Fic: Uncer giedd geador 2/3
MASTER POST | PART 1
Merlin walked into his new room and went towards the table near the fireplace. Arthur followed, but sat on the bed.
“Shall we get ready for bed?” Arthur asked.
“We need to talk,” Merlin responded.
“I know you can talk and work at the same time, you do it enough in the mornings getting me ready.”
Merlin made a face at his lover. “Fine. Shall I undress you?”
“No. Just talk.”
Merlin jerked his head back a little in surprise. Arthur always wanted Merlin to undress him.
“Talk about what?”
“How you started using magic.”
“Well,” Merlin started. He sat at the table, his back to the fireplace, and his hands on the table. “I was born with it. I never knew my father and mother never talks about him, so I can only assume that I got my magic from him. Mother said I first used magic when I was one. She was standing on a chair, trying to get something from a high shelf. I was sitting on the floor playing, she said. The chair wobbled and mother began to fall, so I stopped her.”
“Stopped her?” Arthur’s voice was muffled as he pulled his shirt off.
“Yeah, I don’t know how I did it, but she paused in mid-air. She said I put her down gently on the floor and got what she needed off the top shelf. Mother said I once tried to use magic in the middle of town, but she stopped me before anyone could see.”
Arthur looked up from pulling off his shoes. “Magic isn’t illegal in your kingdom.”
“She didn’t want anyone to be afraid of me. Anyway, my friend Will learned about it one day when I saved him from falling out of a tree. He swore not to tell anyone.”
Merlin saw Arthur scowl and throw his shoes aside. “You don’t need to be jealous. Will is practically my brother, we grew up together, thinking about being with him romantically makes me kind of ill.”
“I’m not jealous,” Arthur muttered. He reached for his pants and said, “Go on.”
“There’s not much more to tell. I did magic for Mother and Will, but it was never on purpose, it was always accidental. Mother sent me here to help Gaius, but really Gaius has helped me.” Merlin chuckled, “I even saved Gaius on my first day.”
“Really?”
“He was falling, I pushed a bed under him. For the longest time, my magic only came out when people needed my help. Now, I can kill people with it. I don’t like doing it, but I will.”
“Merlin,” Arthur said coming closer to his lover.
“If I have to kill people to keep you safe, I will. I killed Lady Helen to save you.”
Arthur grabbed Merlin’s hands off the table and turned the warlock to face him. “From what you told me and what I know, you’ve only used your magic for good. I know father is wrong.” Arthur paused then said, “Magic is like a sword.”
“What?” Merlin blinked.
“It depends on who wields it. Some use it for good and some use it for evil.”
Merlin wasn’t sure if he wanted to cry in happiness, relief, pride in Arthur’s statement or kiss Arthur senseless. “Arthur…”
Arthur leaned in and kissed Merlin. He pulled back and rested his head against Merlin’s. “I’m sure father has his reasons for hating magic, but I think I’ve found mine for liking it. You and Mordred.”
Merlin grinned. “I knew you’d come around. You’re going to make a great king.”
Arthur raised an eyebrow while getting up from the table. “If I slip up every now and then, I expect you to take me to task.”
“As if I’d ever let the chance to yell at you go.”
Arthur laughed. “Figures. Why don’t you get ready for bed? I know there is still more to discuss, but I’m tired.”
Merlin shook his head, “Sometimes you are such a prat.”
“Yeah, yeah, I’ve heard it all before.” Arthur got into bed, on the right side. He watched Merlin change and asked, “When did Mordred start calling you daddy?”
“I said he should call me something, so Uther didn’t see through our plan. I thought he would call me father, but he asked what little kids call their dads. I didn’t really know, but I remembered Will calling his father ‘daddy’, so it’s what I said. I was shocked when he called me daddy. He’s not that young, but if it’s what he wants, I’ll let him do it.”
“How old is he?”
“Nine.”
“We’ll have to have a birthday party for him when he turns ten.”
“If he even knows his birthday.”
“We’ll give him one,” Arthur said with a scowl.
Merlin smiled and crawled into bed next to Arthur. Arthur put his arms around Merlin and pulled him closer.
“You are a good father,” Merlin said as he rested his head on Arthur’s chest.
“I wonder if he’ll call me anything?” Arthur asked. Arthur looked down at Merlin and saw he was already asleep. Arthur smiled softly and closed his eyes as well. Tomorrow would bring new things to deal with. I do hope he calls me something other than Arthur someday, Arthur thought as he drifted off to sleep. It would be nice.
****
Two months passed for the new family without anything terrible happening. Then, all of a sudden, whenever Merlin was anywhere near Arthur, weapons flew off walls and tried to kill Arthur. People began to wonder if the powers above were against the union of the prince and his servant.
****
“Damn it,” Arthur cursed as he strode down the hallway. His father and some advisors had pulled him into a meeting where they had tried to convince him to break up with Merlin. After staring at them in shock, he yelled at them, and left.
“Telling me whom I can and cannot marry,” he spat.
Guards and servants who he walked past, moved aside. They all knew not to get in the way of the angry prince.
“Merlin!” he yelled as he threw open his bedroom door. “MERLIN!”
Merlin came running out from Mordred’s bedroom, looking frazzled. “What? Did something happen to someone?”
“Yes. Me.”
Merlin rushed over and began to look Arthur over. Finding no visible injuries, he quickly began to feel the prince up.
“As much as I enjoy this,” Arthur drawled. “I am not injured.”
“Then what happened to you?” Merlin sighed. He had worked himself into a tizzy thinking his lover was hurt.
“Father and his advisors suggested I end my relationship with you!” Arthur fumed.
“Because of the flying weapons?” Merlin asked.
“Yes, because of the flying weapons trying to kill me. They think the powers above don’t want our relationship to work.”
Merlin frowned and bit his lip. He glanced at Mordred, who had followed him. The boy had his eyes squinted up and was looking past them. Mordred is concentrating very hard on something, Merlin thought.
Suddenly, an axe from Arthur’s personal collection came flying towards them. Arthur pushed Merlin out of the way and fell on top of him. The axe headed straight towards Mordred, who was staring in shock. Merlin muttered a spell and the axe fell to the ground halfway between the boy and his fathers.
“Mordred,” Merlin questioned. “Did you make that axe fly?”
“No,” Mordred replied, looking Merlin right in the eyes.
Arthur stood up and helped Merlin up. He walked towards the axe and picked it up. He stared at Mordred, who looked right back. Arthur smirked and ruffled the boy’s hair.
“Mordred,” Merlin stated. “Do not lie to me. Have you been trying to kill Arthur?”
“Yes,” Mordred huffed.
“It’s fine,” Arthur said. He put the axe back where it came from. “It’s made me good at dodging, so there’s no harm done.”
“Arthur!” Merlin exclaimed. “He can’t go around thinking it’s ok to use magic in front of others to kill his father!”
Arthur came and stood next to Merlin. He put an arm over his shoulders and kissed his head. “What should we do?”
Merlin grinned at Arthur, then looked at Mordred. Mordred gulped, he didn’t like that look.
****
Morgana tilted her head to the side, as she walked by the stables. “Mordred, what are you doing?” she asked.
“Cleaning up after Arthur’s horse. And all the other horses. Without magic,” the boy growled.
“Why?”
“He tried to kill me with flying weapons,” Arthur said from behind her. He was carrying a basket full of food. “Merlin thought it would be good punishment.”
“For using magic or trying to kill you?”
“Both. Personally, I feel trying to kill me isn’t that big of a deal. Father seemed to try do to it for my training. Mordred is just helping me train.”
Morgana blinked at her brother. “Arthur, sometimes, you are very strange.”
Arthur grinned at her. He then went into the stables and set the basket down. “The cooks made you some things to eat.”
“Daddy said I couldn’t have a snack,” Mordred replied. He had his back to the prince and was scooping up hay and anything else that happened to be on the ground.
“What Merlin doesn’t know, won’t hurt him,” Arthur said with a smile.
Morgana scoffed, “I’m leaving now, before I get into trouble.” She waved at them both as she left.
Arthur stared at Mordred’s back. “If you don’t want it, that’s fine. Just remember to give it to someone less fortunate than you, ok?”
Mordred nodded. He waited until he heard Arthur leave, then turned around to inspect the basket.
“All my favorites,” he muttered. He looked around, checking for Arthur or Merlin, and began to eat.
****
Arthur watched from the shadows of the stable as Mordred ate the food he had given him. He grinned, someday he’d get that boy to like him, and if it had to be through food, then it would be.
****
Soon, the castle became filled with new sounds. Sounds of weapons falling to the floor, sounds of Merlin yelling at Mordred, and sounds of Arthur laughing. The older servants were quite pleased with that last sound, as it had been many years since their prince laughed so openly.
“He does sound quite happy,” Gaius remarked one day to Merlin while they were in Gaius’ rooms.
“I like to think Mordred and I make him happy,” Merlin replied with a blush.
“I believe that you do.”
The door burst open and Mordred came running in, with Arthur right behind him. Arthur had a scratch on his face and Mordred was scowling.
“Mordred!” Merlin yelled. “Did you just try to kill Arthur again?”
“No,” Mordred lied.
“He has a cut on his cheek!” Merlin got up and pulled Arthur into a chair.
“It’s nothing, Merlin,” the prince said.
“Humph, just let Gaius fix you up,” Merlin responded.
“Fine,” Arthur sighed.
Gaius chuckled at them and began to work on the prince’s face.
“Mordred,” Merlin began.
“No one was around!” Mordred cried. “I made sure to check.”
Merlin sighed and put a hand over his face. “That’s not the point. You can’t kill Arthur, he’s your father.”
“No, he’s not,” Mordred muttered.
Arthur jerked his head and Merlin knew he had heard that. Gaius coughed in discomfort. Merlin felt his anger flare up.
“Mordred Pendragon,” Merlin intoned, his eyes flashing gold, “Arthur didn’t have to take you in, he could have turned you in or let you get away. He is much your father as I am, understood?”
Mordred nodded sulkily. Arthur came up next to Merlin and placed a hand on his arm.
“It’s fine,” Arthur laughed. “Mordred and I don’t have much in common, yet, not like you and him. And as for the flying weapons, I need the practice anyway.” He kissed Merlin’s cheek. “Oh, Merlin, father wants to talk to you.”
“About what?” Merlin gulped.
Arthur shrugged and took the warlock’s hand, pulling him towards the door.
Merlin gave Mordred a stern look, then said, “You stay here with Gaius and help him do some work.”
Mordred glared as they walked away. Why does Daddy like that stupid prince more than me? he wondered. The prince can’t even do magic.
Gaius laid a hand on Mordred’s shoulder. “Why don’t you help me by reading the ingredients for me?”
Mordred nodded and began to help his grandfather. I’ll get that prince next time, he thought.
