Merlyn's p.o.v

Both my children and I are exhausted from the long travel from Ealdor to Camelot. It was hard having to leave my mother and my father figure, Lord Galahad. But, Galahad told me this was necessary. We finally arrive in Camelot to see a crowd up by the palace, we walk to see what's going on. King Uther is there speaking, "Let this serve as a lesson to all. This man, Thomas James Collins, is adjudged guilty of conspiring to use enchantments and magic. And, under the laws of Camelot, I, Uther Pendragon, have decreed that such practices are banned on penalty of death. I pride myself as a fair and just king, but for the crime of sorcery, there is but one sentence I can pass." I hear my daughter speak he's a warlock mama. It's ok sir I'll make you feel better. They both give a nod and from the looks of it, she relaxed him.
Uther raises his arm, then lowers it as a signal to the executioner. Thomas Collins is beheaded. The crowd gasps.
"When I came to this land, this kingdom was mired in chaos, but with the people's help magic was driven from the realm. So I declare a festival to celebrate twenty years since the Great Dragon was captured and Camelot freed from the evil of sorcery. Let the celebrations begin." All of a sudden we heard wailing, it came from Mary Collins, the deceased's mother. "There is only one evil in this land, and it is not magic! It is you! With your hatred and your ignorance! You took my son! And I promise you, before these celebrations are over, you will share my tears. An eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth, a son for a son." She wailed. Uther shouts," Seize her!" She casts a spell and disappears with a whirl of wind and smoke.

I approach a guard my children in tow, "Excuse me, where would I find Gaius, the court physician?"
The guard points to where we need to go, my children right behind me I knock on the door and open to peek inside the physician's quarters. "Hello?" I call out.
Artemis and Apollo follow behind me as we wander in. "Hello, Gaius?" I call out again.
Gaius trips over backwards from the bookshelf stairs and the railing breaks. My eyes glow and I slow time while Artemis uses magic to move a bed under Gaius before he hits the floor.

Getting up Gaius says, "What did you just do?" "Erm" I and my daughter mumble.
"If anyone had seen that..." He responded with. "Er, no! That- that was, that was nothing to do with us. That- that was..." I say trying to help my daughter and me.
"I know what it was! I just want to know where you learned how to do it!" He question. I responded with Nowhere. "So how is it you know magic?" He asks.
"I don't." "Where did you study?... Answer me!" Gaius demanded. "I- I've never studied magic or, or been taught. Neither have my children." I explained.
"Are you lying to me, girl?"
"What do you want me to say?"
"The truth." I tell him," I was born like this, same as my children." "That's impossible, who are you?" "Oh, uh, I have these letters." I pull out the notes from my mother and Galahad and give them to Gaius.
"I don't have my glasses." "I'm Merlyn. Hunith's daughter and these are my children, Artemis and Apollo." He looks confused, "you're not meant to be here till Wednesday?" "It is Wednesday." I all of a sudden hear jumpy isn't he mama? I quietly shush her. Gaius doesn't take notice or if he did, never said anything.
"Ah, right then. You better put your bag in there."

"You- you won't say anything about, erm..." I stuttered out, but he interrupted me," No. Although, Merlin, I should say thank you." Artemis and I nodded before we all went to our shared room. "Ok you both take the bed, I'll lay here. You both need the comfort." But Mama why, you hurt a lot too. I shake my head leaving no room for argument. "Mama?" I turn around looking at my son," Yes dear?" " Our father lives here yes?" I nod "We'll have to try to find him but he said he's a knight, he might not be able to take us in, we're only commoners." They both nod understanding. " He'll be able to show love behind closed doors." They nod still happy with being able to meet him.
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Third person p.o.v

My dear Gaius, I turn to you for I feel lost and alone and don't know who to trust. It is every mother's fate to think her child is special, and yet I would give my life that Merlyn and my grandchildren were not so. Ours is a small village and they are so clearly at odds with people here that, if they were to remain, I fear what would become of them. They need a hand to hold, a voice to guide, and someone who might help them find a purpose for their gifts. I beg you, if you understand a mother's and grandmother's love for her daughter, keep her safe, and may God save all of you. Galahad's letter had said roughly the same thing especially how they both knew how Uther was.

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Merlyn's p.o.v

I am sleeping on the floor next to my children's bed when I hear something call for me. 'Merlyn..... Merlyn Artemis heard it too and looked at me. I motion for her to go back to sleep. She does as she's told. I do the same.

