Kilgharrah was angry and bitter from being locked up for nearly 20 years so he found the only thing logical to do was to terrorise the city of Camelot. For the past three nights fire rained down on the streets of Camelot, houses burning and the sounds of screaming echoed through out the night as innocent people died from his wrath.

Arthur and his knight continuously tried to bring down the threat to Camelot, but they lost more and more men as each hour passed. More and more people entered the infirmary, their wounds seeming to get worse and worse. Kara hurried trying her best to help the injured with Gaius but they were quickly running out of supplies.

'I'm sorry you're having to do this.' Merlin spoke as he walked along the battlements with Arthur and his Knights.

'Why? You're not to blame.' Arthur spoke as he came to his spot in the battlements, he pulled out his crossbow looking out into the night.

Kilgharrah appeared from behind the clouds surrounding the moon, heading for the castle.

'Flame up!' Arthur yelled and the Knights lit their arrows with fire and took aim at the dragon.

'Stay strong! For tonight is not your night to die, I will make sure of that!' Arthur yelled encourage to to his knight as the dragon flew closer 'Hold firm! Hold! Hold! Now!' With the final yell, flaming arrows flew towards Kilgharrah yet it seems to make no impact as the dragon breathes fire at the battlements. All the Knights cower behind the stones for cover.

Back in the castle, Kara had just finished bandaging a burn on a man's arm when Gwen came up to her 'We've no clean water left.' Gwen spoke and Kara nodded passing her the bandages hurrying towards Gaius.

'Gaius, I'm going outside to get some water she told the man.

'It's too dangerous to go out there' Gaius warned and Kara sighed. She looked around, seeing a broken man with a bandage covering his face from the burns, a child crying out for his missing parents and a woman sobbing over her dead husband's body.

'I can't just sit here' she protested and without another word she quickly left the infirmary ignoring gaius's shout of her name. Kara ran through the burning square, keeping an eye on the sky. While they played a role in setting him free, Merlin and Kara weren't going to take the risk that Kilgharrah would spare them.

She reached the well and immediately began pulling up a bucket of water as fast as she could so much she didn't take notice of Arthur running into the burning square.

'Clear the square!' Arthur yelled to the remaining Knights while he kept an eye on the sky. He heard the sounds of the well and he turned to see Kara there 'kara?!' He yelled but she didn't hear him. The sound of a dragon roar had him looking up at the sky. Kilgharrah turned to the square, readying himself for an attack.

'Kara!' Arthur screamed seeing the dragon was heading towards her. Kara heard the shout of her name and sees Kilgharrah heading straight for her. She did the only logical thing she could think of at the time.

She ran.

She heard footsteps behind her and a moment later she felt herself being brought down to style ground as Kilgharrah flew over her and a now groaning Arthur. Kara's eyes widened when she the claw tears in Arthur's armour but before she could say anything he gripped her and dragged her up and back inside away from the square.

Merlin appeared and watched as they went before he saw Kilgharrah approaching again. His eyes hardened before burning gold. A spear rose from the ground and Merlin cast it at the dragon. It bounced off its scales and Kilgharrah roared 'Do not imagine that your petty magic can harm me!'

The dragon flew away leaving a distraught Merlin screaming 'why are you doing this?! Your killing innocent people!' The dragon ignored his shouts and fled, leaving the city to burn for another night.

Inside the infirmary, Arthur sat bare chested as Kara tended to his wounds with a small towel. 'You shouldn't have done that' she chastised.

He smiled 'I wasn't going to let anything happen to you.' Kara caught his eye and couldn't help the smile that appeared on her face. She reached to put the towel down only to have Arthur catch her hand and press it against his chest, later covering it with his own hand. The two smile at each other not noticing the smile Gaius wears as he looks at the two.

Merlin approaches the physician, only glance once at Arthur and Kara before his brought into a conversation

'Are you hurt?' Gaius asks in concern but Merlin shakes his head.

'There's nothing I can do. My magic is no good. It doesn't work.' He sighed distraught, the guilt he felt seeping through his voice.

'Dragons aren't monsters.' Gaius spoke, showing his wisdom in his words 'They're creatures of wonder and magic. You must realise that they're immune to your powers.' Gaius states before passing him some potions, pointing out the people who needed them most. Merlin nodded taking the potions and disappearing leaving Gaius in his thoughts.

The next day Kara stood beside Merlin as Arthur, uther, the knight and some advisors meet in the war room. Arthur stood before the King giving the status report after last night's attack

'The dead number 49 men, 27 women, a further 18 women and children are unaccounted for. Most of last night's fires are now out. The castle walls, in particular, the western section are near to collapse, I could go on.' Arthur reported

'Do we have any further idea on how the beast escaped?' Uther asked and both Kara and Merlin shared a guilty glance.