****
Merlin flopped back onto Morgana’s couch and sighed.
“What’s wrong?” asked Morgana as she brushed her hair at her vanity.
“Mordred keeps trying to kill Arthur. And Arthur enjoys it! So does Uther!” Merlin exclaimed in frustration. “I want Mordred to stop, but with Arthur and Uther encouraging it, I don’t think I can.”
Morgana set her brush down and walked over to Merlin, her long dress swishing as she moved. She sat next to the warlock and put a hand on his knee.
“Merlin,” she said seriously, “the Pendragons are utterly and completely strange. When Arthur was young, Uther made him go through vicious training sessions. It was to make him stronger, he said. Arthur once told me that he thought Uther was trying to kill him. Perhaps, this is the only way Uther could show how much he cared for his son, I don’t know.”
“And you think that’s why they both like it so much?” Merlin asked, biting his lip.
Morgana shrugged. “The Pendragons don’t seem to know too much about love. Uther seemed to shut down after his wife died, and I don’t know if Arthur got any proper affection until you came along.”
Merlin blushed and got up from the couch. He walked towards the table in her room and stopped. “I don’t know about that,” he said.
Morgana smiled at his back. “If Arthur doesn’t mind, then don’t make a big deal out of it,” she continued. “Just make sure Mordred knows not to do magic in front of anyone besides us. It will all work out, you know I’m always right.”
Merlin nodded distractedly, while staring at the door.
“Now, get out of here before Gwen comes. I would like some alone time with my lover,” Morgana commanded.
Merlin jumped, blushed even harder and practically ran out the door. Morgana laughed as the door banged shut behind him.
****
A few days passed, with no attempts on Arthur’s life. He was beginning to worry. He walked towards Gaius’ room to pick up Merlin to see if his lover wanted to eat with him. He passed by a tapestry he used to hide behind as a child and glanced at it.
Mordred hid behind the tapestry and waited for Arthur to pass by him. As soon as the Prince came into view and went passed him a little ways, an axe flew towards Arthur. Arthur dodged the axe and then fell to the floor to avoid a dagger that also came flying at him. He checked to make sure nothing else was coming for him, stood up, dusted himself off, and looked in the direction of the tapestry.
“Nicely played. However, I believe you tried that last week as well,” he smirked.
Mordred scowled, as he came out from his hiding spot. “I was hoping to lull you into a false sense of security.”
Arthur threw his head back and laughed. “I knew that letting you come see the knights train was a good thing.” He smiled at his adopted son. “Come, let’s go see how Merlin is coming along.”
“Grandfather Gaius is probably making him clean more bowls,” Mordred stated.
Arthur tried to place a hand on Mordred’s shoulder, however the boy ducked away. Arthur frowned down at him, but let it pass. Mordred felt satisfied, but for a moment, Mordred also felt a twinge of distress. He shook himself lightly and marched ahead of Arthur. I’m going to see Daddy first. Arthur always saw Daddy first, it isn’t fair, Mordred thought.
****
Mordred burst into Gaius’ workspace. “Daddy!” he cried out.
Merlin looked up from his work and smiled as Mordred ran to him and was caught in a hug. “Hello! I see Arthur is with you, no luck today huh?” Merlin asked with a grin. Merlin had decided to accept what Mordred was doing because Arthur seemed to enjoy it. He did make sure Mordred knew when it was acceptable and when it wasn’t.
Mordred scowled. “No. He dodged.”
“Well, it’s what he does best,” Merlin laughed. “Especially since you’ve been helping him train.”
Arthur chuckled from behind them. “He used the same stunt he used last week.”
“Flying axes and daggers? Mordred, you must be careful. Remember, Uther and the guards aren’t supposed to know of your magic.”
“I know Daddy. I made sure it was just him. Even when someone is around they think I’ve used wires or something. The people here are very ignorant.” Mordred saw Arthur frown again. Mordred shifted closer to Merlin.
“Can you go now or is Grandfather Gaius still using you?” the boy asked.
“I am done with him. He’s ruined four medicines today,” Gaius replied grumpily.
“Perhaps Merlin,” drawled Arthur, “medicine isn’t your calling.”
“Oh, shove off,” Merlin said while standing up.
Arthur leaned over and kissed Merlin. “Never.”
Mordred kicked Arthur’s shin and glared up at him. “I’m hungry.”
Arthur grinned and picked him up before he could move away. Merlin beamed, so Mordred suffered through it. Although, it is nice to have such a higher vantage point, Mordred mused. He wouldn’t tell that to Arthur though, then the Prince would always want to carry him. Mordred glanced up thoughtfully and saw the perfect spot to hide a pile of armor or a boulder. Mordred grinned. Arthur wouldn’t see that one coming.
****
Mordred was lying happily on Morgana’s bed, while Merlin and Arthur were off to fight a monster. Morgana was lying next to him, reading him a book. Gwen was humming and milling about the room. She put a vase of flowers on the table and turned to look at them.
“Mordred?” she asked.
“Yes Auntie Gwen,” Mordred replied.
“Why do you hate Arthur so much? He is very nice to you and always tries to help you,” she said. She walked over to the bed and sat on Mordred’s other side.
“He doesn’t like me,” Mordred said sulkily. “He doesn’t want me around.”
“When did Arthur ever say that?” Morgana asked sharply.
“He didn’t have to. He frowned at me and he was thinking how you all could have shipped me off to the druids.”
“He calls you his son and always corrects people when they call you Merlin’s son,” Gwen said kindly. “He even took a turn washing you when you were sick.”
“He did carry him into the wagon and into your house Gwen,” Morgana spoke up. “He honestly doesn’t mind when you try to kill him with sharp things.”
“Pfft, he only does all that because he loves Daddy and wants to keep Daddy happy. I am an afterthought. He always gets to Daddy first and Daddy always hangs out with the prince. He’s just a stupid prince who can’t even do magic!” Mordred yelled. “He doesn’t even like me, let alone love me and consider me his son!”
Gwen raised a hand and smacked Mordred’s cheek. Mordred gasped and turned to look at Morgana, who was looking angry.
“Don’t you ever, ever say Arthur doesn’t love you or consider you his son,” Gwen said furiously. “He loves and adores you, and not just because Merlin does.”
“Mordred, I know the druids told you things about the Pendragons,” Morgana said while taking a deep breath, “but they only apply to Uther now. Arthur has changed his thoughts about magic, not only because of Merlin, but also because of you. He’d do anything to protect you.”
Mordred held the cheek where Gwen slapped him and bit his lip. He felt his eyes begin to tear up. He was shocked Gwen had hit him, Morgana had always told him she wouldn’t hurt a fly.
“Oh, Mordred,” Gwen whispered. She reached out and hugged him tightly. “This will all make sense someday,” she said into his hair. “You just have to believe in your fathers.”
“Why don’t you spend the night here, with Gwen and I?” Morgana suggested. “I’ll make sure Merlin and Arthur know you’re here when they get back.”
Mordred nodded into Gwen’s shoulder. He was really tired all of a sudden. He fell asleep with both of his aunts wrapped around him.
****
Mordred awoke to muffled shouting. He sat up groggily and rubbed his eyes. At the other end of Morgana’s bedroom, Arthur was shouting quietly at Gwen.
“You hit him? How could you?” he asked.
Gwen sighed. “I already told you, he said something horrible. I was just making a point.”
“A point! A point!” Arthur’s voice rose, but he was shushed by Merlin.
Arthur looked towards the bed, but didn’t seem to see that Mordred was awake.
“It’s because of my drapes,” Morgana said quietly from beside him.
Mordred jumped. “What do you mean?”
“The drapes around the bed are pretty thick. You should go back to listening,” Morgana said slyly.
Mordred flushed, but turned his attention towards Arthur and Gwen.
“Don’t you ever hit my son again,” Arthur said ferociously. “I don’t care if you are my sister-in-law, I won’t allow anyone to hit my son.”
Mordred blinked at the scene. “He really feels like that?” he asked.
Morgana nodded. “Go back to sleep, Arthur will rant for a long time before Merlin can calm him down.”
Mordred laid back down next to Morgana, but it took him awhile before he fell asleep. Perhaps, Arthur isn’t all that bad, he thought as he finally drifted off to sleep.
****
Merlin sighed as he stood next to a fidgeting Mordred. “Mordred, please stop moving,” he said.
“This is an annoying outfit,” the boy scowled and tugged at his collar.
“I know, but this is Arthur’s big day, so we must act proper.”
“Fine,” the boy huffed.
Arthur came up to them then and put a hand on each of their shoulders. “How are we doing?” the prince asked.
“Horrible,” Mordred sulked.
“Mordred,” Merlin chastised.
Arthur just laughed. “I hate wearing this too, but it is a formal event, so we must suffer through it.”
“Arthur always ruined his clothes anyway when he was younger,” Morgana said, coming up behind them. Gwen was next to her a new dress. Merlin raised an eyebrow and Gwen blushed.
“I didn’t have to wear them anymore if they were ruined,” Arthur grinned.
Uther waved a hand at Arthur from across the room.
“Well, look like it is time for the ceremony,” Arthur said excitedly. “Just stand here and look pretty.”
“Who?” asked Morgana slyly.
“Why all of you of course.” Arthur kissed Morgana’s cheek, kissed Gwen’s hand, ruffled Mordred’s hair and kissed Merlin on the lips before jogging to his place.
Merlin watched as Arthur walked calmly down the long banquet hall, towards his father. Once Arthur was directly in front of his father, he knelt down on one knee.
“We are gathered here today to see Prince Arthur become Crown Prince Arthur,” Uther said loudly so everyone in the room could hear him. “He has worked hard to become a good prince and will continue on doing so.” Uther reached next to him and brought up a small crown. He then placed the crown on Arthur’s head. Arthur stood up and faced everyone else in the room.
“I present you with Crown Prince Arthur!” Uther yelled.
Everyone cheered as Arthur beamed. Suddenly, the doors to the banquet hall slammed open and a knight wearing all black and riding a black horse came inside. People began to mutter and move away from him in fear. He rode right up towards Uther and Arthur. Merlin pushed Mordred behind him and made to move towards Arthur. Morgana held him back.
“I don’t think he’ll do anything here,” she whispered.
Merlin scowled, but nodded.
The black knight pointed at Arthur, then dropped his glove. Arthur bent to pick it up, but a young knight stepped in faster and scooped the glove up.
“I will fight you,” he said.
“Sir Elwynn, no. He challenged me,” Arthur said.
“And I am challenging him. You were just crowned and I am your knight. It is my duty to protect you,” Elwynn replied.
The knight said nothing. He turned his horse around and rode out of the banquet hall.
Merlin watched as the black knight rode away. There’s something strange about him, he thought.
****
“Must I watch the tournament?” Mordred whined, as Merlin helped him into his formal wear.
