aria? Aria! There you are." Gwen bustled into the room, her cheeks rosy from running.
"Gwen? Is everything alright? Has there been news?" Aria scrabbled up from her position on the bed and stumbled clumsily towards her friend.
"No, no, there hasn't. I'm sorry." Gwen look downcast, "Sorry for scaring you like that. I was just wondering if you wanted to take a walk about the village."
"Gwen… it's gone dusk already." Aria's eyebrow raised questioningly.
Gwen sighed, "I know, I just… I feel so cooped up in the castle. I don't know what's happening, if Arthur is alright… I wanted to go and explore the night markets, like old times."
"I know what you mean." Aria glanced at her wardrobe, "Wait a moment."
She went to her wardrobe and began searching through the dresses and garments inside. Gwen watched in fascination, slowly realising what Aria planned to do.
"Ah-hah! These will do." Aria triumphantly held up two plain coloured dresses with few frills, "You're right, let's go."
Gwen beamed at her friend, "This will be just like old times!"
"Yes." Aria laughed, "This is exactly what we need."
Together they changed into the plainer dresses and pulled on dark coloured cloaks. Gwen removed her crown and left it safely in Aria's drawer, before pulling the hood over her hair. Aria did the same, tucking in her blonde locks so they wouldn't be noticed. The pair smiled sadly at one another.
"I can't stop thinking about him." Gwen sniffed, "Now I feel guilty that I am going to sneak outside the castle whilst he is marching his way to battle."
"We should be there." Aria agreed, before sending a pointed look at Gwen.
"We should." Gwen matched Aria's expression, "Let's take a trip to visit Gaius first."
"Agreed." Aria looped her arm through Gwen's and together they snuck through the castle towards Gaius's chambers.
~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~
"I cannot condone you going, Your Majesty. You must know that." Gaius spoke slowly.
"Please, Gaius, call me Gwen." The Queen huffed but not unkindly, "We must go, Gaius. Don't you see? We should be there treating the wounded – we have done it many times before; I don't know why Arthur feels this is any different. And besides, they don't have any competent healers with them, it's imprudent."
"Yes, Gaius. You even said that earlier– Gwen and I need to go, please let us take medicines with us."
"I cannot condone it." Gaius replied, causing Gwen and Aria to slump in defeat, "Unless you take me with you."
"What?!" Aria's head jerked up, "But-but-"
"I will prepare everything we will need. Let us depart shortly." Gaius turned around with an air of finality and began to box up different medicines and bandages.
Gwen nodded, causing Aria to exclaim, "You can't seriously accept this Gwen?"
"Aria, Gaius is the best physician I have ever known. Truthfully I think Arthur was foolish not to take him along in the first place."
Gaius nodded his head in appreciation, whilst Aria stood flabbergasted.
"But-"
"No buts." Gwen replied, "We need Gaius's expertise. My husband is on his way to battle one of the most dangerous sorcerer's this land has ever known. He needs his best healer there."
Aria sighed, "You're right of course." She turned towards Gaius, "Sorry, Gaius. I wasn't doubting you, it's just now everyone I care about will be at the battle."
"But Merlin…" Gwen began.
Aria sent her friend a hard look, "Merlin will be there, Gwen. He has to do something first and trust me he needs to do it."
"I know, I'm sorry." Gwen leant forward and gave her friend a hug, "That came out wrong, I didn't mean anything by it."
"I know." Aria sighed sadly, "I just wish Arthur knew that too."
"He does." Gwen nodded, "But he is stubborn, as you know."
"I know." Aria nodded, turning her attention to Gaius, "Let me help."
She busied herself around his chambers, picking up a variety of herbs and medicines that would help a range of cuts and burns. Gwen too walked around picking up different bandages and strips of cloth that would be useful to slow down blood flow from cuts.
"I think that's everything." Aria exclaimed, wiping her brow.
"Yes." Gaius nodded, "I fear this is all we can carry with us, but the King will have additional supplies at the camp already."
