Myrddin looked at the other two as he said, "Um...Mordred, hurry and get Josh for the fourth point. Darr, take up the South while I protect the North. I wasn't expecting this overwhelming amount of power but we will have to do our best to contain any magic that leaks through the sacred shield."
Unfortunately Arthur had already started to awaken so as soon as Merlin started to move Arthur was cracking his eyes open and asking, "Where do you think you are going?"
Rolling his eyes Merlin answered, "Not your possession, remember dollop head. And as much as I love laying here with you, we need to check on the druids and help the boy they found."
"Boy? What boy?"
"Right, I forgot you don't know about the boy they found wandering about. There's this adorable little tyke, who looks an awful lot like you by the way, that Niniane has her magical claws into."
Arthur wrinkled his brow, surely there couldn't be two boys who looked like him. "Is his name Bradley by any chance?"
Merlin licked his dry lips as he fought the urge to stroke Arthur's lean form. Arthur of course had no such hesitation and lightly trailed his fingertips down Merlin's side and along his hips. "Yes, it is. How did you know that?" Merlin groaned. "And stop that, we really don't have the time right now so don't start something we can't finish."
Arthur nuzzled Merlin's neck as Merlin tilted his head back to allow him greater access. "The Jacoban sisters were worried about him, so they petitioned the court to help find and protect him," he said between soft kisses to the side of Merlin's neck. "Merlin," he groaned, "I need to..."
Merlin could feel the possessive need that ran through Arthur urging him to mark Merlin, branding him as Arthur's so that others would stay away. Despite the words that the druids' had them speak during the ceremony Merlin could also feel his own need to be so marked. The renewed interest of both their dicks and the heat of desire that was flickering once more between them made it tricky as they couldn't really afford the time for this to develop into anything more. However they both desperately needed this so he whispered, "Quickly Arthur the boy is running out of time."
AUTHOR'S NOTE!: ALL I'VE DONE HERE IS REMOVE THE X-RATED PART AT THE BEGINNING, SO IT MAY NOT READ WELL AT ALL. SORRY, THIS PART OF THE REWRITE IS JUST BEING A PAIN, PLUS LIFE IS GOING NUTS ATM SO I DON'T KNOW IF I WILL EVER BE ABLE TO REWRITE IT PROPERLY. THUS I HAVE DECIDED THAT FOR THE TIME BEING I WILL JUST POST THIS OLD ENDING SO THAT THOSE WHO ARE READING IT, AND ARE INTERESTED IN HOW IT ENDS AT LEAST HAVE SOMETHING TO READ. IF THERE ARE STILL ANY X-RATED PARTS LEFT PLEASE LET ME KNOW AND I WILL REMOVE THEM, BUT I THINK ONLY THE FIRST PART HAD THEM.
Arthur groaned even as he formed a seal at the junction of Merlin's neck and shoulder with his mouth. Merlin groaned not only at the contact but at the feeling of his blood and his magic rushing to the spot. Combining the feel of his mouth with a tight fist around both their cocks Arthur quickly brought them to completion even as he finished marking Merlin with a quick lick to the spot on his neck, leaving behind a small blueish-red dragon tattoo on Merlin's skin. Smiling at it Arthur swooped in to give Merlin a quick kiss before carefully leveraging himself up and off, making sure to keep one of their hands entwined with the other's hand at all times. Merlin just shook his head at Arthur's reluctance to let him go and waited until he was sitting up beside his beloved before, with a quick kiss to the back of the hand he held, he released that last contact. As soon as he did Merlin felt as if his body was unraveling as he was flooded with the beat of the Earth, the breath of the Universe, and the life of the Cosmos. He felt dizzy as everything celebrated and welcomed him even as he breathed in time with the stars. It was so wonderful, so breathtaking but it was also so overwhelming that it felt as if his power was drowning him, especially as images flashed across his eyes and without realizing it he began to mumble, "Duzeins numbres d'esteillans maisiums Plura des ostes teles transgressiuns..."
He let loose a small painful whimper causing Arthur to quickly pulled him back against his chest making everything go so deathly quiet that he whimpered again at the lost.
"Merlin?"
Merlin smiled in shaky reassurance at Arthur. "Just give me a minute, wasn't expecting so much magic."
Arthur hugged him close, letting one hand trail across Merlin's chest as he said, "Sure thing, only could you conjure us some clothes? A few more minutes of your naked body against mine and I won't be held responsible."
Merlin lightly hit Arthur with his elbow as he chuckled, his eyes flashing gold. Now that they were both fully dressed, even down to a red neckerchief to hide the small dragon on his neck, he set his mind to figuring out how to ward his senses from the magic all around him so that he wouldn't have to be in constant contact with Arthur. Closing his eyes he tentatively reached out to the power that flowed through and around him. As he reached for it everything became so much more than itself, a perfect maelstrom of magic that was everything, everyone, every time calling to him. riding the wave he could immediately see that he would be unable to ward and anchor himself against it as he was magic and now that the barrier between it and him was gone he was actually a part of the life stream. He also saw that Kilgharrah had it all wrong, it was Fate that was trying to control Arthur and him, not Destiny.
"Fate is what happens to you, Destiny is what we make in spite of our Fate," he murmured.
"Shh...shh..it's okay I have you my love."
Merlin settled into the river of magic once more. It seemed that the only thing he could do was stop fighting but once he did he would be tied to the life of the Cosmos, as long as they existed he would, ageless and undying. He saw no way out for himself but searching he did find that here were two paths open to Arthur. One would give Merlin an anchor to the mortal world, holding him to this body and planet but would also drag Arthur into the life stream with him. Tying Arthur to the life of the cosmos, ageless and undying. The other would require Merlin to sever the bond that they had just strengthened between them, setting Arthur free to live the life fated for him but casting Merlin's soul adrift. Heavily swallowing he made the choice it was painful to do, he only hoped that he could break the bond quickly so that Arthur wouldn't have time to feel anything. Only as he gathered his courage Arthur seemed to sense something was up.
"Merlin, I don't know what you are planning to do but you had better the hell not leave me out of any decision you are thinking of making," he warned the man in his arms.
Merlin sighed as he let his magic drift in the world around them and opened his eyes. "Arthur," he said as he turned in the arms that held him so that he could look Arthur in the eyes as he cupped Arthur's cheek. "I have no choice, I am magic thus a part of what flows all around and through us. You, however, you do have a chance to live a normal human existence. I want you to have that even if it is without me. If you want I can make it so it is as if we never met."
