The Fall

 

Book One of The Dark Camelot Chronicles

 

 

 

Mariah Lynde

 

 

Copyright © 2024 Mariah Lynde

Publisher Fae Corps LLC

 

All rights reserved. This book or any portion thereof may not be reproduced or used in any manner whatsoever without the express written permission of the publisher except for the use of brief quotations in a book review.

This is a work of fiction, any references to historical events, real people, or real places are used fictitiously. Names, characters, and places are products of the author’s imagination.

Fae Corps LLC

5415 Raven Dr

Charleston WV 25306

Faecorpspublishing.com

 

 

Editor & Cover art: Patricia Harris

 

 

Dedications and Acknowledgments:

Mom – Thank you for constantly pushing me to keep going.

Raz – For keeping the conversation going and pushing me to do things I swear not to do again.

Christian – For being my purpose for so long. The best son in the world.

Aunt Trina – For the nights of dancing to Roller Derby Queen and building worlds in imagination as we talked about books and ideas.

Stephani - For trying to encourage me to continue doing this and make time for it despite it not really being your thing.

Bobby – For being the best evil twin in the universe.

Nani – For always pushing me to do more with my mind than be a smart aleck.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dear Reader,

                The Fall is a rebirth of sorts. This series began over a decade ago, under a different name with a different publisher.

                Back then, I was a new author, just going through the motions and made mistakes on several different things. As with all things, distance and time brings clarity. I loved the story I was trying to tell, but knew I needed to clean it up.

                The result is that the Vengeance of Avalon series died, and the Dark Camelot series began. I do hope you enjoy this story, as much if not more then what came before.

Thank you,

Mariah Lynde

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter One

Britain

537AD

 

                Sunlight shone on the Isle of Britain as dawn appeared through the thick, foggy morning. The sky slowly began shifting in color from rich, dark purple blues to a brilliant peach color as the sun made itself known once more. Dew danced atop rich leaves of emerald green even as the morning breeze teased the senses with the mingling scents of clover and slowly dying fires.

                These moments, just before the whole of the world began to bustle, seemed like paradise. A majority of the populace were unaware of the truth of such things, said these moments of blissful wakening were magic, sent to earth for the human eye to witness. However, there were many who knew that this was not the case.

                In truth, magic was very real. Yet, the events that were taking place on this sleepy little island situated in what is now known as the Atlantic Ocean would shape the course of humanity for centuries to come. For it is here, among the bogs and mud, the plowed fields and foggy air; that humankind was granted its first true vision of the supernatural.

                Moreover - they became a part of it as attempts were made to join both the mortal and immortal worlds together. Behind the mists, foggy lakes, rolling hills and warring clans the secrets of the primordium existed. Nymphs danced within nature’s free spaces while humankind sought a foothold in finding their place among the landscape. These varying species had been coexisting side by side for thousands of years until a most unlikely event occurred.

                Evolution in its grandest form, gave a single mortal the ability to see beyond the veil. Able to capture glimpses of their supernatural kinfolk on the other side and begin the slow integration of immortals with mortals. In recent years, there had been instances where more creatures were being noticed by mankind. Feats of wonder and magic began to flourish while tales traveled from one corner of the earth to another about these new discoveries.

                As with all things another facet came from these interactions – the blending of the bloodlines between the two sides which produced offspring. It began slowly, but as fate would have it – life found a way. The first of these children were relegated to the shadows - hidden by their parents from any who tried to learn of their existence.

                However, fate always wins out and the children of these pairings became known. It was a new world, these children with their frail mortal bodies and command of the power of immortals were limitless. The blending of more bloodlines began to occur, bringing a heavier touch of magic to the mortal world.

                One of these children was Merlin of the Wyllde, or as he was more simply known later, Merlin. The sorcerer was born of a pairing between one of the Fae and a mortal woman. Both Merlin and his sister were among the first openly accepted halflings that were a product of the blending of bloodlines.

Next there came the Lady Igraine of Talinshal and her sister Viviene of the Isle. These girls twin girls were born to the mortal man known as Lord Trion of Derlant and Lady Rowedha a Fae Priestess to the Goddess Maab who resided on the Isle of Avalon itself.

                The birth of the twins happened exactly twelve years after the birth of Merlin. When he grew into his powers, Merlin was taken to the Isle of Avalon under the mantle of a Fae Battle-Mage by the name of Isandar Grendale. It was during this time that he was schooled in the arts of magic and the ways of the immortal races. At one point he was even sworn into the service of Maab herself as part of the effort to have magic thrive within the mortal world.

                Every one of these events set plans in motion that could not and would not be stopped. Like Merlin, Igraine and Viviene began manifesting their abilities at the age of ten. Blessed by Maab and marked as the Goddess’s chosen - the girls were fated to bring a new generation of magic and immortals to the human realm. It was then that they were taken to the Isle where they met Merlin. From there, fate set to work as all three were then trained together in the ways of the Goddess.

                While these teachings allowed them to work feats and wonders - it paled in comparison to the knowledge they were granted by living on Avalon’s shores. Here, the children came to know the truth which existed in the shadows of their world. They learned these shadows were a place where immortal creatures existed on the fringes of the mortal world. It quickly became clear that despite their similarities to humanity - these creatures were set apart by uncanny strengths and abilities that allowed them to live for eons instead of a cluster of short years like the mortals.

                Training continued for the group of hybrids, and it became clear that all three were touched with different gifts. Merlin showed talent with conjuring and manipulating any of the elements around him. Viviene showed a gift with the casting of spells with immense power and an ability to scry and communicate through water and reflective surfaces.

Then there was Igraine.

                Unlike her sister and Merlin, Igraine’s love for Avalon and its studies offered waned as she dreamed of a simpler life. A life with hearth, home, and children. Igraine was granted the gift of foresight which became her strongest ability. The powers to cast and conjure came later but were weak in comparison to the other two children that occupied Avalon’s shores.

                By the time all three had reached adulthood they were each given a choice. To swear their lives to the followings of the Isle or return to the mortal world and live hidden among them. Igraine was the only one that chose to venture back into the mortal world. To Viviene and Merlin’s surprise, the elders allowed Igraine to do so. It was only after Igraine’s departure that they learned of the dangers in dealing with immortals. Especially those who were seeking a foothold into the mortal world beyond the veil.

                The elders had always known that Igraine would choose to return to the mortal realm. What had not been known was that she would do so with her powers intact. Her abilities in the human world flourished uncontrollably since the veil no longer filtered her visions. A ploy to bring her to the attention of the nobility among the humans, one that worked far better than any would have thought.

                It was only after Igraine’s marriage to Ser Gurlois also known as the Hound of the North, that Merlin was instructed to return to the human world as an envoy between worlds. Maab had set plans in motion that would singlehandedly introduce magic and its wielders to the mortal world on a more permanent basis. Each event ushering in a new facet to humanity that would undoubtedly change things for all creatures in existence. Igraine’s influence and impact spurned Gurlois’s decision to whisk her away to his keep to the North and remove her from the influence of court.

                Igraine’s love for hearth and home flourished, producing three children – all daughters: Morgana, Morgause, and Elaine. Due to the touch of Fae in their bloodline, the girls were all gifted in  the ancient ways like their mother. Of the three, the most blessed was Morgana.

Her abilities began to manifest at an even younger age than her mother and aunt. While Morgause and Elaine were also powerful in their own right – their abilities were limited to specific areas. Morgana’s abilities seemed to encompass the gifts of both her mother and aunt but Merlin’s abilities as well. With so many abilities awakening there was no way to master any specific one of them. This left no option but for Morgana to advance each skill as far as she was able to in her own time.

                Igraine, realizing her daughter’s potential, refused to send Morgana to Avalon at such a youthful age, choosing instead to keep her hidden. A decision that fed easily in the plans of others.

Gurlois, who had been taken by Igraine’s beauty and her abilities in being one of the Fae touched had made him obsessed by his wife. It was this obsession to have his wife’s full attention that made him wary of his daughter and her abilities. It also kept him from interfering with Igraine’s wishes. Choosing instead to plan the bartering of his daughter in marriage to gain standing among peers of the realm. This plan, like all other dominoes, fell.

                Igraine, thinking she had garnered the life she wanted, became plagued by visions of the future. A man with a dragon breathing fire inked into his flesh that would rule the whole of the country. His banner set to fly in every keep and castle that they held within their small corner of the world. Troubled by her visions, and why she seemed to be given such intimate knowledge of the man in her visions caused Igraine to contact her sister, Viviene.

                It was then that Igraine learned of her husband’s plot to barter Morgana and that doing such had sealed his fate.  Fearful of losing her husband, Igraine vowed to trek with him across the kingdom and protect both him and Morgana to stop this future from happening. Her decision only furthered things along.

Upon a meeting of the realm, Igraine and her daughter came under the watchful eye of Uther Pendragon. Known as an upstart Baron that was working to unite the kingdoms under his banner in order to bring humanity into a new age. A reality where living with the immortals could be realized while both the old ways and the religion blossoming out of the lands in the east could co-exist.

                Uther believed in the old ways. He was one of the few mortals who had come from a sect to believe in Maab and otherworldly creatures of the veil. Almost immediately he was enthralled by Igraine and her daughter. It was at this time Merlin’s presence in the human realm became known again. Merlin, under the direction of Maab and the citizens of the Isle of Magic encouraged Uther’s interest in the Lady Igraine.

                Even Fate seemed to smile on the one called Uther because the attraction that Igraine found with the upstart future king was undeniable. He was her fated mate but Igraine, fighting her destiny and her past, remained loyal to Gurlois. Not even that was enough to stop the wheels of time and circumstance.

                Gurlois, recognizing the pull of the ancient magics at work – sequestered his wife and daughters in his northern keep. From there he began to plot on the taking of the throne from the Pendragon by creating a separatist movement among the peasants. With little other choice Gurlois planned for war. Sadly, even the best laid plans could not have accounted for the events which took place.

                Igraine had a vision of the battle to come. She saw her husband sneaking in like a thief in the night and forgoing the honor of battle to kill a man while he slept. Tied as she was to Uther by fate, Igraine could not let such a thing happen. Calling out on the wind, she woke Uther so he could meet Gurlois on the field of battle.

                After warning Uther Igraine took to her bed – sick from the use of her abilities in the mortal world. Others chose this time as an opportunity to further their own goals. Uther marched on the north with Igraine as his soul purpose.

With Merlin’s help, Uther masked his presence to enter the stronghold where Igraine waited for word on the battle. Wearing the guise of Gurlois, he entered the keep and cemented the fated bond between himself and Igraine.

                After helping Uther with his deception, Merlin spent that time learning and studying Morgana, Morgause, and Elaine. By sunset of the following day when the moon of the summer solstice began to rise - the body of Gurlois was escorted back into the keep.

This was Morgana’s first encounter with Maab and the world beyond the veil. Watching her father’s body enter the keep to be prepared for burial even as a man wore Gurlois’ visage took her mother’s hand before transforming before her eyes.

                The family was forever changed. As soon as Gurlois was buried they were taken to the center of the realm where a keep was being constructed for Uther. While his love for Igraine was vast that emotion also extended in some measure to his stepchildren. Morgana, seeing the tie between her mother and Pendragon, warmed to the man slowly. Both Elaine and Morgause saw his favoritism towards their sister and instead begged to be released from his keep.

                It took less than a year for Uther to sire his first child with his beloved Igraine. Morgana accepted this news with great joy while her sisters did not. Morgause and Elaine made constant attempts to undermine the new couple trying to build a kingdom while which brought Merlin to intervene once more.

Under his guidance and counsel, Uther and Igraine were encouraged to send the three girls to the Isle of Avalon to be trained in magic. Thus, allowing for the children to learn of the veil, their powers, and get accustomed to the world that existed just beneath the surface of their own. Meanwhile Uther and Igraine would continue their push towards uniting the kingdom.

                With a heavy heart, Igraine agreed and sent her daughters to her sister, Viviene in order to learn from the other followers of Maab on the Isle. The girls were trained so that they too could be sent back out into the mortal world to serve as bridges between the realms - Morgana most of all. In that time, Igraine bore Uther three children of his own, beginning with a son – Arthur.

                Prophecies began as soon as Arthur drew breath. His birthmark showed him to be blessed by the goddess Maab while also acknowledging his Fae touched heritage.  Unlike the females of his family, Arthur’s abilities seemed to be in his influence over mortals. Even still there was his ability to sway most anyone to his way of thinking or feeling. That influence, whether on a physical, psychic or emotional level, was enough to mark Arthur for training. Despite his parents protests, when a new prophecy was spoken over Arthur building a blessed kingdom, Merlin stepped in to take on the boy as his apprentice.

