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The Magic of Love	By : kdarkbutterfly Category: M through R > Merlin (BBC) > Merlin (BBC) Views: 4254 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 0
Disclaimer: I do not own Merlin or any characters on the show that is owned by the BBC and I do not make any money/profit on this

Chapter List
- 1-The Magic of Love
- 2-Ch. 2
- 3-Ch. 3
- 4-Ch. 4
- 5-Ch. 5
- 6-Ch. 6
- 7-Ch. 7
- 8-Ch. 8
- 9-ch. 9
- 1
- 2
- 3
**Merlin**
He ran. How far, he doesn’t know, but it’ll never be far enough as the words just repeat in his mind.
Magic.
Get out of my sight, sorcerer.
The hate and rage spilled from those lips is what drives Merlin to continue running as his heart breaks. Finally, his legs give out and he falls to the ground in a heap of mess. His magic roils within him, responding to his emotions and without his consent, it bursts out.
He opens his arms wide, looking up at the sky as his now hated magic radiates from his body, heading upwards. Clouds seem to form quickly and there was a loud thunderous sound before hot rain falls. Exhausted, Merlin slumps to the ground, uncaring that he’s getting soaked as his tears mix with the rain.
Arthur hates him.
That’s all that he can think about and nothing else matters now. He dedicated his life for the once and future king, everything that he is had been for Arthur.
:Emrys:
Merlin shudders as someone telepathically calls out to him, but he doesn’t respond. However, that didn’t stop the person from approaching him.
Merlin didn’t know what happened afterwards as he wakes up in a far more comfortable position than huddled on the forest floor. He feels confused as he is looking up at an unfamiliar thatched ceiling. With a groan, he sits up, taking in the fact that he’s in a bed with blankets sliding off his naked chest.
With a start, he lifts the blankets to see that he’s fully naked. He blushes as he immediately covers himself up before looking around the room. It was small, but cozy, with a table and a couple of chairs, a bookcase filled with various odds and ends alongside with books, a warm fire crackling on the opposite wall, and the walls are covered with runic sigils and drying herbs.
The door to the outside opens and Merlin tightens the blankets around him as a woman strides in. She is beautiful with a regal presence that makes Merlin feel like he should bow to her. She has bright red hair, like the rubies he’s seen on Morgana’s necklace and emerald eyes that crinkle as she looks at him with a bright smile.
“Emrys, you’re awake,” Her voice sounds like a babbling spring, but with the power of a rushing river, “How are you feeling?”
“Ah, Milady,” Merlin stumbles over his tongue as despite being around royalty for years, only she can make him feel like he’s in a true noble’s company, “I-I feel better.”
And in truth, he does. He feels more at peace with himself, though his thoughts shy from the reason why he should be here.
“Relax Emrys,” She continues to smile at him as she glides over to him. She’s wearing a long green sleeveless overcoat with gold trim on top of a white peasant top and brown leather breeches. “You have nothing to worry here.”
“Where is here?” Merlin asks as she carefully sits on the bed and he fights the urge to make himself smaller.
“Sanctuary,” She replies softly and reaches out to brush the hair out of Merlin’s face, “I am Danu and this is my personal realm.”
As soon as she touches his skin, he relaxes and knowledge of being completely safe here pervades through his mind. He feels the lull in his mind before it snaps up at knowing who Danu is.
“Danu… the Goddess of the Old Religion?” Merlin breathes out the question as he look up at her.
“Yes, my child,” She nods her head with a comforting smile, though Merlin is now blushing. A thought pops into his head on just how exactly he got here, “Do not fret, your magic brought you here in your time of need as there are other reasons for you to have traveled so far from your precious king.”
“Can you… Is he… What?” With so many questions to ask, he isn’t sure which one to ask first, but then the memory of the last time he saw Arthur surged forward and unbidden tears spring in his eyes.
“Emrys,” The way she said his Druidic name, with love and understanding, breaks the fragile dam he was trying to hold up. She opens her arms for him and he takes the offer of comfort as he leans into her embrace. She wraps her arms around him as he lets everything out with choking sobs. It wasn’t just about Arthur, but every time he failed someone, every person that died because of his actions, everything that went wrong.
After an indeterminate time, his sobs turned into silent inner turmoil crying and then finally drifting into another exhaustive sleep. When he wakes up again, he realizes that she is gently rocking them while humming an ancient song. He smiles a little bit as this reminds him of the times he got scared and his mother would take him into her arms and do the same thing to comfort him.
“Better?” She stops humming to ask the question and Merlin is embarrassed for taking comfort like a child.
“I’m sorry,” He pulls away and then looks down to see that the blankets fell when he had sought comfort in her arms. He yelps and turns bright red as he yanks the blanket to cover himself up again. Danu laughs and it echoes through the small building.
“Oh Emrys, it’s not like I haven’t seen it all before,” She grins at him with mirth still in her eyes, “I have been keeping an eye out on you as you grew up.”
“You have?” Merlin looks perplexed, wondering why the Great Goddess would take such an interest in him.
“Yes silly boy,” She replies, “I have a personal investment in your life.”
“It’s because of my destiny, isn’t it?” Merlin asks, knowing he screwed it up. How is he to protect Arthur now that he’s forbidden to come near him.
“Partly,” Danu nods her head slightly, “I think you’ll feel better if you were dressed and eaten.”
As soon as she mentioned it, his stomach decides to growl loudly, proving her right. He blushes again, thinking that he’ll be permanently red by now. Danu just smiles knowingly and stands up, waving her hand and clothes appear on the bed for Merlin.
“For your modesty’s sake, I’ll go outside while you get dressed,” Danu says as she heads out of the room, giving Merlin a chance to be alone for a few minutes.
Once she’s gone, he lets out a breath that he didn’t know he was holding. He’s not sure what to make of the Goddess as he gets the feeling that he’s missing half the conversation. Not wanting to have her come back in the middle of him dressing, he pulls back the covers and stands up, a little wobbly. He sits back down, on the edge of the bed and grabs the black leather breeches to put them on first. They feel smooth and snug against his skin, but very supple. He then slips on the dark blue tunic with silver trim, marveling on how soft the fabric feels. Over the tunic, he puts on the black corded belt and once he has it tied, the door opens again.
“Thank you for the clothes,” Merlin was surprised by the fact that she didn’t let him put on his old clothes.
“They are yours,” Danu replies with a smile, “Consider it as part of a birthing day gift as you’ll receive many other gifts to catch up to the ones I’ve missed.”
“You don’t have to,” He lowers his eyes, uncomfortable with getting expensive gifts despite the fact that she could create them out of thin air.
