Not Beta'd we do this raw ;)
So wow...first half is the fluffiest of fluffs
Second half we're back to the main plot with a bang
Probably the most intense I've ever written so far.
Curious if I did a good job or not
1 month later
"I'm so glad we made it to Venice just in time before carnevale ends, if you guys have never once been here to participate in its festivities…what's wrong with you? You have to experience this at least once in your lives, get to it people!" Morgana was walking the streets of Venice with her phone in hand vlogging away her thoughts. On her face was a red masquerade mask fit with red feathers and those of peacocks on top.
After their little race across the Egyptian desert…which Merlin cheated to win of course, she got her win back by putting a scorpion in his bath later that night…
Not too much damage of course, she can't have him losing anything precious…she still uses it!
Merlin suggested they end their holiday in the place that began their new lives, Italy. Specifically in this case Venice.
She was very receptive to the idea, thinking it's been a while since they've been to the city that brought them great joy…and perhaps the masters of parties? Debatable she supposed.
"So anyway, I've been dying to try some of the finest delicacies they have here and you know maybe I'll swipe something for Billy while I'm looking."
Morgana stopped by a stand where a woman with a mask of her own, frying up frittelle.
"Salve Signorina Maschera! Cosa posso fare per lei?" "Hello Miss Mask! What can I do for you?"
Morgana appreciated that the customs of the Venetian Carnival still persisted even today, giving the vendor a smile as she aimed her phone at all the delicious treats on display. It was annoying when Napoleon and then Austria caused the entire thing to end for nearly 2 centuries.
"Ciao buonasera Signora Maschera. Puoi per favore darmi due frittelle di mele e un po' di castagnole?" "Hi good evening Lady Mask. Can you please give me two apple fritters and a little bit of dough balls?"
The lovely vendor loved her mask so much she decided to give her some on the house…but she spent enough time with Merlin to sneak her a little something when she wasn't looking.
She hopes she doesn't faint at the sight of €500…
"Oh my god guys this smells amazing! I just wanna eat them all up right now and trust me I could eat a cow if I put my mind to it." Morgana could see her fans were giving her suggestions on what more to get, she'll have to remember them for next time.
"But that would be a bit mean for my boo…he deserves the small bits at least, don't you think?"
"So now I'm off to our little flat we have here in Venice and then meet Billy near the bridge becauuusssseee he actually booked us a private gondola ride for tonight…and damn does that get me excited!"
"So for now cya later and I'll be sure to upload parts of it later on my IG, ciao ciao mwah!" Blowing a smooch goodbye, she saved the livestream footage on her device to add it to a much larger video package later on. Somehow, she's gotta get Merlin to do a video with her. It'd be a crime not to take advantage of their chemistry and show it off to the world.
After the unification of Italy in the late 19th century, both Morgana and Merlin knew they just had to find a way to secure a permanent place in the very region where they got engaged. So when the opportunity to buy an entire flat building near the canal presented itself, they took it immediately. They'd be fools not to.
As she got to their flat, she made certain to fix her hair up in a French-twist ponytail. Polishing her mask once more before she left to where Merlin was waiting for her, bringing along their tasty treats.
As she got close to Rialto Bridge, she saw Merlin nearby…wearing a black tuxedo with a red bow on. He wore a black and gold jester mask, which is ironic because his jokes hardly landed at times but she digresses. The gondola is what caught her breath however. It was cushioned with red and purple pillows, the floor littered with tulips and Astrantia petals.
"Signifying everlasting love, strength and courage." Morgana has never been the gushy romantic type…but she still has feelings, Merlin making an effort like this really warms her greatly.
"No gondolier though, wonder what that's all about?"
Oh well not like she cares, better for them if they're alone.
"If you're wondering how I got this little boat all to ourselves…well you know how mortals can be swayed by a few bribes here or there. It only took a few shiny trinkets to lend me this gondola for the entire evening." Merlin's gaze remained squarely no her eyes, with a smile she hasn't seen since he proposed to her in this very city ages ago.
"You know when you told me to dress however I wanted, it would have been lovely for you to mention that if I did I'd be very underdressed Merlin…"
"Maybe I wanted to catch you off guard? Hardly ever happens to my disappointment."
Morgana rolled her eyes before her eyes flashed gold and in exchange for her utter riff raff of clothes, was a gorgeous dark red crisscross back split thigh dress, her hair now loose with waves towards the bottom and her mask's bright red color darkening to match her dress. Sexy, she definitely knew how to attract eyeballs to her. Finishing her new look with golden open toed heels, some light makeup and a jewel encrusted necklace.
Merlin looked at her with appreciation, ha! Catching her off guard? Like hell…
"What's in the bag anyway?"
"Fritters and fried dough balls, which I want to eat right now so come on let's get going already!"
Merlin snorted as he aided Morgana onto the Gondola, muttering to himself. "And they say men have ravenous stomachs…"
"You say something Merlin?"
Well shit… "I said men have ravenous stomachs, I'm starving love."
"Hmm…"
"Hehe" Merlin just started to row the gondola to avoid making a bigger idiot of himself, besides tonight would be perfect.
Of course, as soon as he thought that…his beloved wife just had to start streaming this moment. Honestly, you'd think Morgana was only 15 instead of 1500… He doesn't think he'll ever truly understand or like publicly sharing moments of your life with people but, tonight not even that could ruin this.
"I'm not even going to say anything."
"Oh come on Billy, it would be a crime not to show the viewers how much effort you put into all this."
