Chapter 13 Friendship

A/N: Edited and revised May 2021

As autumn colors flourished and Samhain was swiftly approaching, Arthur declared that the winter stores required replenishing, and that he and the knights of the round table were privileged to do it. Merlin suspected that Arthur's sudden drive to replenish the winter stores himself had more to do with Gwen's recent craving for fresh roasted venison than any real need. However, Arthur was determined to give Guinevere anything she desired, whether the queen admitted to wanting it or not. Merlin had grumbled at the prospect of hunting so close to winter, though he couldn't very well let Arthur go off on his own into the Darkling Woods with Mordred and Alvarr's whereabouts unknown.

Thus, Merlin found himself deep within the forest, stirring a pot of stew over a campfire instead of dining with Morgana in their chambers. All complaints aside, Merlin had decided that hunting as Arthur's brother-in-law was much more tolerable than as the king's manservant. Though Merlin still set up camp and cooked for the group, he wasn't piled down with all of Arthur's weapons, nor was he left to drag the carcasses across the forest. And best of all, Arthur, Leon, Percival, Elyan, and Gwaine each took care of their own kills. Not having to skin and clean five deer carcasses in addition to everything else he did was enough to significantly brighten Merlin's outlook on being included in the hunting party. Even if he was separated from his wife.

Though Morgana had often insisted on accompanying them on patrols and other hunting excursions, she hadn't protested the suggestion that she remain in Camelot to protect the city and Guinevere. Merlin had been utterly surprised, but pleased nonetheless. He had prepared himself to argue with Morgana to convince her to stay behind. Merlin hadn't relished the prospect, though, as he'd seen first-hand how his wife would respond to such a suggestion.

Merlin hadn't realised that Arthur would take to heart his playful challenge for the king to tell Morgana to slow down. Morgana had balked at Arthur's recommendation at supper nearly three weeks previously that she ought to tone down her training. When Morgana had refused, arguing that she was a stronger fighter than all of Arthur's knights, the king had stammered that she had to consider that she was now a married woman of childbearing age. Merlin had been forced to intervene after Morgana pointed at Arthur and threatened to finish the job goblin started and turn the king into the ass that he was.

Merlin smiled fondly at the memory and felt a pang at Morgana's absence. He realised as he and the hunting party were riding out the day before that he and Morgana hadn't spent a single night apart since they'd been dragonfasted. He hadn't realised how dependent he'd become on Morgana's warm presence beside him in their feather bed. At least, he hadn't until he lay awake in his bedroll that night, alone and shivering and unable to fall asleep. Likewise, Merlin knew that Morgana had been nervous of what her dreams would hold without him there to keep them at bay or comfort her when they still came. Yet Morgana had kissed him farewell and stood stoically beside Gwen as the two women watched their husbands prepare to leave for three days and two nights.

Regardless of her initial vehement protest to Arthur's suggestion, Morgana had been slowing down lately. In the last week especially, she had observed training almost as often as she had participated during the previous weeks, and she'd been attempting fewer power-draining spells. Even so, Morgana had nearly fallen asleep sitting up while Merlin was brushing her hair three nights previous.

Though she hadn't shown any of the same signs as Gwen, Merlin had his suspicions that Morgana was with child. The prospect never failed to produce a huge smile on his face, considering that not long ago, he had despaired at the prospect of being forever alone. Morgana had scoffed when Merlin voiced his suspicions. His wife had said that his theory was absurd, that she didn't feel nauseous as Gwen still was, she just hadn't been sleeping well.

Yet Merlin knew that Morgana had been sleeping deeper than was normal and she had been harder to rouse come morning for the last three weeks. Not to mention that the typical nausea had been superseded by a rather telling increase in appetite. Most convincing of all, though, was the knowing glint in Hunith's eye whenever she looked at Morgana. Therefore, Merlin was hopeful that Morgana's unprotesting agreement to stay back in Camelot was proof that her subconscious knew, even if she was still in denial.

"So quiet, Merlin," Percival commented jovially as he and the other knights and Arthur sat around the fire circle while Merlin tended to the supper pot.

"He's missing Morgana," Elyan teased good-naturedly. Merlin smiled but chose not to comment. It was true and denying it would be pointless.

"Come on Merlin, enjoy some time with your mates," Gwaine prodded.

"I am enjoying some time with my mates," Merlin grumbled dryly.

