"We have been in this trench for over a week." Uther remarked. "I don't mind smelling like shit if it gets us somewhere but no one has been able to find a way that we can attack this castle with the men we have." Night had fallen for the eight day and Uther was beginning to have second thoughts.

Gorlois playfully hit him on the side. "Then we forget that plan Uther. I'll send the rest of my men back picking only the best. Let's ignore a frontal assault."

"Explain."

"I have contacted the knight inside I told you about, a Sir Ector. The usurper raped his sister then killed the child from the loyal. He remains loyal only to ensure his sister's safety. If we can get in the keep he can direct us to Vortigern's chambers."

"If Gorlois. How are we to get inside when you propose sending most of our men away?"

"Vortigern is not a hydra. His son's and daughters are weak and share none of his craft. Cut off the head and many will bow. We only need to infiltrate the castle, which Ector knows well. Vortigern has armies but they are led by weak men easily cowed. The Usurper killed off all your father's strong commanders to ensure his utter dominance. Unfortunately he ensured his own dynasty's destruction."

"If I can take down that dog with few men I will do it." Uther replied. "Which means we will have no tools or engines to scale these wall . No rope could reach the top parapets and if we tried to leapfrog level by level we would be caught. I suppose you have a plan for this as well?"

Gorlois chuckled as he began to darken his sword with pitch to deflect the moonlight. "That is where Vivienne and Gauis come in."

They began the assault five hours later. The grapples were accurate and the ropes kept growing until they reached the ground. Preparing for the long haul, Uther suddenly felt the rope contracting. Within a minute he was on top of the fortress. Gorlois, Vivienne, Gauis and eight other knights. Soon they were met by Sir Ector.

"My Prince." The man said bowing low. "The Usurper has taken his evening meal and is in his chambers. I have the guard schedule we will move unseen. Besides the promise of my sister's safety I want one more thing."

"And that is?"

"I want you to rescue and pardon my friend, former Captain of the Guard Sir Caradoc."

Caradoc was easy to find, strung on a cross on the highest point of the fortress. Though in no position to fight, he gave Uther and his men all the required pass codes, which he insisted hadn't been changed, as well as the codes for the next three months. He also gave them the keys to the armory, hidden in a less then proper place on his anatomy. With Gaius to watch him, Uther led the rest of his band below.

Within an hour, fully fitted as Vortigern's own soldiers, they began the quick and silent slaughter across the halls. Blood dripped into the stones and still no warning had been shouted. When Uther finally found his way to his father's former chambers he abandoned all stealth and began to slaughter man woman and child mercilessly.

Arthur's head continued to pound and judging by Merlin's state the entire morning so was his manservant's. Either Gaius's remedy was useless or the old physician had purposely given them both placebos. He still was surprised at how he had behaved himself last night. He had gotten quite drunk and had made Merlin promise never to tell the part where he fell asleep on the floor and his manservant passed out on his bed. Arthur was at his wits end currently especially since Uther refused to dismiss the council after Lot and his retinue, including the seductive Morgause, had left the room.

Negotiations had started officially and it was clear Camelot was going to go to war, for a foreign and disposed King nonetheless. Arthur took another drink of water trying to focus. He was never going to drink that much again. He had embarrassed Kay, probably insulted Morgana, and definitely had let down his father. The King's cold tone towards him that morning told as much. He wanted the council to come to an end just so he and his father could be along and work through the issues.

Uther began to speak and Arthur's eyes drifted towards his father, falling over the woman on the king's left. Arthur had some idea of what happened. He had wanted to go to her chambers and apologize for his recent behavior. His idiot manservant had stopped him, probably for the better as they had both been drunk. Kay had arrived and stopped them both.

"Call the banners." His father said. "Cornwall, Dumnonia, Somerset, Dorset and all their lesser Lords. We will assemble at Camelot and I plan to march on Essetir in March. All Lords are to be here before Samhain and all troops by Imbolc."

"Of course Sire." Lord Erral began. "How many troops are to be summoned?"

"As many as can be spared. We will review the numbers when the Lords assemble in the next several weeks. We will need everything we can to crush Cenred while protecting our own forces from severe loss."

"Of course Sire." Erral continued. "But I must, in the closed council session, express my disinterest in this war. We are not aggressors and have never been. It has been the duty of Camelot too..."

Uther half rose in his chair. "My duty is to protect Camelot, and the greatest threat is sorcery which has now engulfed the whole of Cenred's kingdom. I do not do this for my own glory, and if I did it would be your duty to follow me, or die were you sit!"

Erral paled, and Arthur was now fully attentive. The king's next words surprised Arthur. Geoffrey of Monmouth tried to hide a cough and Gaius's eyebrow rose. Morgana gave the King a slight grimace and Merlin almost dropped his water jug. Only Kay, Caradoc and Ector were unmoved.