Merlin just rolled his eyes; it'd be a real crime if he were to 'accidentally' tumble this boat and have her thrown overboard… Actually, yes it would be a serious crime…because she'd boil him alive for ruining her doughy treats.
Her hair? Her dress? Eh.
Ah St. Mark's Square, the spot where he gathered the courage necessary to ask for her hand. The perfect resting destination, now if only he can get Morgana to put the damn phone down for just a moment.
"Guys I'm like losing my shit, this is where we first got engaged! God it feels so nostalgic, it's as if I'm really back in that moment but well…obviously not in this dress haha." Morgana kept spouting off her thoughts to her adoring public while trying not to let anything slip…good grief.
Merlin will agree with her on one thing, this does feel nostalgic. That was the point, his entire purpose here was to bring back those feelings of them being on top of the world that's gotten lost amid this ruckus with…all those familiar old faces.
If anything or anyone tries to ruin this, he'll drown them in a sea of lava.
He became alert when Morgana tapped his mouth with a dough ball.
"Come now, open wide." She really thinks she's so amusing…
"Ha ha."
"Oh stop you know you love it when I feed you, you're fooling no one good sir."
Now that he thinks about it, Merlin does have some ways he can rid her of that damn cockiness.
But he really does miss the delicacies of carnevale…
Oh well, a two for one special as they like to say.
Merlin bit into half while pulling Morgana's face closer as they kissed while both eating a delicious castagnole. Both tried to take control and for a moment in which Morgana was winning. Merlin however, knew how to defang her…
Morgana stiffened a gasp as she felt his fingers reach beneath her dress and into her core. Is he insane?! What if they're caught?!
Of course, Morgana oddly enough saw no one even paying them any attention…as if…
"Wait a second did he…?"
Ah there it is, Morgana saw the rune carved onto the back of the gondola. To remain undisturbed and unnoticed, privacy even in public.
"You are right my dear, I do enjoy getting fed by you. But I think I can handle it on my own tonight." Merlin than sat Morgana down on the cushions while he went beneath her dress and…
"That fucking tongue will be the end of me…..." She had to do all she could not to moan, rune or no rune she isn't going to start moaning like a whore in the middle of the Venetian lagoon! But damn…does Merlin know how to get her all hot and bothered.
Merlin just wanted her to enjoy tonight, and though things are happening a bit out of order…he was planning for their fun activities a bit later but oh well. She was pretty much begging for it with all that teasing, and quite honestly this dress should be illegal. Now if his medical anatomy book was worth the paper it was printed on than her clitoris should be right—
"Damn you Merlin…" Morgana gasped as she rolled her eyes back, gripping his head through her dress, ugh stupid thing she really wants to rip it off!
Not giving him that satisfaction…!
Merlin was like a man starved; well he did say he was starving. She should have listened.
Adding a couple of fingers to aid in his effort to make her orgasm, he felt great pleasure at her grinding her womanly bits on his face…he knew it was a sign she wasn't going to last much longer.
Good, time he got his dessert.
With his other hand he squeezed one of her nips, finally causing Morgana to drench him in her warm essence.
"I hate you…" Morgana laid back, catching her breath; this was perhaps one of the most daring sexual escapades they've had in years. And they did it in the Eifel Tower once!
Merlin laid next to her, gently caressing her face down to her arms, kissing her until she regained her composure enough to kiss back.
"I don't want to hear it." She quipped before he could utter a word.
"That's fine, I'm stuffed." It felt so good to throw a smirk of his own, serves her right haha.
Morgana rolled her eyes trying to hide her blush, this man really knew how to get to her.
"Well I hope so, because now the food is cold."
Merlin snorted and reheated them with magic.
"You were saying?"
"Don't get cocky Merlin, I still haven't returned the favor. I'd wager I can finish you in half the time."
"While that does sound tempting, I do actually have something in mind for why I suggested this little trip…I-"
Morgana looked puzzled as Merlin cut himself off looking at her…phone?
Oh…oh shit…
"Morgana…"
"Yes…"
"Please tell me you didn't stream this…"
"…"
"Please…"
"…"
"We used our real names…"
"…I mean they'll probably think it was just roleplay…"
"Oh for fuck's sake!"
"I could have sworn I stopped it!"
"Well clearly you just gave your adoring public a free show…"
"Noooo! I really hope I don't get banned from Instagram!" Morgana frantically made sure that the stream was now offline and to delete any footage that uploaded
"When I said Merlin and I should do a video together…this was NOT WHAT I WAS TALKING ABOUT!"
Maybe vlogging isn't all that's cracked up to be?
Maybe…but dammit that's the same as admitting Merlin was right so she'll ignore that.
"I mean I think that would be great, but let's be real you'll find a way back in." Merlin rolled her eyes at her dramatics. Internet and cell phones were already annoying in his mind…but to combine them together? Whoever thought of that should be roasted by Aithusa.
"I bloody told you that all these crazy inventions would just dumb you down but nooooo! 'Stop being a stubborn old goat Merlin, get in with the times Merlin, Merlin get over it because we're buying it and that's that'."
Morgana glared but kept her gaze at her phone trying to fix this mess. "Okay 1) I don't sound like that! 2) How was I supposed to know I didn't tap the screen hard enough?!"
"Can't go wrong with messenger owls if I do say so myself." Merlin was taking great delight at having a victory lap…in his mind at least.
"Yeah yeah you and your 12th century mentality." Morgana waved off his complaints, as per usual Merlin takes a mile when he gets an inch…and not in the fun way either.
"Well at least now some degenerates are frothing at the mouth over what they just witnessed…"
"I really hope that those who did see it don't start saying I should start an OnlyFans…" Morgana bit her lip in frustration.