                Igraine, brokenhearted at having to turn over another of her children, agreed. It quickly became apparent that she had been nothing more than a tool for the council of the Isle of Magic to gain a foothold in the mortal world. Their price for her freedom being her own children to help shape those things which were to come. With Arthur’s natural talent, Igraine had no choice but to send him along with Merlin. There he could train away from the public eye until such time as he returned to take the throne from his father.

                For a brief time, it appeared that all was going to plan. However, even the best laid plans cannot account for the impact of free-will. All creatures, mortal or immortal, were bound to make choices that could not be predicted unless one faced their own trials. It was these choices that would change the course of everything that the council had set in motion.

                One thing that all of them had forgotten was the power that lay in free will. This singular trait among even the humans was what made them so unique and able to thrive under the harshest of circumstances despite their frailty.

                Sadly, it was those choices that were quickly unraveling the hold that magic and the Isle of Avalon had on the mortal world. With Igraine’s children coming of age, the games of politics and power began. Arthur, returned to his father’s kingdom to take the throne after Uther’s death in battle. His lofty goals of creating a peaceful kingdom, a utopia for both mortal and immortal to celebrate and rejoice moved forward. The only thing which derailed that goal was Arthur’s captivation with the human female, Guinevere. An ill-advised relationship further strained with the return of his sister Morgana from Avalon and the attention her presence garnered in Camelot.

                Guinevere, for all her beauty, was an insecure woman by nature. That particular trait was only further aggravated by Morgause when she cursed the woman’s womb.

In the years on the Isle where Morgana and Arthur had been favored pupils staying through to their adulthood, Morgause and Elaine had been released back to the mortal realm. Their powers were considered a mere wink of that which their siblings could accomplish. Jealousy had taken root in both Morgause and Elaine. Each wanting their brother’s throne for themselves and had begun to work towards the goal of eliminating any siblings to legitimize their claim to the throne.

                Yet, all these things remained hidden from the players involved. Which was the reason that now was a time of unrest. This day would be the beginning of a dark chapter in the combined histories of mortals and immortals alike.

                While this history is complex, such knowledge will help one to understand the importance of the events taking place. It will be a guide so that as events unfold, the actions and severity of the follies committed can be weighed and measured. For in the end, there is no greater power than communication with all involved to prevent catastrophe.

                Here is where the story begins. A battlefield just north of Arthur’s keep of Camelot, his seat of power.

Arthur rides out to parlay with his opponent, Arlyiss the Serpent. At his side is his mentor, advisor and companion, Merlin. A sudden silence in the early morning foreshadowing the severity of that which was about to take place. Each rider loping up the hill to bring them to the center of the battlefield.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter Two

                Arthur rode silently towards the top of the hill while Merlin remained silent. The sorcerer had aged decades in a few months. His once dark brown hair showed wisps of silver and his beard was now streaked in varying shades of white and gray. Not for the first time, Arthur wondered if such was the price of magic, or if the sudden affliction was rooted in some other event.

                “Do you believe this is the right thing to do?  We still have not heard from Morgana or Morgause.” Arthur asked silently.

                “Whose fault is that?” Merlin grunted, “You stopped listening to my advice years ago. So what do my opinions matter now, Your Grace?”

                “Why do you insist on speaking in riddles, if you are angry with me, say so.” Arthur grunted.

                “What would be the point?” Merlin sighed, “I raised you as if you were my own. I stay at your side to help you build this utopia of a kingdom you dream of. Yet, at every turn, you disregard any of the advice given.” Merlin grimaced, his fingers curling on his staff. “One can lead a horse to water, Majesty – he cannot force it to drink.”

                “I have not disregarded your advice. I have listened to you voice your thoughts but also had to consider the wisdom and knowledge of others.” Arthur frowned, “You may have the gift of foresight from your relatives, but there is nothing to say that we cannot change what they see. Especially with other people and their feelings involved.”

                “By others, you mean that bride of yours.” Merlin scoffed, “Where was this care for the feelings of others when you followed your dear wife’s advice to marry Morgana off to Urien? Morgana did not want to wed, especially to form an alliance or be Queen.” Merlin scoffed, “Now, her powers serve their kingdom instead of yours. She was meant to be here to help you, Arthur!”

                “Guinevere said…”

                “Guinevere will be the death of you!” Merlin snapped, “The woman is spiteful, jealous, and mean though she has no reason to be. I have told you, time and again, there is no reason for her to fear your closeness with any other, you have been faithful and loyal despite being unable to sire an heir to your chosen wife. Yet, she continues to push and alienate you from those who would help you. The best example is your sister.”

                “My wife said my sister shared my mother’s desire for home and hearth. I had no reason to believe otherwise.” Arthur frowned, “Yet, you are telling me that was not the case.”

                “Even if it had been true, Urien is older than your father would have been! Morgana had already met his son, Yvain. That would have been a better match, not the old king himself.” Merlin frowned, “Guinevere pushed you towards that match, ensuring that for now, Morgana will have no child and heir. As such, even when Urien dies, Morgana could not pursue anything with Yvain or any of the men in that hold. She will be returned here, with no prospects and no viable options for having a true life with a mate of her choice.”

                “I would not let such a thing happen. When she returns I will personally…”

                “Personally, what?” Merlin scoffed, “I taught you everything you know, Boy. From politics, to fighting, sciences and magicks – I offered you knowledge many would kill to understand. All the training in the world, useless to the batting of an eyelash from that viperous little snake you call a wife.” Merlin shook his head, “Morgana would have proven useful on our side. Now, I sense she is drifting further from us.”  

                “You think we are going to be without her in this battle?” Arthur frowned.

                “Most likely, yes. Urien may covet his wife, but the match was not for love. Morgana was devastated that she was sent to him, especially when he wished only to make use of her talents as a sorceress. You more than any other know her beauty is Fae touched, much like your mother. The only person who gained anything in that marriage was Urien and he knows it. You solidified his claim to the east and he uses your sister to hold it.” Merlin frowned.

                “As such, should he not support us in these matters? It was an alliance gained.” Arthur frowned.

                “Support does not mean he or your sister make an appearance to stand at your side. He can just as easily send his men to fight the battle for you while keeping himself and Morgana sequestered in his own lands.” Merlin shook his head, “Word from the East is that he keeps her within his hold. Few see her venture out of the keep. As of the feast of Beltane it is said he takes her nowhere.”

                “Has she contacted you? Viviene? Morgause? Elaine?” Arthur turned his head to look at Merlin carefully, “What are you not telling me?”

                “Not even Igraine has heard from Morgana.” Merlin sighed, “Morgause has responded to no missives in over two years, Viviene keeps reaching out to Morgana but has received no answer. My own missives have returned from Urien’s lands unanswered and unopened. Elaine at least makes an effort and responds sporadically.”

                “This makes no sense, Morgana and I were…”

                “You two were close – she loved you as none of your other siblings did. Agreeing to Guinevere’s petition for marrying off your sister, broke that bond, at least in part.” Merlin frowned, “The only part that I have not figured out, is why she was intent on getting your sister out of Camelot.”

                “You accuse my wife of sedition and treachery.” Arthur’s eyes narrowed on the sorcerer.

                “I accuse her of something, though I am not sure just what that might be.” The sorcerer heaved a slow sigh, shaking his head. “I feel other forces at work here, but it is hard to see their mark in the mortal world. If I had the time to focus, perhaps I could find something else, but now…”  The sorcerer trailed off and fell silent, his expression pensive.

                Arthur peered over at his mentor, noticing the lines which were now prominently visible in the sorcerer’s face. It was a rarity to see such aging in any of the Fae touched. Now, he could see it in every expression, every small nuance of the man’s reactions. Things were far darker than the sorcerer had let on.

                “Tell me.” Arthur muttered, “You believe something larger is at play here.”

                “I do.” Merlin frowned, “We have spent so long trying to build Camelot, to make it a reality, that I wonder if we missed things along the way. On all sides.”

                “What do you mean?”

                “I mean, even the Isle of Avalon pushed to bring you children to your potential. To bring you back to the mortal world and slowly peel back the veil between worlds. Maab herself has had a hand in moving other creatures onto the Isle in order to facilitate the portals opening between their world and ours. The Old Ways are dying here among the humans and quickly, but something is stirring in the immortal realm. Avalon is being flooded daily with new arrivals. Each of them seeking refuge while the push to build your utopia continues here on Earth. The mystics of the Isle have been quietly moving small groups of refugees to the shadows of the realm – giving them pockets hidden by the veil to live in. The Isle cannot accommodate so many at once and is rapidly reaching capacity.” Merlin sighed and shook his head.

                “With that much upheaval, you think something is coming.” Arthur frowned, turning away from his mentor to look out over the field, “The only question I have is what?”

                “Honestly? I believe war is coming, one on a far grander scale than humans are capable of.” Merlin muttered.

                “War is war, old man. No Matter the race of people involved, it is still bloody and life altering.” Arthur frowned.

                “Not like this.” Merlin turned to Arthur, “All those years spent teaching you, wasted.” He spat and then shook his head, “This realm was protected by the fact that humans were a fragile race with finite lives. Most immortals were happy to leave you be. However, we now face a crossroads. Humans have shown a propensity to adapt that most of the immortal races have never encountered. More than that, the number of creatures finding their true mates has dwindled to being almost non-existent. Your mother and her match with Uther happen to be the last documented pair of fated mates recorded in the last century.”

                “You said almost all immortals have a fated…”

                “I did, and that is true. So, what happens when these immortals cannot find their chosen among their own ranks.” Merlin waved a hand at the field before them, “It is possible that fate would have placed their fated one’s among the mortals. However, prejudice and pride stopped the immortals from bridging the gap long ago. Now, we have begun the process, but it is being rushed. When one considers that, as well as the sudden surge in immortals making the pilgrimage to Avalon to find sanctuary…the timing is circumspect. If a war is brewing in the Immortal realms, magick itself could be in jeopardy. Few people on this plane know how to wield such gifts, so if this world were to be lost to the immortals, the consequences could be dire.” Merlin frowned and peered at Arthur.

                “How so?” Arthur situated himself on his saddle, turning sideways to take in his mentor more fully.

                “Losing the portals to allow humans touched by immortal lines to travel and train in magic, means that if the portals were to close, the earth would be lost to the Immortal clans forever. The veil being lifted requires mortals that know of this world and the one beyond to support the bridges. Not to mention, the leylines that bind together the whole of reality cross at the Isle. If it were to be lost, all things would be thrown into chaos. A war…in the beyond, could not only destroy the Isle but its effects could well stunt the human world and cause it to be thrown into turmoil. What kind, I cannot say, but I am sure it would happen.” Merlin frowned.

                “My mother has seen this?” Arthur asked quietly.

                “She has seen many things, but none of it is clear. Whatever is taking place, someone is working around the flaws in your mother’s gift.” Merlin answered softly.

                “Thus the reason you’ve been trying to reach Morgana.” Arthur frowned, “Why not ask me to send for her and Urien?”

                “What would be the point?” Merlin peered at Arthur, “If you were to summon your sister, I am sure that Guinevere would intervene yet again.”

                “Have you so little faith in me, that you would think I would allow my wife to intervene in our business?” Arthur frowned.

                “You? No.  Your heart where that daft little creature is concerned, Yes.” Merlin frowned, “I believe you have a fated. I believe that Guinevere is not her. Yet, your heart has bound itself to the girl and for that, we must allow things to unfold. I do believe that part of the reason Camelot struggles to rise, is because Guinevere is not your intended mate.”

                “I’m so far removed from the Fae bloodline the likelihood of my having a fated mate is -”

                “High.” Merlin snapped, “Just because you choose to placate yourself with that thought does not make it true. You manifested gifts of your mother’s lineage. All of those with that ability have a tie to another soul somewhere.” Merlin shook his head, “Some of your siblings, were not influenced by Igraine’s lineage and instead your father’s. They will not know the blessing of a fated unless other’s intervene. You, Morgana, Elaine, Morgause, Galain, and Rheys will have a fated somewhere.” Merlin finished and shook his head, “Your other two siblings will remain shrouded and unaware.”

                “The fact you have gone to such lengths to know this much tells me there is more. You are so certain war is coming to the mists, tell me what else has happened.” Arthur spoke in a near whisper, his attention solely focused on the sorcerer now.