“Yes, it’s important to Arthur,” Merlin replied while fixing his own clothes. “These are more annoying than that stupid outfit with the hat Arthur made me wear.”
“What?” Mordred asked.
“I was being mean to him to hide my feelings,” Arthur said as he entered the room. “You two look great, let’s go.”
“Hide your feelings, ha! You were just being a prat!” Merlin responded.
“Maybe, maybe not,” Arthur grinned cheekily.
Mordred rolled his eyes and made a face. Adults are so gross.
The three of them made their way down the hallway and ran into Gwen and Morgana. Morgana looked ill.
“Are you all right Aunt Morgana?” Mordred questioned.
“Yes, just nightmares,” she bit her lip before saying, “I have a bad feeling about the tournament.”
Merlin’s eyes widened and he looked at Gwen, who nodded.
Was it one of those dreams Daddy? Mordred thought out to Merlin.
Yes, Merlin thought back. The warlock turned to Arthur. “Perhaps, we ought to stay in today.”
“Nonsense,” Arthur scoffed. “Morgana’s always had crazy dreams. We must hurry or else father will yell at all of us.”
With that, Arthur grabbed Merlin and Mordred’s hands and led them outside and to the tournament ring. Gwen who was helping Morgana walk, trailed behind them.
****
Merlin winced as Elwynn was knocked back onto the ground. “He’s not a strong as the black knight, is he?” Merlin asked Arthur quietly.
“No,” Arthur replied grimly.
“Is he going to die?” Mordred questioned.
“Probably,” Uther said. “But that was his choice. We all must make that choice at some point.”
Merlin looked over at Gwen and Morgana. Morgana was hiding her face in Gwen’s shoulder, while Gwen watched the combat.
“I hope Morgana feels better,” Merlin said.
“She will. She always does,” Arthur said distractedly.
Suddenly, the black knight kicked Elwynn’s feet out from under him. Elwynn’s sword went flying from his hand. Elywnn fell to the ground and was unable to get to his sword in time. The black knight brought his own black sword up and thrust it into Elwynn’s chest. The crowd gasped in shock.
Merlin tried to hid Mordred’s face, but Uther had already done it. The black knight walked up to them and threw his glove down again. Arthur jumped out of his seat, but Uther held his son back. Another knight picked up the glove.
“I, Sir Hector, will fight you,” the knight said.
“Hector!” Arthur yelled. He tugged his arm free of his father’s grip.
“My lord, like Elwynn said, it is my duty.” Hector bowed to Uther and Arthur. He then half-bowed to the black knight. “Tomorrow we shall fight.”
****
The next day, Merlin flinched as the black knight landed a killing blow on Hector. The black knight threw his glove down once more, and Arthur jumped out of his seat and grabbed it before anyone else.
Arthur growled, “That’s it. I’m fighting!”
“Arthur, you can’t,” Uther declared.
“I can beat him. I can beat anyone!” Arthur yelled. He threw the glove back to the black knight. “In two days, we fight.”
The black knight nodded and left the arena.
“Are you sure you can beat him?” Merlin asked worriedly.
“Yes,” Arthur said determinedly.
****
Merlin blinked at Gaius. It had been four hours since Arthur agreed to fight the black knight and Merlin was desperate for a way to help his lover. “What do you mean the black knight is already dead?”
“Uther and I had a suspicion, so I checked it out during the fight. The black knight is Uther’s deceased brother-in-law, Tristan de Bois.”
“What? How is that possible?”
“Magic, obviously.” Gaius grabbed a book from his shelf and threw it down on the table. Merlin came over and watched as Gaius flipped through the books pages. “Here,” the old man pointed. “A wraith. Someone raised him from the dead for revenge.”
“Why would Tristan want revenge on Arthur?”
“Not Arthur, Uther.”
“What?”
“Tristan believed Uther killed his wife, Ygraine.”
“Did he?”
Gaius shrugged uncomfortably. “We must find out who did it and stop Tristan and the one who raised him.”
“Nimueh, obviously,” Mordred spoke up from under the table.
Merlin and Gaius jumped.
“How long have you been there young man?” Gaius asked.
“Long enough to hear the whole conversation,” Mordred replied as he crawled out from under the table and sat on the bench.
“How do you know about Nimueh?” Merlin questioned his son.
“Auntie Gwen told me about her as a bedtime story. Well,” the boy paused, “I think she was really telling me about you getting poisoned and Arthur saving you, but Nimueh was more interesting.”
Gaius sighed. “All right, since we know who it is, we must find a way to stop him.”
“How do we do that?” Mordred asked.
“Go talk to Geoffrey,” Gaius replied as he turned away. “I’m going to be making…something for Uther.”
“Not Geoffrey,” Mordred whined as Merlin drug him out of Gaius’ workroom. “He always wants me to read things.”
“You like reading,” Merlin said.
“Yeah, interesting stuff, like fighting and magic and dragons. Not boring history stuff.”
Merlin rolled his eyes and muttered, “Kids.”
****
“Only a weapon forged of dragon’s breath can kill a wraith,” Mordred said as he and Merlin walked through the castle courtyard. “That’s stupid. All the dragons are dead.”
Merlin said nothing, but grabbed Mordred’s hand.
“Aren’t they?” the boy asked. “Daddy?”
“I’ll tell you later, Mordred, right now we must go see Tom. He’s the best sword maker in Camelot.”
Mordred nodded and silently followed his father. They quickly reached Gwen’s house and Merlin knocked on the door. Gwen opened the door.
“Hello,” she said cheerily. “To what do I owe the honor of this visit for?”
“We need a sword, Gwen,” Merlin said in a rushed voice.
“Tom’s best sword,” Mordred piped up.
“For Arthur?” she asked.
“Yes, please, hurry.”
Gwen nodded and rushed into her father’s workspace. She came back a few minutes later with a sword wrapped up.
“This is the best sword my father ever made,” she said quietly. “He’s not here right now, but I’m sure he’d love it go to Arthur. I think that’s who he made for anyway.”
“What do you mean Auntie Gwen?” Mordred asked.
“He said he had a dream one night that Arthur might need a great sword someday. He worked all night making it.”
Merlin flipped the cloth the sword was wrapped in aside and gasped. “It’s beautiful.”
“My father will be glad that you think so.”
Merlin shook his head and wrapped the sword back up. He took the sword and Mordred’s hand. “We have to go now. Thank you.”
“No problem!” Gwen called as they left.
****
“Daddy, where are we going now?” Mordred asked. He was holding onto his father’s shirt and hiding from the guards they passed. “The dungeons are scary.”
“We,” Merlin stated, “are going to see a dragon about a sword.”
Mordred’s eyes widened. “There’s a dragon here?”
“Yes. I hope he will help us.”
“Why wouldn’t he?”
Merlin looked at Mordred. “He hates Uther for locking him up.”
“Oh. That’s a good reason. Doesn’t he like Arthur though?”
“He does indeed like Arthur. He says Arthur will be a great king someday.”
“Will you become a great queen then?”
“What? No, I’ll be his advisor.”
“Being queen sounds better,” Mordred muttered.
“Stay behind me,” Merlin whispered as they turned a corner.
Mordred stared around the cave in wonderment. It’s huge! he thought.
Yes it is little one, a strong voice thought back to him. More room for me to fly in.
Mordred heard a chain rattle and saw a huge bronze dragon land on a piece of land in front of them.
“That was sarcasm, I’m assuming,” Mordred said to the dragon.
“Correct.” The dragon turned his attention to Merlin. “You brought the boy.”
“That’s not why I came,” Merlin responded.
“What can I do for you, young warlock?”
Merlin drew Tom’s sword out and held it out in front of him. “Arthur is going to fight a wraith tomorrow. I need you to forge this sword with your flame so he can win.”
The dragon looked at the sword. Then he glanced at Mordred.
“What about you little one?” the dragon asked.
“What?” Mordred squeaked.
“Do you want Arthur to live?”
“Yes,” Mordred didn’t even hesitate.
The dragon blinked and then grinned. “Throw the sword into the air, young warlock.”
Merlin did as he was told. The dragon spit out a flame, which grabbed the sword and held it in mid-air for a few minutes. The sword then drifted back into Merlin’s hands.
“Only Arthur Pendragon may wield that sword. Do you understand me?” the dragon asked.
Merlin nodded. “Thank you. Thank you so much.”
“Anything for young love,” the dragon replied as he flew away.
“Are all dragons that strange Daddy?” Mordred asked.
“I think it’s only this one,” Merlin said. He grabbed Mordred’s hand and pulled him away from the cave. He had to get this sword to Arthur.
****
Mordred was looking at the sword in his room. Merlin had hid it there and planned to give it to Arthur the day of the fight.
“Hey Daddy,” Mordred called. “There’s writing on here. I can’t read it though.”
Merlin came over and looked at the sword. He reached a hand out and swiped his fingers over the words. “Take me up.” He flipped the sword over and read, “Cast me away.”
“Wow, that was amazing Daddy! How’d you do that?”
“Um, I don’t know. I just could.”
“Your magic is so fantastic,” Mordred said, eyes shining. He looked at the sword again. “What does it mean though?”
“I don’t know.”
“MERLIN!” Arthur yelled from his bedroom.
“Hurry, hid it!” Merlin exclaimed. “I want to give it to him the day of the fight!”
“Why?” Mordred asked.
“It’s a feeling! Now, hurry!”
Mordred nodded, threw the cloth over the sword and ran with it to his bed. He shoved the sword under his bed, then jumped into bed.
“I’m ready for bed Daddy!” he called out.
Arthur opened the door to Mordred’s room and peaked in. “Can I come in?”
Mordred nodded. Arthur stepped in further. He looked around the room and at Merlin. “What are you two hiding?”
“Nothing!” Merlin shouted. “Why would you think that?”
“You’re acting shifty,” Arthur said as he stepped closer to Merlin.
“Daddy’s always shifty. It’s the pressure of hiding his magic,” Mordred stated.
“Oh. Merlin, you can’t hid things like that from me,” Arthur said softly.
Merlin opened his mouth to protest, but thought better of it. “Okay. I’ll tell you next time.”
“Good. Now, let’s wish our son goodnight and go to bed. I have to train in the morning.”
Merlin winced. He came over and kissed Mordred on the head. “Sleep well.”
“I will, Daddy.”
Arthur stepped up to Mordred and ruffled his hair. “Good night Mordred. Call if you need us.”
“I will.”
Merlin turned down all the lights, but one. He smiled as Arthur took his hand. They looked back at Mordred, who had lain down and closed his eyes. Arthur shut the door silently behind him as they left.
****
Mordred sat bolt upright in his bed, sweat pouring down his face. He climbed out of bed, but his legs were unsteady under him and he fell. He took a deep breath and pulled himself back up. He then made his way carefully across the room and to the door. Mordred tried to open the door, but he was too weak. He began to pound on it and call out.