Arthur crushed Merlin to him as he growled, low and dangerous. "Don't you even fucking think about it Merlin! I AM your guardian, your soulmate, your anchor, and your husband you idiot. Seeing as I've been called the Once and FUTURE King twice now it seems that I am already fated to be caught up in some immortality deal so if you are worried about that don't. Besides didn't you just say something about Destiny being what we make in spite of the crap Fate keeps throwing our way? So just do whatever you need to do to keep everyone else safe and you grounded when you are not by my side thus allowing us to go save Bradley in the next few minutes. I really would like to make love to you in my own bed sometime today." He pulled back to look Merlin in the eyes. "Then I expect you to explain those words you were mumbling earlier."
Laughing Merlin bumped the side of his head against Arthur's chest. "You lunatic you just want my body."
"I want YOU now and forever, plus a day. Now get a move on we can't keep sitting here while Niniane does who knows what to that kid."
"Moving."
Merlin took a deep breath as he prepared himself as best he could. Slowly he moved away from the comfort and security that was Arthur. As he did so he allowed the magic within him the freedom to merge and flow as it would with the huge ocean of magic that was all around him. Arthur gasped as this time he felt his own soul sing with energy as it joined Merlin's in the dance of life. The magic sparkled around them, warming the air as it curled and wrapped around the two of them. It hummed, flowed, and vibrated around the two of them in faint, glittering tendrils of red and gold that touched over, around, and through their skin, disappearing in sparks of light as it passed through their bodies. Letting loose the last physical connection he had to Arthur Merlin found that he was now able to flow with the magic around him instead of being bombarded with its intensity.
Merged as he was he could see what he had missed before, with Arthur he had an anchor so he would never truly be swept away and be able to control the magic that pulsed all around and through him. Without Arthur his small essence would have been swept away leaving behind an empty shell for the power to control and corrupt at will. Smiling he wove their souls tightly together, making the calm and quiet of Arthur his sanctuary so that the buzz and hum of life couldn't distract him.
Now that the Universe no longer threatened to overwhelm his senses he said, "Time to go."
Standing they bumped shoulders before heading out of the circle. As they breached the ball of magic that had obscured them within the circle from the druids they gasped in shock at the sight that met their eyes. All around them were huge gashes that were carved out of the land and there was fire still raging in the deeper gashes. The first druid they stumbled on was an unconscious Mordred.
Merlin ran to him even as he murmured, "This is East" before telling Arthur to head to their right as he bent down to check Mordred's pulse.
Finding a faint, but strong heartbeat he placed his right hand on the ground and his left on Mordred's chest Merlin said a simple healing even as he heard Arthur yell that he had found another druid at the South point. The effect of his healing spell was immediately apparent as Mordred's color returned and he began to stir. Sighing in relief he yelled at Arthur to check to the West and North for Myrddin.
"North, Myrddin took the North and Josh took the West."
Smiling at Mordred's softly whispered words Merlin helped him to sit up before asking, "Will you be okay while I check on him?"
Mordred grimaced in pain when he nodded but as he clutched his head he waved Merlin off. "Go."
Standing Merlin raced left to the Northern most part of the grove. Arriving he saw Arthur kneeling beside the still form of Myrddin. As Arthur's eyes drifted to met his Merlin knew that the old druid hadn't survived the backlash.
"NO!" He screamed as he fell to his knees, tears streaming from his eyes.
A spike of lightning made everything glow eerily for a second before it was followed by a painfully loud CRACK of thunder rumbling across a suddenly ominously cloud filled steel-grey sky. The ground began to buckle beneath them a moment but then Merlin felt himself swept up into strong arms.
"It is not your fault Ancient One."
Merlin buried his head into Arthur's chest even as he heard Mordred's quiet words.
"We seriously underestimated the amount of power that would respond to your call even after Myrddin identified you as the Cosmic Dragon. He died protecting the innocent, there is no higher calling for us."
Merlin turned his head to look at the young druid and saw two others slowly limping towards them. Wiping his eyes with the back of his hand he nodded sharply and, easing out of Arthur's embrace, stood up.
"You'll take care of him?"
Mordred nodded. "Of course Emrys."
Merlin smiled shakily before muttering another quick healing spell even as Arthur stood up next to him. Grabbing Arthur's hand in his Merlin's eyes flashed a pale gold as he called the East Wind to carry them to the Isle of the Blessed, completely missing the fact that Myrddin had begun to breathe once more.
Once on the Isle Merlin looked around even as Arthur bumped his shoulder and asked, "Can you whistle up my sword?"
"You won't need it."
Arthur rolled his eyes. "Sure, sure, if you say so. Can you just get it anyway?"
Merlin's eyes flashed even as he caught sight of Niniane in the ruins to his left. Arthur smiled as Excalibur appeared in his hand.
"Now let's go get the bitch."
"This way," Merlin told him even as he began walking. Entering the ruins he noticed the alter in the center was big enough to sacrifice a human on it. "A blood sacrifice, seriously."
"You think? Sometimes you are so bloody naive Merlin it's a wonder you are still alive."
"Yes he's a clever one is our Emrys."
Arthur moved in front of Merlin as Niniane appeared between them and the alter.
Niniane grinned wickedly as she said, "Ah the baby King thinks he can take out the wicked witch."
She laughed manically even as Merlin's eyes flashed a brilliant bright gold and a giant meteor fell from the sky.
Arthur stared a moment at Niniane's feet, as they were the only part of her that was sticking out from under the rock, before saying, "Well that was anticlimactic."
Blushing beet red Merlin shrugged sheepishly. "Told you that you wouldn't need your stupid sword," he muttered before asking the West wind to take them back to the glade to check on Bradley.
Arriving in the glade Arthur gasped in shock at the stillness of it all. The druids all were frozen in place, not moving. The wind, clouds, even the birds in flight were suspended in time. Looking around in awe of Merlin's power he not only felt the thrill of the things his lover could do without even thinking but also love for the gentle soul who was even now feeling guilty. Merlin himself was staring in shock at the absolute stillness of the glade and it was only a softly voiced "Emrys can you let us into the grove, please?" that snapped him out of it.
Quickly he said, "TĪMA."
There was a split second when the glade was bathed in a bronze light before Arthur felt the breeze and saw the birds wing their way across the sky once more. Noise filled the glade as the druids realized what had happened. As Merlin trotted over to the young boy at the center Arthur saw Mordred and the other druids from the grove arrive. He smiled to see Myrddin carefully supported by the two unknown druids, not at all surprised to see him alive. Hurrying to catch up with Merlin he couldn't wait to see Merlin's face when he realized that Myrddin wasn't dead. Coming up behind his love he had to chuckle as he saw Bradley open his eyes and all but launch himself into Merlin's arms. Merlin looked back at him as he manhandled Bradley up and onto his right hip.
"It's nice to see there's at least one person who can touch me other than you."
Arthur placed his arm in the small of Merlin's back and had to shake his head as he saw Bradley hide his head in the crook of Merlin's neck. After stealing a quick kiss he laughingly said, "Of course he can touch you he's a young me."
Merlin rolled his eyes. "Gods I hope not you prat. We should probably get you back to Camelot but first I want to check on Mordred and the other two druids."