Both myself and my children wake up and head to Gaius chambers.
"I got you three water, you didn't wash last night" "Sorry" we mumble. " Help yourselves to breakfast." We sit down to eat the watery porridge. Gaius intentionally knocks a bucket of water off the table. I stand up and stop it with magic. Artemis moves the water back into the bucket. Gaius gasps and we look at each other. Artemis gently sets the bucket on the table. "How did you do that? Did you incant a spell in your mind?" He asks. We shake our heads," we don't know any spells." " So what did you do there must be something," I mumble it just happens. "The children know more than I am capable of. They have stronger powers than myself."
"Well, we better keep you 3 out of trouble. You can help me until I find some paid work for you, Merlyn. As for the children, I will be tutoring them and seeing what they can do with magic privately. Here." Gaius places a small sac and bottle on the table. "Hollyhock and Feverfew for Lady Percival, and this is for Sir Olwin. He's as blind as a weevil, so warn him not to take it all at once." I nod. "Off you go. And Merlin, I need hardly tell you that the practice of any form of enchantments will get you killed." I eat my sandwich walking down the corridor to deliver the medicine. "Hello sir Olwin, here's your medicine, Gaius says not to drink it all." He nods closing the door.

A little while later we walk to a group of knights tormenting a servant. "Where's the target?" "There, sir?" "It's into the sun?" "But it's not that bright" ". A bit like you then." The knight and his friends laugh. They spend another 5 minutes tormenting the poor servant. "Hey come on that's enough." "What?" "You've had your fun, my friend." "Do I know you?" "I'm Merlyn." He stops and stares. Looking to his buddies he puts on a facade. "Tell me Merlyn do you know how to walk on your knees?" I shake my head. "let me help you" "I wouldn't if I were you." "why what are you going to do to me?" "Oh, you have no idea." "Be my guest! Come on! come on!" I walk up to him and bend his knees to where he's kneeling," how do you like walking on your knees?" He's speechless for a moment, stunned. "I-I could have you thrown in the dungeons for that." I smirk," Who are you, the king?" He shakes his head," No I'm his son Arthur." I'm now stunned and loosen my grip, he takes advantage and puts my arm behind my back. Looks at Artemis and Apollo and motions them to follow us. They followed me and Arthur and we went to his room. "Merlyn, is that you?" I nod wanting to be truthful. "These are our children, that one night in the lake gave you more than what we both thought. I didn't realize you were Prince though." I also make quick work to apologize for publicly humiliating him. He raises his hand and silently tells me to stop. "Was I too harsh?" He asks. All three of us nod our heads. He looks down thoroughly ashamed of what he did and he nods his head. "I will go easier on him. What business are you three coming into Camelot for?" I slightly stiffen, not knowing how Arthur would react and then I hear a voice in my head and I see Arthur stiffen as well. Well, Papa, brother, and I have magic as does Mama. You seem to not have the same thoughts as your father. He seems angry and hides a dark secret about magic.
You just seem sad that all of us are suffering. I see Arthur looking at me with wide eyes. I look at my daughter with a heated gaze. "You and I will be talking later about that. But for now, talk to your Papa about this." She looks at me seeming to apologize without saying or thinking any words. I turned to Arthur and waited for his reaction, "Do you free study witchcraft or is it something like....." he trails off and I shook my head, "No we were born with this. I found out that at least one of our children had his magic when I first started showing. Our daughter, Artemis has some incredible abilities that make her stand out in our family. One of her coolest powers is mind reading. It's like she can pick up on what people are thinking, which helps her understand their feelings and motivations better. She's also got this knack for mental manipulation, so she can help calm someone's nerves or give them a little boost of confidence when they need it.

Then there's her talent for illusion crafting. She can create these amazing illusions that trick the senses, making it easier for her to blend in or distract someone when she needs to. And if she wants to go unnoticed, she can turn invisible at will, which is super handy for sneaking around.

One of my favorites is her ability to travel through shadows. She can slip into them and teleport short distances, which makes escaping tricky situations a breeze. Plus, she can project her emotions onto others, so if someone's feeling anxious, she can help them feel more at ease.

Artemis also has this neat skill for telepathic communication. It's like she can send messages straight to someone's mind without saying a word, which deepens her connections with us. Oh, and she can see and manipulate auras, which gives her insight into how others are feeling and even helps her create protective energy fields.