"They already have a day on us." Gwen nodded, "Let us depart now so that we may travel as much ground as possible."
"Ideally we should have a Knight with us to protect us." Aria stood deep in thought, "But I am unsure who we could trust to ask."
Gwen thought for a moment, "I know just the Knight. Follow me."
~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~
I am so tired. My butt is numb, my legs tingle. We have been travelling for hours and there is still no sign of Arthur and the Knights. When will we reach them? I suppose we have a day to catch up on, which makes it pretty difficult. But there is only four of us, not an entire army, so one would think we would be much swifter. I'm glad Sir Giles came with us, I feel a lot safer knowing we have a Knight to protect us. Even though I am sure all our enemies are heading towards Camlann as we speak. Where is Merlin? Is he safe?
Aria sighed, causing Gwen to reach across her horse and grab her arm gently.
"We will be with them soon, Aria."
"I hope so." Aria sighed again, "I hope Merlin is alright."
"Has he gone somewhere particularly dangerous? Gwen asked hesitantly, pulling her hand back so she could steady herself on her horse. Noticing her friend's hesitation, she continued, "I know you cannot tell me, I just hope to know whether he is safe."
Aria considered for a moment, "Thank you, Gwen. He is somewhere that could easily see him killed. But trust me when I tell you he is doing it for Arthur's sole benefit."
"I don't doubt that." Gwen replied instantly, "I hope he is alright also. He is a good and loyal friend."
"He is."
They rode on in silence for a while longer, listening to Gaius and Giles talking quietly as they followed on horseback behind them.
"There is something special about Merlin, isn't there?" Gwen asked suddenly.
When Aria didn't speak, she continued, "I know you can't tell me, but I've always felt it, you know. Arthur is lucky to have him."
"Thank you, Gwen." Aria sniffed, tears pooling in the corners of her eyes, "I want him to be safe, but I have no idea what is happening to him right now."
Aria gripped her bracelet tightly, but it felt cold and not unlike other bracelets. She then reached up to feel her necklace and that too felt cold.
"I can't even feel him this time."
"Feel him?"
"From before, I just knew when he was hurt, I could feel it." Aria looked down at her hands, noticing that her knuckles were white from where she gripped the reigns tightly. Her wedding band glinted in the dim light.
"Merlin has always pulled through." Gwen reassured her, "I know he will be fine."
"I hope so." Aria looked up at the starts twinkling in the sky, her body slowly shifting from left and right as her horse trotted quietly below her, "I hope so."
"Your Highness!" Giles spoke out, snapping the women from their thoughts, "Look ahead, tis Camelot's signal!"
They looked ahead and noticed a flame in the distance, flickering in the wind.
"Are you sure?" Gwen asked.
"Certain, Your Highness – that is one of the safe points along this patrol route. I would know it anywhere." Giles confirmed.
"That's great!" Aria called out, "I can't believe we have caught up with them already."
"We have been riding for nearly seven hours non-stop." Gwen chided whilst smiling, "It is my understanding that the Knights need to rest a lot more frequently, to keep up their energy for battle."
Giles nodded, "Indeed, Your Highness."
"I'm so pleased." Aria looked at the flickering orange flame and wondered what Merlin was doing at that very moment.
~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~
Merlin cursed as he lost his footing for the umpteenth time. His horse whinnied behind him, clearly enjoying watching his master stumble all over the place.
"I haven't even had any ale." Merlin grumbled, "And what are you laughing at?"
The horse whinnied again.
"I've finally lost it. I'm talking to my horse."
His horse huffed in acknowledgment, carefully following after Merlin through the dense undergrowth.
I miss Aria, has it truly only been a day? She is the sun that lights up my world, without her everything seems so… bleak.
Merlin paused at a noise up ahead and signalled for his horse to stop also. Slowly he crept forward, silently treading on the forest floor. Up ahead he noticed a small fox rushing about the undergrowth and he sighed in relief.
