Chapter Nine

–

The Gates of Avalon

—

These violent delights have
violent ends.

–

Morgana could feel heavy beads of sweat pouring down her face, stinging her eyes. She felt so incredibly lost, as if she was battling a thickening fog. Her throat was dry, painfully scratchy as she cried out for help. She was in a bed that was not her own, crudely made with hay and burlap, the only offering of comfort beneath her exposed skin. She fought to stand up, to escape but a pair of hands gripped each of her wrists to hold her firmly in place. Tears fell from her eyes, hot and biting at her cheeks.

"Please," she begged to the faceless demons, "you don't have to do this."

There were hurried voices all around her but all sounded muffled and unrecognizable. Her chest rose and fell with great haste. The hands that gripped her wrists tightened their hold as she fought harder, more hands latched on to her thrashing legs. Her hair was soaked with sweat, sticking to her neck like tree sap just after the autumn harvest. A gentle female hand pushed her hair away from her face and placed a cloth doused in cool water on her forehead. She saw a carved and painted House crest on the wall, two screaming griffins with a green banner. It was the blurry sigal of Garlot, King Nentres.

"Arthur!" she wept, so desperately that her chest quaked. "Send for Arthur! Please! I want Arthur!"

Her head was swimming, drowning in blackness. She was going to die, she had never been more sure of anything. She couldn't feel the Everstone around her neck, magic would not save her. Perhaps they had found her out and this was her punishment. This would be her demise and no one, not even Arthur Pendragon could save her now.

–

"Sire, sire," said Merlin in a hushed tone, gently gripping Arthur's shoulder to wake him. The prince had not left Morgana's bedside for the entirety of her three days of unconsciousness. She had taken an apparent rough blow to the head that rendered her in her current state according to Gaius who had cleaned and stitched the gash along her skull. Uther had paced the floors until the candles burned dim, torn down his curtains in a fit of rage, and had to be persuaded by Gaius nearly a dozen times before finally agreeing to take a sleeping draught to ease his nerves.

Arthur took what few meals he could swallow in Morgana's chambers and had remained determined to stay by her side until she woke up, if she woke up. Merlin shook Arthur's shoulder once more to wake him and finally he stirred. Arthur had pulled a chair beside Morgana's bedside and had fallen asleep holding her hand between his, his head resting just beside them. His eyes blinked several times to focus, dark circles lingered under his blue eyes. He released her hand for a moment and rubbed his face and ran his fingers through his hair. His eyes looked upon Morgana again, almost hoping for a moment that he had been awoken with good news.

"What is it, Merlin?" he asked, moving his undoubtedly sore neck from side-to-side.

"Cook made you your favorite dessert," said Merlin, smiling weakly. "Plums stewed in sugar glaze."

"I'm not hungry," said Arthur, returning his attention to Morgana.

"Sire, you've barely eaten in days," he went on. "You'll make yourself ill carrying on like this."

"I'll eat when Morgana wakes," he replied.

Merlin was just as distressed over Morgana's condition as Arthur. He had sat outside of her chambers all night, hoping for a sliver of good news from Arthur or Gaius. Gwen had been reassigned to the kitchens with Morgana in her unconscious condition and had been beside herself being away from her ailing friend. All Merlin wanted was a moment alone with Morgana, a moment where he could possibly use magic to heal her, but Arthur's insistence to never leave her side was making his efforts impossible. He could hardly blame the prince. Arthur loved Morgana, they had grown up together and the thought of losing someone so close to family was unimaginable.

"I will not leave her side until you return," said Merlin, his voice full of sincerity. "Wash up and put something in your stomach. You'll feel much better when you return, even if you're only away for a few moments."

"I don't think—"

"I already set out a clean pair of clothes on your bed," said Merlin, helping Arthur to his feet. "Cook is bringing up a dish of plums now."

Merlin led Arthur to the door in case the prince changed his mind. Arthur paused in the doorway and turned to Merlin with a kind expression, "Thank you, Merlin, I don't know what I would do if anything happened to her."

The young warlock sent the prince a feeble grin and shut the door behind him. Merlin listened for Arthur's footsteps to disappear before slowly approaching the bed of the king's ward. She looked like a shell of her former self, skin nearly translucent. Her eyes seemed sunken in, encompassed in dark circles, body covered in bruises. Her breaths were steady, but she made no movements. Merlin cautiously sat upon Morgana's bedside, taking her hand in his — it felt cold as ice. As soon as he touched her, the stone she wore around her neck began to glow ever so slightly — the Everstone. Merlin remembered the healing powers Gaius had told him the stone attained. He gently picked the stone up from Morgana's chest and held it in his hand, feeling the immense energy pulsate through him. He slowly took the stone and placed it against the back of Morgana's head, whispering an incantation that seemed to seep into his consciousness, "cneasaigh di."

Merlin's eyes glowed gold as a deep gasp escaped Morgana's lips. He dropped the Everstone and stepped back from her bedside, hoping he hadn't done more harm than good. Merlin began to bite his thumb, a nervous habit from his youth. He noticed that Morgana's bruise had begun to fade and her eyelids flickered. After a moment more her eyes opened, wide and frightened, this fiercely whispered, "Arthur!"

"He'll be right back, milady," said Merlin, in a desperate voice. "He will only be gone a moment. Please try to rest."

Morgana was disoriented still, feeling the phantom grips around her wrists from before. Her chest rose and fell with vigor, her green eyes wild as they searched the room for Arthur. She tried to sit up a bit too quickly causing Merlin to position himself beside her once more.

He motioned to help hold her steady and potentially force her to lie back down, but before he realized what was happening, Morgana had wrapped her arms around Merlin's neck in a snug embrace. He was too shocked to return her hug at first but finally found the courage to wrap his arms around her back. Morgana buried her chin into Merlin's neck and he did the same to hers. It was truly a toss-up to whom was more relieved to see the other. After a long while, Morgana pulled away and sloppily wiped away the streams of tears from her eyes. She felt the back of her head, pulling back her hand as if expecting to see blood again.

"How long was I asleep?" she asked, her voice raspy.

"Just over three days, it's after midnight now," said Merlin, standing to pour her a cup of water to soothe her throat. "How do you feel?"

"A bit dizzy," she said, nodding her appreciation as she sipped a bit of water. "I had the strangest dream...a nightmare..."

"Everyone has been so worried about you," he said, "Uther has been pacing the halls at all hours, and I just convinced Prince Arthur to finally eat something. He hasn't left your side for even a moment."

There was a long, uncomfortable silence as Morgana stared at her cup of water. Merlin knew there was something more on Morgana's mind, but he knew it was not his place to inquire further. She seemed to be somewhere else entirely. Merlin hovered over her bedside, tilting his head to the side and sending her a reassuring smile, "My lady?"

Morgana blinked a few times and shook her head clear, placing her cup of water on her bedside table before looking up at Merlin once more, "Yes, I am so sorry, Merlin. I am still trying to get my bearings. Would you please send for Arthur—"

The door unlatched and opened. Arthur had changed his clothing but looked no more rested than before. He had completely shut the door behind him before he could fully comprehend the miraculous sight before him. His jaw dropped slightly and his coy yet goofy grin appeared, "Morgana."

Morgana smiled with incredible relief when she saw him, welcoming him into her arms. Arthur hurried forward, engulfing her into an enormous bear hug. He held her face in his hands when he pulled away, kissing her forehead. His heart was racing, he couldn't imagine ever letting her out of his sight again. Merlin took an awkward step backwards.

"Your name was the first word from her mouth, my lord," said Merlin, begrudgingly.

Arthur felt a familiar warmth in his chest.

"Merlin, go and tell Gaius that Morgana has awoken," said Arthur, pushing Morgana's hair behind her ear. "I'll wake my father with the good news soon."

"Yes, sire," said Merlin.

"No, wait," said Morgana suddenly, "please give us a bit of time alone before retrieving Gaius."

"Of course, milady," nodded Merlin solemnly, escaping into the hall with the immediate intent of eavesdropping before retrieving Gaius.