“Nonsense,” Danu waves her hand as though she is used to getting her way done, “its part of your birthright.”
“My birthright?” Merlin now knows he’s missing something. She sits down at the table and gestures for him to join her. He sits in the only other chair, opposite of her, wondering if she’s going to explain things. Instead, she just smiles and suddenly there is food on the table. All of Merlin’s favorites are there from the sneaking off of Arthur’s plates during dining service or filched from the royal kitchen and even dishes from his childhood that he’s enjoyed. There is also a goblet in which he assumes is filled with a sweet wine.
“Eat,” She insists, “Your curiosity can wait while your stomach cannot. You have been undernourished in the mortal realm.”
“Thank you,” He grins at her for the first time since he’s been here, finally having someone understand that he needs more food than what people think he should be eating. Well except for Bertha, the royal head baker, who allows him to sneak a few goodies under her approving watchful eye. He digs in, enjoying the rich flavors that grace his tongue. He stifles his moans, but he can tell she’s amused by his reactions.
“Coercing magic requires energy, which is why you burn up so many calories and are so skinny,” Danu states as Merlin seems to slow down from stuffing his face, “You can wield far more magic if you allow it to flow naturally within you rather than stunt it.”
“More magic?” Merlin’s eyes just want to pop out from the implications of that. He had to learn to suppress his powers in order to prevent accidental magic and at times he thinks he has suppressed it too far during the times he needs it for spells.
She waves her hand and the food disappears as Merlin is stuffed from it all.
“Yes, you are capable of handling more magic than any mortal man could ever dream possible,” Danu answers before looking thoughtfully at him, “Do you know why the druids call you Emrys?”
“Not really, I thought it was a name from the prophecy,” Merlin answers as he never really thought about why they call him that.
“Yes and no,” Danu says, “It is the name that I gave you.”
“But why?” Merlin looks at her confused, not understanding where she is going with this.
“Why would any woman give a name for a child?” Danu asks softly, leading him into discovering the answer.
“But Hunith is my mother, she gave birth to me,” Merlin answers, though isn’t sure and doesn’t quite want to believe that Hunith isn’t his real mother.
“She is your mortal mother, yes,” Danu nods her head, “But your conception and growth in her womb required more than what she and Balinor could provide.”
“What?” Merlin feels dumfounded at what she’s telling him.
“Like Arthur, you were created from magic,” Danu explains, “Yours, however, didn’t need a sacrifice as Hunith and Balinor were fully capable of conceiving a child, but with what Nimueh did, Cernunnos and I provided direct helped with your creation in order to provide you with the extra power needed.”
Merlin is reeling in shock over what Danu told him, that two Gods were involved in his own creation are concepts that seemed to be mind-boggling.
“So, does that make you my Godmother?” Merlin asks, knowing it seems absurd, but he wants to put a label on his relationship with Danu to help make sense of it all.
“If that helps you, then yes,” Danu gives him a wide smile, “I did give you the name Emrys to signify that you are my kin and should be treated as such.”
“Which is why all the Druids seemed to practically bow down to me,” Merlin wryly smiles now that he thinks back at what little time he spent with the druids.
“And was why Hunith didn’t send you to them for training,” Danu gives him a stern look, “Otherwise, you would have had an ego bigger than Arthur’s when you first met him.”
“No,” Merlin shakes his head at the impossible thought, “There would have been no way I’d be a bigger prat than him.”
“I’m glad you are taking this well,” Danu confesses with a smile, “Because while the circumstances that brought you here are not ideal, there is much for you to do during your stay in my realm.”
While staying here would be like a dream for Merlin, he knew he couldn’t stay here indefinitely. He’s miss his mum and his friends, despite his falling out with Arthur and he knew that he still has his duty to him. Though, how he is going to accomplish that when Arthur hates him and all of magic will be a challenge.
“What will I be doing here?” Merlin finally asks, knowing that he is here for another reason.
“You’ll learn to properly accept your magic and destiny,” Danu answers.
“But my destiny lies with Arthur, how can I still help him when I can’t even be near him?” Merlin asks the crux of his problem.
“Have no worry, Arthur will see the error in his lapse of judgment and may perhaps surprise you,” Danu smiles at him, “Now then, we will start tomorrow, leaving you the rest of the day to relax and perhaps explore the woods surrounding this house, which by the way is another gift for you.”
“What, this house?” Merlin looks startled at the thought.
“Yes,” Danu chuckles softly, “This house and the woods border alongside Avalon and is the perfect home for you to come to when you tire of the mortal realm and while it is still within my domain, you’ll be in charge of this land.”
“What?” Merlin’s eyes go wide, “I can’t, I mean, I don’t think I can handle being in charge of land.”
“You can and you will,” Danu replies in a no-brook tone, “Emrys, you have a long life ahead of you and you’ll need a home to retreat as a respite from the ever-changing mortal world.”
“Wait, how long will I live?” Merlin never really thought about his life in terms of anything beyond serving Arthur.
“Thousands of years,” She levels an eye at him, “You are essentially immortal, though you can be killed.”
“What?!” Merlin instantly pushes back his chair and stands up, “No way. I can’t live for that long, what would I do?”
“Sit back down, Emrys,” Danu admonishes him and waits until he grudgingly obeys before continuing, “It is Arthur’s destiny to be king now and in the future for Albion’s direst need and it is your destiny to stand with him during those times. You will need to be there for him to smooth out the transition for him to become the future king, which means you’ll have to be aware of what goes on during the time he’s not there. Also, being the most powerful sorcerer to ever walk the Earth comes with great responsibilities, ones that you would not be able to accomplish in a mere mortal’s lifetime.”
“I didn’t think…” Merlin is gob smacked from the implications of his destiny, he didn’t think about what would happen when Arthur was needed again nor how he was going to help.
“No, which is why you would have eventually arrived here, though I am glad it is sooner than later,” Danu says, “It isn’t too late to make the situation better for you and Arthur.”
“How?” Merlin asks, though to be honest he’s a bit overwhelmed by all of this new information.
“We can talk about it later,” Danu replies, seeming to understand just how much Merlin’s head is swimming with the sudden changes, “Why don’t you take a walk to give yourself a chance to come to terms with all of this.”
Merlin just meekly nods his head, glad for the respite and stands up.
“Thank you,” He remembers to be polite before heading to the door.
“Ah Emrys,” Danu catches his attention before looking down at his bare feet.
“Oh, right,” Merlin blushes as he looks sheepishly at his feet, “Uh, I think I need boots.”
