XVI. Another's Sorrow
Arthur is sitting at the table in the antechamber of his room with a quill in his hand. A letter from King Bayard is lying on the table in front of him, and Arthur writes another sentence on a piece of parchment that's already containing part of his reply.
Morgana joined him some time ago to help him with his correspondence, and Arthur is grateful for it. Her insight is invaluable, and not for the first time he wonders how he managed to get anything done without Morgana and Merlin by his side the last time he ruled Camelot. They are nearly done with the letter to Bayard, and Morgana has leaned back in her chair, legs crossed, while she started cutting off small pieces of cheese from a loaf on the plate with Arthur's lunch. There's no fire currently burning in the fireplace behind her because the midday sun shines through the windows, and it's a pleasantly warm spring day.
Pondering how to phrase his next request, Arthur pauses with the quill hovering above the parchment. He's about to ask Morgana for her opinion once again, when his sister's voice snaps him out of his thoughts.
"Tell me, brother dear, has Merlin spoken to you about Nimueh lately?"
Arthur raises his head in surprise, the sentence he had already constructed in his mind forgotten. "What, why?"
"Oh, I don't know," Morgana says, a teasing smile on her lips. "They have been spending a lot of time together since Beltane, and since Merlin told her the truth about the two of you."
Arthur sets the quill aside, looking at his sister with narrowed eyes. "What are you talking about?"
Morgana casts him a long look, and a concerned expression crosses her face. "You really didn't notice?"
Arthur eyes her for a moment until he realizes what Morgana is getting at, and raises his eyebrows. "Are you seriously suggesting that Merlin is interested in Nimueh?"
Looking unsure, Morgana hesitates, but before she can say anything, Arthur shakes his head. "They spend a lot of time together because they're trying to figure out what all the magical artifacts from Cornelius Sigan's tomb and the items our father has confiscated over the years actually are. And if you don't believe me, ask your sister. If Merlin is otherwise occupied, then Morgause or Ruadan are helping Nimueh with her task."
Morgana frowns. "And you're sure there's nothing more to it?"
Arthur laughs softly, still amused by what Morgana assumed, but also touched that she was worried Merlin could be cheating on him with Nimueh. Putting down the quill in his hand, he looks at his sister with a fond smile. "Yes, I'm sure. If there was more, Merlin would have told me, and besides, I would already know. With the connection we have, he can't keep secrets from me any more than I can keep secrets from him. Not that I would mind if Merlin decided to court Nimueh, but it's not like that. Besides, I have it on good authority that Nimueh and Percival have been spending time together lately."
Arthur smiles slyly, before picking up his quill again, and rereading the last sentences he wrote, so he can finish writing his letter to Bayard.
"With Percival? Are you sure?" Morgana asks curiously. "I wouldn't have though…"
She breaks off mid-sentence, and Arthur waits for her to continue, but when she doesn't, he rolls his eyes.
"You wouldn't have thought what?" he wants to know, finally looking up when Morgana doesn't answer this time either.
Morgana, however, seems to be frozen in mid-motion. Her mouth is slightly open, and she's staring on the opposite wall, her eyes dazed and unfocused.
"Morgana?" Arthur asks in alarm, but Morgana doesn't respond. Acting on instinct, Arthur sends out Merlin's magic to make sure Morgana is not under a spell, but he cannot detect anything out of the ordinary.
"Morgana, can you hear me?" he asks next, reaching out a hand to touch her arm.
Before Arthur reaches her, however, Morgana flinches. She turns her head toward him and blinks several times in rapid succession, but only after a long moment does she actually seem to see him.
"I'm sorry," she says quietly, sounding hollow and far away. "I just had a vision."
She draws her eyebrows together, as if concentrating on trying to hold on to the images she just saw.
"What was it about?" Arthur asks gently, but Morgana stands up from her chair.
"I have to go," she says courtly.
Arthur raises his eyebrows. "Are you all right?" he asks, concern soaking his voice. "What did you see?"
"I saw Mithian, but it doesn't make sense yet," Morgana replies, shaking her head. "I have to try to see the vision again. I'll tell you when I know more." She forces a brief smile, before walking to the door and leaving the room without another word.
Arthur stares at the door that Morgana has just closed behind her. All thoughts of the letter to Bayard are forgotten as he ponders what Morgana might have seen in her vision. The only thing that comes to his mind concerning Mithian is King Odin's attempt to occupy Nemeth in order to use Arthur's relationship with Mithian to set a trap for Arthur and finally succeed in killing him. That's only speculation, though. Things have already changed significantly in this time, so he will only know for sure, once Morgana manages to bring forth her vision once again.
It's early evening and the sun is just beginning to set as Arthur is discussing the correspondences he received from King Bayard and King Lot with the Knights of the Round Table in the council chamber. When the double doors suddenly open, Arthur looks up, and he sees Morgana entering a moment later. She has a hard look in her eyes, and her lips are pressed together in a thin line.
"It's Odin, he attacked Nemeth," she says as the guards close the doors behind her.
"What?" Leon asks in confusion, looking at Arthur across the table.
"Morgana had a vision this afternoon," Arthur explains. "She couldn't make sense of it at first, but she tried to bring it forth again."
Leon's eyes widen in alarm. "We have to do something," he says firmly, but Morgana, who has reached the round table, shakes her head.
"It's too late," she says in a strained voice. "It's already happened. Odin and his army have invaded Nemeth and occupied the castle. He has captured King Rodor and Princess Mithian, while Mithian's little brother Edric has escaped to Lord Cromwell with some of Rodor's most loyal knights. Odin didn't care about him, he just wanted Mithian and her father."
"What does Odin expect to achieve by that?" Gwaine asks, head tilted to the side, but before the others can make assumptions, Arthur answers that question.
"He wants revenge because I killed his son, and he's going to use Mithian to set a trap for me."
Arthur is already thinking about what they should do next, and for a moment there's silence in the council chamber.
"This has happened in the other time as well, hasn't it?" Lancelot concludes, and when Arthur looks at his knights, he sees that they are all watching him.
"Yes, it has," he confirms with a nod. "Odin will send Mithian to Camelot, probably accompanied by a guard, and she will tell me that Odin invaded Nemeth and although her brother is safe, and she and her father escaped, Rodor had been injured, and was unable to continue on after they crossed the border. She will tell me that her father is hiding in the tomb of King Loath and ask me to help her get him to safety before Odin's men can find him."
