Merlin Season 6
Episode 7: Out of Darkness
Gaius huddled quietly, along with a cluster of people, near a supernatural fire that continued to burn without wood, straw, or oil. A five-year-old girl had started the fire, using magic, which sat directly on the dirt. The girl sat across from him with an eerie demeanor about her. Gaius remembered, when they first were taken, this young girl, with tangled, brown hair, was clinging to her mother's skirt. Now, Gaius had no idea where her mother was, and he doubted the girl cared. Actually, that was not true. If the girl still existed inside her body, she was probably scared and wanted her mother.
Risking another glance at her, Gaius saw the same empty look, with dilated pupils and glassy eyes, that everyone in the camp wore. All around him, men, women, and children of every age and size were gathered in clusters around fires. And all of them stared into the fire with wide, dead eyes, that barely blinked. He shivered at his company. They were all possessed by vengeful spirits of sorcerers. Even he had almost been taken over, but just as the spirit was about to take control of his body, he had a brilliant idea to utter a purification spell, which in the days when he still practiced magic he used to purify water for cleaning wounds, and it worked. The spirit was immediately expelled from his body and had yet to return. So here he sat, doing his best to blend in.
The roar of the white dragon erupted through the silence of the dark night, shaking the leaves of the trees. Gaius was the only one to jump, which he quickly tried to cover up by making his startled response look like he was adjusting his position into something more comfortable. No one else spoke, no one else even budged. All the people that were possessed seemed to be constantly absorbed in their own thoughts. Gaius wondered if it was because the vengeful spirits had to continually maintain control. He hoped that was the case, because if it was, that meant that the people's souls still fought with in them. He needed to get back to Camelot, to his books if he was going to find a way to help these people.
The next few days, Gaius, with his aching back and creaking knees, marched south toward Camelot along with the small, pitiful looking army, that could be mistaken for harmless travelers. But with every village they passed through, the tale of their infamous, powerful army grew. For they left village after village burned to the bone or swallowed up in the earth forcing the village occupants to scattered and spread terror through the land. The white dragon would streak through the sky with blinding speed and emit an ear-splitting roar that caused the ground to quake. All that the white dragon did was under the control of Mordred.
In a few days, they would reach Camelot and Gaius was powerless to stop them.
Arthur slowed his pace until he came to a stop. He turned back to where he had left all his men who were waiting for his return to camp.
Merlin stopped too and asked, "What is it?"
"I don't know if we should be going to meet these druids alone," he confessed. "After what my father did and meeting those two siblings who almost strangled me with their weeds. I'm not sure things wouldn't get violent when they see me."
"If you want to gain their trust," Merlin said like he had said many times before, "you must do it alone. You can not appear threatening. You must be willing to be at their mercy."
Arthur nodded, "Yes, yes. That all makes sense, but doesn't it seem a bit questionable to meet them out here, alone, at night, in the woods? Why not under the bright afternoon sun, in an open meadow?"
"The great King Arthur, afraid?" Merlin quirked a brow.
Arthur scowled defensively, "I am not afraid for myself. I only fear for what will happen to my people if this negotiation doesn't go as planned."
With a reassuring grin, Merlin said, "I trust them. They are a peaceful people."
"Have you heard about Mordred?" Arthur asked full of sarcastic curiosity. "The man that now leads an army to destroy Camelot? He was a druid."
"True," Merlin agreed. "Not all druids uphold their core beliefs, but you're forgetting something."
Arthur frowned.
"You are not going alone. I am with you. To the druids, I am Emrys, the most powerful sorcerer to ever live. They will listen to me."
"Hmm," Arthur scoffed. "You are getting a rather big head."
"Yes," Merlin smiled, "And perhaps someday, if I am ever so blessed, it will be as big as yours."
In one quick motion, Arthur slugged Merlin in the arm before continuing on. Merlin rubbed at the spot, his eyes glowed as he was tempted to drop a branch on Arthur's head, but then he felt the pulsing of the Drop of Decay behind his eyes and he quickly breathed in cold air to clear his head. He knew that he could not lose himself to insanity, or Camelot would be doomed.
The warm glow of orange light up ahead told them they were going in the right direction, and that they were close. As they drew nearer to the light, men in long, mauve colored robes stepped out from behind trees. All their faces were hidden under hoods that hung to their noses. They surrounded Merlin and Arthur at every turn. Merlin noticed how Arthur's hand moved toward where Excalibur would have been if Merlin had not convinced him to leave the sword behind.
The circle of druids did not speak. Merlin stepped forward, "I am Emrys, and this is King Arthur. We come unarmed, alone, and in peace."
The druid Merlin spoke to pulled back his hood. He was a harsh looking man with scraggly, black hair that hung to his shoulders, a full black beard with strands of gray mixed in, and pointed cheek bones. But he had kind, soft, brown eyes. "Emrys," he said almost reverently. "Come." And then he turned toward the orange lights off in the distance and led them the rest of the way.
Arthur turned to Merlin looking impressed. "I guess you were not boasting about how the druids revere you," he whispered as they followed the escorts of druids.
The druids led them to a small clearing of trees with a circle of torches at the edge of the trees. In the circle there were five large boulders that were spaced out making the five points of a star. The druids behind Merlin and Arthur left them and gathered in one body at the other end of the clearing.
"I am Breton," the druid who had first spoken in the woods, said. "A high priest among the druids, and may I add, one of the very few that our left." He his eyes rested on Arthur with such severity that Arthur squirmed a bit, but just a bit. "We welcome you, Myrddin Emrys."
In one simultaneous motion, all the druids pulled back their hoods and lowered their heads in Merlin's direction.