“Yes and a means of defending yourself,” Danu smiles as a pair of boots and a sword appears on the table. “While the woods is relatively safe, there are some dangers for those that go in without any protection and until you are more comfortable wielding your magic, a sword will be useful.”
“Thanks,” Merlin replies as he sits back down to put on the sturdy black boots and then straps on the light sword. He nods to her one more time before leaving the cottage. Outside, there is a small garden that is perfect for growing vegetables and herbs, and he can hear a couple of chickens from near the back. The cottage looks quaint and idyllic, which makes Merlin happy as he knows he’ll be spending a lot of time here apparently.
He sets the cottage aside in his mind and walks down the little path into the woods. The trees look like the ones around Camelot, which sends a small pang through his heart as he thinks about Arthur. He had already come to terms that on some level he loves Arthur as his devotion to the man means that there really isn’t any room for anyone else. Not that he minded, for Merlin, it had always been about Arthur and who he would be become after overcoming his prat-ness. With each step to maturity, Merlin fell that much deeper in love with him.
Now, Arthur hates him and it hurts. He already cried twice about it, which helped, but he’s not ready to move on past it. He still can’t shake the feeling that they belong with each other, more than just being ‘two sides of the same coin’. He sighs, knowing that it’ll take more than just a day to sort it all out and for the pain to lessen, so he switches his thoughts to the other reasons why he’s here.
He’s looking forward on learning more about his magic, that’s for certain. He dreams of the day, when magic is freely expressed and he is able to revel in the feel of magic. Before he started suppressing it, it used to be an extension of himself like a limb. It was the most natural thing to exercise it with his will alone. He was using it even before he could walk, that’s how ingrained it is within his very being. Suppressing it had hurt and quite possibly made it even harder to have it work, which might’ve explained why it took a few tries to get spells to work. So while he is here, he’ll be learning on how to control his magic as it should have been without the ban against magic.
He doesn’t remember how long he spend walking, but he stumbles upon a small clearing with a huge smooth rock. He wanders up to the rock and finds that it is smoothed in a way that makes it look comfortable to lounge on with a backing to put him at an angle. Shrugging to himself, Merlin climbs on top of the rock and reclines in it, smiling as it is mostly comfortable.
The spot is really nice with the wind teasing the branches of the trees and he can hear a couple of bird songs, making the scene peaceful. He keeps an ear out for anything out of the ordinary as he isn’t as stupid as Arthur thinks he is, but he goes back to his inner thoughts to sort them out.
Minutes go by and he drifts into a light doze, dreaming of an immortal life with Arthur where he doesn’t hate Merlin and in fact they become lovers, spending the evenings making love in front of the fire in the cottage.
He wakes up with a start, wondering what caused an alarm within himself, but the first thing he noticed is his aching cock. The exoticness of the dreams had taken a turn into somewhat pornographic as the last vestiges of the dream was where he was looking down to see the mixture of love and lust in Arthur’s cerulean eyes and his plump lips sealed around Merlin’s cock, taking him as far as he could go without choking.
Merlin looks around the woods, hesitating on palming his erection through his breeches as he feels something watching him. Just a few yards away, his eyes land on a man, though definitely not human. The man is very tall and muscular as he’s the only thing decorating his chest is a necklace with a small wooden pendant and tattoos the grace the upper body and down his sinewy arms. Going upwards, the most prominent feature is the huge antlers on top of the man’s thick brown hair, clueing Merlin on who it is, but once he makes eye contact with the molten green eyes that are raging with lust, all capacity for thought escapes him. His cock throbs on the precipice of release and Merlin closes his eyes as he tilts his head back with a wanton moan.
“You are looking like a man’s wet dream, young Emrys,” The man’s voice reverberates with a huskiness of virility that echoes within Merlin, liberating another moan from him, “Very debauched for a virginal offering.”
The voice sounded closer than expected and Merlin snaps open his eyes to see his vision taken up by sculpted abs that makes Merlin’s mouth water as he can visualize his tongue tracing each defined line downward to the very real heavy cock straining against the brown leather breeches. Merlin balls up his hands to prevent himself from actually touching the man, but to also use the pain from his fingernails digging into his palms to break free of the lustful waves emanating from him.
He finally forces his eyes to look up at the man standing mere inches from the stone lounge, but this time he knows better than to look directly in his eyes.
“Cernunnos,” Merlin whispers, finally giving name to the god in front of him.
“Yes, Emrys,” Cernunnos smiles down at him, “And you know what I want to partake from you.”
And Merlin did know what the God of fertility and of the land wants, nay needs. With that, Merlin unclenches his hands to reach down for the ties to his breeches, but Cernunnos just merely waves his hand and suddenly they’re open with the cool breeze teasing his achingly hot erection. Merlin gasps and then moans as he can feel his balls draw up, ready to overflow. He quickly turns on his side, knowing just one small touch, one more thought, will send him over the edge. Without any thought, his mind recalls the last visual of his dreams and with that, he came undone.
“Arthur,” Merlin half moans, half shouts as his seed shoots out, spurting onto the ground, but he doesn’t pay it any heed as the pleasure overwhelms his body and sight.
Finally, what seems like an eternity and a mere second at the same time, Merlin slumps back onto the rock and blearily opens his eyes, panting.
Merlin focuses on Cernunnos, who has collected a drop of Merlin’s seed on his outstretched finger. He watches the God open his mouth and suck on the finger, clearly enjoying the flavor of Merlin’s seed with a deep rumbling moan. Merlin watches with fascination as Cernunnos’ unfettered cock swells even bigger before discharging onto the ground, right next to the wet spot of Merlin’s come.
“A freely offered gift of life given with such love is indeed a rare submission,” Cernunnos says reverently as Merlin looks back up at him, “One that deserves a richly gift in return.”
Before Merlin could object to receiving compensation from the God, Cernunnos bends down and kisses Merlin on the lips, enticing him to open up. Merlin doesn’t struggle as he grants Cernunnos permission to enter and at once Merlin can taste the essence of the land and the vitality of life blooming inside his mouth.
Merlin moans as heat sears from his mouth to his cock before settling back up where his heart is, bringing with it a loamy scent that pervades through every cell of his body. When he finally collects his wits, he realizes that Cernunnos had pulled back, but has a hand placed over Merlin’s heart. With conflicting sensations, he glances down to see that his tunic has disappeared so that Cernunnos is touching his bare skin.
“You are now connected to the land and will be freely given what you seek whether it is shelter or nourishment,” Cernunnos cryptically remarks, “A rare gift that is bountiful as it is sacred.”