Arthur sees the knights exchange brief glances with each other, but he ignores it. It's one thing to know that someone knows the future, but quite another to predict it with so much detail.
"So, what do we do now?" Elyan finally asks.
Arthur shrugs. "We're going to help Mithian," he replies, as if that was obvious.
"Oh, you mean we're going to walk straight into Odin's trap, then," Gwaine says with a grin, and Arthur returns his grin, before nodding.
"Exactly."
Gwaine claps his hands together. "Good, then we've got that settled."
"Please tell me you have a plan that doesn't just involve walking right into Odin's trap," Leon says in a pleading tone, and Arthur rolls his eyes.
"Of course, I have a plan," he assures Leon with a dismissive gesture. "We'll trick Odin into thinking we're walking right into his trap, Merlin will overpower him, and then we'll free Mithian's father and get Odin to end the siege."
Leon takes a deep breath, looking doubtful. "Something tells me it won't be that easy."
"I never said it was going to be easy," Arthur replies. "Odin wants me dead, but if we're smart about it, there will be peace with Cornwall at the end of this. And I'll still be alive, of course. I've managed to do it once, and I'll manage to do it this time as well."
Leon isn't looking convinced yet, though. "Then let's hope there won't be any unforeseen incidents."
Percival, who is sitting next to him, snorts, rolling his eyes. "You worry too much, Leon," he says, before clapping a hand on Leon's shoulder.
Crossing his arms in front of his chest, Leon scowls. "Someone has to," he grumbles.
"Oh, Merlin and I worry more than enough, believe me," Arthur replies, chuckling softly. "But so far we've always succeeded, and that's not going to change now."
Merlin leaves the guest chamber in which they've settled Mithian after she arrived in Camelot earlier. Leon carried her up the stairs after she had fainted in the courtyard, and the guards had gone to fetch Gaius and Merlin immediately. Gaius is still with Mithian, giving her something to make her sleep through the rest of the night, while Leon already left to inform Arthur.
It's a few hours past midnight and Merlin heads to Arthur's room, the corridors dark except for a few candles on the walls illuminating his way.
Mithian, and a woman, who has introduced herself as Mithian's servant Kayla, rode into the courtyard about an hour ago. After Mithian had gotten off her horse, she had managed to say that she would be happy to see Leon before she collapsed, completely exhausted. When Leon had brought her to the guest chamber they had already prepared, Kayla refused to leave Mithian's side, and she had been quite insistent, so Gaius allowed her to stay with Mithian in the end.
When Merlin enters his and Arthur's room, he sees that in addition to Arthur and Leon, Gwaine, Percival, Elyan, and Lancelot are present as well. Leon and Elyan, who had been on duty, are the only ones wearing their chainmail and cloaks. Everyone else has only put on a shirt, pants, and boots when Leon had them alerted to Mithian's arrival.
"Is Mithian all right?" Arthur asks immediately. He's sitting at the table in the antechamber with his back to the empty fireplace, a worried expression in his eyes.
"Yes, she's just exhausted," Merlin replies. "Gaius has given her a sleeping potion, so she can rest. The effects should last until noon."
"Did she say anything else?" Leon asks from his chair at the table across from Arthur, but Merlin shakes his head.
"No, not really. She mumbled something, but she was too debilitated. I can tell you, however, that the woman who claims to be Mithian's servant has magic."
Arthur looks at him in concern, but Merlin raises his hands in a placating gesture. "She's only able to cast simple spells, enough to intimidate Mithian."
"Magic has always been allowed in Odin's kingdom," Gwaine points out. He's leaning against one of the pillars, arms crossed in front of his chest.
Arthur nods thoughtfully, because Odin choosing someone with magic as Mithian's guard makes perfect sense. Last time, Morgana had made sure that Mithian did as she was told by Odin, and even if Kayla does only have a fraction of Morgana's powers, it's certainly enough to keep Mithian in line.
Percival, who is sitting with his back to Merlin and has turned around to look at him, raises an eyebrow. "Is it a problem that she has magic?"
Merlin shakes his head with an amused smile. "No, it's not. We knew Odin would send someone to ensure Mithian's compliance, and even with possessing magic, Kayla won't notice when I freeze her in time later."
Leon frowns, looking at Arthur. "I thought you were going to deal with Mithian's guard only after she leads us to Odin."
"Yes, and that's still the plan," Arthur replies. "But I'm not going to let Mithian believe she's actually luring me into a trap to kill me any longer than absolutely necessary. I'm sure she can play her role convincingly."
"All right, then," Gwaine says, pushing off from the pillar he's been leaning against with his back. "Is there anything else we need to know? If there isn't, I'm going back to sleep now."
"Yes, there is one thing. No one touches Odin." Arthur looks at each of his knights in turn. "He stays alive and unharmed, no matter what he does. I can convince him to withdraw his army from Nemeth, and we need him as King of Cornwall if we want to have any chance of peace in Albion. He will pay for what he has done, but not with his life."
The knights nod, and for a moment there is silence, until Leon asks the question that Merlin knows everyone is thinking. "What will you do if Odin doesn't relent?"
It's not hard to figure out what Leon is getting at. He wants to know if Arthur will put Odin under a spell to make him compliant, just as he did with Lot, the Sarrum of Amata and Caerleon.
"I have to trust that I can get Odin to see reason. Otherwise, everything we are fighting for, the peace I want to bring to Albion, is doomed to fail," Arthur replies, looking straight at Leon. "There will always be those who will try to exploit others for their own gain, but people can change. I can't make everyone do what I want, because that wouldn't be peace, it would be tyranny – even if no one would notice the difference."
Leon presses his lips together, before lowering his gaze. "Forgive me, sire, I didn't mean to imply…" he begins, but Arthur shakes his head and interrupts him.
"No, Leon. It's your duty as my First Knight and my friend to question my decisions. Just because you have the power to do something doesn't mean you should do it just because it's the most convenient way." Arthur lets his gaze wander over each of his knights and friends, and Merlin senses how important it is to Arthur that they understand their role in this. "All of you, you are my conscience. You, the Knights of the Round Table, Merlin and Morgana, are here to make sure that I never abuse the power I have."
The warm afternoon sun falls through the high windows of the council chamber as Arthur asks Mithian to tell them why she arrived at the castle in the early morning hours, collapsing from exhaustion after dismounting her horse.