Merlin awkwardly inclined his head back, he had never gotten used to the way some devout druids treated him.
Arthur silently mouthed, "Myrddin," to himself.
Breton turned to him, "and you, Arthur Pendragon. We have waited for you both to come to us for a long time."
"Where are we?" Arthur asked, looking around at the boulders.
"In a very sacred place called the Ring of Thesuhl. It is a burial ground for some of our distinguished ancestors. We few are honored to be standing on this hallowed ground, since no druid has been able to set foot here after King Uther drove us from the land."
Arthur nodded, appearing a bit abashed.
"You know why we have come," Merlin stated, changing the subject.
"Yes," Breton said. "Mordred has created a powerful army of sorcerers who now threaten all of Albion."
"Do you know how he has been able to create this army so quickly?"
A hand peeked out of Breton's long sleeve and pointed at Arthur. "Because of him," and then he looked at Merlin, "and because of you."
Arthur and Merlin both frowned at the same time.
"When you brought Arthur back from the dead, a Pendragon, the son of the man who unjustly sent many of the Children of the Old Religion to their death. These restless souls heard your call and awoke from their slumber, crying out for justice. With power only known in the other world, they rose Mordred from his grave and he has been their instrument for retribution. The army that now marches toward Camelot is made up of those restless souls, who know nothing of their former selves but only vengeance."
"What do you mean that they know nothing of their former selves?" Arthur asked.
"Souls who return to this world seeking vengeance, only know vengeance. Who ever they once were, whether it be good or evil, is swallowed up by the vengeance that they seek. They now possess the bodies of those Mordred has stolen from you."
"How do you know this?"
"Because Mordred has already sought us out, wanting the druids to join his cause. We have witnessed for ourselves the power and knowledge these vengeful spirits have given him. When we refused the spirits tried to possess us, but those who know of magic are not as easily possessed. That is why he needed those with the potential for magic but without the knowledge."
"And what of the dragon that is said he controls?" Arthur asked.
Merlin gazed at Arthur's intense expression. He knew of Arthur's extreme prejudice for the enormous, flying serpents.
"Mordred has learned to speak the language of the dragon," Breton answered. "Dragons must obey all commands they hear in that language. Only a true dragonlord would be able to take that control away."
When Arthur turned to him looking discouraged at this new bit of knowledge, Merlin scratched at a sudden itch in the back of his neck. He guessed at Arthur's thoughts. They had both witnesses the death of Balinor, and Arthur believed him to be the last of the Dragonlords.
"We have a risked our lives coming this far to meet with you," Breton said. "So we now ask, what future can we of the Old Religion expect from King Arthur Pendragon's reign?"
All the druid's eyes were on Arthur, even Merlin watched him waiting for him to answer. Arthur cleared his throat, "Help me save my kingdom from Mordred and I will abolish the law that forbids magic. Every druid will receive a royal pardon and be allowed to freely enter the land of Camelot again."
An incredulous smile crept at the corners of Breton's mouth, "You want us to help you win a war against our own kind, and then you will give us our freedom your father unjustly took? This is what King Arthur Pendragon believes to be fair and just?"
Arthur pulled back, surprised by Breton's curt accusation. He glanced sideways at Merlin and then down at his feet. His brow knitted in deep concentration, and then he looked Breton straight in the eyes. "You are right, this is not your war. It is the consequence brought on by my father's actions and my own, for not having corrected the injustice sooner."
Merlin gazed at Arthur with a faint but proud smile on his face. The humility in Arthur's voice was clear for all of druids to hear.
"I will do what I can to bring justice to you and your kin," Arthur continued. "And perhaps one day, you will understand how truly sorry I am for all your kind have had to suffer on mine and my father's account."
The druids looked to one another, stilled by Arthur's words. Arthur turned to Merlin and said, "Let's go, there is much to be done."
Arthur started to leave, with Merlin at his heels, when Breton spoke.
"King Arthur," he called out, making Arthur turn back toward him. "If we are to be made free citizens of the kingdom again, then we do not wish it to be destroyed. We will go with you, and help you defeat Mordred. For just as you took responsibility for your father's actions, we will take responsibility for Mordred's crimes."
Both Merlin and Arthur smiled, but Arthur quickly suppressed his.
"We shall gather all those willing to stand against Mordred and then come to Camelot as swift as possible."
Arthur nodded, "We will do what we can on our end until then."
The druids simultaneously bowed their heads to Arthur and then to Merlin. They pulled up their hoods and began to disappear into the forest one by one. Before Breton followed he said to Merlin, "You have chosen wisely where to place your loyalty, Emrys."
Once they were gone, Arthur playfully slugged Merlin in the arm. "Not bad, huh?"
"Your humility is short-lived."
"I meant what I said," Arthur frowned. "I am not arrogant enough to believe that I am the reason they have decided to join me. It is their high regard for you that has earned me their trust tonight. And I thank you for that.
"Now, let's go eat." Arthur clamped a hand on Merlin's shoulder and they headed back to camp.
The next afternoon in Camelot the people gathered to hear the words of their king.
Up on the balcony, still hidden from the people's sight, Gwen kissed her husband's cheek. "I stand with you," she told him with a gentle smile.
Arthur returned the smile before stepping out into his people's view. Merlin stood off to the left of him a few feet back, and Gwen to the right. "My good people of Camelot," he began in a loud, clear, authoritative voice. "I know that great calamity seems to continually befall this people. Mordred has taken our friends and family members from us with the use of dark magic. And with this same dark magic, he has taken control over those he stole by allowing them to be possessed by vengeful spirits, and has created an army, which now marches toward Camelot."
Murmuring and cries erupted from the crowd out of fear.
