Chapter 17:
As previously planned, Arthur held another meeting with everyone to discuss a proposed plan to defeat Morgana. There was no word of the attack happening yet, but they remain vigilant for war can strike at any moment. However, Arthur found it a little difficult to come with a plan individually as he had never set foot in Nemeth. He needed a better understanding of the situation.
"I have thought of some plans of attack, but it may be faulty in the sense that I know nothing of the terrain of your kingdom," Arthur announced. "I understand we're dealing with Morgana, but I'm not exactly sure who else I am dealing with."
"I can help with that," Rodor attested. "I'm afraid that many of my council, lords, and knights would be in support of dethroning me."
"May I ask why?" Gwaine asked, having been to Nemeth on his travels. "In all honesty, your majesty, Nemeth has always been a favorite travel spot of mine. Always very welcoming and you are known throughout the villages of being a benevolent king."
"I thank you for kind words, Sir Gwaine," he nodded. "but my council isn't quite in favor of my rule because," he sighed as he looked to King Arthur. "honestly they have lost faith in my capabilities since our war with Camelot."
"Over the land of Gedref disputes?" Arthur asked.
Rodor shook his head. "No, our war over magic," he answered truthfully. "I understand the sentiments of magic in Camelot, but I do not believe it is as corrupting a force as your father claimed it to be. Of course, no disrespect to him. I don't know his experience with magic, but I know that it isn't as evil as he pans it out to be."
Merlin looked to Arthur's expression, holding his breath. The King of Camelot wore a neutral expression as he heard Rodor's words.
"In my experience, I have seen firsthand how magic can be used as a force for good," Arthur responded. "but many times I have seen it be a force for evil."
"I don't believe magic in itself is a force of evil," Rodor said. "I believe the way magic is used is based on the heart and intentions of the user who wields it."
"What do you mean?" Gwen asked.
"Well," he took a deep breath. "I have known a few individuals who had the gift all of their lives, ever since the day they were born," he was given a few raised eyebrows as some of the people looked a little shocked to hear such a concept. They had never heard of that before. "not all of them turned out evil because their hearts were never evil."
Rodor looked down, remembering why he fought so hard against Camelot all those years ago. His wife was born with the gift, and it hurt him to think of his late wife wishing he didn't fail. Wishing he had fought harder so that he wouldn't have had to implement the law that made her keep the secret, that made her people a target because of the ignorance of one man.
Mithian and Elizabeth put one hand on each of their father's shoulders, knowing what he wanted to talk to the king about. Even Merlin and Hunith's eyes looked to the floor in sadness as they remembered the loss of their Queen.
"My mother," Mithian continued for her father, seeing he was unable to speak anymore. "she was born with the gift."
The people in the room remained quiet as they took in their words, Arthur being the most surprised to hear the revelation. He knew that the Queen of Nemeth died many years ago, and he's heard nothing but great things about the woman. How she was kind and fair to all of her people.
"I'm sorry for your loss," Arthur spoke slowly. "no matter how much time has passed, losing a loved one is never easy."
"We understand that Nemeth and Camelot have been at odds for many years," Mithian said. "but growing up, we simply found it hard to understand why your father was so against magic. You must understand why my father fought so hard against your laws. Our mother never hurt anyone, yet she would be persecuted for being born with the gift."
Arthur, Gwen, and Camelot born knights remained in a stunned silence. For all their lives, they were taught that magic corrupted those who wielded the gift, but they were hearing that there were some people who are born with such powers. That there were people who lost their lives for the sole reason of being born special.
"Sire, if I may speak," Leon spoke up and Arthur nodded at him to continue. "a few years back, I was on patrol on the border of Essetir when Cenred's men attacked us. I thought that my life had come to its end, but I woke up to find that the Druids had found and healed me. Your father had me hunt them down many times during his rule, yet they still healed me despite everything."
Gwen took Arthur's hand, seeing how he weighed in all of their words. "My father was once healed by magic when an afanc was poisoning the water system in Camelot," she told them. "but when he unknowingly worked with a sorcerer, he was sentenced to death for allegedly being associated with a sorcerer. I do not believe or blame magic for my loss as I have seen it be a force for good, but I do believe that the law has caused many innocents to die. Both magic and non-magic people alike."
"A lot of my people, mainly my council, have begun sharing the same sentiments as many others from all the lands, and have expressed their opposition to the war between our kingdoms over the law," Rodor spoke again. "but I did not listen because I knew there were many, like my wife, who could not speak against it for fear of persecution so I continued the war despite the protest. They lost faith in my ability to rule and I am sorry for the many that lost their lives, but I can not regret fighting for the freedoms of the people who were affected by such a law."
Elizabeth remembered reading about some of the actions her father took in the law, and was quick to remind and defend her father. "We eventually did withdraw from the war because my father told his knights that if they did not wish to participate in the war no longer, they were allowed to leave," she said. "It greatly reduced our numbers, but there were still many who continued to fight because they also were against the law."
