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Chapter 9

It had been a couple weeks since Arthur and his party had returned from the ruined fortress and once again Arthur found himself in a meeting concerning what they had found both at the fortress and Ealdor.

"We don't know what that woman is planning but we must find Morgana," Uther said as the council continued to argue about different actions they should take. "We-"

Suddenly the door was thrown open and one of the guards rushed in.

"What in the world?" Uther bellowed as he stood. "How dare-"

"Sire there are people in the courtyard who say they have information about the Sorceress Morgause."

The guard's proclamation was met with silence. At the beginning when they had first started looking for Morgause and her captives there had been many who had come with false claims to try and receive rewards for their information. After one too many false leads Uther became cautious about taking in the information but at this point it had been close to a month since they had gotten any information about the woman and nothing at all since Arthur had returned.

"Bring them here immediately."

"Yes, Sire," the guard bowed as he left.

"Father-"

"I know what you are thinking Arthur but we have nothing to lose."

"Except some gold."

"It is a small price if this information turns out to be truthful." The room had been quickly rearranged to suit an audience with the king; in no time at all the guard was escorting two people, both wearing cloaks, through the chamber doors. One of them, a man judging by his broad shoulders, held himself like a swordsman and the sword at his side also spoke to that, however it was his companion who drew the eyes.

The other wore a cloak that covered their entire body and the hood hid their features from prying eyes, but their figure even though hidden by the cloak appeared slight.

"My guard says you have information about the Sorceress Morgause," Uther said as sat straight up.

"Yes, King Uther," The lilting voice said, emanating from the cloaked person.

"Remove your cloaks." Uther demanded. The man did as Uther asked however the slighter of the two did not, earning themselves a glare.

"I'm afraid I cannot abide by your demand your majesty."

"And why not?"

"Information is my trade and as such I must blend into the shadows so one must not know my face. I hope you can understand that." Uther just waved the woman off gesturing for her to continue.

"What information do you have?"

"The Sorceress Morgause has aligned herself with King Cenred of Essetir and they work together to try and bring about the downfall of Camelot."

The woman's words were met with silence just before mayhem released. Many were yelling at the woman, saying her words were lies, others were yelling about gathering an army and marching on Essetir before Cenred could attack, finally Uther had enough.

"Silence," he shouted. "How did you come by your information?"

"As I said before information is my trade. There was suspicious movements going about Essetir and so I looked into it and was appalled by what I found."

"What else do you know?"

"They plan on sacrificing some of the small villages on the border with Camelot to moral the people to want to fight."

"What do you mean by sacrificing?" Arthur asked a sickening feeling settling in the pit of his stomach.

"From what I understand they plan on placing the blame for 'bandit' attacks on their boarder villages on Camelot's shoulders, saying…"

"Saying what?" Uther demanded.

"Please understand sire I am just reiterating what I heard," the woman said quickly before Uther nodded for her to continue. "They are saying that Camelot's king is too focused on killing anything and everything of magic, real or imagined, that he neglects the known dangers of bandits and now that problem is spreading into Essetir's boarders, so to protect themselves they must bring Camelot down."

The silence that met the woman's words was deafening. Many looked to King Uther with trepidation waiting for his anger to implode. They could see the angry flush that was quickly coloring his features but Arthur interceded before everything imploded.

"Father this might explain what happened to Ealdor."

"Ealdor?" the woman asked before she looked to her companion.

"Do you know something about that?" Arthur asked.

"No, Prince Arthur, I just know someone from there."

"Who?"

"I don't see how that's your concern Prince Arthur." Arthur just glared at the hooded woman, annoyed, causing the woman to sigh. "She is my Uncle's wife, they met there over 20 years ago."

"Oh, very well. I hoped they might have known something," Arthur said. I was hoping they might know if Hunith had been in the village or not.

During their exchange Uther's anger continued to boil, finally bubbling over.

"Gather the men," he ordered. "If it's a war Cenred wants it is a war he will get."

"Father," Arthur said. "Don't be hasty."

"Do you doubt her words?" Uther demanded harshly.

"No I don't but Father we must think this through," Arthur then turned back to the pair, "Do you have any more information?"

"I know the driving force behind this is Morgause. The people of Essetir are fearful of Cenred and see him as nothing short of a tyrant however Morgause they see differently. She makes them feel as if she cares about the people and there are rumors going around Essetir that Cenred plans on making her his queen, now whether or not that is true is something even I could not find."

Once again the woman's words set the people into a fervor of whispers. Then people were shouting again throwing out suggestions, accusations, really anything so they could be heard. Amid the chaos Arthur took note of when the woman leaned up and whispered something in her companion's ear, when the man looked at her all she did was shrug her shoulders, in turn the man huffed before shaking his head.

"Might I make a suggestion?" The man asked.

"About?" Arthur questioned.

"How you might deal with the issue at hand."

"Continue."

"Your ward is missing is she not?"

"Yes- wait that sorceress has her! Where is she being kept?"

The man looked back to the woman who took a step forward.

"The information that I have is that someone took the Lady from Morgause."

"What?"

"So Morgana was kidnapped from her kidnapper?"

"Yes Prince Arthur."

"Wonderful," Arthur commented sarcastically before he turned towards the man. "Continue what you were saying."

"Take advantage of her disappearance and ask for 'help' to find her from your allies. It wouldn't necessarily raise suspicions or put Morgause or Cenred on guard."

"We've already asked."

"Then say you've gotten new information and wish to relay it to your allies for their help but at the same time subtilty let your allies know of what is truly going on."

"From what I gathered," the woman said as she stepped forward, "is that they need to boost the support of the people, to do that they need time. I also believe that Morgause is trying to recruit other magic users to her cause, but I also hear she is being rejected by the Druids and has been rejected by them multiple times."

"The Druids rejected her?" Arthur asked confused. "Why?"

"I'd rather not end up on a chopping block for my own opinions especially when I am not a citizen of Camelot, so not to be rude but make your own guesses, Prince Arthur." The way she spoke it was as if she held disdain for how those of Camelot perceived the Druids and maybe even magic users.

"You're positive about the Druids?" Uther asked a dark gleam in his eyes. "That they rejected her?"

"Yes, King Uther," the woman replied tightly. "She hasn't taken their rejections with grace and has sought to destroy those that will not join her."