Merlin quirked a brow "Only what?"
"Eh a site where people do things for fans in exchange for money."
"Forget I asked…"
"Oh relax, I'm hardly that desperate for attention." Morgana snorted.
"Thank the heavens for smaller mercies." Merlin blankly replied.
"Anyway! So what exactly were you hoping to do here again?" Morgana hoped that her smile and gleaming eyes - that she totally didn't use magic to emphasize – would get him to change the subject. It did…finally, she really can't handle losing if you couldn't tell already.
Merlin took a deep breath and when he reopened his eyes…got on one knee.
Morgana was stunned…what was he doing?
Merlin grabbed her hand "I was giving this a lot of thought ever since we started this little trip of our. I want us to renew our vows, so I got you this." He reached into his back pocket with his other hand and opened the small box containing a reddish gold ring with a diamond on it, a bit superior to the gold banded ring he originally got her centuries ago in this very spot.
Morgana tried to compose herself, she's the Last High Priestess, second in power only to Emrys…she shouldn't be shedding tears over this like some teenage girl…
But damn if she didn't really care at this moment.
"You win this time Merlin... I'm utterly speechless aside from of course yes, I want to renew our vows as well."
Merlin placed the ring on her finger before embracing her tightly with a passionate kiss as night began to arrive, the twilight gleam bidding farewell.
They chose to of course continue their love making, if only the Venetians could see and hear through the runes…boy would there be quite the commotion.
After they clothed each other back to socially acceptable standards they chose to remain for a few more hours cuddled up together, just wanting to bask in the glow of their passion…and the lagoon rocking the boat actually felt good on their backs.
They're young but they're old…but they're young also remember that!
"What material is this made of anyway? It looks like gold but also something else." Morgana wondered as she examined her new ring more thoroughly.
"Orichalcum." Merlin replied simply.
"…? Okay? And that's?"
"Atlantean metal."
"…As in Atlantis?" Morgana was dumbfounded to say the least.
"Yep."
Ugh she hated when he did this…
"You're seriously going to tell me you also found Atlantis." She flatly stated.
"I did tell you I wanted to learn all of the world's secrets." Merlin shrugged as he closed his eyes to relax himself in the comfort of her body next to his.
Morgana groaned; they were so going to talk about that little adventure later, but first.
"I must ask, what brought this on?" Morgana kept starring at her ring as it gleamed off the night sky, with St. Mark Square's lights on to her left.
Merlin looked at her, than to her ring before finally answering.
"I felt it long past time we reestablished control over our lives. The fates can't destroy this, we fought too long and too hard to let anyone get in the way of this" Merlin placed his own ringed hand next to hers, he didn't really care to get a new one for himself. Settling for just the original gold band.
"I think we can call this holiday a success." Morgana smiled as she leaned her head on his shoulder.
"It helped, despite the bumps along the road."
"I'm glad."
If only they knew then that those words were spoken too soon…
They stayed in Venice a few more days before deciding that to end their holiday they'd make their way south to Pompeii in time to see Cynfab's awakening.
Of course, Morgana suggested that they re-explore major sites and cities on the way.
Merlin being Merlin, rolled his eyes and capitulated. Not a hill worth drying on in his opinion…well if he could die that was.
Florence was beautiful as always, the Dome looking magnificent. But honestly it was their steak that stole Merlin's heart.
"How can it steal your heart if I already have it?" Morgana quipped as she munched on her own Bistecca alla Florentina.
"I'm sure you can share."
"Careful or I'll leave you for the peposo." Morgana snorted.
"You know what? For peposo, I'd understand if you did."
"Poor you."
Eventually they made it to Rome, at least here they had some kind of connection from their Albion roots. Morgana was thinking how odd it felt to be in the former heart of the Empire that brought even Albion to its knees.
"Ever imagine what our lives would be like if the Romans never left Albion?" Morgana wondered as she and Merlin wandered through the city, passing by the Colosseum, the Pantheon, even the ruins of the Roman Forum.
"Well for one Uther probably wouldn't have been king. Hell, most of England probably wouldn't have kings and simply Roman governors. It's hard to say what else, but I do know that if they never came to Albion at all then we'd have probably been far less advanced civilization wise. Even in those days, Gaul and eventually France would have probably been the dominant European power." Merlin remembered all the times he scoured through Camelot's historical scrolls trying to further his knowledge…it was during Gwen's reign as Queen.
"Hmm, I can't imagine you actually came to Rome before this country actually became a country right?"
Merlin chuckled "Of course not, I came to Italy to sail directly to Egypt around my initial search for Alexander's tomb. I did go through Rome for that."
Morgana quirked a brow "Despite the fact that the headquarters for one of the most magic hating religions is stationed in this very city?"
"Technically the Vatican is its own thing."
"To hell with your technicalities."
"You do realize that I lived in Uther's Camelot for 10 years right? The best place for any mage to hide is among the mage hunters themselves."
Morgana thought about it, true Merlin did go unnoticed for a decade in a kingdom that punished magic via death. She could see his point.
"Come on, I want to see why this Carbonara is so famous compared to Gordon Ramsay's."
Merlin wondered if he should ask who that was…eh if it's important he'll find out.
Finally they made it to Naples, Pompeii isn't too far now. Of course, now that they were in the land that created pizza…
Going to the best pizzeria in Naples proved to be a rather…precarious affair…
All Merlin cared about was having a Margherita pizza, simple and delicious.
Morgana? Goodness gracious…
They don't even have pineapples here…
"Come on Merlin just one bite!"