Mithian is only wearing a white shirt and dark trousers, the same clothes she wore when arriving at the castle this night, and her hair falls open around her shoulders. She sits on a chair opposite Arthur's and Morgana's thrones, and after hesitating for a moment, she starts speaking, her voice strained.
The Knights of the Round Table and Merlin are standing next to Arthur and Morgana, and Kayla has positioned herself right next to Mithian. She's slightly taller than Mithian, with long blond hair, tightly braided, and her presence ensures that Mithian tells Arthur and the others the story they have already expected. Finally, Mithian glances over at Kayla, before continuing in a pleading voice.
"My father is an old man. He can no longer fend for himself. I have no one else to turn to but you, Arthur. You are my only hope."
"Mithian, I understand how you feel, and I will do everything in my power to help you," Arthur promises, and Mithian tries to force a relieved smile, but she looks pained and a tear escapes her eyes, trickling down her cheek.
"Thank you, milord," she replies, her voice cracking, and Arthur nods.
"Now Merlin, please," he says to Merlin in his mind a moment later, and he feels the echo of Merlin's magic as he freezes Mithian's alleged servant Kayla in time.
"It's all right Mithian, you don't have to be afraid. We know about the trap Odin wants you to lure me into," Arthur continues, rising from his throne.
Mithian's eyes widen in horror, and she gets up from her chair, backing away from Kayla. Her head whips around to look at her, but when she sees that Kayla hasn't moved, and is staring straight ahead with a blank expression in her eyes, she turns back to Arthur.
"I don't understand," she says, her voice cracking midway through her words.
"Merlin froze her in time. She can't see or hear anything, and she won't remember anything, either," Arthur explains gently. "You don't have to be afraid of her anymore."
Mithian's gaze wanders to Merlin, and he gives her an encouraging smile.
Finally, Mithian shakes her head in disbelief. "How do you know of Odin's plan to kill you?"
"I had a vision in which I saw Odin attack Nemeth, but it was already too late to stop him," Morgana says with a sad look in her eyes. "We know he's holding your father captive, and that you didn't actually manage to escape."
Mithian presses her lips together, and Arthur steps in front of her, before putting his hands on her upper arms. "We're going to rescue your father," he says firmly. "Everything will be fine, I promise."
A choked sob escapes Mithian, and she throws her arms around Arthur's neck, clinging to him desperately. Arthur holds her close for several long moments, stroking her hair and letting her feel that she's not alone.
When he finally lets go of Mithian again, she manages a grateful smile, wiping away the tears from her eyes. Finally, she looks at Arthur with new determination in her eyes.
"What are we going to do now?"
A proud smile tugs at Arthur's lips. The Mithian he knew in the other time was a strong woman, and this Mithian standing in front of him is as well. Allowing himself a smirk, Arthur answers her question with a wink. "We will walk straight into Odin's trap."
That seems to be the last thing Mithian expected, because her eyes widen, and she starts shaking her head frantically. "You can't do that! He will kill you!"
In an attempt to calm her, Arthur puts his hands on Mithian's shoulders. "It will not come to that," he assured her. "I promise. We will make Odin believe that I'm playing right into his hands, and then we will rescue your father, and capture Odin, making him withdraw his army from Nemeth."
Mithian is not looking entirely convinced, but after a moment she manages a faint smile and a small nod. Arthur can't blame her for still being wary. Her father's life is on the line, and the fate of her entire kingdom as well. She's willing to trust him, though, and that has to be enough for the moment.
"You need to act as if everything is going the way Odin planned and continue to play your role," Arthur finally says, eyeing her closely. "Can you do that?"
"Yes, I can," Mithian replies in a firm voice, before glancing over at Kayla. "What's going to happen to her?"
"I'll take care of her when the time comes," Merlin replies. "But for now, we still need her. She probably has orders from Odin to inform him if everything is going according to plan."
Mithian nods thoughtfully, and after a moment, Arthur gently squeezes her shoulders to make her look at him again.
"I want you to be careful, Mithian," he says emphatically. "You must act normal, and I know you would have tried to find a way to warn us, but please, don't try anything like that. Don't give Kayla a reason to hurt you."
"I promise," Mithian replies, and Arthur can tell that it means a lot to her that he thought she would try to warn him at the risk of her own life.
Arthur gives her another encouraging smile, before letting her go off her shoulders. Finally, he walks back to his throne, sitting down again to take up the position from before Merlin had frozen Kayla in time. Mithian does the same and sits back down in her chair as well.
"Are you ready?" Arthur asks, and Mithian takes one deep breath, before nodding.
With a nod, Arthur indicates for Merlin to end the spell and Merlin's eyes shimmer golden as he releases Kayla again.
"Do you feel strong enough to take us to where your father is hiding?" Arthur asks, continuing where their conversation had left off.
Mithian tries to appear troubled again and nods. "Yes, I do."
Arthur offers her a small smile. "Good, then we will leave tomorrow at sunrise. You should try to get some more rest before then."
The dim light of dawn is falling through the windows in the corridor, when Arthur knocks on the door to Mithian's guest chamber. He's already wearing his chainmail and red cloak, ready to depart at sunrise, as they agreed upon yesterday. Merlin is standing next to Arthur, and he's clad in his red padded jacket and the blue kerchief again. There will be no deception this time, though, because even if Merlin isn't wearing his robes, Kayla will undoubtedly inform Odin that Merlin is accompanying Arthur and the knights. The clothes are, however, much more suited for riding.
As expected, Kayla is the one opening the door, and when she sees Arthur and Merlin, she lowers her eyes and bows. "Good morning, sire, milord."
"Good morning, I would like to speak with Princess Mithian. We will be leaving soon," Arthur says.
"Of course, sire," Kayla replies with a nod, before stepping aside to let Arthur and Merlin enter.
There are only a few candles burning in the room, and Arthur takes a moment to spot Mithian standing up from the chair in front of the small dressing table. She's fully dressed in her simple white shirt and trousers again, and her black traveling cloak is laid out on the bed.
"Good morning, milords," she greets them with a bow, and Arthur looks at her with a polite smile.
"Are you feeling stronger this morning?"
Mithian nods and forces a smile on her lips. "Yes, thanks to the potion your Court Physician gave me."
"I'm glad to hear that," Arthur replies. "Gaius will not be accompanying us, but I can assure you that Merlin will take good care of your father once we reach him."
Mithian nods again, and Arthur glances at Merlin, who has just waited for this command and freezes Kayla in time.
"It's just us now," Merlin informs Mithian with a smile, and she takes a deep breath.