When it comes to dreams, she's a real pro at dream weaving. She can enter people's dreams and offer comfort or guidance, which is pretty special. Plus, she can talk to plants and animals thanks to her ability called nature's whisper. It's amazing how she understands their needs and gets insights from them.

And let me tell you, her night vision is something else! She can see perfectly in the dark, which makes her a force to be reckoned with during nighttime missions. Finally, she draws strength from the moon with her moonlight empowerment. It's like her powers get a boost when the moon is shining, allowing her to perform some really impressive magic.

All these abilities make Artemis not just powerful but also someone who truly understands and connects with the world around her. It's pretty inspiring to see how she navigates everything with such grace and strength." I paused, waiting for his reaction. He nodded and gestured for me to go on. I continued, "Our son, Apollo, is special in his way. He has a healing touch, which means he can heal injuries and illnesses just by making physical contact. Whether it's a simple cut or something more serious, he can help. He also knows how to use nature for healing, working with plants and herbs to create natural remedies, or tapping into the earth's energies.

On top of that, Apollo has an amazing connection with animals. He can communicate with them, which sometimes helps him gather herbs or guide lost souls. He can channel the energy of spirits, offering healing or guidance by summoning ancestral spirits for wisdom. And when it comes to emotional healing, he can help people let go of negative feelings or trauma, giving them a fresh start.

He uses light manipulation to heal wounds and clear ailments, creating a soothing energy that can ease injuries and even dispel curses. Plus, he can form a protective barrier of light around his friends, absorbing damage and reflecting it at attackers.

Both Artemis and Apollo have their magic at its best during certain times. Apollo shines during the day, while Artemis is stronger at night-fitting since Artemis was born late at night and Apollo arrived just as the sun was rising." He nods his head and starts to finally speak," This is a lot to take in. However, you are my children and my beloved." All three of us smile while he continues, "I will never turn you in nor use this in the future to manipulate you three. And if you will allow me to I would love to be a part of your lives. Unfortunately, I cannot outwardly show you my affections. Not until the current King passes." The children nod in understanding. But they still smile and they have their father. I motion for the kids to go elsewhere in the palace and to behave politely while Arthur and I talk. They listen and run off to go do something with Gaius." you won't punish me too harshly will you?" He looks at me and shakes his head now," No I will not. What I did was wrong I was mistreating my servant and you put me in my place. I always admired what about you when I first met you how strong-minded you were." We both sit and talk for what feels like hours until I have to leave and continue doing my work. I make my way back to Gaius. He looks at me sternly. "You never cease to amaze me! The one thing that someone like you should do is keep your head down, and what do you do? You behave like an idiot." I look down ashamed," I'm sorry," "seems like you managed to go a few strings to not get locked up," I nod and say I'll explain later.

The next morning Artemis Apollo and I woke up and walked down to eat with Gaius. "What did your mother say to you about all three of your gifts?"
"That I was special."
"You three are special. The likes of which I have never seen before." "What do you mean?" "Well, magic requires incantations, spells. It takes years to study. What I saw you do was... elemental, instinctive."
"What's the point if it can't be used?"
"That I do not know. You are a question that has never been posed before, Merlin."
"Did you ever study magic?" "Uther banned all such work twenty years ago." Confused I asked, "Why?" "People used magic for the wrong end at that time. It threw the natural order into chaos. Uther made it his mission to destroy everything from back then, even the dragons." "What? All of them?" Gaius shakes his head, "There was one dragon he chose not to kill, kept it as an example. He imprisoned it in a cave deep beneath the castle where no one could free it. Now, eat up. When you've finished, I need you to take a preparation to Lady Helen. She needs it for her voice."
I nod and quickly finish my breakfast. Artemis opted to go with me and so we made her way up to Lady Helen's room. We quietly made our way into her room and then heard "What are you doing in here." We both turn around and see Lady Helen. "I was asked to deliver this to you." I hand her the potion and we both make our way out of the room closing the door behind us. Mama, I didn't like the way I felt around her. It feels like she is dark magic. Very dark. I nod my head but say nothing and we make our way down the stairs. Both Artemis and I pass a woman with long brown hair and she quickly stops us for a moment," I'm Guinevere, but most people call me Gwen. I'm the Lady Morgana's maid." I smiled, put my hand out shook her hand, and introduced myself, " Right. I'm Merlyn. And this little one right here is my daughter Artemis. But most people call me an idiot." She laughed," No, no, no. I saw what you did. It was so brave. And it's so nice to meet you Artemis." Artemis nods politely and Curtsies. "no, it was stupid," I replied. Well "I'm glad you walked away. You weren't going to beat him." I shook my head, "no I could have beaten him." He looks at me confused," Really? No offense but you don't look the type to win in a fight." I laugh off her comment, "I know I may not look it but I was trained to fight. Before I came here. My father figure liked me to be able to defend myself so he taught me quite a few tricks." She nods and understanding. " Well, I'm glad you stood up to him." I stand confused "Really?" She nods, "Arthur is a bully, and everyone thought you were a real hero." Surprise I start looking around. "Well thank you I guess. It was lovely meeting you, if you'll excuse me I have some more things to do for Gaius." She nods and we part ways.
We start walking back and I hear Artemis in my head. She's a good one mama. She'll be a nice friend for us to have. She has a good heart. I nod and we continue making our way back to Gaius.
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All of us are asleep, the kids in their bed and I'm on the floor. All of a sudden I hear it. Merlyn....... Merlyn......  Artemis here's it too. We both get up and head to the calling voice. Merlin...  "Merlyn." We both hear. As we descend the stairs it keeps getting louder and louder," Merlyn........ Merlyn......." Both Artemis and I make it downstairs into a cave. "Merlyn." The voice laughs. "Where are you?" I called out, scanning the sky. Mama, this being is good. We must listen to him. He is very wise and knows great about our situation.