"It's ironic that you emphasized the need for aliases yet lately you continue to disregard them…"
Morgana rolled her eyes "Aside from the fact that most likely some of the people who don't understand English or are eavesdropping on us, they probably wouldn't just assume we're THE Morgana and Merlin."
"Aren't you cute putting your name first."
"Why thank you dear."
"Ugh never mind, and get that thing away from my mouth." Merlin grunted shoving her hand away to put as much distance between his tastebuds and that hideous pineapple pizza as possible…
"Would you stop being stubborn?"
"Look, pizza is one of the few food items I actually like in this century. I really don't need it ruined because you woke up one morning and decided 'Hey I'm gonna put some fruit on it and hope I don't get sick' well no thank you." Merlin huffed and went back to his Margherita.
"Okay 1, tomatoes are fruits! 2, you really need to stop with these little impersonations if you really can't get my voice right. And let me tell you 'Mr. I'm too high on my horse to be bothered' pineapple on pizza is perhaps the best invention humanity has ever created!"
A gasp could be heard as Morgana turned her head as saw some of the other guests look in shock at either her statement or the pineapples on her pizza…knowing her luck recently probably both.
"Well, seems like you'll be needing a private security force after this hahaha." Ugh great there's goes his smugness meter going nowhere but up…
"Okay so maybe some of them do know English…" Morgana really wished she had a hoodie on or something.
"Or they just have eyes?"
"'Or they just have eyes bleh'"
"Well at least I'm not the only one who butchers voices." Merlin stuck his tongue at her and it took all she had not to bite it off.
Merlin turned to the gawking guests which now included the pizzaiolo "Non conosco questa donna mi dispiace!" "I don't know this woman I'm sorry!" Well it certainly helped to break the ice giving everyone a laugh, but than he saw the evil eye on his wife that promised he'll pay for this later.
"Look relax, you clearly like it so much just eat it." Merlin said trying to minimize the potential damage she'll give him later.
"Oh I will, but next time we'll try this again in a more favorable environment. You only won because people here actually share your boring opinion."
"…Yeah…I'm just going to eat in silence and not even bother responding."
"You do that Merly-poo…"
Following their rather hilarious lunch they decided to take a bit of time heading south to Pompeii, taking the scenic route enjoying the endless vineyards they passed by.
Finally…all good things had to come to come to an end.
As the twilight sky gleamed orange and pink, the immediate red flag was…no one was here. It's as if the ruins of Pompeii were left as bare as it was post eruption…
"Something tells me the tourists or officials didn't just decide to go on break…" Morgana was looking around trying to spot anyone while Merlin kept his gaze on Vesuvius, the current home of Cynfab.
It's been a long time since he saw the dragon that was in many ways his own son, especially now in these uncertain times…he needs him now more than ever. If for nothing else than to make sure he's alright.
Merlin than felt a nudge on his shoulder as he turned to Morgana who pointed toward the amphitheater. At first, he assumed she was pointing further in the distance but when he concentrated his magic toward the amphitheater itself…something's odd.
Merlin walked towards it with starch golden narrowed eyes as he tried to decipher this feeling, he entered into a deeper plane of existence and saw the magical barrier covering the amphitheater.
"Who's responsible for this?" Merlin figured there was only one way to find out, he turned to Morgana who prepared herself as well before nodding at him.
Merlin touched the barrier and projected his power into it, shattering it like glass.
Suddenly noise filled their ears and what once appeared like an empty ruined amphitheater now included many people and in the arena itself men and women fighting each other bloody. Merlin glared at this brutish display, but he had other things to focus on…such as who cast the bloody barrier. Barring himself and Morgana only that wretched worm Sigan had magic. He can't sense his presence however so if his reincarnation regained his memories and cast the barrier, than he would have left behind traces of his aura…whereas this aura felt unfamiliar to him.
Morgana silently motioned that she was going to take the left which means Merlin is taking the right. He knew she could handle herself…but he also he thought he could until that slime proved him wrong.
So if it really isn't Sigan…who else is left?
Mordred to his recollection doesn't have magic in his new life…and even if he did, he's a bum so he couldn't afford a flight to Cuba let alone Italy. So he's out…
Freya's the Lady of the Lake and she would never do this even if she weren't…
He isn't aware as of now any other former dead mages that returned to this world…so maybe it isn't human.
The dragons weren't even a consideration, even if one of his kin did turn rogue he'd be able to tell. Draconian magic is very distinct from any magic possessed by mortal humans, and Merlin felt none.
Merlin noticed how the crowd felt, well not lifeless exactly but they aren't exactly as…fluid shall we say compared to your typical crowd over a bunch of fools bashing each other's brains in.
"Hmm…?"
Any other magical beast wouldn't have the intellect nor the sophistication to pull something like this off, so he must go beyond even that. Now there are other pantheons with their own magical beasts out there, however it's all the same. Everyone with an affinity of magic uses the same magic of the earth.
So ultimately he's down to one last group of suspects, the Sidhe.
Merlin clenched his fists as his golden eyes surveyed to the now makeshift arena to search for the Fae in question. He's been sick of their little tricks for centuries, always making sure to keep them in line whenever they dared try to cross it. This wasn't how he had hoped to do today, but it seems that the Fates will always try to throw ditches in his path.
Finally, Merlin noticed a man sitting alone near the top of the back of the arena. This man certainly appeared like the worthless sack of flesh most humans were. But there was more to him than meets the eye, his eyes for instance looked cold icy blue…but he knew that the second he performed spells they would turn to a fiery red.