Uther stood slowly. "I have not, in these past fifteen years, been the King I should have been, the King Camelot deserves." Uther placed both hands on the table. "I have already mentioned this when discussing the second Purge but I want you all to know that it was not simply sentiment for the people. After the first Purge ended after its two year prosecution I had generally removed myself, content to let others fight for me, to bleed for me."

He moved and placed a gentle hand on Morgana's shoulder, gripping slightly. Arthur noticed a slight flinch. She kept her eyes focused on the table in front of her, even though Uther was looking straight into her eyes. "The first casualty brought about by complacency was my dear friend Gorlois. He was like a brother to us four." He gestured at the first of his Knights. I will never let that happen again. Such as it is then, my intention is to lead the armies myself once March is upon us."

Arthur muttered under his breath. He had been fourteen, seven years ago when Camelot had fought her last open war against Mercia. Ector and Kay had been battlefield commanders. It had been his initial true taste of combat and the first time when he realized that his father wasn't watching his progress. Uther had remained behind in Camelot. In truth the last pitched battle that Uther had ridden out for had been that fateful day in Cornwall when he and Gorlois had marched from Tintagel to subdue a marauding force of Saxons.

"My Lord." Erral began. "It is wise and admirable that you seek to do this, but we need a strong leader here in Camelot to continue the Purge and keep the law when you are gone. I fear such a man can only be found in you, or in Lord Ector."

Merlin always treated him like an idiot, but he had learned to read Lord Erral a long time ago. Morgana taught me. When she wasn't being insufferable.

Erral appeared so humble, never wanting to sing his own praises, trying to stroke Uther's ego just enough so he would leave him in charge of Camelot. Let him skim more from the coffers. Arthur groaned. Erral had been indicted on corruption before but always got away with it. Arthur shook his head. Think about fighting. Tactics. Leave politics to...politics people.

"You're words are kind." Uther began, all charm and grace. "For a sycophant."

Collected gasps around the room from other councilors. Kay and Ector smiled. Caradoc of course, never did.

"Sire I must..."

"You must be quiet Erral." Uther began calmly. "Lord Agravaine will be more than happy to show you how to rule Camelot when we are gone. Let this be a lesson to all of you. Your positions as Lords are afforded based on your birthright. The law of the land forbids me from stripping you of all titles for anything less than treason. Regardless I still won't tolerate incompetence."

Erral appeared to be simmering in anger but knew better then to defy the king openly.

Uther continued. "All are dismissed. I need to meet with my private council now. Erral leave us today, let this be a lesson on where flattery gets you. Morgana, join me for dinner tonight."

She inclined her head gracefully. "Of course my Lord." She rose and walked out of the room without taking a backwards glance or acknowledging Arthur's presence.

"You too Merlin." Arthur gestured.

Merlin shook his head and began to walk out, leaving himself, Gauis, Geoffrey, the three knights and the King alone. What was with Merlin? What made the idiot think he could attend closed council?

Uther's voice rose to a shout. "Boy! Bring back the Lady Morgana, instruct her to join us."

Ector glanced at the king. "Uther she is not a duchess, not unless she marries. I cannot see what input she might have save to go against you at every turn."

Arthur gripped and released his sword hilt, but allowed his father to answer. He never liked how his father's eldest knights seemed to have no respect for either himself or Morgana, and how the king simply allowed it. He may be at odds with Morgana but he held some affection for her.

"Igraine was always a strong presence during closed council," The King said. Arthur now was worried. His father never talked about his mother. "And though Morgana has no grace or poise to act like my Late Queen in public, in private she will have things to offer." Uther turned his voice down as Morgana entered in her white dress. "We need someone like Gorlois."

"My Lords." She bowed.

"Lady Morgana." Uther said a tad too formal Arthur thought. "It is my intention that you hear what is said today. I trust you, and all of you, will keep what is said a secret. It is never to be mentioned again outside of my presence alone, is that understood?"

They all answered affirmative as Uther continued. "Especially to Lord Erral. He may be a member of this council but I have been considering removing him."

"He is powerful Uther." Ector began. "And has many supporters."

"I only hope my tone with him in public will sober his attitude. Agravaine will be able to watch him when we march and if he refuses to give me troops, I have all the charges of treason that I need. We may need to fully clean court. Again I have been out of sorts these past years and I cannot rest the blame on you Ector; you have practically ran this kingdom's economy by yourself."

Ector merely nodded.

"In preparations for our upcoming alliance with Lot, I have mulled over many options with Kay and Ector. Militarily we are weaker than Lot and Cenred combined. Even after we defeat Cenred Lot may have the upper hand depending on how many men we have lost, and I assure you Lot will try to keep his troops out of the fighting. He prefers mercenaries; it has always been his way."