Morgana held her palm against Arthur's cheek, brushing her thumb affectionately along his chin. The pair closed their eyes and leaned forward so their foreheads touched against one another. They remained still in a comfortable silence for a long while, almost long enough to convince Merlin it was worthwhile to abandon his post outside the door.

"We were so worried," said Arthur finally.

After her nightmare, Morgana had never been happier to see Arthur in the flesh. She had called out to him in her dream, and she could not completely understand why. She held his face in her palm again, and Arthur could not resist kissing the indentation between her thumb and index finger as if he had just found his breath again.

"I had this horrible dream," she said quietly before she could help herself. "I was trapped in this dark room...I remember calling out for you. It felt so real, as if I had lived it."

"I stayed by your side just until you woke up. I'll always be by your side," said Arthur, pulling her into his arms again. "What happened that night?"

"I drank too much wine," she lied. "I went up to where we used to play in the north tower when we were children. I just needed air. I must have hit my head somehow. I don't remember much else."

"I saw you, Morgana," said Arthur slowly, pulling back to look into her eyes. "You drank one glass of wine. You were perfectly fine until I pulled you away to speak in private. It was as if I said something that upset you. Did I do something—"

"Arthur," she interrupted, placing her palm lovingly on his cheek again. "You did nothing wrong. You did not upset me. I promise you."

"I just do not understand," he insisted. "You haven't been yourself lately. I have noticed. You have barely touched your plate at meals. You sleep even less than you usually do. Sometimes you seem as if you're either near the edge of tears or on the verge of screaming—"

"I know," she said, lowering her head.

"Whatever it is," he said, holding her hands in his, "we'll figure it out together. You can tell me."

"Arthur, what if you found out I wasn't who you thought I was?" she asked, squeezing his fingers. "What if I was a monster?"

"I would be quite impressed with your disguise," he smirked. "You hide your scales so well and your tail is hardly noticeable—"

"Be serious," she frowned. "What if one day, you realize I am something you have been taught to fear?"

"Enough, Morgana, what are you going on about?"

"Nothing," she sighed. "I am just being foolish."

"Look at me," said Arthur, holding her face in his hands as more tears began to fall from her emerald eyes. "There is absolutely nothing you could say, do, or be that would change how I feel about you — nothing. I've known you all my life, and I know what truly lies in your heart. I don't know what has been making you so upset, but rest assured that I'll be by your side, always. I promise you."

Morgana suddenly leaned forward and kissed him. Arthur didn't expect this, but he could hardly complain. He held her face in his hands as he slowly and passionately kissed her back.

When Morgana finally pulled away it was only to catch her breath, "I wish that were true."

–

Uther and Gaius had been overwhelmed with emotion to see Morgana awake. She told them the same lie that she had told Arthur only they were much more inclined to believe her without hesitation. Uther lightly reprimanded her for being so foolish, but he was too happy to have her back to be too terribly upset with her actions.

Arthur wouldn't be able to sleep without Morgana beside him, hearing her subtle breaths and feeling her chest rise and fall in tandem. He needed to know she was safe now, that she had truly returned to him. He snuck back into her chambers in his sleeping garments not long after his father and Gaius had left Morgana's chambers for the evening. He didn't speak when he quietly unlatched her door and locked it behind him, nor when he crawled into bed beside her and engulfed her in his arms. She rolled over silently and nuzzled her forehead under his chin. Arthur knew she was safe in his arms, and Morgana knew she would never be safe again.

The sun crept in early, too early. Morgana woke first, her long eyelashes fluttering as she winced from the sun's light in her eyes. She yawned and looked up at Arthur's relaxed, peaceful expression.

"You'll be late to court," said Morgana, ruffling his already unkempt blonde hair with her fingers. "You don't want to keep them waiting."

"They can wait on me for once," said Arthur, adjusting his position to place his palm gently against Morgana's cheek. "How are you feeling?"

"A bit tired," she said, resting her hand on his side, "but I feel back to my old self."

"Back to your old self so soon?" Arthur teased. "How unfortunate."

Morgana puffed an indignant giggle and swatted his bare chest. Arthur laughed and pulled her on top of him. She pushed herself up to straddle his waist, feeling his already stiff morning manhood grow larger beneath her. She smiled coyly and leaned over to kiss him, making sure to grind her body against his pelvis.

Arthur moaned, took her hands in his and forced her gently back to sitting on top of him, "Morgana, you've only just—"

"I appreciate your concern," she said, sliding her hand down the front of Arthur's trousers, "but I can assure you I am not as delicate as you think I am."

Arthur moaned louder as she wrapped her fingers around his member and slowly led him inside her. Arthur sat up suddenly, gripping the side of her face with his open palm before pushing her over onto her back. He rested his forehead against hers as he thrust deeper into her, his billowing trousers hanging down to his knees. He buried his face into her neck, biting her collar bone. Morgana took his face in her hands and brought his lips down to hers, teasing his bottom lip with her teeth.

"My Lady?" called a voice. It was Gwen, knocking outside the door. "Your door is locked. Are you alright?"

Arthur snorted a laugh that Morgana muffled with her open palm, quiet enough to escape any listening ears. Arthur collapsed atop Morgana, placing kisses along her jawline and down her neck. She ran her fingers through her hair, catching her breath.

"I am fine, Gwen," called Morgana over her shoulder. Arthur slowly began his thrusts again. "I'm rather tired. I want to rest for a while longer. Would you mind terribly if I stayed in bed until the afternoon?"

"Of course not, milady," said Gwen. "I'll let you rest."

Morgana clawed involuntarily at the sheets beneath Arthur, mouthing his name as if to chastise him. He pulled Morgana's nightgown over her head and tossed it to the ground. He gripped her hair in his hand and quickened his pace. Their breaths grew shallow and visceral. Their bodies moved in tandem, both aching for the same release.

"Arthur," she breathed into his ear, raspy and uncontrolled. Her hands moved to the back of Arthur's head, gripping his hair between her fingers. He whispered a mixture of sweet nothings and foul, filthy lustful desires. Morgana dragged her lower lip along his jawline, swallowing his whispers when their lips met again.

"Morgana?"called a new voice. "I've come to check on you."

Arthur chuckled lightly at the second interruption and broke their kiss, gasping as he pressed his forehead against hers, "I am quite alright, Gaius. I am just resting."

"Very well," he said. "I'll return later today."

"Thank you, Gaius," said Morgana, barely able to speak as she reached her climax.

"And Morgana," Gaius started in a telling tone. "Merlin has been looking for Arthur all morning to no avail. The guards recall your chambers were the last place he was seen. You wouldn't happen to know where he is, would you?"

Arthur bit his lip to hide his laugh while Morgana groaned, "I haven't the slightest idea."

"How odd," said Gaius in obvious disbelief as his voice faded with his steps. "He must be around somewhere."

Finally, Morgana threw her head back on her pillow, arching her back and climaxed just as Arthur did. He shuddered and collapsed on top of her before rolling over beside Morgana, both gasping for air with amused grins on their faces. Morgana ran her fingers through her raven hair and looked over at the flaxen haired prince, "I can't recall the last time we've done that."

Arthur chuckled lightly before turning his head to meet her gaze, "I think quite a few years."

"We've always been rather good at it," said Morgana, smiling. "I don't remember why we stopped."

Arthur sighed heavily and rolled onto his back again, "Because you were different when you returned from Garlot those years ago."

"Garlot? King Nentres region?"

"Yes…" said Arthur slowly as if he was certain Morgana was teasing him. "When we were probably fourteen. Garlot needed all the help they could get healing their wounded after the war by the sea. Father sent you to assist Gaius on behalf of Camelot. You must have been gone the better half of the year."

"Yes, that's right," said Morgana, furrowing her brows as she recalled the crest from her dream. "It's funny. I can remember leaving and returning, but nothing in between."

"Well, I never heard from you while you were away — not one letter and no replies to mine," he said solemnly. "The day you returned, I was so relieved and happy to have you back. However, you returned colder. You seemed shell shocked and almost like the feelings we once shared had never existed."