"Just a fox." He ran his hand through his hair, "But I should be nearing Morgana now."
Merlin concentrated and focused his magic on sensing Morgana. About a mile ahead he felt an evil spike in the air, his magic clashing against it.
There.
Taking a deep breath, Merlin rubbed his head from the strain of pushing his magic so much.
He looked ahead and threw his magic out even further.
Morgana. Morgana, I know you can hear me. It is I, Emrys. I wish to speak with you. No bloodshed needs to happen; it is me you want. Meet me at the Crystal Cave – alone.
Breathing heavily after the exertion he turned towards his horse, "You need to head back now, boy. I can't take you any further or else you will be injured. Do you understand?"
The horse blinked at him before nodding in understanding. He rubbed his face along Merlin's arm, his tongue flicking out to cover his palm in slobber.
"Er, thanks, boy."
The horse whinnied again and Merlin got the distinct feeling he was being laughed at. Merlin watched as his horse turned around and began casually making his way back to Camelot.
That horse, I swear is more intelligent than half the Knights put together. Though that's not so hard I suppose.
Merlin paused as an unnatural wind built up around him. He flinched when he heard a voice, spiralling around and enveloping him in hatred and contempt.
"Emrys. I shall await you there."
He shuddered, "I need to be prepared. What would Aria do?"
She'd have a plan, Merlin. You don't.
He pictured his beautiful wife's face and smiled, "I'll always love you, Aria. No matter what happens."
Pushing aside the branches in front of him, Merlin carefully made his way towards the Crystal Cave, unsure of what – or who - he would face there.
~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~
"He wishes to meet with me alone. Strange… his voice sounded… familiar to me." Morgana paced the forest floor, "What do you suggest I do?"
"You should go, of course." Mordred replied, "We need to identify who Emrys is, in order to defeat him. It makes sense that you may know him already, I would have thought he is close to the King. Without Emrys, Arthur has no hope of winning. The prophecy has foreseen it."
"How should I defeat him? The prophecy foretold he is the strongest sorcerer ever to live." Her lip curled up in disgust, marring her dark beauty.
Mordred chuckled, "He is but a small obstacle once we team up against him. However, we should not underestimate him. Outright defeat may not be possible, but we can disarm him long enough for destiny to be fulfilled."
"How?" Morgana questioned.
"This." Mordred leant down and opened an old wooden box with a druid symbol on the top. Morgana took a step closer, intrigued by the box which she had not seen before.
Mordred's eyes flashed gold as he laid his hand across the top, the lid opening slowly. He leant his hand in and pulled out an oval shaped stone, which was the colour of the sun. He held it in his hand and smiled, marvelling the object in his hand.
Confused, Morgana looked between the rock and Mordred, "What does it do?"
"Why, Morgana, have you not heard of the stone of Aghrethuy?" He chuckled, causing Morgana's blood to boil silently.
"Clearly not." She bit out.
"This stone will disarm Emrys long enough for us to complete our task and win this war." When the sorceress still looked confused, he continued, "You throw it, Morgana. Throw it at Emrys and it will work."
"Throw it? How will I know if that rock will work?"
"If we were not lacking in time I would show you." Mordred growled, "Throw this at Emrys – he will not expect it, or think it merely a stone. A shield will enclose around him and knock him out for a couple of hours at least."
"That is not much time at all!" Morgana's magic swirled around her, "We need longer than that to find Arthur and kill him."
"No, we do not." Mordred's magic reacted to hers, spiralling above his head, "I will find Arthur and kill him before this night is out."
Morgana backed down, her hackles lowering, "Your plan better work."
"It will." He replied, placing the stone in her hand, "Just aim carefully."
~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~
Aria watched as Giles moved from free to tree towards the smoke signal in the near distance. She marvelled at his apparent nimbleness, whilst ensuring he was carefully concealed amongst the thicket.