"He is a looter, a warlord turned king." Kay began. "In Vortigern's time and the King's as well, he was renowned for his accumulation of wealth. He has raided from south west Albion to the coasts of Ancient Gaul."

"In other words," Uther interjected, "He may have more forces then we are aware of. We need to strengthen our alliance, cement it in a way that it will not be broken without outside consequence from the other kingdoms. Arthur, what are your suggestions?"

Arthur started and looked up, glancing at the faces in the hall. Morgana wore her smirk openly, the bitch. Kay was solemn, maybe disappointed. Ector was smirking and Gaius and Geoffrey had straight faces that were clearly containing their smiles. Insolent pigs

"A...marriage." He saw the smirk from Morgana's face replaced with a scowl. "Yes, an marriage between the kingdoms will secure our place in the alliance."

Arthur's smug smile began to vanish when he saw his father's own smirk. "And you have any suitable Ladies in mind Arthur?"

Arthur glanced at Morgana, back to Uther and then reddened in embarrassment. You idiot. Merlin was right you are a clotpole. You just suggested marriage between Morgana and Lot.

"Well...no father, I haven't thought of it at all in truth..."

"You haven't thought of it." Uther huffed. "Why am I not surprised? Tell me Arthur, what do you think about Morgana?"

Morgana looked infuriated and had Arthur not been so embarrassed by his stumbling in front of the councilors and his father, he would have enjoyed her discomfort slightly. It was always amusing to tease her.

"Morgana." He began. "Is nice, passionate about her...thoughts...she reads, is beautiful.."

He was broken off by Kay bursting out laughing along with his father. Ector snorted. Caradoc looked bored. He could feel the blood rushing to his face and ears.

Morgana smirked wickedly in his direction and licked her lips quickly. She placed a hand delicately over her heart. "Oh Arthur, I never knew you felt this way about me." She said sarcastically.

Uther and Kay sobered. "You truly need to read more Arthur and then you would understand what I meant. I mean what would you think about Morgana being married to Lot?"

"My Lord," Morgana began, anger surfacing but Uther cut her off with a hand, and a look of slight amusement, but not directed at her, which seemed to calm her annoyance.

Arthur groaned. The looks of amusement were all for him. Why couldn't I be smart with speeches and politics the way I am with fighting? Maybe if I attempt to bicker..Yes Lords always do that."Father, I think Morgana would be a perfect match for Lot. She is very much like him. She is insensitive, likes swords more than brushing her own hair, tries with her appearance though it doesn't help, and speaks her mind when no one wants to hear what she has to say. Kindred spirits. It will cement our alliance."

No one laughed but Gaius snickered. Arthur's smile faded as Kay spoke up. Morgana looked hurt. "If you are done with insults Arthur, your father's lesson in all of this is that if you are to propose a course of action, think through all its facets before opening your mouth. The seriousness of this matter is not something to joke about. Even if Lot is not in league with Cenred discovery of a deception like this would lead to diplomatic and domestic concerns about the integrity of the crown. What we do is necessary but that doesn't make it savory. Your opinion will affect the lives of many Arthur when you are king."

Arthur felt sick. He had such high prospects concerning Kay's arrival. He had wanted to impress his mentor. His impetuousness was getting the better of him.

"Marriage is a terrible idea son." Uther began a few moments after Kay went silent. "Amongst friendly kingdoms it will cement an alliance, but with a man as mistrustful as Lot, it would never work. And while Morgana would be suitable given her rank, I would never offer her to a brute like him."

Morgan huffed but said nothing.

"Morgana, what would you suggest." Uther said making it clear he heard her. "And objectively, not your personal feelings on King Lot."

"We need more information my Lords." Morgana said business like. How does she do this? Both her and Guinevere now how to handle nobles with a simple tone.

"We need to know where his forces are and their true number. We may also need someone close to him. Sire I cannot help but think that we are in the weaker position. Lot is not a man who will be bound by words or oath, and a man who desires wealth will always want more."

"Such as much Kay, Ector and I discussed last night Morgana." The King replied. "When Lot appeared recently I was skeptical. If we go to war, even if Lot is honest, we will still be weaker for other kingdoms. We are not on good terms with Mercia and Bayard's latest rhetoric clams that he may strike an alliance with some of the Saxon tribes. If Lot was truly honorable an alliance would cement us against western aggression. But he is not and he would turn on us if offered Mercian or Saxon gold. He has always envied Camelot even when Vortigern held this fortress."

"Of course Uther." Ector rubbed his whitening beard. "We decided that we had only two courses, to ignore Lot and turn him over to Cenred, or to go along with this alliance. The first we cannot do, for Cenred harbors sorcerers and many more may flock in the coming weeks. Also if this is a ploy on Lot and Cenred's parts turning the actual king of Essetir back to its Prince will gain us no good will. The second may lead to our destruction, for we must strike. You cannot be allied with a king who has no lands."