Merlin nods his head, knowing that the blessing should be treated with respect. He then looks down at his body and notices, over his heart, a triskelion tattoo similar to the one that the druids have but different. Instead of just plain lines, it looks like elegant vines swirling with leaves budding.
“It is your birthright,” Cernunnos comments as Merlin inspects the new tattoo born of God magic, “A rite of passage that should have been yours a long time ago had you live amongst the druids, though your offering made out of love has deepened the bond with the land beyond what the druids will ever experience.”
Merlin looks back up to Cernunnos, unsure if he should thank him or not. He stalls for a moment as he sit up and swings his legs so he can directly face the God.
“I won’t ever forget,” Merlin settle on promising to remember how he received his tattoo before a sudden thought pops in his head. He looks at Cernunnos, wondering if he’s going to be affronted or not before finally asking, “Can I call you Godfather? I mean, Danu says it was ok to think of her as my Godmother since both you and her did help with my conception and all that.”
Merlin holds his breath as he sees the surprised look on the God’s face and wishes he could take it back right before Cernunnos starts laughing heartily. With some relief, Merlin has a lopsided smile.
“I see you still have your daring spirit,” Cernunnos replies with a wide grin, though the chuckle can still be heard through the tone of his voice, “I had hoped that you might think of me in a more lustful relation, but knowing your heart’s desire, I will settle with being your Godfather.”
“Thank you, I think,” Merlin replies with a blush. If he didn’t pine over Arthur so much, he would have taken Cernunnos up on his offer of a more intimate relationship as the God is fertility in a virile male form and can offer more bodily pleasures than a mere mortal. But his body and heart are pledged to Arthur, so now he feels doomed to be a virgin for the rest of his life.
Before Merlin can think about the implications of how that fits in with living for thousands of years, Cernunnos claps him on his still naked shoulder.
“Now then, this calls for a celebration,” Cernunnos grins at him as Merlin wobbly slides off of the rock.
As soon as Merlin’s feet touch the ground, he feels a surge of ‘otherness’ seeping up from the earth. It envelopes him with the same feeling of Cernunnos’ kiss of vitality but with a primal feeling of kinship and he can sense the life all around him. After a few seconds, the feelings settle where he can feel the bond in the back of his mind, more subtle than the presence of his magic.
“Wow,” Merlin grins as he realizes how connected he feels to the land, “It’s like I’m of the land but at the same time a part from it.”
“As it should be,” Cernunnos nods his head before two tankards appear in his hands and he hands one to Merlin, “Drink up and rejoice.”
Merlin grins as he takes the offered tankard and takes a cautious sip. He’s delighted in the sweet yet heady flavor of the mead and takes a bigger sip. From somewhere in the woods, music can be heard and suddenly creatures come into the small clearing both magical and mundane, deer, foxes, dryads, sidhe, elves, bears, and many more. The intimate celebration becomes a revelry as the creatures dance and mingle. Merlin laughs and joins in the fun with drink in hand that never seems to be empty. All eventually approach Merlin to offer congratulations or to touch the newly bestowed tattoo before moving on in which Merlin doesn’t mind as he’s enjoying himself immensely. Food had appeared on the rock lounge, mostly things gathered in a forest like mushrooms and wild vegetables, but also of cooked meats and candied fruits.
He doesn’t know how long the party lasted other than the sun had set hours ago and faerie lights had illuminated the party, but with the mead running through his body he was having fun dancing and socializing with those around. He knew he was getting tired when he stumbled into the solid chest of Cernunnos, who wraps his arms around Merlin.
“Ah, young Emrys,” Cernunnos chuckles as he runs his hands up on Merlin’s still naked back which tingles his nerves with pleasure. He never got his tunic back, but Merlin is still flushed with heat from the alcohol and dancing so he doesn’t mind, “You look ready to be asleep on your feet.”
As soon as Cernunnos says it, Merlin yawns as the energy of the party leaves him bereft of stamina. In an instance, Cernunnos sweeps him up in his arms and Merlin gives a half-hearted protest.
“Let me take you back to your home,” Cernunnos offers as Merlin curls his arms around the God’s neck and rests his head on his shoulder. He closes his eyes as Cernunnos moves with a gentle rhythm, lulling him into sleep.
Merlin resurfaces, still half asleep as he notices that they’re now inside and he can hear Cernunnos and Danu whispering though he missed the beginning.
“He needed cheering, Danu,” Cernunnos rumbles softly as Merlin can feel the vibrations, “And he was on that rock like an offering I couldn’t deny. It’s a shame his heart is set on that prince of his or I’d claim him for myself.”
“I know, but their destinies are intertwined so tightly that nothing can break them apart, not even us,” Danu whispers softly, “However, it is a good thing you came to him. He needed to reconnect to his roots in order to understand who he is.”
Cernunnos stops moving and pauses before settling Merlin in his bed and pulls up the blankets to cover him. Once Merlin is comfortable he feels Cernunnos press his lips against Merlin’s, kissing him good night before leaving.
“I know you’re partially awake, Emrys,” Danu says softly as she leans over him, “Today, you reconnected to the land as it is your birthright, however, tomorrow you will begin to reconnect with magic, which is far more fickle. During your stay here, we will help you tame the magic until it is under your command and comes to you as readily as the land has accepted you.”
Merlin struggles to say something, but sleep beckons him as she kisses his forehead and murmurs a good night. He falls back to sleep, dreaming of the cool, comforting touch of the land becoming his rock of safety and the flash of Arthur’s eyes regarding him with curiosity.
~@~
Merlin wakes up, surprisingly refreshed considering how much he drank and partied last night. He sits up and stretches as the morning sun filters through the windows and he can hear the birds singing.
“Good morning, Emrys,” Danu startles him as she greets him with a smile from the table that is set with breakfast.
“Good morning Godmother,” Merlin replies as he takes the covers off and then with a yelp, he covers himself back up as he realizes he’s naked again. Danu chuckles and points to the wardrobe that Merlin must’ve missed when he first looked at the room.
“Do my clothes disappear at night?” Merlin grumbles as he wraps a blanket around him before getting out of his bed.
“Not without a little help,” Danu replies teasingly. He opens the wardrobe to see several tunics ranging in colors of blue, red, and black, a few robes of varying degrees of formality that he guesses are suitable for a sorcerer, breeches that are either brown or black, and other clothing related items. He picks out an outfit and struggles to put it on while trying to maintain his modesty with the blanket.
After getting dressed, he sets the blanket back on the bed, reminding himself to make the bed after breakfast before heading to the table.