Morgana's head felt fuzzy. She turned over and placed her hand on the side of Arthur's face. He looked over at her.

"It was real, what we had was real," said Morgana. "Something happened to me there. Maybe if I can figure out what then I can understand a lot of things."

"What do you mean?" asked Arthur with concern in his voice. "Were you hurt?"

"I don't know," she said. "There must be a reason that time of my life has been erased. I don't have an explanation."

"King Nentres answered my father's call to arms," said Arthur. "He and his house will join the others in congress in Camelot just next month. Perhaps you will find your answers there."

"Perhaps you're right," she said. "I imagine Gaius would have been honest with me by now if he wanted to, so I will garner little information from him."

"Is there anything I can do?"

"Arthur, you asked me what has been bothering me lately," she said, her thumb brushing his cheek. "You want me to be honest. The truth is that there are things about myself I never knew until recently, things that frighten me. I need to figure things out my own way."

—

"You're fortunate a bump on the head is all you are left with after the state Merlin and Arthur found you," said Gaius, smiling as he patted Morgana's hand.

Morgana felt much better later in the day, long after Arthur had left and Gaius had returned to check on her condition. He sat on her bedside and examined her head for any bumps or bruises he may have missed. He was pleased to see she seemed quite well, though not surprised as she wore a shard of the Everstone around her neck.

"Yes, I am thankful Arthur and Merlin found me," she replied. "I don't remember much else about that night."

"A bump on the head will do that," said Gaius wisely, "and so will too much wine. Do you feel rested? I know you were struggling with sleep more than usual before your fall, so I hope the rest did you some good if nothing else."

"Yes, I did desperately need the sleep," said Morgana, nodding as she gnawed on her next words, "but I was having an odd nightmare just before I woke."

"I'll make you a draught for this evening if you like to soothe your mind," said Gaius.

"No, I hope I have it again," she replied. "I think this may not have been a dream at all. I think it may have been a memory."

"A memory?"

"Yes," she said slowly. "Gaius, I believe I dreamt I was in Garlot. The only time I have ever been there was when I was little more than a child. Do you remember?"

Gaius looked as if he hadn't exhaled since Morgana had mentioned 'Garlot.' It seemed as if he was fighting every urge to panic. Finally, he released his breath and replied with a quiet, "yes."

"I can remember leaving Camelot," she said, "and I can remember returning but my memories in between are gone. I can't explain how odd it feels, and it wasn't until I had this dream that I even realized a part of my memory had just vanished."

"Our memories from our youth fades naturally as we age, Morgana," said Gaius. "It is not uncommon for you not to recall every detail of your childhood."

"You make it sound as if I've forgotten the name of my first horse," said Morgana. "I lost half a year of time. Uther sent you to help King Nentres' physician treat the wounded Garlot soldiers, and he suggested I would be a great help and show of goodwill in their time of need."

"He did and you were," said Gaius.

"What happened in Garlot?"

"We healed the wounded," said Gaius, "and we returned to Camelot when the fighting was done."

"Something bad happened to me while I was there, didn't it?" she said, narrowing her gaze. "I will find out what it was with or without your help."

"Morgana, you had a nightmare," said Gaius. "Do not start chasing your monsters in the daylight."

—

Morgana had always loved the gardens that decorated the castle's courtyard. She and Arthur had played many games of hide-and-seek within the countless blooming bushes, flowers, and between the hanging vine-like branches of the large ancient weeping willow tree. They would hide from their lessons beneath the willow and successfully escape a number of Gaius's lectures until Arthur fell from the thickest branch and broke his arm. They left their first initials carved into the trunk.

She would disappear along the woven stone path between the blossoms after a summer rain, when her nightmares kept her awake and the morning brought more dread. She would let her toes soak in the fresh puddles and walk until her nightgown train was too heavy with moisture to carry any longer. It was quiet there in a comfortable way, the silence didn't echo against stone. There was a softness, a familiarness that always felt like a warm blanket.

Morgana waded through the thick overhanging branches of the old weeping willow and disappeared as the greenery closed behind her. The sunlight still bled through and danced on her cheeks as she approached the trunk. A faint smile graced her lips as her eyes fell upon the childhood carving. She reached her hand out to touch the two letters, her fingertips hovering over the carved memory when she heard a voice, "Emrys."

It was the whisper of the dragon. She would never forget his voice. Every hair on her body stood on end as her body froze. A moment passed before she heard his voice again, "Find Emrys and uncover the answers you seek. Find the warlock. Find Emrys."

"How would I find a warlock in Camelot?" she whispered fiercely, unsure if the dragon's magic could hear her. She heard no reply until a sudden rustling in the branches almost knocked her over with fright. "Merlin?"

Merlin had tangled himself up in the vine-like branches of the weeping willow, looking clumsier than ever as he struggled to free himself. He was out of breath by the time he made his way beneath the umbrella of the tree before Morgana with a bouquet of flowers in his hands.

"I didn't mean to startle you, milady," said Merlin, bowling his head in embarrassment. "I apologize. Prince Arthur asked me to bring you these and invite you to dine with him tomorrow evening. He also wanted me to express to you that he would have delivered the flowers to you himself, but his king father has him meeting most of the evening."

Morgana took the flowers in her arms and smiled softly, shaking the dragon's call loose from her head, "Thank you, Merlin. You may tell him that I accept his invitation. I expect we will see less and less of Prince Arthur as the royal congregation grows nearer."

"He did insist I join him on a morning hunt tomorrow," said Merlin, his jaw clenched, "so he has made time to kill something."

"I imagine he is forcing you to carry his kill and arrows?" she smirked.

"Do I not strike you as a skilled hunter?"

"You seem much more of a gatherer," she teased. "I think no man could pick more berries or harvest more vegetables, but I cannot see you as much of a killer. You have simply too big of a heart, a rare birth defect."

"Yes, my ears suffer from the same affliction," he laughed. A comfortable silence fell between them, and he filled the void with thoughtful concern. "How are you feeling, my lady?"

"Much improved, thank you, Merlin," said Morgana. "I've been meaning to speak with you in private."

"Oh?"

"I owe you an apology and my gratitude. I have been behaving quite out of the ordinary, especially lately," she said sincerely. "You have been incredibly kind to me regardless, and I am so grateful to have you in Camelot. It is rare to find friends you can trust within the castle, and I am lucky to have found that in you."

"You flatter me," said Merlin. "Your benevolence has been a great comfort to me since I arrived in Camelot. I cherish our friendship, my lady."

"Merlin, please call me by my name," she replied, "at the very least when we're alone. We are friends after all."

"Morgana," he said and the word tasted like sweet wine on his lips.

—

Uther had cleared the throne room and concluded council after Gaius interrupted their discussions of Hengist and Horsa. The king had been both confused and angry that his court physician had disrupted their meeting until he heard the words Gaius whispered into his ear, inaudible to any surrounding council members. Arthur had attempted to stay behind, but his father insisted it was a private issue unrelated to their current matters at hand. His son used the early dismissal as an excuse to visit Morgana in her chambers and check on her condition. A few court members hovered in small groups in the long corridor outside the throne room at a distance, hoping to eavesdrop a faint echo between the king and his court physician.

"How is that possible?" asked Uther fiercely, attempting to keep his voice low and away from wandering ears.

"I do not know, sire," said Gaius, quietly.

"But you're certain?" he hissed, looking over his shoulder and down the corridor with a cold glare before returning his attention onto Gaius. "You're certain it was Garlot that she mentioned?"

"Yes," he whispered. "She's starting to remember."

"You promised me that could never happen," said Uther, his face reddening. "Do you realize the consequences that will be unleashed if she—"

"Of course I do," said Gaius, louder than he intended, "more than anyone. I fear the repercussions if Arthur were to find out the truth of Morgana's pilgrimage, especially as the spark of their bond appears to have reignited as of late."