Arthur held up his hand and waited for them to quiet down before continuing. "I do not tell you these things to cause you greater fear, but to be open and honest with you so that you may understand the course of action I must take. I know your fears, and I understand them. Please listen as I tell you the history of how we have come to this, and then you will understand what must be done in order for there once again to be peace in the land."
The crowd went silent as they waited for Arthur.
"Before I was born, my mother and father longed for a son. My father needed an heir, but my mother was not to have children. So my father sought out the sorceress, Nimueh, for help. She promised my mother would bear a son, but my father did not understand at what cost. My birth caused my mother's death. Because of this, my father blamed magic for his tragedy. He set laws that abolished magic. He all those guilty of using magic, and many only accused of it. The druids, who were always known to be peaceful, were butchered and driven from the land like wolves. Because of my father's fear of magic, and lack of understanding it, and his grief over the loss of his wife, many innocent people died."
The audience looked up in awe as Arthur spoke.
"It is not a wonder that some have risen up in rebellion, after having to live so many years in fear of who they are, and what they can do. It was my father's own fears, and the law he set, that forbids magic, that has caused this rift in my kingdom. And so it shall be, that if we wish to have peace in this land again, the law that forbids magic must first be done away."
The people broke out in horrified cries, but Arthur was quick to press on. "We can not hope for peace unless we first correct the injustice that caused war. I have seen first hand how fear of something we do not understand, or that is different, can cause hatred. I saw how my father's hatred for magic turned my sister, Morgana, into someone I did not recognize. Fear, hatred, and intolerance are the cause of this war, not magic. If we allow this injustice against those who possess magic to continue, than we have no one to blame but ourselves for our own destruction. For that is where our kingdom is headed if we do not change."
A solemn tranquility rested upon the crowd. Many eyes fell to the ground, while others looked to one another. It was clear how Arthur's words had affected them as they pondered silently upon them.
Arthur glanced back at Merlin, who appeared nervous but determined.
"Are you sure you want to do this?" Arthur asked.
Sir Leon, Sir Percival, Gwen and even Gareth who stood just inside all watched, waiting for Merlin to respond.
There had been much discussion the led to this moment. Early that morning, Arthur, Merlin, Gwen, Leon, Percival and Gareth, who "accidently" found out about Merlin's magic a few days ago, sat in Arthur's chambers at his rectangular, wooden table. They wanted to discuss this afternoon's announcement to the people about the law, that forbids magic, to be done away. Knowing the immediate danger that Mordred posed and the people's deep seated fear of those with magic, they knew they had to be precarious how to present it.
"Perhaps it is time for me to stop hiding," Merlin seemed to whisper it more to himself. Even though he kept his focus on the lines of the smooth, wooden table, Merlin could feel all the eyes in the room were on him.
Leon and Percival, who sat across from him, had adjusted quickly to the knowledge that Merlin was a sorcerer. It was like they always knew there was something different but special about Arthur's man servant. Merlin had long ago earned their friendship and trust, considering the countless times he stood with them even in the most dangerous circumstances, but now they revered Merlin as someone to look to for guidance. It was a strange change.
Gareth sat to Merlin's right. He was the one to change the most when it came to how he treated Merlin. When Merlin had returned to his duties, knowing there were still things he needed to do even if Gaius had been taken, Gareth had been most helpful. In fact, more than once, he offered to do Merlin's chores for him, saying again and again, "I'm sure you have more important work to do." He was humbled around Merlin and no more made superior comments about how he had not trained night and day for years to be stuck doing menial chores like Merlin. Because of this new attitude, Arthur allowed him to be present in their small council meeting.
"I admire your bravery, Merlin, but I don't think that would be the best idea," Arthur had said that morning. "If we reveal too much, too soon, the people might riot."
Gwen looked up, with full understanding on her countenance, "Arthur's right. This people have had too many trusted friends and allies known to betray them. Morgana, the king's beloved ward; Agravaine, Arthur's trusted uncle; and Mordred, a noble knight of the realm. All were believed by the people to be swayed by magic to turn against Camelot."
Leon and Percival nodded with agreement.
"I have been a knight long before you came to Camelot," Sir Leon said to Merlin. "I was a young boy when King Uther first enforced the law against magic. It was a hard time for the people, there were many riots, and many executions. I do not wish to see it be repeated with the doing away of that same law."
"Yes," Merlin had countered, "but Mordred knows of my magic, and if we do not take the initiative now, I fear then Mordred will reveal my secret in a way that will cause the people to lose trust in King Arthur."
"I agree with Merlin," Gareth had spoken. All eyes turned on him. He cleared his throat and spoke up, "I have not been here long, and I do not begin to understand all that you and this people have gone through, but I know the consequences of long kept secrets. Especially when those secrets are found out by other means instead of being revealed by the one that is keeping them. When I think about all the secrets my father kept from his family, I often wonder if Gwaine would not have ran away if my father had been honest with him."
Merlin took courage from Gareth's words, "Let us not give Mordred another opportunity to turn more of your people against you. It's time to be done away with secrets." As Merlin spoke, he knew there was another secret he would need to tell Arthur before Mordred arrived. Before today's end, Merlin would tell Arthur about the Great Dragon and everything that went with it. This was the last thing Merlin needed to confess before he would be completely free to be himself.
The discussion early that morning, that led to this moment with Merlin about to reveal he was a sorcerer to all of Camelot, felt like an eternity ago. Arthur had just asked him if he was sure he wanted to go through with it. Merlin didn't think it was possible to ever be "sure" about anything that could go so incredibly wrong. But what else could he do? Mordred and his army of sorcerers could be at their gates any day. No matter the consequences, it would be better for him to reveal himself now, than to allow Mordred a chance to. So Merlin gave Arthur a firm nod.