“I think you’ll still be too skinny for the rest of your life, but at least I can make sure you don’t look like you’re starving,” Danu comments as she indicates for him to start eating. He digs into the poached eggs, toast, and sausage as like with yesterday’s lunch, they are all his favorites and are quite good. The goblet is filled with refreshing water to quench his thirst.
“Now then, today you will be reconnecting with your magic before we can move onto learning to work with it,” Danu says as Merlin is finished eating and waves her hands for the empty dishes to disappear, “We’ll go outside where you’ll meditate, searching within yourself, your magic and bringing it back to you. You’ve suppressed it for too long that it’s retreated far inside you, which is why it is a struggle to do certain spells.”
“But why is it that I can still do some of the more powerful spells?” Merlin asks as what she says makes sense.
“Because it wants to be used by you,” Danu explains, “I think you’ll understand better once you’ve looked within yourself.”
“What if… what if I don’t want the magic?” Merlin hesitates on asking, knowing he’ll hate himself if he completely drives out his magic, but the memory of Arthur’s reaction to Merlin having magic still haunts him.
“You were born with this gift,” Danu softly answers, “and were meant to wield it as a force for good. What others think of you and of magic are thoughts founded upon fear and you can show them the error of their way just by being who you fully are.”
Merlin nods his head, understanding what she is telling him. Danu looks at him again with a smile before she stands up and heads for the door with Merlin following after her. They go outside and she continues walking until they reach the edge of the woods.
“Here you will sit and meditate,” Danu indicates a spot of grass that looks as comfortable as Merlin is going to get on the ground, “Once you’ve found your magic and entice it back to flow within you freely, I want you to repeat this spell, golwg hud.”
Merlin repeats the words so he can get it right before nodding his head to show he’s ready.
“Don’t worry about how long it’ll take,” Danu says, “I’ll keep watch and make sure you are not disturbed by anything.”
“Thanks,” Merlin smiles before closing his eyes. He’s done some meditation before with Gaius as Gaius had hoped it would help ground him, but always ends up asleep. This time he is determined not to fall asleep as he really wants his magic back. After a couple of tries, he falls back into the pattern of meditation with the intent of looking inside of himself. After what seems like hours, he sees where his magic has hidden deep within him, a white light caged in a black net of his suppression. Some of the magic is able to escape through the holes of the net, which is why he can still use it, but he’s unsure on how to break it free.
A whisper of a thought seeps into his mind and suddenly he’s holding a sword in his metaphysical hand. Understanding, Merlin now raises the sword and slashes at the net, cutting his magic free. Some of the magic rushes towards him, making him feel slightly giddy, but the bulk of it stays right where it is. He frowns as he thought the magic would be happy to be free, but it doesn’t appear to be the case. He moves closer, feeling the heat and roiling energy of the magic as he tries to entice it to come towards him. There is a miffed feeling emanating from the magic, like a child who has been chastised too often.
“I’m sorry,” Merlin apologizes to his magic, feeling a tiny bit embarrassed on talking to his magic, but really does mean it, “I won’t do it again.”
At his promise the magic cautiously moves forward, testing the conviction of his promise. He tries to project his sincerity to the magic, knowing that once it accepts him there will no going back to suppressing it. It will always be there with him. The magic then slams into him like an overgrown puppy overly excited on its master’s return and there is a white light surrounding his entire being filled with rapturous ecstasy. It surges within his whole body, acquainting itself with his physical body once more.
Merlin comes out of his meditation, saying the spell that Danu taught him and when he opens his eyes, the world glows. He can see little lights of color within everything, enhancing the vibrancy of the trees and plants. When he looks down at the ground he can see each blade of grass shine with an inner green light, but underneath is a very rich brown light coming from the earth itself. He looks at his hand to see the same kind of light glowing within his skin, though is streaked with a myriad of colors. He reaches down and plucks one of the blades of grass, watching as the light flares up slightly before slowing fading.
“Life and magic are the same but different,” Danu softly speaks and Merlin looks up at her, instantly blinded by the amount of light she radiates. Danu then chuckles, “Don’t worry, your magic will adapt the filter you see through so you won’t be blind sighted again.”
He opens his eyes again and sees that while Danu’s light is muted, he is still able to see the strength of her power.
“This is amazing,” Merlin gasps, finally voicing his astonishment, “Everything has magic.”
“Yes,” Danu nods her head with a smile, “Magic is everywhere, it may ebb away and lie dormant, but it can never be fully banished as it is a part of life. You needed to understand that and so will Arthur if he wants to be able to fulfill his destiny.”
Merlin nods his head, now understanding how hopeless and dangerous Uther’s ban on magic is.
“Good, now I want you to keep the spell going all day,” Danu instructs him, “You need to be able to see through it without it becoming a distraction as tomorrow you’ll be learning how to recall the spell with just a thought rather than with words until it becomes second nature for you to use it.”
For the rest of the day, he did just that though it was difficult to keep up as his magic isn’t use to being active for this long. It was startling at times, because she was right in that he’d get distracted by looking at how the magic flows within his surroundings, especially when he uses his own magic to move something. He could see the magic surging from his hand and rushing towards the fallen branch. His magic imbues the branch as it lifts up in the air. He can see the potential in using this type of seeing as he can spot objects infused with magic or when another sorcerer is manipulating magic for a spell.
His house is saturated with magic, which makes sense as Danu probably created it from magic, and with it he can also see that with more experience, he would be able to change the house, add or rearrange rooms. Perhaps even to change the whole structure of it, but he sets those thoughts aside as he still revels in just seeing the magic. Behind the house are the chickens in a coop he had heard before as well as a few fruit trees and wide clearing. He suspects that the space is there for when he wants to expand the house, but everything seems to point to him being able to live here in the long run with sufficient means of taking care of himself. Which is good as he’s not sure how he’ll be able to transport to and from this place just yet.
He walks over to the apple tree which is in bloom, ready to bear fruit, though his mouth water at the thought of biting into an apple right at this moment. Unexpectedly, Merlin sees the magic and life force from the earth shooting upwards into the tree and flowing right into one of the apple-blossoms rapidly growing into a ruby red apple. He hesitates, but reaches up to pluck the ripened apple off the branch.
“Uh, thanks,” Merlin says, blushing slightly, but now understanding of what it means for the land to provide for him, “I think we’re going to have to work out the difference between wanting and needing.”
He knows it looks silly to be talking to the ground, but he’s not sure how else to communicate with it as he’s still not sure how the druids can talk with their minds and isn’t if that would be the proper way to commune with the land anyways. Regardless, he bites into the offered apple, moaning slightly with the crisp sweet taste of it. Once he’s finished with it, he looks around to see where he can throw the remains away. He spies a hole that wasn’t there before and drops the apple core in it. The land shifts and the hole is covered with Merlin suspecting that another apple tree will grow there.