"Uther arrived at one decision then." Kay spoke. "It is the meaning for this secrecy. It may be tasteless to some, but Lot is every bit the viper that Vortigern was. The King is correct in his decision, we must make Camelot stronger if we hope to protect our people from all ills, and this, with new lands will ensure that."

"New lands?" Arthur stated and stared from Kay back to his father. "The treaty stipulates that we are taking some of his fiefdoms but…"

"Indeed son." Uther rose slightly in his chair and drank from his wine goblet. "It is my intention to locate and buy off Lot's mercenaries and to find out how many troops he has. We will crush Cenred, but we will also crush Lot."

Arthur tried to shut his ears at the brief arguing from Gaius and Geoffrey, Gaius concerned with what would happen if their plot was discovered, and Geoffrey concerned about honor.

"My Lord Camelot has always been built upon the knightly virtues." Geoffrey spoke. "A betrayal of this magnitude may mean war between all five kingdoms. War against us. This is something Vor…Bayard or Lot would do."

If Uther noticed the slip he didn't pay it any attention.

Morgana spoke as well. "The plan is militarily sound, but diplomatically it could be a disaster, and all for sorcerers Uther?"

"Morgana I have warned you to stop flirting with such thoughts. This is for the safety of Camelot. For once, and maybe only this once, this plan is not about rooting out magic, but rooting out a dangerous enemy."

"Father I agree with Morgana." Arthur quickly moved to clarify his position. "It is a diplomatic disaster."

"Which is why we will uncover Lot's treachery." Uther began.

"What treachery father?" Arthur knew his father saw sorcerers from the shadows, perhaps the same paranoia was encroaching into the realm of statecraft. Magic was one thing, banned throughout most of the kingdoms, but this was far more dangerous.

Caradoc coughed then and sighed slightly. "Arthur I never once believed the tale that Lot and Cenred had a failing out. They were the closest brothers I ever knew, having fought side by side and against them in the past. They even share the same women."

Morgana made a face of disgust turning to Caradoc, who pointedly spoke back. "Apologies Lady Morgana, but it is true."

"Regardless," Uther said with a dismissing wave of his hand. "My command to you all is to find evidence of this treachery, evidence that can be legally determined by Geoffrey to be casus belli, and bring it before this council."

Caradoc spoke. "I have made contact with one his advisors but nothing more. Gaius, Geoffrey, myself will observe in the shadows. Arthur, Morgana find out what you can from the warriors he has brought. Especially the Lady Morgause. I want to discover more about her role in Lot's court."

"And if there is no such evidence father?" Arthur implored ignoring Caradoc.

"Then all of you have failed me." Uther waved his gloved hand, indicating the closed session was over.

"Your childish bickering with Morgana will stop Arthur, am I to be understood?" Uther spoke when all had departed the room. "I know she can be infuriating, I know that she had disrespected you in the past, even recently when I...unjustly struck her. I think of her as my daughter, she deserves the respect that such position entails. I cannot legally make her a princess and will not give her the rank of duchess without a marriage, but she is First Lady of Camelot."

"Yes father." Arthur replied.

"That is all you have to say?" Uther said, rounding on him. "Morgana may always fight me, drive me to anger but you embarrassed me today, Arthur!" His voice began to rise. "You are my son, the future King, and you cannot answer any of my questions, you do not know how to lead a state!"

"Father I..."

"You're what Arthur? Good at a sword? So am I, but when I was younger then you I tore this kingdom from Vortigern and turned a land from anarchy to peace! I restored my father's throne and built a legacy that you will keep!"

"Yes father."

"Lord Errall is but a symptom of a larger problem. Without my blessing men like Monmouth and other assessors cannot directly challenge or investigate Lords. Camelot may be ripe with corruption and for all his talents Ector is more soldier then leader. He alone has been keeping our economy afloat but craftier Lords have surely taken advantage. He is old as well, and while he will lead an army even on his deathbed, I cannot continue to make him responsible for running this kingdom. It's time you became more active Arthur.

"It takes more than a good sword to lead an army. The common men and knights may follow you because of your skills as a warrior, but the Lords, the financial supporters of the armies need to follow a king. I am putting you to the test Arthur. Starting today you will take a more responsibilities in court. Caradoc, Bedivere and Leon are more than capable of training the knights. You are going to be trained, by me, by Kay and Ector, on how to be a king. If you fail to impress me this coming year during the war, I may only be able to salvage my legacy by marrying you to some princess who understands the court."

"Yes father."

"Arthur. Never show up again to council hung-over." Uther glared at him. "There was not one Lord or Lady in attendance that did not see their future Prince bumbling around like a drunkard. Get out. I have had enough disappointment for one day. I have business to attend to so you will sit in judgment later."