"That would explain that encampment that I found when I first went to find Morgana," Arthur whispered to his father, who just looked at his son before slightly nodding his head. Uther sat back down and stared down the pair in front of them, when neither one of them squirmed under his glare making him nod once again, satisfied that these people were speaking the truth.

"I will reward you both with 100 gold coins each for your information," Uther declared. The woman looked back at the man and at his nod she turned back around bowing her head slightly.

"I thank you for your generous reward-"

"Then why do I feel you're going to reject it?"

"Not really King Uther, merely there is something else I want."

"Well what is it?" The woman pulled out two pieces of swirling gold holding them out for all to see.

"These were gifts that were given to my grandmother and her two sisters when each wedded. They have all passed now, my grandmother gave me her piece and one of her sisters, who never had any children, also gifted me hers. Her other sister did have a daughter and left her piece to her however she met her end at the hands of bandits. I know for a fact that your knights dealt with this particular group and I was hoping that you might perhaps have the last piece."

"And if I don't have it do you still reject the 100 gold?"

"Yes, Sire. I did not bring you this information for a reward but merely in hopes that lives would be saved."

Uther scrutinized her as he digested her words. They seemed sincere and she had not faltered once with her information and he too had heard word of something going on in Essetir but not the specifics, if even a portion of what this woman said was true she had just done them a great service. And all she wants is a small trinket? Uther scoffed silently. Women, such sentimental beings.

"Very well, Geoffrey," Uther called to his historian and record keeper. The old man came forward. He held out his hand to the woman who placed the gold pieces in his hand. Geoffrey studied them for a second before nodding his head.

"I have seen this piece in the vaults," he said as he handed the pieces back. "I can send one of my apprentices to retrieve it."

"Thank you Lord Geoffrey," the woman said with a slight bow. As Geoffrey called over one of his apprentices the woman turned back towards Uther. "And thank you King Uther for being willing to hear me out."

"Of course," Uther said still studying to woman. "You and your companion shall stay here at the Citadel."

The pair looked to each other before turning back towards Uther.

"We couldn't-"

"I insist," Uther said, his tone brokered no argument so the pair conceded.

"Thank you for your hospitality. But we must leave tomorrow morning." Uther merely nodded and gestured for one of the servants to take the pair to some of the always prepared guest chambers. As the doors closed behind them and the people started to disperse Arthur turned to his father.

"Why did you offer for them to stay here?"

"I don't doubt the woman's words, it coincides with other things I've heard, however that does not mean I am just going to let them leave right away. I want you to observe them, you and a servant you believe can be discreet."

"Of course Father," Arthur said as he bowed quickly leaving the chambers to catch up to the strange pair. Luckily he knew a short cut to where the guest chambers were and caught up with them in no time.

"Pardon me," Arthur said making the pair turn and face him.

"Is there anything we can do for you?" The woman asked.

"I just wanted to ask about a young man that might have been rescued along with Morgana."

"I'm afraid she never spoke of a young man she was holding captive."

"Oh," Arthur said around the lump in his throat.

"Who is this young man if I may ask?"

"My manservant. He was taken along with the Lady and-"

"That's a lot of concern for a servant," the man said snidely. "You don't usually find that in nobility especially royalty."

"He was more than just a servant," Arthur defended.

"I'm sure-" The man was stopped by an elbow to his gut. The man glared at the women, then when the man looked away with an aggravated groan Arthur knew the woman won the silent battle.

"I'm sorry about him," the woman said as the man walked ahead of them.

"He doesn't seem to respect nobility."

"He's had a few bad run-ins with nobility, which has colored his view of them, despite being one himself."

"He's a noble?" Arthur asked incredulously. The woman didn't answer him instead she walked ahead wrapping her arms around one of the man's, offering him comfort. Her actions drew Arthur's eye back to the sword hanging at the man's waist. Now that he took a closer look it was a fine sword, a little worn but a sword that a knight would use.

You can't judge a person by their appearance, Arthur thought to himself.

"Your rooms," the servant said as he bowed. "Your things will be brought up from your horses. Is there anything else I can do for you?" The two shook their heads. "For you Prince Arthur?" Arthur also shook his head. "Well then I will be on my way." And with another bow the servant was gone.

An awkward silence descended. Arthur didn't know how to make his presence here not out of place, but he ended up saved by the cloaked woman.

"Is there anything we can do for you Prince Arthur?"

"Perhaps could you go into more detail about what you know about Lady Morgana's second kidnapping?"

"I can tell you what I can, but I don't know if that will help you."

"Anything helps, shall we?" Arthur directed them to his quarters where George was waiting for him. Arthur sent him for some refreshments as they settled.

"As far as we understand Lady Morgana was taken by people Morgause had made an enemy of-"

"They won't do anything to her?"

"Pardon?"

"They won't hold the fact that Morgana is Morgause's sister against her and try to use her to get back at Morgause."

"You know about their relation? As far as I understood no one here knew they were sisters."

"I heard about it from a reliable source," Arthur said not looking at the woman. "So, answer my question."

"As far as I understand, no they won't." At the woman's words Arthur let out a breath he hadn't known he was holding.

"Did Morgause say anything else about these people?"

"I'm afraid not."

"Well thank for telling me what you know. Are you positive there is nothing else I can do for you?"

"We're sure," the woman said as she stood, but not a second later her footing faltered and even though her face was covered Arthur could see the wince in the way she held her side.

"Are you okay?" Arthur asked.

"It's nothing."

"It doesn't seem like nothing. Our Court Physician is very skilled you should go see him."

"I don't want to bother him with something like this-"

"You've been injured for over a week," the man said. "Please let the physician look at it."

"Fine."

"I'll lead you there, follow me."

The two followed Arthur as he wound his way through the halls before making his way up to the physician's quarters.

"Gaius," Arthur called as he entered. Gwen turned at Arthur's call and took in the two strangers. Then it dawned on her that these must have been the informants. She turned to Gaius and found him staring into space, again. He hadn't been himself ever since Arthur's return, both the prince and maid knew it was because he had lost his entire family. They hadn't noticed how much he had been holding out hope that Merlin was still alive but with the news of Hunith as well it was as if part of his soul left him.