“We’re going to have to find another way of taking care of the rubbish because if a tree grows every time I eat an apple, the whole land will be overgrown with apple trees,” Merlin talks to the land a second time, feeling less silly as he now gets the feeling that it is listening to him.
During dinner, in which Danu provided for him again, Merlin asks the question that’s been on his mind.
“How long will I stay here?”
“Until you are ready,” Danu answers.
“Ugh,” Merlin sighs, “You’re worse than the dragon in cryptic remarks.”
Danu laughs before replying.
“Then I’ll do something that the dragon hasn’t done,” Danu says, still with mirth, “The length of time depends on how fast you can reach your potential. It can take a few months until you’re ready.”
~@~
The next and subsequent days that followed, in which he each time he wakes up naked, is met with Danu ready to drill him on using spells or channeling the magic. It was brutal but reminiscent of how Arthur would train his knights on a block or parry with repetition until it becomes ingrained in the muscle memory, though in this case, magical memory. Some days, Cernunnos would be there to help or make comments, other days, he’ll take Merlin out to hunt and learn to be stealthy. It was during those days he realizes that he’s not stumbling around like before and Cernunnos explains that it’s because he’s not at war with his magic anymore and is getting more comfortable in his own body.
The nights were spent either talking with the two Gods about magic and philosophy while other nights he is left alone to read or practice his magic on doing household tasks. Often, he thinks of Arthur, Gwen, Gaius, and the others, wondering what they’re doing and how they are coping without him. The nights he does think of Arthur, he gets those erotic dreams of them being together and in the morning, Danu seems to know to come a little later as he pulls down the blankets to take care of his raging morning wood.
A week after his arrival, Merlin finally voices his concerns about his friends.
“Godmother, I’m really grateful for the time to fully understand my magic and learning more spells, but I’m worried that the longer I’m here the more likely something bad is going to happen to my friends and I miss them,” Merlin says during one of their breaks as he’s past the basics of creating a shield and is now working on more elaborate ways of defending himself and others. He then adds hastily, “Not that you and grandfather aren’t good company.”
“Its fine,” Danu chuckles, “I know your friends are always on your mind and you’ll be able to go back to them soon enough. In the meantime, I can teach you the scrying spell so that you can see for yourself that they are alright.”
Merlin perks up, glad to have a way to see his friends if he can’t be with them at the moment. Danu conjures a bowl filled with water and lets it float in the air.
“This spell must be used with good intentions and not just to stick your nose in other people’s business,” Danu warns him with a stern look. Merlin nods his head, promising he’ll be considerate when using the spell before she teaches him the words.
The bowl of water floats towards him at a comfortable height for him to look in it as he casts the spell, focusing on Gaius rather than Arthur as he’s still not sure if he really wants to see him or not.
In the water, he sees Gaius in his room, working on grinding some herbs in a mortar and pestle, looking years older than just a couple of weeks. While Merlin is glad that Gaius hasn’t lost his position as court physician, he is sad that his absence had a toll on his father figure. The door opens and Gwen comes in, not as cheerful as he last saw her. Despite not having any sound, he make out his name on Gwen’s lips, probably asking if Gaius heard anything from him. The dejected look that Gwen gets when Gaius shakes his head no, breaks Merlin’s heart. He ends the spell, not wanting to see them sad any more.
“Is there any way to send a message to Gaius?” Merlin asks Danu with a pleading look as he wants his friends to know he’s alright.
“Of course there is,” Danu smiles at him and probably knowing how important this is, “Take the rest of the afternoon off and compose your letter. I’ll teach you the spell to summon creatures to your aid and you can send your message.”
“Thank you,” Merlin hugs her with gratitude before rushing off to write a letter to Gaius. He spends hours writing the letter, wanting to convey everything in a short letter as he’s not sure what to put in it nor if it’ll be intercepted by the king.
Gaius,
I’m in a safe place and doing well, though I can’t tell you where I am. I know I left abruptly and didn’t have a chance to tell you anything, but you know by now the reason why I did. I don’t regret it and would do it again in a heartbeat, so long as it keeps Arthur safe. Please make sure Arthur stays safe and not let his ego get too big or his crown won’t fit anymore, the prat. I’ll write letters to the others soon.
Take care of yourself,
Merlin
He reads the letter over again, making sure there’s nothing in it that would incriminate Gaius or his friends while still making sure it told Gaius enough. Satisfied, he rolls the letter and grabs a piece of string to tie it. He goes back outside, where Danu is patiently waiting or at least knows when Merlin is ready and reappears, he isn’t quite certain as the Goddess does have other duties besides teaching him.
“Alright, I’m going to teach you how to summon a messenger bird to carry your letters,” Danu begins, “As you tie the message to the bird’s foot, focus on who you want the message to go to and give a little magic to aid the bird in finding your intended recipient.”
Merlin nods his head and after Danu teaches him the words, he is ready.
“Negesydd adar,” Merlin releases a tendril of magic out to seek an appropriate messenger. A minute later, a blue-grey falcon arrives, landing on a low hanging branch. Merlin marvels on how beautiful she looks.
“Ah, wait here,” Merlin tells the bird as he suddenly remembers he has a bit of rabbit meat back inside. Ever since he started hunting with Cernunnos, he’s been cooking his own meals rather than having Danu providing for him. He quickly enters his house and grabs the leftover meat that he was going to snack on later before coming back out. Knowing that the falcon is still a wild animal, he carefully feeds her the pieces of rabbit.
“You are quite kind, Emrys,” Danu comments with a smile, “She will answer any calls for a messenger bird from now on.”
“I, oh, thank you,” He looks from Danu to the bird and smiles, “Maybe I should give you a name, would you like that?”
The bird, with an astonishing show of intelligence, dips her head in which Merlin takes as a yes. He takes a breath to center himself, trying to have his magic help come up with a proper name.
“Gwawr,” Merlin announces and liking the name. Apparently the falcon likes it as well as she flaps her wings and puffs up slightly with her beak slightly opened.
“Dawn, a wise choice,” Danu smiles, liking the name as well. Merlin looks back at Gwawr and strokes the top of her head before reaching down to tie his letter to her foot.
“Gwawr, I need you to go to Gaius,” Merlin says as he thinks of his mentor and father-figure sitting in Camelot, he includes a wisp of magic to make sure Gwawr can find him before releasing her.