'I regret to say, Sire, we don't.' Sir Leon said stepping forward

'There must be some way to rid ourselves of this aberration. Gaius?' He asked turning to look at the physician for advice after his advisors proved no assistance.

'We need a dragonlord, Sire.' Gaius spoke after a moment's hesitation

'You know very well that's not an option.'

'Sire, what if...there was, indeed, one last dragonlord left.'

'That's not possible'

'But if there was.' Gaius continued and uther turned back and looked at him. The King walked forward in disbelief.

'What are you saying?' He questioned.

'It may just be rumour.' Gaius said

'Go on.' Uther called seeing gaius's hesitation.

'I'm not exactly sure, but I think his name is Balinor.'

'Balinor?' Uther stiffened, almost like he recognised the name.

'Where does he live?' Arthur asked from his chair.

'He was last seen in Cenred's kingdom in the border town of Enged but that was many years ago.' Gaius pointed out, replying to Arthur's question.

'If this man still exists, then it is our duty to find him.' Arthur said rubbing a hand down his should, ignoring the pain from last night's wounds.

'Our treaty with Cenred no longer holds. We are at war. If they discovered you beyond our border, they would kill you.' Uther pointed out

'I will go alone.' Arthur at stated but uther shook his head.

'No.'

'That way I will not be detected.' Arthur continued

'No, Arthur. It is too dangerous.'

'More dangerous than staying here?' Arthur pointed out, looking through the window. Kara couldn't help but agree with his words, right now anywhere would be safer then Camelot. 'I'll not stand by and watch my men die when I have the chance to save them.' Arthur stated

'I have given you my orders.' Uther spoke turning

'Do not make this a test of wills, Father.' Arthur sighed

'I'm not talking to you as a father, I'm talking to you as a king!' Uther yelled in response.

'I will ride immediately.' Arthur said after a moment's thought, passing his father who stared at him in disbelief at his blatant disregard for hit orders.

'My concern is for you.' Uther said as a last resort.

'Mine is for Camelot. I'll send word when I've found him.' Arthur replies before turning to Merlin 'Prepare the horses.' Arthur left and both Kara and Merlin bowed at the King before leaving though they took two different paths.

While Merlin headed for the stables, Kara followed after Arthur towards his chambers. She opened the door and Arthur looked up before looking back down at his bag.

'As much as I hate to admit, your father right this is a dangerous mission to go on' she stated.

'It's my duty to Camelot to protect them' he said grabbing some things out of a draw.

'This man might not even be alive Arthur! Gaius himself said it was merely a rumour' Kara stated walking forward.

'A rumour is enough for me to go on'

'Arthur I hate seeing the people suffer just as much as you do but if you were to die, Camelot would fall before the dragon even got the chance to attack again' she pointed out the truth. The people had out so much trust in their prince to keep them safe and if he were to die even on a mission to help them, it would destroy them more than a dragon attack ever could.

'I can't just sit here and watch my people die Kara' Arthur replied, and she could see the determination in his blue eyes.

Kara sighed 'at least let me come with you'

'No, I need you here and not just for my own peace of mind, too many people are injured and sick. Gwen and Gaius can't help all of then by themselves, they need you just as much as the people do'

'But-' 'please Kara do not fight me in this. Stay here' he said standing in front of her and she sighed before hugging him.

'Promise me you'll return alive' she whispered and she felt him nod.

'I promise' Arthur whispered, tightening his hold on the girl in his arms playing his chin atop her head, eyes closing in content.

Kara helped Merlin load up the saddle, Merlin telling her what Gaius had told him about the dragon lord him and Arthur were going to find. ,so he's your father?' Kara asked just to clarify and Merlin nodded, 'wow, are you going to tell him if you find him?'

'I don't know' Merlin shrugged.

'Well, it's up to you Merlin but if it was me I would try and spend as much time with my father as i could' she sighed, her thoughts drifting to the late father she could barely remember as he died when she was only a month old when he died.

Merlin nodded understanding, mounting his horse. Kara stepped back when she saw Gaius approaching. 'You got everything you need?' Gaius asked, Merlin nodded silently.

A moment later however 'I'm sorry. I didn't mean to...'

Gaius nodded understanding 'I know that.' And Merlin nodded

'Come on, Merlin.' Arthur said appearing from the castle, mounting his horse

'You're ready?' Merlin questioned surprised

'No thanks to you.' Arthur said before he winced in pain from his wound.

'You okay?' Merlin asked, mounting his own horse

'It's just a scratch.' Arthur shrugged and Kara looked at him, knowing it was much more than just a scratch. However the to still exchanged a small smile 'be carful' she mouthed and he nodded before trotting away.

'Merlin, whatever happens, you must not let Arthur know who this man is. Uther would view the son of a dragonlord with the deepest suspicion.' Gaius warned the boy.