                “I have been called back to the Isle.” Merlin spoke softly, “The Darkness encroaching is one like the elders have never seen. All of the council, from Immortals down have sent out the call. They plan to implement a Guardian Sentinel for the Isle. They have not been clear on who that will be, but the missive states when we arrive, we will be there until the deed is done.” Merlin finished and frowned, “Considering the whole of the council is involved, this does not bode well, especially if the immortals are pushing the same agenda they have been reaching for in the last century.”

                “You mean some agenda other than blending their lines with the mortal world and the rising of Camelot to allow a final bridge to be built between our world and the veil?” Arthur asked with a lift of his brow.

                “Did you really think that was the only agenda the Council has?” Merlin made a clucking sound with his tongue, “Yes, ultimately, they want a foothold in the mortal world, but that has never been their top priority. Their ambition is balance and to see the leylines that intersect all worlds begin to flourish. Right now, everything is dying or fading because nothing is connected in the way it should be. Whether that is a flaw of creation, or a lack of advancement due to the choices made by each faction involved is unclear. The fact is, everything was meant to be connected and the lack of balance between them all has resulted in fractures in the fabric of our reality.”

                “How do you think such a rift still exists?” Arthur asked softly, his eyes turning to the battlefield as they waited for the emissary to join them. So far, they stayed lone figures on the moors. Nary a soul was present save the two of them - a fact which gave them leave to continue their conversation.

                “Humans, mortal though they are, have been able to pierce the veil on their own in some cases. Especially in events where they did so and wound up finding their fated mates. That in itself speaks volumes.

“This simple race with their finite lives and fleeting time in existence are not only able to bond and adapt to other cultures but also, in some cases be converted to become a part of other races. There are some who believe that humanity is meant to be the tie that binds all things together. If so, the lack of interaction between the mortal and immortal world has caused a break down in the fabric of reality. These ruptures are something that cannot be fixed until some of those mistakes have been rectified.” Merlin frowned.

“So what does that have to do with Avalon’s agenda and this council meeting.” Arthur frowned.

“For a long while, it has been argued that the Isle needs a Guardian that can walk the line between worlds. As of yet, no creature exists that can do so, but with the leylines of the realms crossing at the point of the Isle of Mists, as well as the knowledge of elders from so many different races, they have considered trying to create such a creature.” Merlin shook his head and peered at Arthur, “Such an action could be far more disruptive than the actions that have already been taken.”

“What actions?”

“Your mother and aunts, your siblings, you…all of these things were brought to bear by the decisions of the council. Their rush to build bridges across the veil have invited more difficulties than I care to recount.” Merlin sighed, tilting his head back to peer at the sky overhead, “Eventually, all of these things will come to the fore. Losing Morgana and any form of communication with her is just the beginning. Darkness clouds my visions of the future, meaning whatever is happening, I am now a part of it, so I cannot see what is coming our way.”

“Then who can see such things?” Arthur asked, his fingers tightening on the reins, “Will Camelot be safe?”

“All things I cannot tell you.” Merlin brought his gaze back to the young king while his mouth compressed in a tight line. “All I am aware of, is that now, we will be dealing with the events at Camelot blind. I can no longer clearly see what the future is for your kingdom or people.”

“It is also why you cannot see what will happen when you leave here to return to the Isle.” Arthur offered softly.

“Correct. I know that when I leave, I will be gone for a long while. How long I cannot say, but for that time, you, your sisters, and the other Fae-touched will be in the mortal world on your own. I do not know what will come of this.” The sorcerer replied, shaking his head slowly. The long mahogany strands of his hair lifted as the wind blew over the moors bringing his attention to the sight of a single rider slowly loping across the opposite side of the field.

“There is more. I can sense you have more to say on the subject.” Arthur whispered, tensing as he too noticed the rider that began the trek across the field.

“You sense correctly, however, it matters little now.” Merlin tilted his  head towards the lone rider making its way towards them, “We have more pressing matters.”

“Would that my powers were like yours so I could pluck the knowledge from your stubborn head.” Arthur cursed, shaking his head, a frown pulling at the king’s lips as his eyes narrowed on Merlin.

“Such was not your fate, Arthur. Your powers are what were meant to be. Your influence will always be felt by those around you, and the ability to sense the truth of a person’s being or intent will serve you well. Stop yearning for power that will never be yours and hone the abilities you have.” Merlin gruffed.

“Tis easy for you to say. You, Viviene, Morgana, Morgause…you all have physical powers that have influence. I have but a silver tongue that many say makes me the devil incarnate. Of what use can that be?”

“Perhaps if you spent time practicing that which you were gifted with instead of focusing on the rest of us, you would learn its use.” Merlin gave a soft chuckle and smiled at Arthur, “Perhaps we should meet this emissary halfway, I have a feeling you are ready to return to your home with the revelations I have given you.”

“In that you are correct. We must ponder the things taking place around us and hope we can set things right.” Arthur nodded, a cheeky grin splitting his face, “Besides, I tire of your growling.”

“By the nine hells, you will be the death of my patience, Arthur Pendragon.” Merlin shook his head and chuckled, spurning his horse forward to follow Camelot’s king onto the field.

Both of them unaware of how the conversation they had shared would come to haunt them.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter Three

                Morgana LeFay, sorceress of the Isle of Magic, Priestess of Avalon, Daughter of Igraine Pendragon and Sister to Arthur Pendragon. These were the titles that were known among the realms. It mattered little that she was a Queen now, her marriage to Urien Lochlon of the Eastern Kingdoms, merely made her a trophy to the mortals spread about the realm.

                The marriage thrust upon her by Arthur and his wife had become a source of contention.  So much so, that she had stopped all communication with her aunts, the sorcerer Merlin, and her siblings. Instead, she contented herself with her brief return to the mists when time allowed.

                Urien was not a patient man, and despite his advanced age, his greed knew no bounds. Nothing she could carry out without manipulating the magicks of the land was good enough for him. If her husband were to have his way, she would have his kingdom flourish with the intervention of her abilities at every turn. In the beginning, Urien had been gentle, unassuming as he made little requests of his new bride. A fall of rain here, the roll of mist there, a call for fire – party tricks all.

                Only after a council meeting had she learned the devastating cost of those actions and how Urien’s requests had instead been manipulations to cause harm to others under his boot heel. Since then, she had refused to practice her magicks at his request. That decision had caused an icy rift between the priestess and her husband as she denied every request he made of her. For every denial, he tightened the noose to the tether that kept her bound to his side.

                Today had been a rare occasion, one where she was able to slip away from the keep while Urien met with one of his southern allies. Whispers existed through the halls, rumors that their aged king had turned his head towards another throne. Such was no concern of hers, as she had no plans to help him in carrying out such a feat. His treatment of those already under his banner made it clear that the man had long ago forgot what it was to be a king that served his people.

                A queen she was, but in name only. Morgana’s refusal to bend the elements to her husband’s whims and benefit had brought strife few could imagine. As the situation worsened, Urien tightened the noose around her neck. The more her movements were restricted and the tighter his hold on her became, Morgana found herself feeling true hatred for her brother and his wife. As Urien limited her time outside, to feel the sun on her face and the wind in her hair there was a bitterness that surged through her directed at all who had helped to maneuver here to this place in the western lands.

                Whatever whispers called to her on the wind, no matter the time or day, Morgana remained silent. Cursing her situation, cursing the events that brought her here, and the complicity of everyone who allowed it to continue. Her anger was such that even her mother Igraine had been subject to her silence.

                A part of Morgana longed to return home or to somewhere close to where she had last felt comfort. In truth, she could have been content to return to the Isle of Magic to reside in the keep with Viviene and the other members of Avalon’s council until Urien met his end. It had occurred to Morgana on more than one occasion that she could end her torment quite easily. The knowledge she had in spells and herbs was more than enough to send a mortal to their doom – yet, she could not bring herself to cross that line to actively take a life. Nor could she disappear into the mists and leave her place at Urien’s keep. The last time she had done such, he had slaughtered a village of people who were known followers of the Old Ways - knowing full well their loss would be felt by all tied to the magicks of the human realm.

                Much as she despised the man to whom she had been wed, Morgana could not let innocents meet such a foul end because of her own selfish agenda. So, she remained, watching Urien’s greed and malice grow as each day passed. His hatred for her brother was well known in his lands, so Morgana had found it surprising that he had wished to accept their proposed marriage.

                None of the events which had transpired made sense, no matter how much Morgana puzzled over them.  From her brother’s sudden change in demeanor, to the betrothal, Urien’s acceptance of the marriage, followed by her move to the Eastern Kingdoms. While Urien’s was one who believed the old ways, it was a selective belief. He fell in line with those that leaned towards the darker line of history where blood and death were the only absolutes. The problem with such events was how they shifted the whole of reality off balance – such actions that sent a mass of grief and pain radiating out into the universe, had to have a counter point to stop those events from spreading to the whole existence.

                Arthur had spent time on Avalon’s shores much like she had, he knew that there was a certain balance to be kept. More than that, he was working to bring the realm beyond the veil into the mortal world, an event that would be nearly impossible if a man like Urien had his way.

                “Damn you, Arthur. Why?” Morgana whispered into the cloying roll of the mist. Shades of gray twisted around silvery strands, moving to envelop Morgana even as her emotions simmered beneath the surface. “Was this a test? You sent me here to change Urien? Or to get rid of me? Why? WHY?!”

                Frustration rose, her throat tight as she lifted her hands over her head, fingers extending as she felt the current of energy moving through the air. Lightning crackled and shot across the sky overhead, outlining lines of fog that continued to churn in a fantastical display in the cool air.

                Here, Morgana feared nothing. Urien would be unable to discern that she was outside of the keep and walking through the mists. In truth, it was the only time that she could unleash her powers without him being aware. It had become a necessity to hide the fact that she continued to practice the ancient arts she had been taught. Especially when one considered she denied him the use of her abilities almost daily now.  

                Sadly, magick was a part of her, much like one would consider air. Denying her gifts was tantamount to torture, but there could be no other answer when her husband sought to use them for his own nefarious ends. Closing her eyes, the wind picked up around her, slowly shifting about her gowns to tighten the fabric around her like a cocoon as she was lifted into the air. Closing her eyes, Morgana exhaled slowly, absorbing the charge of magick dancing through the air as she hovered several feet off the ground. Lightning continued to flash, creeping along the edges of the mist while the wind blustered and blew in a mournful howl, echoing the sound of Morgana’s own pain.

                The longer she stayed here, the more she felt herself withering away. This time, these stolen moments shrouded by the mist that crept along the moors was the only time when she found any type of peace. Breathing in, taking in the power of nature around her and letting it coalesce in her blood soothed the yawning void inside of her.

                Morgana…

                The voice was carried to her on the wind, just as it always did. The sound of Merlin’s voice stretching across the vastness of time, space, and distance to reach her made it all the more difficult to lose herself in this moment.

                I can feel you in the Veil, Morgana. It is childish to still be silent.

                A sigh left her lips as Morgana opened her eyes, peering into the mist where the image of Arthur’s mentor and advisor formed. Swirling colors of green and blue shaped the mass of mist that stood for the first of their kind. Merlin had aged, the mist taking his form and highlighting the lines of stress and worry that had come to fruition in recent seasons. Considering none of them aged in the way of mortals, it was striking to see the changes that had taken the sorcerer. His presence, like that of any of those from her home, meant that her peace was to be shattered far sooner than she cared to admit. Slowly her arms lowered, calming the gusts of wind that had held her aloft up until that point.

                Morgana, please…There is much that we must discuss…

                A frown crossed her lips, as Morgana once again touched the ground, preparing to part the mists in order to leave the Veil once more. Merlin’s words were ill-timed though. Her head turned, and any who would have seen her in that moment would have known that she was something more than she appeared. Brilliant blue eyes were glowing with a silver light as she narrowed her gaze on the sorcerer.

                Do you mean like my marriage was discussed? I do not remember my council being sought for that particular arrangement. So, what happens in your kingdom is no longer my affair.

                Morgana snapped back, the ebony tendrils of her hair whipping around her as she turned to look at the apparition of the one she had once called friend. Her body shuddered, the presence of Urien’s guards moving through the keep towards the point where she currently stood, likely to watch the storm whipping across their landscape.

                I am not contacting you about your brother’s kingdom. Viviene and I have been trying to reach you concerning the Isle.