After walking over to her, Arthur puts his hands on Mithian's arms as he already did yesterday, giving her strength through his touch and showing her that she's not alone in this.
"Are you all right?" he asks gently as he looks at her closely. Her skin is pale, and there are dark circles under her eyes. Arthur assumes she didn't sleep much last night.
Mithian, however, manages a brave smile. "I'm fine," she replies. "You don't have to worry about me."
"Did anything else happen yesterday?" Merlin wants to know, and Mithian turns her head toward him, nodding.
"Yes, Kayla sent a raven with a message to Odin, informing him that everything is going according to plan. He will be expecting us."
"Good, that's exactly what we want," Arthur says, allowing himself a satisfied smile, but Mithian presses her lips together, looking at the floor.
Arthur raises a hand and gently cups her face. "What's wrong? Whatever it is, you can tell me."
"I feel guilty," Mithian confesses in a weak voice, still not meeting Arthur's eyes. "When I came to Camelot, I was prepared to lie to you and lure you into a trap…" she says, but Arthur shakes his head and interrupts her.
"No, Mithian. You are not to blame. This is Odin's doing. You had no other choice but to comply to protect your father. I would have done the same."
Mithian stays silent, but she nods weakly, and Arthur steps forward to wrap his arms around her. She buries her face against Arthur's chest, leaning into the comfort of the touch Arthur is offering, and after a moment he feels her taking a deep, shaky breath.
When Arthur releases her again, Mithian steps backward, before managing a smile.
Finally, Merlin walks over to Kayla, stopping in front of her. "Let's see what Odin has planned for us then."
He raises his hands, holding his palms on either side of Kayla's head without touching her. For a moment he doesn't move, and when he's done reading Kayla's mind, he lowers his hands and steps back.
"Odin ordered her to poison me just before we reach Loath's tomb," Merlin says, and when Mithian inhales sharply at that, Merlin looks at her with a grin. "Don't worry. I won't let myself be poisoned. I promise," he says, wiggling his eyebrows.
The corners of Mithian's mouth twitch slightly, but she doesn't look fully convinced yet. Arthur strokes her arm again, and Mithian turns her head toward him.
"Everything will be fine," he assures her, and when Mithian nods, she looks a bit more confident than before.
Arthur lowers his hand again. "Are you ready?" he asks, and Mithian takes another deep breath, before nodding.
Merlin waits until they have all returned to their previous positions in the room, then his eyes light up golden, and he releases Kayla from the spell.
"We will wait for you in the courtyard," Arthur says. "Everything has already been prepared for our departure."
"We will be with you shortly," Mithian replies, and Arthur nods, giving her one last look, before leaving the room with Merlin.
Outside in the corridor, they turn left, heading down to the courtyard as the day slowly turns brighter.
Arthur is still thinking about Mithian, and how well she's playing her role. He expected nothing less, though.
"Mithian is incredibly strong, isn't she?" he finally says as he and Merlin turn a corner.
"Yes, she is," Merlin replies. "And she will make a wonderful queen."
A small, pleased smile appears on Arthur's lips. "Yes, she will."
"And that's why you should make her your queen as soon as possible."
Frowning, Arthur stops in the middle of the corridor, turning his head to look at Merlin. "I thought we agreed to wait?"
Merlin stopped as well, and he meets Arthur's gaze with a calm expression in his eyes. "Considering how easy it was for Odin to occupy Nemeth, Rodor is not as strong as he once was, and being a woman and still so young, Mithian will not be able to rule the kingdom. Nemeth is not Gwynedd. But if you marry Mithian now, Rodor can continue his rule with Camelot's support until his son Edric is old enough to take the throne. In Nemeth, he can become king at sixteen, and that's only four years from now."
Merlin lifts an eyebrow as if daring Arthur to contradict him, but Arthur doesn't, because everything Merlin just said is absolutely right. Taking a deep breath, Arthur brushes his mind against Merlin's, and in response Merlin passes a feeling of acceptance and affection through their bond. Arthur smiles warmly at him, before huffing a small laugh.
"When did you become so good at politics?"
Merlin snorts. "I've always been good at politics, you just never listened to me," he replies flatly.
"Sometimes I listened to you," Arthur replies, and Merlin rolls his eyes.
"All right. Sometimes you actually did listen to me, that's true. And this time you'll listen to me as well, because I'm not telling you anything you don't already know yourself."
"No, you don't," Arthur confirms. "Marrying Mithian would strengthen Rodor's position and ensure Camelot Nemeth's continued support. But there are other ways to achieve that, too."
Merlin tilts his head. "None of them are as good as a marriage, and since you plan to marry Mithian anyway, it would be foolish not to do it now."
Arthur takes a deep breath through his nose. It's not as if he doesn't want to marry Mithian, he's just not sure if he's ready for the next great change yet. He and Merlin had thought they would have more time, but it would be foolish to let this opportunity pass. Arthur must think of his kingdom and the fate of all of Albion, and he's grateful that Merlin will be right by his side.
"Very well, then," Arthur finally says. "As soon as we have made peace with Odin, I will ask King Rodor for his daughter's hand in marriage."
After spending the whole day in the saddle, everyone's relieved when Arthur stops his horse at dawn, announcing that they are going to make camp for the night. They are not far from the border to Nemeth, and Arthur has chosen the same ruins on the edge of the Forest of Gedref as he did in the other time. The collapsed walls and stones are located in a clearing near a small stream, and they are a strategically good place to set up camp. Even if they don't have to expect an attack from Odin, Arthur doesn't want to take any chances.
While Gwaine and Percival set up camp, Elyan and Galahad take care of the horses, and Merlin starts a small fire. By the time Arthur and Lancelot return from scouting the nearby forest, it's already almost dark and dinner is ready. Merlin has prepared a stew of dried meat and vegetables, and everyone is grateful for the warm meal as night falls, and the air turns chilly. Summer hasn't yet fully arrived in Camelot, and Merlin can see Mithian pulling her cloak tighter around her shoulders. She's sitting on the other side of the fire, clutching the small wooden bowl of warm stew in her hands. Arthur seems to notice as well, because after a moment, he stands up and takes a blanket from his bedroll to place it over Mithian's shoulders. She raises her head in surprise as she feels the weight of the blanket, but when she spots Arthur, she smiles gratefully. Arthur returns the smile, before sitting back down on one of the fallen boulders around the fire. No one is really in the mood for conversation, and after they have eaten the stew, they go to sleep to be rested for the next day.
