Chapter 7
The hat was ridiculous but it wasn't pointy so there was that. Still, Merlin refused to wear it.
Iseldir came to see Merlin the morning he was to start for home. "Emrys, have you felt the winds of change these last few days? Something feels different, lighter, more in tune with earth's magic. Arthur's acceptance of the ways of the Triple Goddess and the Old Religion is a first step."
Nodding, Merlin said, "The Great Dragon once told me that the future was never clear but of the many paths, not all lead to Arthur's death and Camelot's ruin. I feel as if the darker path is no more. But I don't know if it's the right one or the one Arthur must walk."
"It is his choices and yours that determine it. Do the right thing, follow your heart and his, and I believe it will turn out all right in the end," Iseldir smiled, then waved at Mordred, gesturing him to join him. "Young Mordred is to join me on my journey home. Arthur has agreed that he would be a good choice as Camelot's representative and as a bridge between my people and the court. It will broaden Arthur's horizons, too, and see how the Druids approach all things, especially conflict. His heart is still torn a bit but perhaps, this way lies peace."
Mordred ran over to them, his grin bright in the morning light. "Did you hear? I'm go to with Iseldir and act as a go-between. But I worry that Camelot needs every knight and I know my magic might be of use to Arthur, now that it's allowed."
"Arthur says it's a good idea. Plus, you can tell him of any issues that might arise," Merlin clapped his hand on Mordred's shoulder and gave him a little shake before letting go. "I think your new role will suit you very well. But if it doesn't, we can always use you on the council. It's going to be hard with some of the nobles pushing back on the magic laws and people suspicious of Arthur's intentions." Merlin nodded up toward Arthur's rooms. "Besides, I think I've got the clotpole to bend a little about maybe having a celebration, you know, one honouring the Triple Goddess. One without a tournament and swords flailing about."
Mordred grinned. "I'm sure he'll insist on the swords."
"I'm sure he will," Merlin nodded toward the gateway. "Safe journey to you both."
That night, Merlin had a vision or dream—who can say, but it was not of death and destruction but a peaceful encampment of Druids, Mordred dressed in green, older, surrounded by children and a woman smiling at him.
As Merlin turned to say something in his dream, the tableau changed again. Arthur standing beside him, silver glinting in Arthur's golden hair and a weathered but delighted smile. Behind them rose the towers of Camelot, gleaming in the sunlight.
And Merlin was content.
The end