Hello everyone! I am back, once again with another chapter. First of all, Congratulations to everyone! It's an year anniversary for the story 'A heart of Gold'! Yayyyyyy! Can't believe it's about to be a whole year since I started this story. Oh goodnes! I never even imagined that this story will have such positive reviews much less anyone would want to read it. For me it was a mere simple creation which I thought of when I saw Merlin. But now, whatever this story has become, it's all because of your love and support. Thank you so much guys!
And, thanks to @the otter reader, for being a constant support of the story and showering your love upon me! It's great to hear from you. Seriously.
Also thanks to @OechsnerC for posting your wonderful reviews in the previous chapter.
Along with them, thanks to all the others who reviewed this story, @grapejuice101, @Evilhyperpixie13, @Guest, @Kukushkaa, @guest (ninja hugger), @Crystal-Wolf-Gaurdian-967, @Akrttn, and @Yes I am gay whoosh.
A huge thanks to all of you, for giving my story your time and leaving your lovely reviews for me. Loads of love to you guys!! _ Now let's move to the chapter.
The sins of the Father
On a dark night, the voice of a lady was echoing through the silent winds from a fortress as black as the night itself.
"Hider eft funde." The scene changed to a dim lit room, covered with many beautiful vines and candles, radiating a beautiful soft glow around. The source of the voice, the lady was standing in front of a bunch of crystals, as she continued to chant. "On þisse ne middangeard. Arthur Pendragon, a great destiny awaits you." The face of Arthur became visible in the crystal. "The battle for your soul is about to begin." She announced, her voice barely above whispers, but still cold and dangerous.
In Camelot, many people, in the attendance of king and the prince, were present in the hall of ceremonies.
Few men sat there on their knees, bowing their heads as they were dressed in the knights clothes. Uther placed the sword on Vidor before announcing.
"Arise Sir Vidor, Knight of Camelot." He pressed the sword to his each shoulder, knighting him. He then moved to the next one. "Arise Sir Caradoc, Knight of Camelot." He said, repeating the process. The five knights then stood up, now proud to express themselves as the defenders of Camelot.
"You have been accorded a great honour. But with that honour comes great responsibility." Uther spoke, while in the dark paths of the empty Camelot, a knight covered in its armour made their way towards the castle. "From this day forth, you are sworn to live by the knights' code." The knight came across two gaurds, quickly killing them as she continued on her way. "You have pledged to conduct yourselves with nobility, honour, and respect. Your word is your sacred bond. You will find no one who better embodies these values than my son, Arthur. Follow his example, and you will prove yourselves worthy of your title." The king said patting his son, while the knight continued to kill the gaurds as they made their way inside.
Suddenly, the noise reached the hall as everyone in court turned to look at the door. The sound of sword fighting, just outside the door made everyone cautious. When the knight entered the hall, the newly made knights of Camelot drew their swords, pointing at the now approaching unknown knight.
Arthur as the leader stepped forward with his sword in his hand, and the unknown knight made their way towards him. Removing the gauntlet, the knight threw it on ground, while their eyes didn't leave Arthur's even for a second.
Alexia and Merlin, along with the others were now looking at the knight curiously.
Arthur bent down to pick the gauntlet
"I accept your challenge. If I'm to face you in combat, do me the courtesy of revealing your identity." The prince said simply while everyone looked at the knight with interest.
The knight removed the helmet to reveal a wealth of long blonde tresses as they fell back, before the face was revealed, the same as the lady who announced Arthur's battle with his soul.
"My name is Morgause." The lady introduced herself. As she became more of an enigma to everyone. Especially Morgana. Alexia's eyes widened slightly as she realised who she was.
Uther and Arthur now stood there infront of Geoffrey.
"I've searched the records going back more than 300 years. I could find nothing to say a woman cannot issue a challenge." The man told them defeated.
"There must be some way to put a stop to this." Uther asked.
"According to the Knight's Rules, it appears her challenge is perfectly valid." Geoffrey pointed.
Arthur, who till now had his back turned to them, looked at them. "It seems there's nothing we can do." He spoke up.
"We don't know anything about this woman! I will not let you face her in combat!" Uther commanded.
"I accepted the challenge. If I refuse to fight, it'll be seen as an act of cowardice." The prince retorted back.
"She killed five guards. You should not underestimate her." Uther reasoned.
"I cannot demand that my knights uphold the code, then be seen to break it myself. I must face her tomorrow." Arthur announced.
From her window, Morgana watched Morgause practicing in the Square as she swung her sword.
"Who is she? Why would she challenge Arthur? It seems no one's ever heard of her." Gwen pointed.
"I feel as if I've met her somewhere before." Morgana replied.
"Really? Where could you know her from?" Gwen asked.
"I don't know." Morgana answered, her voice hesitant.
In Gaius's chambers, Alexia was pacing around as she thought about Morgause. The scenes where Morgause used Morgana as the source to her spell, those when she opened the veil of death. The times where Morgause led the attack to Camelot. The way she affected Morgana.
Alexia closed her eyes at the thought.
"I... I have to do something. I just have to do something!" She muttered to herself before she looked towards the door. Without any thought, the young girl ran from there passing corridors and gaurds, sneaking around as if it was second to her nature.
In Arthur's chambers, Merlin was mending Arthur's armour.
Merlin looked at Arthur, who was pacing around the room.
"Do you know why she challenged you?" Merlin asked. Arthur thought for a second.