Merlin jerks awake at a soft touch on his shoulder. Opening his eyes, he sees Percival next to him in the pale light.
"It's time," Percival says, and after Merlin gives a brief nod, Percival returns to the task of packing up his bedroll.
Taking a quick look around their small camp, Merlin notices that the others are already on their feet. He sees Arthur sitting next to Mithian on one of the boulders talking quietly with her, while Elyan and Lancelot are preparing the horses for their departure.
Merlin flips back his blanket and rubs his eyes briefly, before getting up as well. He spots Kayla, who is rolling up her blankets a short distance away from Mithian and Arthur, watching their conversation intently without trying to be too suspicious. Arthur's eyes flicker up to meet Merlin's, and he gives a barely perceptible nod, before returning his attention to Mithian. Merlin knows what this means. It's time to take care of Kayla.
Standing up from his bedroll, Merlin stretches his arms and shoulders. Then he reaches for his water hose and turns to Percival. "I'm going to go down to the stream to fill up my water hose. Should I take yours with me, too?"
Percival shakes his head. "No, mine is still almost full. Do you want me to go with you?"
"No, thanks. I'll be fine on my own," Merlin replies with a grin, before heading through the trees in the direction of the small stream.
It's not far from their camp, down a small hollow, and after reaching it, Merlin squats down on the rocky shore. As he dips his hose into the water, he hears footsteps on the forest ground behind him, and after turning abound, he spots Kayla approaching him. She's carrying a water hose, as well, presumably Mithian's.
"You could have said something. I would have taken your water hose with me," Merlin says as he stands back up.
Kayla has stopped a few feet away from him, looking uncertain, but she manages a faint smile. Merlin hangs the water hose on his belt, before making the decision for her, and freezing the young woman in mid-motion with a single thought. Kayla's eyes widen, when she realizes that she can't move anymore, except for blinking and breathing.
Merlin crosses the distance between them, stopping in front of her.
"We know you're not Mithian's servant, and that Odin sent you to make sure Mithian doesn't do anything stupid, like warn Arthur that he's walking right into a trap, for example," Merlin says, and Kayla blinks frantically, her breathing becoming faster. "And you did your job very well," Merlin admits. "Your only mistake was to think that you could fool me."
Even though Kayla doesn't so much as flinch, Merlin sees the fear in her eyes, and despite the fact that she tried to lure Arthur into a trap, so Odin could kill him, Merlin feels sorry for her.
"You don't have to be afraid. I'm not going to kill you. I won't even hurt you," Merlin promises, his voice softening. "And if everything goes according to plan, which I assume it will, Odin won't be harmed either."
Merlin reaches into the small pouch on his belt, pulling out a golden locket with a red gem embedded in the center. He wraps the chain around his hand, before using his other hand to pull a small knife from a sheath on his belt.
"This will only sting a little," he says, before reaching for Kayla's hand and pricking her index finger with the tip of the blade. He mumbles the words that activate the spell, and the gem inside the locket begins to shimmer softly. After coating the surface with Kayla's blood, the red liquid is drawn into the crystal, and for a moment the stone turns black, before returning to its original red color.
Merlin hangs the chain around his neck, sliding the locket under the fabric of his clothes. He sees Kayla's eyes widen again as he transforms into a perfect image of her. Merlin, however, pays no further attention to Kayla, and instead retrieves the second locket from his pocket. After cleaning the blade of the knife with a spell, he pricks his own index finger, silently reciting the spell, before coating the shimmering blue gem in the center of the locket with his own blood. After the gem has returned to its original color, Merlin slips the chain over Kayla's neck and slides the locket under her cloak and beneath her dress.
The outline of Kayla's figure blurs before Merlin's eyes, and a moment later he finds himself face to face with an exact copy of himself. It's strange to look at himself that way, and Merlin shakes his head to block out the disturbing sight in front of him, before putting the knife away again.
"All right, then. When you wake up, there will be peace between Nemeth, Cornwall, and Camelot," he says in Kayla's voice, before taking the water hose from Kayla's hand to hang it on his belt next to his own water hose. Finally, with a flick of his wrist in front of Kayla's face, her eyes close as she falls into a deep sleep and her legs buckle. Merlin catches her and lifts her into his arms, before making his way back to the camp.
Even though Merlin has made sure Odin's scouts are following at a safe distance, Arthur doesn't want to take any chances. If anyone should come close enough to spot Gwaine, Galahad, and Kayla, while Merlin, Arthur, Mithian and the others ride to the tomb of King Loath, Odin should think that everything has gone according to plan and that Arthur has left two of Camelot's knights to guard his poisoned Court Sorcerer, while he and Mithian continue on to find Rodor before anyone else can.
When Merlin returns to their little camp, and the knights see Kayla carrying an unconscious Merlin in her arms, they reach for their swords, and Merlin can't help but roll his eyes.
"Don't worry, it's me," he says, looking at them with an amused smile. "You guys should really start to have a little more confidence in my abilities."
They relax again, and Arthur just snorts as they get ready to leave. Merlin sits the real Kayla down against one of the half-collapsed walls, and Gwaine and Galahad join him a moment later.
"She won't wake up. I've made sure of that with a spell," he promises them.
Gwaine nods, before letting his gaze sweep over Merlin in Kayla's form and finally giving a shrug.
"This illusion isn't as pretty as Gwen's illusion was, but it's not bad either."
Merlin rolls his eyes, but he can't prevent his lips from twitching slightly. Gwaine grins, and he and Galahad sit down on a few rocks close to Kayla, while Merlin and the others head to their horses.
After reaching Kayla's bay mare, Merlin hands the water hose he took from Kayla to Mithian, who stares at him for a long moment, before shaking her head in bewilderment.
"This is really strange," she finally says quietly.
Merlin grins in response. "Just imagine what it's like for me," he says, casting a meaningful glance at Kayla's breasts, clearly visible under the cloak and the blue shirt Kayla is wearing.
A nervous laugh escapes Mithian before she can prevent it, and she hastily claps a hand over her mouth.
Merlin smiles at her encouragingly. "Everything will be fine," he promises softly.
Mithian takes a deep breath, before managing a nod. Finally, she and Merlin mount their horses, and when the others have climbed into the saddle as well, they ride in the direction of King Loath's tomb.
After crossing the border into Nemeth, Mithian rides ahead, leading them east through a dense forest. Merlin, who's sitting on Kayla's horse, follows close behind her, and after a while he feels Arthur bushing his mind through their connection.