"Come on Merlin, it's been nearly four months since you married Morgana-"

"Well those first couple months were not exactly what I would call easy," Merlin interrupted. Arthur ignored the excuse and spoke over Merlin's half-hearted protests.

"Not to mention that the two of you have been sneaking off every chance you get- do not think we hadn't noticed!" Arthur said, pointing his finger accusingly at a sheepish Merlin. "I had just three weeks after I married Guinevere before I was off doing my duty to my kingdom. Did you see me all sulky and melancholy?"

"Yes," the knights answered immediately. Arthur narrowed his eyes and grunted indignantly as the knights laughed. Merlin looked at him with sympathy, though he nodded his agreement with the knights.

"Very funny," Arthur said snarkily. "Regardless of what these cabbage-heads think, I was not as bad as you, Merlin."

"That's my word," Merlin replied, avoiding the question.

"And yet it fits them so well," Arthur said, glaring ineffectually at his men with narrowed eyes, causing the chortling knights to snort into their fists. "What is it that has you all ruffled? I'm not going to let it go until you tell us, Merlin."

"Yes, Merlin, tell us how much you miss your wife," Gwaine teased.

"Why are you all picking on me? Arthur was the one calling for Gwen in his sleep last night!"

"Because he's the king," Leon argued. Arthur grinned triumphantly, waiting for Merlin to respond. Merlin remained stubbornly silent.

"And you were the one tossing and turning all night. You've never had trouble sleeping while camping; you've always been the one to sleep like the dead, even on the ground," Gwaine pointed out.

"And you've not been chattering our ears off," Elyan added.

"And you hold too much inside," Percival said somberly. The warlock blinked at the irony of Percival, the most pensive man he had ever met, telling him that he held too much inside.

Merlin opened his mouth to protest, but cut himself off as everyone nodded their agreement. Merlin grunted and started ladling stew into their bowls instead. Silence permeated the camp as the men hungrily devoured the soup. Then, after a burp of thanks, Gwaine began again.

"So Merlin, tell us all about it. Do you miss braiding her hair?"

Merlin sighed. Of course Arthur had told them.

"You would braid your wife's hair, too, if she thanked you like mine does." Merlin frowned in false sympathy. "Ooh, sorry... you don't have a wife."

Arthur grimaced at the implications behind Merlin's deflection, though the knights all hooted at Merlin's taunt. Gwaine smiled knowingly.

"You are a sly one aren't you? You almost succeeded in changing the subject," Gwaine said, raising an eyebrow invitingly.

Merlin wondered if they would help him to convince Morgana to take things easier if he voiced his suspicions to them. Though there was every possibility that she would just turn him into an ass as well as anyone else who tried to support him.

"Merlin..." Gwaine cajoled. Giving up, Merlin said the last thing they expected.

"I think Morgana's with child."

Arthur blinked, unsure of how to respond.

"You think? How does that work?" Gwaine asked, confused. Merlin raised his eyebrow teasingly.

"It happens when a man and a woman-" he began. Gwaine rolled his eyes.

"I think I get that part," he interjected. "I mean, why do you only think? Wouldn't Morgana sort of have to tell you that?" Merlin smiled at the knight's defensiveness.

"I knew Gwen was with child before she did," Merlin explained. "It sort of comes along with living with a physician and being made his de facto apprentice. The signs are there, if you understand what to look for."

"What signs?" Elyan asked. Merlin grinned as he related his observations.

"Morgana hasn't been sick to her stomach, but she's been so hungry and exhausted even though she's been doing less. The other night, she was sleeping so deeply that I checked her pulse. But because Morgana hasn't been feeling sick or craving things like Gwen has been, she's sort of in denial. But she's with child, I'm sure of it."

"Is that why Hunith is looking so pleased lately?" Arthur laughed.

"Yes, I think so," Merlin chuckled.

"So... Papa Merlin," Percival said. Merlin's smile was brilliant; none of them could resist returning it.

"I suppose so. But I've only told you five so that you can help me convince Morgana to stop doing so much," Merlin entreated them.

"No offense Merlin, but I think we'll leave that job to you. We can't just magic away any new ears or tails she gives us," Elyan said as the others nodded their agreement.

"And I don't fancy braying my stories at the tavern again," Gwaine said dryly.

Merlin laughed but sighed resignedly. They were probably right.