"I noticed their heightened affinities at the tournament," said Uther, chewing the inside of his cheek, "but you know how protective they are of one another. Morgana cannot even stomach a meal when she knows Arthur is competing. You believe it's more than that?"

"Yes," said Gaius astutely. "Something so scandalous as Arthur and Morgana outwardly expressing their affections towards one another has spread throughout the kingdom like wildfire."

"The upcoming caucus could not come at a worse time," said Uther, massaging the bridge of his nose as he closed his eyes. "Camelot may be in need of allies now more than ever before, and there is no better way to broker an alliance than by marriage. They are too old not to realize their value to the kingdom."

"I advise not broaching the subject with either of them," said Gaius. "This is a very delicate matter and forcing them apart instead of allowing them to choose their own destiny did obviously not prove successful in the past."

"I'll handle the matter in a manner I see fit," said Uther, waving his hand flippantly. "My main concern beyond the threat of Nimueh's return is that Morgana's memory does not return. Camelot's future hangs in the balance."

"Would King Nentres or Queen—"

"No," said Uther with certainty. "They have just as much to lose by revealing the truth as you or I. What happened to Morgana died in Garlot. You made sure of that, Gaius."

Gaius swallowed hard.

—

Arthur slunk through the woods with his crossbow like an apex predator. He had spent so much time in council with his father over the last week that his appreciation for freedom grew to be uncontested. The air smelled of fresh morning rain and the sunshine felt like it filled his skin with new life. He was already in good spirits when he spotted a wandering buck in the distance. He planted his feet, and pulled back his bowstring to aim. Merlin abruptly burst out of the trees and bumped into Arthur just as he was about to release his arrow.

"What is it?" asked Merlin, out of breath from sprinting to keep up.

"You really are a total buffoon, aren't you, Merlin?"

"I was just asking," he shrugged, spotting the buck darting away in the distance.

"Who? Me or the deer?! We're supposed to be hunting," said Arthur, huffing. "It requires speed, stealth and an agile mind."

"So you're able to get by on two out of three, then?" said Merlin, smirking. He paused as a woman's desperate shriek interrupted them. "What was that?"

"Quiet," said Arthur, laying his extended index finger to his lips.

In the distance, they heard the voice of an older man calling for help, "Please! Don't!"

Arthur instinctively grabbed his sword from Merlin and sprinted down the hill towards the screams without hesitation. Merlin darted after him, his long legs still struggling to keep pace with the athletic king. They skidded to a halt before A man lying on the ground as a bandit drew his sword to kill him. A young woman with long strawberry blonde hair struggled with three other thieves.

"No, no, I beg you! Mercy!"

"Give us some money," said one of the thieves.

"Help me! Help me!" the young woman yelled.

Arthur holstered his sword and sling his crossbow forward over his shoulder. He fired an arrow through the chest of one of the robbers. The others immediately drew their swords and turned their attention onto Arthur. The man climbed to his feet and held the young woman in his arms while Arthur fought off the bandits with his sword.

Merlin knew Arthur was outnumbered even with his immense skill and strength. He spotted a large tree branch hovering above the head of the largest bandit, made certain no attention was upon himself and breathed the words of the Old Religions, "Forbearnan firgenholt."

The branch fell and crushed the bandit, leaving one bandit fighting Arthur as the final thief took off running in fear. Arthur swung a fatal blow to the chest of the last bandit, leaving him high on adrenaline as he caught his breath. He paused for a moment and looked up curiously at the tree.

"Stroke of luck," he said, almost suspiciously.

"And let that be a lesson to you!" shouted Merlin, waving his fist at the thief now penniless and sprinting into the trees.

"Merlin, for pity's sake," said Arthur, rolling his eyes.

"What? I was covering your back," he replied in an exasperated tone. "When Gwen and Morgana hear about this, I'm telling them I helped."

"Helped?" said Arthur, turning his back to the couple he had rescued for a moment due to utter indignation at Merlin's suggestion. "You just stood there while I did all the fighting."

"Would you have preferred I assisted you by displaying my swordsmanship?"

"Of course not," Arthur scoffed. "You would have just gotten in the way."

"Precisely, I helped," he teased. "You're welcome."

Arthur narrowed his gaze onto Merlin while the young warlock remained unfazed and grinning, "I'll tell them you were brave enough not to run away."

"You know the willingness to compromise is very kingly of you," said Merlin, smiling wider. "I think you should try it more often—"

"Ahem?" a purposeful cough from the young woman interrupted the two men. They paused their conversation and turned their necks in tandem to shift the attention onto the rescued pair they had obviously forgotten about.

"Apologies for our manners. I am Arthur Pendragon, and this is my manservant, Merlin," said Arthur shaking his head and walking towards them with his hand extended. "Are you both alright? Did they hurt you?"

"No... my father and I are alive all thanks to you," said the woman, extending her hand for Arthur to kiss. He obliged. "I'm Sophia."

Merlin could only see Arthur's face, Sophia's back towards him. His expression was indifferent but warm to both Sophia and her father when he greeted them, but the warlock noticed something change in Arthur as he looked into Sophia's almond brown eyes. His jaw slacked slightly and his eye glazed over for a moment, if Merlin hadn't been watching their exchange then he wouldn't have noticed. It only lasted a moment, an almost mental haze or invisible fog that fell over the prince. Suddenly, Arthur stood up taller and gaped upon Sophia with a different expression. He looked at her with the same subtle lust and adoration that Merlin had only seen him dote upon one other person — Morgana.

—

"My name is Aulfric, heir to Tír-Mòr," said the older man. "This is my daughter, Sophia."

"You're a long way from home," said Uther from his throne. "What brings you to Camelot?"

"Our home was sacked by raiders, Your Grace," said Aulfric. "We barely escaped with what few possessions we could carry."

Gwen snaked into the back of the small crowd gathered in the large throne room. She gently nudged Merlin with her elbow, and he sent her a kind smile. Arthur stood beside his father, leaning against the side of Morgana's empty chair to the left of the king. He seemed blatantly unable to take his eyes from Sophia. Merlin leaned down slightly to Gwen and whispered from the corner of his mouth, "Where's Morgana?"

"Gaius insisted she rest until dinner and wouldn't take 'no' for an answer," she replied quietly, staring curiously at Arthur just as Merlin had been. "He thinks she has been overexerting herself since her fall. What's going on? Arthur looks like he's lost his head."

Merlin and Gwen spotted Gaius leaning against a stone pillar near the front of the room, furthest from them.

"Arthur and I came across those two in the woods on the hunt late this morning," said Merlin in a whisper. "Aulfric and his daughter Sophia of Tír-Mòr. They were being robbed by a group of bandits. Arthur fought most of them off… but I helped."

Gwen smirked and looked up at him out of the corner of her eye with a telling expression.

"These are dangerous times," said the King. "What will you do?"

"We travel west to Caerleon where we have family and, I hope, a new life," said Aulfric.

"You must stay here awhile, break your journey," said Uther, and an audible sigh of relief echoed through the hall from Arthur. "A noble family like yours is always welcome in Camelot."

"Thank you for your kindness and hospitality, your grace," said Sophia, her eyes purposely locked onto Arthur's.

Arthur's eyes did not leave Sophia when she exited the throne room with her father. She peered back at him over her shoulder. Merlin and Gwen exchanged confused looks.

"I've seen Arthur do... whatever it is he does with ladies over the years," said Gwen, still keeping her voice low as she and Merlin followed the crowd out of the throne room. "I have never seen him like this. What on earth has him so infatuated?"

"I don't know," said Merlin, leading Gwen into an empty alcove to give them more privacy. "He nearly forgot she was there after the thieves were gone, but as soon as he looked into her eyes — it was as if he was suddenly possessed by his love for her."

"It doesn't make sense," said Gwen, her arms crossed over chest as her eyes darted around for wandering ears. "Arthur and Morgana have been positively besotted with each other. His sudden change of heart is almost unnatural."

"Almost like he's bewitched," said Merlin slowly, furrowing his brows.

"You don't think—"

"Merlin?" interrupted Arthur in an irritated voice. "There you are. Come with me. I have some chores for you to do before supper."