"Are Odin's men watching us?"
Merlin closes his eyes for a moment, sending out his magic, and just as he expected, he finds several scouts following them at a distance.
"Mhm. Just like we want them to," Merlin replies, suppressing the urge to turn his head and look at Arthur.
"Good, keep an eye on them. I have a bad feeling," Arthur says grimly.
Merlin reaches through their bond with a confident nudge. "It'll be alright. I'll see to that. Just like I did the last time."
From the corner of his eye, Merlin sees Arthur looking at him from the side, before he thinks better of it. Gaze wandering over the trees, Arthur makes it look like he's merely keeping an eye on their surroundings, while Merlin can feel Arthur's confusion through their connection.
"Do you remember that most favorable earthquake that distracted Odin's men at just the right time?" Merlin asks with a smirk. "That was me."
"Of course, it was," Arthur replies, shaking his head slightly. "You know, you'd think that such revelations wouldn't surprise me anymore, but they still do."
"Well, you know me. I'm always good for a surprise."
Arthur snorts softly. "Just remember not to reveal yourself until Odin shows up."
"I won't, but if any of Odin's men get too close to you, Mithian, or Percival, I reserve the right to incapacitate them with a spell."
Even though Merlin can't see it, he can literally feel Arthur rolling his eyes.
"Percival and I can take care of ourselves, but if it makes you happy, you're welcome to make some of our attackers trip over their own feet. Just remember that they are supposed to overpower us in the end."
It isn't long after that before they reach the entrance to the tomb of King Loath. It's located inside a rock formation in the forest, and the entrance into the tunnels is just a small opening in the cliff. To mark the location, a multilateral stone pavilion with a peaked roof has been built on top of the cliff, but the stone has turned dark over time and the whole structure is heavily overgrown with ivy and other vines.
They stop their horses a short distance from the entrance to the tomb, and Arthur looks around warily before turning to Mithian.
"Is that it?" he asks, even though he knows perfectly well that they have arrived at their destination.
Mithian nods, just as they agreed upon, and continues to play her part. "Yes, we should find my father inside."
"All right, let's go," Arthur says. "Lancelot, Elyan, you keep watch. Percival, you come with me."
He dismounts from his stallion Hengroen and the others get off their horses as well. While Elyan and Lancelot draw their swords to guard the entrance to the tomb, Percival takes a torch from his saddlebag and hands it to Mithian. After lighting the torch with a flint, Mithian goes ahead into the tomb. Merlin walks close behind her, while Arthur and Percival follow them. A narrow passage leads them deeper into the tunnel, and finally they reach the burial chamber.
Mithian puts her torch into a scone on the wall, before stopping near the entrance. Merlin stays close to her, while Percival and Arthur walk past them into the chamber. After looking at the sarcophagus in the center of the otherwise empty room, Arthur turns around to Mithian with a confused expression on his face.
"I don't understand, where is your father?"
"He's not here," Mithian replies in a weak voice, and Arthur's eyebrows furrow.
"Then where is he?"
"Arthur, I…" Mithian begins haltingly, but she breaks off completely when footsteps sound on the stone floor coming toward them.
Arthur indicates for Mithian to stay back with a quick glance, and a moment later several armed men in chainmail and leather armor enter the chamber, their swords and spears raised. Arthur remains motionless for a moment, as if unable to believe that Mithian has lured him into a trap, before finally drawing Excalibur and preparing to engage. Percival also draws his sword and after exchanging a brief look with Arthur, they attack Odin's men.
Merlin makes sure that Mithian is safe with her back presses to the wall the way they discussed beforehand, and he stays close to her just in case. The chamber is small, and the stone sarcophagus in the center does not provide Arthur and Percival with much room to fight off their attackers. They are also outnumbered five to one, so it doesn't take long before Arthur's and Percival's half-hearted attempts at defending themselves are put to an end. Three of the men each grab Arthur and Percival by the arms, and two more take their swords from them, while the remaining surround them with spears pointed forward.
Arthur has gritted his teeth, but he stops resisting as the men push him and Percival to their knees. A moment later, Odin enters the chamber with two more of his men and Mithian's father, King Rodor. Rodor immediately walks to his daughter, and Mithian meets him halfway, throwing her arms around him. Odin doesn't spare them a single glance; his eyes are fixed on Arthur.
"Arthur Pendragon. At last," he says triumphantly. "I have waited many years for this moment. You killed my son. You took what was most precious to me, and now you will pay the forfeit." His lips curl into a sneer, before he turns around, his gaze searching for Kayla.
Merlin takes a step forward.
"Kayla," Odin says approvingly. "You did well. Just like I knew you would."
"Thank you," Merlin replies. "But I'm not Kayla."
Reaching for his magic, Merlin puts Odin's men to sleep, and a moment later they crumple to the ground.
Odin's eyes widen in disbelief, but before he can react, the sword in his hand turns to dust. He flinches, as if he's been hit, taking a step backward.
Merlin pulls the golden locket out of his shirt, becoming himself again, while Percival and Arthur stand up from where they've been kneeling on the ground. Odin stares at Merlin for a long moment, before he realizes that he's caught in his own trap. Finally, he looks back at Arthur, his jaw set.
Arthur picks up Excalibur from the ground, before reaching for the sword of one of Odin's men, and throwing the other sword at Odin's feet. The sound of the blade striking the stone echoes loudly through the chamber, before there's silence once more.
"Let's settle this, once and for all," Arthur says. "Just you and me."
Odin bares his teeth, before picking up the sword from the ground and attacking Arthur in the same motion. Arthur blocks Odin's swings, letting him set the pace, and after only a few blows it becomes clear that Arthur is the superior fighter. Odin doesn't back off, though. With hatred blazing in his eyes, he attacks Arthur again and again. Finally, Arthur faints a block, then twists at the last instant, before delivering a kick to the back of Odin's knee that sends him to the ground. Desperately, Odin swings at Arthur again, but Arthur knocks the sword out of his hand a moment later, and puts the tip of Excalibur to Odin's throat.
Odin is breathing hard, but when Arthur makes no move to kill him, he glares at him.
"Go on, finish it and be done."
Arthur casts him a long look, shaking his head. "And what then? Your people will seek revenge. A war without an end."
"There is no other way," Odin replies through clenched teeth.
"There is always another way!" Arthur says emphatically. "In return for your life, you will restore Rodor to the throne of Nemeth and withdraw your army."