Arthur's mouth twitched in a nervous gesture, like he was hoping Merlin would have changed his mind. Merlin hadn't, so Arthur turned back to the onlooking crowd that gazed up at him from below.
"I use to believe as you do. I too feared magic and all those that wielded it, believing them all to possess some evil within them," Arthur said. "I have only recently learned how wrong that belief was. I have seen magic do great good. There is a sorcerer living among us who has selflessly sacrificed again, again to save Camelot."
The crowd was surprised as they looked to one another, wondering who Arthur was talking about.
Arthur pressed on quickly, knowing that if he did not his people's initial shock at this revelation would turn into a riot. "This sorcerer defeated Morgana, Morgause, Nimueh and countless other enemies. He helped us win the war against the Saxons, and Cendrid. He kept his secret these many years because of an unjust law that would have seen him executed if he was discovered. Despite being in constant danger, he remained in Camelot as a loyal servant to me and my people. I fear to think what would have been of Camelot if not for him. He has proven time and again that great good can come from magic. I wish…"
A man in the crowd, who had gotten up on a column, shouted, "The king has been deceived, again!"
Two guards began to maneuver through the crowd toward the man.
"He was deceived by Morgana, his uncle, and even one of his own knights, Mordred, who right now leads an army of sorcerers to tear down Camelot's walls. And now he wishes us to trust a servant of his, who has lied about being a sorcerer, just like all the rest?"
The guards reached for the man and pulled him down, but the damaged had been done. The people swarmed like angry wasps around the guards that stood in front of the castle doors. A chant rose up among them, "Burn the sorcerer! Burn the sorcerer! Burn the sorcerer!"
Arthur did all he could to gain control, nevertheless, it was too late. The people had become deaf to his voice out of their own terror. Arthur ordered the guards to keep the people back and then he turned and ushered all of them on the balcony inside.
Merlin remained where he stood looking down at the frenzy crowd below with a glazed look in his eyes. He was vaguely aware of Arthur trying to pull him inside. This was madness. Mordred had succeeded in creating so much fear of magic that the people of Camelot turned on their own king. Merlin felt his lungs expand as his breaths deepened. If something was not done now, than Albion may never be united. He was tired of this bigotry. He was tired of this endless war. He was tired of hiding. But mostly, he was angry, and maybe a little insane, with all those who had caused this madness, hatred and fear; Morgana, Morgause, Mordred, Nimueh and especially King Uther. No more! Merlin stepped forward showing himself to all the people.
"What are you doing?" Arthur asked in alarm.
Merlin ignored him. He raised his arms and began to speak the language of the old religion. His eyes turned a fierce gold. As he spoke, dark clouds gathered above. Lightning flashed across the sky, illuminating it in blue and green, and thunder's roar shook the ground. The wind picked up, lashing back and forth between the people, and rain fell in heavy drops, drenching them all. The riot below ceased and the people looked up, turning white when they saw Merlin. The wind whipped Merlin's red scarf, making it flap about, and his brown coat to fly open. Merlin stood before Arthur and the people transformed from a scrawny, dimwitted looking servant, into a fierce and powerful sorcerer. His head turned toward a spire atop the castle and lightning struck the very spot. Small pieces of rubble fell to the ground making a few people scatter.
"It's Merlin!" someone yelled out incredulously, over the splattering rain and howling wind, like they could hardly believe that he, of all people, was the sorcerer.
No one else spoke. Merlin lowered his arms, seeing now that he had all of their attention. The wind died down, the rain ceased, and the clouds began to disperse allowing the warm sun's rays to shine once again. All was quiet. Arthur, with his now wet, blond hair matted on his forehead, stood behind Merlin in total awe.
"I am the sorcerer, Emrys. I defeated the Saxons and the witches, Nimueh, Morgause and Morgana. If you wish to see me burn, then do so," Merlin spoke with an eerie calmness. "But know that I am your only hope in defeating Mordred. I have always been loyal to Camelot and its people, loyal because of a righteous king." Merlin gestured a hand at Arthur, who still looked too stunned to speak. "As you have just seen, I can destroy Camelot with a few words. I could have done it any day, at any time, in the many years I have lived among you. But I never have, and I never will. Even if you wish to destroy me now, I would not, because I believe in King Arthur and the peace he wishes to bring. I have fought for his cause, and I would die for his cause. If you wish for peace in all the land of Albion, than trust in your king as I have trusted in him. Whatever he decides is for the best, I shall follow, even if it means my life."
Merlin stepped back and bowed his head to Arthur. Arthur was still as a statue, until Merlin loudly cleared his throat. Arthur shook his head and stepped forward. The only sound coming from the people below was the sound of water dripping off the hems of their clothes onto the muddy ground. Arthur gazed down at the wet faces and said nothing for a long time. After a good minute past, he asked, "Do you wish me to execute this sorcerer, whom I too believe is our only hope against Mordred and his army, and for peace in all of Albion?"
Still no one made a sound, though few looked away.
"If you have nothing to say against my servant, Merlin, then I will now pass judgement. I hereby order a royal pardon for him and all like him. The law against magic is done away, and discrimination against those of the old religion will not be tolerated. However, set rules will be put in place that will protect all against those who wish to abuse the power of magic for their own purposes. Take courage, my people, for we will win this war Mordred as brought upon us, and we will take back all those loved ones he has stolen from us."
Arthur's notable amount of confidence he displayed had the right effect. The people cheered despite their dire circumstances. The tale of Emrys, and how he defeated the Saxons by bringing down lightning, had been widely spread throughout the land. Now learning that Emrys was Arthur's very own manservant brought on a complete change of perspective.