"Yes, sire," said Merlin, bowing his head and following after Arthur after sending Gwen an apologetic smile.

Gwen narrowed her eyes and took a step out of the alcove, "Prince Arthur, what would you like me to have Cook make for your supper? You are still joining Lady Morgana as you promised her, are you not?"

Arthur froze but did not turn around to face the pretty young handmaiden. He knew what she was playing at and he would not engage in her little game, "Send my regrets to your lady, Gwen. I have more pressing matters to attend to."

—

"You are certainly generous to welcome two strangers into Camelot without hesitation," said Gaius, his hands laced behind his back as he approached Uther in the now empty throne room.

"Didn't you see how obviously taken Arthur is with the girl?" said Uther with an impish grin. "I'll keep her around as long as possible if it dims Arthur's affections for Morgana."

—

"Make sure you put her in a decent room," said Arthur. "The one next door's fine. Excellent, in fact…"

"Perhaps a room in the north tower would be better suited," said Merlin with apprehension in his voice. "I don't know how Morgana would feel if she knew…"

Arthur looked at Merlin for a long time as if he was conducting an inner debate within his skull, "I don't know what you mean."

"Well, you care for her, don't you?" asked Merlin. "I don't mean to be so bold, sire, but it is no secret that you and Morgana have been spending more time alone together. You know better than anyone how the court likes to gossip."

"It must have pained you greatly to hear that," said Arthur in a cold, unfamiliar tone.

"Sire?"

"I know you think me daft, Merlin, but I see the way you look at her when you assume no one is watching," said Arthur with a wicked, condescending grin. "You care for her."

"Sire, you are mistaken," said Merlin, furrowing his brows. "Lady Morgana is my friend, one of the best I have in Camelot — nothing more."

"You would do well to remind yourself of your station more often, Merlin," said Arthur. "My father would have your head if he were to find out what truly lied in your heart, so I advise you to keep your thoughts and opinions to yourself. Go now and prepare Sophia's room like I asked."

—

The water was a sickening yellow color, thick and stagnant but the depth was undeniable by the blackness of the bottom. Morgana was floating comfortably beneath the surface. Her white shift dress danced in the water above her feet and her long black hair drifted gracefully above her head. It was quite tranquil, really.

She suddenly felt a presence behind her and kicked her legs and bent her elbows to twist her body around beneath the water. Morgana's eyes widened, immediately reaching out to the figure slowly descending before her. It was Arthur in his heavy chainmail armor, unconscious and sinking to the bottom of the lake. Morgana swam to position herself behind him, bending her arms under his shoulders in attempts to carry them both to the safety. The armor made it impossible to reach the surface.

Morgana looked up at the light that seemed just out of reach but so terribly far away. There was a young woman wearing a velvet yellow cloak, slowly waving her open palm above the water. She had strawberry blond hair, pale skin, and almond eyes. Morgana memorized her face. She watched with wicked glee as Arthur drowned and Morgana could do nothing to stop it. Her grip suddenly slipped from her grasp and his body disappeared into the darkness below.

"Arthur!" gasped Morgana, sitting up abruptly from her slumber.

—

"If you need anything, just let me know," said Merlin, handing Sophia a blanket and bowing.

"Thank you, Merlin," she said, turning to disappear into her guest room beside Arthur's chambers.

Morgana was mid stride, on her way to see Arthur in his chambers when she spotted her. Sophia caught Morgana's eye and sent her a menacing smile. Morgana's lips parted but no words escaped. Merlin saw Morgana's anxious expression and approached her with concern.

"Merlin, who is that?"

"Sophia Tír-Mòr," said Merlin, studying the worried look on Morgana's face. "We rescued her in the woods. Well, Arthur did most of the rescuing though I did help."

"She can't stay here, Merlin," said Morgana in a chilling tone.

"The King said that she and her father are welcome in Camelot," said Merlin, his gaze narrowing. "Everything alright?"

"No, I had another nightmare," she replied quietly. "I saw her face in my dream. She was hovering over Arthur as he drowned. She just stood there and watched him die. I need to speak with him. Is he in his room?"

"Er— now may not be the best time," said Merlin, rubbing the back of his neck. "You're certain it was her?"

"It was her, and Gwen already told me he canceled supper with me," said Morgana. "I don't care about that—"

"It's not just that," said Merlin. "He's in a rather peculiar mood."

"What do you mean?"

"He just isn't behaving like himself," said Merlin nervously. "He's acting more prat-ly than usual."

"Why?"

"I don't know, really," he replied. "He's been out of sorts since we arrived back at the castle."

"With that woman?"

"Yes," said Merlin. "He seems predisposed to saying some rather cruel things."

"Gwen mentioned he was curt to her this afternoon, and I will have a word with him about that," said Morgana, but she tilted her head to the side and looked up at Merlin with genuine care. "What did he say to you?"

Merlin opened his mouth for a moment but swallowed his first words and released a painful whisper through a weak reassuring smile, "Nothing true."

—

"I told Gwen to tell you I had pressing matters to attend to," said Arthur, "Did you think that an invitation to barge into my chambers unannounced in a fit of hysterics?"

"I will offer you some advice, Arthur, never accuse a woman of being hysterical unless you want to see a woman truly hysterical," she seethed. "Gwen did pass along your message, and she also informed me of your rudeness to her this afternoon as well."

Arthur sat adjusting his boots at the foot of his bed, not bothering to look up at Morgana who was standing over him with her arms crossed over her chest. The sun had just set and the glow from the candles dimly lit the room.

"That is an exaggeration," said Arthur, a half smile crawling across his lips. "She spoke out of turn, and I merely replied in a stern tone. Merlin was there, ask him."

"I saw Merlin just now, and he attempted to talk me out of even entering your room," said Morgana. "He made it sound as if anyone in your presence was at risk of your verbal wrath. Unless, that is, you're named Sophia. You should be weary of that one. She isn't as she seems."

Arthur released a hollow laugh, "You're jealous, Morgana."

"Don't flatter yourself," she snapped.

"Come now," he said, reaching out and gripping her wrist to unfold her arms. He stood up now that his boots were situated and placed Morgana's arms around his neck. He wrapped his arms around her small waist and pulled her against him. "Admit you're a little jealous."

"You're intolerable," she breathed, looking deep into his eyes.

Arthur buried his mouth into the nook of her neck, sensually kissing her skin just below her ear. Morgana released a quiet involuntary moan. He moved his lips onto her and kissed her passionately. She returned his kiss but pulled away and held his face in her hands. His expression seemed distant and unfamiliar, like she was with a stranger.

"Arthur, what's happened to you?" she whispered, eyes dancing desperately. "Something is wrong."

He scowled and unlatched her fingers from behind his neck, "Don't you ever tire of your incessant paranoia? Nightmares, dreams, feelings — it's exhausting. Let me guess — this woman you have never met is the newest threat to Camelot."

"To you, you idiot," she spat. "Did you hit your head? You are acting like a mad man. I'm trying to protect you.

Arthur sent her the nastiest glare he could muster and motioned towards the door, "I've heard enough."

"Where are you doing?" she shouted.

"I promised Sophia I would give her a tour of the gardens this evening," he said, gripping the door handle.

"What pressing matters you must attend to indeed," said Morgana, tears burning her eyes though she refused to allow them to fall. "Just hope I'm wrong about her."

—

"I'm taking Sophia out for a ride today," said Arthur, shoveling a final bite of his breakfast into his mouth. "You know, show her around."

Merlin had been silently tidying Arthur's chambers, his back to the prince as he made his bed. He remained quiet unless spoken to, choosing to avoid anothing tongue lashing courtesy of Arthur. Merlin paused, trying to decide how he should respond.

"Sire, you are supposed to be on patrol with your father's guard this morning," said Merlin slowly.

"Which is why I need you to cover for me," he replied.

"What, and lie to the King?" said Merlin, turning to look at Arthur with wide eyes. "No, he'll see right through me."