Odin snorts. "Even if I agree to that, it solves nothing. What about us, Pendragon?" he asks mockingly.
"A truce. Binding our kingdoms to peace."
"Never," Odin snarls.
Arthur shakes his head. "Is this what you want? To die here, knowing you condemn this land to war?" he demands, looking straight at the other king. "Odin, you cannot let it end like this. The blood will never wash off."
"You killed my son," Odin replies grimly.
"He challenged me to a duel," Arthur clarifies, before shaking his head. "I had no quarrel with him and I asked him to withdraw, but he refused. I didn't want to kill him, but he gave me no other choice. I wanted to spare him, but he reached for his sword again and attacked me. I defended myself, and he was dead before I knew what had happened." Arthur casts Odin a long look, but the other king has his lips pressed together tightly, staring at the ground. "We were hardly more than boys back then, desperate to prove ourselves in the eyes of our fathers. I'm sure your son wouldn't have wanted you to wage war in his name. Let us end this today."
Arthur lowers Excalibur, before holding out a hand for Odin to take. Odin looks up at him, and Merlin can see Odin struggling with himself. He prepares himself to stop time at any moment to get Odin to make peace with Camelot if that's what it takes, but he has faith in Arthur, and so he waits.
Several long moments pass, but then Odin finally nods. "So be it," he says quietly, before grasping Arthur's hand. "A truce it is."
Arthur pulls Odin to his feet, and Merlin exhales slowly. He can see how hard this is for Odin, but the King of Cornwall grits his teeth, putting the good of his kingdom above his own desire for revenge, and finally, he gives Arthur a curt nod.
King Odin's gaze sweeps over the peace treaty on the table one last time, the ink on the parchment barely dry yet.
For two days they have been negotiating behind closed doors in Rodor's castle in Nemeth after Odin withdrew his army, and more than once it had looked like war might be a possibility after all.
After a long moment, Odin takes the white quill from the inkwell, leaning forward and writing his name at the end of the document. He's the last of the three to sign the treaty, and after putting the quill on the table, Odin straightens up again, looking first at Arthur and then at Rodor.
"Arthur, Rodor. I will take my leave now." With a curt nod, Odin turns around and leaves the hall without looking back.
Arthur watches him go, but despite Odin's obvious disdain for Rodor, Arthur has no doubt that the peace treaty will hold between Cornwall and Nemeth as well. Neither side has emerged victorious from this conflict, but they are both able to save face. Odin has had to cede a considerable strip of land to Nemeth as compensation for the unprovoked attack, but the territory includes only forest and grassland without any villages.
When the door closes behind Odin, Rodor remains standing next to the table for a moment, before walking around it and sitting down in a chair. His movements are slow, as if each step takes effort. For a long moment, he simply looks at Arthur, before a weary smile comes to his lips.
"You've saved my life, my son, my daughter, and my entire kingdom. What can I ever offer you in return?"
Arthur shakes his head. "I expect nothing in return from you, King Rodor," he replies. "I'm asking for your forgiveness, though."
Rodor raises an eyebrow questioningly, and Arthur explains. "The attack on your kingdom only happened because you are an ally of Camelot, and because Odin thought he could use Princess Mithian to take his revenge on me."
"It has never been a burden to be an ally of Camelot," Rodor says, his tone firm. "And it never will be."
Arthur nods gratefully, and Rodor returns the nod, before taking a deep breath and continuing. "And I would ask your forgiveness for Odin nearly succeeding with his plan to kill you."
"I'm sure your men fought bravely," Arthur replies earnestly.
Rodor gives a thoughtful nod. "They did," he says, holding Arthur's gaze for a long moment, before a faint smile curves his lips. "But let's face the facts. I'm an old man, and my kingdom is not as strong as it once was. My son is not yet old enough to ascend the throne, and though my daughter has become a strong woman, I know that the noble families of Nemeth would not give her the support she needs to rule the land". He tilts his head to the side, studying Arthur intently. "During our visit to Camelot for the tournament this spring, I got the impression that you are very fond of my daughter."
Arthur is not surprised that Rodor brings up the possibility of a marriage between Mithian and Arthur. Rodor's an intelligent man, and he knows that his days as King of Nemeth are numbered.
"Princess Mithian is a beautiful young woman, and I couldn't help but notice that she has a good heart and a sharp mind," Arthur replies politely.
"Flattery is not necessary, though what you say is certainly true," Rodor says with a little half-smile. "I love my daughter with all my heart, and you know what I am offering, don't you?"
Arthur nods. "Yes, I do. And I would be honored to marry Mithian. As my queen, I would respect and cherish her."
Rodor casts Arthur a long look, then he sighs. "As King of Nemeth, I must think of the benefits such a marriage will have for my kingdom, but as a father, I want to know that you will treat my daughter the way she deserves."
"Have I given you reason to question my word when I promise you that I will honor Mithian as my wife?" Arthur asks, but he already suspects where Rodor is going with this.
"I know you are a man of your word, Arthur Pendragon. But I have seen you and your Court Sorcerer together," Rodor says, and the look he gives Arthur is a meaningful one. "Forgive me for putting it so bluntly, but I'm a sentimental old fool who loves his daughter more than his kingdom."
"You are a wise man, King Rodor, and I will not insult you by pretending not to know what you are talking about or denying it. But I swear to you, on my life and honor, that I will respect and cherish your daughter as my wife and as my queen as long as we both shall live. I promise you that I will always be honest with her about my feelings," Arthur answers honestly. "Mithian is an extraordinary woman, and it's true that I have become fond of her in the short time we have known each other. That being said, marrying me must be her decision."
Rodor nods thoughtfully, before raising an eyebrow. "Would you allow my daughter the same freedoms you claim for yourself?"
Arthur knows what Rodor means by this question. He wants to know if Arthur is going to allow Mithian to share her bed with someone else, should she fall in love with someone other than Arthur.
"Yes, of course," Arthur replies. "On the condition that she's honest with me as well, and that there will be no reason to question Camelot's line of succession."
Rodor has already proven that he's no fool, just a father who wants the best for his daughter, so Arthur is certain that Rodor knows what he's getting at.
He's proven right, when Rodor nods. "Considering the circumstances, that's only reasonable. I will speak to Mithian about the offer I made and the response you gave me. I'll let you know what she decides."
