Archive of Our Own

Chapter Text

"Hey... Not bad."

Merlin laughed, fingers hovering over water as he watched the waves shift into a whirlpool, deepening into a purplish color before he clenched his fist. Immediately, the water calmed - righting itself so it was still and blue once more.

"It's more of a party trick... but fun," he said, glancing up at where Nimueh was watching with an air of approval. "Yesterday I lifted the whole moat into the air," he reminded her. Nimueh snorted, though they both knew it was impressive. "Do you think I'm ready to go back to Kali?" he asked, leaning back into the grass. Nimueh hummed, walking over so she was directly above him, looking down.

"Almost... Though I worry being around her might be more of a hindrance," she warned and knelt down on the ground next to him to poke his forehead "Human," she said simply. Merlin pursed his lips. "Is it possible to bring back the gates without being around any demons?" she asked. He shook his head.

"No... Kali always said they appear where the largest concentration of demons are. So, technically speaking, for me to even fix them I would need to be around hundreds of demons," he said with a grimace, swirling his finger so the water spun around. "Could I really lose access to my magic so easily?" he asked, stomach twisting at the thought. Using his magic had become... cathartic in a way. It felt like breathing right after being forced into water. Things just came easily. It was natural. Relaxing. A part of himself he hadn't even known he was hiding. He found himself suddenly understanding the hatred of demons among humans. After all, if tapping into his demon side meant losing access to this ... Well. Maybe there was something wrong with it after all. 

He almost always immediately felt guilty afterwards, but the thought still wormed its way into the back of his mind.

"I'm not sure," Nimueh said and tucked a leg under her, "I must admit I have never met a cambion who dabbled in magic."

Merlin wondered vaguely if she had ever met a cambion in general, but decided there were more important questions. Sighing, he withdrew his hand, letting the water go back to its normal form as he turned to look at the sorceress.

"Thank you," he said, brows furrowing as he tried his best to think of how to make his voice as genuine as possible. "You didn't have to do any of this."

Nimueh tilted her head. After a few seconds of studying him over, she smiled and reached up to tap his chin fondly.

"You're annoying," she told him and lowered her hand, "But... not quite as horrid as I had once thought. Perhaps our time spent together was not wasted."

"Aw, how sweet of you." Merlin snorted and laid back into the grass, inhaling the sharp scent of honeysuckle and moss. "You're a bit of a bone yourself," he said. Nimueh stared down at him. "Uh... That's not a human one?" he asked. Nimueh shook her head. "Honestly, how do you even communicate?" he asked with a click of his tongue. There was a pause as Nimueh seemed to be patiently waiting for something... Granted, she was correct because there was something Merlin dearly wanted to ask her, but he was having trouble finding the right words.

"Has... Arthur written to you about becoming his court sorceress?" he asked casually.

"I haven't heard a word from Camelot since he left with the others," Nimueh told him. It had been a solid month since the initial trip. Seir and Kane had taken Mordred home, Balinor disappeared once more, and Arthur had taken the rest of the humans back to Camelot. Lancelot had been less than thrilled to leave Merlin behind, but fully supported Merlin staying to learn how to better his magic. Eventually, Merlin convinced him that Arthur may need his help back in Camelot... Or so he had thought. There hadn't really been much communication since. Well, on Arthur's end anyway. No word that he had taken Uther off the throne. That Morgause wasn't using her angelic wiles to mess up Arthur's rule. Nothing.

Which was probably fair... Merlin had told him to take care of his own problems after all. He had just figured Nimueh might get an update was all.

"I'm sure he'll hold up his end of the bargain," Merlin reassured her. Nimueh tilted her head, eyes dancing over his expression.

"Perhaps you can ask him tonight," she prompted. Merlin internally winced. There was an underhanded scolding there. Nimueh had cautioned him against dreamwalking. It was an incubi trait, which wasn't exactly helpful for keeping him in touch with his human side... but really. If Arthur was going to completely cut off communication, could Merlin really be expected to just... sit there?

"I use my magic," he said, propping himself up on his elbows, "To make it so he doesn't ever know I'm there."

"You're getting better at balancing your demon abilities and magic," she told him with a shrug, "But you're still playing with fire. The least you could do is make your gamble worthwhile."