"I promised Sophia I'd take her out and if I don't turn up it'll blow my chances," said Arthur, "I need you to do this."

Merlin pushed his dark shaggy hair from his eyes, "Sire, I crossed paths with Gwen in the kitchens this morning."

"Spit it out then," said Arthur. "It's obvious you have something you want to say."

"She told me that Morgana was very upset last night," he said. "Maybe riding with Sophia isn't the best idea."

"I can't order you to lie to the King," he replied, "but I am going regardless of what my father or Morgana thinks — or you for that matter."

—

Morgana gripped the Everstone tightly in her hand as she watched Arthur ride out of Camelot with Sophia through her window. Her stomach ached with concern. Something wasn't right, and she could feel it deep in her bones. Merlin had come to inform Gwen and Morgana of Arthur's continued bizarre behavior after he departed with Sophia.

"You're sure it's her?" asked Gwen.

"I could never forget that face," said Morgana, dropping the necklace between her bosom so it was hidden beneath the fabric of her blue gown.

"Will you speak to the King?" asked Gwen.

"And tell him what?" she sighed. "That I can see the future?"

"If you think Arthur's life is in danger," said Gwen. "You're his ward, he wouldn't harm you."

"He hates magic more than he cares for me," said Morgana, watching Arthur and Sophia grow smaller and disappear into the distance. "But I will do anything to protect Arthur even if I must put my own life in jeopardy."

"We won't let it come to that," Merlin insisted. "We're just going to have to stop her ourselves."

"I hope not," said Morgana, biting her lower lip. "We have to find out for certain if he's been enchanted. If he has indeed been bewitched then we have to find out what sort of magic they used on him and figure out how to break the spell."

"What can we do?" asked Gwen.

"Let me manage Sophia," said Morgana, her jaw tightening. "I'll find out if she used magic on Arthur."

"I'll see if I can snoop around Aulfric's room for anything suspicious that could help us," said Merlin. "He always has this ornate staff with him. I'd like to take a closer look."

"Some of the other servants have whispered about a couple books about magic and creatures alike that survived Uther's purge in the restricted section of the library," said Gwen, rubbing her chin. "They're said to be concealed by covers of books by different titles. I'll sneak in and find them."

—

Arthur and Sophia walked arm-in-arm through the woods. Arthur had never felt this way before. He thought he loved Morgana, for a long time in fact, but this feeling was different — it was all encompassing. His mind was mush in the very best way. He had nearly tripped over his own feet and caused Sophia to tumble too, but he caught them both before a disaster.

"Wai…wait! Careful."

"Don't worry. I will be," said Sophia, taking Arthur's hand in hers and looking deep into his eyes. "Túce hwón frec 'úre, artur."

"What are you doing?"

"Our love is strong. You feel the same way, too," said Sophia, and Arthur's eyes glowed red as his expression changed. "If we were ever to be parted...?"

"I'd never let that happen," said Arthur in a monotone voice.

"You must seek permission for us to marry... so that we can be together."

"Till death do us part," said Arthur, his eyes glowing red again.

—

Merlin peeked around the corner to see if any wandering eyes were near but spotted none walking toward Aulfric's bedchambers. He checked once again if anyone was around and before entering. The chamber was mostly bare, any items decorating the room belonged to the kingdom. Merlin spotted Aulfric's unique-looking staff leaning against the unlit fireplace.

It was lighter than it looked, a hollow core of maple crudely carved to hold an ornate blue gem at the handle. Merlin noticed there was very peculiar writing chiseled near the gem. He picked up the staff and leaned in close to attempt to make out and memorize the letters.

"Abas ocus bithe. Duthectad bithlane," said Merlin, reading the script aloud in a soft whisper.

"Can I help you?"

"Forgive me, sir," said Merlin, startled by Aulfric's silent return. "The door was open. I was worried someone may have broken in."

"Looks like they have," said Aulfric, his eyes flashing red.

"I apologise for imposing on you, sir," said Merlin, attempting to remain expressionless. "It won't happen again."

—

Sophia smiled to herself as she entered the castle. The prince's heart belonged to her and soon his life would be hers as well. She was so lost in her own glee that she walked directly into Morgana rounding a corner.

"Sorry!" said Sophia in a high pitched voice. Her tone changed when she saw who she had crossed paths with. A sly smile slithered across her lips. "Lady Morgana, isn't it? I'm Sophia."

"I know who you are," said Morgana, narrowing her eyes to slits. "What I don't know is what you're doing here."

"My father and I are guests of the King," she said, tilting her chin upwards.

"Oh, is that all?" said Morgana in a condescending voice. "I know what you're planning to do to Arthur, and I won't let it happen."

"Does Arthur know you feel this way about him?" said Sophia, flashing her wicked grin. Morgana released a single cough-laugh and crossed her arms over her chest, looking away. "Of course he does. I suspect he's already turned you down. Jealousy is such an unattractive trait in a woman."

Morgana smiled and leaned in close to hiss a sinister whisper into her ear, "You know nothing about my relationship with Arthur. Do not think you can make a fool out of me."

"I won't have to," said Sophia. "You're managing to do that well enough already."

Sophia turned on her heel to walk away but Morgana reached forward and snatched a handful of her golden hair and dragged her against the stone wall. Sophia clutched onto Morgana's hand that gripped her hair and tried to release herself. Instead, Morgana pushed her against the stone wall, Sophia's hands holding onto her hair in pain. She scowled up at the king's ward.

"Do you know who I am?" she asked.

"What?" Sophia grimaced.

"Who am I?"

"Lady Morgana of Tintagel, Duchess of Cornwall," said Sophia, groaning as Morgana tugged harder on her hair.

"Oh, you do remember," she said with venom on her tongue. "Your tone had me nearly convinced you had forgotten who you were speaking to. You know my name and my title, but what you don't know is that if anything happens to Arthur, I'll find you — however long it takes."

Morgana didn't realize that her eyes flashed gold when she narrowed her threatening gaze. Sophia's eyes widened in shock and slightly in fear. Morgana gripped Sophia's chin between her thumb and index finger, and she felt the warmth of the Everstone between her bosom. Sophia was a witch just as she had suspected and Arthur had most certainly been enchanted.

Sophia's jaw dropped and could not formulate a reply, "I-I—"

"Stay away from him," said Morgana, violently releasing Sophia and walking away. She looked back at her over her shoulder, enjoying the sight of Sophia's rubbing her chin with a stunned expression.

—

"I nearly choked to death on the dust that covered these," said Gwen, removing the two forbidden books she had borrowed from the library. She peeled off the purposely mismatched covers to see the true titles underneath — "Creatures of the Old Religion" and "Charms & Conjurations." The books appeared ancient as Gwen lifted them onto Morgana's writing desk.

Merlin lifted "Creatures of the Old Religion" into his arms and moved to the windowsill to read the faded words in the sunlight. He flipped through the pages, scanning through the script until he found what he was looking for, "Aha! Ogham."

"Ogham?" said Morgana and Gwen in sync.

"It's the language carved into Aulfric's staff," said Merlin. "It's an old language, but I knew I recognized it before. The staff read 'to hold life and death in your hands.' The book says it's a Sidhe song. A couple small tribes still spoke Ogham near Ealdor, but it says here that it is the native tongue of the Sidhe."

"Who are the Sidhe?" asked Gwen.

"More of a what than a who it seems," said Merlin, reading quickly. Gwen and Morgana came to hover over his shoulder. "They're fairies, masters of enchantment."

"When I imagine fairies, I certainly don't picture Sophia or Aulfric," said Morgana.

"It says here that were a Sidhe to kill one of their own kind that they would be sentenced to a mortal life and death as well as their kin," said Merlin, his finger scanning the text.

"Well, that certainly explains the lack of wings," said Gwen.

"Oh no," said Merlin.

"Oh no, what?" asked Morgana.

"This is not good," he went on, not looking up from the book.

"Merlin," the girls warned.

"Sorry, right," he said, reading the last sentence. "The book says that the only way for a Sidhe to reclaim their true immortal form is to sacrifice the life of a prince."