“Daddy! Arthur!” he cried.
The door opened a little bit and Mordred stumbled back and fell again. Merlin’s head came around the door.
“Daddy,” Mordred whimpered.
“Mordred!” Merlin cried out. “What happened?”
“I had a nightmare. I don’t want to sleep alone anymore,” Mordred was breathing fast.
“All right, all right, just relax,” Merlin soothed his son.
“I’ve got him,” Arthur said as he scooped Mordred up.
Merlin shut Mordred’s bedroom door firmly and followed Arthur to bed. He walked around to the right side and climbed in. Arthur put Mordred gently down in the middle of the bed and got in next to him.
“There,” Arthur said, “now Merlin and I can protect you.”
Mordred whimpered again and grabbed a fistful of blanket. “Even from things in my head?”
“Especially from things in your head. Isn’t Merlin the best warlock ever?”
Mordred nodded.
“And aren’t I the best warrior ever?”
Mordred nodded again.
“Then, have no fears. We’ll take care of you.”
“Okay,” Mordred murmured as he drifted off to sleep.
“You’re a good father Arthur,” Merlin said as he ran a hand over Mordred’s forehead.
“So are you Merlin,” Arthur responded. He placed a hand over Mordred’s chest.
Soon all three were fast asleep.
****
“Uh, Daddy?” Mordred said uncertainly.
“Yes?” Merlin responded. He was cleaning Arthur’s armor with his own hands and no magic.
“That black knight is standing outside the window. It’s like he’s looking up here.”
“What?” Merlin rushed to the window and looked out.
The black knight was indeed standing under Arthur’s window, staring straight at it. He had his sword in his hands and placed under him, like a third leg. People usually milled around, but everyone was gone for fear of the black knight.
“What should we do?” Mordred asked, biting his lip.
“I’ll take care of it.”
“Arthur will know. He might be stupid, but he’s not blind.”
“Arthur’s not stupid.”
Mordred blinked at Merlin.
“Ok, he’s stupid sometimes. He still has a pratish nature.”
Mordred giggled. He glanced out the window once more. “Oh!” he said. “I have to go!”
“Going to try to kill Arthur once more?”
“I’m teaching him to dodge, Daddy. He’ll need all the help he can get at this point,” Mordred said seriously.
“Don’t I know it. Well, hurry,” Merlin flapped his hands at Mordred. “Go help him dodge. But-”
“Make sure no one is around. I know, Daddy,” Mordred rolled his eyes as he left.
Merlin heaved a deep sigh. “Kids.”
****
Later that night, Arthur stood at his bedroom window and stared at the black knight. He felt something brush his hand and glanced down. It was Mordred.
“You should be in bed,” he told his son.
“Daddy said he’d take care of the black knight. I want to see how.”
Arthur sighed and picked Mordred up. “There. Now you have a better view.”
They were silent for a while. Suddenly, the black knight burst into flames. Mordred gasped while Arthur stared in shock. The flames went down slowly. The black knight was still standing.
“Damn it,” Arthur swore.
“You’ll win,” Mordred said. “You are the best warrior after all.”
“Thank you Mordred.”
****
After Merlin came back to their rooms, they decided to put Mordred to bed for good this time.
“It’s still early,” Mordred protested.
“Mordred,” Merlin began.
“I know, I know. You want some alone time,” Mordred said disgusted.
Arthur laughed as he carried Mordred into the boy’s bedroom and put him on the bed.
“Morgana has told you a story, Gwen has hugged and kissed you, and Merlin and I have put you to bed once. It’s time you go to sleep,” Arthur stated.
“Fine, but I demand that you re-tuck me in,” Mordred replied.
Merlin chuckled. “You are just like Arthur.”
Mordred scowled as Merlin pulled the covers up over him. Merlin kissed Mordred’s forehead.
“Sleep well, Mordred.”
“I will Daddy.”
Arthur sat next to Mordred and instead of ruffling his hair, like usual, the prince leaned over and kissed Mordred’s forehead, just as Merlin had.
Merlin drew in a sharp breath. Mordred stared at Arthur in shock.
Arthur smiled at the boy softly, “Good night Mordred. Call if you need us.” Then he got up from the bed, kissed Merlin, and walked into his bedroom.
As soon as he was gone, Mordred started to cry. Merlin went over to him and hugged him.
“It’s ok. I know you don’t like being touched by Arthur,” Merlin murmured.
“It’s not that Daddy,” Mordred cried into his father’s chest.
“What is it then?”
“Arthur thinks he’s going to die and he wanted me to know how much he loves me even if he thinks I hate him!” Mordred began to cry harder.
Merlin felt his own eyes well up. “Arthur will not die. Do you hear me?”
“Yes Daddy.”
“Good. Now, take a deep breath, lay down and close your eyes.”
Mordred did as he was told. “I’ll call if I need you.”
Merlin smiled, “You do that.”
He turned down all the lights, but one, and shut the door behind him as he left Mordred’s room. Merlin leaned against the door and took a deep breath.
Arthur better not die, Merlin thought viciously.
****
Merlin walked carefully into the dragon’s lair. “Uh, hi,” he said.
The dragon growled at him. “Uther touched that sword.”
“It was an accident. Uther knocked Arthur out and took his place. Uther might be crazy about magic, but he does love Arthur.”
The dragon growled again. Merlin flinched.
“You must get rid of the sword, lest Uther does evil things with it,” the dragon commanded.
“You said Arthur needed it!”
“Then hide it! Just don’t let Uther use it!” the dragon bellowed.
Merlin flinched again and left. Mordred was waiting for him at the top of the stairs, scowling.
“Stupid dragon,” he grumbled.
Merlin clapped Mordred’s shoulder. “Come on. I know the perfect place to put the sword.”
****
“Daddy,” Mordred said incredulously. “It’s a lake. How is that a good place to hide a sword?”
“Trust me,” Merlin replied. He held the sword, which was wrapped up in cloth. He unwrapped it and waded into the lake. Merlin carefully placed the sword into the lake and came back out.
“Arthur’s going to want to know why you’re wet,” Mordred said as he stared into the lake.
“We.”
“What?”
“Why we’re wet.”
“I’m not wet.”
“Not yet.” Merlin pushed Mordred gently.
Mordred lost his balance and landed in the lake. He glared at Merlin. “Daddy.”
Merlin grinned back at him. “You saw a frog. I tried to help you get it. You fell over.”
“Now I know how Arthur feels all the time,” Mordred sulked as Merlin helped him up.
“You are alike you know,” Merlin said.
Mordred scowled, but said nothing.
****
Some months passed with little to no trouble. Mordred resumed his sneak attacks on Arthur, however, they seemed to be more elaborate than usual.
“Why,” Merlin questioned his son, “did four swords come rushing at Arthur and then after he dodged those, a suit of armor came swinging towards him?”
Mordred huffed, “I’ve told you Daddy! Arthur needs to be more alert if Grandpa Uther and Grandpa Gaius could trick him so easily. Besides, I like that suit of armor.”
Merlin sighed and resumed watching Arthur’s armor and weapons clean themselves. The door banged open and everything fell to the floor with a clatter. Gwen winced at the sound.
“Merlin,” she panted.
“What is it Gwen? Is it Morgana? Arthur?”
“No, it’s your mother.”
“Grandmother?” Mordred asked happily. He raced from the room and called for Morgana. Aunt Morgana! Where’s grandmother?
…In the throne room, she replied.
I’m coming!
****
Mordred skidded to a stop at the door to the throne room and ran inside. He could hear Merlin and Gwen running after him. He saw a woman talking to Uther and Arthur, he knew that was his grandmother.
“Grandmother!” Mordred called.
She turned around and stared at him. However, when he threw himself at her, she caught him in a hug.
“Mordred!” Merlin called. “You know better than to run through the castle.”
“But it’s grandmother, Daddy!”
“Mother,” Merlin said fondly. He came up and kissed her cheek.
“Merlin.” She wrapped him in a hug as well.
“Mother, this is Arthur, my lover,” Merlin pointed at the prince. “I see you’ve met him and Morgana. This is Gwen, my friend.”
“Please to meet you, Gwen. I’m Hunith.” She let go of Mordred and Merlin and shook Gwen’s hand. She then turned to Uther.
“Yes, now that that’s out of the way. I am deeply sorry, Hunith, but I cannot help you. Your village is outside of Camelot’s borders. If I send any men, it could be seen as an act of war,” Uther said.
“I see,” Hunith replied sadly. “I thought that might have been, but I had to try. Thank you, your majesty.” She bowed.
Uther nodded his head and Hunith left. Merlin took Mordred’s hand and followed his mother.
“Well, go on Arthur. Your mother-in-law needs help,” Uther said absently as he glanced over a request form.
Arthur grinned widely and jogged after Merlin. Morgana and Gwen left quietly and quickly. They all met outside the throne room.
“Gaius’ rooms?” Morgana asked.
Arthur nodded and they set off.
****
“Mother, why do you have a bruise on your face?” Merlin asked as Gaius treated Hunith’s bruise.
The door to Gaius’ rooms opened quietly as Arthur, Morgana, and Gwen came in. Hunith smiled at them as she replied to Merlin, “The village is under attack from some bandits. Our king won’t do anything about it so I thought I’d ask King Uther.” She paused looking at Mordred, who was sitting by her legs, hugging them. “I didn’t think I’d gain a grandson and a son-in-law all in one day though.”
“Er,” Merlin said.
“You can tell me later. I must get back to the village to tell them the news,” Hunith said gently.
“We’ll go with you,” Morgana spoke up.
“Morgana,” Arthur rebuked her. “You and Gwen can’t come. Merlin and I will go. Merlin’s magic should be enough to take care of any bandits.”
Hunith blinked. “So he knows everything?” she asked her son.
Merlin flushed and nodded.
“I’m coming too!” Mordred exclaimed. “I want to see Ealdor.”
“I won’t allow it!” Arthur declared. “You will stay here with Morgana and Gwen.”
Mordred glared at Arthur. “No, I won’t. I want to protect grandmother with my magic too!”
“Well,” Hunith said lightly. “That will be an interesting tale to tell along the way, won’t it Mordred?”
“Yes,” Mordred nodded as he shot a triumphant look at Arthur.
“Hunith…” Arthur started.
“I would appreciate all the help you can give, Prince Arthur. In my village, everyone helps to protect it, especially women and children since we don’t have many men left,” Hunith cut him off.
Merlin grinned as Arthur winced. It was hard to tell Hunith no when she was so capable and strong.
“We should leave now, to get a head start. It will take at least a day to get there,” Merlin said. “We’ll go pack. Mother, just stay here and rest.”
Hunith nodded and watched the five of them leave. She turned to Gaius. “What has been going on?” she asked.