'Good luck merlin' Kara said with a smile to her friend and he nodded before trotting off after Arthur.

'Do you think they'll find him?' Kara asked Gaius as the two horses disappeared from the square.

'Let us hope so' Gaius spoke and the two left the square to gather supplies for the night ahead.

Merlin and Arthur galloped through the woods before finally coming to a stop upon a hill overlooking a small village.

'This is it. One more step and we're in Cenred's kingdom. This Balinor better be worth it.' Arthur stated before urging his horse forward, Merlin followed silently.

By the time they reached the town, it was pouring rain and night had fallen. They enter a tavern sopping wet and everyone inside stops and stares at them. 'Greetings!' Arthur spoke awkwardly.

A man merely pulled out his knife and stuck into the table. Arthur nodded getting the message and both him and Merlin hurried to find a table

Their drinks were slammed onto the table, the liquid inside spilling over the table, by the innkeeper. 'We're looking for a man named Balinor. I'm willing to pay...' Arthur slaps a bag of coins in front of the innkeeper, 'handsomely.'

The innkeeper looks around before nodding leaning in 'never heard of him' he spits out grabbing the coins of the table and leaving.

'You think one of these men is Balinor?' Merlin questions

'I hope not.' Arthur says looking around

'So do I.'

Arthur and Merlin were getting ready for bed in a small room in the inn 'What is wrong with you today?' Arthur frowned at his manservant as he pulled off his shirt, revealing his bandages.

'What?' Merlin asked acting oblivious as he pulled the blanket closer around him.

'It pains me to admit it, but I do enjoy your surly retorts. In fact, it's probably your only redeemable feature.'

'Thanks.' Merlin thanks sarcastically, looking up.

'There are loads of servants who can serve. So few are capable of making a complete prat of themselves.' Arthur says laying down on his back before turning to look at Merlin with a smile expecting som witty response. There was nothing, 'What is it?'.

'Nothing.'

'It's something. Tell me.' Merlin stayed silent, avoiding Arthur's eye 'Alright, I know I'm a prince, so we can't be friends. But if I wasn't a prince...' Arthur sighed as Merlin turned around to face the other way.

'What?'

'Well, then...I think we'd probably get on.' Arthur said truthfully

'So?' Merlin shrugged

'So at least can you tell me?'

'Well, that's true. But you see, if you weren't a prince, I'd tell you to mind your own damn business.' Merlin said

'Merlin.' Arthur said but after a moment 'Are you missing Gaius.'

'Something like that.'

Arthur threw his pillow at Merlin 'Well, what is it, then?'

'I'll tell you.' After a moment Merlin continued 'I'm worried about everyone back in Camelot. I hope they're alright.'

'So do I.' Arthur sighed, thinking of his home.

Night had fallen over Camelot and Kilgharrah was attacking once more. Leon had been out in charge of the Knights being one of the longest serving Knights. The hid behind their shields holding out crossbows, the arrows alight with fire. 'Hold! Hold! Hold! Now!' Leon screamed and they let the arrows fly only for them to be engulfed with flames.

The knight brought back they shield and cowered behind the, as Kilgharrah released a breath of fire on them. Uther watched as the dragon terrorised his city for the fourth night, lost in his own thoughts.

Back with Arthur and Merlin, their door squeaked open as someone sneaked inside. The thief reaches for Arthur,s bag only to have Arthur grab his hand and thrown him back on Merlin's bed holding him at knifepoint. Merlin woke in confusion 'What's going on?' He asked, blinking tiredly.

'Do you know what the punishment is for theft?' Arthur threatened.

'No, please. I've got children to feed.' The man stuttered out.

'Tell me where to find Balinor.' Arthur said and watched as the man eyes flickered in confusion to recognition.

'Balinor?'

'What do you know of him?' Arthur questioned

'Nothing. I...' Arthur twisted the sword 'Do you value your life?'

'It's been many years since I saw him!' The thief stuttered.

'You know where he lives?'

'You must travel through the Forest of Merendra to the foot of Feorre Mountain. There you will find the cave where Balinor dwells.' He told him and Arthur pulled away 'But don't get your hopes up.'the thief continued sitting up.

'Why?' Merlin asked.

'He will not welcome you. Balinor hates everyone and everything. A cave's the best place for him.' The thief spat before bolting from the room.

Merlin and Arthur walking their horses through the woods the next door when Arthur stumbled a bit and Merlin was quick to notice. 'It's all right.' Arthur assured him but Merlin stopped.

'No, it's the wound. Let me have a look.' He says and Arthur sighs but allows him. Just as Merlin going to take a look at the wound a twig snaps

'Get down! Get down!' Merlin whispered pulling him down to hide behind a fallen tree. He peeks over the log watching as Cenred's men pass by.