Arthur snickered causing Merlin to look at him weirdly before getting a better grip on Bradley and turning to search the area for Mordred. Spying him outside a nearby tent Merlin made his way through the gathered druids to him. As he did so he had to continually dodge hands that reached to pat his back or touch his arm as the druids murmured their thanks and congratulations. Reaching Mordred he breathed a sigh of relief, he was starting to get the hang of avoiding accidental touches but it was still stressful when so many people were around.
"Mordred, is there anything I can do before we leave for Camelot?"
Mordred beamed at him, joy written all over his face and for a moment it looked like he would envelop Merlin in a hug. Merlin took a cautious step backwards even as Mordred reined himself in and said, "Thank you so much Ancient One for giving Myrddin back to us."
"What?! That's impossible Mordred, you know that it requires a life for a life."
Mordred now looked confused for a moment before saying, "He's inside Emrys and he wishes to talk to you before sending you on your way."
Merlin looked from Mordred to Arthur and then back. A little nervously he stroked Bradley's back as he murmured, "Little one I need you to go to either Mordred or Arthur. Okay?"
The little boy cautiously turned his head to eye Mordred before unlatching his arms from around Merlin's neck and reaching for Arthur. Arthur smiled as he took Bradley from Merlin.
"Have fun."
Merlin just gave him an odd look before chuckling a little and entering the tent. Inside Myrddin semi-reclined on what looked to be a comfortable chaise lounge. Slowly walking over to him Merlin couldn't believe his eyes. "How?"
"I suspect that you have control over life and death which was one of the reasons I wanted to talk to you. You need not fear this power Emrys, not with your guardian to ground and help guide you."
Merlin ducked his head as he said, "But the balance..."
"Niniane satisfied the balance in this case," Myrddin said even though he suspected that Emrys was probably an exception to the rule but he didn't want to burden the young wizard anymore than necessary.
"What I also wanted to talk to you about is the tormented seer within Camelot."
This caused Merlin to start and stare at Myrddin. "Seer?"
Myrddin nodded. "Yes Emrys a seer resides in Camelot. She has done rather well for being so alone and isolated but with Arthur and you also there her visions begin to slowly drive her insane. You must send her to us so that she can be trained."
"Morgause," Merlin murmured before asking, "And the third piece of the trinity?"
Myrddin smiled as he nodded in acknowledgement. "We have sent word for the bard Taliesin but it may be a while before we hear from him and I can not predict his reaction when he hears that it is for Camelot's King we call him home."
Merlin nodded in understanding before walking over to sit beside Myrddin. "Why have you not let the others finish healing you?"
"They do not have the power Ancient One, most of what is wrong is that I am old."
Merlin smiled as he shook his head. "Not that old."
Myrddin tried very hard not to gasp as he felt a wave of power flow over and through him. Taking a deep breath he slowly moved his other hand so that he could cover Merlin's hand, only to have Merlin move out of reach as he shook his head negatively at Myrddin. Myrddin eyed him and then looked over to the door before saying, "Emrys. Emrys listen to me. Return with your King to Camelot, send the seer here, and the rest...well the rest of the path of tomorrow will wind its way through the labyrinth of life as it will. You have the courage to change the things that are within your power to do so, you must find the serenity to accept those few things that are outside that power and rely on your own wisdom to know the difference between the two."
Merlin chuckled a little. "Okay, okay, I'll go but you do know I have no idea what you just said. Don't you?"
"Just go."
Merlin smiled at Myrddin before leaving the tent to rejoin Arthur and Mordred. As soon as he saw Merlin Bradley twisted and squirmed in Arthur's arms trying to throw himself at Merlin.
"Calm down little one," Merlin said as he reached to take Bradley from Arthur. Bradley immediately wrapped his tiny arms around Merlin's neck and tucked his head into Merlin's neck once Merlin held him safely in his arms. Merlin sighed as he juggled the frightened child.
"I'm not even going to ask what you..."
"I didn't..."
Merlin held one hand up to stop Arthur's words. "Let's just go home."
"SAGA HWÆT IC HATTE," Mordred began only to be interrupted when Merlin said, "Not again! Can't anyone just do a simple spell besides me?"
Mordred sighed before continuing, "An outsider am I, whom iron has wounded and swords have scarred; sated with fighting weary of weapons. War I see often, cruel conflict: comfort I do not look for that succour should come to me in the clash of war before I perish completely among men. What hammers leave, the hard-edged and keen-ground. Handiwork of smiths, smites and shears me at the wall of the city. I await always a still worse combat. No kind of doctor could I ever find in any settlement who could with his herbs heal up these wounds, but the sword-cuts increase upon me day and night from deadly blows. SAGA HWÆT IC HATTE. And Emrys the riddle only summons the doorway, it is you who open and power the way so please answer."
"SCYLD."
This time the change was almost instant as one second they were with the druids and the next Arthur, Bradley, and Merlin were in Arthur's bedroom in Camelot.
"Well home sweet home finally. Though why that riddle for Camelot is a riddle itself."
Arthur looked questioningly at Merlin as he asked, "Why what was the answer?"
"Shield."
"Huh." Arthur looked around. "Maybe it's not Camelot, maybe it is me. After all we did arrive in my room and I did pledge to be your shield."
Merlin shrugged. "Maybe. Anyway I should see about finding a place for Bradley to sleep."
"There's a servant's room off mine, put him there. With you staying in my room from now on he'll not want to stay anywhere else."
Merlin's jaw dropped as he gave Arthur an incredulous look. "A servant's room off your royal chambers?"
Arthur shrugged sheepishly. "You get him settled in. I'm going to talk with Max about a formal dinner to announce a few changes around here."
Merlin rolled his eyes. "You just want to avoid the whole discussion about why I didn't know there was a perfectly fine servant's quarters here."
Arthur kissed the top of Merlin's head before making his way over to the door. Stopping with his hand on the handle he turned back to ask, "Almost forgot to ask, what was so important that Myrddin had to talk to you about?"
Merlin paused in his search for the mysterious servant's quarters to say, "Oh that's right. He wants Morgause to go to them to be trained before her visions overwhelm her. And where is this so called servant's quarters anyway?"
Arthur shook his head. "Why does it no longer surprise me that there is magic hiding in Camelot?" He sighed as he walked over to the far side of his bed and pushed on a section of the wall so that it swung open to reveal a dust covered room. "Here. I'll swing by her room and let her know. She better be prepared to take some guards with her."
Merlin laughed as he looked into the room. Trust Arthur to have his servant's quarters hidden away out of sight. "Don't interrogate her Arthur, talk to her. She's a seer so she probably already knows you are coming."
Merlin's eyes flashed pale gold and the room was clean and ready to live in. Arthur shook his head. "Lazy," he said before finally leaving.