After the pot and bowls were cleaned with a murmured spell, Merlin decided to try spelling the perimeter of their campsite with a few protective enchantments. Gwaine followed close behind him, watching curiously as Merlin circled their clearing, incanting as he touched every third tree.

"What are you doing?" Gwaine asked, unable to remain silent any longer. Merlin paused, looking at the genial knight.

"I'm putting up wards."

"Wards? For what?" Gwaine questioned. Merlin explained as he moved on to the next tree.

"Last night, as you pointed out, I couldn't sleep. So I thought a lot about how to make our camp more secure; I constructed some spells to ward off those with ill intent that I could chain together to make a perimeter."

"That sounds. Impressive," Gwaine allowed.

"I got the idea from the druid camps. Many of them place wards around them to discourage visitors."

"Is that why they're so hard to find?"

"Sometimes," Merlin replied, touching the next tree in his line and murmuring, "befégaþ se beÁm. Wilan eotonwearde se hearm."

"Will you add it to the city wall?" Gwaine asked, keeping pace as the warlock circled the whole camp.

"Perhaps. As it is, this spell is really only effective on a small scale. But I think I can adapt the spell and anchor it within a vessel, such that it could protect the entire city," the warlock explained enthusiastically. The enchantment complete, Merlin nodded in satisfaction. "It's done. No one with ill-intent towards Camelot or her people can come within twenty feet of us."

"Really?" Leon asked, impressed.

"Yes. But that doesn't mean that we shouldn't keep watch," Merlin explained after he informed the others of what he'd done.

"How did we ever get by without your magic?" Gwaine asked teasingly.

"You didn't. You just didn't know about it," Merlin said, laughing. The others instantly sobered

"Glad you are on our side, mate," Gwaine said gratefully.

"Aye," Leon agreed.

"Yes, we are all glad for that. Best get some rest, you lot. Merlin, you and I will take the first watch," Arthur ordered, taking a seat at the fireside. Elyan, Percival and Leon nodded and lay down without protest. Gwaine hesitated briefly, then gave Merlin a brotherly punch to the arm.

"Good job, Merlin," he congratulated. Then he lay down as well, shifting to get comfortable in his bedroll.

"For what?" Merlin asked, confused. Gwaine sat up with a gleeful grin.

"You were as thorough as Morgana claimed," he said, fighting the urge to laugh. Merlin sat down beside Arthur on the log, feeling a blush rise in his cheeks. Then Gwaine started to snort as he tried to contain himself. Merlin rolled his eyes and did the only thing he could.

"Swefnu!"

Gwaine abruptly stopped laughing and flopped backwards, a wide grin still plastered across his face like a drunken court jester.

"What did you do to him?" Arthur asked, trying to decide if he should laugh at Gwaine or admonish Merlin.

"Just a sleeping spell," Merlin reassured the king. Arthur raised an eyebrow. Merlin shrugged. "It's a harmless spell; it just induces natural sleep."

"Well then! That is perfect. The look on his face!" Arthur chortled as Merlin smiled and picked up a stick to stir the fire. Arthur composed himself as he watched Merlin wordlessly form horses and dragons in the smoke and sparks that flew up from the crackling flames. Arthur broke the silence after a few minutes.

"He's right, though, Merlin, at least in commending you. You've done admirably these last few months," Arthur said softly, mindful of the now-sleeping men around them.

"Thank you, Arthur," Merlin said genuinely, dropping the stick and dusting off his hands. He was surprised and pleased at the rare praise from the king.

"I didn't think that I'd ever see this side of Morgana again," Arthur continued. "I thought that one day, I'd have to kill her. The woman I had grown up with, whom I had sworn to my father to protect. My own sister. The thought haunted me every day from the time she first took the crown from our father, until that morning the two of you woke up tied together."

Merlin nodded, understanding.

"I've nearly killed her four times, Arthur. Not a day goes by that I think of all that I would have lost if I had succeeded. But I can't dwell on it; as you said, it would haunt me. I have to think of the things I have now. A beautiful and loving wife and a child on the way."

"Could you have ever imagined this possibility?" Arthur murmured after a few minutes of silence.

Merlin laughed humorlessly, shaking his head. "Before all of this happened, I thought I was destined to be alone forever. To live in lonely isolation, beholden to none but my secrets."

"That is no way to live," the king replied, his heart aching at the thought of Merlin resigning himself to perpetual loneliness.

"No it isn't," Merlin agreed. "But now, I have everything I could have ever wanted. More than I ever thought possible. That is what I think about."