The Great Dragon, Kilgharrah, descended majestically, landing in front of us. "I'm here! How small you are for such a great destiny. Hello to you Merlyn and Artemis."

"Why? What do you mean? What destiny?" I asked, confusion etched on his face.
Mama, he means you and Papa's destiny. He allowed me to read his mind.

"Your daughter is right, Merlyn. Your gift was given to you for a reason," Kilgharrah explained.

"So there is a reason?" I  replied, his curiosity piqued.

"Arthur is the Once and Future King who will unite the land of Albion," Kilgharrah stated.

"Right," I acknowledged, trying to grasp the weight of the words.

"But he faces many threats from friend and foe alike," Kilgharrah continued.

"I don't see what this has to do with me," I  protested.

"Everything. Without you, Arthur will never succeed. Without you, there will be no Albion," Kilgharrah insisted.

Papa will need our help mama. Everything he and we will do will be for magic and the land of Albion.

"No. No, you've got this wrong," I countered.

"There is no right or wrong, only what is and what isn't," Kilgharrah replied. "None of us can choose our destiny, Merlyn, and none of us can escape it."

"No. No way. No. No. There must be another Arthur because this one's an idiot," I said, shaking his head in disbelief.
I hear a laugh in my head. Mama, papa has always been like that you just have to find a way to break that down. I still always act like an idiot but he'll need you to guide him.

"you may be right but, perhaps it's your destiny to change that," Kilgharrah suggested.

With that, Kilgharrah took to the skies, his wings casting a shadow over us.

"Wait! Wait! Wait, stop! No, I—I need to know more!" I called after him, desperation in his voice. Don't worry Mama we'll see more of him. Will need his help with the adventures. I nod my head hoping that she is correct.

Gaius entered the room, his expression a mix of disbelief and irritation. He paused, taking in the sight of the disarray, and then noticed the two small figures nestled together on the bed.

"Oi!" he called out, trying to keep his voice steady despite the chaos.

Merlyn stirred awake, blinking against the light, and glanced over at her sleeping children, Artemis and Apollo, curled up under a shared blanket.

"Have you seen the state of this room?!" Gaius exclaimed, gesturing dramatically at the mess surrounding them.

Merlyn rubbed the back of her neck and replied, "It just happens."

"By magic?" Gaius quipped, raising an eyebrow.

"Yeah," Merlyn said with a hint of a grin, trying not to disturb the children.

Gaius sighed, crossing his arms. "Yes. Well, you can clear it up without magic. And then I want you to get me some herbs: henbane, wormwood, and sorrel. And deliver this to Morgana. Poor girl's suffering from nightmares."

With a swift motion, Gaius tossed a pile of clothes at Merlyn, narrowly missing Artemis's head.

Merlyn caught them, a wry smile creeping onto her face as she looked at her children. "Mmm, I know the feeling."

