(no subject)
FANDOM: MERLIN
Title: The Beginning in the End (2/2)
Word Count: 10, 458 (this part), 16,688 over all (yikes!)
Rating: PG-13
Warning: Character death, bad writing...
SPOILERS this is my take on what the spoilers for the end of season 3 might mean, so there are definite POTENTIAL SPOILERS within. However, it is all pure speculation on my part, so probably safe to read if you're mostly unspoiled. But you have been warned.
Summary: This has been nagging at me since reading/looking at the spoilers/spoiler pics about the end of season 3 that have been floating around the last few weeks. Whatever happens is sure to be epic, but this is my take on what I think would be an amazing end to the season. Morgana, Morgause and Cenred take over Camelot, leaving Arthur, Merlin, Gwen and the knights to take it back. But first they have to save Uther and Gaius.
Okay so I lied when I said this would be shorter than the first half - clearly it isn't! And now I'm late getting ready for a party but I HAD to get it done! I won't be able to watch Merlin tonight - enjoy it, y'all!!
Thanks for reviews on the first part - let me know what you think!
THE BEGINNING IN THE END (2b/2)
The dragon swooped down over the castle, and Arthur clung on to the spike on the dragon’s back, hoping that no one could see him too clearly because he was sure he didn’t look too dignified. It was fine when the dragon was just flying straight, but when he dived and swooped and turned...
The sword that Arthur had retrieved from the lake was sheathed at his side, and Arthur was trying not to think about it too hard. There was something weird about it - Arthur had felt it the moment he’d picked it up. It had power. Also, it had been lying the bottom of a lake amongst the mud and the reeds for however long, and yet when he’d picked it up it was spotless - almost as though it had just been polished.
And there was something about it that Merlin wasn’t telling him. How had he known about the sword? Why did he seem so... almost chummy with the dragon?
Arthur shook his head and concentrated on what was happening - they had flown over the lower town, and Gwen and the knights must have seen the dragon. That meant that, if all was going according to plan, they and the knights would be attacking the castle any moment now. Arthur’s first objective was to destroy that staff - according to Gaius, it was under guard in the throne room.
“Land in the courtyard!” Arthur heard Merlin yell to the dragon.
They swooped again, and the dragon landed with a clatter and a thump of his great tail on the stone staircase. Four of Cenred’s men were in the courtyard when the dragon landed - he sent a jet of flame at them when he landed, and they screamed and ran, their clothes and hair aflame.
Merlin and Arthur slid down opposite sides of the dragon’s neck and dropped to the floor - Arthur immediately unsheathed the sword and held it ready. From here they could hear shouts and the clang of metal on metal, and a moment later the warning bell sounded - the attack had started. Hopefully it would draw most of Cenred’s men out of the castle to the walls, giving them a clear run to the throne room.
“Fly around the castle a bit to distract Cenred’s men, but be careful!” Merlin yelled to the dragon.
The dragon nodded and sprang back into the air. Merlin looked at Arthur.
“Throne room,” they said simultaneously, before running across the courtyard and darting into the castle through one of the servants’ entrances. Arthur let Merlin lead the way through the rough-hewn tunnels - he knew them better than he did, and when they burst out of them at the other end they were on the main corridor of the castle, just around the corner from the throne room.
Morgause stood at the end of the hall.
Her eyes flashed at the sight of them and raised her hand towards them - a few words a bolt of bright blue light fired towards them - Merlin and Arthur dove into an alcove and the spell just missed them.
“Go in through the back door,” Merlin whispered to Arthur. “You can stay close to the wall from here.”
“What about Morgause?”
“I’ll draw her fire,” said Merlin.
Arthur shook his head. “Merlin -”
Merlin grinned. “Don’t worry, I’m good at ducking.” And without waiting for an answer, he jumped out of the alcove and raced up the hall towards Morgause.
Arthur jumped out of the alcove and, staying low, he raced in the other direction, keeping close to the wall, to the back-door entrance of the throne room. He could hear Morgause chanting something behind him and tried not to think about what she was about to try to do to Merlin - he needed to get to that staff.
Arthur found the door and tumbled through it, landing on one knee on the dais behind the throne. He pushed himself up using the sword he still held in his right hand, and looked around. The throne room appeared to be empty - and there, directly in front of him, standing up of its own accord and emitting a magical yellow glow, was the staff of Brandorin.
Before Arthur could take so much a step towards it, a voice rang out around the empty room.
“So like you, Arthur Pendragon, to come rushing in head-first.”
Arthur froze and turned to where the voice had come from - the throne. A moment later Cenred’s face appeared around the back of it, smirking at Arthur from where he was lounging on it. Arthur’s insides twisted with rage.
“And so like you, to let your men do the fighting for you while you take what isn’t yours,” he retorted, taking a step towards him. “Get out of my throne, Cenred.”
Cenred’s smirk widened and he stood up. “Oh, your throne is it?” He said airily. “Then that must mean your father is dead.” He bowed mockingly, in an over-exaggerated way. “Long live the king.”
Arthur sneered. “You will pay for what you have done today,” he said.
Cenred laughed. “Oh, I’ve waited for this moment a long time, Arthur,” he said. “Please, do your worst.”
Arthur nodded. “Very well.” He raised the sword above his head, arced it round his body and sliced it with all his might into the side of the staff.
The sword was sharp and the staff was just wood, but it didn’t feel like cutting through a branch - Arthur felt a shock that radiated through the sword and right up his arms, and the staff shattered into five separate pieces. The pieces fell to the floor, still glowing, but within seconds they had dimmed and all that was left of the staff were five pieces of splintered wood.
Cenred let out an almighty cry and brought his sword down towards Arthur’s head - Arthur got his sword up just in time, but he hadn’t been prepared for the attack and it forced him down onto one knee. Moving quickly, he let himself fall back properly and swiped his leg round, knocking Cenred’s feet from under him. He thrust his sword down at Cenred’s chest but he rolled away, and the two of them struggled back to their feet.
Their swords clashed repeatedly as they danced around, looking for an opening. Cenred looked enraged that Arthur had been able to break the staff - it was obvious he had been told it was invincible. Arthur used the rage, dancing away from him, teasing him, making him take chances to try to reach him. He swiped at Arthur’s chest, causing Arthur to jump back and almost land on one of the pieces of the broken staff. Arthur took another step back and kicked the piece of wood up at Cenred’s face - he automatically raised his sword arm to protect his eyes, and Arthur jabbed him in the wrist - he dropped the sword, and Arthur caught it in his left hand. Using his momentum from the catch he drew back Cenred’s sword and sliced his side open with his own sword. Then Arthur followed through and thrust his own sword under Cenred’s ribs and into his heart.