"It is rather strange, seeing you so wise all the time, now. I always thought you were primarily a fool and then when panic set in, you were shocked into saying something helpful."

"Thanks, I guess," Merlin said, chuckling at Arthur's awkward compliment.

"How could you stand to play such a fool for so long, Merlin?"

"Some days I wonder if I wasn't a little insane to stay in Camelot," Merlin laughed.

"You were absolutely insane. How many times did you almost get killed, only to escape by the skin of your teeth?"

"Too many times," Merlin laughed.

"Quite right," the king agreed, then they fell into silence. An owl hooting in the distance was followed swiftly by the screech of a rodent.

"We're not the only hunters in these woods," Arthur said, tossing another log onto the fire.

"Too true. You know, I didn't realise you knew how to field dress a kill," Merlin said, eyeing the deer hanging from a branch of a tree out of the reach of scavengers.

"Of course I do, I've been hunting since I was old enough to draw a bow," Arthur said incredulously.

"Then why have I had to do it all these years? You know I hate hunting. For that matter, why don't you drag George out on these excursions, make him do it?"

"George?! Can you imagine him getting a little blood on his hands? Or worse, his clothes?" Arthur asked.

Merlin thought of how fastidious Arthur's new manservant was and then imagined how George would react to gutting and skinning a deer. He bit his lip to keep his laughter from bursting forth and made the mistake of looking at Arthur, who was also struggling to stifle his amusement. Both of them completely lost it, laughing uproariously.

"What's going on?" Leon said groggily, sitting up and taking in Merlin and Arthur, the two of them wiping tears from their eyes and struggling to calm themselves.

"Merlin wanted to know why I don't bring George on hunts with me," Arthur answered. Leon grimaced.

"If you ever do, sire, I shall be glad to do my duty and protect the queen while you're away." Without another word, Leon laid back down and settled back to sleep. Merlin and Arthur laughed into their fists, trying not to wake anyone else. A few minutes later, they grew serious once more.

"Morgana being with child will change our battle strategy for any confrontation with Mordred and Alvarr," Arthur said.

"I know. I think that's why she's fighting what she knows already. She doesn't want to be left out or leave me to face them alone."

"Where are they, Merlin? What are they planning?" Arthur asked, sounding tired.

"I don't know. They must know that they cannot win alone. They have to be trying to gather followers somewhere. It's possible they've gone beyond the borders of the five kingdoms. Distance isn't so great an obstacle to a powerful sorcerer."

"I'm not sure if I should feel heartened that they must go so far to find an ally to fight against us or frightened at what they'll find," Arthur admitted.

"Whichever it may be, we will be ready for them," Merlin promised.


Merlin felt that he had just settled into his bedroll when he was being nudged awake. He blearily opened his eyes and looked around, not able to see much in the dim pre-dawn light.

"What's going on?" he asked, seeing that Percival and Elyan were on watch, and that the latter was shaking him by the shoulder. Leon and Gwaine had relieved Merlin and Arthur from watch last night; Merlin realized that he had slept longer than he'd originally assumed.

"There's someone out in the forest. They hailed the camp, but they're not coming closer," Elyan explained. "We thought that they might have magic, since they are staying well out of the area you said was protected."

Percival had worked quickly to rouse the others as Elyan explained the situation. Merlin stood swiftly, closing his eyes and reaching out with his magic. There were in fact two people waiting just beyond the border of Merlin's protective enchantment. More importantly, they both had magic, one much stronger than the other. Realizing that this was exactly how Mordred and Alvarr would appear, Merlin tensed and reached out mentally.

"Who are you? What business do you have with us?"

Merlin waited a moment, gathering his magic, preparing himself to face an opponent when he heard a response in his head.

"It is I, Alator of the Catha, to bring you news. We sensed your powerful protections and were wary to cross them without knowing their consequences."

"If you wish no harm upon Camelot or her people, then have no fear; it shall not harm you."

"What of your companions? Do they know and understand who you are?" Alator asked, unwilling to reveal his ill-gotten knowledge without Merlin's approval.

"Yes. There are no secrets here."

"You were right; they do have magic. But they're friends," Merlin said as he opened his eyes and caught sight of Alator moving through the trees, a tall warrior-priest following him.