'Arthur? ' Merlin whispers but there's no response so he shakes him shakes him 'Arthur?' He looks over to see the blonde had passed out. 'Brilliant' Merlin sighed before rinse up and carrying him to his horse, throwing him over the saddle. Merlin rides before stopping, getting off the horse.

He checks Arthur over before leaving running quickly through the forest coming by a river, he saw a cave up ahead and sighed in relief before hurrying towards it. 'Hello?!' Merlin yelled, his voice echoing through the cave. With no response he trudged inside, keeping an eye out for Balinor.

He comes across supplies and a burned out fire. Before he can do anything he's grabbed from behind. 'What do you want here, boy?'

'My friend, he's sick! He needs help!' Merlin yells and Balinor releases him.

'Show me, boy.' He says but Merlin keeps staring at the man that is his father. He was tall and broad with greying black hair that reached his shoulders, a beard and piercing blue eyes. 'What are you waiting for? Fetch him!' The man yelled and Merlin hurried out to fetch the horse and Arthur.

Balinor treated a still unconscious Arthur's wound 'Ahlúttre þá séocnes. Þurh- hæle bræd.' He mutters before standing and Merlin drops his eyes 'He needs rest.'

'Will he be alright?' Merlin asks

'By morning.' Balinor says moving last the boy

"Thank you.'

Merlin and Balinor eat dinner by a crackling fire in silence 'Looks good. How long have you lived here?' Merlin questions breaking it.

'A few winters.' Balinor shrugs

'Must be hard.'

'Why are you here?' Baltimore interrupts the small talk glancing up at Merlin who shrugs looking down

'Just travelling.' He says before continuing 'We're looking for someone. I was told, well...they said that he lived somewhere hereabouts. A man named Balinor.' There was no change in the man's face as eh continued to eat his dinner 'You never heard of him? He was a dragonlord.'

'He's passed on.' Baltimore said

'You knew him?' Merlin questioned but was stopped in a shout

'Who are you?!' He demanded

'I'm...Merlin.'

'And him?' He asked pointing at Arthur.

'He's my master.' Merlin says

'His name!'

'His name is Lancelot. He's a knight. You know, a nice one.' Merlin lies

'His name is Arthur Pendragon. He is Uther's son.' Balinor states

'Yes.'

'This is Cenred's kingdom. He's asking for trouble. What do you want from me?' Baltimore asks letting it slip.

'Are you Balinor?' The man simply looks back down at his dinner 'The Great Dragon is attacking Camelot.'

'His name is Kilgharrah.'

'Well, we can't stop him. Only you, a dragonlord, can.' Merlin kept pressing on.

'He doesn't act blindly.' Balinor remarked 'He kills for a reason. Vengeance. This is of Uther's making.'

'But he's killing innocent people. Women and children.' Merlin argued.

'Uther pursued me! He hunted me like an animal!' Balinor cried

'I know.'

'What do you know about anybody's life, boy?!' He yelled standing up 'Uther asked me to use my power to bring the last dragon to Camelot. He said he wanted to make peace with it, but he did not! He lied to me! He betrayed me! You want me to protect this man?"

'I want you to protect Camelot.' Merlin said

'He killed every one of my kind! I alone escaped!' Balinor yelled.

'Where did you go?' Merlin asked

'There's a place called Ealdor.' Balinor started

'Yes.' Merlin said quietly

'I had a life there. A woman. A good woman. Ealdor is beyond Uther's realm, but still he pursued me. Why would he not let me be? What was it that I had done that he wanted to destroy the life I built, abandon the woman I loved? He sent knights to kill me. I was forced to come here, to this!' He remarked looking around at the cave 'So, I understand how Kilgharrah feels. He's lost every one of his kind, every one of his kin. You want to know how that feels? Look around, boy. Let Uther die. Let Camelot fall.' He spoke turning around

'You want everyone in Camelot to die?' Merlin spat out in disbelief.

'Why should I care?'

'What if one of them was your son?' Merlin asked

'I don't have a son.' Balinor said and he confirmed Merlin's suspicions that he didn't know about him.

'And if I told you...' Merlin began but Arthur began muttering in his sleep.

'Merlin. Merlin.' Arthur coughed and balinor walked away leaving Merlin to put his hand to his forehead in exasperation.

The next morning Merlin sat at the mouth of the cave watching his father stare at the river in silence, 'I feel great! What the hell did you give me?' Arthur yelled walking out of the cave.

'It was all down to Balinor.' Merlin nodded at the man by the river.

'So we found him, then? Thank heaven for that.' Arthur said climbing over the rocks.

'That doesn't mean he's willing to help.' Merlin sighed

'What?'

'You won't persuade him.' Merlin stated

'Does he know what's at stake?' Arthur questioned and Merlin nodded, 'What kind of man is he?'

'I don't know. I thought he'd be something more.' Merlin said letting the disappointment leak through his voice as he watched him.