Cenred gasped one last breath and slumped forward onto Arthur’s shoulder. Arthur shoved his body back and he dropped to the floor. Arthur crouched down to wipe the blood off his sword.
“Cenred why has the enchantment -”
Arthur stood up again and stared over the top of his father’s throne. There by the double doors at the other end of the throne room, his father’s crown resting on top of her head, stood Morgana.
XXX
Merlin had run straight down the hallway towards Morgause, hoping to get to here before she had time to aim another spell at him - mostly just hoping to distract her from Arthur as he made his way into the throne room. She sent another bolt of blue energy at him, but he flattened himself against the wall again.
“You’re behind this - you and Arthur!” She yelled as he peered round at her. She looked half-crazed.
“Maybe you should have killed me when you had the chance!” Merlin retorted.
Morgause gave a shriek of rage and held her hands stiff at her sides, starting to chant under her breath. Merlin didn’t have to be a warlock to recognise the beginnings of a powerful spell, and so he ran for it. He darted across the corridor and through an archway, up a short flight of steps and burst out onto the battlements. From here he could see the courtyard and, past that, the castle wall - they were too far away to see who it was, but two of the knights, several of Camelot’s guards and about a dozen ordinary people were fighting their way along the wall, taking down half a dozen of Cenred’s men. Arthur must have broken the staff.
“There is something about you, Merlin,” Morgause said coldly, emerging from the staircase. “You always seem to turn up where you’re not wanted.”
“Annoying, isn’t it?” Said Merlin flippantly.
“Extremely,” said Morgause. “And it’s time I dealt with you.”
She raised her hand but suddenly there was an almighty roar, and the dragon rose up in front of the battlements. The dragon sent a jet of flame straight at Morgause - she threw up her hand and the flames dispersed harmlessly around her. As soon as the flames stopped she threw up her other hand and sent a bolt of bright red energy at the dragon. Merlin threw up his hand and the bolt hit against a golden shield, dissipating against it.
Morgause turned her head to look at Merlin, shock written all over her face, and Merlin raised his chin defiantly.
“Get out of here!” He called to the dragon. “GO!”
The dragon beat his wings and rose up, high into the air. Merlin kept his eyes on Morgause, and dropped the shield he’d made.
“Well well well,” said Morgause, starting to smile. “This certainly explains a great deal.”
Merlin glared at her. “You’re finished,” he said. “Arthur’s broken the staff. Cenred’s men are being overrun. Arthur’s the king of Camelot, and there’s nothing you can do about it.”
Morgause sneered. “And I wonder, what would King Arthur say if he knew that his faithful servant Merlin was actually a sorcerer?”
“It doesn’t matter.”
“You think he’ll accept you, Merlin?” Morgause taunted. “You think he’ll let you live in peace? Life father like son, Merlin -”
“I don’t care what you say!” Merlin yelled. “I don’t care if Arthur hates me because I have magic - he’s still going to be a greater king than you or Morgana could ever hope to be! You say you hate Uther for what he did - you’re no better than him! In fact you’re worse!”
Morgause sneered again and suddenly flung a bolt of red light at Merlin - he flung up a hand and blocked it, and a moment later his other hand caused another bolt to hit the wall of the battlements, crumbling a chunk of stone.
“Impressive,” said Morgause drily. “But I’ve had enough of you, Merlin.”
She started to chant again, like she had in the corridor, and this time Merlin stood his ground, watching as sparks flew from her fingers, connecting her hands together with red lightning. Then, her eyes flashing, she threw the sparks at Merlin. Merlin flung out both hands and the spark hit a golden wall, but he could feel them hitting it, jabbing at him, pushing at him - Merlin had to throw all his weight into the wall, closed his eyes to concentrate on keeping it whole. He leant back, bent his elbows and, with a cry, pushed the wall away from him. The wall shuddered and the sparks bounced off it, rebounding on Morgause too quickly for her to try to put up a barrier or stop the curse. She screamed as the sparks hit her and she fell to her knees, trembling violently.
She raised her head to look at Merlin, who stood still on the other side of the battlements, glaring at her. She gasped. “You may have defeated me, boy... but my sister is far more powerful than you could imagine... more powerful than even she knows...”
As if on cue, there was a scream from below them, in the castle - a scream that was unmistakably Morgana’s. Morgause let out a cry of anguish and struggled to her feet. She cast a hateful look at Merlin and hurried down the staircase into the castle. Merlin ran after her.
XXX
Arthur stood stock-still at the sight of Morgana. She was wearing one of her grander dresses, a white and silver one, her black curls half pinned back, and diamonds glittering at her throat. A scabbard was tied around her waist and a sword with a jewelled hilt was sheathed at her hip. She certainly looked the part of a Queen. But as she took in the sight before her and turned her hate-filled eyes to look at Arthur, he saw nothing of the woman he’d loved.
Morgana smiled - a cruel, dark smile. “Brother dearest,” she said. “How nice to see you.”
Arthur placed a hand on the back of the throne and stepped round it to face her properly. “You are not my sister,” he said.
Morgana’s smile widened. “In denial, Arthur?” She asked. “I heard it from our father’s own lips.”
“I know,” said Arthur. “Yes, we had the same father. But my sister was a kind, caring woman, who knew her own mind and only ever wanted to help people. You are not her.”
Morgana laughed - the laugh was high, and rang around the empty room. “Oh Arthur, how like our father you are,” she said. “He didn’t believe it either. But this is me, Arthur - this has always been me.”
Arthur jumped off the dais and took a few steps towards her. “The Morgana I knew would never have allowed Cenred to take over Camelot,” he said. “She would never have treated her people with such callousness.”
“A means to an end, Arthur,” said Morgana. “To make a change, sacrifices have to be made.”
Arthur shook his head. “You’ve gone mad.”
Morgana smiled again. “And you have come to deal with me, have you?” She said.
“I have come to take back what is rightfully mine,” Arthur said.
Morgana’s smile disappeared. “Not anymore.” Her sword was unsheathed and in her hand in a moment - Morgana had always been fast. But so was he.