Merlin's gaze than turned to his wife on the opposite side of the amphitheater, she appears to have arrived to the same conclusion as she kept examining the potential ringleader of this little circus.
Who this Sidhe is individually is of no concern to him, in the end he'll meet the same fate as all his brethren who dared to challenge his authority over the earth…his precious home.
Merlin smirked, he supposed it's been a while since he and Morgana both teamed up in a potentially serious battle.
He than examined the fighters themselves, seems that the woman managed to behead one of the other fighters, leaving it down to three. But as soon as the big brute of a man crushed the chest of the smaller, did Merlin realize what he was dealing with.
For once he didn't need to take long to recognize this face.
Percival.
Merlin projected his thoughts to Morgana how was now in her Priestess mentality getting ready for battle "Morgana, look at the man in the arena. That's Percival."
"Are you sure? I can't say I knew him." Compared to Gwaine, Elyan, Lancelot and Leon…Percival was one of the knights she knew the least of.
"I'd know that face, he did stick around in Camelot until his death during Gwen's reign."
"Well doesn't that make things interesting, a former knight and a Sidhe in the same place? Destiny must be running out of things to throw at us."
Merlin snorted and kept his eye on the battle, Percival's reincarnation certainly retained his prowess for battle. Unlike the other reincarnations this one might prove a bit more…nostalgic. Not even in the good way like with Lancelot unfortunately.
His memories of Percival only consisted of a silent judgement of the reveal of Merlin being the Old Warlock Dragoon but also failing not only to save Arthur but Gwaine.
In fact, now that he can look back at his time in Camelot without the pretty lenses it was clear that Gwen and Leon also had some type of issue with him in some form.
Leon wanted his aid in trying to collect all the magical artifacts and stuff them in the vaults of Camelot. Merlin refused, stating that he had done enough harm to magic to warrant fulfilling his request. Didn't earn him any brownie points.
While Gwen assuredly kept reminding Merlin that she never blamed him for Arthur's death, she must have really thought he was stupid. Their relationship forever changed when he refused to use the power of life and death to bring him back. The ritual was unpredictable even if he was to cast the spell. The old religion cared not who it picked as the sacrifice, the risk of Gwen herself dying to bring back Arthur was too great a risk…but she refused to understand that. Just as he did when he killed Nimueh…
It saddens him because at the time he stubbornly refused to believe their friendship wasn't still strong. But honestly their friendship had deteriorated when she first put on the Queen's crown anyway.
From that point on until her death it was simply formalities, but she at the very least repealed Uther's genocidal laws on magic. For what little good that did, it was far too late to stop the near disappearance of magic from Albion and the world at large.
As for Gaius…? Well, he didn't hate the man. But after Arthur's death and how he essentially failed, he didn't really want anything to do with him besides business for the kingdom. Even if Merlin wanted to forgive him for being one of the ones who gave him false hope during a time when he desperately needed it. And having him live a life of distrusting others, Morgana especially…he had died only 2 years after Camlann.
He died as he lived, quiet and out of everyone's way.
"Merlin we should strike now!"
Merlin grew alert at the sound of Morgana's voice, and tried to think of a quick and easy strategy to execute a seamless plan. Only then did he notice that Percival's reincarnation was victorious.
However before either mage could act, the Sidhe possessed man stood up clapping as if he were seeing some play.
"Bravo good mortal, is everyone in attendance all enjoying themselves?!"
To Morgana it looked as though the audience were acting more like robots than anything natural. Could they be illusions? Are they possessed?
"Now if the two interloping rats among you can come on down and join in the activities, that will be swell." The man's eyes turned red as both Merlin and Morgana felt a pull, dragging them toward the arena next to Percival who seemed to be glaring up at the Sidhe.
"Ah Emrys the arrogance in you truly amuses me, it seems that all these years have dulled your finer sense."
Merlin glared as he stood tall "Clearly, you're a degenerate of the Sidhe. So, to whom do I have the honor of punishing before sending your wings to your kind as yet another warning?"
Morgana briefly looked at Percival, he appeared a lot more in control of himself than how the crowd appeared to be. Hmm perhaps she was onto something?
"Oh where are my manners, you may address me as Cathair. The one who will go down in history as he finally caused your downfall." Clearly this Cathair was buying into his own bullshit.
Merlin rolled his eyes "Oh gee where have I heard that before, your delusion of grandeur really does your kind proud. It wouldn't be the first time I proved someone wrong." He than materialized his trusty staff.
Cathair growled as he narrowed his eyes at the weapon. "A staff forged by Sidhe magic; you have some nerve Emrys…!"
"You can certainly come and try to take it from me you imp."
While Merlin kept the Sidhe distracted, Morgana finally realized that indeed the crowd was enchanted to simply obey whatever the Sidhe's commands are.
OF COURSE!
No wonder there was no one around the ruins, they were all held captive here! They certainly look like tourists and personnel.
She quickly tried to outweigh the pros and cons of simply focusing on the Sidhe threat or trying to save them…ugh it's exhausting being the good guy.
"Merlin, Cathair has held these people hostage with an enchantment. We must be careful not to exert so much power else we may end up killing them."
"…"
"Merlin?" Why isn't he answering her?
"Oh Emrys, are you sure you can afford to hold back here? After all, we Sidhe no longer need to fear you."
Merlin quirked a brow, that's quite the bold statement.
"Is that so?"
"Haha it was quite the amusement in Avalon when we first saw it." He'll take great pleasure tearing that faerie's face to shreds.
"Alright I dunno who the hell you two are, but I sure as hell am done being your little guinea pig asshole! I'm done killing whoever you want! I'm gonna save my family and if I have to team up with some other freaks to kill you, than bring it the fuck on!"