Arthur remained neutral as the conversation went on, hearing all the sides and his close friends and acquaintances encounters with magic. He let himself weigh in on all of the arguments, and thought to himself all of the times where magic has both saved him and put him in peril.
"I hear all of your words," Arthur announced. "I don't share the same sentiments as my father, and I can understand how much of a toll the law has made on people. I've always thought about how true my father's beliefs were on magic, but my experience," he paused. The people in the room who were aware of Merlin's secret sucked in a deep breath, fearing the king's next words. "my experience has led me to believe, as you put it, that the way magic is used depends on the heart of the person. I do not blame you for keeping Queen Elaine's gift a secret."
"Hearing everything I've heard today, I've also had a change in heart," Gwen agreed. "magic can be used as a force for good, as well as evil, but it is not the gift itself. It is the heart of the person who wields such a gift."
"When the war is over, and we finish the fight against this faction and Morgana," Arthur pronounced. "I will begin the talks to lift the ban on magic, for I can see clearly that it is not truly a force for evil. I plan to begin making up for the grief my father has caused, and hopefully," he paused, a pained look in his eye. "my sister will come home."
"Thank you," King Rodor looked up to Arthur proudly. He knew his father for many years, and he can see clearly that he is not him. He is sees reason and truth, and he proves to do what is right and just. "I understand how difficult hearing all of this may be. I'm sure you've raised your whole life to believe magic to be evil in nature and I appreciate all you are doing," he told Arthur. "I only wish my wife were still here to see this day."
"No, thank you," Arthur said. "I only wish to better myself as king. I understood the flaws in my father's rule, and I thank you for giving me a new perspective of a law that drove my father almost mad. It's always been a debated subject for me, and I appreciate you telling me your take on it."
"What if Morgana still doesn't back down from trying to take the throne?" Percival asked curiously.
"Then we know that Morgana's actions were for her own personal reasons," Arthur answered. "we'll know that she only wants the throne for herself, and not for her people. It'll only prove that magic use depends on the person, not the gift itself."
Merlin stood by a pillar in the throne room, trying to keep himself composed. Listening to the conversation, and all the words from both Arthur, Gwen, and the knights has made his breath catch in his throat. He found it difficult swallowing as he tried hard not to let his tears fall from his eyes. He's waited so long for the day that he and his people stop being hunted and persecuted for something that was out of their control. He's waited so long for the day where he no longer has to hide who is.
Mithian focused on Merlin as Arthur announced his plans to revoke the ban on magic, inevitably allowing magic to be used freely among the people of the land. She smiled proudly, tears welling in her eyes as she saw Merlin struggling to keep at ease. They eventually locked eyes, a small smile adorning their faces as they realize he no longer had to keep his secret. Some of his fears greatly reduced at hearing Arthur's words.
"If I talk to Morgana about my plans for banning magic, I hope that she will see reason and end her alliance with the man leading the coup," Arthur said, redirecting their attention to the civil war. "King Rodor, do you know how many of your people are still loyal to you?"
The old man looked unsure. He knew there were a few who wish to overthrow him, but he wasn't completely sure exactly who. Thinking about it made him uneasy as he didn't know who to completely trust.
"We aren't sure," Mithian answered for her father, knowing how much the news has been affecting him. "It truly pains me to admit, but many of our noble families have taken a great liking to Sir Brennis and his father. He's one of our best ranked knights and he comes from a very affluent family. His father holds a highly respectable reputation amongst the noble families of Nemeth. However, I know that there are a lot of people still loyal to my father's rule. I know, for a fact, that not everyone agrees with their sentiments."
Arthur turned to look at his servant, remembering his past ties. "Merlin," he called. "you've been awfully quiet. Do you know anything about this man?"
Merlin took a deep breath, swallowing as he composed himself. "Yes, I've trained alongside him a few times," he answered, his breath a little shaky but otherwise neutral. "there were a lot of knights who would follow him without question. Many of them being the more wealthy and known nobles of Nemeth, but there are also many who were not fond of him given how he speaks negatively about the king."
"So there are knights that are still loyal to King Rodor," Gwaine surmised.
"Yes," Merlin looked to the old king with a reassuring smile. "I wasn't a knight for long, but I was able to make friends with a few of the men who did not care about my background. I'm sure their sentiment hasn't changed in the years I was gone as I know many of them wouldn't hesitate to lay down their life for you, Sire." Rodor took a bit of comfort in that, but it didn't fully extinguish the guilt as he feels he's failed his people.
"When Odin's men attacked, many of our people have hidden in a part of the forest to escape his assaults," Mithian noted. "Perhaps those people are still there, and are loyal to my father."
"I'm sure the men Merlin speaks of would most likely be imprisoned should the war begin," Elizabeth added. "we'd have to free them."
Arthur began formulating a plan in his head as he heard all of the information as it was being told in front of him.