They leapt forward at the same time and their swords clashed in the middle of the throne room. They were well-matched - Arthur knew all of Morgana’s tricks but the problem was she knew his as well.
“It’s over, Morgana,” Arthur said as he parried a blow. “Even if you kill me, the knights will never swear allegiance to you.”
“What makes you think I need the knights?” Morgana demanded.
“You’ll need someone to keep order for you - the people won’t stand for a dictator.”
Morgana laughed. “Are you blind, Arthur?” She exclaimed. “What do you think Uther was?”
“He was a great king!” Arthur retorted. “He made mistakes, but he respected the people.”
Morgana just laughed again but stumbled back a bit from a particularly heavy blow.
“And he loved you - unconditionally,” Arthur said, landing another blow.
“He lied to me!” Morgana screamed.
“To protect you!” Arthur yelled back. “To protect your mother! And your father... the man you thought was your father. I wonder what he would say if he could see you now.”
Morgana leapt at Arthur but he was ready for it - he span around and slashed with his sword - he caught Morgana’s arm, gouging a deep cut in her forearm and making her scream and drop her sword. Arthur pressed the advantage - he knocked Morgana’s legs from under her and dropped down after her, pinning her under his knee with his sword to her throat. The crown slipped off Morgana’s head and rolled away before dropping to the floor with a clunk.
There was a silence as they stared at each other, breathing heavily.
“Go on then,” Morgana said.
Arthur shook his head. “I don’t want to kill you, Morgana,” he said.
Morgana sneered. “No, far too noble to kill a woman, aren’t you?” She said.
“No - I don’t want to kill you, Morgana, because you’re my sister,” he said. “You always have been.”
Morgana swallowed, but before she could say anything they heard footsteps and Arthur heard Merlin yell his name. Arthur looked up and saw Morgause in the doorway - he raised his sword in reflex, and the bolt of blue light she sent at him hit the blade. The force of it knocked Arthur back several feet, and the sword fell out of his hand and skidded across the floor.
Morgause ran into the throne room and straight to Morgana - Arthur noticed that she was breathing heavily, and doubled over as though in pain. She wrapped her arms around Morgana and started to chant.
Arthur recognised the words and struggled to sit up. “Wait - no!”
But it was too late; her eyes flashed gold and there was a high wind, whipping around her and Morgana. A moment later, they were both gone.
Arthur stared at the spot where they’d been and then punched the floor. “Damnit!” He yelled. He looked up at Merlin, who had just appeared in the doorway. “They’re gone,” he said.
Merlin nodded. “But Morgause was injured - badly,” he said. “A killing curse rebounded onto her - she’ll probably be dead within minutes.”
“Are you sure?” Arthur asked, getting to his feet. Merlin nodded.
“Well... good.” He walked over to where the sword was lying on the floor - the magic it had absorbed didn’t seem to have harmed it at all.
“What happed with Morgana?” Merlin asked.
Arthur sheathed the sword and sighed. “I couldn’t kill her,” he admitted. “I just couldn’t do it.”
Merlin nodded, not seeming too surprised. “Well, she doesn’t have Morgause anymore, or Cenred,” he said. “Maybe... maybe she’ll come to her senses.”
“Do you really think that will happen?” Asked Arthur.
Merlin shrugged, but Arthur could tell he didn’t think so. Arthur sighed again.
There were footsteps in the corridor outside and both Merlin and Arthur unsheathed their swords, facing the dooway, but a moment later Sir Dennis and Sir Olsen ran in, with three guards on their heels. They all looked extremely relieved to see Arthur, who sheathed his sword and strode forward.
“Report?”
“It’s over, Sire,” said Sir Dennis. “Practically the entire lower town rose up, and once the enchantment was broken and the guards were on our side as well, Cenred’s men didn’t stand a chance.”
“Most of them are dead, but Sir Leon ordered that three of be kept alive - they’re tied up on the training ground,” said Sir Olsen.
Arthur nodded. “Good,” he said. “Get them to the dungeons. We’re going to need to set up a field hospital for the wounded - get Gaius up here. Open up all the gates of the castle but keep guards on them, just in case we’ve missed any of Cenred’s men and they try to escape. And send someone to get rid of Cenred’s body.”
“Yes, Sire,” said all five of the men. They bowed to Arthur and hurried off.
Arthur turned back to Merlin and saw that he had picked up the crown from where it had fallen on the ground. He held it out to Arthur, and Arthur took it, feeling the cold weight of it. He glanced at Merlin before walking over to the throne and placing the crown on the seat. There it would remain until he was officially crowned.
“What now?” Merlin asked.
Arthur turned back round and sighed. “Well, I could murder a hot bath - but for now I’ll make do with a clean shirt.”
XXX
It really was all over. By the time Arthur had taken off his armour and changed his clothes, the castle was already bustling with activity again. Every single person he passed bowed or curtseyed to him, many with tears in their eyes, and Arthur made sure to stop and thank each of them for their loyalty. He made his way through the castle and down into the courtyard, Merlin on his heels, and stopped at the top of the stone steps leading down into it.
Six horseriders rode into the courtyard from the opposite corner - five of them were knights, their armour gleaming and their scarlet cloaks flapping in the breeze - but Arthur stared at the lead rider. It was Gwen.
She was still in her plain travelling clothes, her hair was escaping from where she’d pinned it up, and there was not a single jewel or rich thing about her person. But to Arthur, he’d never seen anyone who looked more regal.
Arthur shook his head and jogged down the steps. He strode across the courtyard as Gwen pulled up her horse and the five knights - Gwaine, Lancelot, Elyan, Percival and Leon - stopped behind her. Arthur knew how to recognise power, and he wondered if Gwen realised the sway she held over the five men behind her. He doubted it.
Arthur stopped next to Gwen’s horse and held out his hands to help her down. She swung one leg over and he lifted her down, smiling at her. He opened his mouth to thank her - for helping him, for being safe - but before he could speak she reached up to placed her hand on her neck, pulled him down and kissed him.
Arthur’s hand tightened on Gwen’s arms and he kissed her back - his mind went blissfully blank and it wasn’t until she pulled away that Arthur realised what she’d just done. Gwen had just kissed him in public, in front of everybody. Not only the five knights behind her, but all the people in the courtyard. But Gwen was smiling at him when he opened his eyes, and she immediately wrapped her arms around her neck and hugged him close.