As the crowd dispersed, one man said, "With a sorcerer like Emrys protecting us, nothing can harm Camelot."
Another said, "A man as powerful as that, and he's loyal to our king."
"Our king must be great."
The doors to the balcony closed. They had all gathered back inside and were now staring at Merlin like he was some apparition who just appeared before them.
"What?" he asked, sounding as clueless as ever.
Arthur was the only one to speak, "You still scare me sometimes, you know."
"It all worked out," Merlin defended.
Mordred's army was coming from the north and was only days away. Arthur had ordered all those people, who lived in the path Mordred's army must take to reach Camelot, to leave their homes and set up camp just outside the castle where they would be safer. Though the druids agreed to help, only a few would reach Camelot before Mordred's army arrived. The problem was finding a way to defend Camelot with out killing all the innocent victims Mordred had taken. And without Gaius, that left Merlin to figure out how to exorcise all those that had been possessed by the vengeful spirits.
It was late when Arthur opened the door to Gaius's home and saw Merlin flipping through a book on the floor. He had just closed the door behind him when the book that was in Merlin's hands flew across the room and hit a wall.
Arthur watched the book fall to the ground and then turned to Merlin. "Found something useful?" he asked cheerfully.
"I need Gaius," he rubbed his eyes and stood up. Merlin's hair stuck up at funny angles, no doubt from being pulled, and his eyes were bloodshot, but not black, thankfully. He began to pace the length of the room, "I've learned a lot of things about magic and monsters, even fairies and dragons, but nothing that can help me with this. Gaius was the one who always knew what book to look in, or he'd have heard of something like this happening before and he'd just know what to do."
"You'll figure it out," Arthur tried to sound as encouraging as he could.
"No, I won't," Merlin said. "I'm losing my mind." Merlin grabbed the sides of his head. "Moments before you came, these books," Merlin gestured to the books that covered the floor, "were singing and dancing. And then they all started to say, 'Read me! I have the answer.' What if I go mad, again?"
Go mad? Arthur thought, more like are mad, again. Arthur decided it was best not to point that out. "Merlin, you're panicking, that's all."
Merlin plopped down on the bench at the table and covered his face. "I just need Gaius."
The wooden bench creaked next to Merlin and he gazed miserable through his fingers to see that Arthur had taken a seat beside him. "It's weird for me to be the one to remind you of this, but aren't you the greatest sorcerer that has ever lived?"
"That's what they keep telling me," Merlin said in a sardonic tone.
"Then, you'll figure something out. I believe in you."
"Why? I've lied to you, and kept things from you. And you know that I've forseen myself betraying you by bringing down the walls of Camelot. How can you believe I will save anyone, when I failed to save you?" The image of Arthur's lifeless form in Merlin's arms was still fresh in his mind, especially now.
"I'm still here," Arthur pointed it. "You haven't failed, yet. So don't give up." An idea suddenly came to Arthur, "What about your friend?"
Merlin looked up.
"You know, the one you haven't introduced me to. Can't he help, since Gaius isn't here?"
Merlin swallowed. The secret about The Great Dragon was one Merlin had still not revealed to Arthur. He remembered Gareth's words that morning about the importance of revealing one's own secret, and the promise he made to himself to tell Arthur before the night's end. It was time for Arthur to know. Besides, he would have to speak in dragon tongue when he faced the White Dragon. Last time he was too far away for Arthur to hear him, but that was probably not going to be the case this time. He needed to be unhindered in the battle against Mordred if he was going to defeat him. "About that…"
It was pitch dark that night as Arthur and Merlin trekked through the forest. The moon made no appearance, and they didn't bring any torches since Merlin insisted that they didn't need them. Merlin had conjured an orb of light to guide them on their journey.
Merlin was surprised that when he spoke the spell for the orb of light to appear, Arthur looked fascinated instead of showing his usual disapproving expression every time Merlin did magic. "I remember that orb," he said. "That's what guided me out of the cave when Nimueh had me trapped on a cliff."
Merlin nodded.
"Huh," Arthur said, happily.
A few minutes later, they were deep in the forest and heading upward.
"Is this friend of yours some sort of wise old hermit?" Arthur asked. He huffed, "Does he have something against living near roads, or on flat ground?"
"The climb doesn't really bother him," Merlin answered truthfully. "I've always said you need to get in better shape."
"Oh, shut up."
The cave of The Great Dragon was almost in view, so Merlin felt it was a good time to stop and explain a few things. He turned around to face Arthur.
Arthur raised a brow.
"There are some things I should warn you about before you meet him."
"Okay," was all Arthur said.
"You see, the thing is, you've meant him before, and you weren't, " Merlin searched for the right word to describe it,"...enthusiastic about it? You didn't meet under good circumstances."
Arthur glanced to the side, trying to recall who Merlin could possibly be talking about. He couldn't think of anyone.
"He's caused a bit," Merlin held his index finger and thumb an inch apart, "of trouble for Camelot. But, he has helped save you and Camelot many times, too."
Still Arthur couldn't fathom who Merlin was referring to.
"Maybe it will be better if you meet him and then I'll explain everything afterwards." Merlin pushed some bushes to the side and the cave was now in view. The Great Dragon was sleeping soundly at the mouth of the cave. Arthur stepped through and became very still as he beheld the Great Dragon. His eyes gradually widened as what he was seeing became clearer.
Then Arthur started to shake his head, his breathing deepened, his nostrils flared, and he started to back up.
"Perhaps I should have explained more first," Merlin said nervously. Even in the dim light, it was easy to see Arthur's sudden rage.
Without a word, Arthur turned around and headed back down the mountainside. Merlin had to practically gallop to keep up with Arthur's pace.