"What were Merlin's duties as knight were?" Guinevere asked. Merlin looked to Gwen curiously, wondering where she was going with that question.
"More often than not, he was a guard and escort for my daughter," Rodor answered. "Merlin was a knight during a time of peace, but he's held his own many times. I awarded him a knighthood for his bravery. He's saved my life at least three times." Which was true, but Rodor also did it so that he'd be a more suitable suitor for his daughter.
"He was sent to the frontlines as a medic. Whenever my father's life was in danger, Merlin often risked his own to save him," Mithian informed them.
"I asked out of curiosity," Gwen replied. "perhaps, it would bring comfort to the knights imprisoned to see a familiar face. Merlin could lead a group to free them."
"Merlin?" Arthur blinked at the idea. He values his wife's opinion, but her thought surprised him.
"I think that's brilliant," Gwaine supported.
"I'm not a leader," Merlin argued. "I can join the group, but I probably wouldn't be able to lead them."
"I respectfully disagree," Gwaine said with a smile. "you grew up in the walls of the palace. You know the place better than any one of us. Those knights probably don't know who to trust at this point, and it would greatly benefit them to see a friend."
"Merlin?" Arthur asked once more, and Gwen pinched his arm causing him to wince lightly. "Ow, Gwen-"
"I agree with Gwaine," Gwen pronounced. "I'm sure the knights might have trouble knowing who to trust, and a friendly face would be just the thing to ease any apprehension."
Arthur sat up in thought, registering what Gwen and Gwaine are suggesting. Gwaine made some irrefutable points, and the king sighed. "Then so be it," he declared. "Gwaine, you'll be in Merlin's group to rescue the imprisoned knights. First, we will search through the area of the woods where the rest of your people might be," he nodded to King Rodor and Mithian. "then we will take back your kingdom."
Before anyone had a chance to talk once more, a guard had interrupted their meeting. Apparently another man had come from Nemeth with urgent news for the king.
"William!" Merlin said in surprise, not having seen his old friend in a while. His initial excitement for seeing his friend dwindled as he noticed how disheveled his friend looked.
"Sire," he weakly bowed to King Rodor. "I have a message from Sir Brennis and the Lady Morgana," he announced gravely.
King Rodor stood up at the sudden intrusion, one of his worst fears coming to pass. "What happened?"
"Sir Brennis and his men attacked the palace," William announced. "they have many of our men held captive in the dungeons, and Brennis is assuming the throne." The people in the room collectively looked down, having been discussing the plans all night.
"Morgana knows of Emrys and his true identity," he continued. "and she wishes he face her."
Merlin and Mithian's heads turned to face each other, the color draining from their faces as their worst fear has come true. They had barely recovered from Morgana's last attack days ago and she's taken over their home once again. Now, it seems as though she is no longer afraid of Emrys. Merlin no longer has the safety of secrecy.
"Emrys?" Arthur asked, eyebrows furrowed in confusion. "Who is this man?"
"She is waiting for him to meet her at the Land of Gedref. That is all she wanted me to tell," William answered. "she will kill those loyal to King Rodor's crown if Emrys does not come forward."
"Well, tell her we've never even heard of this man she speaks of," Arthur stood up, outwardly angry as his sister was murdering innocent men.
"Sire," Merlin began to speak, but Rodor cut him off.
"Emrys is a prophecy," Rodor told everyone. "my wife used to tell me stories about how he is one of the most powerful warlocks this land will ever know. He is destined to bring back magic to the kingdoms, and help the Once and Future King bring about an era of peace."
"A prophecy?" Arthur asked. "Has my sister gone mad? How do we even know if he's real?"
"The tale of Emrys and the Once and Future King is well known amongst the Druids," Percival informed his king. "he's very real, they felt his presence."
"Many years ago, my wife and I met a young boy who possessed such remarkable magic," Rodor said. "Elaine believed the boy to have a great destiny. She told me he would be one of the greatest warlocks to walk the earth."
"Do you think this boy could have been Emrys?" Arthur asked. "How do we know for sure he's on our side?"
"Arthur," Merlin called out, his heart pounding in his chest. It was far too soon, he wasn't ready. His lip quivered, and his legs remained heavily still from where he stood. He couldn't force himself to move as he tried to make sense of what was happening. He felt all eyes on him, and he suddenly forgot how to speak.
"You alright, mate?" Gwaine asked, placing his hand on his shoulder to steady him.
Merlin nodded, patting the knights hand to assure him he was fine. He stood up straight, knowing there was never going to be a right moment. It was time he faced his fears as the situation calls for it, and told everyone the truth.
"It's me, Arthur," he told everyone quietly. "I'm the boy," he revealed more clearly. "I'm Emrys."
AN: oh snap magic reveal Thank you for taking the time to read this :) Hope you liked it and as always I appreciate all the reads, follows, favorites, and reviews it always means a lot to me so thank you so much!