Gwen knew what that was like after she had lost her father, but it was almost a given she would mourn his passing at some point. He was her elder and father, however Gaius not only lost his younger sister but also his surrogate son, in almost one fell swoop.

Gwen approached him, gently laying her hand on his shoulder to gain his attention. He flinched at her touch but turned to her.

"Yes, Gwen?"

"Prince Arthur is here."

"What can I help you with, Prince Arthur?"

"She is injured," Arthur said gesturing to the cloaked woman. "Could you take a look?"

"Of course, come over here child and remove that cloak if you would?"

"I'd rather not remove the cloak if it's all the same." Gaius just looked at the woman with woolen eyes but nodded as he gestured to his bench. The woman sat down then moved the cloak over her shoulder so that Gaius could look at her injury. As she moved the cloak Arthur and Gwen were able to see a dark spot on the woman's tunic. As Gaius started lifting the tunic Arthur quickly turned around.

"How bad is it?" The woman asked.

"Not too bad," Gaius said as he unwound the wrappings, but he stopped when he fully revealed the 'wound'. It wasn't a wound it was a swirling design he had only seen a handful of times. He eyes jerked to her hidden face, when she tilted it just enough for him to see her eyes, he was met with a shade he had only ever seen once in his life. She gave him a small smile before her eyes flittered towards Gwen and Arthur as if silently asking him to get rid of them.

"Gwen?"

"Yes, Gaius?"

"Could you go fetch me some yarrow? I used the last of it."

"Of course, Gaius." Gwen said as grabbed the herb basket and started making her way out.

"I'll go with you Gwen," Arthur said as she passed him, hastily Arthur made his retreat, leaving without prompting. The three in the room waited a bit before speaking.

"Hello Gaius," the woman said as she lowered her tunic. "It's been a long time."

"Princess Runa," Gaius breathed. "How? Why?"

"We received information about certain things and came to investigate."

"What things?"

"Uther hasn't been keeping his end of the deal, so we've come to take one of ours home, where he belongs."

"You can't release Kilgharrah."

"And why not?"

"He would attack-"

"If he has enough sense he won't."

"He's the last of his kind," Gaius tried to appeal to her. "He most likely holds Uther and thus Camelot responsible for it."

"What makes you think Kilgharrah is the last of his kind?"

"But that Dragonlord said…" Runa just shook her head, "but then Kilgharrah isn't the only dragon?"

"No, we've been doing our best to protect them, and Uncle is the only Dragonlord left so there is no one else to say otherwise."

Gaius' face fell when Runa brought up Balinor and her eyes softened but also a mischievous light flash in them.

"Of course, we were beyond relieved when we found Uncle's son." Runa's words made Gaius look to Runa confused. "He's going to need a lot of time to get used to being royalty but since he used to serve someone who he calls the 'Royal Prat' I think he might get the hang of it quicker than if he had never been around a court."

Gaius had stopped breathing, fearful to take her words for what he hoped they were. He didn't want to get his hopes up, but her next words almost stopped his heart.

"Luckily Auntie was retrieved as well. Uncle thought she was being held captive by Uther or one of his all- Gaius!" Gaius had collapsed against his table as choked sobs bubbled up which he tried to smother with his hand as tears streamed down his face.

"They're alive," he sobbed.

"Yes, all three of them."

"Three?" He questioned, confused for a second before- "Lady Morgana!"

"Yes, we found them both in a ruined fortress here in Camelot."

"Prince Arthur must have been just behind you," Gaius said and elaborated when Runa gave him a confused look. "He found that fortress with dead Blood Guards, which I'm guessing was your doing."

"Maybe," she said sheepishly, to which Gaius just raised his brow. Runa made a face at Gaius. "Merlin warned me about the eyebrow, but I thought he was exaggerating."

When she mentioned Merlin, Gaius' face fell a little and he turned fidgety.

"How is Merlin?"

"As well as he could be. He's still healing from Morgause's torture both physically and mentally. He wanted to come, however-"

~flashback~

"I'm going with you," Merlin said after Runa had finished speaking with the Druid elder.

"No, you're not," Runa automatically responded.

"We'll both go with you," Morgana added as she came to stand by Merlin.

"Neither of you are coming."

"But-" they both protested.

"No," Runa said finitely. "Merlin you are not in any shape to go back, the mere mention of it sends you into a panic, which I can see you are trying to push down." Merlin clenched his trembling hands trying to hide it. "And Morgana, you're not much better. I know you both understand Camelot better than I do but I am not about to send you back to a place where you are in danger."

"What about you?" Morgana questioned. "How are you safer than us?"

"Because I am Princess Runa Ambrosius and unless Uther wants to face my father's wrath, he won't do anything to me, and that's only if he figures out who I am. This is an infiltration mission. Can either of you honestly tell me you could go in and out of Camelot without trying to talk to anyone?"

Morgana and Merlin looked at each other with defeat. Runa had a point, neither one of them felt they could just go in to release Kilgharrah.

"I don't plan on staying more than a night at the absolute most," Runa continued after she saw she got through to them. "If we're lucky we'll sneak in during the night, release Kilgharrah and be out, with no one none the wiser."

"Princess Runa," a man called out to the princess.

"Give me a minute," Runa said to the black-haired pair. Merlin and Morgana watched the two talk and took notice of Runa's quickly darkening expression before she dismissed the man. Runa waved Gwaine over as she made her way back to them.

"What was that about?" Gwaine asked when he joined them.

"Things just got more complicated. Morgause is rallying the people of Essetir to insight a war with Camelot."

"What?" Merlin and Morgana exclaimed.

"Luckily she is taking the long route, but I think it's a good idea to use this information to our advantage." Runa continued however neither Morgana nor Merlin heard her.

"We have to warn them," Morgana said drawing Runa's attention to her. "We have to-"

"And we will Morgana," Runa soothed. "But we can't go about this without thinking this through first. I'll speak with Tali and we can go from there."

"Can we come with you?" Merlin asked. "To Lady Tali's chambers," he quickly added when Runa gave him an exacerbated look.

"Of course, and maybe you can fill us in on everything we need to know about the Citadel." Merlin and Morgana looked to each other and smiling turned back towards the other pair.

"Of course!"