With a shriek, Gwawr launches herself into the air, taking Merlin’s message away.
“When do you think she’ll get there?” Merlin asks, wondering about the distance.
“She’ll arrive after nightfall to prevent someone from seeing her deliver your message,” Danu answers as Merlin can see the sun is ready to set.
~@~
Time moves fast for Merlin as after he sent that first message to Gaius, over the course of two and a half months, he sent a dozen more to him, Gwen, and Lancelot. Still unable to get a message back from them as Merlin feared if Gwawr stayed too long, someone would suspect something. But at least his friends knows he is safe and is getting better with his magic. He did occasionally use the scrying spell to see how they are faring and he broke down a couple of times to spy on Arthur. He couldn’t help himself, he still loves the prat. While his friends look to being happier, Arthur’s moods vary from looking alright to downright tired and Merlin can guess its due to the heavy burden of acting king while the real king is still weak with grief over Morgana. He hasn’t seen anything happen to show that Morgana is still actively seeking Camelot, but that doesn’t mean that she’s planning something.
Despite being so close to Avalon, the weather reflects the current seasons back in Camelot, so spring gives way to summer, creating longer days. With the help of Danu, he learned how to expand his cottage with magic, creating extra rooms for specific purposes like a room for private bathing in which Merlin enjoys relaxing in a steaming tub after a long day of channeling magic. His magic is growing in leaps and bounds as he can access it freely and with more finesse. Danu had gifted him a special spell book that only he can read as it contains powerful spells for him to learn on his own. On top of learning to hunt, Cernunnos also taught him about herbs and medicines and while Merlin never wants to replace Gaius as court physician, he now knows how to cure ailments.
He spent summer solstice with the two Gods, celebrating the sacred holiday in the Old Ways of giving thanks and of course lots of mead, Cernunnos’ favorite drink. Danu gifted him a special room, underground, for experimenting with magic and to store precious magical potions and ingredients, in which Merlin is awed over the fact that he’ll have the space and protections to try out new spells.
It was about a month after the solstice that Danu deemed Merlin ready.
“Emrys,” Danu greets Merlin with a smile, not unlike the same one she gives him every morning, but the inflection of his name alerted him to something is different today. They’re inside the main room in Merlin’s house and Danu is in her customary spot by the table.
“Good morning Godmother,” Merlin greets her back before asking, “Has something changed?”
“Right to the point as always,” Danu chuckles, “But yes, events in the mortal realm are happening in which you are needed once again and it is time as you are ready to face the Heart of magic.”
“I am?” Merlin is surprised and nervous about Danu’s declaration.
“You are,” Danu nods her head, “I have every faith in you succeeding on taming the Heart and once you do, you’ll resume your destiny amongst the mortal realm.”
“I guess I’ll go pack,” Merlin replies, elated now that he’ll be able to actually see his friends in the flesh rather than through a spell. He’ll think of a way to get back into his role of protecting Arthur later. He enters his bedroom as weeks ago he put up a wall to separate his bedding from the main part of the house, wanting some privacy getting dressed as Danu or Cernunnos has the habit of being inside when he awakens. Already on the bed is a bag for him thanks to Danu. Sometimes his magic will conjure objects that he needs, but he still cannot create items out of thin air.
He already knows he’s going to bring his spellbook and as many clothes as he can, but he thinks about popping down to his magic room to grab a few potions and healing salves as they’ll be much needed. Deciding to get them, he walks out of his bedroom and heads down the stairs to the magic room, opening the heavy oak door. The magical lights instantly light up, illuminating the thick stone walls that can withstand a magical explosion as Danu explains it. The floor has a permanent circle of protection, one that both Danu and Cernunnos blessed to protect Merlin from injuring himself or unleashing strong damaging forces. Across the room is the storage, also protected by a stone door so the potions and ingredients inside aren’t damaged. He strides across the room and uses his magic to pull the stone door open as it is too heavy for him to actually open. Inside are shelves in which he forced himself to keep organized or it’ll just be utter chaos. He grabs the meager stash of healing concoctions to take with him as he really didn’t focus on mass creation but rather as knowing how to do it. He takes them back upstairs, the magical lights turning off once the door is closed.
Merlin wraps the fragile items with tunics and breeches with the occasional sorcerer’s robe, but no bedclothes because he’s now use to sleeping naked but also because Danu hadn’t provided any. He wonders why she didn’t, but he just shrugs off the question, not sure if he really wants an answer. He’s learning that some things are best kept as speculations especially when it comes to women and especially to Gods. He takes out his black hooded cloak, knowing that despite it being summer, the nights are still cold and autumn is approaching.
He goes to his bookcase, where one shelf is dedicated to the small carvings he did as he thought about his friends. He seems to have the knack of carving the wood, though on occasion he did cheat by using magic. But, they’re gifts for his friends when he next sees them. A griffin for Lancelot as a remembrance of Lancelot’s bravery, a horned owl for Gaius in dedication for his expressive eyebrows, and a doe for Gwen as she is as graceful and kind as they are. Of course, he also did one for Arthur, a lion rearing up like in his family crest. He couldn’t help himself as when he carved the crown that sits on top of the lion’s brow, he carved the words ‘King Prat’. He’s forgiven Arthur for his actions as Merlin realized that Arthur was under a lot of pressure, but he won’t forget them and plans on trying to change Arthur’s mind about magic. He stows the wooden creatures in the pack and does a mental checklist.
Gifts? Check.
Clothes? Check.
Book? Check.
Healing things? Check.
Cloak? Check.
Sturdy boots? Wearing them.
Sword? …
Merlin looks around the room before seizing his sword and straps it around his waist. It’s just an ordinary sword, but if he’s going to travelling around, he’ll need a mundane way of defending himself. With nothing else that he wishes to carry back to Camelot or he can’t replace it, he ties the pack and slings it over his shoulder, groaning a little bit from the weight. He hopes he doesn’t have to travel far with carrying that all the way.
“Ready,” Merlin announces to Danu with a grin. Danu nods her head and holds out her hand.
“I’ll transport us back into the mortal realm where the Heart of magic is,” Danu replies as Merlin takes her hand. A flash of white light engulfs his vision, but the next thing he sees is that they’re on the Isle of the Blessed, right next to the altar. He looks at the spot where Nimueh died and doesn’t regret killing her.
“Through that door way lies the Heart,” Danu points to the ruins where an archway is still erect, “It used to be the high priestess’ position to use the Heart of magic for the benefit of all, but ever since Nimueh tampered with it to her own benefits, it has not accepted anyone worthy to tame it. Once you’ve entered the Heart, you will have to tame it, bending it to your will before it will accept you. I won’t lie to you, you may die in there, but I believe in you succeeding, for when you succeed, you’ll be in charge of keeping it safe for the rest of your life.”