"Seeing him is worthwhile!" Merlin objected immediately and then flushed "Even if he doesn't know I'm there," he said, letting his words grow quiet towards the end. Nimueh rolled her eyes, but didn't argue as she stood up, dusting her dress off of dirt before glancing over her shoulder towards the ruins. A frown touched her lips as she stared at the skyline for a moment, but she quickly shook her head.

"Well, I'm going to gather some berries," she told him and swished her hand so a cloak appeared from the air, "I'll leave you to spy," she added, voice dripping with exasperation. Merlin hissed at her in annoyance as she walked away, wrinkling his nose. Nimueh was not a favorite human... Well. Not right now at least. He couldn't ignore the fact that she taught him about magic and other human things. Still, she was annoying . Most humans were, but she was an impressive amount of annoying even among the norm.

He missed Gwen. Gwen was nice... And Gaius . Even though Gaius was utterly terrifying with his casual disapproval and ability to mend fragile human bodies, Merlin found he had been a good companion to help him navigate the murkiness of humanity. And, of course, Lancelot. He missed Lancelot. And Morgana. And Boy-Gwen. And Gwaine. And even Leon... Though he was pretty sure the feeling most certainly wasn't mutual. And...

" Anwalédug."

Out of all the spells Nimueh had taught him... this was probably the most useful. He hadn't mastered it within the real world... but within the realm of dreams and visions it held up well. He glanced down at his hands, giving a low hum of approval as the opacity of his skin seemed to drain away, leaving only a blurred outline among the grass. He glanced up to the end of the lake, noting the long figure sitting at the bank.

"Arthur," he greeted, though the words seemed to disappear from the world the second they left his mouth. Arthur didn't respond. Another sign the spell was working. Merlin sighed. He had tried a few times to work up the courage to actually visit Arthur in his dreams. However, every time he came the spell seemed to take over him... fear curling in his stomach and fingers going numb with a sense of overwhelming nervousness. This worked though... sort of. "You look horrible," Merlin frowned as he stepped closer to where Arthur was sitting.

Merlin had tried to figure out what exactly was going on in Camelot based on Arthur's dreams, but each time... Well, Arthur just wasn't dreaming about whatever was happening in his life. Or it was vague enough so that Merlin was left completely in the dark. Quite honestly, Merlin was a little confused as to how he could get inside this dream at all, considering it was the middle of the day and Arthur had absolutely no reason to be asleep.

"I know," Arthur said suddenly and Merlin jumped. "I look horrible."

Could he hear him? Merlin glanced down at his hands - panicked before realizing Arthur was staring at his reflection in the lake in front of him. He waited.

"I don't know what to do," he said, voice going low enough that Merlin had to lean in to hear him. "Where are you?" he asked, standing up to pace. Merlin frowned. "Do you even know what time it is here? It's the middle of the bloody day, and I am still drinking bloody sleeping drafts to try and see you, angel," he muttered. Merlin blinked. This was new. He had noticed that Arthur always seemed to be asleep whenever Merlin tried to visit him, but... It hadn't occurred to him that was on purpose. "You don't find it the least bit concerning you haven't heard from anyone? Or you just don't care?" he asked, pacing up and down the bank, sending water spraying everywhere. Merlin frowned. "It isn't her fault... They tricked her," Arthur muttered and ran a hand through his hair.

"Tricked who?" Merlin asked. His words were immediately sucked from the air. Oh. Right. "Dangas," he whispered and watched as his skin rippled for a moment, color slowly sinking back into place. "Arthur," he greeted and the prince spun around. "What's wrong?"

A pause.

"...are you real?" he asked and Merlin nodded. Arthur considered this for a moment before promptly walking over, grabbing his shirt, and shoving him into the lake. Typical.

Arthur's dreams were obnoxiously detailed so he wasn't terribly surprised when he felt the water actually soaking into his clothes, cold and demanding. He glared before raising his hand in return. A ball of water rose and splashed Arthur in the face.

Now, Merlin was no expert on how to handle humans or relationships... or human relationships, but based on Arthur's face this was a particularly bad move (which seemed unfair because he definitely started it). This theory was only further amplified by the dream changing around them, morphing from a lake to Arthur's chambers. Merlin glanced around, but his attention was soon diverted by a sword being pointed at his neck.