~Flashback ends~

Gaius sat back after Runa finished her tale, relief flooding his system. Merlin and Morgana were safe, and Hunith had been reunited with the man she loved. Even if he might never see them again, he could only feel relief and happiness for them.

"I know this is probably out of place, but I was asked to tell you that you are always welcome in Galdra, and if you wish to leave Camelot, we will welcome you with open arms."

"Thank you for the offer but I believe I am more useful here."

"Trying to curtail Uther's more horrendous ideas, I'm sure," Gwaine said with distaste.

"And who are you?"

"This is my fiancé, Sir Gwaine." Gaius looked the young man up and down and questioned how it was that this rouge had won the hand for the princess of such a powerful kingdom.

"Her hand had to have been hard won." Gaius prodded.

"You have no idea," the man sighed in exaggeration, which earned him an eye roll. Gaius could see the ease with which the two interacted with one another. Ah, he thought as he realized how the man might have won the strong headed young woman's hand.

"We better finish this before they come back," Gwaine said stealing a look at the door.

"Finish what?" Gaius asked.

"Merlin wanted me to get the magic book you gave him,"

"It's up in his room under the loose floorboard under his bed." Gwaine nodded as he made his way into Merlin's old room.

"And I wanted to give you this," Runa said as she reached into the small satchel at her waist. It was a bit of a ratty looking container but when Gaius looked closer, he noticed that it was made to look ratty.

"What is this?" he asked.

"Take a look inside and see," Runa said secretively as she handed Gaius before making her way to help Gwaine. Gaius just looked at the box for a second before slowly lifting the lid. Inside was a letter, he pulled it out and unfolded it. He recognized the handwriting, he had to blink away the tears so that he could read.

Gaius,

I bet you were surprised to see this. Well, I found my father and his side of the family, well actually they found me but that's besides the point. My cousin said she would leave this for you, but she left it up to me to explain what this box does. Of course, this was after she explained what it does to me.

This box is a way of communicating from far away. The box has a pair, which I have, that if someone puts something inside of it and closes the lid then it will be sent to the other one, but there are catches, there are always catches. The box that sent it can't send another until the other box has been opened and the thing sent has been removed. It also can't send anything bigger than the box, which is fine. What would I send that was bigger than this box anyway? She also said it works both ways, so we can stay in contact.

Gaius stopped when he noticed the hastily crossed out 'only if you want to' that he saw. Oh, my boy, of course I do, Gaius thought to himself as he continued reading.

Any way I also wanted to let you know that Morgana and I were saved, and that Mother is now at Father's side. Now hurry and write us back, we want to be kept abreast of all the happenings.

With love,

Merlin, Morgana and Hunith

Gaius noticed each distinct signature and once again had to blink away tears, then he noticed the last line.

P.S. I know this is asking a lot, but can you make sure the Prat doesn't get himself killed?

Merlin's last line brought a small smile to his face. He was so lost in thought that he hadn't noticed the Galdraian pair that were now seated at his bench smiling at him fondly.

"Good news I hope?" Runa questioned to bring him out of his thoughts. Gaius just stared at the princess not able to form the correct words to express his gratitude, seeming to understand his unspoken words she just smiled.

"How did you find them exactly?"

"Merlin's outbursts."

"Wait that was Merlin?"

"Yes, from what I was able to gather they were burst of power when the pain of torture became too much to bear."

"By the gods, how did he survive?"

"We have no idea, and neither do our healers. Their best guess is that his magic is the only thing that kept him alive. If he wasn't as strong as he is then I have no doubt that he would have perished at Morgause's hands." Gaius throat tightened at Runa's words.

"There is one thing I need to add Gaius, neither Morgana nor Merlin will be coming back to Camelot anytime soon."

"But-"

"Can you honestly tell me that it would be safe for either one of them to return here?"

"No, I can't but Merlin-"

"Is Emrys? Yes, we know. We also know that Prince Arthur is the Once and Future King, and that Morgana is Leóma Asgre, but that doesn't change the facts."

"What facts?"

"That both Merlin and Morgana need training. Morgana is a highly gifted Seer even more so than her mother, yet she's had no training whatsoever, neither in controlling her Sight but also her magic. She told us about setting her room on fire and about the fact she couldn't sleep without nightmares. That's not okay."

Gaius couldn't argue with the Princess's words.

"I know you did the best you could with what you could but both Morgana and Merlin need to be in a place where their mere existence isn't a death sentence. Where they are free to learn about their powers, learn to harness and control them. They can't do that here without fear."

"I understand but-"

"You're worried about the princess?" Gwaine said causing Gaius to look at the man strangely.

"He means Prince Arthur," Runa said with a roll of her eyes. "Gwaine likes giving people nicknames that for the most part infuriate them. Gwaine, please never call Prince Arthur that in person or goddess forbid in front of Uther. I'd rather not have to break you out of the dungeon if it's all the same to you."

Gaius looked at the young man and could only shake his head at the wide cheeky grin he was giving the young woman. They were an odd couple Gaius thought again.

"As for Prince Arthur's safety," Runa said bring the conversation back to the topic at hand. "I'm planning on resupplying the ancient magic protections that will protect Camelot and placing a protective spell on Prince Arthur himself and his armor and chainmail. Merlin told me where it's stored when he's not using it. I plan on doing this all tonight after we've released Kilgharrah."

"You've thought this through."

"I had to otherwise Merlin and Morgana would have come back here before they were ready purely out of a sense of duty. However, they also have a duty to understand their powers so that they can use them in the most effective way possible."

Gaius merely nodded at the princess's statement, knowing her words to be true. Merlin and Morgana wouldn't be gone forever, and they would come back when they were ready.

"Well, you best be getting on your way and I'll report to the king that I've ordered you to rest so that you can be on your way tomorrow." When Runa and Gwaine gave him a confused look he explained. "This way you won't have to suffer through a dinner with the man who murdered your mother. I assume being in the hall earlier was trying enough?"

Runa gave Gaius a grateful smile as he gave her a way out. As they said their goodbyes Runa gave Gaius a quick kiss on his cheek in thanks and Gwaine gave the man an appreciative nod. After the pair left and Gaius was alone, he immediately started working on his letter to his nephew and sister feeling lighter than he had in years.