I know he needs to check and make absolutely sure it is Camelot's Knights, but I can't take this tension. Please let it be Arthur, please.
After some time, she heard a shout.
"Your Highness!" Giles shouted, coming out into the open, "It is indeed Camelot's Knights!"
Gwaine ran out from the undergrowth at the holler, having been tasked with guard duty, "Giles! You brought the Queen with you?!" He shouted.
Giles flinched, but before he could say any more, Gwen came out of the copse of trees, "I commanded him to bring me, Gwaine."
"Your Highness." Gwaine bowed, knowing how strong-willed she was, he didn't even bother to argue with her.
"Please, take us to Arthur."
"Us?" He echoed.
Gaius stepped out, followed by a sheepish Aria.
"Aria?!" Gwaine's mouth hung open, "Why are you here? It is dangerous! You should be back at the castle."
"We all need to be here, Gwaine." Aria replied, "Gaius, Gwen and I are excellent healers, you know that. Arthur – and the Knights – need us. You will need us."
"But it is not safe." Gwaine responded, at a loss of what to say.
"Please, take us to the King." Gaius asked, "We must speak with him right away."
"Of course." Gwaine looked at the three of them, "But he won't be happy."
~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~
"It is time. I'm sorry, Aria." The figure began chanting quietly, almost unheard.
I'm so sorry.
The figure continued to chant, magic swirling in the air.
~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~
Gwen ran into Arthur's open arms, her relief evident.
"Gwen!" He spoke, surprised, "What are you doing here?" He looked up, "And Gaius, Aria? You should all be back at the castle; it isn't safe here. You must go back immediately."
Gwen pulled away and scowled, "Don't you dare give me that, Arthur. Gaius and Aria are your best healers and I will not leave you to battle alone. I too can help the wounded. I would rather stay with you than be left at the castle waiting for you, not knowing what has happened."
"But-" He paused at Gwen's face, before sighing in defeat, "Please just stay in the healing tent. Promise me?"
"Of course, I can assure you I have no desire to join you on the battle field." Gwen smiled encouragingly at her husband, "Can you show us to the tent? So we can get set up and prepared."
Arthur nodded before turning to Aria, his face hardening slightly, "I suppose you know the errand Merlin has gone to complete?"
"Yes. And you know that he must do this to protect you. To help you."
"He left me, in my time of need." Arthur grumbled loudly, causing a few Knights eating supper nearby to look up in surprise at the sudden noise.
Aria growled, "Don't be so thick headed, Arthur! Merlin would do anything for you, he would only do this to help you."
"You can't talk to me-"
"Yes I can!" Aria interrupted, balling her fists by her side angrily, "After everything he has done for you over the years, do you now doubt him? Do you?"
Arthur's mouth flapped open and closed like a fish, whilst Gwaine tried to suppress a smirk behind him.
Gwen laid a hand on Arthur's arm, "She's right, Arthur. You know Merlin would never leave you unless it was something vitally important."
"Indeed, sire." Gaius added, nodding.
Arthur's shoulders slumped in defeat, "You're right, of course. I'm sorry, Aria. I just wish he was here – he is my closest friend and he has just vanished, right before such an important battle."
"I understand, Arthur." Aria walked up to the King and enveloped him in a hug, "He'll be back and you'll be fine, I promise."
Gwen smiled at the scene and wrapped her arms around them both, "Now have two of my favourite people made up? Yes? Good." She laughed, releasing them both, "Let's go to the healing tent shall we?"
"Yeah." Aria smiled.
Gaius nodded, "We should get prepared, we have a long night ahead of us."
~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~
Gwaine sat on a raised tree stump poking the food in his metal bowl dejectedly. Percival watched his friend curiously, wondering what was causing a varied display of emotions to flit across his face. He looked around the camp and noticed Aria's face lit by firelight nearby.
He sighed, "What is Aria doing here?"
"She came to help the wounded." Gwaine mumbled, "She should be back at the castle, safe."