Merlin looked at the little boy in his arms. "So what do you think of your new room?"
Bradley stuck his thumb in his mouth as he looked around the room with his eyes, his head firmly on Merlin's shoulder. Merlin carried him further into the room until they stood in the center.
"Come on Bradley, you have to get down some time. Don't you want to try out your new bed?"
While Merlin was trying to get Bradley to stop clinging to his neck Arthur was learning that he would have to wait a few weeks for supplies if he wanted the type of banquet he was outlining to Maxwell. Scowling Arthur left Maxwell to take care of it while he went to send Morgause off to the druids with Elyan and two other knights. Having finally gotten Bradley to let go Merlin went back to his servant duties, which now included caring for Bradley. Of course Merlin immediately moved his things into the royal servant's quarters, but he slept with Arthur each and every night.
Finally the night of the banquet arrived and Merlin found himself seated to Arthur's left. Looking out at Arthur's knights and how they idealized his lover, never mind the pedestal that most of the common folk who served them had Arthur on, he felt time shift for a moment. He saw the parts of Arthur's fate that had been woven deeply into the fabric of the world fraying until they broke, falling away into dust. Arthur would now wait by his side for the trumpet to call him forth when he was needed once more after Camelot's time in the sun had passed, he would not be alone in the centuries to come.
Smiling he was jolted back to the here and now to see Braised Duck Breast and Mushroom and Leek soup with ham and egg on the table in front of him. Just as he began eating he heard Morgause's voice whisper in his head, "What place will there be within the Universe to which the winged praise of Arthur and his sorcerer Merlin will not extend?"
Merlin almost chocked at those words. "Wizard and way too much information Morgause. How goes the ride?"
"Boring. How goes it in Camelot?"
"What do you know?"
The link faded on Morgause's laughter just as Merlin saw Venison Loin with Celery Root Puree, Seared Elk Loin, and Whiskey Braised Elk Shank being brought into the banquet room from the kitchen. Shaking his head he wondered why Arthur was going all out tonight of all nights. At that moment he felt a pair of small arms clamp onto his leg under the table.
"Bradley," he whispered to the small body now affixed to his leg.
He grimaced as he felt Arthur stand up beside him, this was going to be fun. Thankfully at that moment the doors banged open as Lancelot and Perceval escorted Sir Arwen along with what looked to be the King of Aarbyville into the room. Something that was confirmed when the man bellowed, "Where's my son? What have you done with him?"
The last to enter was a colorfully dressed young man with a lute in his hands. Arthur didn't even blink or stutter as he switched gears to say, "Welcome to Camelot Pirate King Amaethon, your son is currently along the outer wall with Sir Agravaine." Arthur looked amoung his knights until he spotted Sagremar. "Sir Sagremar will relieve him and send him here."
Sir Sagremar stood and bowed slightly first to Arthur and then to Amaethon before racing out of the banquet room via the servant's entrance. There was a shuffle at the high table and Merlin was just about to move, as best he could with Bradley attached to his leg, but Arthur quickly grabbed his arm forcing him to stay. The lord to the right of Arthur moved around and took the seat to Merlin's left, leaving the seat to Arthur's right vacant.
"We graciously invite you to join us at the high table. Sir Arwen is welcomed to join my knights. May we inquire as to the name of the last member of your party?" Arthur nodded in the direction of the brightly colored individual standing just behind the Pirate King.
Amaethon seemed to consider Arthur's words a moment before saying, "We will be honored to join you once our son arrives. This gentlemen is known as Taliesin, we met him on our way here. He says he was sent by the druids thus we offered him our protection."
Arthur acknowledged both what Amaethon said and what he only implied with a nod of his head. "In that case we also welcome Taliesin to Camelot and look forward to hearing why he is here but that will have to wait until court tomorrow. For now, please join us."
"For he who the Eastern peoples will speak as will the Western for he gives all something to fight for, which is his most powerful weapon I will certainly wait and most happily join." And with those words Taliesin skipped over to one of the side tables to join the lower lords sitting there.
"Huh, he reminds me of someone. Can you let go of my arm now? I have to coax Bradley up into my lap without anyone noticing," Merlin murmured softly to Arthur.
Arthur started but he slowly loosened his grip on Merlin's arm and let him go. Sitting down as Galahad came into the room Arthur barely noticed the brief skip of time as one minute Galahad was at the door and the next he was being roughly hauled into the arms of the Pirate King Amaethon without anyone taking a step. Looking sideways at Merlin he saw Bradley now sitting in Merlin's lap as if he had always been there.
"Merlin..."
Merlin just smiled at him and shrugged before going back to eating his main course. Arthur sighed, he should probably get used to Merlin performing magic. Still it was exceedingly hard not to tie the little shit to his bed and lock him away from the dangers of the world. As the main course was cleared and the servants began filing in with dessert consisting of Fig Tarts with Cheeses, Strawberry Apple Crisp with Hazelnut Whipped Cream, and Strawberry Champagne Soup with Strawberry Rice Ice Cream and Almond Brittle Arthur once again stood.
"Camelot has seen many troubles of late due to magic. It has come to our attention that it would be a lot easier to protect our land from magic if we had magic on our side. Thus, after careful deliberation with our advisors, we declare that from this day forth magic will no longer be banned in Camelot," Arthur's voice echoed in the now totally silent room. "While the study of magic and the use there of will now be..."
A cold wind blew through the room making the candles flicker seconds before a woman materialized in the center, just beneath the chandelier. Phantom music filled the room and as her voice filled the air Merlin strained to comprehend what type of spell she was weaving.
"BLAH KHIEN BARRAH FWEELAH, BLAH KHIEN AIZA KRUM, ALOE KHIO BRAGAM HARAH EEFNELL, BROE FLOE MESING LAH, BREEY OOLAH NAAAD RYU. SORIN SAR AKHWAH, ROE HAGROE NONESTROE, BROILIN SAR AKHWAH, MORTSIN DANAH BRADEH, BROILIN SAR AKHWAH, NOE-...WEEBEN PROE, PROE SAH YAKMAH, HARYAY NAKHAHI AGAH MADAH SADAH HAGAH!"
With his hands covering his ears, spider webs covering everything and everyone, plus the whole room deep in enchanted sleep Merlin finally let his magic loose to crush the woman beneath the overhanging chandelier just before she was able to launch a dagger at Arthur. As everyone began to slowly awaken from their enchanted sleep Merlin and Arthur just stared at each other. Arthur slowly sat down, apparently his speech regarding magic would have to wait until court tomorrow.
He carefully leaned into Merlin's space to ask, "Is the boy okay? And what the hell was she on about?"
Merlin shrugged. "Bradley is fine, he was already half asleep when this all went down so he probably won't wake up until morning. As for her spell the words sounded like utter nonsense to me. What I think the magic was reacting to was her meaning rather than the actual words she was using."