                Morgana scoffed, Try again. If you are contacting me about the Isle, it means Arthur and his little Queen are involved as well. I am no fool, Merlin. The council wanted a foothold in the mortal world, if they have you reaching out to me, it means Arthur is in trouble and they want me to return.

                I will not deny your brother is in trouble. However, I know that it is not likely you will come to aid him in the coming battle he must face. Merlin sighed.

                Then you know this little discussion is wasted on me. Morgana snorted. I suggest you contact my husband if you have need of aid. He decides when and where I go if it is manageable.

                Do you genuinely believe your husband will allow you to travel to help Arthur? Merlin tilted his head, seemingly peering through the mists to directly peer at her.

                Should that not be a question Arthur asked when considering offering me to Urien? Had he asked, had any of you asked, I would have told you that the man I was being bartered to would do all in his power to make sure that Arthur received no aid. With all that has occurred since I was sent to this Gods-forsaken land it is a definitive no for the foreseeable future.

                Then I suppose it is a good thing that I am not here asking you to aid your brother. The Isle is in peril. The council is meeting, and they would like the presence of any being tied to Avalon by blood or rite to be present. That includes you and your siblings touched by the veil. Merlin frowned, Perhaps in doing so, you can inform us of what has happened since your wedding.

                To what end? Morgana asked and shook her head before replying. Send a message by the wind for the gathering on the Isle. While I may not be physically able to make it, I can do as I am now to make an appearance. Urien will not allow me to venture out of his borders and I refuse to bring him through the veil to see the Isle.

                Are you sure…

                I am sure that the man is bloody minded and would use knowledge of that realm to destroy this one in any way possible. Morgana sighed softly and shook her head, closing her eyes for a moment. The peace she had for the day had been shattered, not only by the man appearing in the mists, but the sudden encroachment of Urien’s soldiers gathering nearby.

                Arthur will receive no aid from your husband, will he? Merlin frowned.

                No. Urien craves the seat of power for himself, his hatred of Arthur and all he is trying to do is vast. Especially now that he believes my brother saddled him with a defective bride. Morgana finished softly, only to see Merlin’s eyes widen.

                Morgana, what is…

                I must go. Send word when the gathering takes place on the Isle. Call me upon the wind, and I will find a way to answer. Morgana cut him off, and lifted a hand, the mist around her suddenly retreating. As the gray swirls of participation rolled back, her body phased, blurring into small lines of green and blue to blend with the landscape. Hoping she had enough cover to sneak past Urien’ guards and back into the keep without detection.

                It was only when Morgana reached the safety of her chambers that she finally breathed a sigh of relief. Yet even that was short-lived as she was left to ponder just what was taking place in the lands of the Veil that brought Merlin to seek her out so pointedly. More than that, cursing her own loneliness that she answered him, yet again putting her in the clutch of Avalon, Camelot, and those who had already betrayed her so fully.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter Four

                “You are sure this will work?” Morgause spoke the words in a whisper.

                “If I were you, I would worry more about upholding your end of the bargain.” Shadows shifted as a pair of red eyes peered out at her. “I put my faith in your ability to turn the boy against his father. If you have failed in that, then there is nothing that will save you from my wrath.”

                “Arthur has more than enough enemies. Why does it have to be Mordred? Surely, anyone killing Arthur would be more than enough.” Morgause scoffed, her auburn locks falling limply around her face as she turned towards her temporary ally.

                “Did you learn nothing from your time in the Veil?” He snarled; the full force of his disgust turned on her. “Would that I could have been in league with your sister, at least then there would be assurances that things would progress as they should.”

                Morgause let loose a shriek, launching herself at the figure. An action that found her caught by her wrists before being lifted to eye level with the beast lurking in the shadows as she snarled in his face, “My sister is not the one who brought you to the mortal realm,  a fact you would do well to remember.”

                “Something I think of daily!” He snarled, the smell of sulfur curling in the air as the words left his lips, “Cursed to a half-life on this plane because a child with very little ability tried playing with powers beyond her ken.”

                As he finished speaking the words, his arm jerked, tossing Morgause away from him to slam into the stone wall of the battlement behind her. A trail of smoke left his lips as he narrowed his gaze on her once again before continuing.

                “Be honest, Morgause.” He spat, “Your jealousy and greed are what sent you seeking out the darker arts. Magicks you had no gift for, yet you persisted. You stumbled on the opening of the portal. It was my sheer will that allowed me to crawl out through it. Had you done your research long ago, that attempt of yours would have been better constructed. Instead, I am left to improvise in order to remain in this realm.

                “For years, I have helped you in causing rifts with your siblings and others of your bloodline just to make sure that there was a chance I could find some kind of stability. Mordred killing Arthur is the only thing that will stabilize the portal enough that I can remain in this mortal world permanently. I wonder, if it were to fail – what would happen to you when others learn of all you have done.” He mused softly, smiling when he heard the woman’s sharp intake of breath.

                “You would not dare…” Morgause began, only to find herself silenced as the male lifted one hand, causing a tight band of shadows to encircle her throat.

                “It would surprise you just how much I dare.” Again, those eyes of brilliant crimson narrowed to small slits, “There is nothing for me to lose, Morgause. You on the other hand, have everything at stake.”

                “It was my right!” Morgause yelled, moving forward to peer up at her cohort. A decade. That was how long she had been planning this little coup. “I am the eldest, the one intended to assume my father’s birthright.”

                “A ruler is meant to put others before themselves Morgause.” The creature chuckled, “Even had Igraine not fallen for the Pendragon, it was only his children that could take the throne.”

                “True as that may be, my birthright through my mother was taken as well. I am the firstborn, yet Viviene and Merlin chose Morgana…”

                “Fate chose Morgana.” The being snapped and turned to peer at Morgause, “Not even Arthur has the power your sister wields and with good reason. One such as you could never understand the gravity of such a thing.”

                “You prefer her? Despite it being me that pulled you into this plane…”

                “Had your sister done it, I would have been whole.” Slowly, the male moved forward, his body a twisted amalgam of man and beast. Fur covered his form, with strong, broad shoulders and muscular arms. His legs were not human, with canine foot pads complete with claws. The knees inverted like one would expect to see in wolves standing on their hind paws. His face was that of a human, but dark fur covered every single inch. With no snout, it was clear this was not one of the werewolves spoken of in legend but something else.

                “You are whole now! You breathe, you speak, you walk and eat!” Morgause spat.

                “I live in shadows and darkness. There is no comfort for me on this plane, no ability to cloak myself in a human form even half of the day. I must remain hidden and alone so as not to invoke the wrath of the mortals unaware of the world beyond.” His arm swinging around to indicate the world at large, “I am cursed to remain alone, until this problem is fixed. A problem that would be alleviated if the portal you open was sealed with the spilling of Arthur’s blood. Once stable, more of my kind would be able to travel here allowing me some type of solace.”

                “I have offered time and again to use my own…”

                “Weak!” He snarled and slowly crept forward to tower over the female, “Your blood is lacking in power. There is a reason you were sent back to this mortal world with extremely specific instructions as to what you could and could not do. Not that you heeded them, which is what got us into this mess in the first place.”

                “Who are they to say what I can and cannot do?” She muttered as she peered up at the male. Despite his appearance, this male drove her to lengths she had not believed possible in seeking his acceptance. As was always true when she stood in his presence, Morgause lifted a hand with the intent of laying her fingers on the fur of his cheek only to see him rear back in disgust. “I got you here.”

                “Barely. You do not have the power, nor the skill to open the veil. You did so, but it was a curse to those who came through it. Yet, instead of going to anyone who could have fixed the issue, you insisted on these intrigues and power plays, while I waited in silence. You refused my presence at your side, and more than that, relegated me to be hidden from the world. As such, I have a decade of pain and loneliness, while you continue to fail at every turn.” His voice turned icy, “So yes, if Mordred fails to kill your brother on the battlefield to stabilize the portal to give me a chance at a true life, you will have much to answer for.” Slowly, his body moved forward, crouching low to stalk towards Morgause, “Trust me when I say, you will feel my wrath if this does not play out the way it should. I refuse to live in this hell you’ve sentenced me to alone.”

                “I am with you, Khal.” She whispered softly, peering up at him.

                “No, Morgause.” He gave a twisted smirk as he shook his head, “Had you been with me, this conversation would not be taking place. You made your choice, and it was not me. So let us hope this plan of yours works for both our sakes. You’ll have the power you covet, and I will no longer be alone.” Khallis growled lowly.

                “I want more than that, I want you too.” Morgause frowned. “I’ve always wanted you.”

                “No, you were so worried about appearance and the perception of these other mortals you cast me aside. Lie to someone who hasn’t experienced your betrayals time and again.” He snarled softly and shook his head.

                “If this works, we can be together, and it will all be fine. We will have the throne, the power, the access to the veil.” Morgause pleaded softly.

                “Perhaps you will have those things. I, however, have other plans.” Khallis shrugged.

                “What other plans?  You said nothing about other plans.” Morgause stopped short.

                “Why would I? You made your choice, Morgause. I have given you years to choose me. You never did.”

                “But…but you’re my mate.” Morgause spoke softly.

                “Perhaps you should have thought about that back when I pleaded with you to accept me. Back when I begged you to call your aunt, or Merlin, or sister to help me so I could be by your side. Or better yet, when I pleaded for you to find them so I could come into the light at your side and stop this fractured marriage you have with the Black Bastard of Burline.” Red eyes narrowed on the woman, “You made your choices, now you will live with them. No matter what happens in the next months, my choice is no longer you.”

                “I did what I had to do to get us where we needed to be. We did not need them, we never will.” Morgause snarled, “You’re mine. We were meant to be.”

                “Perhaps that was true at one time, but not anymore. Some betrayals cut too deep.” Khal answered and shook his head.

                “My choice was and will be you.” Morgause snarled, “You are my mate, and were meant to be at my side. I am just assuring we get what is owed us.”

                “Keep telling yourself that, Morgause. You made your bed, and now, whatever comes of it, you must lie in it. Yet, you will do so without me.” Khallis frowned, “I will return with the new moon. Let us hope your plan has proceeded by then.”

                “Mark my words, Khallis, you will come back to me, you are mine. Believe me when I say you will regret this.” Morgause shrieked into the cool night air.

                “Believe me,” Khal stopped, tossing one last glance back over his shoulder as he peered at Morgause. The woman who should have meant the world to him, given him the peace and future he had waited lifetimes for, only to find more betrayal and pain. “I already do.”

 

 

 

 

Chapter Five

                Merlin frowned as he moved through the halls of Avalon. The energy about the keep was charged, seeming as if it would reach out and strike anyone who came to close. Unease settled in the sorcerer, causing him to pause on his stroll about the Isle. Something here was off kilter. He could sense it in the air, feel it in the marrow of his bones. Every single breath he drew in was labored, almost pained, causing a sharp jolt to shoot through his chest.

                It had become increasingly clear that the world and plans that had been made to join the mortal and immortal realms were rapidly falling apart. What had caused the degenerative breakdown, he could not say – only that it was collapsing and something else was being ushered into its place.

                Merlin was no fool. Even if this attempt to bridge the gap between worlds failed, there would come another time where it would succeed. Yet, there would be so much time lost and damage done to the separate worlds the longer they remained apart. Much as Merlin wished that were not the case, it was becoming increasingly clear that this attempt with Arthur and his siblings had become doomed to failure.

                Peering about, Merlin took in the arching towers of black obsidian that glinted in the rising suns. Here, where the Veil met the mortal world, there were two suns rising in the sky, one a brilliant orange like one would see on the mortal plane. The other a soft, pink hue that gave off a gentle warmth and light, painting the sky with hues of purple and amber among the white clouds and blue horizon. Beams of light chased across the turrets of the keep, streaks of red, yellow, orange, and blue twisting and shooting out across the roof and reflecting the colors off the roof to send small shimmering circles out on the cobbled stones below. To any mortal seeing this, they would think they were being bathed in the blessings of magic. Even if someone tried to explain it was not directly that but a reflection of those magicks, they would not see it that way.

                The divide was so vast between the mortal world and immortal worlds that the sorcerer wondered how they would ever be able to bridge the gap. Yet, he also was aware that both sides needed the other to survive. The problem was one that would prove to be the end of all species if they could not find a way to break through the barriers of both.

                Exhaling softly, Merlin moved forward, making his way into the keep with slow, measured steps. While he had known that this day was coming, he worried that the others would not be able to make it. While Viviene would be present the others born of both mortal and immortal words were unknown.