"Oh no," said Morgana, her stomach dropping.

"This is not good," said Gwen.

"That's what I said," said Merlin, rubbing the back of his head.

A knock on the door interrupted them. Merlin and Gwen quickly threw the two books back into the potato sack and hid them under Morgana's bed. She straightened her skirt and tried to compose herself before unlocking her latch and cracking open her door. It was Sir Leon. He bowed his head, "Lady Morgana, Prince Arthur requested an audience before the king. King Uther is asking you to be in attendance. May I escort you?"

"Yes, of course," said Morgana hastily slithering out the door and closing it behind her to hide her friends.

—

Morgana apprehensively took her seat to the left of Uther who was reading documents and paying little attention to his son standing before him stoically. Aulfric and Sophia stood behind him, Sophia's eyes rested on Morgana who sent her a threatening glare.

"I request this audience, Father, to discuss a matter of great importance," said Arthur as Merlin and Gwen drifted in the back of the crowd. "It cannot have escaped your attention that I and Lady Sophia Tír-Mòr have grown very close."

"Not too close, I hope," said Uther, not looking up from his papers.

"We're in love," said Arthur and Morgana felt a hot blade slice through her chest. "Which is why I come before you today to ask your permission to marry."

"I assume you're joking," said Uther, finally looking up from his scribbling. "You met two days ago."

"No, we are in love," said Arthur. "I'm going to marry her."

"In love? We had no idea that you were such a romantic had we, Morgana?"

Morgana ignored Uther's jest and took to her feet while the entire court stood in stunned silence. She walked forward but the prince did not move a muscle not even when Morgana delicately placed her palm on his cheek, "Arthur, please. You don't mean this."

"I'm going to marry her," said Arthur, harshly pushing Morgana's hand from his skin. "I don't care what either of you think about it."

"I thought you'd come to ask my permission?"

"Out of courtesy, nothing more," said Arthur, taking Sophia's hand in his and turning towards the doorway.

"Guards, door," said Uther, taking to his feet as the guards barred the pair from leaving.

"You've forgotten whose court you're standing in," said Uther.

"You won't stop me," said Arthur. "If I want to marry her, I will."

Uther nodded to his guards, "Arrest Sophia and Aulfric Tír-Mòr and inform the executioner his services will be required tomorrow morning."

"You can't do this!" Arthur exclaimed.

Yes! I can!" Uther shouted, stepping forward and standing beside Morgana. "And unless you show me some respect — I will!"

"Arthur—" Morgana started.

Arthur reluctantly bowed his head to his father.

"Release them. You've got your whole life ahead of you," said Uther in a much more gentle tone. "Sophia is a new love but won't be your only one. Enjoy yourself while you can."

Merlin, Gwen, and Morgana exchanged worried glances. Arthur's life was in danger and time was running out.

—

Morgana followed Uther out into the corridor, gently leading him alone into the corner to speak within, away from any eavesdroppers. Her face was tense and fretful.

"You're not planning on springing any surprises on me, are you?"

"Don't you think you should be taking this a bit more seriously?"

"Give it a week and he'll be chasing after the next girl that catches his eye," said Uther purposefully.

"You insult me," said Morgana.

"I don't know what you mean," he lied.

"You are indulging this new infatuation because you hate the idea of Arthur and I together more than anything else," she hissed.

"I will not tell you I approve of any feelings either of you have for one another," said Uther, "but I have no control over Arthur's affections. If he truly loves this girl then that has nothing to do with me."

"She is dangerous," said Morgana. "She's manipulating him. You've seen the way Arthur changed since she's arrived."

"Why do you say that?"

"I just have a feeling," said Morgana, the urge to scream her vision at the tip of her tongue.

"And what has she done to make you have this feeling?"

"Nothing, yet," said Morgana. "It's what she's going to do…I don't know how to tell you this."

"Whatever it is, you can tell me."

"I don't know if that's true," she whispered.

"I know you want to protect him, but some lessons we have to learn for ourselves," said Uther, placing a kind hand on her shoulder. "Sophia will be forgotten."

"I hope for Arthur's sake that you're right," said Morgana.

"Are you sure there's nothing else behind this?"

Morgana noticed Gwen and Merlin at the end of the corridor, anxiously waiting for her return. Her eyes locked with Merlin's, "Yes, it's nothing."

—

"There must be something in here that can tell how to break the spell Sophia placed on Arthur," said Morgana, sitting on her bed and holding a candle above the spell book while she flipped desperately through the pages.

Gwen leaned against the windowsill keeping watch for any movement in the square. It became much more difficult to see as the night poured in around them. Merlin propped his head up on his hands, leaning over Morgana's writing desk and soaking up as much information as he possibly could in order to save Arthur's life.

"I think the only way to reverse the enchantment is to remove the Sidhe from their mortal form," said Merlin, dragging his finger along the page of the book.

"You mean kill them?" said Gwen in a horrified voice.

"There has to be another way," said Merlin, scratching his head. "I just can't seem to figure out what it could be."

"We're out of time," said Gwen anxiously, waving Merlin and Morgana to join her view at the window. "They have Arthur and they're leaving Camelot. Look!"

"We have to stop them before it's too late," said Morgana, slamming her book closed and sliding it under her bed. "I'm going after them."

"I'm coming with you," said Merlin, closing his book and hiding under Morgana's bed.

"Gwen, will you cover for us in case anyone comes looking?" asked Morgana, pulling on her boots. "If we aren't back by sunrise then send the guards."

"Of course," said Gwen, nodding nervously as she watched her friends sprint through the door and close it behind them.

—

Sophia took Arthur's hand and led him into the lake. He was in a trance, a shell of himself. He was a puppet for Sophia now. He would do whatever she asked of him, even give up his own life.

Merlin and Morgana continued running, Morgana's maroon gown shredded and filthy from the mud and coarse terrain. They were both out of breath but determined not to stop until they reached the lake.

Sophia stopped Arthur when the water was waist-height. She took both of his hands in hers as Aulfric started the ceremony from the shore.

Merlin tripped in the woods, and Morgana ceased her steps for just a moment until he stumbled to his feet again. They picked up their pace to make up time. In the distance they could see the lake, Sophia kissing Arthur and then pushing him backwards unconscious into the water.

"No, no," said Morgana, sprinting and ripping her heavy gown over her head as she reached the shore. She kicked off her boots and only her white shift remained. "Arthur!"

Morgana took a deep breath and dove gracefully into the water and disappeared beneath the surface.

"Keep going, father," said Sophia wickedly. "Let them both drown."

"Dómdæg. Déaþ ór cwylþ óga him. An 'wén. Flíete á. Dómdæg. Déaþ ór cwylþ óga him, Arthur Pendragon," Aulfric incanted, waving his hand above the water from the shoreline.

Merlin took the opportunity to pick up Aulfric's discarded staff and point it at him, "Onbregdan." The staff flew into Merlin's hand, and he pointed it at Aulfric. "Swilte, gold beorþ."

A bolt of light hit Aulfric and he disintegrated.

"Father! No! No!" shouted Sophia, attempting to run to where he once stood.

Merlin pointed the staff at her next, "Óga ceoles."

A bolt of light hit Sophia and she suffered the same fate as her father. Merlin quickly threw his jacket off and he ran into the water. He saw Morgana holding Arthur from underneath his shoulders, struggling to hold on as his heavy armor dragged him deeper and deeper. Merlin swam deeper and unbuckled his belt that held his chainmail in place. They lifted it over his head and the pair used the remainder of their strength to carry Arthur to safety. They both gasped for air once they reached the surface but Arthur did not. They swam until they could stand and dragged Arthur's limp body onto the shore. Morgana looked around for Sophia and Aulfric.

"They took off," said Merlin. "I don't think we'll be seeing them again."

"I don't think he's breathing," said Morgana, leaning down so her ear hovered over Arthur's nose and mouth. "He's not breathing!"