“I love you, Arthur,” she whispered in his ear.
Arthur closed his eyes and wrapped his arms around Gwen’s waist, pulling her tight against him.
XXX
Later, much later, Merlin went to find Arthur in his chambers. He’d been rushed off his feet, helping Gaius tend to the wounded and clearing up after the battle - Arthur had also been flitting about doing whatever it was he did, so Merlin hadn’t seen him since his... er... moment with Gwen in the courtyard. The story had spread through the city like wildfire, and funnily enough it turned out that most people in Camelot were hopeless romantics.
Merlin knocked on Arthur’s door and then strode in. Arthur was sitting at his table, reading through what looked like reports. Merlin decided not to ask.
“Everything alright?” Merlin asked.
Arthur nodded. “I think so,” he said. “I’ve sent Leon and Dennis to retrieve my father’s body - the funeral will be at the end of the week. The coronation will be sometime after that.”
Merlin nodded. “And the wedding?”
Arthur glared at him and ignored the question, but Merlin could see that his neck had gone a bit pink. He grinned.
“Well, I just wanted to see if you needed anything before I turned in for the night,” he said.
Arthur shook his head and Merlin turned to go, but Arthur stood up. “Merlin - wait,” he said. “I have something I want to say to you.
Merlin turned back round and Arthur leant back against the table and folded his arms. “Merlin, there are very few people that I trust completely,” he said. “You were one of them.”
Merlin started to grin, but stopped when Arthur glared at him. “Were, Merlin,” he said. “Not anymore.”
Merlin frowned. “I -”
“You lied to me about Morgana,” said Arthur flatly. “You lied to me about being a dragonlord.”
Merlin opened his mouth to protest but Arthur cut him off. “I know you had reasons for both of those lies, but the fact remains that you didn’t trust me enough to trust you.”
Merlin stared at Arthur, unable to think of a single thing to say. Arthur was looking right back at him, and Merlin could see, plainly, that he was hurt by the fact he had lied to him. Merlin was surprised by how guilty he felt... was Arthur right? Was it a matter of trust? Did he really think Morgause was right, that Arthur was the same as Uther? That’s how he’d treated him.
Arthur sighed. “I’m going to give you a second chance,” he said, “but if I ever find that you’ve lied to me again - even once - that’s it. We’re done.” Arthur stood up properly and walked over to the window.
Merlin’s mind raced. He couldn’t tell him - he couldn’t. Not after everything they’d gone through the past few days. It would be too much. But... what if he did find out later on? And more than that - Merlin was hurt by the fact Arthur didn’t trust him anymore. He wanted Arthur to trust him. Needed him to.
Now or never.
“Arthur.”
Arthur looked over his shoulder. “What?”
The words stuck in Merlin’s throat for a moment, but he forced them out. “I... I have magic,” he said. “I always have had.”
Arthur froze. “You... practise... magic?” He said softly.
“No, I don’t practise it - I have it,” said Merlin, walking over to where Arthur stood until he was right in front of him. “I was born with it. It’s just natural for me, like breathing. That’s why my mother sent me to Camelot, because Gaius was the only person who could help me make sense of it all.”
Merlin took a deep breath. It felt so good to get this all off his chest.
“I’m sorry - I really am sorry that I didn’t tell you this, but you have to understand this one, why I didn’t tell you this one,” he said. “I’ve wanted to tell you - so many times. But I always talk myself out of it, and I’m sorry. I do trust you, I really do, and I want you to trust me again - because you can. I spend all my time looking after you - you have no idea how many times I’ve had to save your life. Like today - it wasn’t the dragon that killed Morgause, it was me... or the time when you were bitten by the questing beast - I made a deal to save your life... when Lady Helen tried to kill you - I dropped the chandelier on her, I got to you in time using magic... I was the one that broke the staff that raised the dead; it wasn’t Morgana! I -”
“Enough!” Arthur exclaimed, throwing up his hands. He stepped back from Merlin and started to pace, breathing heavily through his nose. “You’re - you’re a sorcerer?”
Merlin nodded. “I have magic,” he repeated.
Arthur stared at him for a long moment before looking away. He looked back at Merlin and shook his head. “Get out,” he said quietly.
Merlin swallowed. He didn’t look happy, but then he hadn’t expected him to think it was good news.
“I - alright,” he said. “But I really am sor -”
“Out of Camelot,” Arthur said.
Merlin froze. “What?”
Arthur glared at him. “Get out of Camelot,” he repeated. “Right now.”
Merlin gaped at him. “You’re... banishing me? Arthur, I -”
Arthur’s hands clenched into fists and he swayed on the spot. “If you are still in the city by dawn, I will personally see to it that you are executed for sorcery,” he said.
“Arthur!”
“GET. OUT!”
XXX
Morgana landed with a thump on a cold, forest floor - Morgause landed next to her, her arms still around her. The magical wind dropped down.
Morgana let out a shriek of frustration and pounded the floor with her fist. So close - they had been so close.
Morgana realised suddenly that Morgause was breathing very heavily, and when she turned to look at her she found that she had her eyes closed and was very pale.
“Morgause? Morgause! Sister?” Morgana laid Morgause down on the ground and bent over her. Morgause opened her eyes.
“Morgana - I am sorry I failed you,” she said faintly.
“No, I failed you,” Morgana said. “Morgause - what is wrong?”
Morgause gasped for breath. “It was Merlin,” she said. “Sister, he is a sorcerer...”
Morgana gaped at her. “No - he couldn’t be...”
“He is - and he is powerful,” Morgause said. She reached up and cupped Morgana’s cheek. “But so are you. Harness your power, sister.”
Morgana’s eyes filled with tears. “Morgause... no - don’t leave me...”
But it was too late. Morgause’s eyes clouded over, and her hand slipped from Morgana’s face.
Morgana let out a cry of anguish and collapsed over her sister’s body, crying into her hair.
Eventually she had no more tears to cry, and Morgana looked up, her eyes flashing.
“Merlin.”
XXX
It was the middle of the night, and most of Camelot had retired to bed after a gruelling day. But one person made his way out of the castle and through the lower town. He stopped to slip a note under a door in one street, and then kept going, his shoulders slumped.
He turned back at the gate and took one last look at the city, and then shifted the bag on his back, adjusted his grip on the staff he carried, and walked away.