                Arthur had stated he would attempt to finish with court to make his way to the Isle, but knowing Guinevere it was unlikely he would see the boy there. After his run in with Morgana in the mists, he had sought Arthur out to discuss his sister. Even still, Arthur refused to see the truth of what had been done to Morgana, but it remained something he refused to see. Merlin could not understand why the boy was so blind to his wife’s manipulations. More, the sorcerer could not understand how the female kept Arthur enthralled to the point that he did not see what was happening right before his eyes.

                Morgana, he was sure, would try to be present in some form for the gathering this evening. Still, he doubted that she would physically be travelling to the Isle anytime soon. While he had discussed Morgana’s situation with Arthur, he was unsure that it would hold any sway overall. He worried for the girl, in more ways than one. Her loss as a child of the Isle would be great, her loss as an ally to Camelot and Arthur would be damning, but her loss as a person would be a death knell for any and everything that they sought to accomplish in joining the mortal world with the Veil.

                While Merlin knew his own power, Morgana was still a child in the grand scheme of things. Her power rivaled his own and still held the potential for so much more. Even at a young age, Morgana had manifested the powers of every other female in her family, then moved further to the physical magic of the elements like Merlin himself. When the time had come for Morgana to return to the mortal world to join her brother at Camelot, Merlin had worried that it was too soon. A part of the sorcerer had felt that Morgana’s power had in no way reached their full potential and had mentioned as much to the council, thinking the time should be set aside to train her more fully in the ways of the Veil. The council had overridden his argument with a full vote, choosing to send her back into the mortal plane to further their plan in bridging the gap between worlds.

                The decision had been a disaster. The minute that Morgana had returned to court, the jealousy he saw in Arthur’s new bride had been visceral. It had taken less than a year for the girl to upset the council’s plans and have Morgana sent off to the wilds of the Eastern Lands. If his recent interaction with Morgana was anything to go by, the girl’s powers were surging rapidly.

                If one were to take into consideration the possible meaning behind her words, then her husband was an absolute brute to have paired her with. Something that Guinevere’s conniving had blinded Arthur to, causing him to unwittingly put his sister in a dangerous position. That decision had also driven a wedge between Arthur and his most powerful ally aside from Merlin. A fact that had been made abundantly clear when he had his conversation with Morgana among the morning mists.

                It was Merlin’s hope that her appearance for the council would allow him time to gain answers as to the severity of her situation. While he could not force her to accept her brother, he could perhaps remove her from the situation with Urien so that she could begin to heal. There was nothing more Merlin could do for her than that. Fate would have more of a hand in anything that took place than he would after that, but he knew he needed the guidance of another on the council, one fully from the veil in order to better navigate the problems that had arisen from rushing the council’s plans along.

                Moving up the spiraling staircase to the upper rooms of the tower, Merlin grimaced. His arrival hours before any of the others slated to make the trip to Avalon this day had come with purpose. A hand lifted to knock on the heavy door at the top of the staircase.

                “Who is it?” A growl sounded, the door shaking in the frame at the bellow.

                “It is Merlin. I seek a word with you before the council meeting.” He winced, hearing the crack in his voice as he spoke. It never failed that whenever he sought out his former mentor he was reduced to feeling like a bumbling child. Even speaking it seemed his words were garbled and strung together in such a way that made him seem clumsy as well as incompetent in the simplest of ways.

                “Merlin? You are here far before the appointed time.” The rich baritone of the voice boomed out into the hall as the door swung open. Stepping forward, Merlin took a moment to let his eyes adjust to the room’s interior.

                Everything was just as the sorcerer had remembered it. Even in his time of training as a youth on Avalon’s shores, Kai’isshin Ralencour had been a fixture in the keep of the Isle. A fae by birth, a warrior by choice, Kai’isshin had been rumored to be one of the favored within the Faery court. His skill with a blade paired with his natural ability with the elements had made him an asset among his people.

                Instead of using that acclaim to further himself among the aristocracy of his race, Kai’isshin had chosen to come to Avalon. The decision had been one that had not found favor among the elders of the Fae. There had been a dismissal of one of their elite warriors coming to the Isle to teach mortals and other creatures they considered to be less influential then their own race. Yet, the warrior had never once deviated from his chosen course. It was a chosen course that had brought him to the Isle and eventually put him on the council of Avalon despite his lack of position among his own people.

                The Fae had argued that no youngling, despite their prowess as a warrior or mage should be allowed to sit in a chair meant for one of the more accomplished elders of their race. It was a point that had been disproved when Kai’isshin had felled his elders in combat over the challenge for the seat on Avalon’s council. Afterwards, there had been no one to challenge Kai again, and the Fae deferred to the Council of Avalon for anything they intended to do since.

                “I am. This call for the Council, and the demand that I and others like me tied to the mortal world to attend is troubling.” Merlin spoke softly, turning towards his mentor and frowning. “Do you know why they are insisting on this now.”

                “I have an idea.” Kai’isshin grimaced. “A fool’s plan if I were to be honest. So, what is it you wish to know young magician?”

                Merlin scowled at the moniker, knowing full well it had been used to annoy him. Yet, such was the relationship between himself and his mentor. At least that much had not changed in the passing years.  

                “How bad is it?” Merlin asked, “They cannot think to do what they hinted at the last time, Kai. Such a creation, it could mean the end of the Isle and all we are doing here.”

                “You think I am unaware of that fact?” Kai swung his gaze around, brilliant green eyes glittering like emeralds. “I voted against this, but I am but one vote of many. The others seem to think now is the time to act.”

                “Why now?”

                “For a long while, we have all sensed the growing unrest in the realms. The shadows growing darker, more forbidding even in passing – as such, the council contacted one of the Oracles.” Kai’isshin frowned, “The resulting answer was not one that was favorable to forestalling the council’s plan to guard their seat of power.”

                “What was it the Oracle said? Was it Morgana, she has been entering the mists away from her husband’s notice.” Merlin frowned, “She said nothing to me about any visions…”

                “Morgana has not been answering the council for the last six months. Though they believe her husband, Urien is misdirecting the missives – they have not sought her out. Instead using the words of the oracle they contacted to influence the whole of the council.” Kai frowned and shook his head, “I have a feeling Morgana could illuminate the subject further, but they do not want to risk the foothold they have gained in furthering their own objective.”

                “The sentinel?” Merlin frowned.

                “Yes.” His mentor answered in a snap of his tone, turning to face Merlin. “I believe this action will throw things even further into chaos.”

                “How so?” The wizard repeated, moving forward to stand directly before the warrior. Never had the Halfling witnessed Kai’isshin in such a state of agitation. If nothing else, the man had been known for his almost steely resolve and unbending will making him appear as a picture of utter calm. That presentation was very different from the man standing before Merlin now.

                “Already we have done much to influence the mortal world by sending those who are Fae touched back to their realm after they are trained. Those who find their mates have travelled back to the realm of Terra to help build the bridge between worlds. Even now, small bonds are forming all over this mortal world to bring them closer than ever. Now, as we draw closer, their fear has them voting on the creation of a creature that will be a true abomination to all sides. Instead of waiting on nature to take its course they wish to create a being to function as their weapon, one with the powers of many but none of the steps in the evolutionary chain to control it. A being born of ego and pride, which will have no soul because it will not have developed naturally.

                “Such an act will upset the balance of all that we have done so far. Always we have taught that things must happen in balance, it is why we have proceeded slowly until the last decade or so. Yet now, with human offspring in the mix, they are trying to rush things, which has already led to several problems we haven’t even begun to unravel.” Kai’isshin frowned, “Some of which you have helped to bring to fruition.”

                “Me?” Merlin frowned. “I did as I was asked in mentoring Arthur when he was sent -”

                “Aye. You mentored him alright. You also grew far more attached to the boy then you should have.  So much so, that despite knowing that vile woman who is his queen is not his mate, you allowed him to take her to his bed. That one action has seen the scattering of Arthur’s talented siblings to places we cannot go. Their power, and influence lost to us at a critical time when we need Camelot to stand as the bridge from Avalon to the human world.” Kai’isshin glared at Merlin.

                “What was I supposed to do? If I forbade it, he likely would have taken the girl in one of our mating ceremonies, tying his life to hers permanently. Instead,  advised him, much as you did me, as such, he married her in the way of Mortals and their flickering new religion.” Merlin frowned, “Surely that is the lesser of two evils.”

                “Is it though?” Kai frowned and turned looking to the window, “Did you not realize all the lives you impact with these decisions?”

                “We can still fix…”

                “Not in time.” Kai’isshin frowned and looked to the wizard, “Mistakes have been made, but the most gruesome are not your own. My inability to stop the council from creating this cursed sentinel will be my own undoing. I just pray it will not cost us all.”

                “You are but one man, my lo-”

                “Ayia.” Kai’sshin sighed and nodded, “I knew the price of my failure. Now I will have to hold out longer than any other of my kind.”

                “Hold out…?” Merlin asked, confused.

                “You think you are the only offshoot of the Fae? Did you never wonder why they gave me up so easily despite my many victories?” Kai gave a small quirk of his mouth.

                “I supposed I just thought you chose to come here because of the arguments against your young age.” Merlin frowned, “What is it that I am missing?”

                “My Mother’s fated mate, was a shifter. A lycanthrope to be more exact in the description – this fact caused an anomaly with my very existence.” Kai shook his head and moved to turn back towards the desk, “Much like the humans pairing off with shifter and creating the were races that are prey to the moon, I, too am bound to shift from time to time. Part Fae, and part beast. A were by all accounts, but a Fae to some degree. As I am sure you are aware, such a condition is seen as a weakness by the Pure Bloods among my mother’s people.”

                “How is it that I have never known this?” Merlin blinked in surprise.

                “It is easy to hide in plain sight. More than once, I sent you on duties elsewhere so I could take to the night and run my beast into exhaustion. Sadly, it also means I’m a eunuch until I find my fated mate. One that it seems I will be waiting many lifetimes for, if I can survive that long.” Kai’isshin shrugged. “It is another reason my vote on the council did little to stop their little machinations on the creation of the Guardian.”

                “Why should your heritage matter in that?” Merlin leaned forward, leaning on his staff as he looked to the hard green gaze of his Master.

                “Why else?” Kai’isshin let out a soft bark of a light, “I already can step in the mortal realm because my blood is impure. What happens here on the Isle, is not something they feel really affects me.” Again, he snorted, “This position is one where no matter what I say, or take action in doing, I am damned in the eyes of one side or the other.”

                “So, you are saying there is nothing we can do?” Merlin sighed, “What will this mean for the Isle?”

                “No, we cannot stop it, we can however do something, although, we will need help?” Kai sighed and looked to Merlin, “You should know, the cost will be great.”

                “Do we really have a choice?” Merlin asked softly.

                “Oh, there’s a choice, but the question becomes which price will we consider the best one to pay?” Kai’isshin finished leaving Merlin to sit back and stare at the man blankly as the room fell into silence.

 

Chapter Six

                Morgana stepped out of the mists and onto the shore of the Isle she had called home for much of her life. This time, instead of the normal sense of welcome, there was a dark sense of foreboding that brought her up short.  Her brows drew together as she stepped forward, the folds of her gown tangling around her legs as she made her way up the beach, her lips twisting down into a frown.

                This had not been the welcome she had been expecting after her small interlude with Merlin. If nothing else, she had expected to see Viviene here to greet her at her arrival. The lack of anyone being present did not speak well of the events that had brought her here.

                “Morgana?” The voice brought her up short, her shoulders at once tensing. Drawing in a small breath, her fingers curled into small fists as she turned to greet the one that had addressed her.

                “Master Kai, I did not expect to find you here on my arrival.”  Her head bowed slightly, a sign of respect for the man, despite her own feeling of unease in his presence.

                “Be at ease, sorceress.” He peered at her and gave a small smirk. “Ever on the defensive with me, though I wonder why you have such a visceral reaction when I know for certain you were never one of the students who earned my ire. As I recall, you never even took part of one of my lessons.”

                “True as that may be, the choices one makes always impact others. Your student is by far responsible for the difficulties I now face in my own journey. I can only assume such matters are tactics he learned under your tutelage.” Morgana spoke softly, her presence seemingly placid as she folded her hands in front of her. The words spoken were a subtle chastisement of the Master before her. Carefully chosen they may have been, it was obvious that each word pointedly accused him of being indirectly responsible for the matters in which she found herself tangled.