Merlin stood awkwardly through the court sessions as trivial crimes were tried. However Arthur was now faced with the unavoidable and heinous. Merlin clenched his fists, tried to shut his ears, looking at Arthur, pleading for him to do differently then is father. Three people had been brought forward accused of sorcery and vetted by Caradoc. One had deliberately attacked Camelot two days prior in a pathetic attempt at poisoning outlying crops. The other two were a simple farming couple and had been found guilty of constructing poultices to support their meager income. He needed Arthur to stop the bitter cycle of his father.

"Captain of the Guard." The Prince began looking sick and out of place. "You know the crime, and the punishment." Without further word, without passing judgment himself the prince left condemning three people, two completely innocent, to die.

Merlin moved away from the throne room and once out of sight he broke into a run. He shoved past courtiers, servants, knights and Lords, Gwen and Morgana, even ignoring Gaius as his feet continued to travel. He didn't stop until he reached the cave, and finally broke down in tears.

"I cannot continue to do this Kilgharrah!" Merlin yelled, snot still dripping from his nose, after he related all that had happened."Arthur is fully under Uther's control, and I can't stop it. We are apparently going to war against Cenred, all in the name of the Purge, and I am lost without free use of my magic!"

"Young Warlock I never said your destiny would be easy, but you have not headed my advice in the past, and look now where it has brought us."

"Then give me some advice! Tell me what to do before Arthur turns into Uther, or before he kills his own father and destroys himself!"

"Stop protecting Uther. He must die."

Merlin began to shake his head.

"Merlin you have asked for advice. Kill Uther. Kill the king, with you by his side Arthur will grow into the man that will unite Albion."

"Out of the question!"

"But would you have Arthur do it? One day Uther will push him too far and the layers of lies will crash down. It has already begun the young Prince will not long be content with an even more overbearing father. Would you have the boy destroy himself by killing his own kin?"

"I am not a murderer Kilgharrah!"

" Indeed and yet how many have you killed in your quest for a united Albion young Warlock, how many more will you kill?"

"This is different, those were in self defense!"

"All of them?" The dragon sneered. "Do not deceive yourself Merlin, you have struck preemptively as all of us must one time or another. Trust me in this. I am your one true friend."

Merlin grew angry but his tears continued. "You are my only friend because you have made it so! I cannot tell anyone about my magic and the one person I can trust, the one person who I should confide in you insultand label as a witch! I have distanced myself from her, and in front of Arthur I can only be his idiot servant!"

"You have grown far away from the Lady Morgana as you should have young Warlock." The dragon then continued harshly. "You think you have suffered in your nineteen years as much as I have in my thousands? I had a brother once, a mate and friends abundant to rule the skies before Uther slaughtered us. You are my only friend now Merlin. Those of us who are great, who are called by destiny must serve none but that calling, we cannot feel sorry for ourselves."

"But I want more." Merlin begged. "I cannot be without companionship, I cannot live alone. I cannot continue to stand by and watch people get slaughtered, no matter the cost of the future."

"You mortals always speak like you can comprehend the expanse of time, which is ironic for you young Warlock. I sometimes wonder if the power was given to the right person. You must be a slave to your destiny, as I am. As Arthur will one day realize."

"No. I am done with hiding, I am done with lies. I will gain the respect I deserve. Arthur may not be ready but Morgana is. She needs to know the truth. I will carve out my destiny but I will do it with my friends not alone with only you."

The dragon let out a laugh and it echoed across the cave. "Let's talk about friends. Merlin you speak of Gaius. He was a young sorcerer, barley thirty in the service of High Priestess Nimueh. Never had I thought I had seen a more loyal man. Then Igraine died and he cast his own mistress from the court on the King's orders. He will follow Uther not you. You speak of Lancelot, the common man who still feigns nobility. He is noble in his own right, a fierce fighter but a gentle soul who would follow you, but he would be cast away like the chaff in the face of greater men like Caradoc and Ector. You speak of Arthur, but if he knew he would reject you, and though I think he would not execute you, your betrayal would destroy him. Without you by his side he will be swept into Uther's shadow and Albion will be united by blood.

Finally you speak of the Lady Morgana. If you indeed are Emrys and Arthur is the Once and Future King then she is definitely the Fay that the prophesies of my kind speak of. The one who will destroy Arthur. Now she is innocent and kind, not afraid to speak out against injustice, and she may indeed be a friend for all who practice magic. But deep down she cannot shake the loss of her father, or the affection she craves from Uther even though she finds him at times despicable and his policies irreconcilable. Should you choose not to reveal your magic she will think herself a monster, her childhood tainted by Uther's vile teachings and in response as her magic manifests she will become the monster she fears she is. Tell Morgana your secret and Arthur's destined enemy will hold something over your head. She will start out willing and sweet, but she will crave more, and you may resist, but I doubt it."