Merlin started pressing on his best and Morgana blew air into his mouth, returning to listen for breathing — nothing. Growing desperate, Morgana swallowed hard and removed the Everstone from between her bosom. The stone proved to have healing abilities before. Magic or not, she would do anything to save Arthur's life. She just didn't know how. She gently placed the stone on Arthur's chest while Merlin knelt in silence. As soon as the stone touched Arthur's skin it was as if Morgana's brain switched on, and she knew exactly what she must do. The words found her.

"Anail a-steach gu domhainn," said Morgana, her eyes glowing gold. The Everstone grew brighter than ever before. Morgana felt her entire body overcome with a burst of lightning. Arthur's lips parted and he inhaled a deep, hearty breath of air. His chest rose and fell in a healthy rhythm. Morgana suddenly felt ill, falling over onto her elbows beside Arthur and threw up a significant amount of water onto the earth, coughing until her throat burned. She knew the water had been in Arthur's lungs and she had paid the price to use the stone's healing power on another. Merlin sat on his knees in stunned silence.

Once she had ceased her coughing, Morgana immediately returned her attention to Arthur. She placed her ear on his chest to listen in overwhelming relief to the steady rhythm of his heart. Like a crashing tidal wave, she was overpowered by emotion. She gripped onto Arthur's maroon tunic, clutching it as she bawled her hands into fists. She began to sob against his chest, her back shuttering as she struggled to breathe. There was no grace or elegance in her tears, no effort to conceal her sadness or inner turmoil.

She cried for Arthur. She cried because of happiness and relief. She cried because she loved him. She cried because he loved her, and she knew she would break his heart. She cried for herself. She knew now that she had magic with undeniable certainty. She was so frightened and confused. She felt unbearably alone. She felt like a stranger in her own skin. She cried because Merlin had witnessed her powers, one of her closest friends and now he would never see her the same again. Nothing would ever be the same again.

"Morgana," said Merlin in a gentle voice. He picked up his jacket from the grass beside him and wrapped her shivering frame up in its warmth. He deliberately peeled her off of Arthur's chest and into his arms.

She instinctively wrapped her arms around Merlin and buried her face in his chest. Merlin kept his jacket wrapped around her as he cradled her in his arms while she wept. He rested his chin atop her long wet hair and looked up at the night sky, tears silently falling from his own eyes. He knew how she was feeling, exactly. He had felt precisely the same way when he discovered his magic, and he felt her anguish. He knew what he had to do.

"Merlin," she said finally in a quiet and desperate voice as she pulled away to look up into his eyes. "You cannot tell anyone, please. If anyone finds out what I am—"

"Never, never," said Merlin, shaking his head and she knew he meant it. "You can trust me, Morgana, you know you can."

—

It all felt too familiar, one of them unconscious in bed and the other waiting anxiously at their bedside. Morgana sat beside Arthur as he slept on his back. She had changed into a nightgown, her hair now dry and long against her back. She kept dabbing Arthur's face with a damp cloth she wetted in a bowl beside his bed. Morning would arrive soon but sleep felt far away for Morgana.

Arthur's eyes fluttered, "What happened? Where am I?"

"Stay calm," said Morgana, breathing a sigh of relief. "You're alright. You've just had a bump on the head."

The prince pushed himself up into a sitting position, rubbing the back of his head and wincing. He squinted his eyes and visibly cringed as he remembered his actions over the last few days.

"Oh my—" he started. "What was I thinking?"

"You were enchanted," said Morgana. "Sophia and her father were trying to sacrifice you for some sort of ritual. They're gone now."

"Magic," he breathed.

"Yes," she conceded. "That explains your unusual behavior."

"How did I survive?" he asked. "How am I alive?"

"Merlin knocked you out before you could elope with Sophia," said Morgana, "There was no other way to stop you. He is a loyal friend."

"Remind me to thank him for my concussion," he relied, rubbing his skull. "I believe I owe you an apology." Arthur took Morgana's face in his hands and gently kissed her. She did not kiss him back and it hurt her heart more than his. She turned her head and closed her eyes. "Morgana, I—"

"We can't keep doing this," she whispered.

"What do you mean?" he replied. "Is this about Sophia? She meant nothing to me, Morgana. You must know that."

"It's not Sophia," she said. "I've just started seeing things more clearly. We have to stop this."

"You don't mean that," said Arthur, gently forcing her eyes to meet his. "What can I do to make you see how much I care for you?"

"Arthur, don't make this more difficult than it already is," said Morgana, tears trickling down her cheeks.

"I am in love with you," he breathed, his expression desperate now. "Did you need to hear me say it? I'll remind you every day for the rest of our lives if that's what it takes. I know you feel it, too. I've loved you since we were too young to know what love meant. You are my first love–"

"And I will not be your last," said Morgana solemnly. "Of course I love you, and part of me always will. You are not just my first love, you are my best friend. That will never change. One day, you will be the greatest king that Camelot has ever known, and I look forward to witnessing all the good you will do for the kingdom – but I will never be your queen."

"What's changed?" Arthur whispered, tears falling freely down his cheeks now.

"Everything," said Morgana, her breath trapped in her throat.

–

Morgana laid on her back, her eyes swollen and sore from tears. She twirled the Everstone between her fingers as she stared up at the billowing canopy top above her. Rippled swirled through the fabric from the night breeze, the humid summer night breathed infrequent gusts of relief to cool the air. She was the same person that she was before the Everstone found its way to her, but she was also nothing like her old self. She now knew she had magic, something she was raised to fear and would be her death if Uther was to find out.

She was alone now. Morgana had pushed Arthur away to protect him from herself. She had never felt so much pain nor made such a difficult decision. Another wave of emotion overtook her and a loud sob escaped her lips. The Great Dragon was wrong. She was no powerful sorceress. She was just a stupid girl undeserving of the necklace that hung from her neck. She knew nothing of magic. What she had done to save Arthur was the Everstone. The spell had appeared in her mind and escaped her lips in a manner beyond her control. She could never harness such power, and with unpredictability came danger.

A quiet knock at her door startled her. She sat up and hid the stone down the front of her dress. She prayed it was not Arthur who came to see her. She could not endure more sorrow.

"Merlin," said Morgana softly in a surprised tone. "I wasn't expecting you."

"I know," he said, lowering his eyes, slinking inside Morgana's chambers and locking the door behind him. "Gaius wanted me to bring you a sleeping draught. He thought it may help you rest."

"Oh," she replied, taking the vile in her hands. "Thank you, Merlin."

There was a long uncomfortable silence before Merlin spoke again, "I'm lying. I wanted to see you and the sleeping draught was an excuse."

"I'm alright, Merlin," she said, her voice breaking. "I just think I need to be alone right now."

"That isn't what you need," he said firmly. "You shouldn't be alone feeling the way you do. You're frightened. You're overwhelmed. You feel lost and confused. You think you're a monster wearing a stranger's skin. I know how it feels. I know exactly how you feel."

"How do you know what it feels like?" she asked. "I have magic, Merlin. You saw me use it today. How can you hope to understand?"

"Because—" he started, his heart racing. "Because I am Emrys."

Morgana's breath became caught in her chest, "What?"

"I know that you must have met the Great Dragon in the dungeons the night you went missing," said Merlin, rubbing the back of his neck. "When we found you, the only word you could say was 'Emrys.'"

"You're the warlock the Great Dragon spoke of?" said Morgana, her voice cracking. "The one he told me to find?"

Morgana pulled the Everstone from her bosom and held it in her hand. She cautiously stepped forward and placed her open palm gently on Merlin's cheek. She stood silently and watched as his eyes glowed gold along with the Everstone, shining brighter than ever before. It wasn't her imagination before when the stone glowed at Merlin's touch. This was real.

"Yes," he said finally. "I am who you're looking for. You are not alone, and you have nothing to be afraid of."

—

A/N: Thank you for all your wonderful reviews. I appreciate each and every one of my readers. Thank you for sticking with me! I've been gone awhile, but hopefully I won't be gone for long again.

Coming Soon: Garlot holds the key to Morgana's past and Camelot's future...

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