"I think it is a good thing she is here."
"What?" Gwaine shot his friend a look of confusion, his spoon clanging loudly into his bowl, "You cannot be serious?"
"I am." Percival laid a calming hand on his friend, "She is a fantastic healer and we need her here. She will stay near the healing tent, which is at the back of the ranks, she won't be in any danger."
"How can you know that?" Gwaine growled, "You can't, that's what." He ran his hands through his messy hair, "She needs to head back."
"And have you told her that?"
Gwaine's shoulders slumped forward and he picked up his spoon again, "Of course not directly, she wouldn't listen to reason."
"She's strong willed." Percival corrected, "Look, I know things have been… odd between the two of you in recent months, but you have to pull it together. We are about to go to battle with Morgana and we may not survive the night. You cannot spend the entire battle worried about Aria."
"It's easy for you to say" Gwaine gave up and threw his bowl to the floor, "I can't eat that crap anyway."
"You will regret that in a few hours." Percival chuckled deeply.
Gwaine's focus shifted back to Aria, "I don't know where Merlin is and Aria is here. It's strange, why do you think that is?"
"I have no idea." Percival gazed at Aria, noticing how her hands were moving in a flurry in front of her whilst she spoke to Gwen and Arthur.
"Gaius is here too." Gwaine continued, "Though I suppose that makes sense."
"Yeah." Percival finished the food in his bowl, "Are you sure you won't eat yours? I'll have it if not."
"Sure." Gwaine picked up his food bowl and passed it over.
"Look." Percival began munching on the leftover food, "Don't worry about Aria and just focus on the fight. That's all that matters tonight."
"I'm not sure I can do that."
"You have to." Percival scraped the last bit of food out and ate it, "If you don't, you will die. And I most definitely don't want my best friend to die."
Gwaine tore his eyes away from the woman he loved and stared at the ground, "You're right. Aria isn't stupid, she'll keep out of danger."
"Exactly." Percival smiled, "Trust her to be safe."
Gwaine nodded, but couldn't help but feel a weighty sense of foreboding.
~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~
Geoffrey busied himself in the library as much as he could, tidying books and gathering spare parchment. He heard thunder sound in the distance and shivered, the cold slabs of the floor doing nothing to abate his fear. He had seen Aria and the Queen leave with Gaius earlier and had been tempted to follow, but knew he would be useless in the fight.
I would cause more harm than good. It is better I remain here and prepare for their safe return. All of them.
Lightning flashed and thunder crashed, causing Geoffrey to shiver again.
Aria, please be safe.
He thought about her bumbling husband who had caused much disarray in the library.
Despite the destruction you bring to my solitude, I also wish you safe passage, Merlin.
~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~
Aria sighed as she lined up the medicines neatly in the healing tent.
I wonder how long this neatness will last. Unlikely to last the hour I suppose. I feel as though the battle will start soon – we can see their forces in the distance.
She suppressed a shudder and wrapped her arms around herself.
Where is Merlin? Is he well? Is he alive? No, I know I would have felt something if that happened… Would I? Oh, Aria, stop being an idiot. You're making yourself worry over nothing again. Well, it's not really nothing is it… He's going to meet Morgana.
"Now I'm talking to myself." She muttered, "I'm going mad… again."
Aria stood up and stretched, not realising how cramped her legs had gotten from crouching. Looking down at her dress, she slowly began tearing some of the puffier bits off, so that it was easier to manoeuvre. She grabbed one bit of dress cloth and wrapped it around her hair, so that it swung in a long pony tail down her back.
Merlin, please be safe. Don't do anything stupid.
Suddenly, searing pain shot through her head, causing her to stumble and grab onto a nearby table. Her stomach also began churning, causing her to double over and take a deep breath.
Ouch, they are getting worse and even more frequent. That's six in the last two days alone. And now I feel sick as well. Great, just what I need – a fantastic combo of sickness and headaches.