Gaius laughed. “It’s a long story.”
PART 3
Merlin walked into his new room and went towards the table near the fireplace. Arthur followed, but sat on the bed.
“Shall we get ready for bed?” Arthur asked.
“We need to talk,” Merlin responded.
“I know you can talk and work at the same time, you do it enough in the mornings getting me ready.”
Merlin made a face at his lover. “Fine. Shall I undress you?”
“No. Just talk.”
Merlin jerked his head back a little in surprise. Arthur always wanted Merlin to undress him.
“Talk about what?”
“How you started using magic.”
“Well,” Merlin started. He sat at the table, his back to the fireplace, and his hands on the table. “I was born with it. I never knew my father and mother never talks about him, so I can only assume that I got my magic from him. Mother said I first used magic when I was one. She was standing on a chair, trying to get something from a high shelf. I was sitting on the floor playing, she said. The chair wobbled and mother began to fall, so I stopped her.”
“Stopped her?” Arthur’s voice was muffled as he pulled his shirt off.
“Yeah, I don’t know how I did it, but she paused in mid-air. She said I put her down gently on the floor and got what she needed off the top shelf. Mother said I once tried to use magic in the middle of town, but she stopped me before anyone could see.”
Arthur looked up from pulling off his shoes. “Magic isn’t illegal in your kingdom.”
“She didn’t want anyone to be afraid of me. Anyway, my friend Will learned about it one day when I saved him from falling out of a tree. He swore not to tell anyone.”
Merlin saw Arthur scowl and throw his shoes aside. “You don’t need to be jealous. Will is practically my brother, we grew up together, thinking about being with him romantically makes me kind of ill.”
“I’m not jealous,” Arthur muttered. He reached for his pants and said, “Go on.”
“There’s not much more to tell. I did magic for Mother and Will, but it was never on purpose, it was always accidental. Mother sent me here to help Gaius, but really Gaius has helped me.” Merlin chuckled, “I even saved Gaius on my first day.”
“Really?”
“He was falling, I pushed a bed under him. For the longest time, my magic only came out when people needed my help. Now, I can kill people with it. I don’t like doing it, but I will.”
“Merlin,” Arthur said coming closer to his lover.
“If I have to kill people to keep you safe, I will. I killed Lady Helen to save you.”
Arthur grabbed Merlin’s hands off the table and turned the warlock to face him. “From what you told me and what I know, you’ve only used your magic for good. I know father is wrong.” Arthur paused then said, “Magic is like a sword.”
“What?” Merlin blinked.
“It depends on who wields it. Some use it for good and some use it for evil.”
Merlin wasn’t sure if he wanted to cry in happiness, relief, pride in Arthur’s statement or kiss Arthur senseless. “Arthur…”
Arthur leaned in and kissed Merlin. He pulled back and rested his head against Merlin’s. “I’m sure father has his reasons for hating magic, but I think I’ve found mine for liking it. You and Mordred.”
Merlin grinned. “I knew you’d come around. You’re going to make a great king.”
Arthur raised an eyebrow while getting up from the table. “If I slip up every now and then, I expect you to take me to task.”
“As if I’d ever let the chance to yell at you go.”
Arthur laughed. “Figures. Why don’t you get ready for bed? I know there is still more to discuss, but I’m tired.”
Merlin shook his head, “Sometimes you are such a prat.”
“Yeah, yeah, I’ve heard it all before.” Arthur got into bed, on the right side. He watched Merlin change and asked, “When did Mordred start calling you daddy?”
“I said he should call me something, so Uther didn’t see through our plan. I thought he would call me father, but he asked what little kids call their dads. I didn’t really know, but I remembered Will calling his father ‘daddy’, so it’s what I said. I was shocked when he called me daddy. He’s not that young, but if it’s what he wants, I’ll let him do it.”
“How old is he?”
“Nine.”
“We’ll have to have a birthday party for him when he turns ten.”
“If he even knows his birthday.”
“We’ll give him one,” Arthur said with a scowl.
Merlin smiled and crawled into bed next to Arthur. Arthur put his arms around Merlin and pulled him closer.
“You are a good father,” Merlin said as he rested his head on Arthur’s chest.
“I wonder if he’ll call me anything?” Arthur asked. Arthur looked down at Merlin and saw he was already asleep. Arthur smiled softly and closed his eyes as well. Tomorrow would bring new things to deal with. I do hope he calls me something other than Arthur someday, Arthur thought as he drifted off to sleep. It would be nice.
****
Two months passed for the new family without anything terrible happening. Then, all of a sudden, whenever Merlin was anywhere near Arthur, weapons flew off walls and tried to kill Arthur. People began to wonder if the powers above were against the union of the prince and his servant.
****
“Damn it,” Arthur cursed as he strode down the hallway. His father and some advisors had pulled him into a meeting where they had tried to convince him to break up with Merlin. After staring at them in shock, he yelled at them, and left.
“Telling me whom I can and cannot marry,” he spat.
Guards and servants who he walked past, moved aside. They all knew not to get in the way of the angry prince.
“Merlin!” he yelled as he threw open his bedroom door. “MERLIN!”
Merlin came running out from Mordred’s bedroom, looking frazzled. “What? Did something happen to someone?”
“Yes. Me.”
Merlin rushed over and began to look Arthur over. Finding no visible injuries, he quickly began to feel the prince up.
“As much as I enjoy this,” Arthur drawled. “I am not injured.”
“Then what happened to you?” Merlin sighed. He had worked himself into a tizzy thinking his lover was hurt.
“Father and his advisors suggested I end my relationship with you!” Arthur fumed.
“Because of the flying weapons?” Merlin asked.
“Yes, because of the flying weapons trying to kill me. They think the powers above don’t want our relationship to work.”
Merlin frowned and bit his lip. He glanced at Mordred, who had followed him. The boy had his eyes squinted up and was looking past them. Mordred is concentrating very hard on something, Merlin thought.
Suddenly, an axe from Arthur’s personal collection came flying towards them. Arthur pushed Merlin out of the way and fell on top of him. The axe headed straight towards Mordred, who was staring in shock. Merlin muttered a spell and the axe fell to the ground halfway between the boy and his fathers.
“Mordred,” Merlin questioned. “Did you make that axe fly?”
“No,” Mordred replied, looking Merlin right in the eyes.
Arthur stood up and helped Merlin up. He walked towards the axe and picked it up. He stared at Mordred, who looked right back. Arthur smirked and ruffled the boy’s hair.
“Mordred,” Merlin stated. “Do not lie to me. Have you been trying to kill Arthur?”
“Yes,” Mordred huffed.
“It’s fine,” Arthur said. He put the axe back where it came from. “It’s made me good at dodging, so there’s no harm done.”
“Arthur!” Merlin exclaimed. “He can’t go around thinking it’s ok to use magic in front of others to kill his father!”
Arthur came and stood next to Merlin. He put an arm over his shoulders and kissed his head. “What should we do?”
Merlin grinned at Arthur, then looked at Mordred. Mordred gulped, he didn’t like that look.
****
Morgana tilted her head to the side, as she walked by the stables. “Mordred, what are you doing?” she asked.
“Cleaning up after Arthur’s horse. And all the other horses. Without magic,” the boy growled.
“Why?”
“He tried to kill me with flying weapons,” Arthur said from behind her. He was carrying a basket full of food. “Merlin thought it would be good punishment.”
“For using magic or trying to kill you?”
“Both. Personally, I feel trying to kill me isn’t that big of a deal. Father seemed to try do to it for my training. Mordred is just helping me train.”
Morgana blinked at her brother. “Arthur, sometimes, you are very strange.”
Arthur grinned at her. He then went into the stables and set the basket down. “The cooks made you some things to eat.”
“Daddy said I couldn’t have a snack,” Mordred replied. He had his back to the prince and was scooping up hay and anything else that happened to be on the ground.
“What Merlin doesn’t know, won’t hurt him,” Arthur said with a smile.
Morgana scoffed, “I’m leaving now, before I get into trouble.” She waved at them both as she left.
Arthur stared at Mordred’s back. “If you don’t want it, that’s fine. Just remember to give it to someone less fortunate than you, ok?”
Mordred nodded. He waited until he heard Arthur leave, then turned around to inspect the basket.
“All my favorites,” he muttered. He looked around, checking for Arthur or Merlin, and began to eat.
****
Arthur watched from the shadows of the stable as Mordred ate the food he had given him. He grinned, someday he’d get that boy to like him, and if it had to be through food, then it would be.
****
Soon, the castle became filled with new sounds. Sounds of weapons falling to the floor, sounds of Merlin yelling at Mordred, and sounds of Arthur laughing. The older servants were quite pleased with that last sound, as it had been many years since their prince laughed so openly.
“He does sound quite happy,” Gaius remarked one day to Merlin while they were in Gaius’ rooms.
“I like to think Mordred and I make him happy,” Merlin replied with a blush.
“I believe that you do.”
The door burst open and Mordred came running in, with Arthur right behind him. Arthur had a scratch on his face and Mordred was scowling.
“Mordred!” Merlin yelled. “Did you just try to kill Arthur again?”
“No,” Mordred lied.
“He has a cut on his cheek!” Merlin got up and pulled Arthur into a chair.
“It’s nothing, Merlin,” the prince said.
“Humph, just let Gaius fix you up,” Merlin responded.
“Fine,” Arthur sighed.
Gaius chuckled at them and began to work on the prince’s face.
“Mordred,” Merlin began.
“No one was around!” Mordred cried. “I made sure to check.”
Merlin sighed and put a hand over his face. “That’s not the point. You can’t kill Arthur, he’s your father.”
“No, he’s not,” Mordred muttered.
Arthur jerked his head and Merlin knew he had heard that. Gaius coughed in discomfort. Merlin felt his anger flare up.
“Mordred Pendragon,” Merlin intoned, his eyes flashing gold, “Arthur didn’t have to take you in, he could have turned you in or let you get away. He is much your father as I am, understood?”
Mordred nodded sulkily. Arthur came up next to Merlin and placed a hand on his arm.
“It’s fine,” Arthur laughed. “Mordred and I don’t have much in common, yet, not like you and him. And as for the flying weapons, I need the practice anyway.” He kissed Merlin’s cheek. “Oh, Merlin, father wants to talk to you.”
“About what?” Merlin gulped.
Arthur shrugged and took the warlock’s hand, pulling him towards the door.
Merlin gave Mordred a stern look, then said, “You stay here with Gaius and help him do some work.”
Mordred glared as they walked away. Why does Daddy like that stupid prince more than me? he wondered. The prince can’t even do magic.
Gaius laid a hand on Mordred’s shoulder. “Why don’t you help me by reading the ingredients for me?”
Mordred nodded and began to help his grandfather. I’ll get that prince next time, he thought.
****
Merlin flopped back onto Morgana’s couch and sighed.