She kisses his forehead in a blessing before taking a step back. He swallows nervously, but then grins as he remembers that he’s faced several obstacles in his adventures with Arthur and with the few months of training, he feels confident in his abilities. He sets his pack down and takes off his cloak and sword before walking up to the archway. He glances back at Danu, who looks proud of him, which gives him a boost of confidence. With a calming breath, he steps through the archway and walks into a white light.
Just like his magic being a core of iridescent light, the Heart is a much bigger version, bigger than a house. The magic crackles around him like lightning, but he’s not singed, not just yet at least. He puts his hands up in front of him before taking a step forward, somehow knowing that if he can reach the middle of the Heart, he can tame it. The Heart pushes him back, but he grits his teeth as he continues to strive forwards, determined to conquer it.
Each step is earned through agony and fortitude as the Heart attacks him with sheer power. His own magic comes up to his defense, pulling up barriers to take the brunt of the attack as he continues his journey to the center. He doesn’t know how long it takes him, but he knows he’s so very close to the center as the Heart increases its attacks against him. He stumbles as his magic gives out, exhausting all his reserves, but he keeps going. He thinks about how his friends are counting on him, how Arthur needs him despite thinking otherwise and it’s with the thought of Arthur that Merlin dredges up the last bit of energy to take the last step into the center of the Heart.
Surprisingly, the center is calm, like the eye of a storm and it is there that Merlin struggles to stay standing. He knows it’s not over yet, he still needs to have the magic accept him. He keeps Arthur and his love for him in his own heart as he stands straight. Holding out his arms, he invites the magic inside of him and for a split second nothing happens.
The magic surges into him like a tidal wave of energy, battering against his physical and magical body before suffusing inside. It’s painful as the magic burns within him, singeing every nerve of his body and he yells until his voice gives out.
He wakes up with the sensation of floating in warm water before he opens his eyes. He grins as he sees the Heart, now tamed, is holding him aloft, caressing his naked body with golden energy. He then groans as he realizes that he’s naked.
What is it with magical things and wanting him naked?
Merlin looks down and gasps at the new addition to his tattoo. Circling the vine Triskelion are interwoven strands, forming a complex pattern and the Triskelion itself has been modified as in the center is a detailed dragon rearing up like the Pendragon lion. The whole tattoo is no bigger than the palm of his hand, which makes the intricate details that much more impressive.
Finally, wanting to be put down, the magic responds and gently lowers him to the floor until he is standing on his two feet. He sighs as he realizes that he’ll have to walk out, naked, and that he actually liked that black tunic. With a whisper around him, the Heart wraps his body, reproducing his clothes to cover him like as an apology for burning them. He grins, grateful to be clothed again, but the Heart isn’t finished as a small sliver of its enormous power in a white crystal form floats in front of him. He reaches up for it, but the Heart had other ideas as a wooden staff forms to encase the crystal at the top.
As soon as his fingers touch the staff, he knows that it is made just for him just like Excalibur is for Arthur, but in the case of his staff, no one will be able to wield its power except him. It won’t accept anyone else.
“Thank you,” Merlin smiles at the magic around him as he cradles the staff to his body. With that, the magic gives him a gentle nudge towards the door and he chuckles, “Can’t wait to get rid of me, eh?”
The magic gives him another nudge.
“Alright, alright, don’t need to be so hasty,” Merlin teases as he walks out, he passes through the archway and is transported back to where Danu is waiting with Cernunnos.
“I knew you could do it,” Danu grins as she gives Merlin a hug before stepping away for Cernunnos to congratulate him as well.
“You’ve done well, young Emrys,” Cernunnos beams at him before swooping in to enthusiastically kiss him on the lips. Startled, Merlin almost responds back, but instead pulls away with a grin.
“You can’t resist, can you?” Merlin teases Cernunnos.
“Trust me, I am resisting,” Cernunnos teases back, but let’s Merlin see the lust brimming underneath. Merlin swallows, not wanting to push the virile God into overlooking Merlin’s feelings for Arthur as he knows the God can do things that could make Merlin forget all about his love.
“This would be a cause for a celebration, but you have things to do,” Cernunnos changes the topic with a wry smile, “So we’ll have to do it another time.”
“Yes, you must be going,” Danu nods her head in agreement, “We can’t dictate where and what you should do, but I recommend heading towards Camelot.”
“Thank you, Godmother,” Merlin nods his head to her before nodding to Cernunnos, “Thank you, Godfather. Will I be able to see you again?”
“You will never be rid of us,” Danu replies with a secretive smile, “But if you ever feel like coming home, come back to this isle and walk through the archway again while thinking about returning. The magic will transport you and whomever you wish back.”
Merlin grins with excitement as he can come back whenever he wants. He puts his sword and cloak on before picking up his pack, ready to go with his staff in hand, humming.
“One last thing before you leave,” Danu stops him from leaving, “You are now the most powerful sorcerer to ever live and a part of that ability is that you can change people’s destiny. Though you can’t change yours or Arthur’s, but those that are linked with your destiny can be changed, perhaps even for the better.”
“I’d rather not have that kind of power,” Merlin’s eyes go wide at the thought of having that much power which scares him even more than having all of magic at his beck and call. It’s like playing God with people’s lives and Merlin doesn’t want that kind of responsibility, “But I’ll try to use it wisely.”
“Which is why you were chosen to have it,” Danu replies, “It still requires great effort to change what has been foretold, so it will not be casually accomplished, but the magic will help you when you need to.”
Merlin sighs in relief, knowing that he won’t be doing it on a whim. He gives the Gods one last smile and wave before walking down to where the boat would be, or at least he hopes the rickety boat will be there otherwise, he’s not sure how he’s going to get off the island. He’s in luck as he sees it there, waiting for him. He smiles as he steps into the boat and settles in it before using his magic to propel it back to the main land.
Once he steps onto land again, he grins as the land thrums with rejoice, eager to help him in any way. Thankfully, he doesn’t have any needs that it can meet otherwise his first time back will cause an uproar if anyone saw him. He takes a look at his very obvious staff and cringes as he tries to figure out a way to disguise it. As though it can hear his thoughts, the staff disappears and Merlin comprehends that when he needs it, it’ll reappear for him.
He draws his cloak tighter as there is still a chill in the air this early in the morning before picking up his pack again and heads in the direction of Camelot.
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The Magic of Love