Deep in the bowels of the Citadel was an intricate cave system that had been a prison to a powerful magical creature for over 20 years. The golden dragon was laid out waiting for the Warlock to keep his word, but he hadn't felt the young Warlock's power for over a week at this point and part of him feared the worst. He knew what the Warlock's bursts of power truly meant, but in his mind, he felt it was because the boy trusted the Witch. Kilgharrah was pulled out of his musing when he heard shuffling of feet.

He let out a deep rumble warning the trespasser to leave.

"Your growls do not scare me, Kilgharrah," a voice coming from the tunnel said as a gust of wind brought their scents to him, one unfamiliar, the other, oh the other he knew very well.

"Runa," he called as he swooped to the ledge that he had only used to converse with the Warlock. "What are you doing here?"

The golden dragon watched as the young woman, whom he only remembered as a hatchling, stepped out with a man behind her holding a torch aloft.

"I've come for you. It's time we brought you home, Kilgharrah."

Seemingly out of nowhere Kilgharrah let out a stream of fire in their direction only to have Runa deflect it with a shield.

"What is left for me there?" He roared. "I am the last of my kind! Your kind did not stop Uther and his madness. What-"

"Kilgharrah," Runa said softly with authority.

"You are no Dragonlord so you cannot command me!"

"Kilgharrah, have you shut off your bonds to the point that you believe that?"

"I could not take their deaths anymore! Then that man came here and informed me that they were all gone that I was the last. I refuse to feel the severed bonds."

"Kilgharrah-"

"Enough!" he roared again before letting out another stream of fire only to have it deflected again. Gwaine was growing concerned, this was the first time he was really seeing an enraged dragon, but Runa just put out her arm to hold him off.

Runa was just looking at Kilgharrah, seeing the despair that was rolling off of him accompanied with anger. Why did he- Runa's thoughts were cut short when she remembered what her uncle had told her about his battle with the Dragonlord Uther had under his command.

"Kilgharrah, you are not the last."

"What that lost egg? All the Dragonlords are gone-"

"Uncle still lives, and he has a son," Runa interrupted him.

Kilgharrah jerked back and stared at the young woman not believing her words.

"You lie."

"You know I'm not."

"Then he failed us all! My kin are all-"

"Hali lives," Runa interrupted again. "Your mate is alive and misses you. Your sons, Pyrrhus and Anatolius, they live. Chiara, Balendin, Cyanea, Teris, Iola, Smeme, Efimia, Sophos, Zopyros, and so many more, they all live Kilgharrah."

"Bu- How- Why did he?"

"It was war keeping the dragons in Galdra when that man called to them, but Uncle was the stronger of the two, but it was draining him trying to command so many of them at once so that man couldn't call them to their death. So, father and others devised a way to severe that man's connection, if he could no longer call on the dragons, they would be safe. I'm so sorry we didn't know-"

"You speak the truth?" Kilgharrah asked looking at the young woman with almost pleading eyes.

"Yes, Kilgharrah." Her words seemed to make all of Kilgharrah's fight leave his body, leaving him a little wobbly as he clung to the rocks under him. "Though I should add that Hali is a little upset with you right now."

"Why?"

"Because of what you did to Merlin and Morgana, especially about what happened with Morgana."

"So, you have Emrys and the Witch?"

"She's Asgre as you well know."

"She-"

"And if you are going to be that insulting then at least use Leóma Asgre."

"But that-"

"Was the least likely path Merlin and she could have taken? I know, but it is what happened, so you should be expecting a lecture from both Hali and Tali when you get home. Speaking about home how about we take this stupid chain off and you can be on your way."

"How do you plan on getting this off? Dragon fire doesn't work and-" Kilgharrah stopped when Runa held up her battle staff. Kilgharrah could tell it had been bathed in the Dragon's Fire and etched with powerful magic from her father's homeland. "That should do it."

"I'll try not to hurt you but-"

"I don't care just get this wretched thing off."

Runa climbed down before jumping to the ledge where Kilgharrah perched and made her way towards his back leg where she could see the cuff had worn away at his scales, leaving a scar. The sight of the scarring ignited a fury in her that she channeled into her staff as she swung it down with all her might.

A loud clang rang out through the quite cavern that was soon followed by the sound of something heavy tumbling down into the depths. Kilgharrah let out a triumphant roar as Runa made her way back to Gwaine's side.

"Go home Kilgharrah and keep out of sight until you cross our boarder. There's a reason I released you on a moonless night."

Kilgharrah nodded before nuzzling the young woman and taking off.

"Do you think he will-"

"Unlikely," Runa said as she turned and started making her way back to the Citadel. "His need to be with Hali will out-weigh his desire for revenge and I'm willing to bet he reopened his bonds and will be so flooded with the sensations that he won't want to waste even one second longer in this place."

They continued in silence for a bit as they made their way back into the heart of the Citadel.

"Are you going to resupply the old protections?"

"Yes, and add the enchantments for Prince Arthur's safety. Stop making that face," Runa chided when Gwaine's face twisted into a put-out expression.

"I still don't understand why you're doing this in the first place. I think I understand somewhat about the 'Once and Future King' thing but why everything else?"

"The people shouldn't have to suffer because of Uther, not to mention Merlin and Morgana needed to be assured of the safety of Camelot and its people otherwise they'll push themselves to come back before they're ready, which could be far more detrimental to their progress. You know how much of a battle it was to get those two to stay in Galdra, knowing we were coming to Camelot."

"Yeah, both of them are as stubborn as you. Are all magic users as stubborn or-" Gwaine said cheekily but broke off laughing when Runa slapped at his shoulder. "But why does the princess need so many different enchantments?"

"Because apparently, he's prone to getting into trouble, usually magical trouble and with Merlin and Morgana no longer here it will solely fall on Gaius to try and circumvent the problems. These enchantments will help him."

For the next couple of hours Gwaine and Runa moved silently throughout the Citadel and Lower town, quickly applying the enchantments before anyone else could notice. As they were making their way back into the Citadel Runa stopped abruptly.

"Love?" Gwaine asked.

"It's nothing, why don't you go on ahead, I'll be but a moment," Runa said as she moved down a different hall, Gwaine just raised his eyebrow before he shrugged and did as she asked.

Runa wound her way towards the feeling of confusion infused with despair that quickly turned to anger and then swirled back again. Then finally she found the source, it was the young Once and Future King.