"I'm the King's son. Perhaps she believed she will prove herself." Arthur replied.
"Yeah, but you don't want to fight her, do you?" Merlin asked, already knowing the answer.
"I have no choice. If I refuse to fight her, I'm a coward. If I kill her, what am I then?" the prince asked instead, before he leaned to the chair and looked at Merlin
"What is it?" He asked, observing the look on Merlin's face.
"You've never faced a woman in combat. What if you hesitate? She could use that to her advantage." Merlin asked softly thinking about what Alexia could tell him about the woman.
"You think she's going to defeat me." Arthur asked, more like demanded.
"I'm just saying. You need to be cautious, because it sounds like she's pretty handy with a sword." Merlin shrugged.
"Since when do you know anything about combat?" Arthur asked as he moved to window before he spoke again. "I need you to take a message to Morgause for me. If I'm seen to do it, it could be viewed as cowardice. You must persuade her to withdraw her challenge." Arthur told him seriously.
In dragon's cave, Alexia looked at the giant dragon sitting infront of her.
"What is it young witch?" He asked.
"Its... It's Morgause." Alexia replied before sighing.
"Ahh the high priestess." The dragon recognised, making Alexia frown.
"You know her?"
"I am a creature of old magic young witch, just like yourself and the young warlock. I can feel the changes of positions and powers." The dragon told the girl.
"Well, that is not a problem. Actually it is, but not right now. Morgause was the main person who turned Morgana into what she was. Morgana was pleased to have a sister and she cared for Morgause upto such extent that she will do everything for her. If.. if Morgana realised that Morgause is her sister, everything I have to done, everything, it will turn into ruins." The young witch said, her heart aching and her head throbbing.
"You show much less faith in the young seer and yourself young witch. The bond you share with her has surpassed the one she will ever create with Morgause." Kilgharrah chuckled deeply making Alexia look at him in shock.
"You... You actually accepted Morgana!" She mumbled. The look she received was definitely the best. It looked like the greatest dragon of it's kind has just sucked a lemon.
"I have seen her grow sincerely she was merely a young child. I have seen her destiny even before she was born. But I will be foolish to ignore that stars are changing. Trust in yourself young witch, for you have the power to make the history written in golden words." The giant beast admired.
Alexia felt her heart beat settling as she looked at him.
"But.. I... Thank you." She said at last, fumbling for a few minutes.
She turned to leave.
"Beware young witch, for heavy times are upon you. I can't tell you when, but I sense great danger to your life." He warned, making Alexia look at him. She nodded her head, respecting and acknowledging his warning, before she exited.
Merlin opened the door as he entered into Morgause's chambers. But he was cornered by Morgause and her sword.
"What do you want?" She asked angrily.
"I have a message from Prince Arthur. He wants you to withdraw your challenge. Arthur has no desire to fight you. Now, if you withdraw, he will grant you safe passage through the kingdom. Leave now, while you still can." Merlin answered.
Her eyes narrowed at that.
"If Arthur has no desire to fight me, perhaps he should withdraw." She stated, simply refusing to back down, but Merlin scoffed.
"No. He'll, he'll never do that. It's not in him to withdraw."
Morgause withdrew her sword. "Then we have that in common."
"If you fight him, he will have to treat you as he does any other opponent. It won't matter that you're a woman." Merlin pressed, trying to get her out of the fight.
"I do not ask for special treatment." Morgause stated simply.
"Arthur has no quarrel with you. Why would you challenge him?" Merlin asked, genuinely confused.
"My reasons are not your concern." Was the reply as the lady glared at him.
"Don't put Arthur in a position where he's forced to kill you." Merlin warned staring at her. Morgause returned the gaze.
"Who's to say Arthur's life won't rest in my hands?" She asked instead. Merlin just looked at her.
Alexia was now sitting on her bed, her legs drawn to her chest as she looked outside from the window, looking at the moon.
She couldn't help but feel disheartened. Things were just getting difficult. She can't help but wonder how things were when she was just a spectator of a show named 'Merlin'. Not a participant of it. Not the one who knew everything about future. Who knew what all decisions were going to lead to what. Because it was nothing like what the show made her believe. This wasn't just a fantasty. These were not only actors who would stand up the next second after being pierced by a sword, laughing as the scene was cut and the fake blood bag removed. This was real life. The knights, soldiers, gaurds, people were not going to stand back, not going to laugh and continue. They were dead, dead forever.
And Alexia felt her heart clenching at the thought. She knew it, she could help them, but she couldn't. Changing a single thing was enough to change everything. What was she supposed to do? When she had deaths of so many on her conscience?
What about all the deaths that will come when Morgause will finally show her true colours and will continue to attack Camelot?
She sighed. She can't ponder on these things. Because she had to be strong. For Camelot, for future.
Next morning, Uther walked into the stadiums as he moved to his thrown where Morgana was already standing. In the tent, Merlin and Alexia were readying Arthur for his fight.
"You gave her a chance to withdraw. Whatever happens, you are not to blame." Merlin reminded him.
Arthur just nodded, as he turned to exit.
"Arthur." Alexia called, making the prince look at her.
"Please be careful." Alexia said softly. Arthur rolled his eyes at her.
Arthur walked out into the grounds among the cheers of the crowd.
Uther stood up.
"The fight is by the Knights' Rules. And to the death." He announced as everyone cheered.
Arthur nodded before moving to Morgause.