"I know this is a shock to you," Merlin said, a little shocked himself by Arthur's reaction.
"I don't know why," Arthur growled sarcastically. "Why should I be surprised that you," he whipped around to face Merlin, "areFRIENDS with the dragon that attacked Camelot years ago? I thought you said I killed him?"
Merlin opened his mouth to defend himself, but his words got stuck in his throat.
"Obviously, that was a lie. No surprise there." Arthur started down the mountainside again but then once more whipped around to face Merlin. "What happened that night? All I remember was being unconscious and then waking up, and the dragon was gone. Did you start chatting it up with the dragon, and figured, 'He's not so bad? Didn't kill that many people? I think I'll be a the BIGGEST IDIOT and let him go!'"
Merlin was starting to feel anger rise up in himself. "I know he attacked Camelot. But it wasn't right for King Uther to have him chained up like that."
Arthur looked dumbfounded.
Merlin stood his ground.
"I always wondered how he escaped," Arthur said, looking at Merlin suspiciously. "Don't tell me you let him free."
Merlin said nothing, which pretty much confirmed what Arthur had just guessed.
"I don't believe this," Arthur rubbed his forehead. He looked like he was about to explode, again that night.
"It was the right thing to do," Merlin spoke firmly.
A deranged smile touched Arthur's lips. Merlin began to wonder who was supposed to be the insane one. "The right thing to do? The right thing TO DO? Who gave you the right to decide what is right and wrong?"
"Who gave Uther the right?" Merlin shot back, just as angry as Arthur now.
"What?" Arthur growled.
"Uther used the Dragonlords," Merlin's voice turned icier as he spoke. "He deceived them into bringing the dragons to Camelot, promising them an offering of peace, and then he slaughtered them. He chained up the Great Dragon, and he hunted all the Dragonlords to extinction. Including MY FATHER!"
Arthur became still. "Your father?" Arthur asked, sounding more curious than angry at the moment.
"Balinor, the last Dragonlord."
"He was your father?"
Merlin nodded. "And I never really got to know him because he was always on the run for his life, thanks to your father."
Arthur quietly processed this.
"Now I am the last Dragonlord."
It became uncomfortably silent for sometime.
Arthur's face showed an array of emotion; surprise, guilt, sorrow, but he settled back on angry. "None of this condones your traitorous actions by letting the dragon go, and lying about him being dead. I don't even want to think about what other things you might have done, believing you were doing what was right."
Some lever, that told Merlin he cared what Arthur thought of him, switched off in his brain, which is why he said, plainly, "Then you should know that I am the one that saved the white dragon, when he was still in his egg, when your father injusticely wanted him dead too."
"Stop," Arthur demanded. "Just stop."
But Merlin didn't stop. "I do not hold you responsible, but whatever disaster these dragons caused, it was King Uther who started it. And if you want peace in all the land of Albion, you are going to have to let go of all the unjust prejudice that your father instilled in you."
Arthur started down, but stopped when he heard Merlin behind him. Without looking, he told Merlin, "Don't follow me back."
Merlin did as he was commanded, and was left alone in the dark, not sure how Arthur was planning to get back without the orb of light to guide his steps.
He stood there, facing the direction Arthur disappeared, for a long time. He could hardly believe what had just happened between them. He was not sure if he wanted to head back home, and brave Arthur again, or stay out all night and only return when Arthur begged him, once he realized just how much he needed Merlin. Leaving the decision till later, he headed back up the mountainside and quietly sat down on a rock near the Great Dragon's head. He closed his eyes and soon was asleep.
The early birds of morning began their song before the sun crested the horizon. The sky was a murky blue with a few gray clouds. Merlin shivered awake, regretting the decision not to return home last night. He opened his eyes to find that the Great Dragon was also awake looking at Merlin with his large golden eyes. His expression read concern.
"Something the matter, Young Warlock?"
Merlin rubbed the sting out of his eyes and answered, "I tried being completely truthful with Arthur last night, and I brought him here to show you to him..."
"And Arthur did not take it well?" the dragon asked, amused.
Merlin nodded.
"I wish you would have told me that you were planning to tell him, I would have advised against it."
"But with Mordred controlling the White Dragon, Arthur would have soon learned any way that I am a Dragonlord and then he would have wondered why I never told him."
The Great Dragon's thick, scaly brows slanted down, "Mordred controls the White Dragon? Impossible, he has no power over dragon's."
"I believe one of the dead sorcerers that converse with him has taught him how to speak the language."
"I suppose," The Great Dragon pondered loudly, " since the White Dragon is so young, it is possible that he is more deceptable to the language of the dragons. No matter, you should be able to take control of the White Dragon easily enough."
"I'm hoping so," Merlin said. "Though I must say, for a symbol of hope, this dragon has caused more harm to the future of Albion than good."
"Perhaps it is time for you to take him under your wing," the Great Dragon laughed, "so to speak, and teach him the right ways of his kind."
"Wouldn't it be best for you to teach him?"
"My time, as you know, is drawing near. I have one flight left in me, which I intend to take me to the grave where my fellow dragon's now rest. It will be up to you to teach the White Dragon about his kind."
Swallowing the hard lump at the back of his throat, Merlin nodded, "I will."
"You'll need to mend things with Arthur as well. The battle for the future of Albion draws near."
Merlin placed his hand on the Great Dragon's nose. The scaly skin was hot to the touch. "Thank you. I hope to see you again before you take your last flight."
The Great Dragon closed his eyes and laid his head back down.
Gwen rolled over onto her side to see that her husband, who had got back late, was already out of bed. Faint bluish, gray light of early morning filled the room. She rolled to her other side and saw him sitting by the fire, still fully dressed in yesterday's clothes. The fire's light played with the shadows of his face as he gazed into it.