"Who is it? Are they druids?" Arthur asked, coming to stand beside Merlin as the other knights took flanking positions behind and to the side. Alator finally entered the small clearing, eyeing each of them where they stood. Then both Catha priests knelt before Merlin as Alator had when he had pledged his fealty to the warlock.

"I am Alator of the Catha, Arthur Pendragon," he said without standing or raising his head. "We heard tell that magic was welcome in your borders once more, but we did not know if we could hope that the rumor was true."

"It is, indeed. What brings you to us now?"

"I have come bearing a warning for Merlin, who the druids call Emrys, and my people call Myrddin."

Merlin's eyes widened at the addition to his apparently growing collection of names. However, regardless of his position as a figure of prophecy, he was still not used to people bowing to him.

"Alator, please stand," Merlin entreated.

Arthur was amused at the groan that was well-concealed within Merlin's plea, though he doubted this Alator had recognized it for what it was. Alator stood without further requests from Merlin.

"Who are the Catha?" Arthur asked curiously.

"The Catha are high priests of the Old Religion, who live far to the north of Camelot, even beyond Mercia's borders, King Arthur. I and others of my people have been approached recently by two called Mordred and Alvarr. They sought us out, not realizing that my people have sworn their loyalty to Emrys."

"Do you know where they are now?" Merlin asked.

"I do not, though I fear that they have learned of a vicious clan living across the seas to the northeast of our lands, and have sailed abroad in search of them," Alator said grimly.

"What clan is this?" Arthur asked.

"The Norse clan," Alator explained. "They caused some troubles for my people many generations ago."

"Do they have magic?" Merlin asked.

"Some do," Alator confirmed. Merlin nodded, understanding. Before he could pose another question, Merlin was distracted by a sudden breeze. Morgana had just transported into the clearing, in a near hysterical state.

"MERLIN!" Morgana cried, rushing towards him.

"Morgana?!" Merlin asked, turning to his wife in concern. Almost too late, Merlin noticed Alator and his companion tense.

The unknown priest threw his hands forward in alarm and shouted, "Wáce ierlic!"

"NO!" Merlin instinctively threw himself in front of Morgana and flung his arms up, his eyes flashing. A hazy shield sprung into existence, absorbing the stunning spell and flaring brightly. Merlin held the shield, which crackled and hissed with his tension, not wanting to relax until he knew there was no more threat. Morgana stood frozen behind him, still breathing hard from her abrupt transport and rush towards her husband.

"You will not harm her!" Merlin said vehemently.

"Merlin?! Is this not Morgana Pendragon, who sought Gaius for his knowledge of Emrys? Who tried to kill you when last we met?" Alator asked, highly confused.

Arthur and the knights' eyes widened at the Catha priest's words. That was one story that Merlin had yet to share.

"She is indeed, but as you see, Morgana is within my protective circle and she remains unharmed."

Alator and his companion looked to Morgana with questions clearly visible in their expressions.

"I am Morgana Pendragon, as Merlin said, but I was not wholly myself when last we met."

"Explain," Alator demanded, his eyes boring into Morgana's as though he could pull the answer straight from her mind. Merlin wondered if perhaps the Catha priest could do just that.

"A number of years ago, the high priestess Morgause put a powerful enchantment on me that left me bound to her will and desires."

"It was rumored that Morgause died more than a year ago," Alator's companion said, his distrust not fully dispelled.

"Yes," Morgana agreed. "She did die. But the enchantment was anchored to my own magic and emotions, thus it did not fail even after her death. It was driving me mad, but Merlin was able to lift the curse from me some months ago," Morgana replied. Alator nodded thoughtfully.

"I sense your truth, and I can see that you are very different now, Morgana Pendragon," Alator murmured, studying them intently.

"I am myself, once more," Morgana explained.

"You are more than that," Alator said, looking between Merlin and Morgana. "I can sense a binding between you both."

"We are dragonfasted," Morgana confirmed. Alator's brow furrowed and he looked to Merlin for confirmation. The warlock nodded without moving from his protective stance, or lowering his shield. Alator relaxed slightly, as did his companion.

"I see a great many things have changed since last we met. This binding, you called it dragonfasting. What does this entail?" Alator asked curiously.

"I am the last dragonlord. Our dragonfasting, this binding as you call it, is what made it possible for me to break the enchantment. Morgana is now my wife." Merlin answered evenly.

"A dragonlord?!" Alator and his companion took to one knee in respect. At their deference, Merlin finally lowered his arms and released the shield, but remained in front of Morgana.