"I'm offering you a final chance to withdraw. I suggest you take it." Morgause decided not to entertain the question with an answer as she just stared back.
"Then you leave me no choice." Arthur moved back to take his position.
The fight began as they striked blows at each other. They paused as they circled around before they parred again. With a heavy blow, Arthur made Morgause lose her sword, making Morgana gasp for some reason.
Arthur, who had his sword pointed at her, moved back allowing her to take it up back.
Everyone clapped at that.
They looked at each other again as the fight once again began.
This time, ending with Arthur on the ground and Morgause with her sword drawn to his chest.
Alexia covered her mouth with her hands as she gasped while Merlin nearly stepped into the grounds. Uther jumped in his seat as the crowd looked shocked.
Morgause pressed the sword to his heart, pinning him on ground, before she removed her helmet.
"Make me a promise and I will spare your life." She whispered so only Arthur could hear.
"What is it you ask?" Arthur questioned.
"Come to me three days hence and accept the challenge I set to you." Morgause stated simply.
"And the nature of this challenge?"
"That is for me to decide. Do I have your word that you will accept, no matter what?" She asked again.
"You have my word." Arthur promised after a few moments.
Morgause removed her sword and offered her hand to him. Arthur took it as he stood up. Uther sighed in relief. She moved forward and Uther stood up. She bowed to him before she left. Aware of Morgana's eyes following her.
In her chambers, Gaius was tending to Morgause's wounded arm.
"You're fortunate the wound isn't too deep. You seems familiar. Have you visited Camelot in the past?" He asked.
"I was here many years ago. I was just a baby at the time. I doubt you'd remember me. I'm grateful for your help." Morgause answered as she nodded her thanks at him. He leaves after he noticed the bracelet on her wrist.
Arthur was now slumped on his table as Merlin tried to unbuckle his armour.
"It could've been worse." Merlin tried.
"How, exactly, could it have been worse?" Arthur fumed.
"You could be dead." Alexia suggested as she polished his sword.
"At least I wouldn't have to face everyone. I've never felt so humiliated in my entire life. I was defeated by a girl." Arthur deadpanned. Making Alexia smile a bit.
'It's actually quite funny when you think about it." Merlin laughed before he spotted the look on Arthur's face and immediately sobered. "Or not."
"No." Arthur suddenly looked up. "It's like you said. I was hindered because I was fighting a woman. I was worried I was going to hurt her. That's why she won." He said finally. Merlin frowned and Alexia rolled her eyes.
"You didn't look hindered... I'll stop talking now." Merlin backtracked as he saw the murderous glare from the prince. But Alexia scoffed.
"Whatever let's you sleep at night, baby prince." She mocked before quickly ducking the chalice thrown at her. In retort, she stuck out her tongue at him.
Morgana knocked on the door before she entered. She looked around when she found Morgause dressed in a tunic and trousers, who came forward.
"I didn't mean to intrude. I wanted to introduce myself. I'm the Lady Morgana." Morgana introduced herself.
"I know who you are." Morgause said, her eyes showing the yearning she was feeling.
"How is your arm? You were wounded." Morgana asked in her usual concerned voice.
"It'll heal soon enough. You look tired." Morgause pointed.
"I haven't been sleeping." Morgana replied as she thought about yesternight. Since after seeing Morgause, her heart wasn't at rest.
"I know for myself how troubling that can be." Morgause replied.
"Could it be that we've met somewhere before?" Morgana asked finally.
But Morgause just shook her head.
"I'm glad we have met now." She replied instead.
"That's a beautiful bracelet." The king's ward praised as she looked at it.
"It was a gift. From my mother." She told her before she removed it from her hand. "Please, I would like you to have it. It's a healing bracelet. It will help you sleep." Morgause told her as she offered it to her.
Morgana shook her head. "I couldn't. You must be tired. I will leave you to rest."
"I hope you will remember me fondly." Morgause said quickly, Morgana gave a nod.
At night, Morgana was sleeping in her chambers as she moved a bit. Morgause looked at her before raising the bracelet. She was about to chant when someone grabbed her arm and startled her. She looked around to find Alexia, who dragged her out of the room. Morgause tried to free herself from the grip but Alexia held it firmly as she pushed her into an empty chamber.
"I know who you are." She said as she saw Morgause charging at her.
Morgause stopped before glaring at her.
"I am going to warn you just one single time Morgause. Stay away from Camelot and Morgana." Alexia warned, pointing her finger at Morgause's face.
Morgause scoffed.
"She is my sister." She pointed.
"So she is. I will not deny it. But I, as well as, cannot deny that your intentions regarding her are neither kind nor pure for her. Remember it Morgause, Camelot is my home and Morgana is my friend. I will not rest untill I dig your grave if you even tried to look at any of them with your vile eyes. Drop your plan and leave as soon as you can." Alexia glared at her as she moved back to leave.
Morgause created a ball of pure magic as she fired it at Alexia, who vanished it with just a wave of her hand.
"I am not going to be so forgiving next time Morgause." She threatened before she left, leaving a startled Morgause behind.
Morning arrived, Morgause could be seen at the gates, ready to depart as she prepared her horse for her travel.
At that moment, Arthur lead his horse out of the drawbridge gate, he saw Morgause and stopped.
"Congratulations on your victory. You're a skilful swordsman. Woman. Swords... swordswoman." He fumbled as he thought what he shall call her.
But Morgause didn't seem to mind as she moved towards his horse. Placing her hand on its nuzzle.