Arthur cocked one eyebrow as he looked questioningly at Merlin. Merlin bit his bottom lip a moment before saying, "This is just a guess mind you, based on the result and a hunch. I think she meant; Lovely night has come to us lovely night, soft and dark the lovely night that ends a long and hard, weary day so rest...lay your body down forget your life spiders of the night come, spin your silky webs, spiders of the night come, bind them in their sleep now spiders of the night, Spin! Wrapped in your shroud dead to the world...Just like my son: dead, dead, dead, DEAD! Of course she could of meant daughter, child, or something else entirely."
Arthur rubbed his eyes even as servants moved to clear the tables and knights rushed to clean up the body.
"So who's your sorcerer?" Amaethon's question startled them apart as it rang through the room.
"With all that has happened tonight we will pick this up tomorrow during court. For now may I suggest we adjourn for the night."
Amaethon's eyes shifted from Arthur to Merlin and back before settling on his own son. Nodding slightly to Arthur he got up and, after snagging Arwen, he joined his son. Arthur stood, nodded, and turned to give Merlin a impatient scowl.
Merlin rolled his eyes, murmuring "Way to be discrete prat" as he maneuvered himself and Bradley up and out of his seat.
Arthur softly chuckled as he slipped an arm around Merlin. "If I had actually been able to finish my speech they would know about us, so to hell with discrete."
Merlin licked his lips as Arthur's words warmed his heart. Their eyes locked and held for a few moments before Merlin groaned. "Come on let's put Bradley to bed before I let you have your wicked way with me here and now."
Arthur gasped as his eyes dilated with desire and his cock swiftly filled. Licking his lips he placed his forehead on Merlin's, his breathing coming hot and heavy as between one breath and the next Arthur wrapped his arms around Merlin for one, quick hug before swooping in for a passionate kiss. Desire wrapped around them as Merlin's free hand slid under Arthur's shirt and Arthur's lips moved to nibble at Merlin's neck beneath his neckerchief. Merlin groaned, swimming in the vortex of feelings that Arthur invoked as with a flash of gold he said, "SLÆPERN."
When they appeared in their bedroom Merlin quickly flashed Bradley into his room as he did away with Arthur and his clothes. Joining Arthur on the bed Merlin looked at Arthur, a huge smile on his face, only to find a hungry, predatory look in Arthur's eyes. Merlin licked his lips, desire shimmering high between them causing Merlin's form to flicker and shimmer in the candle lit room. For a brief second he looked like a huge midnight black dragon with suns, stars, and galaxies flowing seamlessly across his form, they even seemed to dance off Merlin's skin and around the room. Arthur gasped at the sight just seconds before their groans echoed in the room as flesh met flesh. Hips stuttered as hard cock slid deliciously against hard cock. Arthur tweaked Merlin's nipples with his left hand even as he teased Merlin's opening with his right.
"Finally," he growled into Merlin's ear.
"Less talking, more doing," Merlin begged.
Arthur nipped Merlin's lip. "Patience love, patience."
Merlin groaned as he felt passion, desire, and magic burn through his blood. He was in no mood to be patient so he used his magic to give him a little assist as he bucked and rolled them over so he was on top. Sitting up he licked his lips as gazed down at Arthur. Arthur gripped Merlin's hips and lifted him up just enough so that Merlin could guide Arthur to his entrance.
"It's going to hurt."
"Magic," Merlin whimpered even as he lowered himself down onto Arthur's cock.
As Arthur filled him lightening sparked around their bodies. For a moment Merlin held still as he adjusted to the feel of Arthur inside him. He loved this, loved feeling the intense connection between the magic harbored in his body and the magic that flowed through the fabric of the universe and time that was his to command. Loved the fact that without the druids to bind and protect the area around them only Arthur could help ground him, thus keeping any leakage of his magic from escaping. As he began to move magic sparkled dangerously around them.
"Merlin," Arthur warned as this time he felt the castle rumble.
"I know, I felt that too."Merlin used his magic to shift them again. Now Arthur was above and around him giving him a much needed feeling of enclosure.
Arthur rested his forehead on Merlin's. "You're killing me here, Merlin."
Merlin licked his lips, his magic was always wild when Arthur and he made love but lately it had been getting harder and harder to keep it under control. Tomorrow he would need to speak to Morgause or even Aithusa about why but right now he really wanted Arthur so he made a split second decision. "Just move."
Arthur groaned as he thrust deep and fast into Merlin. Merlin clawed at Arthur's back as he gave himself over to the sensations that ran through his body each time Arthur hit that spot deep inside. As he raced towards orgasm his magic pulsed and bubbled beneath his skin and even through the heat of desire he knew that he was just moments away from being flung into the river of time and the flux of the universe. He barely remembered to anchor his soul to Arthur's before he came and his essence was thrown into the chaos of time, space, and life. Now he could sense the many alternate universes and the threads of fate that connected them all. Tumbling through the currents of power he barely felt the tug from his soul as Arthur tried to bring him back home even as images again fluttered across his vision and he murmured, "Lur entrebracier Gemini larruntj En funtaines le pot commoverunt..."
Mere seconds later he slammed back into his body as a sharp pain lanced through the scattered points of his essence. Blinking as he adjusted to being confined to human form again he looked around for Arthur.
"Oh my god, Arthur!"
Frantically he moved to apply pressure to the huge knife gash that ran from Arthur's inside elbow to his wrist. Arthur lay on his back in a bright red pool of blood as Merlin gathered his magic and all but shouted, "GEHÆLAN!"
Merlin's eyes and Arthur's arm glowed neon gold as muscle and flesh quickly knitted back together. "HEOLFOR."
Arthur's skin began to look more alive as blood was replaced and he stirred. Tears of joy dropped from Merlin's eyes as he gathered Arthur close in a bone crushing, relief filled hug. Arthur's weary voice drifted over him, "Finally back are we?"
"Yes you idiot. Never do that again."
Weakly chuckling Arthur kissed the top of Merlin's head, "Hopefully there will never be a time that I will have to but I'm not promising anything. If it's the only way to bring you back to me then I would do it again in a heartbeat." He took a breath before asking, "What do you see when you go Merlin? You keep mumbling something, it's not magic that I've heard of before. So, what is it?"
Merlin's forehead wrinkled as he thought back. "It's not magic or really clear but I think it's a vision of an age far into the future. What little I catch of what I have said is probably not even correct but it kinda translates like; 'The twelve house of the zodiac will cry to see their guests' transgressions. Gemini will leave off their embraces; They will move Aquarius to the fountains'. There is more but it hasn't been clean enough for words, not that the words are all that clear." He shrugged before gathering Arthur close and sleepily using his magic to clean up the blood and semen before they drifted off to sleep.