"Our apologies, please excuse Niall and myself, for we believed Morgana to be your enemy still," Alator said, both he and Niall lowering their heads penitently.

"I understand, please, stand," Merlin entreated the Catha priests for the second time that night.

"Morgana? What are you doing here?" Arthur asked, breaking the sudden silence. "Is Guinevere safe? Is she alright? What of Camelot?"

"She's fine, Arthur, and the city is safe," Morgana reassured her brother. Merlin realized she was shaking against him and turned around to gather his wife's trembling form in his arms.

"What is it?" he asked, realizing that she must have left in a hurry. She was dressed only in her night clothes and dressing gown, her hair loose and wild from her transport spell. She hadn't even grabbed a cloak. Merlin pulled off his own jacket and draped it over her to protect her from the chilled late autumn morning. Before he could pull her closer to warm her with his body heat, she grabbed his arms, pulling back to look into his face.

"I had a dream, Merlin," she whispered, her eyes boring into his, truly frightened.

"What did you remember?" Merlin asked, not understanding what could have unsettled Morgana so thoroughly. He had not seen her in such a state since she had hysterically begged Arthur not to go after the questing beast so many years before.

"No, it wasn't a memory, it was a dream, a vision of the future, it was terrible!" Tears began to gather in Morgana's eyes. "There was a monster, it looked like a dragon, but it was different; it had very small legs. It slithered through the air like a serpent on wings, and it breathed green fire. It was attacking Kilgharrah, and Camelot! Mordred was controlling it! There was fire everywhere!"

Merlin froze, a feeling of dread sinking into his gut. This was the first vision of the future that she'd had since the dragonfasting. Either she had remembered all that she would, or this particular vision was more powerful than Morgana's need to recall the last few years.

"Do you know what sort of beast this is?" Arthur asked Merlin, startling him from his thoughts.

"No, though it could be related to the dragons, like the wyvern," Merlin explained.

"Could you control it, too? Like you said you could with the wyvern?" Gwaine asked hopefully. Everyone looked at Merlin, eyes shining with the same optimism.

"I don't know; I can't know until I face it," Merlin admitted. Arthur's face hardened as he made a decision.

"Pack everything, we've got to get back to Camelot. Perhaps Gaius knows more," Arthur said, stirring the knights into action. Merlin held Morgana tightly to him once more, rubbing her arms to ward off the chill air.

"I believe I know of what she speaks," Alator interjected, freezing everyone where they stood, expectant.

"Tell us," Arthur commanded, eager to protect his kingdom.

"The Norse clan that I spoke of... when I was but a lad, there were some of their number that arrived on our shores in boats, seeking refuge from a terrible plague, one of pure evil. They spoke of a winged serpent that fed on their livestock and burned their crops and homes. About a fortnight after the first boats arrived, another group came to call the refugees home. They said that their sorcerers had defeated the beast and trapped it within a great tree. They called it Niðhöggr. Only dark magic could release the beast; I fear this Mordred has gone to find the tree and release the terror within."

Merlin startled when Morgana suddenly leaned heavily against him and moaned softly.

"Morgana?!" he cried, alarmed, and lowered her to the ground.

"What's wrong?!" Arthur asked, kneeling at Merlin's side as the warlock quickly checked over his wife.

"Merlin?" Morgana said, faintly.

"Have you eaten anything?" Merlin asked her, checking her pulse and taking in her pale face. At her negative response, Merlin turned to the knights. "Get me an apple from my pack and some dried meat as well!" Merlin called and Elyan hurried to do so.

"May I help, Merlin?" Alator asked. Merlin nodded and the high priest came to kneel on Morgana's other side, across from Merlin. Alator held his hand over her head and closed his eyes, moving his hand slowly down the length of her body. Once over her abdomen, Alator froze, and his eyes flew open, looking at Merlin with a reserved smile.

"She is with child!" Alator exclaimed. Merlin grinned.

"I know. She just wouldn't believe me," he laughed.

"What did you say?" Morgana said weakly, looking at Alator in confusion.

"He said you are with child," Merlin said happily. "I to-"

"Don't you dare say, 'I told you so,' Merlin," Morgana growled half-heartedly. Arthur chuckled and moved aside as Elyan brought the food and a water skin as well. Morgana began to eat hungrily, alternating between the apple and the meat. After a long drink of water, her color slowly improved and she sat up, leaning gratefully into Merlin's chest.