"Could I kill you in here?" Arthur asked darkly. Merlin jutted out his chin.

"Try." He challenged. Arthur didn't move. "It's nice to see you too," he finally said and Arthur threw down the sword in disgust. "You said you were in trouble. What's wrong?" Merlin asked impatiently, stepping towards him. Arthur pushed him away. "I - are you hurt?" he asked and grabbed Arthur's arm. "You were just complaining that I was gone and now that I'm here you don't want to talk to me?"

"I forgot how pissed I am at you," Arthur muttered. "What even was that? You just appeared? Were you here the whole time?" he asked. Merlin opened his mouth. This felt like a trap no matter what the answer. Arthur narrowed his eyes. "You were, weren't you? Just fucking hiding?" he asked and shoved him again. "Coward," he hissed. Merlin rolled his eyes. For the love of the cursed. This guy.

"I missed you too."

"Oh?" Arthur asked, raising an eyebrow as he collapsed onto his bed, "Better be careful, Emrys. After all, those aren't genuine feelings," he said bitterly, lying on his back to stare at the canopy above him. Merlin sighed. Yeah... He probably deserved that. "That doesn't matter. I need your help," Arthur continued, his voice suddenly devoid of any anger and instead tinted with an air of resignation.

"What's wrong?"

"Mordred," Arthur said quietly and Merlin let his eyebrows furrow together at that. Mordred was with Kali now, right? He had assumed no news was good news on that front. "You were right about Morgause... and maybe angels in general," he sighed, running a hand over his face. Merlin stepped closer to the bed to look down at him. "She's convinced Morgana it's her right to rule due to her bloodline."

"Her being an angel doesn't put her above your father's blood-"

"Well, it turns out she has that too," Arthur said. Merlin stared. "I wondered why my father could ever be so cavalier in killing all those magic users when the fault remained his. There's my answer. How could Uther Pendragon be corrupt when he attracted the heart of an angel?" he said, wiggling his fingers sarcastically. Merlin closed his eyes. Damnit.

"Morgana's father wasn't Gorlois."

"Nope," Arthur said and sat up, "She's my older sister," he muttered. Merlin paused.

"Your… sister," he repeated and frowned. "So, she's... You're part angel?" He asked, a little aghast. Arthur groaned. "All this time you've been Boy-Morgana," he gasped. Arthur stared at him, the annoyance coming off him in waves.

"Half-sister, Merlin. We aren't the same person. Different mothers," he said tightly. Merlin shrugged. If he said so. "Technically, the fact she is illegitimate should dismiss her from the throne entirely, but given that she's part angel... I guess that means it is a sign from God that she is Camelot's rightful heir," he said and buried his face in his hands. "Which I might even buy if it wasn't for Morgause," he added, twitching. Merlin bit his tongue. Okay... Alright. He tried to piece what he had together. His earlier conversation with Morgana made sense now. She found out about her heritage and Morgause manipulated her into trying to steal the throne. Okay... But Mordred knew too. That must have been what he was trying to tell him before. Only Merlin wasn't sure what Mordred had to do with anything involving angels and humans.

"Are you okay?" he repeated finally, letting the other question remain in the air. "Have they hurt you?"

Arthur's eyes moved towards him. Merlin felt a little guilt at seeing such wariness looking back at him. Like he truly wasn't sure whether he should answer that or not. Finally, he opened his mouth only for there to be a low rumbling. Merlin froze. He wasn't sure if that was coming from Arthur's world or his own. This was immediately answered when Arthur's dream vanished, leaving Merlin in mass of black as the rumbling grew louder. He went to call out to Arthur, but he was gone too.

"Merlin."

And that definitely wasn't his voice.

"Merlin."

And the rumbling wasn't gone either... Maybe it hadn't been coming from where Arthur was after all?

"Emrys, wake up!"

Merlin jolted up. The water in front of him was whirling dangerously, splashing against the banks of the moat as waves, despite being confined to such a small space. Merlin scrambled up, trying to figure out where Nimueh's voice had been coming from. He heard a string of curses followed by some hissing that was... Well. Curses, but like... the magical kind. Not the fun kind. Slipping, he tried to get up, but there was a torrent of rain that fell onto the ground, flooding the ruins. Merlin cursed.