The next morning Arthur woke first and spent a few moments worriedly watching Merlin sleep. The roller coaster Merlin's magic seemed to be on recently needed to stop. Sighing he rubbed Merlin's back as he said, "Merlin."
Merlin stirred a little at the sound of Arthur's voice but didn't wake. Arthur shook him a little as he said, "You need to wake up love."
Merlin groaned. "Why?"
Arthur chuckled. "You need to go talk to Albertus about what happened last night."
Merlin blushed all over as he faced Arthur to say, "No way you prat."
"Yes way idiot."
They smiled at each other as Bradley padded in with his thumb in his mouth. Grabbing a couple of blankets to wrap around themselves they got out of bed. Arthur changed into his royal robes while Bradley sat on the bed, swinging his feet, watching the two of them. Merlin shrugged into some clean clothes before walking over and holding out his hand for Bradley to take.
"Okay, we're off for an embarrassing check-in with Albertus. I'll see you in the throne room in a little while."
Arthur kissed him on the cheek before saying, "Only if he says you are well enough to attend."
"You can't keep putting this off Arthur."
"I didn't mean I wouldn't finish my public announcement you idiot. Only that you don't need to be there when I did."
"Oh, right." Merlin said somewhat sheepishly before he walked out that door with Bradley.
While Merlin checked in with Albertus Arthur entered the throne room and called for the reading of the two edicts up for review.
The Builders' Guild request the crown invest in fine timbers from our new trading partners from Crafthole for the kingdom's long-term savings."
"Make it so."
"The Jewelers' Guild request the crown tax all gem imports from outlying kingdoms to promote the purchase of local gems."
"The court recognizes that agreeing to higher import taxes may make sense for the treasury and some of the gem merchants. The court also recognizes that said tax may result in some artisans and smaller gem merchants finding themselves without access to any gems or having to pay an increased rate for the gems that are available. The crown itself wonders if perhaps there is a bigger picture here. Does Camelot actually need more coin for building or road construction? Therefor we rule that the decision in this case be discussed during the next council session."
Maxwell bowed to the court indicating that there were no more new edicts for the court to hear at this time. Nodding his acknowledgement Arthur motioned for the first petitioner to approach. A middle-aged farmer approached and bowed before the throne.
"Your majesty a freak frost suddenly descended on my farm beyond the city walls and destroyed my current crop of tomatoes. To offset my losses I formally request to be relieved of my tax burden this harvest."
"The crown hereby releases you from paying this harvest's taxes and issues you one-hundred simoles to help you prepare for next harvest plus feed your family."
"You are most gracious my lord."
The man was led away by one of the newer squires. Now a younger woman stepped forward with her young son, who looked slightly singed by fire. Before they could begin Arthur held up his hand as he saw Merlin slink in through the double doors. Merlin smiled when Arthur caught his eye and cocked a questioning eyebrow. With a tilt of his head Arthur indicated that Merlin was to make his way up and stand beside him. Merlin sighed as he made his way through the group of people gathered in the room. Once Merlin had taken his place behind Arthur's right shoulder Arthur gestured for the young woman to speak.
"My liege, as you can see by the state of my son some of Camelot's younger, more impulsive citizens have taken up a new sport called dragon taunting."
"WHAT?!"
Arthur rubbed his eyes at the sound of Merlin's outburst before looking back at him. "You done?"
Merlin gave him an ugly look but he kept quiet. Shaking his head Arthur turned back to the woman and her son. "The crown acknowledges that this is a very dangerous sport and will not tolerate this kind of foolishness in our kingdom. We have enough problems without our children going around poking dragons with sticks. Thus the crown hereby bans this sport."
The woman seemed relieved as she curtsied. "While I am happy to hear that sire I do wonder how you will be able to keep the children away from the dragon."
Arthur could almost hear Merlin grinding his teeth in an effort to stay quiet and keep his magic from flaring out over Camelot. "I assure you that access to the dragon for this game will no longer be possible or allowed."
"Yes Sire." She was escorted to one side as the last petitioner approached the throne.
"Sire," the twenty-something looking man said as he bowed. "I seek to start a candy shop in the outer village. I believe it will bring much needed happiness to the kingdom and so respectfully request permission from the throne."
"That seems like a great addition to the outer village, the throne hereby grants permission. The crown also issues the sum of five hundred simoles to help you with any start-up costs you encounter."
Shocked the young man bowed as he stammered, "Thank you Sire, you are most generous."
He moved off to the side as Arthur motioned for Perceval and Arwen forward. As the two knights bowed Arthur got an almost evil grin on his face. "Sir Perceval how nice to see you alive. The crown did wonder if you had dropped dead once through the gates of Camelot seeing as you completely ignored the circling dragon on your way out."
Perceval winced even as Arwen's eyes darted to Merlin. "Sire I am afraid that is my fault. I assured Sir Perceval and Sir Tristan that their presence would be neither needed nor missed."
Arthur looked at Sir Arwen a moment before following his gaze to Merlin. Sighing he said, "I see." Now he stood up. "As was announced last night magic is now legal in Camelot and will be treated as any other craft. A person using magic to commit a crime will be given the same trial and, if found guilty, the same sentence as anyone else committing that particular crime. To assist us during this time of transition and beyond we need someone who has proved not only trustworthy and loyal to the crown but who also controls extremely powerful magic. I hereby formally name my Royal Consort as protector of this land and recognize him as Royal Wizard." He turned and held out a hand to Merlin as he finished with, "Merlin step forward and take your rightful place at my side."
Merlin ducked his head as he shyly smiled but he reached out and took Arthur's hand. Arthur squeezed it before giving him a slight tug forward.
"Hey!"
Laughter rippled across the room as Arthur rolled his eyes and said, "We're waiting on you, you idiot. You now sit beside me so get your butt over here."
Merlin looked Arthur in the eye as he stepped forward and around Arthur to sit in the consort's chair on Arthur's left. "You can let go of my hand now prat."
Arthur blushed as he let go of Merlin's hand and turned back to face the court before sitting back down. Those gathered took that as a sign that Arthur was done with his announcement and many began to loudly clap while the knights cheered, but there were a few present who just stood quietly. Arthur made sure to take note of who they were even as Merlin warily shook his head. Perceval and Arwen grinned widely as they bowed to the both of them before making their way to the side of the room.
As the noise died down a teasing male voice floated through the room. "Skinny with big ears isn't what I imaged the most powerful sorcerer to ever live would look like."
A shocked murmur ran through the room at those words. "Do these people even know that you hold the power to move worlds and remake the rules of fate, never mind the power over life and death, in the palm of your hands?"
Merlin blushed even as his hand quickly darted out to grasp Arthur's arm. "Taliesin, welcome to Camelot. I take it you have been in communication with the druids. Personally I would take the things they say about me with a grain of salt."
Taliesin laughed as he approached the throne. "Actually Emrys I do believe you are even more powerful than what the druids have led me to believe. I hope Camelot realizes the treasure they have in you."