"No more transporting for you," Merlin said sternly.

"At least, not before I've eaten," Morgana argued. Merlin narrowed his eyes, but didn't comment. It was likely to be an argument oft-repeated between them.

"Will the ride back to Camelot be too hard on her? Or can you take her back?" Arthur asked Merlin.

"I am right here," Morgana insisted.

"You need to consider your child," Arthur reasoned. "He is my nephew, after all."

"What makes you think she won't be a girl?!"

"With all the itchy fidgetiness and intent to produce dragonlords, I think it's a fair assumption," Arthur argued.

"Are you two done arguing?" Merlin asked, smiling.

"I do not argue, Merlin," Arthur insisted, as Morgana scoffed.

Merlin smiled again and pressed a kiss to the top of Morgana's head.

"I can take her. I'll be right back," Merlin promised, cradling his wife in his arms and intoning his transport spell. In the blink of an eye, they disappeared, barely stirring the air around them. Alator and his companion gasped in shock.

"He is truly Myrddin," Alator whispered.

"Just how many names has Merlin got?" Gwaine asked.

"His is a great destiny," Alator answered. "He will be remembered for all time as the greatest warlock to walk the earth. As you will be remembered as the Once and Future King, he who will build Albion and bring peace to all its peoples. It is my privilege to assist you to defeat this blight that would threaten your noble goal." Alator kneeled to Arthur as he had to Merlin. "My brother and I will return with you to Camelot at your leave."

"I would be honored to have you fight with us, Alator of the Catha," Arthur said, his voice deep and full of authority.

"And I am honored to have your assistance as well," Merlin said, surprising them all, as none of them had heard him return.

"For the love of Albion," Arthur intoned.

Merlin, Alator, Niall and the knights took up Arthur's clarion call.

"For the love of Albion!"


In the full light of morning, Arthur and his men swiftly broke camp in preparation for returning home. As Merlin began to prepare the horses, Alator and Niall bid the king's hunting party safe travels and headed towards Camelot, eager to gain some ground before those on horseback caught up with them. Finally Merlin released the protective enchantment surrounding the camp, walking the perimeter of the small clearing as the others mounted their horses.

Nearly thirty minutes into their journey home, Gwaine began whistling a jaunty tune. Elyan, Leon and Percival groaned as Gwaine began to sing about dragons and the 'love that made dragonlord babes.' Merlin raised his hand over his head and snapped his fingers without looking back. Even Arthur applauded when Gwaine instantly fell silent despite his attempts to do otherwise.

Embarrassing though it was, Gwaine's bawdy song reminded Merlin that he needed to call for Kilgharrah and Aithusa to ensure that the dragons were aware of the most recent developments. As soon as they came across a clearing sufficient enough to accommodate both dragons, Merlin spoke up.

"Arthur, I need for us to stop here for a moment."

"Don't tell me your little bottom is sore already," Arthur teased.

"I won't then. However, that is not why I need to stop."

"What is the matter?" Leon asked as Merlin dismounted and walked to the center of the clearing. Looking to Gwaine, the warlock released the spell that was silencing the knight's voice.

"Gwaine, I hope reality lives up to your expectations."

"What are you on about, Merlin?" Gwaine laughed.

Merlin gave no explanation; instead he threw back his head and roared to the heavens.

"O DRAKON! E MALA SOI FTENGOMETH TESD'HUP ANAKES! Erkheo..."

"What the hell was that?!" Arthur asked, trying to calm his suddenly anxious horse.

"That would be the dragon tongue. I just called Kilgharrah and Aithusa. They should be here in a bit."

"And they come, no questions asked?" Gwaine asked, slightly awestruck.

"Yes. They have no choice but to heed the call of a dragonlord. I suggest we move the horses under the trees a ways. They may spook if they see Kilgharrah and Aithusa."

Everyone quickly moved their horse into the cover of the trees and tied them to a sturdy branch. Within ten minutes, they stood in the clearing, heads turned towards the sky. Merlin was the first to hear the faint sound of wing beats. His exuberant smile was followed soon after by the huge shadows of the dragons circling overhead.

Kilgharrah touched down with a heavy thud; Aithusa's landing was softer, though not by much. Merlin laughed joyously at the sight of her; she had indeed grown a great deal in the four months since he'd seen her last. The little white dragon had been about the size of a horse when she had dragonfasted Merlin and Morgana, but the warlock could now see that Aithusa was now easily two-thirds Kilgharrah's massive size.