It would appear that Percival's reincarnation is more of a hothead than his original counterpart…how quaint.
And he has a family…?
"Hey amateur. shut up and let the professionals handle this. You wouldn't last a second against a novice sorcerer let alone a Sidhe whose name literally translates to slaughter…" Morgana really wasn't impressed with this guy butting in.
"Who're you calling an amateur?! I'm Ted Hopper and I'm a world champion!"
"Yeah, I don't watch wrestling."
"UFC!"
"Still no I'm afraid."
"Morgana. Focus."
Hearing Merlin's tone reminded her of the situation they're in, ugh this fucking knight just has to aggravate her. This may be the fates' most daring attempt yet; they're definitely trying everything in their power now.
"Well why don't we give the crowd a show?" Cathair raised his hand as his eyes glowed red, and suddenly mythical beasts from many origins appeared around the three.
A Banshee, a Troll, a Golem made of obsidian, a pair of Wyverns, and a few Draugars.
"He's even got Norse creatures at his command." Morgana pointed out.
Merlin confirmed her notice "Makes sense, when the Norse invaded Albion they brought their creatures with them no doubt."
"Oh, and just so to make things more challenging…catch"
A flash of red sent something shooting towards them that actually sent shivers down Merlin's spine.
He blasted Morgana as far as he could using the wind, if anything he never wanted her to have to experience this.
Cathair had one of Cornelius Sigan's magical emp's…
"Ugh…!" Merlin felt dizzy, it's as if he's reliving those moments all over again!
Morgana sat up confused until she saw Merlin gripping his head, she felt it! Or rather she couldn't feel it! His aura was gone!
But how?!
What was that thing that Cathair…?!
Wait…
Was this the device that Merlin spoke of to her?! That Sigan used to overpower him?!
Then that means Merlin lost his connection to the earth, his magic isn't answering to him!
"Hey you okay? What was that? Come on man we can't exactly get out of here without your help!" Ted Hopper…Percival is so lucky that Merlin feels so empty right now, less he be turned to ash.
"You…! Where did you get that?!" If looks could kill than the wretched faerie would be nothing but a puddle of blue blood right now.
"Like my gift Emrys? Our mutual friend, the Dark One decided to lend a hand so to speak as the mortals say." Cathair's smug smirk was infuriating and Morgana right now was trying to remain calm and focus her magic not only to destroy the beasts but to keep Merlin safe. Who knows how long it would take for him to reform from these exotic creatures?
Merlin and Morgana froze at the sound of his words. The Dark One?
Merlin knew that if he possessed those contraptions than this Dark One could only be one man…
"You…you've been in contact with Sigan? Tell me where he is! Now!" Merlin couldn't believe it; his fears were true. Sigan's reincarnation spell worked and it seems he's attempting to retry his efforts at his goals.
He'll never let him succeed!
"Why do you think Avalon no longer fears you Emrys? Why even that very name has lost its power and luster, oh for shame. To think that a piece of mortal ingenuity was able to cripple magic itself, a practical god among mortals! Hahaha! It's the joke of the millennium!"
Morgana heard enough but before she could smite the bastard her spell was cut short when she was forced to dodge attacks from the Troll and Banshee. She quickly magicked a sword from one of the fallen warriors and enchanted it with runes to aid her in penetrating her foes.
Ted was rather feeling nervous inside, but he really didn't see any other option left but to fight. He either fought for his freedom or died trying. Both better than being a slave to some crazy pixie or whatever they're called!
"Fine you want a piece of me?! Arrrggghh!" He slashed his heavy sword towards the Draugars but to no effect.
"Shit?! What are these things made of?" Ted had to think of something or else he's zombie food.
Merlin knew he should focus on surviving the Golem's onslaught and it seems that the Wyverns are sensing an opportunity since the emp also had an effect on his dragonlord abilities as well…
It's not like they always obeyed him anyway but now would have been the best!
But he couldn't stop looking back at that blue eyesore as he was sipping wine on his elegant seat looking down at the violence with an amused look on that wretched face.
"I assure you Sidhe, you will tell me where Sigan is even if I must tear you apart atom by atom." Merlin than gripped his staff in a form of Jōjutsu he learned in feudal Japan, now that he's been forced to use physical methods of destroying these vermin.
Of course, how he can kill a Golem and Wyverns with a what is essentially a large nice-looking stick without magic…? He doesn't know either but he'll use his teeth if he has to in order to get what he wants!
Because he was knocked unconscious the last time Sigan used that magical emp on him during the war, Merlin doesn't know how long he has precisely until his connection to the earth is restored, which means he must fight with the expectation that he won't be using magic at all in this fight.
Maybe he should have taken Morgana's sword lessons more seriously, he's so stupid!
Merlin shook the dizziness off and swiped to the left of the Golem's heavy fist while jumping atop his back and onto one of the Wyverns who roared and flew off into the air, trying to shake Merlin off. If it weren't for Merlin's centuries of experience riding much larger Dragons than he probably would have fallen off immediately. Now if he remembers correctly…
Gripping the small horns of the Wyvern, he managed to force it to ride into its partner in the sky, tumbling them both back down to the amphitheater. Unfortunately, the other Wyvern knocked into some of the enchanted pedestrians killing a few.
"Oh my Emrys, have your years of life turned your heart stone? Oh well not like I care; they served their purpose well enough." Cathair grinned as he saw the Wyvern finally knock Merlin off its back and down toward the Golem.