THE END
Title: The Beginning in the End (2/2)
Word Count: 10, 458 (this part), 16,688 over all (yikes!)
Rating: PG-13
Warning: Character death, bad writing...
SPOILERS this is my take on what the spoilers for the end of season 3 might mean, so there are definite POTENTIAL SPOILERS within. However, it is all pure speculation on my part, so probably safe to read if you're mostly unspoiled. But you have been warned.
Summary: This has been nagging at me since reading/looking at the spoilers/spoiler pics about the end of season 3 that have been floating around the last few weeks. Whatever happens is sure to be epic, but this is my take on what I think would be an amazing end to the season. Morgana, Morgause and Cenred take over Camelot, leaving Arthur, Merlin, Gwen and the knights to take it back. But first they have to save Uther and Gaius.
Okay so I lied when I said this would be shorter than the first half - clearly it isn't! And now I'm late getting ready for a party but I HAD to get it done! I won't be able to watch Merlin tonight - enjoy it, y'all!!
Thanks for reviews on the first part - let me know what you think!
THE BEGINNING IN THE END (2b/2)
The dragon swooped down over the castle, and Arthur clung on to the spike on the dragon’s back, hoping that no one could see him too clearly because he was sure he didn’t look too dignified. It was fine when the dragon was just flying straight, but when he dived and swooped and turned...
The sword that Arthur had retrieved from the lake was sheathed at his side, and Arthur was trying not to think about it too hard. There was something weird about it - Arthur had felt it the moment he’d picked it up. It had power. Also, it had been lying the bottom of a lake amongst the mud and the reeds for however long, and yet when he’d picked it up it was spotless - almost as though it had just been polished.
And there was something about it that Merlin wasn’t telling him. How had he known about the sword? Why did he seem so... almost chummy with the dragon?
Arthur shook his head and concentrated on what was happening - they had flown over the lower town, and Gwen and the knights must have seen the dragon. That meant that, if all was going according to plan, they and the knights would be attacking the castle any moment now. Arthur’s first objective was to destroy that staff - according to Gaius, it was under guard in the throne room.
“Land in the courtyard!” Arthur heard Merlin yell to the dragon.
They swooped again, and the dragon landed with a clatter and a thump of his great tail on the stone staircase. Four of Cenred’s men were in the courtyard when the dragon landed - he sent a jet of flame at them when he landed, and they screamed and ran, their clothes and hair aflame.
Merlin and Arthur slid down opposite sides of the dragon’s neck and dropped to the floor - Arthur immediately unsheathed the sword and held it ready. From here they could hear shouts and the clang of metal on metal, and a moment later the warning bell sounded - the attack had started. Hopefully it would draw most of Cenred’s men out of the castle to the walls, giving them a clear run to the throne room.
“Fly around the castle a bit to distract Cenred’s men, but be careful!” Merlin yelled to the dragon.
The dragon nodded and sprang back into the air. Merlin looked at Arthur.
“Throne room,” they said simultaneously, before running across the courtyard and darting into the castle through one of the servants’ entrances. Arthur let Merlin lead the way through the rough-hewn tunnels - he knew them better than he did, and when they burst out of them at the other end they were on the main corridor of the castle, just around the corner from the throne room.
Morgause stood at the end of the hall.
Her eyes flashed at the sight of them and raised her hand towards them - a few words a bolt of bright blue light fired towards them - Merlin and Arthur dove into an alcove and the spell just missed them.
“Go in through the back door,” Merlin whispered to Arthur. “You can stay close to the wall from here.”
“What about Morgause?”
“I’ll draw her fire,” said Merlin.
Arthur shook his head. “Merlin -”
Merlin grinned. “Don’t worry, I’m good at ducking.” And without waiting for an answer, he jumped out of the alcove and raced up the hall towards Morgause.
Arthur jumped out of the alcove and, staying low, he raced in the other direction, keeping close to the wall, to the back-door entrance of the throne room. He could hear Morgause chanting something behind him and tried not to think about what she was about to try to do to Merlin - he needed to get to that staff.
Arthur found the door and tumbled through it, landing on one knee on the dais behind the throne. He pushed himself up using the sword he still held in his right hand, and looked around. The throne room appeared to be empty - and there, directly in front of him, standing up of its own accord and emitting a magical yellow glow, was the staff of Brandorin.
Before Arthur could take so much a step towards it, a voice rang out around the empty room.
“So like you, Arthur Pendragon, to come rushing in head-first.”
Arthur froze and turned to where the voice had come from - the throne. A moment later Cenred’s face appeared around the back of it, smirking at Arthur from where he was lounging on it. Arthur’s insides twisted with rage.
“And so like you, to let your men do the fighting for you while you take what isn’t yours,” he retorted, taking a step towards him. “Get out of my throne, Cenred.”
Cenred’s smirk widened and he stood up. “Oh, your throne is it?” He said airily. “Then that must mean your father is dead.” He bowed mockingly, in an over-exaggerated way. “Long live the king.”
Arthur sneered. “You will pay for what you have done today,” he said.
Cenred laughed. “Oh, I’ve waited for this moment a long time, Arthur,” he said. “Please, do your worst.”
Arthur nodded. “Very well.” He raised the sword above his head, arced it round his body and sliced it with all his might into the side of the staff.
The sword was sharp and the staff was just wood, but it didn’t feel like cutting through a branch - Arthur felt a shock that radiated through the sword and right up his arms, and the staff shattered into five separate pieces. The pieces fell to the floor, still glowing, but within seconds they had dimmed and all that was left of the staff were five pieces of splintered wood.
Cenred let out an almighty cry and brought his sword down towards Arthur’s head - Arthur got his sword up just in time, but he hadn’t been prepared for the attack and it forced him down onto one knee. Moving quickly, he let himself fall back properly and swiped his leg round, knocking Cenred’s feet from under him. He thrust his sword down at Cenred’s chest but he rolled away, and the two of them struggled back to their feet.
Their swords clashed repeatedly as they danced around, looking for an opening. Cenred looked enraged that Arthur had been able to break the staff - it was obvious he had been told it was invincible. Arthur used the rage, dancing away from him, teasing him, making him take chances to try to reach him. He swiped at Arthur’s chest, causing Arthur to jump back and almost land on one of the pieces of the broken staff. Arthur took another step back and kicked the piece of wood up at Cenred’s face - he automatically raised his sword arm to protect his eyes, and Arthur jabbed him in the wrist - he dropped the sword, and Arthur caught it in his left hand. Using his momentum from the catch he drew back Cenred’s sword and sliced his side open with his own sword. Then Arthur followed through and thrust his own sword under Cenred’s ribs and into his heart.