Merlyn and Artemis walk through the Griffin Landing and up some curved steps to Morgana's Chambers. Merlyn enters the open door followed by Artemis and stares at Morgana as she walks behind her changing screen. "You know, I've been thinking about Arthur. I wouldn't touch him with a lance pole. Pass me that dress, will you, Gwen?"

Merlyn paused uncertainly before fetching the dress. She glanced back at her daughter, Artemis, who was practicing her swordplay nearby, her focus unwavering as she struck at an imaginary opponent.

Morgana began undressing. "I mean, the man's a total jouster. And just because I'm the King's ward, that doesn't mean I have to accompany him to the feast, does it?"

Merlyn placed the gown on the screen, keeping an eye on Artemis as she gracefully moved through her drills.

"Well, does it?" Morgana asked, looking over her shoulder.

Merlyn shook her head, still watching Artemis. "If he wants me to go, then he should invite me, and he hasn't. Besides, I'm more concerned about Artemis. She's been working so hard on her techniques; I want to make sure she gets the recognition she deserves."

Merlyn turned back to Morgana. "We'll see if she can impress the knights when we go to the feast."

Morgana smiled. "I'd like to see that. It's about time someone showed those knights what women can do."

Merlyn tried to figure a way out of her situation. "So do you know what that means?" Morgana continued.

Merlyn shook her head again.

"Where are you?"

Morgana looked over the screen, and Merlyn held up one of her cloaks to hide her face.

"Here," she said, peeking through the neck of the cloak.

"It means I'm going by myself," Morgana declared.

Merlyn put the cloak down and started to leave. "I need some help with this fastening."

Just then, Morgana stepped out from behind the screen and squeaked in surprise upon seeing Merlyn.

"Oh! I'm sorry! I was told to give you this for your nightmares," Merlyn said quickly, raising her hands in apology. "I didn't mean to intrude. I'm Merlyn."

Morgana's mouth widened in recognition. "Oh, I know you! You stood up to Arthur."

She and Gwen smiled at each other. "'Bout time, too. Someone had to do it."

"Well, I'm glad I could be the one to do that. I was taught back in my little village to stand up for myself, and I know how to do hand-to-hand and use swords. And so has Artemis."

"A very good thing to be taught! Not every woman is allowed to be taught this, so you are very fortunate. Are you going to the feast?" I  look hesitant and start to shake my head," Probably not, my children don't have anybody to look after them. Gaius will be more than likely at the feast. And even if I can go I would more than likely be serving. Along with my children." Morgana looks shocked and then starts shaking her head," No, no, no, absolutely not. You are a woman of great beauty. You shall be my guest." I start to shake my head but Morgana stops me," I will not take no for an answer. You should ask Gwen I am extremely stubborn." Gwen pipes up," Oh yes I would not fight on her with her." I eventually relent and nod my head. She squeals, "good. Do you have anything to wear?" I shook my head," no, I only came with a very small bit of clothing." Morgana looks surprised and before she can say anything I continue," I would like to be able to buy clothes for myself and my children but I don't have a job yet I'm looking for work right now." Morgana then speaks," Well then your daughter can have my clothing when I was a young child, and you can have some of my clothes as well some of the ones that I don't use anymore. It would be such a waste and I would be so honored if you would take my clothing." I start to shake my head and decline her offer," I couldn't possibly do that that is way too generous." Morgana hears nothing of it and says," Please it's what you deserve. The least of it at least. Think of it as a gift, one that you do not have to repay."  I looked at her gratefully. I went to say thanks and she stopped me," don't I'm your friend," she said. I nod
"So, it's whether I wear this little tease, or give them a night they'll remember."

The grand hall was alive with laughter and the clinking of goblets, filled with the warm glow of candlelight as nobles mingled amidst the lavish decorations. Long tables were laden with delectable dishes, and the air was thick with the aroma of roasted meats and sweet pastries.

Merlyn stood at the edge of the festivities, her heart racing with a mixture of excitement and trepidation. She wore a stunning floor-length blue satin dress that flowed elegantly to the ground. The black trimming accentuated her figure, while silver stitching gleamed subtly in the light, tracing delicate patterns along the edges. The off-the-shoulder sleeves gave her an air of sophistication, but the weight of her secret felt heavy on her shoulders.

As Arthur moved through the crowd, his gaze fell upon Merlyn, and he paused, captivated by her beauty. He made his way toward her, a charming smile spreading across his face.

"Merlyn!" he called out, his voice cutting through the chatter. "You look radiant tonight."