"You have a beautiful horse." She praised making Arthur look at his horse. Morgause's eyes glowed as she looked at the horse before she stepped back.
"I shall expect to see you three days hence." She said, looking at him
"How will I find you?" He asked.
"When the time comes, you will know your way." Was the reply before Morgause moved back to her horse.
"If I don't show up it might be because I don't know where I'm going." Arthur forewarned her, making the high priestess look at him.
"The path you must follow will become clear to you." The lady clarified as she mounted her horse.
"I should thank you for allowing me to retrieve my sword." She said, appreciating the move.
"I'm starting to wish I hadn't." Arthur grumbled.
"You showed yourself to be a man of honour. You inherited that trait from your mother." Morgause divulged as she looked at him.
This caught Arthur's attention. "You knew my mother?" He asked.
"I knew her very well." She replied before taking off.
"Wait!" His shouts went in deaf ears as Morgause didn't stop.
In Morgana's chambers, Gwen was seen waking her up. This was becoming a recent habit as since Morgana started accepting her magic and practicing her meditation, she was definitely able to sleep peacefully. This was also helped by the lack of presence of Morgause.
Morgana rubbed her eyes as she woke up.
"How much time is it Gwen?" She mumbled.
"It's nearly mid-day." Gwen smiled.
Morgana just chuckled.
"I definitely love my sleep." She replied with a smile making Gwen laugh.
"I will fetch you some clothes." Gwen said before leaving.
Morgana groaned as she sat up, her eyes catching the bracelet at the end of her table.
Her eyes squinted as she looked at the bracelet in confusion.
Arthur rushed to his chambers, opening the doors with a bang as he removed his jacket.
"You don't look well." Alexia said as she moved to him, Merlin following her.
"I have to talk to my father immediately." He replied.
"What for?" Merlin asked, now confused. Arthur rolled his eyes.
"I have to tell him about Morgause. She knew my mother, I have to leave for the challenge." He told them as he moved back to door.
Alexia looked deep in her thoughts at that. So Morgause didn't heed her warning. It meant one thing, she also would have left the bracelet. She had to talk to her. Her thoughts were broken when Merlin spoke up.
"Don't you think it will be best if you don't tell him where you are going? I mean as much as I know him... he won't allow you to leave." Merlin shrugged as he moved back to his work, but his words definitely affected Arthur.
"You do have some brains." He mumbled as he thought about it.
Night arrived as Alexia knocked on Morgana's doors. The lady opened the door, beaming at Alexia as she allowed her in.
"How are you Morgana?" Alexia asked, sitting on the bed as Morgana motioned her.
Morgana gave a confused smile.
"As well as ever. Why do you ask?" She asked as she took her seat beside her.
"I... It's just..." Her eyes fell on the bracelet Morgana wore. "This bracelet?" She moved to touch it before her fingers felt a sudden jolt, making her back away.
"Alexia!" Morgana yelped seeing the witch jump.
"What happened?" She asked.
"Who gave you this bracelet Morgana?" Alexia asked instead.
"It... It was Morgause's." The seer answered as she looked at it with a frown.
"Will you please remove it?" Alexia asked and Morgana complied, without any questions.
Alexia hovered her hand above the bracelet, as she made some random but difficult patterns.
Her eyes widened when she recognised the spells and charms applied on it.
She took a deep breath.
The bond you share with her has surpassed the one she will ever create with Morgause.
"Morgana, I believe it's time I tell you something that you don't know." Alexia said softly, holding her hands. Morgana grew tense as she recognised the tone. It was similar to one she used when she first told her about her magic.
"I don't know if I am the right person to tell you about this or not, but during the great purge, there was one another child born to the great house of Gorlois." Alexia spoke up softly, remembering everything she knew.
Morgana looked at her wide eyed.
"It was Morgause. I know it may sound absurd, but Morgause, she is your sister Morgana." The witch told her making Morgana gasp.
The lady took a shaking breath.
"I.. I knew I had some connection with her.. she... I..." She trailed off as she took deep breaths. Alexia was quick to move to her and embrace her.
"Yes Morgana, she has the relation of blood with you, but do not forget every blood relation is not kind and loving." Alexia reminded her making the seer frown.
"What do you mean?" Morgana asked parting from her.
"Morgana, you are kind and compassionate, and also one of the most powerful magic users. Morgause, she is hateful, she has hated Uther forever and that hatred is now extended to Camelot. In her revenge of the great purge, of the injustice done to her, she wants to rule Camelot. And for that, she needs you. Her intentions for you are not generous Morgana. Her hatred for Uther and Camelot, far surpasses her love for you. You are a mere tool to her." Alexia whispered as she explained everything to her.
She couldn't help but feel sorry for the young witch. She could see the hope that formed in her eyes, before it was crushed and now the emotions were swirling in her crystal green eyes. Morgana was heartbroken, but she had to hear this. Otherwise Morgause would have once again succeeded in making Morgana the hateful sorceress as she was remembered in history. Alexia still remembered how Morgause placed her in danger, making her the container of a spell. Her hatred for Camelot and Uther surpassed everything, even her own life, as she remembered how she sacrificed herself to the veil of death, in mere hopes to destroy Camelot in her last breaths. That hatred was not something Morgana should be even near of, much less participate in it.
Morgana suddenly stood up.
"No.. no Alexia. You are wrong. How do you know that? You might be mistaken Alexia, she left this healing bracelet for me. She is my sister, how can you say that?" Morgana cried as her voice wavered and Alexia felt her heart breaking at the scene.