Cenred gasped one last breath and slumped forward onto Arthur’s shoulder. Arthur shoved his body back and he dropped to the floor. Arthur crouched down to wipe the blood off his sword.
“Cenred why has the enchantment -”
Arthur stood up again and stared over the top of his father’s throne. There by the double doors at the other end of the throne room, his father’s crown resting on top of her head, stood Morgana.
XXX
Merlin had run straight down the hallway towards Morgause, hoping to get to here before she had time to aim another spell at him - mostly just hoping to distract her from Arthur as he made his way into the throne room. She sent another bolt of blue energy at him, but he flattened himself against the wall again.
“You’re behind this - you and Arthur!” She yelled as he peered round at her. She looked half-crazed.
“Maybe you should have killed me when you had the chance!” Merlin retorted.
Morgause gave a shriek of rage and held her hands stiff at her sides, starting to chant under her breath. Merlin didn’t have to be a warlock to recognise the beginnings of a powerful spell, and so he ran for it. He darted across the corridor and through an archway, up a short flight of steps and burst out onto the battlements. From here he could see the courtyard and, past that, the castle wall - they were too far away to see who it was, but two of the knights, several of Camelot’s guards and about a dozen ordinary people were fighting their way along the wall, taking down half a dozen of Cenred’s men. Arthur must have broken the staff.
“There is something about you, Merlin,” Morgause said coldly, emerging from the staircase. “You always seem to turn up where you’re not wanted.”
“Annoying, isn’t it?” Said Merlin flippantly.
“Extremely,” said Morgause. “And it’s time I dealt with you.”
She raised her hand but suddenly there was an almighty roar, and the dragon rose up in front of the battlements. The dragon sent a jet of flame straight at Morgause - she threw up her hand and the flames dispersed harmlessly around her. As soon as the flames stopped she threw up her other hand and sent a bolt of bright red energy at the dragon. Merlin threw up his hand and the bolt hit against a golden shield, dissipating against it.
Morgause turned her head to look at Merlin, shock written all over her face, and Merlin raised his chin defiantly.
“Get out of here!” He called to the dragon. “GO!”
The dragon beat his wings and rose up, high into the air. Merlin kept his eyes on Morgause, and dropped the shield he’d made.
“Well well well,” said Morgause, starting to smile. “This certainly explains a great deal.”
Merlin glared at her. “You’re finished,” he said. “Arthur’s broken the staff. Cenred’s men are being overrun. Arthur’s the king of Camelot, and there’s nothing you can do about it.”
Morgause sneered. “And I wonder, what would King Arthur say if he knew that his faithful servant Merlin was actually a sorcerer?”
“It doesn’t matter.”
“You think he’ll accept you, Merlin?” Morgause taunted. “You think he’ll let you live in peace? Life father like son, Merlin -”
“I don’t care what you say!” Merlin yelled. “I don’t care if Arthur hates me because I have magic - he’s still going to be a greater king than you or Morgana could ever hope to be! You say you hate Uther for what he did - you’re no better than him! In fact you’re worse!”
Morgause sneered again and suddenly flung a bolt of red light at Merlin - he flung up a hand and blocked it, and a moment later his other hand caused another bolt to hit the wall of the battlements, crumbling a chunk of stone.
“Impressive,” said Morgause drily. “But I’ve had enough of you, Merlin.”
She started to chant again, like she had in the corridor, and this time Merlin stood his ground, watching as sparks flew from her fingers, connecting her hands together with red lightning. Then, her eyes flashing, she threw the sparks at Merlin. Merlin flung out both hands and the spark hit a golden wall, but he could feel them hitting it, jabbing at him, pushing at him - Merlin had to throw all his weight into the wall, closed his eyes to concentrate on keeping it whole. He leant back, bent his elbows and, with a cry, pushed the wall away from him. The wall shuddered and the sparks bounced off it, rebounding on Morgause too quickly for her to try to put up a barrier or stop the curse. She screamed as the sparks hit her and she fell to her knees, trembling violently.
She raised her head to look at Merlin, who stood still on the other side of the battlements, glaring at her. She gasped. “You may have defeated me, boy... but my sister is far more powerful than you could imagine... more powerful than even she knows...”
As if on cue, there was a scream from below them, in the castle - a scream that was unmistakably Morgana’s. Morgause let out a cry of anguish and struggled to her feet. She cast a hateful look at Merlin and hurried down the staircase into the castle. Merlin ran after her.
XXX
Arthur stood stock-still at the sight of Morgana. She was wearing one of her grander dresses, a white and silver one, her black curls half pinned back, and diamonds glittering at her throat. A scabbard was tied around her waist and a sword with a jewelled hilt was sheathed at her hip. She certainly looked the part of a Queen. But as she took in the sight before her and turned her hate-filled eyes to look at Arthur, he saw nothing of the woman he’d loved.
Morgana smiled - a cruel, dark smile. “Brother dearest,” she said. “How nice to see you.”
Arthur placed a hand on the back of the throne and stepped round it to face her properly. “You are not my sister,” he said.
Morgana’s smile widened. “In denial, Arthur?” She asked. “I heard it from our father’s own lips.”
“I know,” said Arthur. “Yes, we had the same father. But my sister was a kind, caring woman, who knew her own mind and only ever wanted to help people. You are not her.”
Morgana laughed - the laugh was high, and rang around the empty room. “Oh Arthur, how like our father you are,” she said. “He didn’t believe it either. But this is me, Arthur - this has always been me.”
Arthur jumped off the dais and took a few steps towards her. “The Morgana I knew would never have allowed Cenred to take over Camelot,” he said. “She would never have treated her people with such callousness.”
“A means to an end, Arthur,” said Morgana. “To make a change, sacrifices have to be made.”
Arthur shook his head. “You’ve gone mad.”
Morgana smiled again. “And you have come to deal with me, have you?” She said.
“I have come to take back what is rightfully mine,” Arthur said.
Morgana’s smile disappeared. “Not anymore.” Her sword was unsheathed and in her hand in a moment - Morgana had always been fast. But so was he.