Mother. Fucking. Angels.

Merlin growled lowly. Lesser known fact about angels: they have their own circles. Or, well, technically they were called spheres because they were pompous pricks, but same idea. They're named after planets because angels are stupid and obviously they had to crow that they had planets or whatever. The point was that Morgause smelled disgustingly of the sixth sphere: Jupiter. Aka, the 'Justice' tribe of angels. As usual, there was a double standard. When angels cry 'justice', it means the punishment was earned. When demons yell 'revenge', then suddenly their wrath is unreasonable and excessive. In truth... There was much overlap between angels and demons. Demons of wrath were particularly good fighters who were able to use the Earth to their advantage... A fun little skill that Merlin, who was never officially accepted into the fifth circle, never got to have. Angels of Jupiter were particularly good fighters, who used the sky to their advantage.

So who could this possibly be?

"MORGAUSE!" he shouted and growled lowly. From nowhere, a hand shot out to yank him down.

"Don't you dare ," Nimueh's voice hissed at him. Merlin blinked. "If you change into your demon form now, then all the work we did on your magic will be lost-"

"I can balance it!" he told her, raising his voice to yell over the rain and thunder. A strike of lightning hit one of the ruins, sending rocks crumbling down into bits and pieces by then. Nimueh tugged him away, hands slipping with the rain. "You're hurt," he added, noting the blood that was getting washed away from the side of her cheek. Nimueh ignored him.

"You don't have much time!" she shouted and threw her hand forward so that a blue orb glowed out in front of her. Merlin stared. This felt familiar... It was familiar. He had seen this before he was sure. It was at the tip of his tongue. Nimueh kept focus, letting the orb grow bigger as it seemed to suck the rain and lightning from the sky. "I taught you everything I know," she continued, not looking at him. "She wants you dead for it."

"Morgause?" Merlin asked and a low rumble answered. "I'm part demon, she can't kill me-"

"Are you sure about that?" Nimueh asked, flinching a bit as the orb continued to suck the wind and lightning around them. Merlin opened his mouth and promptly closed it. No. He wasn't sure. Not anymore. "Go to Arthur. Bring back the gates. That's clearly what she's worried you'll do."

"I need to go to Kali to bring back the gates-"

"No!" Nimueh hissed and gave a sharp intake. Merlin rose his hands to help her, but she only shook her head fiercely. "Camelot. Arthur. Look at me," she said and Merlin forced himself to meet her eyes. " Go," she told him. Merlin wanted to argue that he couldn't leave her with this giant ball of chaos growing bigger and bigger by the second. He stared, trying to figure out a way to grab her without breaking her concentration when she let out a sharp intake of pain as another strike of lightning fell. "Please," she breathed out, "If Arthur isn't king... my people don't get to live in peace," she managed.

"Will you be okay?" Merlin asked... Because he was more human now, and humans asked stupid questions. Nimueh nodded because she was also human, and humans gave stupid, untrue answer. Then, in true, stupidly human-fashion... Merlin believed her and turned away, racing to the edge of the moat and diving into the rickety old row boat. He tapped the side, using his magic to spring him across the water. He wanted to switch to his demon form. It would be faster, surely, but Nimueh's words still whispered in the back of his mind.

"I taught you everything I know," her voice echoed as he kept sprinting through the woods. He had made it past the storm when the realization hit.

Morgana's vision. His stomach dropped. He couldn't remember the specifics of it. Yelling. Fire. Exorcisms. Morgause. Kilgharrah. Did he see what happened here? He needed to -

A bang echoed loudly, causing a sharp pain to hit his ears as a force threw him back. The world rang as he let out a sharp cry of pain. Nimueh's spell... The orb must have burst. He groaned, rolling over to see smoke rising off in the distance. Nimueh. He shrugged away the pain as he stared at where the rest of the ruins seemed to crumble away. He closed his eyes.

Arthur. He needed to get to Arthur. Fast.