"So, is this a late night or early morning?"

Arthur jumped when the voiced sounded from behind him. It took a second to place the voice but when he did, he relaxed his stance a bit as he turned around to face her. She was shrouded in shadows, but he was able to tell that she wasn't wearing her cloak. As she moved closer, he noticed how the firelight from the torches flickered off her dark hair and light eyes, however it was too dark to tell anything else about the woman, which infuriated him a bit.

"I'm surprised that you are out here without your cloak. I thought you didn't want anyone to see your face."

"Well, can you see it?"

"No," he answered a little perturbed that turned into a pout when she laughed. She made her way to his side to look out over the town.

"What brought you out here?" Arthur asked not able to stand the silence.

"I couldn't sleep," she said off handedly. "What about you Prince Arthur?"

"More like I couldn't go back to sleep."

"If it's not too rude, may I ask why?"

"A lot of reasons," he said on a sigh, he didn't understand why being around this woman made him feel so at ease. "My missing manservant and Lady Morgana, this impending battle, amongst other concerns."

"I can understand about the battle and the two missing people but what other concerns do you have, besides what is normal for a crown prince?"

Arthur just stood there for a moment debating whether or not to tell this woman, but it was eating him up inside and his normal venting partners weren't here anymore.

"I'm having doubts about some beliefs that I've always had."

"Ah, the shaking of faith in one's belief, that is something that would make even the most self-assured person restless. If you don't mind my asking but what belief is that?"

"Magic."

"Ah, that would do it." Runa was doing her best to keep her voice neutral. She knew from what Merlin had told her before that Arthur had wavered on this belief in the past. Maybe I can give a little push, she thought. "But what about your belief has been shaken?"

"That it is the evil that my father claims it to be. But I have to be wrong, right? I mean look at what Morgause is doing, what so many others have done. But-"

"There are very few things in this world that are completely evil, Prince Arthur, and magic is no exception," Runa interrupted him. "Magic for the most part is something, that unless used in specific ways merely exists. Is magic powerful? Yes, without a doubt but usually, what magic can do solely rests on the person who uses it."

"What do you mean?"

"Here's a question I have for you, do all those who have power, in whatever form it takes, use it correctly?"

Immediately Arthur opened his mouth to answer but then stopped and really thought about her question.

"No, no they don't."

"Prince Arthur what I'm about to say may shock you but magic users are only human. They have desires just like non-magic users and are just as capable as any other human is to do either good or evil. However, this is all contingent upon the person. If a person wants to learn the sword to protect his family, his home, how is he any different from those that learn magic to do the same thing?"

"There is no difference?"

"Correct, the only difference, at least here, is the way magic and its users are viewed, and mind you Prince Arthur there are many in this land that don't agree with your father's decrees, knowing them to be false."

"But I've looked through the documents from that time and the chaos that magic users caused."

"Yes, but a lot of that was due in part to the pervious king who used magic users as nothing more than rabid dogs he unleased on his people. Now, who does that sound like?"

"King Cenred?"

"Correct again. Both King Cenred and former King Ubel treat magic users as things, not people, and as I said magic users are only human, and there is only so much a person can take until they break."

Arthur was digesting her words as she continued explaining things in a way no one else never had, with no censure.

"Now after your father became king those that Ubel had imprisoned or enslaved were set free."

"They had no understanding of what was right or wrong anymore, did they?"

"You catch on quick Prince Arthur, you're right, they didn't know the boundaries that was common knowledge to most people. Unfortunately, King Uther left that all to the High Priestesses and High Priests of the Isle of the Blessed."

"Why was that a bad thing?"

"Not all magic users followed the Old Religion and so didn't fall under the purview of the High Priests and Priestesses, or so they would argue. The Druid's tried to help but…"

"I think my father had a Court Sorceress at one point, right?"

"Yes, he did but you need a lot more than one person to try and control the chaos, and while yes he released a lot of the sorcerers many of them didn't want to end up under another king who might abuse them again. There were some who were by his side, but the numbers and powers didn't equal, and so chaos reigned. I do have to say that your father was starting to go down a path that would lead to balance but then your mother died, and everything went to hell, and no one knows why."

Arthur flinched because he had an inkling as to why his father had changed, but Morgause had lied, hadn't she, he thought. Runa noticed the flinch yet didn't comment on it, but she decided it was time to leave the prince to his thoughts. She stretched her arms over her head drawing Arthur's attention.

"I'm sure you didn't come out to listen to me babble on. I hope you can get some rest," with her last piece said she made her way back into the Citadel, leaving Arthur with his thoughts.


They were gone at first light as they had said they would. Arthur watched from the ramparts as they made their way into the forest still lost in thought about what the woman had said. She had been very forth coming with answers, answers to questions he'd had for a long time, that no one would ever answer for him. However now he had new questions and he knew that the people around him would be as forthcoming with the answers he sought as they had been before.

He was pulled from his thoughts when his manservant George said that his father was calling for him for a planning meeting for the coming battles. Quickly Arthur pushed those questions and thoughts to the back of his mind, he had more immediate concerns that needed all of his attention.


Runa and Gwaine had been gone for almost two weeks and Merlin and Morgana were getting restless, concerned, however, at the same time they had never been happier. For both of them it was finally being accepted for who they were, magic and all. In addition, for Merlin he finally had his whole family together and was getting to know his father, a man his mother had rarely spoken about, and for Morgana, she was finally starting to learn to control her Sight, something she had wanted for a long time. She was also learning more about her parents from people other than Uther, people that seemed to know more about the true them than what was ever known in Camelot.

Balinor had notified them when Kilgharrah had returned but neither really wanted to talk to the meddling old dragon and another part of them wanted him to spend time with his kind without interruption until Runa and Gwaine were back.

Gaius had responded to Merlin's letter almost immediately after Runa and Gwaine had left his chambers and they had been corresponding ever since. Through him they had learned of the fate of Ealdor and all they could do was mourn for the lives lost to Cenred and Morgause's madness.

One day when Merlin and Morgana were walking in the garden, Morgana regaling Merlin with her tales of lessons with Seer Tali, they heard the gong of a bell. It was something they had never heard before, but it seemed similar to the warning bells that Camelot had but instead of fearful people rushing around they heard the sound of cheers. They looked to each other confused then started making their way back into the castle in search of Nell or Kayne, everyone else save Hunith were in a meeting.