Back in Camelot Kara watched as the people hurried around the out out fires from the most recent attack. Kilgharrah was unpredictable and his attacks could happen at any time, leaving them more unprepared each time. Kara looked up hearing footsteps and saw Gaius approaching, 'Your worried them' the older man stated.

'Of course, they are in almost as much danger as we are here all for a man who may not even be there' Kara said looking over the castle again.

'You care for him don't you? Arthur?' Gaius said and she turned to him.

'Of course, everyone does' Kara shrugged but Gaius merely smiled.

'That's not what I meant and you know it. He cares for you too you know, you can see it in his eyes when he looks at you' Gaius said and Kara smiled a small smile but it faded quickly.

'Whether he loves me to not, we can never be' she sighs out the truth. She was merely a servant while he was a prince and uther would never allow it so she would continue to sit back and conceal her feelings to the best of her abilities and watch as Arthur becomes the greatest King the world will ever know without her.

'Oh...the world's a strange place, Kara. Never underestimate the power of love. I've seen it change many things.' He says and Kara smiles at the old man's words before it disappeared as she heard the familiar roar of the great dragon.

Arthur walked back to Merlin after talking to Balinor. 'What did he say?' Merlin questioned

'He'll change his mind.' Arthur said confidently leaning against the rock.

'He said that?' Merlin asked in surprise.

'Just...give him a moment.' Arthur sighed as Balinor walked up to the two of them. He stood in front of the for a while.

'Farewell, then.' He said moving past them not seeing Merlin's and Arthur smiles dropping

'That's your decision?' Arthur asked in disbelief.

'I will not help Uther.' Balinor shrugged before continuing his way into the cave.

'Then the people of Camelot are damned.' Arthur called out to the dragon lord.

'So be it.' Balinor shrugged again

'Have you no conscience?!' Arthur yelled

'You should ask that question of your father!' Balinor yelled back at him

'And you are no better than him!' Merlin added angrily, his eyes burning with disappointment as he looked upon his father. Balinor merely looked at him, moving closer to the cave,

'Don't waste your time, Merlin!' Arthur yelled loudly before walking away angrily.

'Gaius spoke of the nobility of dragonlords! Clearly he was wrong!' Merlin shouted before he decided to walk after Arthur.

'Gaius?' Balinor questioning voice stopped him.

'Yes'

'A good man.' Balinor says, eyes full of remembranceof the man who helped him escape uther's wrath.

'Yeah. I was hoping you'd be like him.' Merlin began

'Merlin!' Arthur yelled from the horses.

'I wanted to...' 'Merlin!' 'Well, there's no point.' Merlin shrugged glancing at the man before him before walking after Arthur.

'I always thought that silence would be a blessing with you, but I find it just as irritating.' Arthur stated after the two men set up camp, having left Balinor back in his cave. 'You're a riddle, Merlin.'

'A riddle?' Merlin questioned as he stoked the fire.

'Yes. But I've got to quite like you.'

'Yeah?'

'Now I realise you're not as big a fool as you look.'

'Yeah, I feel the same. Now that I realise you're not as arrogant as you sound.' Merlin smirked.

'You still think I'm arrogant?' Arthur asked with a roll of his eyes,

'No. More...supercilious.' Merlin said and Arthur looked at him in surprise

'That's a big word, Merlin. You sure you know what it means?' He teased.

'Condescending.'

'Very good.'

'Patronising.'

'It doesn't quite mean that.'

'No, these are other things you are.' Merlin said with a smile.

'Hang on!' Arthur laughs

'Over bearing.' Merlin continues but Arthur hears a twig snap and he picks up his sword from bedside him.

'Shh.'

'Very overbearing.' Merlin added as an after thought

'Merlin!' Arthur whispered yelled trying to get his man servant to shut up.

'But you wanted me to talk.' Merlin protested before he hears another twig snap. He grabs a sword and joins Arthur sneaking toward the bushes. The sounds tree ruffling from behind them caught their attention and they quickly turn around

'Careful, boy.' Balinor says as the two brandish their swords at him 'I thought you might need some help. This is dangerous country.' He says resting a hand on his swords hilt.

'And will you return to Camelot with us?' Arthur asks

'You are right, Merlin.' Balinor says locking eyes with the blue eyed boy 'There are some in Camelot who risked their lives for me. I owe a debt that must be repaid.'

'If you succeed in killing the dragon, you will not go unrewarded.' Arthur spoke but Balinor scoffed

'I seek no reward.'

'Great! Let's eat.' Arthur smiled moving past the father son duo to the food by the fire.

Merlin glanced over at Balinor as the two gathered firewood for the night ahead. 'This wood's too wet.' He stated as he picked up more sticks.

'Don't worry. I'm sure we'll find a way to make it light.' Balinor assured as he continued gathering the sticks.