She felt a warmth spread across her cheeks as she met his gaze, her heart fluttering. "Thank you, Your Majesty. It's a lovely evening, isn't it?"

Arthur stepped closer, his eyes sparkling with genuine admiration. "The evening is lovely, but your dress truly steals the show. The blue brings out the color of your eyes, and the silver stitching is a perfect touch. It suits you beautifully."

Merlyn felt a rush of gratitude and surprise at his words, but her heart sank a little. "I appreciate that, Arthur. I wanted to wear something special for the feast, but sometimes I wonder if I truly belong here among all... this." She gestured to the opulence surrounding them.

Arthur's expression softened. "You belong here as much as anyone, Merlyn. Your spirit and strength are what truly matter. I admire how you care for your children and still find the time to be here tonight."

Her gaze dropped slightly, shadows crossing her features. "It's not easy. I have twin children to raise." 

Merlyn swallowed hard, the fear pooling in her stomach. "But we can't. If anyone found out... the consequences would be dire. They could be in danger, and so could you."

"I would do anything to protect you and them," Arthur said earnestly, stepping closer and lowering his voice. "But this secrecy—it tears at me. I want to be their father, not just in the shadows."

"I know," Merlyn replied, her voice trembling slightly. "But we have to keep them safe. I'm just trying to give them a better life, but every day I fear for their safety. If word gets out—"

"No," Arthur interrupted, his gaze fierce. "We cannot let fear dictate our lives. If we keep our bond hidden, it's a life lived in chains. I want to find a way to support you and the twins without putting you at risk."

Merlyn looked up, her heart aching with the weight of their situation. "But we are worlds apart. You have a kingdom to lead, and I'm just a commoner trying to survive."

"Just because I am a prince doesn't mean I don't understand the struggle," Arthur replied, his voice steady. "We all have battles to fight, whether on the field or within our hearts. I often wish I could escape the weight of my title and live a simpler life."

"I wish for that too, sometimes," she said, a faint smile breaking through her worry. "But I suppose we must find strength in our paths—for their sake."

Arthur smiled warmly, a sense of resolve shining in his eyes. "Indeed, we must. And I hope you know you're not alone in this. They are my children, and I want to be a part of their lives, even if it must remain a secret for now."

As they shared a moment of understanding, the tension of their secret hung between them, yet a sense of belonging washed over Merlyn. Here, amidst the grandeur of the feast, she felt the weight of her choice to come, knowing that while their love was forbidden, it was also unbreakable.

Gaius had come up a few moments later, a stern look on his face as he approached. "Merlyn. Remember, you're here to work."

Narrators p.o.v.

She nodded her head, ready to dive into her tasks for the day, but before she could take a step, she felt a hand on her arm. Turning, she found Morgana standing there, her expression resolute. "Not today, Gaius. Today she's with me."

Merlyn smiled, grateful for the reprieve, and let Morgana drag her away from the duties that awaited. Morgana seemed to have a plan, and Merlyn was more than willing to follow wherever she led.

Meanwhile, in the castle's inner chambers, Mary (Helen) hummed softly at her vanity table, oblivious to the dark presence looming nearby. As she walked past Bronwen's lifeless body, a chill ran through the air. Celebratory horns echoed through the halls, signaling King Uther's entrance, and soon everyone found their places at the grand tables, anticipation buzzing in the atmosphere.

Uther stood, commanding attention as he addressed the court. "We have enjoyed twenty years of peace and prosperity. It has brought the kingdom and myself many pleasures, but few can compare with the honor of introducing Lady Helen of Mora."

Applause erupted, filling the hall with enthusiasm. As the music began, Uther and the court settled into their seats, the atmosphere shifting to one of celebration. Helen stepped forward, her voice rising in song, enchanting the audience. But soon, the members of the court began to nod off, lulled into a deep slumber by the haunting melody.

Merlyn watched in horror as cobwebs began to form over the enchanted sleepers, a dark magic weaving its way through the hall. Her eyes darted to Helen as she continued her song, and Merlyn noticed her gaze fixating on Arthur. A sense of foreboding washed over her.

With a swift motion, Helen pulled a dagger from her sleeve, her intentions clear. Time seemed to slow as Merlyn realized what was about to happen. In a split second, she conjured her magic, calling the chandelier overhead to fall, aiming to disrupt the deadly throw.