“What’s wrong?” asked Morgana as she brushed her hair at her vanity.
“Mordred keeps trying to kill Arthur. And Arthur enjoys it! So does Uther!” Merlin exclaimed in frustration. “I want Mordred to stop, but with Arthur and Uther encouraging it, I don’t think I can.”
Morgana set her brush down and walked over to Merlin, her long dress swishing as she moved. She sat next to the warlock and put a hand on his knee.
“Merlin,” she said seriously, “the Pendragons are utterly and completely strange. When Arthur was young, Uther made him go through vicious training sessions. It was to make him stronger, he said. Arthur once told me that he thought Uther was trying to kill him. Perhaps, this is the only way Uther could show how much he cared for his son, I don’t know.”
“And you think that’s why they both like it so much?” Merlin asked, biting his lip.
Morgana shrugged. “The Pendragons don’t seem to know too much about love. Uther seemed to shut down after his wife died, and I don’t know if Arthur got any proper affection until you came along.”
Merlin blushed and got up from the couch. He walked towards the table in her room and stopped. “I don’t know about that,” he said.
Morgana smiled at his back. “If Arthur doesn’t mind, then don’t make a big deal out of it,” she continued. “Just make sure Mordred knows not to do magic in front of anyone besides us. It will all work out, you know I’m always right.”
Merlin nodded distractedly, while staring at the door.
“Now, get out of here before Gwen comes. I would like some alone time with my lover,” Morgana commanded.
Merlin jumped, blushed even harder and practically ran out the door. Morgana laughed as the door banged shut behind him.
****
A few days passed, with no attempts on Arthur’s life. He was beginning to worry. He walked towards Gaius’ room to pick up Merlin to see if his lover wanted to eat with him. He passed by a tapestry he used to hide behind as a child and glanced at it.
Mordred hid behind the tapestry and waited for Arthur to pass by him. As soon as the Prince came into view and went passed him a little ways, an axe flew towards Arthur. Arthur dodged the axe and then fell to the floor to avoid a dagger that also came flying at him. He checked to make sure nothing else was coming for him, stood up, dusted himself off, and looked in the direction of the tapestry.
“Nicely played. However, I believe you tried that last week as well,” he smirked.
Mordred scowled, as he came out from his hiding spot. “I was hoping to lull you into a false sense of security.”
Arthur threw his head back and laughed. “I knew that letting you come see the knights train was a good thing.” He smiled at his adopted son. “Come, let’s go see how Merlin is coming along.”
“Grandfather Gaius is probably making him clean more bowls,” Mordred stated.
Arthur tried to place a hand on Mordred’s shoulder, however the boy ducked away. Arthur frowned down at him, but let it pass. Mordred felt satisfied, but for a moment, Mordred also felt a twinge of distress. He shook himself lightly and marched ahead of Arthur. I’m going to see Daddy first. Arthur always saw Daddy first, it isn’t fair, Mordred thought.
****
Mordred burst into Gaius’ workspace. “Daddy!” he cried out.
Merlin looked up from his work and smiled as Mordred ran to him and was caught in a hug. “Hello! I see Arthur is with you, no luck today huh?” Merlin asked with a grin. Merlin had decided to accept what Mordred was doing because Arthur seemed to enjoy it. He did make sure Mordred knew when it was acceptable and when it wasn’t.
Mordred scowled. “No. He dodged.”
“Well, it’s what he does best,” Merlin laughed. “Especially since you’ve been helping him train.”
Arthur chuckled from behind them. “He used the same stunt he used last week.”
“Flying axes and daggers? Mordred, you must be careful. Remember, Uther and the guards aren’t supposed to know of your magic.”
“I know Daddy. I made sure it was just him. Even when someone is around they think I’ve used wires or something. The people here are very ignorant.” Mordred saw Arthur frown again. Mordred shifted closer to Merlin.
“Can you go now or is Grandfather Gaius still using you?” the boy asked.
“I am done with him. He’s ruined four medicines today,” Gaius replied grumpily.
“Perhaps Merlin,” drawled Arthur, “medicine isn’t your calling.”
“Oh, shove off,” Merlin said while standing up.
Arthur leaned over and kissed Merlin. “Never.”
Mordred kicked Arthur’s shin and glared up at him. “I’m hungry.”
Arthur grinned and picked him up before he could move away. Merlin beamed, so Mordred suffered through it. Although, it is nice to have such a higher vantage point, Mordred mused. He wouldn’t tell that to Arthur though, then the Prince would always want to carry him. Mordred glanced up thoughtfully and saw the perfect spot to hide a pile of armor or a boulder. Mordred grinned. Arthur wouldn’t see that one coming.
****
Mordred was lying happily on Morgana’s bed, while Merlin and Arthur were off to fight a monster. Morgana was lying next to him, reading him a book. Gwen was humming and milling about the room. She put a vase of flowers on the table and turned to look at them.
“Mordred?” she asked.
“Yes Auntie Gwen,” Mordred replied.
“Why do you hate Arthur so much? He is very nice to you and always tries to help you,” she said. She walked over to the bed and sat on Mordred’s other side.
“He doesn’t like me,” Mordred said sulkily. “He doesn’t want me around.”
“When did Arthur ever say that?” Morgana asked sharply.
“He didn’t have to. He frowned at me and he was thinking how you all could have shipped me off to the druids.”
“He calls you his son and always corrects people when they call you Merlin’s son,” Gwen said kindly. “He even took a turn washing you when you were sick.”
“He did carry him into the wagon and into your house Gwen,” Morgana spoke up. “He honestly doesn’t mind when you try to kill him with sharp things.”
“Pfft, he only does all that because he loves Daddy and wants to keep Daddy happy. I am an afterthought. He always gets to Daddy first and Daddy always hangs out with the prince. He’s just a stupid prince who can’t even do magic!” Mordred yelled. “He doesn’t even like me, let alone love me and consider me his son!”
Gwen raised a hand and smacked Mordred’s cheek. Mordred gasped and turned to look at Morgana, who was looking angry.
“Don’t you ever, ever say Arthur doesn’t love you or consider you his son,” Gwen said furiously. “He loves and adores you, and not just because Merlin does.”
“Mordred, I know the druids told you things about the Pendragons,” Morgana said while taking a deep breath, “but they only apply to Uther now. Arthur has changed his thoughts about magic, not only because of Merlin, but also because of you. He’d do anything to protect you.”
Mordred held the cheek where Gwen slapped him and bit his lip. He felt his eyes begin to tear up. He was shocked Gwen had hit him, Morgana had always told him she wouldn’t hurt a fly.
“Oh, Mordred,” Gwen whispered. She reached out and hugged him tightly. “This will all make sense someday,” she said into his hair. “You just have to believe in your fathers.”
“Why don’t you spend the night here, with Gwen and I?” Morgana suggested. “I’ll make sure Merlin and Arthur know you’re here when they get back.”
Mordred nodded into Gwen’s shoulder. He was really tired all of a sudden. He fell asleep with both of his aunts wrapped around him.
****
Mordred awoke to muffled shouting. He sat up groggily and rubbed his eyes. At the other end of Morgana’s bedroom, Arthur was shouting quietly at Gwen.
“You hit him? How could you?” he asked.
Gwen sighed. “I already told you, he said something horrible. I was just making a point.”
“A point! A point!” Arthur’s voice rose, but he was shushed by Merlin.
Arthur looked towards the bed, but didn’t seem to see that Mordred was awake.
“It’s because of my drapes,” Morgana said quietly from beside him.
Mordred jumped. “What do you mean?”
“The drapes around the bed are pretty thick. You should go back to listening,” Morgana said slyly.
Mordred flushed, but turned his attention towards Arthur and Gwen.
“Don’t you ever hit my son again,” Arthur said ferociously. “I don’t care if you are my sister-in-law, I won’t allow anyone to hit my son.”
Mordred blinked at the scene. “He really feels like that?” he asked.
Morgana nodded. “Go back to sleep, Arthur will rant for a long time before Merlin can calm him down.”
Mordred laid back down next to Morgana, but it took him awhile before he fell asleep. Perhaps, Arthur isn’t all that bad, he thought as he finally drifted off to sleep.
****
Merlin sighed as he stood next to a fidgeting Mordred. “Mordred, please stop moving,” he said.
“This is an annoying outfit,” the boy scowled and tugged at his collar.
“I know, but this is Arthur’s big day, so we must act proper.”
“Fine,” the boy huffed.
Arthur came up to them then and put a hand on each of their shoulders. “How are we doing?” the prince asked.
“Horrible,” Mordred sulked.
“Mordred,” Merlin chastised.
Arthur just laughed. “I hate wearing this too, but it is a formal event, so we must suffer through it.”
“Arthur always ruined his clothes anyway when he was younger,” Morgana said, coming up behind them. Gwen was next to her a new dress. Merlin raised an eyebrow and Gwen blushed.
“I didn’t have to wear them anymore if they were ruined,” Arthur grinned.
Uther waved a hand at Arthur from across the room.
“Well, look like it is time for the ceremony,” Arthur said excitedly. “Just stand here and look pretty.”
“Who?” asked Morgana slyly.
“Why all of you of course.” Arthur kissed Morgana’s cheek, kissed Gwen’s hand, ruffled Mordred’s hair and kissed Merlin on the lips before jogging to his place.
Merlin watched as Arthur walked calmly down the long banquet hall, towards his father. Once Arthur was directly in front of his father, he knelt down on one knee.
“We are gathered here today to see Prince Arthur become Crown Prince Arthur,” Uther said loudly so everyone in the room could hear him. “He has worked hard to become a good prince and will continue on doing so.” Uther reached next to him and brought up a small crown. He then placed the crown on Arthur’s head. Arthur stood up and faced everyone else in the room.
“I present you with Crown Prince Arthur!” Uther yelled.
Everyone cheered as Arthur beamed. Suddenly, the doors to the banquet hall slammed open and a knight wearing all black and riding a black horse came inside. People began to mutter and move away from him in fear. He rode right up towards Uther and Arthur. Merlin pushed Mordred behind him and made to move towards Arthur. Morgana held him back.
“I don’t think he’ll do anything here,” she whispered.
Merlin scowled, but nodded.
The black knight pointed at Arthur, then dropped his glove. Arthur bent to pick it up, but a young knight stepped in faster and scooped the glove up.
“I will fight you,” he said.
“Sir Elwynn, no. He challenged me,” Arthur said.
“And I am challenging him. You were just crowned and I am your knight. It is my duty to protect you,” Elwynn replied.
The knight said nothing. He turned his horse around and rode out of the banquet hall.
Merlin watched as the black knight rode away. There’s something strange about him, he thought.
****
“Must I watch the tournament?” Mordred whined, as Merlin helped him into his formal wear.