'When you healed Arthur, I heard you mumble some words.' Merlin began slowly

'An ancient prayer.' Balinor waved it off

'I thought it might've been more than that.' Merlin shrugged but he kept an eye on Balinor.

'The Old Religion can teach us many things.' Balinor spoke after seeing the knowing look in Merlin's eyes

'The Old Religion. Is that something you were taught?' Merlin questioned

'It's not something you can learn. Either it's a part of you, or it isn't. My father knew that, and his father before him.' Balinor explained

'Were they also dragonlords?'

'We'll need some kindling.' Balinor said trying to change the subject

'You mentioned...' Merlin swallowed 'You spoke of Ealdor. You took refuge with a woman.'

'That was a long time ago.' Balinor said,s hugging it off obviously not wanting to talk about the past like it was a sore spot.

'I grew up there.'

'Ealdor?'

'Yes. I know the woman.'

'Hunith?' Balinor asked with wide eyes 'She's still alive?'

'Yes. She's my mother.'

'Then she married. That's good.' Balinor frowned, looking away.

'She never married.' Merlin stated and Balinor looked at him 'I'm your son.'

Balinor stared at him wide eyed 'I don't know what it is to have a son.'

'Or I a father.' Merlin countered. The father and son pair look up when they hear a twig snap to see Arthur walking close by. Merlin'a head snaps back to Balinor 'You must not tell Arthur.' He warns.

Balinor nods handing him his collection of firewood and Merlin's see his father smile for the first time since he met him.

Night fell quickly and while Arthur slept Balinor and Merlin sat opposite each other the fire between them. Balinor whittles some wood to pass the time. 'Why did you never return?' Merlin questioned, striking up a conversation

'I thought her life would be better without me.' Balinor sighed.

'Why?' Merlin wondered

'Uther wanted me dead.' Balinor shrugged 'If he'd found me, he'd have killed me, and your mother. I wanted her to be safe.'

'We could've come with you.' Merlin told him.

'What kind of life would you have had here?'

'We'd have been...' Merlin smiled 'happy. When we've finished in Camelot, I will take you to Ealdor.' He told him.

'She won't recognise me.' Balinor sighed before he eyed Merlin 'I see her in you.'

'Yeah?' Merlin smiled

'You have her kindness.' Balinor said before blowing on his carving before continuing to shape it.

'How did you become a dragonlord?' Merlin asked after a few moments.

'You don't choose to become a dragonlord. It's not something you're taught. It's a sacred gift. For thousands of years it's been handed down from father to son. And that is what you must now become, Merlin.'

'I would like that.' Merlin smiled.

'And like all dragonlords, you won't know for sure that you have that power until you face your first dragon. You should get some sleep. We've a big day ahead of us.' Balmier said standing and walking away

'Goodnight, Son.' He called out after a moment and a large grin crossed Merlin face.

'Sleep well, Father.'

Morning broke and Merlin blinked his eyes open as the sun hit him. He caught sight of a wooden mini dragon, the one his father had been working on the night before. A smile broke out on his face but just as he sat up a hand covered his mouth from behind.

'Cenred's men' Arthur whispered before drawing his sword just as the men attacked. Merlin jumped up and grabbed his sword, tossing it to his father who took on a knight. Merlin pulled out a spare sword and began fighting another guard.

As the fight progressed as Merlin wasn't completely focused, too worried about his father, he was quickly disarmed by the guard. His eyes widened when he came to the realisation, panicking as the guard drew closer.

'NO!' Balinor cried and jumped in front of his so only to be run through by the sword. Merlin caught his father falling back.

'AHHHH!' Merlin screamed, his eyes burning a fierce gold sending the guard who had just stabbed his father away from them. Merlin turned his attention back to his father lowering him to the ground.

'Ah, I see you have your father's talent.' Balinor chuckled weakly 'Merlin...'

'Please, no. Please. I can save you.' Merlin begged, feeling tears well up in his eyes. He couldn't lose his father, not like this, not when he just met him.

'Listen to me. When you face the dragon, remember: be strong. A dragon's heart is on its right side, not its left.' Balinor told his through shaky breaths.

'I can't do it alone.' Merlin refused

'Listen to me! Oh, my son. I've seen enough in you to know that you will make me proud.' Balinor whispered before his eyes grew distant. Merlin watched through blurred vision as his father took his last breath.

'No. Father.' Merlin sobbed 'No.' He whispered holding him closer feeling the hot tears running down his cheeks. Arthur appeared from behind them, eyes widening at the sight before him

He threw his sword down into the ground in frustration crying out 'NO!'. Merlin sat back started at his voice and quickly stood wiping his face getting rid of his tears, facing Arthur with red rimmed eyes.

'Camelot is doomed.' Arthur spoke brokenly after seeing his kingdom's last hope die.