                To her utter shock and consternation, she watched as the warrior threw his head back and laughed. Tilting her head, she watched him cautiously as he made his way closer. It was true that she had avoided him in many aspects in her time here on the Isle. The aura she could always sense around the warrior was painted in shades of red and black, outlining a sense of danger that she could not deny. Even as a child something about his presence had been disturbing to her and yet, she had never felt as if she herself were in danger from him.

                All things aside, this happened to be the first time she was close to him, and the air around her seemed suddenly charged with electricity. Oh, she had known who he was, the role he played on the Isle. This man had taught Merlin, fostered him when he had been just a boy helping to shape him into the mythical force he had become in the mortal world. The sorcerer who had later influenced her mother and stepfather to send her to the Isle to be trained in the Old Ways was a product of this man’s teachings.

                Despite never seeking an audience with the man, he had a hand in the direction her life had taken. Although unfair, he could single-handedly be considered the reason for her life to date – including her farce of a marriage to the man who sought her suffering every time she refused his childish demands daily. Anger flared in the core of her being as she grit her teeth, to peer at him now as if he were her worst enemy.

                Still, she could not help but draw in a breath as he moved closer to her. While she was considered one of the Fae touched, Morgana stood at merely five-foot-five. Short in comparison to most the women of her homeland, and petite in build, the warrior before her dwarfed her easily, forcing her to tilt her head back to peer up at him.

                His laughter rang in her ears - sparking that small defiant flame that stayed a part of her as he seemed to take amusement in her suffering. “I am so glad that my suffering is so amusing to you, Master Kai’isshin. Can you direct me in the way to the meeting I was asked to attend so that you can continue to enjoy your day?”

                The words came out with a hard edge, a bite that was inflected with every atom of distaste and loathing she could muster. While her skills at influencing others were nowhere near the level of Arthur’s, Morgana knew enough to direct her emotions into her words to strike in an empathic way. Almost at once, the warrior’s eyes narrowed on her as he made his way closer to her.

                Standing a full head and a half taller than her, Morgana would have said he stood nearer to seven feet if nothing else. His body was lean, but built, muscles corded and packed on his shoulders and arms in such a way that his shirt seemed to barely cover the mass. His eyes were a brilliant emerald green, focusing on her intently as he came to a stop a few mere inches from where she stood before him.

                “Gods you are a fiery one, though I suspected you would be.” He whispered softly, one hand lifting to find an inky black curl and twist it between his fingers as if it were the most interesting thing he had ever seen. Twining her hair between his fingers he leaned in, his lips a thread’s breadth from her own as he growled – the sound almost animalistic before he continued, “Know this, Morgana LeFay – I have never and would never have a hand in anything that would be to your detriment. If you hear no other words from my mouth this day, hear these, I will never put you in harm’s way.”

                As he finished, his hands moved slowly so that his fingers wrapped around her wrists, slowly lifting her arms so that he could hold her hands between them. His fingers moved, curling gently over the balls of her fists as dark emerald green eyes peered intently at her. The points where his bare flesh encountered her skin were suddenly alight with small charges of heat and electricity. In the very core of her being she felt a sudden surge of power, as if the elements themselves had finally aligned fully and had become the pool of her power.

                Never had she felt so strong, so energized. She could taste the power in the air, the sudden vibration of the particles of the air around her begging to be molded and formed into wonders that had never before been seen. Shock brought her gaze to Kai’isshin’s own as she inhaled sharply. Blue eyes shifted slightly in the light, becoming a glowing sapphire as she peered into the warrior’s gaze as he fell silent once more.

                “You are…” She began only to feel his fingers tighten on her wrists.

                “Your mate.” He finished, and exhaled slowly, his fingers slowly loosening in their grip. “A fact I kept hidden for years because I could not bring myself to claim you when you were so young.”

                “You…knew.” She hissed softly, and watched as his shoulders hitched up, tensing as he presented her with his back. Shock kept her rooted in place as she moved to step back away from him. “You…knew.”

                “I did.” Kai answered before peering over his shoulder to peer at her. His eyes darkening while realization washed over her as she digested the knowledge, he had unwittingly imparted on her.

                “You bastard!” The scream ripped from Morgana’s throat and for the first time in years, she gave into the urge to react without thought. One hand lifted and sent a stream of blue fire rolling through the air straight at him. “You cursed, rotten coward! Do you have any clue what I have had to endure?”

                Her voice rose as the wind began to whip around the beach, sending particles of sand whipping violently around them. Her temper in full force, and causing the sand to abrade the skin, ripping it raw as her emotions got the best of her.

                “Do not!” Turning, Kai’s hands gripped her wrists again, deflecting the next burst of fire to the side as he guided her arms to a new position. “If you think for one moment, I willingly allowed any of this to happen, you best think again. Your hand was supposed to be mine! I was waiting to make myself known to you when you came of age. I did not know that your brother would be taking a viper into his bed and that she would send you away. Nor that she would do so by giving you to that pathetic excuse for a mortal!”

                “Yet, when she did you did not think to come and get me? To set things right?” Morgana screeched.

                “To what end, Morgana? If I had interfered, the mortals would have threatened your brother’s throne far more than they do now. I promise you, if I intervened in any way, I would have slain any human in my path to get to you. It was safer to wait, and hold hope you would return here.” He hissed.

                “Why would I return? They bartered me to Urien, none of them intervened, knowing the man was a foul creature.” Morgana yanked her arms out of his grip.

                “A part of you will always belong here. While you may be partially mortal, your heart is magic, your pulse lies here on our shores.” He finished softly.

                “So what? This magically fixes everything. The beatings, the tortures, they all matter no longer because I arrive here today and find my true mate?” She spat angrily.

                “I never said that.” Kai frowned, “I know better than any other there will be a price to pay for my cowardice. That is not the reason I am here today.”

                “Then talk quickly, because my inclination to remain here on the Isle is decreasing with every passing moment.” Morgana frowned, her fingers curling into fists once more. Her knuckles turning white with the sheer force of her grip while she waited for him to continue.

                “The council plans to summon and create a Sentinel here today. Because you and Merlin are Fae touched and able to channel multiple magicks easily, they look to use you to help seal in the spell.” Kai began, his hands open, fingers outstretched to show that he meant no harm, and just wished to explain, “There is no dissuading them in this task. So, we have two choices. You and Merlin help in this ritual so that we can offset the worst of the damage and perhaps create a loophole to stop the full decimation of our worlds. Or you refuse and we end up with no influence on the creature that they create and in so doing, condemn the mortal and immortal worlds to a swift and sudden death.”

                Morgana listened to him intently, her cheeks flushed as her temper remained on display. Hurt, rage, anger, and disillusionment coursed through her with a healthy amount of disgust. She had known there was a chance that she had a soul mate somewhere among the realms, the discovery that she did, and he had willingly let her walk into pit full of vipers to face on her own stung. Immediately, she was reminded that so many feared or her kept their distance because of her abilities in the mortal world. Like all things they could not know or understand, they were cruel in the most mundane of ways. The isolation had left her dreaming, hoping for the day she would learn she had a mate, someone to accept her and protect her from the world at large.

                To learn that instead, her mate had willingly let her return to the mortal world to be alone was galling. To know that he could have chosen to approach her before she returned to the mortal world, to reveal himself, would have created a far different life than the one which she now endured.

                In that moment, she hated him as much as she ached to be at his side. Her emotions were running high, vacillating from one extreme to another with such devastating swiftness that her head began to ache. Her eyes welled with tears she refused to shed as she stepped back when he moved to walk towards her.  Holding up a hand to still his actions as she shook her head, Morgana finally responded.

                “So, you want me here to intervene and fix yet another mess of someone else’s creation?” She said it softly.

                “It is my hope that you will help us in this and perhaps, take some time to discuss this…” He motioned between the pair of them with one hand, “…and straighten everything out.”

                A bark of a laugh left her lips as Morgan peered at him in incredulity. Amusement flickered in her eyes as she saw Kai’isshin draw up short in confusion. Not once had it occurred to him that her answer to any of his demands would be no.

                In truth, she had heard rumors in her childhood about the abomination that the council wanted to create. It had been a topic of discussion in their magick theory classes. More than that, she was sure that they were using the very ritual that she herself had found that could be used for such a thing. It had never occurred to her that they would take that research, all completed on simple theories to try and put it into practice.

                There had been a single flaw in the ritual, one that Morgana had not been able to resolve. Whatever being came from the mix, would be created, not born. The creature would be an unintended life – which meant that it would technically not have a soul if she was correct in her summarization. Thus, why she had never discussed it outside of anyone outside of the class, yet several council members had been keen on her findings even then.

                While she could see herself intervening on that matter, the personal revelation that had just been dealt to her was not one she was likely to entertain. At least not any time soon. She could not help but feel a healthy amount of betrayal from Kai’isshin’s actions. While she had been unaware of his importance, he had known what she was to him for years. Yet, he had made no move to come to her, to intervene, or even redirect the path her life was taking. Instead, waiting for a time he deemed right to stake his claim, when he was ready. It mattered little to him what had happened to her in that time, his agenda seemed to be all that he cared for. Something she resented with every fiber of her being.

                “Stop.” She said and frowned, peering over at him as his eyes seemed to flicker, moving between a jeweled emerald color to a slate black, then back again. “So that is your summation. I come to the Isle and help with your problem with the council and afterwards, you want to talk to try and smooth over the fact you left me to my own devices and the will of others for years? That I will forget you have known for years that I was your other half, and you chose to keep your distance. Then, as I was fighting for my worth, my existence with a bastard of a husband that tortured me by making me deny myself and my talents, you decided to remain hidden and not come for me? This…this is what you think should happen.”

                Morgana arched a brow, watching as Kai’isshin’s mouth seemed to flop open and slap shut in repeated motions. In a way he resembled a fish, struggling for air as he stared at her in surprise.

                “We must discuss this, Morgana. It’s not going to go away and if you knew my reasons…”

                “Honestly, I could give a rat’s damn in the Nine Hells about your reasons, Master Kai’isshin.” She spat back.

                “It’s just Kai. Please, Morgana…”

                “Please Morgana, what?” She hissed and lifted her hand, sending a sudden blast of air to knock him back off his feet. “Let’s get something straight right now, Master Kai’isshin. I am not one of your apprentices who is easily blinded by tales of your battles fought. I am a sorceress in my own right that is on par with the most revered mages among your people.” Her eyes narrowed on him as she drew herself up and dropped her voice low, “You want to talk about us, or the possibility of an us now that YOU are ready for it. Surprisingly, life is not always fair when dealing with the mortal world, Sir.”

                An empty smile curled her lips as she moved to step past the point where he currently sat in the sand, “I have lived these past years in torment because you thought it best to leave me in the mortal world because the situation in opening the human terrain to the Isle was more important. So now, you will wait for ME to be ready to acknowledge what if anything exists between us. For now, be content with knowing that I will help with this ritual that is threatening the balance of our worlds right now.”

                “Make no mistake, Morgana LeFay. We will be speaking of what is between us as soon as this is over.” Kai frowned a little, moving to push himself up out of the sand to follow.

                “Keep believing that. You have known my Aunt Viviene and Mother for a long while, Master Kai’isshin.” Morgana smiled slowly, seeing his flinch at her continued formal use of his title. “Tell me, have they ever been such pushovers for the ways of men like yourself?”

                “I never said they were. I am your other half; you have to listen to me at some point.” He continued; his cheeks painted a bright red as his skin flushed with temper.

                “That might prove to be true, but it never said that such a conversation would be anytime in the near future. You have your time to make your decisions, now you will let me have mine.” Spinning on her heel, Morgana moved to start the trek up the coast and towards the keep in the distance. Behind her, the sound of the Fae cursing in several differing languages brought her a small measure of comfort even if her heart continued to break with every step she took.

 

Chapter Seven

                The day had been a trying one for the sorcerer. His mentor had been in a sullen mood all day, snapping and yelling at any who crossed his path for the better part of their time together. Morgana had made an appearance, but said little while the council made it known that tonight, under the light of the full moon of the solstice they would be enacting their ritual.

                Merlin had done his best to argue against their insistence. He had gone so far as to say they should wait for the premonitions or farseeing of those that had been trained on the Isle with connections to the mortal world but it had been in vain. There had been no dissuading them from the action.

                A part of him was disheartened to see Morgana as withdrawn as she was. He made a mental note to check on her when all of this was over to try and help undo some of the damage he had wrought. Still, he could not help but notice how she flinched each and every time his mentor wandered near her. At first he had assumed like most other mortals she was intimidated by his presence, but after the meeting with the council it had become clear there was more at play.