They leapt forward at the same time and their swords clashed in the middle of the throne room. They were well-matched - Arthur knew all of Morgana’s tricks but the problem was she knew his as well.
“It’s over, Morgana,” Arthur said as he parried a blow. “Even if you kill me, the knights will never swear allegiance to you.”
“What makes you think I need the knights?” Morgana demanded.
“You’ll need someone to keep order for you - the people won’t stand for a dictator.”
Morgana laughed. “Are you blind, Arthur?” She exclaimed. “What do you think Uther was?”
“He was a great king!” Arthur retorted. “He made mistakes, but he respected the people.”
Morgana just laughed again but stumbled back a bit from a particularly heavy blow.
“And he loved you - unconditionally,” Arthur said, landing another blow.
“He lied to me!” Morgana screamed.
“To protect you!” Arthur yelled back. “To protect your mother! And your father... the man you thought was your father. I wonder what he would say if he could see you now.”
Morgana leapt at Arthur but he was ready for it - he span around and slashed with his sword - he caught Morgana’s arm, gouging a deep cut in her forearm and making her scream and drop her sword. Arthur pressed the advantage - he knocked Morgana’s legs from under her and dropped down after her, pinning her under his knee with his sword to her throat. The crown slipped off Morgana’s head and rolled away before dropping to the floor with a clunk.
There was a silence as they stared at each other, breathing heavily.
“Go on then,” Morgana said.
Arthur shook his head. “I don’t want to kill you, Morgana,” he said.
Morgana sneered. “No, far too noble to kill a woman, aren’t you?” She said.
“No - I don’t want to kill you, Morgana, because you’re my sister,” he said. “You always have been.”
Morgana swallowed, but before she could say anything they heard footsteps and Arthur heard Merlin yell his name. Arthur looked up and saw Morgause in the doorway - he raised his sword in reflex, and the bolt of blue light she sent at him hit the blade. The force of it knocked Arthur back several feet, and the sword fell out of his hand and skidded across the floor.
Morgause ran into the throne room and straight to Morgana - Arthur noticed that she was breathing heavily, and doubled over as though in pain. She wrapped her arms around Morgana and started to chant.
Arthur recognised the words and struggled to sit up. “Wait - no!”
But it was too late; her eyes flashed gold and there was a high wind, whipping around her and Morgana. A moment later, they were both gone.
Arthur stared at the spot where they’d been and then punched the floor. “Damnit!” He yelled. He looked up at Merlin, who had just appeared in the doorway. “They’re gone,” he said.
Merlin nodded. “But Morgause was injured - badly,” he said. “A killing curse rebounded onto her - she’ll probably be dead within minutes.”
“Are you sure?” Arthur asked, getting to his feet. Merlin nodded.
“Well... good.” He walked over to where the sword was lying on the floor - the magic it had absorbed didn’t seem to have harmed it at all.
“What happed with Morgana?” Merlin asked.
Arthur sheathed the sword and sighed. “I couldn’t kill her,” he admitted. “I just couldn’t do it.”
Merlin nodded, not seeming too surprised. “Well, she doesn’t have Morgause anymore, or Cenred,” he said. “Maybe... maybe she’ll come to her senses.”
“Do you really think that will happen?” Asked Arthur.
Merlin shrugged, but Arthur could tell he didn’t think so. Arthur sighed again.
There were footsteps in the corridor outside and both Merlin and Arthur unsheathed their swords, facing the dooway, but a moment later Sir Dennis and Sir Olsen ran in, with three guards on their heels. They all looked extremely relieved to see Arthur, who sheathed his sword and strode forward.
“Report?”
“It’s over, Sire,” said Sir Dennis. “Practically the entire lower town rose up, and once the enchantment was broken and the guards were on our side as well, Cenred’s men didn’t stand a chance.”
“Most of them are dead, but Sir Leon ordered that three of be kept alive - they’re tied up on the training ground,” said Sir Olsen.
Arthur nodded. “Good,” he said. “Get them to the dungeons. We’re going to need to set up a field hospital for the wounded - get Gaius up here. Open up all the gates of the castle but keep guards on them, just in case we’ve missed any of Cenred’s men and they try to escape. And send someone to get rid of Cenred’s body.”
“Yes, Sire,” said all five of the men. They bowed to Arthur and hurried off.
Arthur turned back to Merlin and saw that he had picked up the crown from where it had fallen on the ground. He held it out to Arthur, and Arthur took it, feeling the cold weight of it. He glanced at Merlin before walking over to the throne and placing the crown on the seat. There it would remain until he was officially crowned.
“What now?” Merlin asked.
Arthur turned back round and sighed. “Well, I could murder a hot bath - but for now I’ll make do with a clean shirt.”
XXX
It really was all over. By the time Arthur had taken off his armour and changed his clothes, the castle was already bustling with activity again. Every single person he passed bowed or curtseyed to him, many with tears in their eyes, and Arthur made sure to stop and thank each of them for their loyalty. He made his way through the castle and down into the courtyard, Merlin on his heels, and stopped at the top of the stone steps leading down into it.
Six horseriders rode into the courtyard from the opposite corner - five of them were knights, their armour gleaming and their scarlet cloaks flapping in the breeze - but Arthur stared at the lead rider. It was Gwen.
She was still in her plain travelling clothes, her hair was escaping from where she’d pinned it up, and there was not a single jewel or rich thing about her person. But to Arthur, he’d never seen anyone who looked more regal.
Arthur shook his head and jogged down the steps. He strode across the courtyard as Gwen pulled up her horse and the five knights - Gwaine, Lancelot, Elyan, Percival and Leon - stopped behind her. Arthur knew how to recognise power, and he wondered if Gwen realised the sway she held over the five men behind her. He doubted it.
Arthur stopped next to Gwen’s horse and held out his hands to help her down. She swung one leg over and he lifted her down, smiling at her. He opened his mouth to thank her - for helping him, for being safe - but before he could speak she reached up to placed her hand on her neck, pulled him down and kissed him.
Arthur’s hand tightened on Gwen’s arms and he kissed her back - his mind went blissfully blank and it wasn’t until she pulled away that Arthur realised what she’d just done. Gwen had just kissed him in public, in front of everybody. Not only the five knights behind her, but all the people in the courtyard. But Gwen was smiling at him when he opened his eyes, and she immediately wrapped her arms around her neck and hugged him close.