Kara watched from a window in Camelot, waiting for athur's and Merlin's return. They had been gone for a few days now and Camelot was becoming more and more desperate as the great dragons attacks were relentless. She glanced up at the sound of horse shoes clattering against the stones, she glanced up and saw Merlin and Arthur riding into the square.

The small sense of relief she felt disappeared when she saw no extra rider. Where was balinor? She wondered as she hurried down the stairs and into the war room, where the council, uther and gaius already were, she expected that would be the first place Arthur and Merlin went. Her suspicions were proved right when she entered the room.

'I'm sorry, Father. I failed you. The last dragonlord is dead.' She heard Arthur state and her eyes immediately looked at Merlin, who was trying not to cry, she quickly moved towards him and grasped his hand in hers, squeezing it in comfort. The warlock squeezed her hand back tightly in gratitude.

'There are many years where I might've wished for that news.' Uther sighed from his spot.

'All is not lost, Father.' Arthur stated straightening up 'We have to fight the monster ourselves. So let us ride out and fight on our own terms: on open ground, on horseback, where we can manoeuvre better.'

'There is no point.'

'So what? We stand here, watch Camelot fall.' Arthur frowned and uther sat in thought for a moment before nodding.

'You have my blessing.'

Arthur nodded before looking at the Knights in the room 'I need a dozen knights! Those who do not wish to fight can do so without stain on their character. For those brave enough to volunteer should know, the chances of returning are slim.'

The Knights all glance at each other in silence no one ,ovine a muscle. Arun continued to look at all of them. Finally sir Leon stepped forward, resting in front of Arthur who nodded at him proudly.

After Leon stepped forward, one by one twelve other knight stepped forward forming a circle around Arthur. The minute they did Kara lead Merlin out of the room.

'What happened?' she asked softly, seeing the tears welling up in Merlin's eyes.

'I couldn't save him he...he died saving me.' Merlin stuttered out and Kara immediately enveloped him into a hug, feeling him break down in her arms.

'I'm so sorry merlin' she whispered holding her friend tighter. Merlin pulled away after a few minutes and gave her a weak smile before he walked down the hallways pulling out a wooden dragon carving as he did.

As soon as Merlin disappeared Kara raced through the hallway banging on Arthur's chamber door. She didn't even wait for him to tell her to come in before barging inside.

'Let me come with you' she immediately demanded.

'No, it's too dangerous' Arthur protested.

'So it's too dangerous for me and not for you!' She yelled 'I'm just as skilled as your Knights hell I could probably take them all in a fight. I deserve the right to protect Camelot just as much as anyone. Give me on good reason why I can't go!'

'Because I can't lose you!' Arthur yelled before sighing rubbing a hand over his face, sitting down on the edge of his bed. Kara moved forward and kneeled down in front of him.

'Arthur I can't lose you either. I'd rather die by your side then live without you' she spoke and Arthur sighed.

'Kara please, stay here. I need to know you'll be safe' he asked, gripping her hands in his.

Kara sighed, squeezing his hands 'fine but this is the last time I stay behind' she said with a smile making Arthur chuckle.

'Deal' he said and she smiled before the pair leaned in their lips meeting. This was a slower and softer kiss compared to the others but filled with just as much passion. It was a promise, a promise that Arthur would return to her.

'Oops, sorry!' The two pulled apart to see merlin standing in the doorway awkwardly. Kara immediately stood, feeling best rise to her cheeks from having being caught.

She cleared her throat, 'good luck and be careful' she said to both of the men who nodded and with that she left.

'Don't say a word, Arthur threatened Merlin who merely grinned.

'About what?' He asked, before helping Arthur into his armour. The atmosphere quickly becoming somber before Arthur spoke up.

'Well, look on the bright side, Merlin. Chances are you're not going to have to clean this again.'

'You must be careful today. Do not force the battle.' Merlin said seriously.

'Yes, Sire!' Arthur mocked and merlin rolled his eyes.

'I'm serious.'

'I can hear that.'

'Let matters take their course.'

'Merlin, if I die, please...' Arthur trailed off and Merlin frowned

'What?'

Arthur turned around to face him 'The dragonlord today...I saw you. One thing I tell all my young knights: no man is worth your tears.' Arthur said gripping Merlin's shoulder.

'Yeah. You're certainly not.' Merlin jokes with a smile but as Arthur grabs his sword Merlin picks up one too.

'What are you doing?' Arthur asked in confusion

'I'm coming with you.' Merlin stated

'Merlin, the chances are I'm going to die.'

'Yeah. Yeah, you probably would if I wasn't there.' Merlin smiled.

'Right' Arthur scoffs.

'Do you know how many times I've had to save your royal backside?'

'Well at least you got your sense of humour back.' Arthur swipes Merlin's sword out of the way and heads toward the door. Merlin follows and Arthur stops looking at him.