                Now, standing in Viviene’s chamber, he watched as Morgana’s face paled when they entered. With only a couple of hours until sunset, he knew now would be the time that they had to set their own plans in stone. There would be no dissuading the council from their course of action, so any intervention that they could manage would have to be found quickly.

                As they entered the room, he noticed that as soon as the color left Morgana’s face she stood and excused herself from the chamber. One hand moving to lay on her Aunt’s arm before she ventured out the door into the garden just outside Viviene’s chambers.

                When Kai’isshin refused to follow, he found a wall of ice barring his way, effectively freezing him out. Viviene, arched a brow and looked over at the warrior, making Merlin wonder what exactly was taking place.

                “Damn it, witch. You have no right to interfere.” Kai’isshin grumbled.

                “That is not me, warrior.” Viviene answered softly and moved to walk around the table, taking a seat on the chaise nearby. “My niece seems to be experiencing a sudden surge in power. Not even I could tell her to rein in her temper while that is happening. Though I think you will have more insight as to the reason for her poor mood then I can discern.”

                “Of course.” Kai’isshin rolled his eyes, moving to lift a hand to bring the barrier down with flames, only to find the fire ricocheting back into the room to set the table and the bedclothes aflame. “Bloody Hells.”

                Merlin blinked, unable to process the fact that he had just seen his mentor’s own skills fall flat in the face of Morgana’s power. “When did she get so much power?”

                “My guess is, her husband, or someone she has come into contact with.”  Viviene frowned, “Though she has not said much, if anything she has been distracted by her thoughts.  Just before you entered, she said she needed to speak with me.”

                “You are the Lady of the Lake.  Water is your element, can you please drop her spell?” Kai’isshin snapped.

                “Actually, no I can’t. Morgana’s magic is…unique. She is combining elements and reshaping them. Without knowing exactly how she manipulated them, anything I do could make it worse. Besides, you have never spoken to any of my family before, why so intent on doing so now, the girl will be here for the ceremony later.” Viviene shrugged as her fingers played over the empty air, sending small surges of water to douse the embers of the warrior’s failed fire.

                “How is it that your abilities cannot penetrate the barrier? Has Morgana truly grown so strong?” Merlin asked in question, his eyes widening at the display of power. While he was unmatched in most areas, not even he was capable of conjuring something as complex as what stood before him.

                “It is the price I pay for being what I am.” He muttered and looked to Viviene.

                “This is not something I can help you with, Kai.” Her voice held a soft note, something almost maternal. “These are the choices you made, I told you long ago they would have a price.”

                “I just need her to hear me, Viviene.” His head whipped around to peer at the female who had become the mortal pinnacle of Avalon and represented hope for both the immortals here on the Isle and the humans in the mortal world.

                “When Igriane first told you that she could not divine your future, and you asked why, she said it was because your life was tied to closely to her bloodline. So I will assume that it is Morgana that is the reason. All I could see was a long future for you, one that is lonely and of your own making. You still took the steps that led you that way.” Viviene shrugged. “Much like my sister, I cannot see much because of your tie to Morgana.”

                “Morgana?” Merlin asked and looked to his mentor in confusion, “You taught Morgana?”

                “No, If anything I kept my distance from her to give her a chance to live a full life before pulling her into my world.” Kai’isshin frowned and then turned to peer at his apprentice, “She is my mate.”

                Merlin blinked, spluttering and then groaning as he leaned forward to put his head in his hands. “By the nine hells, this just got a lot more complicated.”

                “What is complicated about it? She is my mate, her place is by my side as is any female to her bonded.” Kai frowned and shook his head, “This is not a difficult thing to understand, even mortals cling to their partners.”

                “You are an ass.” Viviene narrowed her eyes on the warrior, a ghost of a smile on her lips, “My niece is going to flay the skin from your body. Well figuratively.” She chuckled.

                “I would not bet on that. Morgana is angry and I have seen her skill with a blade.” Merlin frowned, “It was hard enough convincing her to come here today.”

                “A mate cannot use their abilities on their partner. Angry as she might be, Morgana cannot harm your Master without hurting herself. In that you can rest assured he will not be meeting his afterlife today.” Viviene chuckled, “Though he might want to.”

                “She will listen.” Kai said forcefully and caused both Viviene and Merlin to turn in his direction.

                “Of course she will.”  Viviene indicated the block of ice barring the door, “That’s working so well now, is it not?”

                “Then help me!” This time, the warrior roared, his voice ending on a low, animalistic growl.

                “There is nothing I, or even your apprentice, can do to help.” Viviene spoke softly and shook her head, “The problems you face with her, are your own to figure out. I can tell you, forcing her, or thinking you will force her to fall in line to what you think should happen, will not help your case.”

                “So I am meant to just let her continue to ignore my presence?” Kai frowned.

                “No, you are going to sit down, shut up, and stay out of my path like you have been doing a majority of my life.” Morgana’s words echoed through the ice just before the barrier dropped.

                Merlin watched as Morgana made her way forward, noticing the pallor of her skin and the way sweat dotted her forehead. All signs he had noticed in their brief interaction in the mists. His gaze drawn to the side of her throat where he could see the faint lift and fall of her veins under the skin as realization dawned, “You are ill.”

                Morgana stilled and turned to peer at Merlin. For a moment, her eyes flickered again, moving from sedate blue to a brilliant shimmering sapphire before she nodded, “I am, but it will resolve itself in time.”

                “What do you need?” Kai moved towards her, one arm outstretched to catch her close to him.

                He met only air.  As fast as he had moved she had transported herself across the room, and only when she spoke did Merlin realize she had positioned herself behind him.

                “I need nothing from you, Master Kai’ishhin.” Her voice was lacking in emotion as she looked to the warrior.

                “Stop this stubbornness, Morgana. I can help if you would just let me.” He began, only to be cut off as she held up a hand.

                “I told you; this would not be something we would discuss today. If you continue to push the matter, I will leave this Isle today with a rejection to the Isle and as your mate if you force my hand.”

                “You would not dare! And I told you before call me KAI.” He roared, the sheer volume of his voice causing the glass in the room to tremble and shake.

                “Oh, I dare.” She turned her gaze to his and for the first time, Morgana displayed a trait that to date had only been seen among the Fae. The center of her pupils ignited with a small golden flame, showing the channeling of pure elemental magicks through her blood.

                “You are my chosen, my other half. Your place is by my side!” The warrior flexed his fingers, balling his hands up into fists and releasing them just as quickly. A motion he repeated more than once as he struggled to find his center.

                “Perhaps you should have considered that before letting me be married off to a cruel king who was determined to put a leash on me!” Morgana shot back and then hissed, “A small fact you seem to keep overlooking is I am still married.”

                “To a mortal man close to his own death.” Kai’isshin spat.

                “To a mortal man who is the father of the child he forcefully sired on me!” Morgana’s own body shook with rage, her fingers clenching and unclenching in a manner similar to Kai’isshin’s own.

                “What?” The warrior stumbled back, his eyes widening as he went still. “But you are mine…”

                “I was. You left me unclaimed, and I was gifted to that bastard. When I wouldn’t give him my powers willingly, he started restricting my movements. I haven’t seen my family in two years. I have not been to the Isle in longer than that. When limiting my movement did not break my will to given him my gifts, he decided instead I would be used as a wife should be.” Morgana frowned, “So do not talk to me about what being your other half means. You abandoned me in favor of your own ambition for this Isle and the place on the council.”

                “I will…I can rid you of him.” Kai’isshin whispered. “We can make it…”

                “Go away? “No,” Morgana frowned, “There is no erasing what has happened to me. No matter how much you may want to ignore it.”

                The whole room went silent, Merlin searching for something, anything to say. His heart ached to know what the girl had suffered and the discussion he had with Arthur over the mistake hung heavily on his shoulders. Too little, too late.

                “Morgana, if you wish to return home, I will do what I can with the ritual tonight.” Merlin began, only to have her lift her hand and shake her head before continuing.

                “Both of us have to be there if we have any chance of off-setting what the Elders are trying to do.” Moving to wrap her arms around her center, Morgana spoke softly, “The reason I asked Viviene to send for you both, is because I had a vision of what is coming.”

                “What did you see, Morgana?” Merlin asked softly and was surprised when she moved to lay a hand on his shoulder.

                “The end.”  She whispered softly.

                “The end?” Viviene asked.

                “When the ritual finishes this evening, the clock will have begun. Avalon, the Isle of Magic, and the bridge between this place and the mortal world will fall.” Morgana frowned, “I know that they will be lost to us, for a long while. I know there will be unrest among all the realms and a time of darkness will cover the whole of reality.

                “In time, the Isle will reawaken, but until it does, we will all be relegated to the shadows, cursed to live in secret. Some will die, or fall into the darkness. Others will fight but lose in the end without knowing true peace.” She frowned, “I know when I leave here today, I will not see the Isle again before it falls.”

                “No, you will stay here…with me…” Kai’isshin spoke softly.

                “The child I carry is mortal. He will need his mother in the mortal world, so I will not be here when the whole of our world falls.” She stated matter of factly, dismissing him out of hand.

                “How long?” Viviene asked softly.

                “It is not exact, Aunt.” Morgana replied, “A couple of years, maybe less. I know that the day Avalon falls, so too will Arthur and his kingdom.”

                “So, there is no hope?” Merlin croaked out.

                “Only if you and I succeed.” Morgana said pointedly.

                “Succeed in what?” Merlin asked wearily.

                “Giving a Sentinel a soul.” Morgana whispered softly.

                “I will not let this stand!” Kai’isshin whispered and moved forward, “I will not lose you.” One of his hands moved to grip Morgana’s arm as he pulled her closer to him and glared down at her from his towering height as if trying to will her to his side.

                 “I was never yours to lose. You made your choice. Now, fate must play out the way it was intended.” Morgana finished in a whisper, her words making the warrior draw back with a pained expression.

                “None of this is what was supposed to happen. This was not the plan.” Kai’isshin whispered.

                “Plans are not the way life works. While we force ourselves to plan and organize, the rest of the world keeps moving. I have a child to think about, one that cannot exist in this world because his father is mortal.” Morgana shrugged, “For now, my place is at the side of the man who fathered my child, whatever that means.”

                “Mark my words, Morgana LeFay. I will come for you, make no mistake about that.” Kai’isshin peered at her quietly.

                “No, you won’t.”  The words that were spoken were whispered, but seemed almost absolute. “Merlin, come with me, we have little time to prepare.” Motioning to the door leading out into the garden, Morgana trailed out of the room silently, leaving the Warrior and her aunt staring after her. A few moments later, Merlin rose from his seat, seeing the lost look in his mentor’s eyes and patting his shoulder as he moved to follow Morgana into the garden below.

 

 

 

‘

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter Eight

                The Isle of Magic had long ago fallen into silence as if those residing there knew the gravity of the situation taking place upon its shores. Overhead, twin moons hung, casting their silvery light on the world below. Here in the place between worlds where that which could be dreamed existed, a new power was gathering in the air.

                Below, a raised platform had been erected at the top of the mountains gracing the northern most point of the Isle. On the horizon, pale blue waters crashed gently against the shore, leaving traces of foam lining the beaches as the Nymphs and Sirens exited the waters to join the processional advancing up the mountain. The platform itself was crafted of obsidian. The makeshift altar carved out of the pure black stone and accented by etched crystals placed on pedestals at each end of the clearing.

                Torches lit the walkways where the Elders of the council stood at the front of the platform. Merlin noted with disgust that the rocks shearing the surface had been pulled apart and drawn back to reveal the brightly glowing streams of power that created a latticework of leylines on which the Isle stood. Each one let off a dim glow of light as power crackled on the air, giving a scent of burning ozone to the already oppressive feeling in the air.

                Each corner of the altar was adorned with smaller faceted crystals that were placed carefully in line with the larger crystals that had been erected over each of the main leylines surrounding the clearing. Merlin swallowed hard; the utter profanity of the situation presented before him making his stomach turn with disgust. At his side, Morgana shivered and moved to pull her cloak tightly about her.

                “Are you alright, Morgana?” He whispered softly.

                “As well as one could expect all things considered.” Her reply was soft, thread in response as she bowed her head.