Arthur knows the conversation is over, and he respects Rodor's wish to talk to his daughter alone. After that, it will be up to Mithian to decide if she wants to marry Arthur and become his queen, and Arthur will give her as much time to think about that as she needs.
"Thank you, King Rodor," Arthur says, inclining his head in a small bow, before turning and leaving the hall.
Arthur looks up, when a soft knock sounds at the door. He has just opened the strings of his shirt, and was about to pull it over his head, but now he pauses, brows furrowing.
It's already well past midnight, and he returned to his own room only a moment prior. When he had walked down the corridor from the guest chamber assigned to Merlin, the entire castle had been silent, so he assumed everyone had already gone to bed.
Arthur wonders if he might have only imagined the sound, but after a moment there is another soft knock. Leaving his shirt on, Arthur crosses the room, before opening the door. He has only ignited a small candle on the bedside table, but it's enough for his eyes to recognize Mithian standing outside in the dim light of the corridor.
"Mithian?" Arthur asks, genuinely surprised to see her in front of his door in the middle of the night. She's wearing a dark green robe that she has pulled over a white nightgown, and her hair is hanging loose around her shoulders.
When she sees Arthur, she smiles a bit sheepishly. "I know it's late, but I couldn't sleep, and I wanted to talk to you."
Arthur stares at her for a moment, before it occurs to him to answer. "It's all right. I just got back to my room."
Mithian simply looks at him for a moment, before raising her eyebrows. "May I come in?"
"Oh, yes, of course," Arthur replies awkwardly, hastily stepping aside to let her enter.
Mithian walks past him, and Arthur closes the door behind her. Turning around, he sees that Mithian has stopped in the middle of the room and is looking at him. Not quite sure what to do now, Arthur pauses as well, and for a moment they just look at each other.
Finally, Mithian smiles again, and Arthur can see that she is trying to look confident.
"My father came to see me earlier, and he told me that he offered you my hand in marriage."
Arthur clears his throat, before answering. "Yes, he did. And I told him that I would count myself lucky to take you as my wife, but the decision has to be yours."
"Why don't we sit down?" Mithian suggests after a moment, smile still in place. When Arthur nods, Mithian walks over to the bed and sits down on the mattress.
Arthur follows her, before taking a seat on the other side of the bed. Looking at her curiously, he decides to let her start the conversation, because she's the one who came to his room and he has no idea what to say anyway. There's silence between them for a moment, Mithian's gaze fixated on the blue blanket on the bed, and her long, dark brown hair is falling around her shoulders in soft waves.
"I always knew I would marry for the good of my kingdom," she finally says softly, before looking up. "I know my father loves me very much, but the best he could do was hope that I could find happiness despite a political marriage." A thin smile appears on her lips. "Odin's attack on Nemeth has weakened my father's position. My brother is not yet old enough to ascend the throne, and I know that the noble families of Nemeth would not accept me as their queen. A marriage is the only option to strengthen the kingdom."
Arthur thinks he understands what she's trying to tell him, and looks at her with an understanding smile. "We could find another way, Mithian. Nemeth and Camelot are allies, and I promise you that I will do everything I can to support your father without you having to marry me in return."
Mithian, however, shakes his head. "No, Arthur. That's very generous of you, but I wasn't trying to break my rejection to you gently." She smiles warmly as she sees Arthur's confused expression. "What I meant to say is that, although I realized I would be marrying for political reasons, I have always hoped that I could marry for love as well despite my obligation to my kingdom." She hesitates briefly, but Arthur doesn't interrupt her, and finally Mithian continues. "We haven't known each other for very long, but you are an amazing person. You have a good heart, and the more I get to know you, the more I think I could love you, Artur Pendragon. So, what I am actually trying to say is that I will marry you and become your wife and your queen."
"Are you sure?" Arthur asks gently, but firmly. "I like you a lot, and I think I could fall in love with you as well. I promise you that I will cherish you as my wife and respect you as my queen for as long as we live, but nonetheless, my heart will always belong to Merlin as well."
"I know," Mithian replies with a knowing smile. "And I knew it even before my father told me today. Aside from the fact that it's not hard to see how much you mean to each other, and that it's probably the worst kept secret in all of Camelot, your sister asked me to come to her chamber after the tournament this spring, and she told me what I'd be getting myself into if the subject of a marriage between me and you ever came up," Mithian confesses.
Arthur laughs softly, shaking his head. He should have guessed that Morgana would do something like that.
"She loves you very much," Mithian says, eyeing Arthur cautiously. "And she wants only the best for you and your kingdom."
"I know that," Arthur replies with a warm smile. "And I'm not surprised she talked to you."
They share an amused look, until Arthur's expression becomes sober again. "Are you sure you can accept that Merlin will be a part of our life like that?"
Mithian nods. "Yes, I am. I like Merlin, a lot. There's something about him that you just have to like," she says with a grin, shrugging vaguely.
"That's true," Arthur confirms, a fond smile coming to his lips. "And he likes you, too, just so you know."
Arthur gives her a meaningful look, and when she realizes what he's trying to say, Mithian's face turns pink, and she ducks his head.
"Um, I don't know what to say to that," she finally admits sheepishly.
"You don't have to say anything," Arthur replies. "I just wanted you to know. And I want you to know that you have my permission to be happy if you fall in love with someone else, as long as you are honest and respectful with me about it."
Mithian nods, a serious expression on her face. "I will, I give you my word on that."
Arthur nods gratefully, before taking a deep breath. "Very well, then. I suppose your father will announce our marriage at the feast tomorrow night."
Mithian nods. "Yes, he will."
Arthur gives another nod, before looking at her for a long moment, until Mithian's lips quirk.
"I think I should go back to my chamber now."
Arthur immediately gets up from the bed. "Yes, of course," he says, and after Mithian has stood up as well, he walks her to the door.
"I'll see you tomorrow then," she says as they stop at the door.
"Yes, tomorrow," Arthur replies, before inclining his head politely. "I wish you a good night."
"Thank you. I wish you a good night as well." Smiling at Arthur one last time, Mithian opens the door and leaves the room.
Arthur remains standing in front of the closed door for a long moment. Finally, he walks back to the bed, pulling his shirt over his head. He tosses it carelessly onto the chest at the foot of the bed, before slipping off his boots, and pulling back the covers. When he lies down, he uses a bit of magic to extinguish the small candle on the table next to the bed. The room becomes dark, except for the soft moonlight falling through a window, and Arthur clasps his hands behind his head, thinking about all that Mithian has just told him.