"Aithusa!" the warlock shouted, rushing forward to better greet the dragon who had altered his life so much for the better. Aithusa bent her head as Merlin reached her; he reached out a hand to caress her scaly snout and was surprised when Aithusa nuzzled her huge head into his chest. Kilgharrah looked fondly at the pair; the Great Dragon understood that Merlin and Aithusa would always have a special bond. Not only had Merlin called her from her egg, but Aithusa had strengthened their connection when she had performed the dragonfasting.

"As you see, Aithusa is nearly fully grown," Kilgharrah said proudly.

"Yes, she certainly is!" Merlin laughed, rubbing the pearlescent scales on Aithusa's neck.

"What is it you have called us for, young warlock?" Kilgharrah asked, immediately sobering Merlin. Arthur stepped forward.

"We've received some rather troubling news," the king said.

"What news?" Kilgharrah said, looking between Arthur and Merlin expectantly.

"Alator of the Catha came to us this morning. He informed us that Mordred and Alvarr had been in the far north, hoping to enlist the Catha."

"It is troubling that I was unable to see this," Kilgharrah rumbled, perturbed that his second sight was blocked.

"It is. Though Morgana has seen a vision," Merlin said gravely.

"Then the witch's gift is powerful indeed."

"I've told you before, she's not a witch!" Merlin said indignantly.

"Peace young warlock," Kilgharrah soothed. "She is as much a witch as you are a warlock."

"It just sounds so derogatory. I prefer to call her a high priestess."

"Then what has the high priestess seen?" Kilgharrah asked, chuckling at Merlin's irritation.

Merlin narrowed his eyes but continued. "She saw Mordred controlling a beast similar to a dragon. A great winged serpent with small legs that breathed green fire. Alator believed it to be the Niðhöggr."

"Alator is correct," Kilgharrah confirmed. "This is troublesome news indeed, for the Niðhöggr is a fearsome and ruthless magical creature."

"Is it at all related to dragons? Could I possibly have some control over it, as I do Wyvern?" Merlin asked hopefully.

"It is possible, though not likely. The Niðhöggr is more snake-like than we dragons. You do not possess the gift of a serpent-speaker."

"What about Morgana? She has told me that it was quite easy for her to command both the formorroh and the nathair."

"It is possible, though I have reason to believe that you will not want her to engage in such battles," Kilgharrah replied. Merlin smiled at the reminder.

"Yes. I'm sure you are quite happy with that news," Merlin said, grinning hugely.

"So pleased with yourself, young warlock," Kilgharrah chuckled. Arthur, Leon, Percival and Elyan snorted into their fists but Gwaine did not hold back; he guffawed heartily. Merlin, however, surprised them all with his response.

"Yes, yes I am. For the first time in my life, I believe I can be truly happy."

"Indeed, Merlin. But first, you must eliminate the Niðhöggr as well as Mordred and Alvarr."

"We will need your help, old friend," Merlin said, turning serious once more. Aithusa snorted and stamped her front leg.

"Yyyou will nnneed mmy hhhelp, as welllll," Aithusa said, startling them by speaking aloud for the first time.

"Of course, Aithusa," Merlin beamed. "We would be honored to have both of your help."

"Do you know where this Niðhöggr is trapped?" Arthur interjected. "Would it be possible to find the beast before Mordred?"

"I do not," Kilgharrah answered, shaking his great head. "The tree that the Niðhöggr is said to be trapped within is hidden deep in the heart of an ancient forest. We can only hope that it will take Mordred some time yet before he finds it, though I fear that he is too close to it already."

"Then be prepared, Kilgharrah; Aithusa," Merlin looked to each dragon in turn. "Stay close to Camelot. When Mordred and Alvarr attack, we must be ready."

"You need only call and we will be there, tooth, flame and claw," Kilgharrah promised viciously. Both dragons bowed their heads to the dragonlord and took again to the skies without another word.

"Do they always leave so abruptly?" Arthur asked, breaking the silence that had settled around them. Merlin just laughed and went to collect his horse without answering. Gwaine shook his head, watching his friend walk off into the trees as abruptly as Kilgharrah and Aithusa had flown away.

"I think Merlin's spent too much time with the dragons..."

A/N: Reviews are appreciated.