"It's in the bracelet Morgana, it is not mere healing bracelet, it has several layers of compulsions and spells and charms, all there to affect your soul! Morgause wanted to water the hate you have for Uther and raise it to such level where you wouldn't want anything except Camelot's destruction. You might even had made an enemy of Arthur as well!" Alexia emphasized.
Her knees buckled and before she knew, she touched the ground. Her eyes blurred as tears dropped from her them. Morgana wailed, as her brain comprehended what all Alexia told her. Her own sister, her own blood wanted her as a mere tool. The hatred her sister held, she wanted to pass it on to her. She would have lost herself with all those compulsions. She would have lost everything she ever stood for just because of her blind trust in Morgause. She wouldn't have been the one to stand for right and do everything for justice, her only aim would have been to destroy those who stand against her. Morgana shivered at the thought. She didn't want to be like this, she wanted to be loved, to be cherished. This wasn't how it was supposed to be.
Alexia saw the royal lady breaking down in front of her. She moved to hug her, embracing her as Morgana cried in her arms. She leaned against the bed, making herself and Morgana comfortable who was so lost and broken at that moment. The young seer clung to her as she cried while Alexia rubbed her back, soothing her.
One thing was sure, Morgause was going to pay for what she had done to Morgana as well as what she was going to do with Arthur.
Next morning, Arthur, Merlin and Alexia could be seen riding among the woods. Alexia's mind went back to last night, where she had to put Morgana on bed and put a mild sleeping charm on her. The poor lady was distraught and definitely needed rest, but now Alexia had to take care of the prince as well. Lack of her time with Merlin also wasn't helping as the walock was totally clueless of what they were going to face. And Alexia didn't want to risk it infront of Arthur, who, after lying to his father about going to a hunt, was now dragging them with him. It wasn't like they wouldn't have followed him anyway.
Her thoughts were broken when they paused. She looked ahead to find they were at a fork.
"Which way?" Merlin asked as he looked at the prince who was watching the two roads. "Do you actually know where we're going?" He asked mockingly, not that Arthur noticed, making Alexia roll her eyes. But it appeared Arthur had decided as he motioned to the left.
"It's this way." He said kicking his horse, but it didn't move. "Come on." He kicked again, but the horse just neighed and didn't even move. Merlin looked at Alexia, who was silently chuckling but shrugged at him. "What is wrong with this horse? It's even dumber than you, Merlin!" Arthur snapped but now the horse decided to move as he took the right path.
Merlin looked confused. "Where are you going? I thought you said it was left?" He asked.
"It's not me! It's the horse! Morgause told me. When the time comes, you'll know your way." He said as he looked back at them as they shared a look.
"So the horse knows where we're going. Great." Merlin commented sarcastically as he rolled his eyes while Alexia sighed at the pair.
As they ride through the woods, Merlin decided to question him. "What if Morgause challenges you to do something you don't want to do?" He asked.
"I'm not expecting it to be easy, Merlin. That's why it's called a challenge." Arthur replied in a 'duh' tone.
"So you'd do anything she asks of you?" Merlin asked.
"I gave her my word. It's a question of honour." Arthur answered back.
"What if she challenges you to do something even less honourable than breaking your word?" Merlin asked again and Alexia laughed this time.
"Will you stop rabbitting on? We're in Odin's territory. We could be attacked at any second." Arthur rebuked.
"I just think it's strange to agree to do something when you don't know what it is." Merlin thought out loud, keeping his opinion.
"One more word out of you, Merlin, and you'll be taking the challenge in my place." Arthur warned.
But suddenly an arrow made its way towards them, passing just infront of Merlin, making the boy grunt and the horse jump. Merlin fell of his horse while Alexia and Arthur became aware of the surroundings.
Both climbed down from their horses and unsheathed their swords before tackling the soldiers.
Merlin looked at them from his place on the ground before a man decided to attack him, Merlin tried to back off as he saw the man swing his axe before two daggers strike him on his back. Merlin looked aside to find both Arthur and Alexia with their hands stretched towards the man making him realise that both fired their own daggers.
Alexia and Arthur too realised this as they quickly swung their swords and prepared for the attack.
As they were fighting, they didn't notice the man sitting at the tree with a lance preparing to attack them, but Merlin caught him.
He looked at the man before chanting, "Gar onbærne." Making the lance lit up with fire as he screamed and fell off.
Arthur and Alexia finished the other attackers before looking around, making sure they were clear now. Finally Arthur's eyes fell on Merlin who was looking around cautioned.
"Don't worry, Merlin. I'll deal with this, you lie there, make yourself comfortable." Arthur mocked, breathing hard before turning while Alexia moved to him and made him stand.
"Thank you." She whispered with a soft smile, knowing well what he did. Merlin just nodded.
"Maybe we should turn back. The woods could be full of Odin's men." Merlin suggested as he held his horse.
"You can go back if you want to, I won't stop you." Arthur pointed.
"You don't know anything about Morgause! You don't know what she's gonna ask you to do! We don't even know where we're going, we're following a horse!" Merlin yelled, exasperated.
"Morgause said she knew my mother." Arthur replied simply, making both Merlin and Alexia stop.
Merlin, Alexia and Arthur were sitting around a camp fire. Merlin looked at Arthur thoughtfully before he asked.