"Ugh." She rubbed her head.
The pain receding, she stretched again and took a deep breath, hoping that would help. She was just about to sit down again when she felt a warm, burning sensation on her wrist.
No.
"Merlin." She whispered, her bracelet beginning to heat up.
No, no! Merlin!
Aria ran from the tent as fast as she could, shouting Gaius's name.
~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~
Merlin waited patiently in the cave, knowing Morgana could arrive any moment. He leant against a broken wooden cart that had been discarded, his arms crossed and his finger tapping lightly against his elbow.
Whatever the cost, I must stop her. I cannot let her win. I will have to kill her.
Blonde hair and green eyes invaded his mind and he thought longingly about his wife.
I miss her terribly already. This is different to the patrols I've gone on before. This time feels different. Please be safe, Aria. I will be with you soon my love.
Merlin's thoughts were disrupted by a bang to the side of him.
"You?!" Morgana roared, her voice vibrating around the cave.
"Yes, me." Merlin sighed, "Morgana, I will stop you."
"No, no, it can't be you." Morgana took a step closer, her hand tightening around the stone in her cape pocket, "This must be a trick." She looked about, trying to spot another figure lurking in the shadows.
"I assure you, this is not a trick." Merlin stood up straight, pushing off from the wooden cart, "Morgana, I won't let you attack Arthur at Camlann. Withdraw your forces, send them back."
He readied his magic, intent to lash out at her, knocking her down, when he heard her speak again. He paused, allowing her to say her last words.
She stared at him, her eyes burning with rage, "After all this time, it was you, Merlin?" She spat out his name.
"Yes." He replied simply.
"When I was suffering, when I need help the most, and you knew. You did nothing." She accused, "You were my nemesis all along."
"Morgana, I only did that to protect-"
"Don't lie to me!" Morgana shouted, throwing the stone from her cape pocket at him in anger.
Merlin automatically held out his arm to deflect the stone, knocking it aside with a curious glance.
What was that? Enough games, I must end this now.
"Morgana, I see there is no getting through to you. I am truly sorry it has to end this way."
"As am I." She seethed, staring intently at the stone to the side of him as if willing it to move.
Merlin heard a strange buzz and looked down, his eyes opening wide in surprise as the stone glowed a bright orange colour. Before he had chance to react, the light enveloped him in a golden haze, knocking him out, his body crumpling to the floor.
Morgana laughed, "You underestimated me, Mer- no, Emrys." She walked towards him and kicked his motionless body hard in the side, "You lied to me all this time. You were supposed to be my friend. But no, I suppose we have long gone past that haven't we?"
She circled him like a vulture, "Here you are, unconscious before Arthur's final battle. I hope when you wake your heart breaks with sadness at the news of his death. I would torture you more now, but… I think this will be torture enough." She laughed evilly, "Well, perhaps I'll bring the cave down on top of you."
Bringing her cape hood up to cover her hair, Morgana headed towards the exit. Before leaving, she turned back to stare at him, "Now it all makes sense, why my curse on Aria didn't… interesting."
With a flick of her wrist, Morgana left, bringing the cave down on top of an unconscious Merlin.
~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~
"I have to go, Gaius. I have to find him."
"Aria, you cannot, it is too dangerous."
"I don't care." Aria shook her bracelet, "He's hurt, or worse, Gaius! I have to go."
Gaius sighed, "You cannot go alone."
"I have no choice - no one can know about Merlin's magic."
He sighed and sat on a nearby stool, "I cannot stop you, can I?"
"No." She replied defiantly.
"You should at least explain to Gwen and Arthur that you are going. Otherwise they will only look for you."
"I will." She nodded, before leaning forward and placing a chaste kiss on Gaius's cheek, "Thank you, Gaius."
Aria bolted from the tent and scattered her gaze amongst the sea of red capes, eagerly trying to find Gwen. Finally noticing her next to Arthur, she ran over at full speed.