"My lord," the call pulled the two to a stop then turned to the young man who was coming up to them.

"What's with all the bells?" Merlin asked once Kayne soon followed by Nell came to a stop.

"It means the last of the boats have returned for the season." When Merlin and Morgana gave Kayne a confused look Nell elaborated.

"We try to not send out merchant vessels during the stormy months, that's how we usually lose them, their crew and the goods. So, we send them out in batches, and this is the last ship that hadn't returned. After it's unloaded, we start getting ready for the harvest and winter including the celebrations and feasts that accompany the seasons. And it also lets us know that they are back safe and sound. Do you want to go down?"

"Are we allowed?" Morgana asked. They hadn't really gone into town since Runa and Gwaine left, but then again, they hadn't really felt inclined to.

"Of course, you are," Kayne said. "King Brynjarr and several others will be down there. It's tradition that everyone helps unload the last boat either by brawn or by magic."

Morgana and Merlin looked to each other and smiled then turned back to the younger pair and nodded their heads. In no time they had made their way down to the port where there were already a lot of people who were bustling around with heavy crates or sacks. As they broke through the throng of people, they were shocked to see crates and sacks floating from the ship.

Merlin and Morgana stared, amazed at the show of magic. Once they shook themselves out of their stupor, they looked to each other again, their smiling faces mirroring each other. They were smiles of relief coupled with awe that they were in a place that they could be themselves and embrace their gifts.

"Merlin! Morgana!" They turned at the call to see Runa and Gwaine weaving their way through the crowds.

"Runa!" Morgana cried.

"Gwaine!" Merlin exclaimed.

Quickly Runa had Morgana in a comforting hug while Gwaine gave the same the Merlin.

"We thought you would've returned via the transportation circle," Morgana questioned as she pulled back.

"Distance is the biggest factor when it come to the amount of magic it takes to use that spell. It would have taken us about the same amount of time if we had gotten close enough for it to not be a huge drain. Not to mention, Uther sent one of his knights to tail us. We were able to lose him, but we didn't want to take any chances and I knew one of our boats would be in Tintagel soon. I'm glad it was the Eidunn."

"Why?" Merlin asked.

"Knox's sister is the captain-"

"A female captain?" Morgana interrupted.

"Unusually, huh? Yes, Elaine took over as captain after her father stepped down. She's also a shadow member of the Queen's guard."

"Shadow member?" Merlin asked confused by the term.

"In simple terms," Gwaine started. "It means she's part of the Guard but just not always here." Morgana and Merlin nodded at his explanation. They turned and continued to watch the people getting off and that's when Morgana noticed something a little off.

"Why are there so many people getting off? Surely, they aren't all crew members."

"No, the majority of them are refugees from Camelot and the like that we smuggle out of different ports but mostly out of Tintagel," Runa supplied.

"Oh," Morgana said as she continued to watch the people disembark. Most of them she identified as Druids but there were some that weren't. However all of them looked haggard, but she could also see looks of relief and wonder as they stepped foot on Galdraian soil. She knew the feeling and she still wondered at times if this was just a cruel dream.

As Morgana was lost in her thoughts so too was Merlin. His thoughts followed the same path as Morgana's, but he also felt guilt. Guilt that he in some way failed all these people.

Runa could feel the guilt that was rolling out of Merlin in waves and knew she needed to squash whatever thoughts prompted those feelings. In a silent gesture to Gwaine, who nodded his head in acknowledgement, to distract Morgana.

"Lady Morgana do you want to come with me to see some of the wares as they're unveiled?" Gwaine asked as he held out his arm to her.

"I'd love to," Morgana said as she took his arm, as she chanced a glance at Runa, not wanting to upset the woman but all she received in return was a kind smile making her relax as Gwaine started prattling in her ear, Nell following behind them. When Merlin went to follow as well, Runa stopped him.

"Merlin," she called. "Would you come with me?"

"Sure." He turned on his heel and made his way to his cousin's side. When Kayne went to follow Runa gave a subtle shake of her head then indicated that she wanted him to go with Gwaine and Morgana. The young man understood and gave a slight bow before disappearing into the throng of people.

They walked in silence as the buzz of activity continued around them. After a while and once Merlin finally noticed they had left behind the bustling port and were making their way around the harbor, did Merlin speak.

"Where are we going?" he asked.

"A place I go sometimes," she answered cryptically.

"Oookay," Merlin said as he continued to follow her. They walked for little while longer as they wound their way towards their destination. When they entered the mouth of a cave, almost on the other side of the harbor, did Merlin's curiosity grow until…

"I hope you aren't sacred of heights."

What is she talking about- Merlin's thoughts were cut short when they came to a large opening that lead to a cliff that overlooked the harbor and had a wonderful view of the town. It was breathtaking.

"I see why you come here."

"One of the many reasons but I didn't just bring you here for the view. What's going on Merlin? Why do you feel such guilt when you look at those people?"

Merlin was taken aback by her question.

"How?"

"It's an ability I inherited from my father, to be able to feel emotions of others. I can gain a little bit of power from it but nothing like my father."

"The king can do that?"

"Yes, he can. It's kind of the perfect magic for a leader and king, wouldn't you agree?" Merlin couldn't find the right words, so he just nodded. "But that is beside the point, Merlin."

"You do that almost as well as Gaius does," he groused at her raised brow.

"Well seeing it in person helps," she chuckled, drawing one out of him. "Merlin, I'm only asking because I care."

"I know but… I… urgh!" He scrubbed his hands over his face unable to find the words. "I just… I feel like I've failed them…Them and Arthur by hiding here. That they're having to leave their homes because I can't… and I'm-"

"How long have you been feeling like this?" Merlin thought about her question before he answered.

"Since you and Gwaine left? You were right that I'm not ready to return to Camelot, but I feel like such a failure and… and a coward because of it."

"Listen to what I am about to say," she paused making sure that Merlin looked her in the eye. "You have failed no one. You are not a coward. Merlin, as powerful as you are, you're still young and you've never had formal training, but you've accomplished so much and done things people twice your age spend a lifetime trying to do. On top of all of this, you are more than your destiny, just like Morgana is. Just like Arthur is. This destiny is just a small part of who you are. Everyone has a destiny, there is a reason why people aren't usually told their destiny, and it's because it becomes all encompassing. People usually equate themselves to how far they've gotten to achieving their destiny, and that's wrong."