"What was your mother like?" Hearing Merlin's voice, Arthur looked up, before shrugging slightly.
"I never knew her. She died before I opened my eyes." He answered. Alexia stayed quiet.
"I'm sorry." Merlin apologised as he felt how much this all affected him.
"I barely know anything about her." Arthur said.
Merlin then thought about something.
"Can't you ask your father?" Alexia contained her scoff as she thought how Uther never told Arthur the truth of great purge.
"He refuses to talk about her. It must be too painful for him. Sometimes it's as if she never even existed. I still have a sense of her. Almost as though she's part of me."
Alexia looked at him, understanding his pain. Arthur loved his mother, even if he never saw her, and it really made her upset that Morgause was setting things like this, playing with his emotions. But she knew she couldn't even stop Arthur as he was set to find something, anything about his mother.
That was when Merlin spoke up.
"That's the same with my father. I never knew him. And my mother's barely spoken of him. I've got this...vague memory. It's probably just my imagination." Merlin thought about it, a ghost of a smile lingering on his face. Alexia stopped her thoughts at that, thinking about Merlin and his father. Maybe, maybe she could save him. Maybe she could make Kilgharrah understand.
"I'd do anything for even the vaguest memory." Arthur stated.
"Is that why you're so determined to find Morgause? To see what she knows about your mother?" Merlin asked.
"Is that so wrong?" He questioned back.
"No." The warlock said softly.
Arthur turned to Alexia.
"What about you?" He asked, trying to distract himself. Alexia raised a questioning brow.
"Your parents, or your family?" He asked.
Alexia just gave a small shrug and a smile, but surprisingly both Merlin and Arthur noticed it wasn't real. They couldn't help but think how Alexia was being more quiet nowadays, and they were really missing the old Alexia. Merlin knew it was because of the witchfinder, but still he couldn't do anything, except to support her.
"Well, one thing I know about them is, I will never be able to see them again." She said as she stood up.
"You should rest Arthur, we don't know what challenge it might be." The witch said, before moving back and leaning near a tree.
Arthur stared at her, before following her lead and finding a place to rest.
Merlin sighed as he thought about how things were changing.
As they continued on their way, the trio finally reached at the end of a lake, with a waterfall.
Merlin looked around.
"It seems your horse has brought us to a dead end." Merlin pointed obviously.
But Arthur's horse didn't stop as it walked forward to the water.
"Now where's he going?" Arthur asked, irritated.
"I think he's going to get wet." Merlin joked.
"You don't say." Arthur warned as his horse continued to walk forward in the lake.
"It's Morgause Merlin. She is a high priestess." Alexia finally said as they got a minute alone.
"What? Another one?" He asked, thinking about Nimueh.
Alexia gave a grave nod.
"The next few moments will be Arthur's most horrible ones. We have to follow." She said as she saw Arthur reaching mid of the lake.
The trio pass the waterfall, getting wet as they proceeded.
Before passing a tunnel and entering the woods, only to find a castle standing there in all its glory. Arthur stood there staring at the enchanted castle.
They moved forward with their horses, searching for an entrance.
"Where are we?" Merlin asked.
"I don't know." Came the reply.
"If we weren't sure Morgause was a sorcerer before, we can be certain of it now." Merlin commented.
"That must've been how she defeated me. She was using magic." Arthur guessed, giving an excuse to his defeat.
Merlin thought for a moment. "Hmm, it didn't look like she was."
"And what would you know about magic, Merlin?" Arthur mocked. Merlin looked at Alexia giving her a sly smile.
"Nothing." He said with a shake of his head, as Alexia smirked at that.
They stopped infront of the entrance, before unmounting their horses.
As the trio strolled forward, they found themselves in an empty courtyard which contained a mere axe and block of wood.
"Now what?" Arthur asked out loud as he swung the axe, placing it back on the block.
"Maybe we should ask the horse. Well, there's no one here." Merlin replied, his tone sarcastic. But Alexia was just staring at the stairs where she knew Morgause was going to appear. And just like her thoughts, Morgause descended the stairs.
"You kept your promise." She said, looking at Arthur and ignoring Alexia's glare.
"What is the nature of the challenge you wish to set me?" Arthur asked.
"Place your head on the block." She said as she picked up the axe.
Arthur looked at the lady as if she was mad.
"You gave me your word that you would do anything I asked." Morgause reminded him.
Arthur looked thoughtful at that.
"Arthur, don't." Both Merlin and Alexia warned. But the prince didn't heed their words as he knelt to place his head on the block.
"What are you doing? I won't let you do this!" Merlin shouted.
"Stay out of this, Merlin!" Arthur shouted back.
"Stop Morgause. I am warning you. Whatever plans you have, drop them. Or I swear to every diety that I will skin you alive." Alexia warned, her eyes blazing but Morgause wasn't fazed by it, too confident in her own plan.
"Shut up Alexia." Arthur told her as he quitened.
Alexia groaned as she prepared herself, if Morgause did anything to harm Arthur. The lady began to swing the axe before she put it down.
"You have shown that you are truly a man of your word, Arthur Pendragon, and for that I will grant you one wish. Tell me what it is that your heart most desires." Morgause asked, smiling softly at him, but Alexia really wasn't deceived by it.
"You said you knew my mother. Tell me all that you know about her." Arthur said, eagerly.
"Perhaps you would like to see her." The high priestess offered.
"I want that more than anything." He breathed out.
"As you wish." She said.