'Are you really going to face this dragon with me?' He asked

'I'm not going to sit here and watch. I know it's hard for you to understand how I feel, but' Arthur looked at him wondering where he was going but Merlin joked '...well, I care a hell of a lot about that armour, I'm not going to let you mess it up.'

Arthur chuckles along with Merlin. Arthur smiled going his man servant a friendly hit on the shoulder before leaving the room, Merlin quickly follows.

Kara watches with Gaius from the battlements as the party ride out of Camelot, their red clocks flowing behind them. 'They'll be back' Kara reassured herself and gaius, who remained quiet as he watched not wanting to dash the girl's hope.

By night fall the dragon slayer party arrived in a small clearing, gathered together on their horses as they waited for the dragon to appear. The sounds of wings flapping caught their attention and they glanced up too Kilgharrah flying overhead.

'Hold firm.' Arthur orders as the dragon catches sight of them, putting his helmet over his head. The horses began freaking out as the dragon got closer but every knight was able to restrain them.

'Hold! Hold! Hold! Now!' He shouts and the horses quickly disperse asn Kilgharrah lands where they were previously. They begin circling the magical beast.

Soon enough Kilgharrah knocks Merlin, Arthur and some other knights off of their horses with his tail. Only Merlin and Arthur get up, they watch in horror as the dragon roasts the remaining Knights.

'No.' Merlin whispers before shouting 'Stop!'

Kilgharrah turns toward Merlin and Arthur, who quickly picks up a spear. Kilgharrah seems contemplates Arthur for a moment before he sends roaring flames towards him. Arthur manages to roll out of the way and stabs Kilgharrah in the side. Kilgharrah roars in fury and pain before knocking Arthur out with a clawed hand. Merlin gets up when he sees the prince fall.

As he stands he hears balinor's voice in his head 'Your the last dragonlord now. You alone carry the ancient gift. Deep within yourself, you must find the voice that you and Kilgharrah share, for your soul and his are brothers. When you speak to him as kin, he must obey your will.'

Merlin opens his mouth and almost a dragon roar erupts before he speaks in the dragon tongue 'Dracan!' Kilgharrahs eyes widen in shock as Merlin continues 'Nán dyd ǽlc áciere miss! Eftsíðas eom ála cræt! Géate' stǽr ábære gárrǽs! Géate cyre. Mé tácen átende diegollice. Car grise áþes.' Kilgharrah bows down to Merlin with reluctance but he had now choice but to obey the dragon lord.

Merlin looks down and pick up the spear laying at his feet. 'I am the last of my kind, Merlin. Whatever wrongs I have done, do not make me responsible for the death of my noble breed.' Kilgharrah speaks.

Merlin in reply thrusts the spear into the air and Kilgharrah winces, 'though he looks back at the young warlock in shock when he feels no pain. Merlin stares up at him as tears run down his cheek he screams at the dragon 'Go! Leave! If you ever attack Camelot again, I will kill you!'

Kilgharrah bows and Merlin drops the spear 'I have shown you mercy! Now you must do the same to others!' He shouts up to him

'Young warlock, what you have shown is what you will be. I will not forget your clemency. I'm sure our paths will cross again.' Kilgharrah speaks before he spreads his wings and disappears into the night. Merlin sighs in relief when he hears Arthur groan.

'What happened?' Arthur asks confused looking up at Merlin.

'You dealt him a mortal blow.' Merlin spoke

'He's gone?' Arthur asks in disbelief,

'Yeah.' Merlin nods with a smile 'You did it.'

A smile breaks across Arthur's face as he laughs 'Ha! Ha! Ha!' Merlin smiles as Arthur continues to laugh in relief.

'You did it.'

Arthur and Merlin head for the drawbridge. Uther sees them from his window, sighs in relief and leaves. Arthur and Merlin enter the square the guards looking at them in disbelief knowing they had killed the dragon. Kara bolts last all of them not caring a single bit as she flings herself at Arthur who quickly wraps her up in his arms.

'Never ever scare me like that again' she warns and Arthur chuckles.

'I'll try' Arthur says and they pull back 'I should go see my father, Arthur states and Kara nods understandingly watching him as he goes.

'Merlin you did it!' She cried the minute Arthur was out of sight hugging the boy close.

'Yeah I suppose I did' Merlin said still in shock and disbelief of the events but Gaius and Kara smiled proudly at the young warlock.

'Come on then, let's celebrate' Kara cheers linking arms with the two men, leading them back to the castle. All three with giant grins plastered on their faces.

A/N: And we've reached the end of season 2, hope you all enjoyed that extra long chapter. There's still a lot more to come though so be prepared for season 3. The next chapter will be up as soon as I finish writing it. Thank you all for reading my story and remember reviews and favourites are extremely appreciated and literally give me the motivation to write faster. Love you all, bye! xx