"Arthur?"
He gave no sign that he heard her.
"Is something more troubling you, than what I already know?" She sat up, grabbed her robe that was hanging on her dresser, wrapped herself in it, and came to Arthur's side.
"Arthur?" she said again, sounding more concerned.
Arthur took in a long, steady breath, then spoke, "Merlin has a pet."
"A pet?" Gwen leaned back to look at her husband.
"Yep," Arthur said through gritted teeth. "A large pet."
Gwen continued to stare at her husband waiting for the important detail that explained why this upset her husband so.
"A dragon, in fact."
There it was. "A DRAGON!?" she shouted.
Arthur brought a finger to his lips.
"A dragon?" she said again, this time whispering.
Arthur ran his fingers through his hair and began telling her the events of last night. Gwen sat down on the fur rug beneath him, leaning on his knees, and listened. "I was so confident, that with everything we had been through, all that I had learned about Merlin and had come to accept, that nothing would surprise me. I was wrong. When I saw that dragon, the same dragon that had attacked Camelot years ago, I was infuriated. I couldn't believe that Merlin hid this from me. Not only is he friends with the dragon, he is the one that let the dragon go. For all his talk about wanting to protect Camelot and me, he has the gall to stand there and try to defend his actions that put the citizens of Camelot and myself in danger."
"Why did he release the dragon?"
"He said it was the right thing to do. Since my father killed all the dragons, and rightfully so. They were nothing but monstrous beasts. Merlin felt it was unjust for the dragon to be chained up, yet he must have understood that by releasing the dragon he was putting Camelot in danger." Arthur took in a quick breath and blew it out in a loud huff.
"Of course he should have, since King Uther had killed all the Great Dragon's kind, no doubt the dragon would want revenge" Gwen agreed, fully understanding Arthur's perspective. "But," she added hesitantly, "I don't remember any stories of dragons being particularly violent creatures."
Gwen did not see how Arthur's head snapped to look at her.
"In fact, when I was a little girl, I found this perfectly smooth, large, round rock by the river. I took it home, and pretended that it was a dragon egg. When times got hard, when there was little work, or food, I would imagine that my dragon egg would hatch and I'd jump on my dragon's back and we'd fly high up, up in the sky. We'd fly over mountains and lakes, and see other lands…" As Gwen felt herself getting lost in her fantasy, she chanced a glance at Arthur and found that he was frowning. She cleared her throat and fell silent.
Arthur's features soften, as they often did when was gazing upon his wife. He could see her embarrassment, about what she had just revealed to him, with how she fidgeted with her robe. Not being able to stand her uncomfort in front of him, he grabbed both of her hands and held them between his.
"Do you believe my father was wrong it getting rid of the dragons back then and locking up the Great Dragon?" he asked her intently.
Gwen squirmed, and bit her lip.
"Please, Gwen, just answer honestly."
Looking down at her hands that were being gently held by Arthur's, she answered the best she could, "I know that King Uther was a king who loved his people. But perhaps fear of things he didn't understand caused him to make...partial and maybe prejudice judgements."
Arthur lowered his head, "So you side with Merlin on this."
"No," Gwen answered instantly. "I can't honestly agree with Merlin or you. I don't know all the facts about why Merlin would do such a thing, and I can understand that the safety of your people will always come first, as it should. But this I know about Merlin, he will do what he believes is right, even if it brings harm to himself, or to all the people like him."
"What do you mean?"
"Years ago, after my father died..."
Arthur tensed, clearly remembering that Gwen's father died an unjust death by King Uther, but Gwen squeezed his hands and smiled warmly to reassure that all was fine now.
"Merlin came to me and asked me an odd question. I never forgot it, because of how much I pondered afterwards on it. He asked, if I held the power over life and death, would I kill King Uther?"
Arthur leaned back in surprise, "Why would he ask you that?"
"I don't know. I wondered that many times over the years. I told him no, that killing King Uther would make me a murderer. But now, knowing what Merlin is, I think I understand a bit more."
Arthur's heart began to hammer in his chest, but he remained silent, wanting Gwen to continue.
"I think Merlin faced that question many times as he remained in Camelot, by your side, knowing that if he was ever discovered he'd be killed. There were many threats to King Uther's life, but by some miracle he was saved. I imagine Merlin wondered, time and again, what was the right thing to do, whether to save King Uther or let him, and his hatred of Merlin and his kind, die. I believe he made the right choice again and again because of his love for you and his strong conviction in doing what is right, no matter the cost to himself or the people like him."
Arthur slumped back in his chair and blankly stared back into the fire. "What you are saying," he spoke with a hollow tone, "is that Merlin released the dragon, knowing it would bring harm upon Camelot, with that same strong conviction to do what is right that he had when it came to saving my father, knowing that saving my father would ensure the ongoing persecution of the people of magic."
With a heavy sigh, Arthur leaned forward and covered his face with his hands. "I need to go find him," he said.
"Where is he?" Gwen asked.
"I don't know," Arthur said, standing.
Gwen stood too, "He didn't come home with you last night."
"He probably didn't dare."
"Why?"
Arthur's lips pressed together, and then he answered honestly, "I told him, in a very threatening way, not to follow me back."
"You banished him!?"
"No."
"In a time like this, when an army of sorcerers are almost at our gates, you banish the only, and may I add, powerful, sorcerer that is actually loyal to you?"
"I was," Arthur's mouth worked, fumbling for an excuse, "angry."
Gwen stared in disbelief.
"It's Merlin," Arthur said, as if that explained everything. "I've yelled at him many times before, he always comes back."