Merlin, Alexia and Arthur stood inside the castle walls, waiting for Morgause to prepare her spell.
"Are you sure you want to do this?" Merlin asked.
"If you were granted the same opportunity, would you not want to meet your father?" He asked, as if that answered his question, which probably did.
"Uther won't forgive you if he finds out you've collaborated with a sorcerer." Alexia reminded him.
"What if my father's attitude to magic is wrong?" Arthur asked.
"You really think that?" Merlin asked, and Alexia could feel hope shining in his eyes
"Perhaps it's not as simple as he would have us believe. Morgause is a sorcerer, she has caused us no harm. Surely not everyone who practices magic can be evil." Arthur said thoughtfully.
"We don't actually know why she's doing this Arthur. For all we know, she might have planned something out of her show. Of kindness." Alexia cautioned.
But before Arthur could think, Morgause spoke up.
"It is time." She called. Extending her hand to Arthur, she called him to her. Arthur moved and held his hand. "Close your eyes." She said as he complied. "Arásae mid min miclan mihte þín suna to helpe. Hider eft funde on þisse ne middangeard þín suna w'æs." She chanted and Merlin watched as everything slowed down, it was as if time stopped and nature bloomed.
"Arthur." A soft voice echoed around, entering Arthur's ears.
The prince opened his eyes as he breathed heavily. Infront of him stood a beautiful blonde woman.
"Arthur." She called again.
"Mother." Arthur breathed out.
"My son." She whispered, crying before she rushed to him and enveloped him in her arms.
"When I last held you, you were a tiny baby." She whispered before stepping back as she held his shoulders, looking at him with longing. "I remember your eyes. You were staring up at me. Those few seconds I held you were the most precious of my life." She gushed, placing her hand on his cheek.
Arthur gulped as he looked at her.
"I'm so sorry." The prince apologised, shaking his head lightly.
Ygraine shook her own head at that. "You have nothing to be sorry for." The queen consoled him.
"It was my birth that caused you to die." Arthur pointed as he felt guilty churning in his stomach.
"No, you are not to blame." Ygraine denied heatedly.
"I cannot bear the thought that you died because of me." Arthur retorted back.
"Do not think that. It is your father who should carry the guilt for what happened." She hugged him at that.
But the words baffled the prince.
"What do you mean?"
"It is not important. What matters is that you lived." She tried, but Arthur was adamant as he stepped back, the question already rolling of his tongue.
"Why should my father feel guilty?"
Ygraine just sighed. "It is better left in the past."
"You cannot leave me with more questions. Please." Arthur begged.
"Your father, he was desperate for an heir. Without a son, the Pendragon dynasty would come to an end. But I could not conceive." She told him.
"But how was I born? Tell me." He asked, really confused.
Ygraine sighed. "Your father betrayed me. He went to the sorceress Nimueh and asked for her help in conceiving a child... You were born of magic." She divulged, staring at him.
Shock coursed through his veins as he looked at his mother. His breathing became shallower as he looked at her, on verge of crying.
"That's not true." He denied immediately, but the protests sounded weak to his own ears. Ygraine must have felt that too as she just moved to him.
"I'm sorry, Arthur. Your father has deceived you as he deceived me. To create a life, a life must be taken. Your father knew that."
"No." The prince gasped, taking a step back. Merlin and Alexia looked worried at that.
"He sacrificed my life so the Pendragon dynasty could continue. It makes you no less my son, nor me any less proud of you. Now I see you, I would have given my life willingly. Do not let this knowledge change you." Ygraine pleaded as she caressed his cheek. While Arthur just shook his head closing his eyes. But as he looked up, his mother was gone.
"No!" He shouted, looking at Morgause. "Bring her back!" He said.
"I cannot." The high priestess replied. "Once the doorway is closed, it is closed forever." She explained before moving towards him. "I am truly sorry that your learnt of your mother's fate in this way. I can only imagine how it must feel to discover your father is responsible for her death. It is an unforgivable betrayal." She apologized before leaving.
Merlin and Alexia watched her leave, before looking back at Arthur.
"Are you alright?" He asked, but there was no reply. "Arthur?" He called out.
"Fetch the horses. We're returning to Camelot." He said simply before he turned to leave.
Merlin looked at Alexia.
"We have to deal with this before we make it back to Camelot." She told him. Merlin nodded.
As they were back in the borders of Camelot, Alexia couldn't help but think about the conversation, replaying it in her head. It was all fake. The lady wasn't Ygraine, but a ploy. She had to stop Arthur before he reached back. It won't do any good for Uther to be aware of his son knowing the truth. She couldn't start a war between the son and father. But she couldn't even let it dismiss like the first time. Arthur had to know the truth.
She looked up and saw Arthur was still in a trance. She knew he wasn't going to stop unless he killed his father and had his revenge. Morgause definitely played her pawns brilliantly. But Alexia wasn't going to accept defeat.
So she screamed.
"Ahh!" The scream bought attention of not only the warlock but the prince as well who quickly looked at her.
"Alexia!" Merlin asked, moving to her.
Alexia just moaned in pain, looking at Merlin, before giving him a small wink, making him understand.
"Alexia! Are you fine?" He asked getting off his horse, before helping her down.
But instead of answering, Alexia just continued to groan and scream. Arthur, who now was growing quite worried, got off his own horse before moving to her.
The girl, who now had her back leaned against the tree, looked up at the prince.
"Arthur!" She gasped as she held his hand and pulled him, making him stumble to the ground.