Merlin smiled at Arthur even as he tightened his hold on Arthur's arm, trying to keep his love from strangling Taliesin. "See Sir Arwen was right, I AM a treasure." His eyes shifted over to Taliesin for a second before tracking back to Arthur. "Arthur. Arthur look at me."
Arthur slowly turned his head to look at Merlin. As soon as their eyes met Merlin discreetly waved Taliesin over to the side of the room so that he was out of Arthur's line of sight. "You made the announcement you prat, Taliesin is not a threat to me. I think he just wanted those here to know that Camelot couldn't be in any better hands."
Arthur gave him a look before chuckling. "You trip over your own feet Merlin, Goddess help us if you are the best hope for Camelot."
Merlin stuck his tongue out at Arthur in response to his teasing before saying, ""Why don't we finish up court so we can go back to our room and you can grill me about what Albertus said. You know you want to."
Arthur leaned forward so that their foreheads touched for a moment before sighing and turning back to the room. Scanning the room his eyes found Pirate King Amaethon and his son Galahad. Motioning them forward he said, "Camelot welcomes Pirate King Amaethon of Aabyville to court."
Amaethon nodded to Arthur as he said, "The Kingdom of Aabyville thanks the Kingdom of Camelot for it's warm welcome. Our son and heir..."
Merlin tuned out, court was boring so he figured that now would be a good time to check in with Morgause to see if either she or the druids had any idea why his magic was behaving the way it was.
"Morgause. Morgause, can you hear me?"
Laughter flirted through his mind as she replied, "Yes Merlin I can hear you so please stop shouting."
"Sorry, it's just that when you talk to me I can barely hear you."
"That's because...never mind. What did you contact me for?"
"My magic has been acting up lately, even with Arthur's help I've been having trouble. I was wondering if you've 'seen' anything."
"Haven't seen anything, hold on while I check with Mordred."
She was gone from his mind for only a second before she was back to say, "He says you have your anchor so it shouldn't be flaring out of control any more but he's gone to ask Myrddin to be sure."
Merlin half smiled. "Is there something going on with Mordred and you that I need to tell Arthur?"
He felt her blush at the same time he felt Arthur's elbow in his side. "Ow!" He scowled at Arthur. "What did you do that for your prat?"
"Well let's see, court is over because some idiot can't keep his conversation out of my head so I kind of got distracted."
Merlin bit his bottom lip, he honestly hadn't realize that he had been broadcasting loud enough for Arthur to hear. "Arthur, I'm..."
Arthur's glare cut his words off. "Sorry, I know but at the moment I don't care about court, or what Mordred and Morgause are up to. What has she seen? I can't hear her side of the conversation."
"Mordred has gone to speak with Myrddin as he's not sure why I'm having trouble all of a sudden."
Merlin worried his bottom lip a few moments before finally hearing, "Emrys."
"Myrddin."
"Ask him what is going on."
"I am sending Mordred back to Camelot with Morgause. The completion of the Power of Three should help but I believe you are holding on too tight to your magic Ancient One."
"What is he saying Merlin?"
"Mordred is escorting Morgause back to Camelot."
Arthur gave Merlin an evil look. "About you, you clotpole."
"He thinks I'm holding on too tight to my magic."
Arthur looked thoughtful for a moment then said, "He may be right after all you are magic. What are you so scared of that you can't relax your grip on what is essentially a major part of you?"
Merlin shrugged. "Myrddin, are you sure I won't hurt anyone if I let my magic free?"
"If you feel easier using the threefold balance to help you start to learn how to ride the power within and around you go ahead. Only you must realize that eventually you will need to trust only yourself and your bond with your guardian Emrys."
"Merlin!"
"Patience Arthur, he's explaining that Morgause, Mordred, and Taliesin can help me test myself at first."
Arthur looked at him questionably. "How?"
"It's complicated as actually the seer, druid, and bard trio are suppose to be your Power of Three during your reign. However it may be possible, with Myrddin as the druid, for me to lean on that strength as I learn not to fear my power."
Arthur reached out to hold Merlin's hand. "That's good because there really is nothing to fear love."
Merlin smiled weakly at Arthur. Just as their eyes met a voice shattered the silence, "I run through time and space, watching, listening, questioning. Worlds of wonders and great knowledge are mine for the journeying. Great Arel Ri this most humble of bards greets the Heavenly Bear and thanks him for his welcome. It gladdens my heart to hear your faith in a son of Tir na n'Og."
"What?" Arthur asked as he turned to glare at the figure that had dared to approach the throne without so much as a by your leave.
Merlin sighed. "Taliesin, seriously do you have a death wish?"
Taliesin chuckled. "That's what Pirate Prince Galahad said when I volunteered to inform you that Sir Arwen, Pirate King Amaethon, and he would like to finalize things with you before they left."
Arthur took a deep breath, slipping back into King mode with some difficulty. "Can the esteemed gentlemen wait one more day?"
Taliesin quickly looked back over his shoulder towards the great doors. Merlin and Arthur followed his gaze to see the very gentlemen they had been discussing hovering just outside.
"Right," Arthur said even as he beckoned them in. Sir Arwen, Sir Galahad, and Pirate King Amaethon joined Taliesin in front of the throne. Sir Arwen and Sir Galahad made to kneel but Arthur stopped them.
"Oh skip that nonsense this isn't a full court." He nodded to Pirate King Amaethon. "I hope you are not here to inform me that I'm about to lose one of my best knights.
Galahad smiled slightly at Arthur's words. "It has been my honor to serve, your majesty. With the blessing of my father and permission of the court I request to continue my training at your side."
"The court is pleased to grant your request." Arthur laughed as he stood up and reached to haul Galahad into a joyous hug. "You are one of the rogues of course you can stay. The round table just wouldn't feel right without you." He patted Galahad on the back a few times before releasing him. He turned and held out his hand to Pirate King Amaethon. "Your son has been a true knight of Camelot and a proud son of Aabyville. It will be an honor to sign a trade agreement with your kingdom."
Arwen handed Amaethon the Aabyville treaty and Amaethon held it out to Arthur with one hand as he shook Arthur's hand with the other. Arwen then held out Crafthole's treaty to Arthur. Arthur released Amaethon's hand and took the treaty from Arwen, which he stuck under his left arm so that he could unroll the parchment that the Aabyville treaty was written on. Merlin watched them all file into the war room off to the left side of the throne room. Drumming his fingers he contemplated following them or sneaking back to the royal bed chamber. He had just decided that he much preferred spending time with Bradley to dull treaty negotiations when there was a commotion at the double doors. Quickly glancing over to the war room in the hopes that Arthur had heard the commotion Merlin heavily sighed when he saw that he was on his own.
"Hey!" He yelled at the knights guarding the entry doors as he stood and began walking towards them.