“Yes, it’s important to Arthur,” Merlin replied while fixing his own clothes. “These are more annoying than that stupid outfit with the hat Arthur made me wear.”
“What?” Mordred asked.
“I was being mean to him to hide my feelings,” Arthur said as he entered the room. “You two look great, let’s go.”
“Hide your feelings, ha! You were just being a prat!” Merlin responded.
“Maybe, maybe not,” Arthur grinned cheekily.
Mordred rolled his eyes and made a face. Adults are so gross.
The three of them made their way down the hallway and ran into Gwen and Morgana. Morgana looked ill.
“Are you all right Aunt Morgana?” Mordred questioned.
“Yes, just nightmares,” she bit her lip before saying, “I have a bad feeling about the tournament.”
Merlin’s eyes widened and he looked at Gwen, who nodded.
Was it one of those dreams Daddy? Mordred thought out to Merlin.
Yes, Merlin thought back. The warlock turned to Arthur. “Perhaps, we ought to stay in today.”
“Nonsense,” Arthur scoffed. “Morgana’s always had crazy dreams. We must hurry or else father will yell at all of us.”
With that, Arthur grabbed Merlin and Mordred’s hands and led them outside and to the tournament ring. Gwen who was helping Morgana walk, trailed behind them.
****
Merlin winced as Elwynn was knocked back onto the ground. “He’s not a strong as the black knight, is he?” Merlin asked Arthur quietly.
“No,” Arthur replied grimly.
“Is he going to die?” Mordred questioned.
“Probably,” Uther said. “But that was his choice. We all must make that choice at some point.”
Merlin looked over at Gwen and Morgana. Morgana was hiding her face in Gwen’s shoulder, while Gwen watched the combat.
“I hope Morgana feels better,” Merlin said.
“She will. She always does,” Arthur said distractedly.
Suddenly, the black knight kicked Elwynn’s feet out from under him. Elwynn’s sword went flying from his hand. Elywnn fell to the ground and was unable to get to his sword in time. The black knight brought his own black sword up and thrust it into Elwynn’s chest. The crowd gasped in shock.
Merlin tried to hid Mordred’s face, but Uther had already done it. The black knight walked up to them and threw his glove down again. Arthur jumped out of his seat, but Uther held his son back. Another knight picked up the glove.
“I, Sir Hector, will fight you,” the knight said.
“Hector!” Arthur yelled. He tugged his arm free of his father’s grip.
“My lord, like Elwynn said, it is my duty.” Hector bowed to Uther and Arthur. He then half-bowed to the black knight. “Tomorrow we shall fight.”
****
The next day, Merlin flinched as the black knight landed a killing blow on Hector. The black knight threw his glove down once more, and Arthur jumped out of his seat and grabbed it before anyone else.
Arthur growled, “That’s it. I’m fighting!”
“Arthur, you can’t,” Uther declared.
“I can beat him. I can beat anyone!” Arthur yelled. He threw the glove back to the black knight. “In two days, we fight.”
The black knight nodded and left the arena.
“Are you sure you can beat him?” Merlin asked worriedly.
“Yes,” Arthur said determinedly.
****
Merlin blinked at Gaius. It had been four hours since Arthur agreed to fight the black knight and Merlin was desperate for a way to help his lover. “What do you mean the black knight is already dead?”
“Uther and I had a suspicion, so I checked it out during the fight. The black knight is Uther’s deceased brother-in-law, Tristan de Bois.”
“What? How is that possible?”
“Magic, obviously.” Gaius grabbed a book from his shelf and threw it down on the table. Merlin came over and watched as Gaius flipped through the books pages. “Here,” the old man pointed. “A wraith. Someone raised him from the dead for revenge.”
“Why would Tristan want revenge on Arthur?”
“Not Arthur, Uther.”
“What?”
“Tristan believed Uther killed his wife, Ygraine.”
“Did he?”
Gaius shrugged uncomfortably. “We must find out who did it and stop Tristan and the one who raised him.”
“Nimueh, obviously,” Mordred spoke up from under the table.
Merlin and Gaius jumped.
“How long have you been there young man?” Gaius asked.
“Long enough to hear the whole conversation,” Mordred replied as he crawled out from under the table and sat on the bench.
“How do you know about Nimueh?” Merlin questioned his son.
“Auntie Gwen told me about her as a bedtime story. Well,” the boy paused, “I think she was really telling me about you getting poisoned and Arthur saving you, but Nimueh was more interesting.”
Gaius sighed. “All right, since we know who it is, we must find a way to stop him.”
“How do we do that?” Mordred asked.
“Go talk to Geoffrey,” Gaius replied as he turned away. “I’m going to be making…something for Uther.”
“Not Geoffrey,” Mordred whined as Merlin drug him out of Gaius’ workroom. “He always wants me to read things.”
“You like reading,” Merlin said.
“Yeah, interesting stuff, like fighting and magic and dragons. Not boring history stuff.”
Merlin rolled his eyes and muttered, “Kids.”
****
“Only a weapon forged of dragon’s breath can kill a wraith,” Mordred said as he and Merlin walked through the castle courtyard. “That’s stupid. All the dragons are dead.”
Merlin said nothing, but grabbed Mordred’s hand.
“Aren’t they?” the boy asked. “Daddy?”
“I’ll tell you later, Mordred, right now we must go see Tom. He’s the best sword maker in Camelot.”
Mordred nodded and silently followed his father. They quickly reached Gwen’s house and Merlin knocked on the door. Gwen opened the door.
“Hello,” she said cheerily. “To what do I owe the honor of this visit for?”
“We need a sword, Gwen,” Merlin said in a rushed voice.
“Tom’s best sword,” Mordred piped up.
“For Arthur?” she asked.
“Yes, please, hurry.”
Gwen nodded and rushed into her father’s workspace. She came back a few minutes later with a sword wrapped up.
“This is the best sword my father ever made,” she said quietly. “He’s not here right now, but I’m sure he’d love it go to Arthur. I think that’s who he made for anyway.”
“What do you mean Auntie Gwen?” Mordred asked.
“He said he had a dream one night that Arthur might need a great sword someday. He worked all night making it.”
Merlin flipped the cloth the sword was wrapped in aside and gasped. “It’s beautiful.”
“My father will be glad that you think so.”
Merlin shook his head and wrapped the sword back up. He took the sword and Mordred’s hand. “We have to go now. Thank you.”
“No problem!” Gwen called as they left.
****
“Daddy, where are we going now?” Mordred asked. He was holding onto his father’s shirt and hiding from the guards they passed. “The dungeons are scary.”
“We,” Merlin stated, “are going to see a dragon about a sword.”
Mordred’s eyes widened. “There’s a dragon here?”
“Yes. I hope he will help us.”
“Why wouldn’t he?”
Merlin looked at Mordred. “He hates Uther for locking him up.”
“Oh. That’s a good reason. Doesn’t he like Arthur though?”
“He does indeed like Arthur. He says Arthur will be a great king someday.”
“Will you become a great queen then?”
“What? No, I’ll be his advisor.”
“Being queen sounds better,” Mordred muttered.
“Stay behind me,” Merlin whispered as they turned a corner.
Mordred stared around the cave in wonderment. It’s huge! he thought.
Yes it is little one, a strong voice thought back to him. More room for me to fly in.
Mordred heard a chain rattle and saw a huge bronze dragon land on a piece of land in front of them.
“That was sarcasm, I’m assuming,” Mordred said to the dragon.
“Correct.” The dragon turned his attention to Merlin. “You brought the boy.”
“That’s not why I came,” Merlin responded.
“What can I do for you, young warlock?”
Merlin drew Tom’s sword out and held it out in front of him. “Arthur is going to fight a wraith tomorrow. I need you to forge this sword with your flame so he can win.”
The dragon looked at the sword. Then he glanced at Mordred.
“What about you little one?” the dragon asked.
“What?” Mordred squeaked.
“Do you want Arthur to live?”
“Yes,” Mordred didn’t even hesitate.
The dragon blinked and then grinned. “Throw the sword into the air, young warlock.”
Merlin did as he was told. The dragon spit out a flame, which grabbed the sword and held it in mid-air for a few minutes. The sword then drifted back into Merlin’s hands.
“Only Arthur Pendragon may wield that sword. Do you understand me?” the dragon asked.
Merlin nodded. “Thank you. Thank you so much.”
“Anything for young love,” the dragon replied as he flew away.
“Are all dragons that strange Daddy?” Mordred asked.
“I think it’s only this one,” Merlin said. He grabbed Mordred’s hand and pulled him away from the cave. He had to get this sword to Arthur.
****
Mordred was looking at the sword in his room. Merlin had hid it there and planned to give it to Arthur the day of the fight.
“Hey Daddy,” Mordred called. “There’s writing on here. I can’t read it though.”
Merlin came over and looked at the sword. He reached a hand out and swiped his fingers over the words. “Take me up.” He flipped the sword over and read, “Cast me away.”
“Wow, that was amazing Daddy! How’d you do that?”
“Um, I don’t know. I just could.”
“Your magic is so fantastic,” Mordred said, eyes shining. He looked at the sword again. “What does it mean though?”
“I don’t know.”
“MERLIN!” Arthur yelled from his bedroom.
“Hurry, hid it!” Merlin exclaimed. “I want to give it to him the day of the fight!”
“Why?” Mordred asked.
“It’s a feeling! Now, hurry!”
Mordred nodded, threw the cloth over the sword and ran with it to his bed. He shoved the sword under his bed, then jumped into bed.
“I’m ready for bed Daddy!” he called out.
Arthur opened the door to Mordred’s room and peaked in. “Can I come in?”
Mordred nodded. Arthur stepped in further. He looked around the room and at Merlin. “What are you two hiding?”
“Nothing!” Merlin shouted. “Why would you think that?”
“You’re acting shifty,” Arthur said as he stepped closer to Merlin.
“Daddy’s always shifty. It’s the pressure of hiding his magic,” Mordred stated.
“Oh. Merlin, you can’t hid things like that from me,” Arthur said softly.
Merlin opened his mouth to protest, but thought better of it. “Okay. I’ll tell you next time.”
“Good. Now, let’s wish our son goodnight and go to bed. I have to train in the morning.”
Merlin winced. He came over and kissed Mordred on the head. “Sleep well.”
“I will, Daddy.”
Arthur stepped up to Mordred and ruffled his hair. “Good night Mordred. Call if you need us.”
“I will.”
Merlin turned down all the lights, but one. He smiled as Arthur took his hand. They looked back at Mordred, who had lain down and closed his eyes. Arthur shut the door silently behind him as they left.
****
Mordred sat bolt upright in his bed, sweat pouring down his face. He climbed out of bed, but his legs were unsteady under him and he fell. He took a deep breath and pulled himself back up. He then made his way carefully across the room and to the door. Mordred tried to open the door, but he was too weak. He began to pound on it and call out.