"What in the world is the meaning of this?" He grunted, trying to get up, but Alexia held his arm. She looked at him, the pain vanished from her face, but instead she was looking at him with sadness.
"Arthur, you have to talk." She said softly, and Arthur's features hardened. He glared at her.
"You tricked me?" His voice had now gained a dangerous edge but Alexia knew it had to be done. Merlin came and sat infront of the prince.
"We had to. You weren't going to stop otherwise." He answered, his own face pained.
Arthur glared at them both, and this time, it wasn't a mocking glare, but a real one.
"Why?"
"What are you going to do as soon as you return to Camelot?" Alexia asked.
The prince just turned his head.
"I don't have time for this."
"Arthur!" Alexia shouted, making him stop.
She moved to him, before cupping his cheeks.
"I know you are angry. I know you are hurt. But you need to think about it. Don't you think this is all planned? A mysterious knight appeared and challenged you to duel of death. But when you fought, she released you even when she had to kill you. But instead she asked for your word about an unknown challenge. She knew you had to agree, for you were as noble as anyone can be. The challenge was stupidest one I have ever seen. What did she want to prove with that ploy? I can't even understand. But she just wanted to create such curiousity in your mind about your mother, that whenever she asked you for a wish, you will ask for your mother. She knew it Arthur! And she played with your emotions. She couldn't have really called your mother back! Since calling dead back is not that easy. She wanted you against your father! Just think about it." Alexia pressed as she looked at him.
Arthur stared at her, as his eyes filled up with millions of emotions. Anger, rage, confusion, longing, sadness, pain, all this things swirled like a cyclone in those brilliant blue orbs.
"Then what was that?" He breathed out, his voice wavering.
"She knew something Arthur, and she exaggerated it." Merlin said it this time.
Arthur and Alexia looked at him.
Merlin placed a hand on Arthur's shoulder.
Alexia's gaze returned back to Arthur.
"She knew the truth of your birth Arthur. I am sure about it. But she also exaggerated it. Yes you were born from magic, but your father did not betrayed your mother. It was their decision. For they wanted to become parents, not just have an heir. Becoming a parent is biggest gift a couple could have, they just wanted that. They didn't want you to be there to just continue the dynasty, your father and mother wanted to have a child of their own, the one who would be symbol of their love. The one who will be their own. I can feel Ygraine's pain when she would have gotten to know she can't be a mother. It would have broken her down. So when she found an opportunity to give birth to her own child, she would have definitely jumped at it. And I can't say what they did was wrong, because I would have done same thing." Alexia said softly.
"They loved you Arthur! Your father still loves you the most. You can't question him when it was a mere sight of your limp body that freed him from the most powerful of enchantments. You are his biggest treasure Arthur. And I am sure he loved your mother just like he loves you." Merlin whispered softly, and Alexia saw Arthur was breaking through his mask. This was the first time she ever saw him like that. He was looking so vulnerable.
"She wanted you to fight your father, to destroy your relation with you father. But I can assure, there won't be a day your father didn't miss your mother. He started a whole great purge after her death. Surely he would have loved her with all his heart. So when he was betrayed by Nimueh, he started executing those he thought guilty, it took an ugly turn and I know about it. But he was grieving and he couldn't think clearly. The confusion harboured his hate for magic and the new laws of Camelot came into existence. I know he was wrong to do so. But never doubt Arthur, that he didn't love you or your mother." Alexia told him and it was the first time she saw Arthur's self control breaking, she saw him crying, crying like a mere baby. Merlin looked at the prince and his heart clenched at that.
He couldn't help but move a bit closer and place a supporting hand on Arthur's shoulder. Alexia too got closer as she wrapped her arms around him, enclosing him as if hiding him from the world, from the pain, just like a protective mother, or an elder sister. Merlin to found himself embracing Arthur as he cried his eyes out. Arthur too was a human, a boy who was always taught to suppress his emotions, but sometimes, the burden became too much. It had to be released and this was that time.
And just like this, the trio found their comfort in each other, forming a bond which could never be broken ever. The foundation of Albion was now laid, even if the obstacles to complete it would be too much to bear, they will still rise from it, completing their destinies.
Nobody knew how much time passed like that, but when they were finally able to hold themselves back Arthur couldn't help but feel angry at the sorceress, who played with his emotions. He couldn't help but think how magic nearly destroyed his whole life, but he couldn't also help but feel about how he was going to face his father. Off course he was angry at them, but he now understood why they did that. Nimueh betrayed them and his mother's life. Once again proving, how magic was evil.
He cleared his throat, breaking the trance of his two servants, who were now sitting each at his side, looking at sky, deep in their own thoughts. Dusk was falling and night was about to fall, and they had to reach Camelot before that.
Both Alexia and Merlin looked at the prince, to find him standing in front of them.
"We shall start moving back to Camelot." He pointed and they both nodded, standing up.
As they were about to climb up their horses, Arthur called them.
"Merlin, Alexia." The said beings looked at the prince.
"If anyone got to know about today..." He left the threat open making them laugh as they gave a nod. The three stared at each other, before they started laughing as they continued on their journey.
And here ends the chapter! How was it? Did you all like it? Don't forget to drop your reviews as they definitely cheer me up. Its lovely to read all the inspiring comments and try to do better each time.
I hope you all are liking the story line and how I am weaving it. Thank you everyone! We will now meet on 23rd January. Till then, stay safe and happy.