Meanwhile Morgana was busy trying not to get flattened by a Troll but also to protect her hearing from the Banshee's wailing. Fortunately, her magic is protecting her with the latter but she can't waste too much time and energy on these small fries. Not when the real battle has yet to begin.
If the damn Troll would stop absorbing her attacks with its obnoxiously rock hard skin…she could than focus on the damn spectre trying to bloody her eardrums!
She'll have to stop being stingy with her magic than.
Trolls have a weakness to fire, whereas Banshee's can only be hurt when placed in a runed circle as with any spectre. Alright first the troll…
Morgana kept trying to focus her magic to enflame her sword but the damn creatures won't let up and they keep pushing her farther and farther away from Merlin…
Destiny's a real bitch today.
Fine she'll have to use the incantation, let's see them get passed this.
"Llosg cleddyf!" Bright hot orange flames covered her sword as she began to carefully target the Troll's belly and legs, being the softer parts of its hideous body. The flames seem to have startled it, while it keeps trying to take cover with its back but the flames leave scorches on its surface.
Quickly Morgana had to trap the troll in a circle of lava while she created distance from the banshee who unleashed a mighty vibrating shriek that made her want to scream at the sheer agony her ears are experiencing. Had it not been for her magic, her drums would have undoubtedly burst blood by now.
She has no time to lose, the troll was beginning to tear the very concrete beneath him to try to quell the flames.
"Ysbryd wedi dechrau!" Quickly she uttered the spell as soon as the banshee was within range to trap them both in a circle of spirit protection runes.
"AAAAAHHHHHHHHHH!" The Banshee shrieked as it was now in pain from Morgana's spell.
This was her chance; without hesitation she charged through and pierced the vile creature's chest before pulling back and slicing off its head. The Banshee's voice finally dissolving in nothing like the rest of her form…
Time to finish this fat slob off and make her way back toward Merlin, whom it looked like was at least holding his own against his 3 opponents. Granted he was still feeling winded from the emp by the looks of it. But she's proud of his growth in skill, magic or no magic they won't allow themselves to fall prey to anyone without a fight.
Time to end this, with a shout she shot forth flames from the lit torches around the captive audience to burn the Troll.
"Dos allan a llosga ef!"
The troll was engulfed in flames and before he get himself out of it, his eye was pierced by Morgana's sword which she threw at him.
Huffing, she snuffed out the flames with a flash of her golden eyes and recovered her weapon before making her way to Merlin…or at least until Ted had to drag her into his mess.
The fool ran towards her direction dragging along the Draugars thus alerting one of them to her presence. Ugh what is it with Camelot Knights always ruining her plans?!
She really needs to do everything must she?
Ugh…
Alright if her Norse knowledge is as good as she remembers than Draugars are immune to most attacks except dismemberment and then burning their remains. This Sidhe really needs to stop making things too easy for her.
She figures she outta make the imbecile trying in vain to keep himself from becoming one with the undead a bit more useful to her.
"Llosg cleddyf!" Morgana charmed Ted's sword who in turn looked surprised at the flame runes carved on his blade which than brought forth flames.
"The fuck is this?"
"Shut up and focus, I'm going to slice them apart and you're going to burn them to ash when I do understand?!"
Ted nodded, finally feeling more secure now that there was a clear weakness to these things.
Morgana charged at the Draugar closest to her and ducked beneath the swipe to her face and steered clear of its bite when it followed her down. She managed to amputate it's right arm than rolled to it's other side and got a leg.
Turning to the other Draugar who sped its way toward her, a twitch of neck sent the undead monstrosity spiraling on the ground giving the opportunity to sever its head from its shoulders than the rest of his limbs.
"Go destroy it!" Morgana turned back to finish the other Draugar while Ted incinerated the dismembered one as its ashes blew with the wind.
However, the fallen Draugar she left earlier began to spur poisonous gas from its mouth forcing her to cover her face to avoid inhaling it.
"Well that's just perfect!" She'll have to keep her distance, at least until she noticed her sleeves beginning melt away.
"Fuck it's not just gas, it's bloody acid!" Quickly she gained more distance while healing herself before the poisonous acid could touch her skin, along with an air bubble to breath in.
"Don't get too close, its desperation is proving to be quite the nuisance!" Ted merely nodded taking position beside her waiting for her que. How odd, to be fighting alongside a Knight of Camelot even if it is just a reincarnation…
Morgana decided than to take a risk and quickly pulled the undead creature toward her with magic before slicing off its head and limbs before it could spout more of that wretched poison. Ted finally dealing the fatal blow as it turned to ash.
"Well that just leaves your friend." Ted pointed out as Morgana regained her breath, once more looking that her arm. Her spell seems to have healed most of the damage but it still looks rather red, comparable to a sun burn if anything. Better than being third degree burned at least…
"Husband."
"Ah, than we're both saving those who mean most to us than." They both starting running towards Merlin's 3v1 battle.
"You're married?" She couldn't help her curiosity as they neared the fight, the other reincarnations seemed to have been as single as they were in their previous lives. She supposed not everything had to be the same.
"A wife and daughter, they're captive among the audience, we were just supposed to be visiting relatives in Calabria but wanted to stop by the ruins…worst decision I ever made!"
Well that sounded sad, funny and irritating. Sad and funny because she and Merlin probably ended up making that same decision, irritating because she knew Destiny kept intersecting their paths with that of her chosen figures.
Finally they reached Merlin, who at last took down one of the Wyverns by timing his maneuver of getting the Wyvern he rode on in the direction of the Golem's attack perfectly. The poor Wyvern got its head smashed to paste as a result.
All that was left was the Golem itself and the last Wyvern.