"Then why did the Druid elders and Seer Tali-"

"Because you already knew a little, but do you remember what they said after that and what I've told you?"

"They said a lot."

"Well then I'll say it again, you were chosen for this destiny, so you don't need to liveup to it. You just need to follow what your heart tells you is right, because despite what power you have your heart is who you truly are." Her words sounded familiar, but he couldn't quite place where he had heard something similar, so he shook it off.

"I still feel like such a failure. I-"

"Merlin, you're no failure. Think of it this way, if we hadn't found you and Morgana, we still wouldn't know what is going on in Camelot. The countermeasures I've put in place should protect them. Also, we can work even harder on getting those of magic out of Camelot and her allies now that we know Uther isn't keeping his word. In addition, Kilgharrah is back with his kin and your parents have reunited. There are many things that can be attributed to you."

"But I still… This only happened because of what Morgause did and the fact that I-" he stopped himself and turned away from her. Runa sighed knowing she was getting nowhere with him and that her words were not sinking in like she had hoped they would.

"Okay then, think about this. What do you think would have happened had you listened to Kilgharrah when he told you that you needed to kill Morgana because she was the cause of the sleeping sickness?"

"I-I don't-"

"What was your plan?"

"Poison but I couldn't- I couldn't do that to Morgana."

"Then let's talk this out theoretically. Let's say you did poison her, maybe you could have tried to leverage her life with Morgause to end the spells. Let's say she agreed because Morgana was more useful to her alive, and she took her. What do you think could have happened if Morgana had been left alone with Morgause?"

"She would have corrupted her; she would have taken everything about Morgana and twisted it."

"Most likely- yes, she would have. Even if Morgana had tried to resist her…" Runa didn't have to elaborate more, Merlin acutely knew what Morgause was capable of when she was determined to get her way. "That would have led her down that dark path Kilgharrah warned about but as you know that is no longer the case. Now here's another question I have for you. Why didn't you?"

"Why didn't I what?"

"Follow Kilgharrah's advice."

"Like I said I couldn't-"

"But you had before, when you didn't tell Morgana about your magic. When-"

"I couldn't take it anymore!" he exclaimed as he started pacing. "I couldn't take the idea that there was only one way anymore. That the kind Lady that I knew, would turn against us. The Lady that I knew in my heart wouldn't do what Kilgharrah was saying she would. That a child we saved would in turn kill Arthur. I- He told me all of this and it was so heavy on my heart and I couldn't take it anymore. So, I did what I thought was right. I-"

"Followed your heart?"

"I guess but-"

"Merlin, like we've said before there are reasons that people aren't told their destinies or the destinies of others. They try to change who they are to either fit the narrative or in the opposite direction trying to make sure it doesn't happen. Destinies are controlled by the person, not the other way around, I want you to understand that."

"But- I- I still should have done more, and isn't Arthur supposed to unite all of Albion and return magic to it?"

"And he will, in time," Runa soothed. They were silent for a bit before Runa spoke again. "You know I spoke to Arthur."

"What? Why?"

"It was after we freed Kilgharrah and replenished the old protections I felt a mass of emotions and followed it to Arthur. I think you've done far more than you think."

"Like what?"

"He was questioning his beliefs on magic."

"What?" Merlin exclaimed looking at her with wide eyes. "Really? I'm surprised. I thought after what Morgause did it would have strengthened his belief."

"I did as well, but she's also attacked the Druids because they won't follow her, and he's learned enough about tyrants to see her actions for what they are."

"If he knows so much about tyrants why can't he see that in his father?"

"He probably does but unfortunately as humans we often look past those flaws in those we love and respect or try and justify what they've done. It would take a lot for Arthur's belief in his father to change so that he can see the truth."

Merlin nodded his head thinking back to months pervious when one such situation happened. Maybe if I hadn't- Merlin shook those thoughts from his head, knowing in his heart he had done the right thing.

"I don't fully know his reasons for his doubts but the fact he has them is a start and maybe it will open his mind to the possibility that Uther isn't infallible," Runa said.

"Hopefully, but I still-"

"Merlin," Runa cut him off before he continued to self-deprecate himself. "Can you honestly say that you would reach your full potential while you were in Camelot before it was too late?"

Merlin's scattered thoughts stopped at Runa's question. Would I have? Merlin thought to himself and after a bit of thought he concluded, no, I wouldn't have because my fear would have kept me from going deeper into my magic. However, Merlin couldn't speak the words so just shook his head, earning himself a small kind smile from Runa.

"See, you haven't failed, and you have more than enough time to help Arthur with Albion and in addition to that you have gained one of the strongest allies from the prophecies."

Merlin just looked to her a little confused.

"I mean Morgana. Asgre's path, whether Leóma's or Hoðma's, was a critical part of the prophecies either as an ally or an enemy. Her paths were the largest obstacles in how Albion came about.

"What about K… Ka… no its Ke…"

"Keres?" Runa supplied.

"Yes, that one."

"Well from what was gathered from the prophecies Keres is someone affected by Asgre's path, so many believe that Keres could be any number of people but without Asgre Keres lost its most powerful ally. In my opinion with the way things have progressed Keres is most likely Morgause."

"It's not Mordred?"

"Who's Mordred?"

"A young Druid boy that Arthur, Gwen, Morgana and I rescued from Camelot before Uther could execute him."

"What?" Runa exclaimed making Merlin turn to look at her. He saw righteous fury in her eyes that scared him a little bit but after she took a deep breath that raging flame reduced to a smolder. "Why was Uther going to execute him? What did he do?"

"Besides be a Druid? Nothing."

Merlin watched as her fury rose again and it seemed this time she had a much harder time cooling her anger. Finally, she closed her eye and pinched the bridge of her nose between her thumb and forefinger as she took many deep breaths. When she opened her eyes again the fire had changed from a blaze to a slow burn.

"Well hopefully with everything we've done and the people we are sending out we can get the Druids out of Camelot a quickly as possible and anyone else we can find."


Sorry for the long wait! This one is over 11,000 words. I hope you leave a review they really help keep me going!