"Enough Kilgharrah I have..."

"You will continue to listen Merlin; I will rant in your mind if you will not be quiet. You must know these futures. She will grow powerful, maybe even as great as you, but at a close rival at the least. You might think you can control your apprentice, but no more than Uther controlled Gorlois. Eventually power will become her goal and you and Arthur will stand in her way, for she will seek to bring all magic back, even the darker, forbidden arts."

The dragon's voice then became calm, soothing. "Young Warlock I once desired a mate that was wrong for me. I know you think you have feelings for her but it is simple lust. What young human male would not? If magic was accepted she would have been the perfect mate for you, and you would have a higher standing. She has been corrupted since birth, by slight indifference from Gorlois and absolute hate from Uther were magic is concerned. The daughter of Gorlois can never be your friend, trust me on this."

Merlin felt defeated after the Dragon's outburst. He claimed to know the future, but how sure were these prophecies? His mother had always taught him that destiny was of his own making even before Kilgharrah had said the same.

"I reject this, all of this Kilgharrah!" Merlin shouted. "You have said it before, and it has been the only piece of your advice that I will take. I will make my own destiny!"

Kilgharrah shook his head closed his eyes, he spoke dismissively. "Go Merlin. Ignore what I have to say. In a few days time, when the treaty is ratified you will see Uther's old enemy. Then everything will begin to change, Uther will be firmly set upon the path of the Red Dragon and Morgana will begin to slide into darkness. You cannot stop this."

Merlin began to run, his tears had turned to anger, his magic burned upon his flesh, threatening for release. He relished in the feeling. He could kill Uther, kill them all. Establish a kingdom of sorcery, rule over it. Is this what Kilgharrah wanted? He stopped, breathing heavily, getting his emotions under control. His mother would not have wanted that. And he could not betray Arthur. He walked from the cave, hearing the Dragon echoing in his mind.

"Kill Uther. Kill the King. Kill the King. Kill the King..."

Morgana paced in her chambers sipping the wine Gwen had brought up. The joy she had felt during the council meeting when Uther let her into his confidence, when he acknowledged her opinion, had faded into disgust when she saw the crosses being carried out to the main road. Still, she knew what to expect, had seen it on the agenda in the morning. She was determined not to let it ruin her day. She would never forgive Uther for his slaughter, never forgive him for striking her, but she would play the more dutiful ward, allow his prosecution of the war to take charge of his schedule instead of his hatred of magic. She felt she could manipulate him, eventually, earn his confidence.

She only hoped she could do it without Arthur's expense. Though some part of her was gleeful at his bumbling during the council given his avoidance of her the past few months. She pushed her childish thoughts aside. She knew, and could relate to how much he craved and needed his father's approval. She knew he would be inconsolable for a week at least. Arthur may have been oblivious during the council, but she read Uther's mood and knew when he remained alone with the King that he had been given a verbal thrashing. Well good. He needs to act less like a boy, and more like a king. He had embarrassed Sir Kay last night, as well as this morning. She could always go to him, attempt to make it up, but she was too stubborn.

Noticing Gwen's solemn exterior she held her maid's shoulders, turning her towards her face with a smile. "Gwen? What's wrong? You look so morose. It's Uther isn't it?"

Gwen offered a weak attempt at a smile. "When is it not my Lady? But it's not this time. Nothing to worry yourself with."

"What is it Gwen? Seriously you can tell me."

"My Lady..." Gwen was reluctant and looked away.

Morgana's mouthed opened and closed. "It's Lancelot isn't it?"

Gwen stepped back in mild shock. "Morgana! That's not appropriate."

"What's not appropriate Gwen?" She asked in mock annoyance. "He's handsome, polite, noble, everything a Lady could desire."

"He's noble Morgana, nothing could ever happen between us."

Morgana raised an eyebrow. "We both know he's not noble Gwen. I took care of as much after Arthur and Merlin's travesty at 'fooling' Geoffrey."

"Morgana, he wants to be a Knight, I would never take that away from him."

"Damn the consequences." Morgana said, slightly forcefully. "A Knight may be a Lord but he is a minor Lord. I want you to be happy."

Gwen shook her head. "My Lady what of yourself?"

Morgana took her hand. "If I was duchess in a second I would have raised your father to the position he deserved. He served my father well, as he had served Uther. Before the King betrayed him."

"Morgana..."

"People need to be rewarded Gwen, for what they do, not because of their position."

Gwen nodded. The conversation had taken a sharp turn from Lancelot. "Morgana I still don't understand...where is this all coming from?"

Morgana smiled and shook her head. "Gwen I...I've just been thinking of what I'd do, if I had to rule a duchy, or if I was a queen."

Gwen offered a slight smile and motioned to a group vase of flowers.