“I love you, Arthur,” she whispered in his ear.
Arthur closed his eyes and wrapped his arms around Gwen’s waist, pulling her tight against him.
XXX
Later, much later, Merlin went to find Arthur in his chambers. He’d been rushed off his feet, helping Gaius tend to the wounded and clearing up after the battle - Arthur had also been flitting about doing whatever it was he did, so Merlin hadn’t seen him since his... er... moment with Gwen in the courtyard. The story had spread through the city like wildfire, and funnily enough it turned out that most people in Camelot were hopeless romantics.
Merlin knocked on Arthur’s door and then strode in. Arthur was sitting at his table, reading through what looked like reports. Merlin decided not to ask.
“Everything alright?” Merlin asked.
Arthur nodded. “I think so,” he said. “I’ve sent Leon and Dennis to retrieve my father’s body - the funeral will be at the end of the week. The coronation will be sometime after that.”
Merlin nodded. “And the wedding?”
Arthur glared at him and ignored the question, but Merlin could see that his neck had gone a bit pink. He grinned.
“Well, I just wanted to see if you needed anything before I turned in for the night,” he said.
Arthur shook his head and Merlin turned to go, but Arthur stood up. “Merlin - wait,” he said. “I have something I want to say to you.
Merlin turned back round and Arthur leant back against the table and folded his arms. “Merlin, there are very few people that I trust completely,” he said. “You were one of them.”
Merlin started to grin, but stopped when Arthur glared at him. “Were, Merlin,” he said. “Not anymore.”
Merlin frowned. “I -”
“You lied to me about Morgana,” said Arthur flatly. “You lied to me about being a dragonlord.”
Merlin opened his mouth to protest but Arthur cut him off. “I know you had reasons for both of those lies, but the fact remains that you didn’t trust me enough to trust you.”
Merlin stared at Arthur, unable to think of a single thing to say. Arthur was looking right back at him, and Merlin could see, plainly, that he was hurt by the fact he had lied to him. Merlin was surprised by how guilty he felt... was Arthur right? Was it a matter of trust? Did he really think Morgause was right, that Arthur was the same as Uther? That’s how he’d treated him.
Arthur sighed. “I’m going to give you a second chance,” he said, “but if I ever find that you’ve lied to me again - even once - that’s it. We’re done.” Arthur stood up properly and walked over to the window.
Merlin’s mind raced. He couldn’t tell him - he couldn’t. Not after everything they’d gone through the past few days. It would be too much. But... what if he did find out later on? And more than that - Merlin was hurt by the fact Arthur didn’t trust him anymore. He wanted Arthur to trust him. Needed him to.
Now or never.
“Arthur.”
Arthur looked over his shoulder. “What?”
The words stuck in Merlin’s throat for a moment, but he forced them out. “I... I have magic,” he said. “I always have had.”
Arthur froze. “You... practise... magic?” He said softly.
“No, I don’t practise it - I have it,” said Merlin, walking over to where Arthur stood until he was right in front of him. “I was born with it. It’s just natural for me, like breathing. That’s why my mother sent me to Camelot, because Gaius was the only person who could help me make sense of it all.”
Merlin took a deep breath. It felt so good to get this all off his chest.
“I’m sorry - I really am sorry that I didn’t tell you this, but you have to understand this one, why I didn’t tell you this one,” he said. “I’ve wanted to tell you - so many times. But I always talk myself out of it, and I’m sorry. I do trust you, I really do, and I want you to trust me again - because you can. I spend all my time looking after you - you have no idea how many times I’ve had to save your life. Like today - it wasn’t the dragon that killed Morgause, it was me... or the time when you were bitten by the questing beast - I made a deal to save your life... when Lady Helen tried to kill you - I dropped the chandelier on her, I got to you in time using magic... I was the one that broke the staff that raised the dead; it wasn’t Morgana! I -”
“Enough!” Arthur exclaimed, throwing up his hands. He stepped back from Merlin and started to pace, breathing heavily through his nose. “You’re - you’re a sorcerer?”
Merlin nodded. “I have magic,” he repeated.
Arthur stared at him for a long moment before looking away. He looked back at Merlin and shook his head. “Get out,” he said quietly.
Merlin swallowed. He didn’t look happy, but then he hadn’t expected him to think it was good news.
“I - alright,” he said. “But I really am sor -”
“Out of Camelot,” Arthur said.
Merlin froze. “What?”
Arthur glared at him. “Get out of Camelot,” he repeated. “Right now.”
Merlin gaped at him. “You’re... banishing me? Arthur, I -”
Arthur’s hands clenched into fists and he swayed on the spot. “If you are still in the city by dawn, I will personally see to it that you are executed for sorcery,” he said.
“Arthur!”
“GET. OUT!”
XXX
Morgana landed with a thump on a cold, forest floor - Morgause landed next to her, her arms still around her. The magical wind dropped down.
Morgana let out a shriek of frustration and pounded the floor with her fist. So close - they had been so close.
Morgana realised suddenly that Morgause was breathing very heavily, and when she turned to look at her she found that she had her eyes closed and was very pale.
“Morgause? Morgause! Sister?” Morgana laid Morgause down on the ground and bent over her. Morgause opened her eyes.
“Morgana - I am sorry I failed you,” she said faintly.
“No, I failed you,” Morgana said. “Morgause - what is wrong?”
Morgause gasped for breath. “It was Merlin,” she said. “Sister, he is a sorcerer...”
Morgana gaped at her. “No - he couldn’t be...”
“He is - and he is powerful,” Morgause said. She reached up and cupped Morgana’s cheek. “But so are you. Harness your power, sister.”
Morgana’s eyes filled with tears. “Morgause... no - don’t leave me...”
But it was too late. Morgause’s eyes clouded over, and her hand slipped from Morgana’s face.
Morgana let out a cry of anguish and collapsed over her sister’s body, crying into her hair.
Eventually she had no more tears to cry, and Morgana looked up, her eyes flashing.
“Merlin.”
XXX
It was the middle of the night, and most of Camelot had retired to bed after a gruelling day. But one person made his way out of the castle and through the lower town. He stopped to slip a note under a door in one street, and then kept going, his shoulders slumped.
He turned back at the gate and took one last look at the city, and then shifted the bag on his back, adjusted his grip on the staff he carried, and walked away.
THE END