"Gwen." She huffed heavily, resting her hand on her friend's arm and bending over, trying to catch her breath.
"Aria? Are you alright?" Gwen asked, concerned.
"Yes, well no. It's Merlin."
Arthur immediately snapped to attention, "Is he alright?"
"I'm not sure, I don't think so." Aria stood up straight, "I have to go to him."
"Aria, you cannot go alone." Gwen began, whilst Arthur shook his head.
Arthur laid a comforting hand on Gwen's arm, "I will go to him."
"I must be the one to go." Aria motioned towards the Knights, "Arthur, you must stay here and lead them to battle, without you they will not have the motivation and courage to do so. And Gwen." She turned towards her friend, "You need to help Gaius with healing. Trust me, I know where Merlin is and besides, I am destined to help him."
"Destined?" Shaking her head in confusion, Gwen continued, "What do you mean, Aria?"
Sighing, she replied, "Please trust me, Gwen. I don't have time to explain everything now. But I promise, when I come back, I will tell you everything."
"Please be safe, Aria." Arthur spoke, "Tell Merlin I need him back here, and to look after himself." He turned towards his wife, "She will be fine, she will have Merlin with her."
"I will." Aria nodded in reply, before turning to Gwen, "Gwen, you're my best friend – like a sister. I love you dearly. Please be careful here and look after yourself."
"I love you too, Aria. Please be careful, I want to see you back soon." Gwen sniffed, pulling her friend into a hug, "I promised to look after you… You must keep safe, and bring Merlin back with you."
Aria nodded, "I will, don't worry. Goodbye and see you soon."
She solemnly waved off her friends before descending into the thick copse of trees surrounding the camp.
~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~
Hunith walked towards the outer wall of Ealdor and looked up towards the dark, angry sky. She felt uncertainty build up within her and immediately thought of her son and his beautiful wife.
"Hunith!"
She turned towards the voice and smiled warmly, "Hello, Posie."
"You must come in; the weather is turning. There will be a storm soon, mark my words."
"You're right. I'll be there soon." She turned back towards the sky.
Be safe.
~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~0~
Branches whipped her face as she ran through the forest. A thorny branch caught her arm, causing her to curse and pause momentarily. She licked the wound, gabbed what remained of her dress and ripped a small piece of fabric off. Winding it around her hand she deftly tied a knot, covering the cut completely. Wiping her brow in determination, she set off again through the dense woods.
I feel him. He's this way. Oh, Merlin. Please be safe, please, please. I'm going so God damn slowly, damnit! Too many branches. Is there no other way? I don't even know how to call Kilgharrah, I should have asked Merlin if there was a way before… no, I must focus on what I can do now.
"Argh!" Aria stopped again, gripping her forehead tightly, "Not now, not now."
She stumbled through the copse of trees, reaching out to grab whatever she could to stop her falling. Suddenly she felt herself falling, but before she could hit the ground, she felt comforting arms around her. Whipping her head up, she gasped.
"Gaius?"
"I knew something like this might happen." He got out, still out of breath from walking quickly after her, "When you told me of your headaches, I knew you couldn't go to Merlin alone."
"But- but, argh." She closed her eyes shut and took a deep breath, "I don't know what's happening."
"Me neither. It concerns me." He helped her stand up straight, "Are we close to Merlin?"
"Yes, I believe so." Aria held her bracelet close to her necklace, "I feel like his magic is calling me, he's so close by. Gaius – Gaius, I think he's hurt badly." She sniffed, tears dripping down her cheeks.
"Let's go. Together." He pulled her arm around his shoulder and helped her walk, "One step at a time."
"Yes." She gasped, wiping the tears away, "Thank you, Gaius."
"I will always be there for you and Merlin." He replied.
Aria nodded and looked ahead, trying desperately to find the cave.
There!
"Gaius, the cave, it's right there! Merlin is in there!"