"From Sir Kay?" Morgana asked.

"No, Arthur, you did mention being a queen just now."

Morgana's smile faded and she looked away. "Take those back to him Gwen. Tell the Pendragon if he wants to apologize he will do it in person."

"Yes my Lady. I didn't want to dampen your mood."

"It's fine Gwen, don't worry about me."

Morgana was perusing dresses when she heard her friend come back into the room. "Gwen, I'm dining with the King tonight what should I wear?"

"I suppose that depends on what manner you want him to see you in."

Morgana spun at the intruder, her hand slaking down her thigh to find her hidden dagger. The blonde looked back at her with a sly smirk, her dark eyes never leaving hers. "Lady Morgana, I regret I did not have time to fully introduce myself last night."

Morgana stared at the blonde beauty. She was dressed in chainmail and the dirt on her face and neck was evident of her training. She felt drawn to the woman, something she had felt last night but couldn't place.

"Do I...Do I know you?" Morgana asked, cursing the pleading nature in her voice. "I feel like we have met before."

"We have not." Morgause came and grasped both her hands. "But I am glad we have met now. God your hands are cold Lady Morgana."

Morgana tried to pull away but Morgause held her back, insistent. "I am disappointed that the Prince's manservant was too drunk last night to remember what I told him. I overestimated him and should have put my trust in you. Servants have their uses, that one not so much. Clearly my message didn't get through to anyone of consequence."

"Me...what are you talking about?"

Morgause released her hands with a slight squeeze and began walking around the room. "You probably think I'm here to spy on you Morgana, to see what you're like, to see if I could find that vulnerable place in your heart that Lot would exploit." Morgause smirked at Morgana's horrified, then ferocious expression. "Morgana I'm joking. I have been subjected as well to that pig's advances."

"You would speak of your Lord in such a manner to a complete stranger?" Morgana asked haughtily, but amused and wary.

Morgause's tone was bitter. "He is not my Lord. I followed him because I had nowhere else. I have sacrificed much to stay alive, but I cannot stand by when he commits treachery against such a fair kingdom."

Morgana would hardly define Camelot as fair. "Treachery?" Morgana asked, thoughts of the council coming back to her. Could this be it? Definite proof? No. Uther would never accept the word of a warrior over a king. A woman at that.

"As I told the drunken servant last night, Lot continues to weave his webs. He doesn't have half the guile but his brother more than makes up for it. The entire scheme is to bring about the fall of Camelot."

"Tell me more, do you have proof?" Morgana began, fascinated in the woman before her.

"I cannot Morgana. I have but an inkling that is all. I also have know Lot and Cenred for several years now."

"How can I trust you?" Morgana said. "How do I know this is not a trap to put a wedge between myself and the King, to make Uther less suspecting? He would never believe my word, or yours."

Morgause smiled. "I'm not surprised Uther wouldn't trust my word, or yours. I am working on proof however. Before we march I will have any documents or witness you desire."

"Uther has no use for traitors. They turn again as soon as they are able." The Ward challenged with more venom then she had intended.

"Indeed. But I was never Lot's. I used him from the beginning, and now when I can do good, when I can finally end his reign, I will." Morgause had stopped pacing and moved towards Morgana. "King's like him are a blight upon this land. How little these 'great' men truly are. Besides my Lady, in you I see a kindred spirit. We are both women who strive against convention. I wouldn't be surprised if you had picked up a sword before. I would actually be surprised if you didn't know how to use one."

Morgana straightened her jaw. "Flattery doesn't work on me. If it did I would be fawning over Uther given the amount of jewels and dresses he bestows on me."

Morgause took on a serious expression. "No I did not think it would. It was not one of your father's faults, or your mothers." She looked at Morgana out of the corner of her eye.

She let the statement hang in the air as she began to march out of the room. "You knew my father? My mother?"

The blonde beauty gave a sad smile. "I did, and will tell you more in time."

"Morgause, please." Morgana moved towards her. Her pleading made her feel weak. "I need to know, you cannot leave after saying that."

"Consider what I have told you Morgana. I will tell you, soon, but in my own time. Respect my decision."

Morgana could only nod and swallow the lump in her throat as the blonde woman left the room. She couldn't push any further, not when this woman could be a potential ally.

That evening, after her meal with Uther, Lot and the Prince, Morgana slept fitfully. First she dreamed, of times past. Dressing her father in his armor, sharpening his weapons, learning how to fight with a sword. Looking at portraits of her mother in the secret alcove in Gorlois's office. She had no memory of her mother, had been told she had died during her birth. Playing with a teenage girl, long blonde hair, dark eyes. Uther returning, kneeling before her, pain in his eyes. Herself screaming, her nightmares coming true, running to her chambers, Gwen crying and comforting her.