                “You could go, leave this place and let me handle the ritual alone.” Merlin offered, “If I had known what you were…”

                “Do not, Merlin. There is no point in regrets, or apologies. The time for that is long past, what happened, happened. The responsibility of what has taken place does not rest solely on your shoulders.” Morgana frowned as she peered about the clearing. “You realize, this has every possibility of working. That reason, more than anything is why we are both needed here.”

                “You think this will work.” Merlin frowned, “No one has made it work before.”

                “I know it will. That is why both of us are needed to off-set their ritual.” Morgana frowned a little.

                “You do not know that they will even ask us to…” Merlin began only for Morgana to shake her head.

                “Humans are the only race that shows the ability to adapt to the different immortal bloodlines. Here beyond the veil, the only humans are us. Well, in part at least.”  She whispered softly, “We would be the glue, but we have to be more.”

                “This is a dangerous game you’re playing.” Merlin whispered, “Kai’isshin will come for you.”

                “He may try, eventually. I have time to prepare.” Morgana spoke softly, “I do not think I ever told you, but thank you.”

                “For what? If anything, I am one of the people who has had the most hand in your suffering because I did not take your brother in hand.” The sorcerer whispered, watching as the cloaked elder began to ascend up onto the obsidian platform.

                “You were a good friend for most of my life. That means more than you can know.” Morgana finished softly, giving a weak smile.

                “When this is over, what will you…” Merlin began only to watch as Morgana shook her head and motioned up to the altar. Slowly, the elders began to move once more, gathering and crowding around the obsidian slab with its crystal accents.

                Upon further inspection, one could see the ancient runic carvings that were depicted equidistant from one another. One by one, the members of the council of Elder’s aligned with each of them. As they took their positions, the sigils began to glow softly, each one activating a moment after they took their places. Many of the beings among the crowd gasped softly at what they were seeing.

                Elders from each of the Immortal races were lining up one by one on the platform. Vampire, Slyph, Shifter, Fae, Dwarf, Nymph, Dragon – each race had one member slowly appearing from the shadows to stand on the matching runic sigil to the one alight on the Obsidian wall rising up like a monolith behind them.

                At the center of the altar, was the small frame of a child, a baby no more than a couple of hours old that had not drawn breath. The silvery beams of the moonlight from overhead bathed the pale form in light, making the skin shimmer in the cold light like the child was etched out of marble. The babe was small, too small to have been viable. The sight, however, was unsettling for the sorcerer as he shook his head.

                “Will you tell him?” Merlin spoke softly.

                “No.” Morgana replied softly. “This was my choice.”

                “Morgana, that is your child.” Merlin whispered softly.

                “Yes, I know Urien’s fate. Just as I know my own. The child would not have lived past the first month before raiders came for the remains of Urien’s lands. She was already fated to die.” Morgana shuddered, her body cold in the dropping temperatures as she drew in a soft breath. “I needed the excuse to leave the Isle, his betrayal is too new and too deep. Besides, I will be needed in the human world, as will you.”

                “You could give him the choice.” Merlin spoke softly.

                “He chose the good of the others of our worlds over his mate. This time I am doing the same. He must learn, Merlin. The rules are changing, and actions have consequences.” She smiled sadly and turned her head to peer at him, “You will see me again…one day.”

                “I’m… sorry.” Merlin said again, only to fall silent as the four dragons at the altar stepped forward, each one breathing out onto the altar to bathe it in a combination of their elemental breaths while the others began to chant slowly.

                “By the power of elements, both primal and shrouded, we give you form. To the towers of protection at the four towers of the guardians we offer fire, water, earth, and air. North aflame, South in waves, Stone of the East, Wind of the West called now to this place, strength of shadow and peace of light, open your arms. Awaken the child with the gift of everlasting life, of service and power, of magic and all-knowing.” Each of the elders moved then, while the dragon’s breath curled and roiled around the concave slab of obsidian where the baby’s body lay unmoving.

                Beside him, Morgana faltered, her body shuddering as she struggled to draw in air. The toll of having the child torn from her body and the magic used to keep her upright to be here showing in spades. One arm wrapped around the sorceress to hold her up, while they watched the profane ritual continue. The Vampire elder, lifting a silver athame to his wrist before drawing it across his flesh to spill blood on the child’s form. His arm remained extended as the athame was handed to the next elder, who repeated the action. Each of the council repeated the action until the sanguine display was uniform among all the immortals standing on the platform. Slowly, a pool of vibrant crimson streaked in black and glowing blue began to bubble and roll around the frail figure.

                Pale skin, now bathed in unnatural gore had long since become slick with ichor as a black mist slowly began to pool about the altar. The chant continued, the elder’s voices echoing on the still evening air before the dragon pulled back. Each one of those dragons continuing to tear off a piece of their scales to drop into the well of the altar and float in the pool of rising blood that was rapidly covering the bent form within.

                That black mist began to roil, the blood beneath slowly beginning to churn, washing over the baby and enveloping it while trails began to draw across the interior cradle of the altar like a breathing mass of its own. Eventually, a small leg twitched, the small form beginning to shudder and shiver where only moments before there had only been the stillness of death.

                Morgana’s hand clenched on Merlin’s arm, forcing him to stillness while the ritual continued even though he wanted to cry out and bring it to an end. A part of the sorcerer cursed this entire process, and the decisions that had been thrust on the girl at his side in short order. He wanted to apologize again, say or do something that would change the outcome of this evening. Yet, there was no way to stop the sudden sense of loss that came as he witnessed the actions taking place before them. Off to the side, Kai’isshen stood glaring at the draconic elder’s that were barring him from stepping onto the platform. At his side, Viviene remained, her eyes watching the scene before her with barely contained disgust.

                As the light of the twin moons shone down on the altar, spreading across the crystals situated at their specific points around slab. As the moonbeams touched the crystals there was a sudden explosion of light to bathe the altar. Beams of red, blue, yellow, green, purple, silver, and gold spilled over the concave cradle holding the blood-soaked child and sending the vitae within to bubbling and popping in a grotesque display that splattered across the front of the platform.

                Suddenly the limbs of the child seized, all four lifting in the air and beginning to pop and snap as they spread wide. Blood clung to the fingers, streaming across the babe’s chest before flinging out to mark the elder’s standing over it. Then there was the sudden dissolving of flesh and bone that collapsed and congealed before beginning to move like some kind of decomposing ichor then reforming once again. No longer a babe but a child fully formed.

                Lightning streaked across the sky, crashing down onto the platform and sending small sparks and cinders spinning up into the air. The gray mist that held the mystical ether that shrouded the immortal world from the mortal world rolled into the clearing before creeping up to the platform to envelop the obsidian altar and the child upon it. Fire ignited in the torches scattered about and rising into the air as if in supplication to the moons above. Wind howled, whipping through the gathering of immortals on the platform, the very elements themselves seeming to voice their displeasure at all that was taking place.

                Morgana remained silent, flinching with every bolt of lightning that crashed into the platform. Each one of those streaks of lightning began to come in rapid succession only to be followed by booming thunder. Eventually, the flashes caused by the display began illuminating the mist cocooning the platform and the shifting form writhing on the altar. Slowly the mist began to recede revealing the now adult female lying within the mix of blood and scales.

                “Merlynn of the Wyllde, your time has come as the representative of the mortal world.” One of the dragons spoke, slowly backing away from the head of the altar. “Bring the one, Morgana of the Fey that she may also gift her blessing as well.”

                Merlin frowned and moved to make his way through the crowd. Careful to keep Morgana close as they moved through the throng of bodies scattered about the platform. Careful not to focus to closely on the form of the creature upon the altar, he moved carefully so that Morgana could keep pace with him. It was only the sound of Kai’isshin’s sharply indrawn breath that had his gaze moving over the creature before him.

                It was difficult not to see the resemblance present. Any question there had been about the creature’s lineage would have been eradicated with one look at Morgana. The girl was almost identical, not that any of the immortals had noticed. The only differences that could be seen to that point were the Sentinel’s hair which was streaked with lines of silver, white, gold, and auburn that shimmered in the dim light cast by the crystals glowing about the altar. Then on the center of the female’s forehead, was a mark, glowing silver, in the shape of a crescent moon attached to a solitary star. The mark of supreme magick on the Isle and formed on the creature’s forehead.

                “Morgana…no!” Kai shouted before the dragon’s moved to block him from the altar.

                “Hurry, Merlin.” She whispered softly, forcing him into action as the athame was handed to him. Slitting a cut into the palm of his hand, he laid it over the mark on the center of the creature’s forehead.

                Frowning, Merlin shuddered at the cold feel of the flesh beneath his hand. An emptiness yawned inside of him, coupled with a rising power that he could not quite place. Handing the silver blade to Morgana, she repeated his motion, slitting open the center of her hand and pressing it to the center of the female’s chest. Suddenly, all of the elements on the altar began to twist, wrapping around Morgana’s form as she looked up.

                This time, there was no gradual build-up of power. Instead, there was a sudden release of energy, blasting everyone in the clearing back to fall under its power. Even the elders were thrown back by the concussive force while Morgana’s eyes glowed bright blue. Merlin watched as she lifted the hand with the athame towards the sky, and four separate streams of lightning struck the tip of the blade, culminating in a single streak of black lightning appearing from the palm of her hand over the Sentinel’s heart.

                The body on the altar suddenly bowed, a pained gasp sounding as lungs were suddenly kicked into action to draw in air. Merlin noted that there was no belly button to show a child born and grown in its mother’s womb. Even as that lightning streaked from Morgana’s hand, Merlin channeled every ability he had, connecting to the force of emotions of those around him, of all he had learned trying to focus them on the chimeric creature before him.

                As if realizing what the two of them intended, the Elders suddenly swarmed the altar and began to push Morgana and Merlin back. The minute they broke the connection Morgana collapsed the fires lit around the clearing suddenly brightened. Black flames shot up through the sky and then bent, bowing towards the altar and enveloping the cradle in the flames. The heat and intensity of that fire made Merlin feel as if his phone was being peeled away from his bones and melting away its presence, leaving him raw and exposed.

                “It…is…finished.” Morgana whispered, and smiled a little, her skin pale, and nearly translucent as she collapsed back on the platform.

                “Morgana!” Kai’isshin moved towards her, and frowned, catching her up in his arms. “What have you done?”

                “What you asked.” Merlin flinched, the flames around them growing in intensity as Morgana’s body bowed, a mimic of the body on the altar enveloped in flame. “Make it right.”

                “I…don’t…leave.” Kai’s voice broke, his head bowing once as he laid his head on the curve of her shoulder.

                “We will meet again. Do not…mess up…this time.” Morgana gave a weak smile, before her body dissolved into mist and trailed off, moving into the space of one of the leylines, leaving Merlin shocked.

                Before he could question what had just happened, there was a sudden explosion as the black flame shot up into the air and dissipated. Upon the altar, the female drew in a breath, her eyes snapping open, her body shaking and trembling uncontrollably. Rolling over, one hand crept to the edge of the altar, bloodied fingers gripping the obsidian and finding it too slick to gain purchase. The eyes peering out of the gore covered face were an amalgam of colors. The pupils small flickering points of black fire while the irises were a shimmering mix of gem colors swirling about the flame.

                His awe was shattered, as suddenly the girl lifted her hand, cradling her head so that her nails dug into her skull in a clawing motion before her head shot back and she released an ear piercing scream.

                That sound was both deafening and devastating. For it ushered in the reality that the Isle was doomed to fall. Every crystal shattered, the shards sent up into the air where they hovered and began to be cast across the sky catching the light of the moons and reflecting its light as well as that of the stars overhead.

                Merlin shuddered as the feedback began, the chimera had been gifted as he and Morgana intended, a fully formed adult with empathic abilities. All the power the council could want, now controlled by the very real emotions of those around her.

                At this moment, the newly born creature was being flooded with the pain and emotions of every creature within her radius. Considering her combined bloodlines, there was no telling the extent of her power. Yet, her creation was no milestone to be celebrated, but instead a warning.

                For in her eyes, Merlin saw the future. In that single gaze he could see the destruction of the Isle, the pain of loss, and more than that, the suffering that would take place in the millennia to come.

                He only hoped that in time, they could undo the damage they had wrought.

 

THE END

  

 About the Author

 

Born in Fayetteville, NC Mariah Lynde found her passion for the world of fantasy in book at an early age. Spending many days with her nose buried in some written text rather than going out to play, it fostered her love of the written word. A military wife and mother of one, Mariah write from her home in the Piedmont of North Carolina. She is a former paramedic and an avid fan of Australian Shepherds.

 

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