One of the knights turned to see who had yelled, seeing Merlin striding towards him he nodded and gestured for the entourage in the hallway to follow him into the throne room. Merlin met them halfway, a little surprised to see Tristan and his wife Isolde.
"You are back earlier than expected. Who are these people with you?"
Tristan smiled as he bowed slightly, causing Merlin to blush. "It is a pleasure to be home again, My Lord." Sweeping an arm towards the entourage he said, "May I present Prince Gawaine and Admiral Connor of Tredony, along with their guards to the court. They are here to discuss countermeasures that their Navy may be able to help Crafthole and Camelot deploy against the current threat from the Aabyville pirates. Also Prince Gawaine wishes to discuss a possible alliance and trade treaty between Camelot and Tredony."
Merlin pinched the bridge of his nose between his thumb and forefinger. "Damn grapevine spreads news faster than the wind. Why the hell they can't wait for the official announcement by the Royal Cryer is beyond me," he said with his eyes closed.
Because of this he completely missed the fact that the entire Tredony entourage had murmured a frightened "Kismisch Drache" as they hastily dropped to one knee and bowed their heads. Tristan, however, did notice.
"Um, My Lord."
"Tristan, please don't, just don't."
Tristan smiled slightly at the whining frustration that laced Merlin's words. "Merlin I think you should open your eyes. The Tredony delegation seems to be, um, frightened of you or at least of this Kismisch Drache that they seem to have mistaken you for."
Merlin rubbed his eyes with his thumb and forefinger before letting his hand drop and slowly opening his eyes. Groaning at the sight that greeted him he took a deep breath and loudly shouted, "ARTHUR!"
He smiled evilly as he felt Arthur's startled panic and heard the commotion coming towards them from the war room. It grew even wider as he heard a member of the Tredony entourage mutter, "Death walks towards us seeking souls to reap with but a look."
Merlin felt Arthur loom up behind him seconds before Arthur growled low in his throat and swept Merlin behind him. Merlin chuckled, his love sounded more animal than human when he got like this, no wonder the group cowing in front of them paled even further.
Tristan bowed at the waist before saying, "Sire may I present Prince Gawaine and Admiral Connor of Tredony."
Arthur just continued to glare so Merlin poked him in the small of the back with his forefinger with a soft mutter of, "Really Arthur they didn't do anything. I'm fine."
Arthur slowly turned his head to look at Merlin even as Taliesin said, "Prince Gawaine, Pirate King Amaethon would like to inquire as to why you seem so afraid of Lord Emrys."
Merlin's eyes held Arthur's as he said, "Now that is why I wanted you. Seriously I've been your consort officially for all of six hours and already everyone insists on calling me Lord. Plus Tristan here was trying to get me to deal with this group all on my own."
Arthur sighed. "Something else we need to work on." Turning back to the Tredony delegation he said, "Getting back to the business at hand. Welcome to the Court of Camelot. The crown also wonders what exactly you are so terrified of."
Prince Gawaine slowly glanced up at Arthur. "At first, sire, we were just surprised to encounter Kismisch Drache in Camelot. We only became frightened when we felt the energy of The Gevatter Tod enter the room."
Merlin's eyebrows rose in surprise at the name. Arthur gave him a questioning look even as Pirate King Amaethon said, "The Grim Reaper and Cosmic Dragon, my, my, that does explain a few things." He bowed to Arthur. "It has been a great honor and Aabyville looks forward to the golden age you bring." He nodded to Prince Gawaine. "I will await word of what your seers have seen." With a side look at his own son he finished with, "Once I have had a stern word with my own, personal, seer that is."
Prince Gawaine couldn't help a small soft chuckle at the look on Pirate Prince Galahad's face. Respectively he said, "Yes Sire."
Pirate King Amaethon and Sir Arwen took their leave, leaving behind a quiet and somber atmosphere. A few minutes passed before Merlin cleared his throat. "Arthur," he quietly said as he motioned for Prince Gawain and Admiral Connor to stand. Placing his hand supportively in the small of Arthur's back he said, "Why don't we all go into the war room so that the Admiral can outline his strategies and Prince Gawaine can present you with Tredony's trade proposal?"
Arthur closed his eyes and let the tension ease out of his body. "Our consort is right. Let us adjourn to the war room to discuss why you are here." He swept a hand in the direction of the room, indicating that Prince Gawaine and Admiral Connor should follow him. Arthur made sure to reach back and grab Merlin's hand so he could drag Merlin into the negotiations this time.
A few hours later they had the beginnings of a trade treaty hammered out, about a dozen countermeasures Tredony and Camelot could coordinate their troops to deploy against the pirates, and the possibility of a new knight in Prince Gawaine. Dispatching a few servants to guide the Tredony entourage to a suite of rooms Arthur walked with Merlin back to their rooms.
"While we have a quiet moment why don't you tell me what Albertus has to say about your magical problem."
Merlin smiled. "Not much, other than to be more careful. He did, however, tell me about a story his mother told him when he was a boy. It has taken him this long to realize that it is in fact a weak seer's hazy view of what might be. Apparently she saw the Cosmic Dragon's birth in human form and warned of the fate awaited if the Dragon's Guardian wasn't born, found, and bonded before twenty-one years had past."
Arthur rubbed his forehead even as they entered their bedroom. "Does you being this Cosmic Dragon and me being your guardian negate all the other prophesies everyone keeps referring to?"
Merlin chuckled a little. "No. Those are about the Once and Future King and his Court Wizard. In other words who we were born as, so we still need to bring about the golden age of Albion. Something you have already have been working on."
"I have?"
"Yes, you prat. You may not have noticed but in all three of the trade agreements you are working on with Crafthole, Aarbyville, and Tredony there is a small clause that those lands will be governed in your name."
Arthur started, he hadn't notice that little addition and it was strange that Merlin had considering that he had only been present during the last treaty negotiation. Then again with the bond they shared it really wasn't that surprising when he took a moment to reflect on it.
"And Albertus' fairy tale?"
"That one is about who we ARE. The thing is he can't remember all of it, just the 'end of the world' part so he's not sure what happens now."
"Well that's a relief because I get a headache just knowing what I do know. I really don't need another seer trying to tell me how my life's been mapped out long before I was even born."
Merlin kissed Arthur. "Love I seem to control our fate so while we will bring Camelot's bright future into being it doesn't mean you should take all they say seriously."
Arthur hugged him close just as Bradley came crashing into the room to fling himself at Merlin. Arthur smiled down at the boy. "Next order of business is to get this little one officially appointed as my heir."
Merlin ruffled Bradley's hair before picking him up. "That can wait until he's a bit older Arthur. Trust me when I say that we have time."
Arthur smiled as his eyes caught Merlin's and he saw a forever filled with adventure, surprises, and, above all, LOVE.