A clearing of trees framed the castle of Camelot creating a spectacular, picturesque sight. Normally, Merlin would smile as the castle came into view from this spot on the mountainside, but right now, his stomach twisted and churned uncomfortably. He had to face Arthur, and soon. He was not going to apologize for the decision that he made, it took him a long time, and a lot of pondering, and a great deal of guilt, to come to the conclusion that releasing the Great Dragon had been the right thing to do. So he was not going to back down now.
He continued his descent when he heard, "Emrys," softly spoken, like it was carried on a breeze and into his mind. He closed his eyes, "Mordred," he said in a hiss.
"Emrys," Mordred spoke again. "I have someone you may want to see. He's still alive, for now. But that could change any moment."
"Gaius," Merlin exclaimed in alarm.
Merlin felt that strange connection that he always had when Mordred spoke to him in his mind. That connection always showed Merlin how to find Mordred. With no more thoughts of Arthur, and only thoughts of saving Gaius, Merlin ran down the mountainside, keeping his mind focused on his connection with Mordred.
"You're on your way," Mordred's airy voice spoke. "Good. I need to talk to you about something."
Merlin growled as he ran. Mordred was close. Closer than he should have been, unless the scouts Arthur sent out to track the sorcerer army's progression toward Camelot were wrong. That would be catastrophic. The druid would arrive today, and they had yet to form a plan in defending Camelot without killing any of the innocent people Mordred had taken.
Merlin came to a halt at a river, the length of two tall men across. On the other side, Mordred stood with a wicked smile, holding a intricate dagger in his hand. Merlin could sense an enchantment on the dagger, but he gave it little thought, and was more focused on how the sharp blade was cutting into Gaius's throat. Gaius had a large, nasty looking, purple and blue lump on his forehead and he was bleeding from his nose and bottom lip. He was breathing heavily as he tried to remain standing so the dagger would not cut into him anymore than it was.
"Let him go," Merlin ordered.
"No," Mordred laughed. "That's not how this works."
"Fine," Merlin said. "What do you want?"
"You see, there was a problem. Gaius resisted being possessed by one the vengeful spirits. So, I have no use for him, and I was thinking about letting him go, but then I realized, of course, leverage!" He said in a high pitched voice, like the idea was pure brilliant. "Why not use Gaius to spur Emrys into a fight to the death with me, and once you are dead, Camelot will have no choice but to surrender, and by so doing, save many lives."
Mordred lowered his head, and looked up at Merlin through his dark, brows. "What do you say, Emrys? Let's end this war before it can begin."
"Merlin," Gaius shook his head. He coughed as he struggled to breath. "No, don't do this."
Merlin's anger caused his blood to boil. "Agreed," he said, not even considering Gaius's words.
With that, Mordred threw Gaius roughly to the ground, which only made Merlin more enraged. His eyes blazed gold, and before Mordred could think to act, fire erupted beneath his feet. Mordred yelped and stepped back, he started to utter words of the old religion to attack back, but Merlin didn't wait, or care what spell Mordred conjured. Merlin's blood vessel's in his eyes turned black as he raised one hand and threw Mordred to the ground. In desperation, Mordred brought the dagger up over Gaius and brought it down swiftly, intending to stab him, but Merlin, with powerful magic flowing like a rushing river through his veins, yanked the dagger from Mordred's hand. It flew into the air, turned and flew straight into Mordred's side.
Mordred gasped in pain and surprise. He placed his hand on the black, leather bound hilt of the dagger, and then...he smiled and finished his spell.
The world began to swirl around Merlin so fast that he was becoming dizzy. Somewhere in the sound of billowing wind in his ears, that roared like a waterfall, and in the madness of colors that flew by, he heard Gaius yell his name. When the world slowed and finally came to a stop, he could make out Gaius beside him looking bewildered. He felt a sharp pain in his side and placed his hand over it, only to find his hands touching the hilt of a dagger. He looked down at the dagger protruding from his body and fear squeezed his heart. Then he looked up across the river, to the most horrid scene he could ever imagine. There, standing triumphantly, he saw himself smiling down at him.
"Mordred," Merlin croaked. He shut his mouth, not just because it hurt to speak, but because his voice was not his own.
Merlin watched in panic as Mordred, who now possessed Merlin's body, stepped into the river. The water rose, washing over him, and then Mordred was gone, taking Merlin's body with him.
Check out my first published novel, A GRIM AWAKENING: THE FOREST OF HOLLOW. It is now up for sale. If you are interested, search it up on Barnes and Noble, or Amazon. Also, there is a book trailer on Youtube!
Here is a synopsis -
Awaken to a grim world once hidden before your eyes.
There must be something wrong with 13-year-old, Ian Grim. Why else would Mitchel Trent, who everyone believes to be the nicest guy in school, bully him? Why did everyone at school give him nasty looks and whisper about him in spiteful gossip? Even teachers didn't like him. They always made him sit in the far corner of their classrooms where it was easy to ignore him. Even more hurtful, was the fact that Ian's own father blatantly ignored him. If it wasn't for his loving mother; his fun, yet psycho, younger brother; and his own sparkling sarcastic personality; Ian might think his life was a bit difficult. That is, until his mother goes missing one night.
In a twist of cruel irony, his father finally pays Ian's some attention only to threaten his life and force him on the run. Desperate for answers, Ian is compelled to accept help from Mitchel, the "nice" bully from school. That's when Ian learns that his mother was taken by the Reaper
If Ian wishes to save his mother, he must first survive his father. And in order to do that, he will need to learn of the spirit world, discover his own power, and embrace his role in an ongoing shadow war, before the Reaper tears his world apart.