The chandelier crashed down just as Helen raised her arm, the sound echoing like thunder. The court members jolted awake, confusion spreading among them as they struggled to pull the cobwebs off. Uther and Arthur stood up, their expressions shifting from surprise to alarm as they spotted Mary Collins lying on the floor, unconscious.

As if in a dream, Mary raised herself just enough to throw the dagger at Arthur, her aim precise. Instinctively, Merlyn reached out with her magic, slowing down time to create a moment of clarity in the chaos. She sprinted toward Arthur, pulling him out of harm's way just as the dagger sliced into the wood of his chair.

They fell to the floor in a tangle, the world around them moving in slow motion. Merlyn felt the rush of adrenaline as the dagger clattered harmlessly to the side. The moment snapped back into focus, and as the court woke, Uther and Arthur stared at her, their eyes wide with shock.

"What just happened?" Uther demanded, his voice a mix of anger and disbelief.

Arthur looked at Merlyn, confusion etched on his face. "Merlyn, you saved me."

Uther stood before the court, his gaze fixed on Merlyn, a mix of gratitude and authority in his eyes.

"You saved my boy's life," he proclaimed, his voice resonating through the hall. "A debt must be repaid."

Merlyn shifted uncomfortably, her cheeks flushing slightly. "Oh, well..."

"Don't be so modest," Uther continued, dismissing her humility with a wave of his hand. "You shall be rewarded."

"No, honestly, you don't have to, Your Highness," Merlyn replied, her voice barely above a whisper, the weight of the king's gaze making her nervous.

"Absolutely," Uther insisted, a smile breaking across his face. "This merits something quite special."

Merlyn hesitated, searching for the right words. "Well..."

With a flourish, Uther made his announcement, "You shall be rewarded with a position in the royal household. You shall be Prince Arthur's maidservant."

A ripple of applause surged through the court, echoing off the stone walls.

Arthur, standing beside his father, looked taken aback. "Father!" he exclaimed, his tone a blend of surprise and it seemed like he was trying to hide his excitement. I give him a look to hide said excitement.

The soft glow of candlelight filled Merlyn's chamber, casting flickering shadows on the stone walls. In the corner, her twin children, Artemis and Apollo, played quietly, their laughter echoing softly in the stillness of the room.

A gentle knock at the door disrupted the peaceful moment, and Gaius entered, a knowing smile on his face.

"Seems you're a hero," he remarked.

Merlyn looked up, disbelief etched across her features. "Hard to believe, isn't it?"

"Not at all. I knew it from the moment I met you—when you saved my life, remember?"

"But... that was magic," she replied, her voice tinged with uncertainty.

Gaius nodded, his expression serious. "And now, it seems, we've finally found a use for it."

"What do you mean?" Merlyn asked, her brow furrowing in confusion.

"I saw how you saved Arthur's life," Gaius answered, his eyes piercing into hers.

"Oh, no," she breathed, a mix of dread and affection swirling within her.

"Perhaps that's its purpose," Gaius suggested gently.

Merlyn sighed, a tumult of love and frustration flickering in her eyes. "My destiny."

"Indeed," Gaius said, pulling a cloth-wrapped book from his satchel. "This book was given to me when I was your age, but I have a feeling it will be of more use to you than it was to me."

He handed her the book, and she unlatched it, peering inside.

"But this is a book of magic," she said with a snort, skepticism coloring her tone.

"Which is why you must keep it hidden," Gaius urged, his voice steady.

"I will study every word," Merlyn vowed, determination rising within her.

As she spoke, Artemis and Apollo glanced up from their play. Artemis, her eyes bright with a knowing glimmer, focused her thoughts on her mother. *Mum, are you worried about him?*

Merlyn felt the gentle nudge of her daughter's telepathic voice, a whisper echoing in her mind. She smiled, grateful for the bond they shared. A little, my love. It's complicated.

You're strong, Artemis reassured her, her thoughts clear and comforting. You'll figure it out.

Merlyn's heart swelled with pride and love for her children. They sensed the weight of her responsibilities, the conflict between her duty to Arthur and her love for them.

Suddenly, a firm knock on the door broke the moment.

"Merlyn, Prince Arthur wants you right away," a guard called from outside.

"Your destiny's calling," Gaius said, his tone encouraging. "You'd better find out what he wants."

Merlyn hesitated, casting a lingering look at Artemis and Apollo. She steeled herself for the encounter with Arthur, her heart a tumult of love and frustration.