“Daddy! Arthur!” he cried.
The door opened a little bit and Mordred stumbled back and fell again. Merlin’s head came around the door.
“Daddy,” Mordred whimpered.
“Mordred!” Merlin cried out. “What happened?”
“I had a nightmare. I don’t want to sleep alone anymore,” Mordred was breathing fast.
“All right, all right, just relax,” Merlin soothed his son.
“I’ve got him,” Arthur said as he scooped Mordred up.
Merlin shut Mordred’s bedroom door firmly and followed Arthur to bed. He walked around to the right side and climbed in. Arthur put Mordred gently down in the middle of the bed and got in next to him.
“There,” Arthur said, “now Merlin and I can protect you.”
Mordred whimpered again and grabbed a fistful of blanket. “Even from things in my head?”
“Especially from things in your head. Isn’t Merlin the best warlock ever?”
Mordred nodded.
“And aren’t I the best warrior ever?”
Mordred nodded again.
“Then, have no fears. We’ll take care of you.”
“Okay,” Mordred murmured as he drifted off to sleep.
“You’re a good father Arthur,” Merlin said as he ran a hand over Mordred’s forehead.
“So are you Merlin,” Arthur responded. He placed a hand over Mordred’s chest.
Soon all three were fast asleep.
****
“Uh, Daddy?” Mordred said uncertainly.
“Yes?” Merlin responded. He was cleaning Arthur’s armor with his own hands and no magic.
“That black knight is standing outside the window. It’s like he’s looking up here.”
“What?” Merlin rushed to the window and looked out.
The black knight was indeed standing under Arthur’s window, staring straight at it. He had his sword in his hands and placed under him, like a third leg. People usually milled around, but everyone was gone for fear of the black knight.
“What should we do?” Mordred asked, biting his lip.
“I’ll take care of it.”
“Arthur will know. He might be stupid, but he’s not blind.”
“Arthur’s not stupid.”
Mordred blinked at Merlin.
“Ok, he’s stupid sometimes. He still has a pratish nature.”
Mordred giggled. He glanced out the window once more. “Oh!” he said. “I have to go!”
“Going to try to kill Arthur once more?”
“I’m teaching him to dodge, Daddy. He’ll need all the help he can get at this point,” Mordred said seriously.
“Don’t I know it. Well, hurry,” Merlin flapped his hands at Mordred. “Go help him dodge. But-”
“Make sure no one is around. I know, Daddy,” Mordred rolled his eyes as he left.
Merlin heaved a deep sigh. “Kids.”
****
Later that night, Arthur stood at his bedroom window and stared at the black knight. He felt something brush his hand and glanced down. It was Mordred.
“You should be in bed,” he told his son.
“Daddy said he’d take care of the black knight. I want to see how.”
Arthur sighed and picked Mordred up. “There. Now you have a better view.”
They were silent for a while. Suddenly, the black knight burst into flames. Mordred gasped while Arthur stared in shock. The flames went down slowly. The black knight was still standing.
“Damn it,” Arthur swore.
“You’ll win,” Mordred said. “You are the best warrior after all.”
“Thank you Mordred.”
****
After Merlin came back to their rooms, they decided to put Mordred to bed for good this time.
“It’s still early,” Mordred protested.
“Mordred,” Merlin began.
“I know, I know. You want some alone time,” Mordred said disgusted.
Arthur laughed as he carried Mordred into the boy’s bedroom and put him on the bed.
“Morgana has told you a story, Gwen has hugged and kissed you, and Merlin and I have put you to bed once. It’s time you go to sleep,” Arthur stated.
“Fine, but I demand that you re-tuck me in,” Mordred replied.
Merlin chuckled. “You are just like Arthur.”
Mordred scowled as Merlin pulled the covers up over him. Merlin kissed Mordred’s forehead.
“Sleep well, Mordred.”
“I will Daddy.”
Arthur sat next to Mordred and instead of ruffling his hair, like usual, the prince leaned over and kissed Mordred’s forehead, just as Merlin had.
Merlin drew in a sharp breath. Mordred stared at Arthur in shock.
Arthur smiled at the boy softly, “Good night Mordred. Call if you need us.” Then he got up from the bed, kissed Merlin, and walked into his bedroom.
As soon as he was gone, Mordred started to cry. Merlin went over to him and hugged him.
“It’s ok. I know you don’t like being touched by Arthur,” Merlin murmured.
“It’s not that Daddy,” Mordred cried into his father’s chest.
“What is it then?”
“Arthur thinks he’s going to die and he wanted me to know how much he loves me even if he thinks I hate him!” Mordred began to cry harder.
Merlin felt his own eyes well up. “Arthur will not die. Do you hear me?”
“Yes Daddy.”
“Good. Now, take a deep breath, lay down and close your eyes.”
Mordred did as he was told. “I’ll call if I need you.”
Merlin smiled, “You do that.”
He turned down all the lights, but one, and shut the door behind him as he left Mordred’s room. Merlin leaned against the door and took a deep breath.
Arthur better not die, Merlin thought viciously.
****
Merlin walked carefully into the dragon’s lair. “Uh, hi,” he said.
The dragon growled at him. “Uther touched that sword.”
“It was an accident. Uther knocked Arthur out and took his place. Uther might be crazy about magic, but he does love Arthur.”
The dragon growled again. Merlin flinched.
“You must get rid of the sword, lest Uther does evil things with it,” the dragon commanded.
“You said Arthur needed it!”
“Then hide it! Just don’t let Uther use it!” the dragon bellowed.
Merlin flinched again and left. Mordred was waiting for him at the top of the stairs, scowling.
“Stupid dragon,” he grumbled.
Merlin clapped Mordred’s shoulder. “Come on. I know the perfect place to put the sword.”
****
“Daddy,” Mordred said incredulously. “It’s a lake. How is that a good place to hide a sword?”
“Trust me,” Merlin replied. He held the sword, which was wrapped up in cloth. He unwrapped it and waded into the lake. Merlin carefully placed the sword into the lake and came back out.
“Arthur’s going to want to know why you’re wet,” Mordred said as he stared into the lake.
“We.”
“What?”
“Why we’re wet.”
“I’m not wet.”
“Not yet.” Merlin pushed Mordred gently.
Mordred lost his balance and landed in the lake. He glared at Merlin. “Daddy.”
Merlin grinned back at him. “You saw a frog. I tried to help you get it. You fell over.”
“Now I know how Arthur feels all the time,” Mordred sulked as Merlin helped him up.
“You are alike you know,” Merlin said.
Mordred scowled, but said nothing.
****
Some months passed with little to no trouble. Mordred resumed his sneak attacks on Arthur, however, they seemed to be more elaborate than usual.
“Why,” Merlin questioned his son, “did four swords come rushing at Arthur and then after he dodged those, a suit of armor came swinging towards him?”
Mordred huffed, “I’ve told you Daddy! Arthur needs to be more alert if Grandpa Uther and Grandpa Gaius could trick him so easily. Besides, I like that suit of armor.”
Merlin sighed and resumed watching Arthur’s armor and weapons clean themselves. The door banged open and everything fell to the floor with a clatter. Gwen winced at the sound.
“Merlin,” she panted.
“What is it Gwen? Is it Morgana? Arthur?”
“No, it’s your mother.”
“Grandmother?” Mordred asked happily. He raced from the room and called for Morgana. Aunt Morgana! Where’s grandmother?
…In the throne room, she replied.
I’m coming!
****
Mordred skidded to a stop at the door to the throne room and ran inside. He could hear Merlin and Gwen running after him. He saw a woman talking to Uther and Arthur, he knew that was his grandmother.
“Grandmother!” Mordred called.
She turned around and stared at him. However, when he threw himself at her, she caught him in a hug.
“Mordred!” Merlin called. “You know better than to run through the castle.”
“But it’s grandmother, Daddy!”
“Mother,” Merlin said fondly. He came up and kissed her cheek.
“Merlin.” She wrapped him in a hug as well.
“Mother, this is Arthur, my lover,” Merlin pointed at the prince. “I see you’ve met him and Morgana. This is Gwen, my friend.”
“Please to meet you, Gwen. I’m Hunith.” She let go of Mordred and Merlin and shook Gwen’s hand. She then turned to Uther.
“Yes, now that that’s out of the way. I am deeply sorry, Hunith, but I cannot help you. Your village is outside of Camelot’s borders. If I send any men, it could be seen as an act of war,” Uther said.
“I see,” Hunith replied sadly. “I thought that might have been, but I had to try. Thank you, your majesty.” She bowed.
Uther nodded his head and Hunith left. Merlin took Mordred’s hand and followed his mother.
“Well, go on Arthur. Your mother-in-law needs help,” Uther said absently as he glanced over a request form.
Arthur grinned widely and jogged after Merlin. Morgana and Gwen left quietly and quickly. They all met outside the throne room.
“Gaius’ rooms?” Morgana asked.
Arthur nodded and they set off.
****
“Mother, why do you have a bruise on your face?” Merlin asked as Gaius treated Hunith’s bruise.
The door to Gaius’ rooms opened quietly as Arthur, Morgana, and Gwen came in. Hunith smiled at them as she replied to Merlin, “The village is under attack from some bandits. Our king won’t do anything about it so I thought I’d ask King Uther.” She paused looking at Mordred, who was sitting by her legs, hugging them. “I didn’t think I’d gain a grandson and a son-in-law all in one day though.”
“Er,” Merlin said.
“You can tell me later. I must get back to the village to tell them the news,” Hunith said gently.
“We’ll go with you,” Morgana spoke up.
“Morgana,” Arthur rebuked her. “You and Gwen can’t come. Merlin and I will go. Merlin’s magic should be enough to take care of any bandits.”
Hunith blinked. “So he knows everything?” she asked her son.
Merlin flushed and nodded.
“I’m coming too!” Mordred exclaimed. “I want to see Ealdor.”
“I won’t allow it!” Arthur declared. “You will stay here with Morgana and Gwen.”
Mordred glared at Arthur. “No, I won’t. I want to protect grandmother with my magic too!”
“Well,” Hunith said lightly. “That will be an interesting tale to tell along the way, won’t it Mordred?”
“Yes,” Mordred nodded as he shot a triumphant look at Arthur.
“Hunith…” Arthur started.
“I would appreciate all the help you can give, Prince Arthur. In my village, everyone helps to protect it, especially women and children since we don’t have many men left,” Hunith cut him off.
Merlin grinned as Arthur winced. It was hard to tell Hunith no when she was so capable and strong.
“We should leave now, to get a head start. It will take at least a day to get there,” Merlin said. “We’ll go pack. Mother, just stay here and rest.”
Hunith nodded and watched the five of them leave. She turned to Gaius. “What has been going on?” she asked.
Gaius laughed. “It’s a long story.”
PART 3