Aria pulled away from him, relieved that she was so close to her husband. Suddenly, another spike of pain shot through her head, stronger than anything she had felt before.
She clutched her head in agony and felt a strange hum spreading outwards from her stomach. She held out her hand and noticed a strange glow emanating from her skin. She gasped at the familiar, yet strange feeling and looked at Gaius in panic.
Oh no, NO! How could I not… How could I not see?
"Gaius." She cried, "I- I think… I think I'm going back. No! Please, no!"
YOU CANNOT DO THIS TO ME. Please! Don't take me back!
"Back? To where?" Realisation hit him suddenly, "The future?"
"No!" Tears streamed down her cheeks, "No, Gaius, don't let it take me!"
Please, I can't leave Merlin. This is my LIFE. Please, NO, please! I beg of you. Don't do this.
She cried out, clutching his cloak, "Please, help me!"
Aria fell to her knees, Gaius falling with her, "Aria, my child. Are you definitely going?"
My friends, don't take me away from them again. Gwen, Arthur… What if I go to a different time again? Please, don't leave me alone, let me stay! I'll do anything, ANYTHING.
"Yes, Gaius, I feel – no, I know I am." She cried, "That is what the headaches… how could I have not known."
How could I have been so stupid? They were the same as when I came here… Please let me stay. Please, like before in the forest when I heard the car, let me stay. No! Please, don't take me! I beg of you! Whoever you are, please. Don't toy with my life anymore, I cannot bear it.
"Oh, my child." Tears began pouring down his cheeks, the truth sinking in, "Aria, you have always been like a daughter to me and I love you dearly as my own."
"And I you, Gaius. Like a father." Aria's head suddenly snapped up, her eyes wide, "Merlin. Oh Gods, no. I cannot leave him. Gaius, I cannot leave him – argh!"
She gripped her head tightly, the pain building. Looking towards the cave, she reached out trying to get to her beloved, but she could not move. She could feel Merlin only metres away, but knew he could not hear her.
"No, no – it's just like when I left for Camelot, the pain…" Aria cried out again, "Why? Why, after all this time? How could you do this to me? Merlin..."
Her skin glowed more and she slowly started to rise in the air.
Gaius looked devastated and shouted, "How do I tell him?"
Aria felt the strange magic again in her stomach and sensed a different presence there. She looked down in surprise.
Am I… Am I pregnant? No, but I can't… the sickness… Oh Gods, Merlin. He doesn't know.
"Gaius, please tell Merlin... didn't notice…" Aria lifted up higher, her body emanating a bright light, "Please… Merlin… always… go… Cheltenham… August first… twelve noon… Starbucks… fountain… I'll meet… forever… love…"
The day after I left the future. But, surely he would have found me in the future if this had worked! It won't work… no one can live forever. Please… I beg of you… let me stay.
Gaius strained to hear, Aria's body fading in and out whilst surrounded by light, the volume of her voice rising and falling. Desperately trying to read her lips and understand her frantic hand movements, Gaius reached out to touch her, but was pushed backwards forcefully.
Then in one swift explosion of light, he saw her fall through the earth beneath his feet and vanish. Sadness overwhelmed him, causing him to bend over and rest his head on the damp forest floor. His shoulder bag slipped off his shoulder, its contents spilling out, but he did not care.
After some time, he forced himself to straighten and grabbed a loose bit of parchment from inside his shoulder bag. With a small piece of charcoal, he quickly scribbled down Aria's words, in the hope it meant something to Merlin.
He looked towards the heavens and willed that Aria was safe, wherever –whenever -she was. He also hoped that Merlin would not implode upon hearing the news, and take Camelot – no, the entire land – with him.
A/N I hope you enjoyed this chapter - any thoughts/ feedback; please let me know :) Please review and let me know what you think! This was a difficult chapter to write and we're getting close to the end, eeeee! I'd really love to hear your thoughts on what you think will happen next in a review :) I'd really appreciate it, and it makes my day! 3