Merlin was starting to regain his strength; it wouldn't be long now before his connection to the earth would be restored.
He didn't need magic to feel that Morgana had returned, giving him the confidence to charge forward toward the Wyvern.
"Morgana the ankles! The Golem's weakness are the ankles!
The High Priestess nodded as she and Ted both took on the Golem together…and it certainly wasn't a troll.
This Golem appeared to have some semblance of intelligence as it kept dodging any blows to its only weaknesses. Than it raised its enormous fists and smashed them to the ground shaking everything and everyone causing Morgana and Ted to lose their footing.
"Ugh!" Ted than pulled her out of the way of its fist lest she become like the Wyvern it minced.
"I dunno about you, but I'm starting to feel like I miss the zombies…"
For once she can agree with the idiot, this Golem wasn't a pushover that's for sure. Still everything has its weakness, so aside from the ankles…what else can she exploit? Well, in her experience big strong oafs tend to be really dumb…perfect.
Or well it would have been had The Golem not yanked out its own arm and wielded it like a mallet at them, barely getting out of the way in time.
Ted decided to use some of the ash from the Draugar that still remained on the ground and throw it at the Golem's eyes who in turned groaned as its vision was now muddled.
"Good thinking! Now's our chance!" Morgana lifted her sword than ran after one of the ankles while Ted ran for the other.
Unfortunately, given that the Golem was now chaotically swing his now weaponized arm around in every direction it was hard to get too close without getting swatted away like flies. Her concern was warranted when they got hit and knocked onto the lower steps of the amphitheater, her sword knocked away from her. Ted seems to have gotten his sword arm dislocated…splendid.
Morgana tried to levitate her sword back to her but the Golem stood in the way ready to crush her to paste…just the moment she's been waiting for.
"Cathair really should pick his minions better, I speak from experience of course." She taunted as her golden eyes had her sword flying toward the Golem's left ankle from behind, causing it to roar as it got down to a knee.
However she's still a bit winded and the Golem looks ready to squeeze the life out of her, and with Tom still trying to get his arm back in place…this is gonna hurt…
Than the Golem shrieked again as it collapsed down in front of her, saw it…half of Merlin's staff pierced the other ankle.
"What? But how did…?" She looked up at the sky as saw Merlin with his arm still in its throwing position up atop the Wyvern. The other half of his staff in his other hand.
He saved her.
Shame about the staff though, he's had it since he took it from those two Sidhe that tried to drown Arthur. What were their names again? Eh who cares.
Morgana nodded in thanks as Merlin's gaze appeared relieved before he returned the gesture.
Merlin can now see that the more the effects of the emp wear off, the more bits and bits of his power return. Starting with his Dragonlord abilities. It isn't at full capacity quite yet but just enough to tame the Wyvern enough to betray its Sidhe master.
As Ted finally got his socket back in place, he and Morgana ran up to Cathair who was clapping like a stereotypical mustache cartoon villain. How original.
"I must say that was quite the entertainment, more than I expected from the likes of you and your companions Emrys." Cathair's possessed victim stood as his smirk widened, skin now turning blue.
"It's your fault for assuming that I'd be helpless without my inner magic. For that you will suffer…as soon as I make you tell me what rock Sigan crawled under." Merlin's fury could be easily recognized given that his golden eyes resembled orange lava than the brightness it used to.
"Aren't you having fun Emrys? The main event hasn't even started…so perhaps you should focus less on the Dark One and more on your doom." The Sidhe's eyes turned blood red as he began another summoning ritual.
Morgana braced herself, what was he doing now?!
"Oh great he's gonna bring more of them?!" Ted gritted his teeth, they barely got through the last batch!
Merlin narrowed his eyes, ready to aim his staff as a makeshift spear once again at the wretched faerie…
"Alas for this grand finale I'll be requiring a sacrifice…let's go with this one."
Cathair raised his hand at the Wyvern who shrieked as it dissolved toward the magic of the Sidhe.
"Urrghh!" Merlin was falling down at too high a speed, whether it was enough to 'kill' him or not well he's about to find out.
Or maybe not.
He reopened his eyes as he saw Morgana's glowing golden eyes, she had broken his fall by levitating his body gently to the ground.
"We're even now darling." He has to kiss her when this is over.
"Not about being even…" He muttered which caused Morgana to snort.
"Uhh guys I think he's done…"
As they both turned back to where Ted was pointing, all around Cathair was a cold chilly magical aura.
"Rísa rammr at afli Ymir!"
So I ended up typing a hella lot for this that I had to split this chapter into 2 haha
Nonstop action, so I hope I did it good enough for you guys, love you lots :D
Action is heavy next chapter as well, but also some moments
Let me know if you guys like it :D Love ya lots!
Morgana's Gondola Dress – us . romwe . ?url_from=usplaswdress07191029973L_GPM&cid=16957198221&setid=&adid=&pf=GOOGLE&gclid=CjwKCAjw46CVBhB1EiwAgy6M4nK98N3q1QijTGT-gYUCTVzKt3mg4J5IuqZkAzTNTDAa6XMSC1NOCRoCl1UQAvD_BwE
Morgana's Mask – w w w . etsy listing/1080531741/red-masquerade-mask-large-red-father
Merlin's Mask – w w w . amazon BLEVET-Vintage-Venetian-Masquerade-Halloween/dp/B07NVD92WR/ref=asc_df_B07NVD92WR/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=241966382853&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=11441786989268865212&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9067609&hvtargid=pla-664060632405&th=1
*"Rísa rammr at afli Ymir!"* "Arise mighty Ymir!"