A blood red sky, two dragons battled above amidst thunder. Dark rain poured onto the battlefield. The screams filled her ears and blood chocked her throat, smoke watered her eyes. Her left hand was useless as she rose from the ground, blocked a blow with her sword, and buried the hilt deep into the knight's chest. A knight of Camelot. She looked around, disturbed. All the knights around, on both sides were wearing Camelot colors.

She tried to turn towards the sky, observe the battle of the beasts above but her body wouldn't obey her commands. She looked down and was dressed in shimmering, otherworldly armor. Morgana could feel her hair dirty and tangled around her shoulders. She was covered in blood. A sharp blow, then pain in her side as she fell down. The battle continued off to her right but she couldn't move, and held onto her wound as she felt her blood feed the already soaked mud beneath her broken body. It seemed like hours, using only her ears as she listened to the sounds of battle, listen to the screams, the explosions of magic, the cries of the terrible winged serpents above.

She needed water. She wasn't dying from blood loss but from thirst. Her vision returned, her hand outstretched to the figure walking towards her. "Water. Please water. Help me. Help me Arthur!"

Her eyes moved up, and saw the Prince. No he was a king, but the bloody crown around his head was only a half of the whole, his armor rent, his eyes dark with fury, then melting to pity. He held a massive sword in his hands, covered with exquisite runes, dark with the gore and filth of the battlefield.

When he spoke he sounded older, his voice hoarse from shouting and shrouded in grief. "Why? Why Morgana?" His voice rose to a shout, tears began to form in his eyes. "You did all of this! Why did you kill him Morgana why?"

"Arthur!" She yelled, waking up as a vase exploded in her room. Candles flared around her and she struggled to put a smouldering out that began to light her drapes. No. No. It's happening again I can't control myself I'm an animal! Her vision swam in her mind. The battle, Arthur, her impending death. The dreams before. Her father, Uther, the blonde woman. Morgause? No it couldn't be. The door was shuddering slightly, it was only then that the blood left her ears. Walking over she opened the door.

Arthur.

"Prince Arthur?" She said, trying to control her heart, to control her eyes. Sweat was pouring down her face and neck, down her breasts. Realizing she was only wearing a slim nightgown she blushed, but Arthur's eyes were focused only on her face. "Arthur this is unseemly."

"I need to talk to you Morgana."

"About the flowers? That was a pathetic attempt, even for you Pendragon."

She saw Arthur's eyes grow dark, just like in the dream. Her heart wouldn't calm down. "Get out."

"Are all those candles lit?" His eyebrows rose as he looked over her head. His voice had a tone of humor.

"I like to read. I said out."

"No." No sense of humor now.

Morgana tried unsuccessfully to suppress her panic when Arthur forced himself into her room and closed the door. No one dared to come into her chambers without permission! Visions of him in her dream swam before her eyes. The blood. The sword. His voice.

"Arthur get out. Get out!" She screamed, panicked.

"Morgana," Arthur said calmly. "I'm not going to hurt you." He moved but she took a step back.

"I need to apologize to you."

Morgana's fear turned to anger. "By coming into my chambers at night? Leave now and I won't report these transgressions to Uther. Would he allow his son to sneak up to his beloved ward? Imagine the scandal of it all."

Arthur's face darkened at the mention of his father. "And if he didn't care? What then Morgana?" Her back was against her bed and Arthur was very close to her.

"You always say I can't stand up to him. Is it because you think I'm every bit the brute as he is?" He sneered.

Morgana's initial fear was replaced with hate. He wouldn't dare lay a finger on her.

Arthur simply stepped back, his eyes pained. "I would never hurt you Morgana."

He left and began walking out of her room. "My father forced me to pass judgment on three sorcerers today, to command their execution. He said it will make me see what it is like to be king. I now know what it is like to be a tyrant."

Morgana said nothing and Arthur pressed on. "I am sorry, for everything that has happened in the last few months, for today, my immature bickering." He looked at her, his expression agonizing. "I'm sorry for barging in here like this but I was rather indisposed after the trial. It's not always about you my Lady. Do you ever think for a second that others may need to be comforted as well? That others may need someone to talk to?"

He didn't need to mention who that someone was and his pride probably wouldn't let him. When Morgana recovered she found out that he was gone and she was alone in her room, panting slightly. It was too much, Morgause, her vision, Arthur. She was annoyed with Arthur. He was always a prat as Merlin called him. It was so hard for him to say he was sorry. But he had confided in her twice. Once with the druids, and today with the pressures his father was placing upon him.

But he would kill you in a second if he knew. Put you on a cross like the monster you are.

She visibly angered with defiance, walking around the room snuffing out candles. She had lost her father to Uther. She wouldn't lose a childhood friend too. She would help Arthur for his own sake despite how arrogant he was. She would help form him into the King he needed to be. She would take Uther's son away from him.