Merlin tried a few times to get into Morgana's dreams, but nothing was going through. Arthur must still be awake too because Merlin couldn't find a dream of his to enter either. He was getting a little irritated by the whole thing right up until he entered the citadel. The pyres. There were about a dozen of them laid about, freshly prepared with hay and sticks. That wasn't the disturbing part though. The disturbing part was the charred ground underneath. Remnants of a previous pyre, that had already been used. Feeling his heart pick up, Merlin grabbed a woman passing by.

"What happened here?" he asked, spinning her around. The woman jerked away from him, stumbling away. "I - miss?" he asked, trying not to sound panicked. "Was there an execution?" he asked. The woman murmured something before looking up at the castle warily.

"The heretics," she said solemnly with a nod. "The angels burned them."

Merlin felt his stomach drop.

"Heretics? Who? Who were the heretics?" he asked, reaching forward to grab her with both hands. He couldn't find his incubi powers among all the panic to persuade her so he settled with giving her a slight shake.

"Uther's men!" she sniffed, shoving him off. "They served a false-king," she said solemnly. Merlin stared. "He tried to put his son on the throne. That makes him a traitor," she explained. Merlin spluttered, trying to reach for his pocket of control. Alright. Uther's men. That didn't mean Arthur.

"And where is his son? Did they burn Uther too?" He asked as an afterthought, but the woman had already turned away. "Did you - ? Hey!" he asked, frustrated. He felt the urge to tap into his demon abilities again, but pushed the thought away. No. No, he couldn't. Not after all the hard work he did learning to repress them for his magic's sake. Taking a long breath, he spun back towards the castle. He couldn't sense Morgause's presence. Not that it mattered. He had this under control.

Entering the castle was hardly even a challenge. As he suspected, Morgana on the throne meant nobody batted an eye at magic. Also, well, nobody was able to see him at all.

" Anwalédug."

Magic was pretty useful.

He had just undid the enchantment when approaching the dungeons. The place seemed relatively empty, but Merlin wasn't really sure where else to look. Perhaps Arthur's chambers? Arthur wasn't asleep for Merlin to give much of an answer.

"Halt!" a voice said, and Merlin froze as the point of a spear was jammed up against his back. Right. Maybe he undid the invisibility spell a bit too soon. "What is your order of business?" the guard asked. Merlin looked him over for a moment. He considered.

"What do people normally say when you ask them that?" he asked. The guard blinked.

"I... what?" he asked. Merlin shrugged. "That they're bringing food for a prisoner."

"Oh. Well. I'm bringing food for a prisoner."

"But you have no food," the guard objected with a frown, "And you just asked me what people normally say," he tacked on. Merlin scowled.

"Well, I was just asking to see if it was the same as what I was going to say," he argued, crossing his arms. "And I do too have food."

"Where?"

"Mind your business," Merlin said with a pout. The guard blinked a few times at him before looking at Merlin's empty hands and then back to his face. "Look," Merlin said and used his index finger to push the tip of his spear down. "I don't want us to get off on the wrong talon here-"

"Foot."

"Excuse me?"

"You don't want us to get off on the wrong foot," the guard repeated. Ah. Right. Foot. Humans didn't have talons, did they? How fun. "Who are you exactly?" the guard asked and Merlin smiled. He could work with this.

Sure enough. His charm appeared to work even without his incubi imbued powers.

"...I mean, what do any of us even know about it, right? We just kind of have to take their word for it," the guard sniffed ten minutes later. Merlin silently passed him a bit of cloth to blow his nose.

"I see," he said, patting his arm, "You yearn for answers to things that scare you so you cling onto the concept of religion and faith. When someone challenges that concept, then you become afraid," he said. The guard sobbed harder. "It's okay. For all we know you very well might be right. There is such a thing as demons, angels, and Hell after all. Perhaps the rest of your beliefs hold true," he shrugged, "Well, aside from angels being the good guys. That's wrong," he added bluntly. The guard blearily blinked up at him. "But perhaps you need to reconcile yourself with the fact you might be wrong about other things too... And that's okay," Merlin continued calmly. "The most you can do is decide what the best course of action is given your current circumstances," he explained. "Take a look at me! A few months ago, I definitely would have turned you into a butterfly for trying to stop me from entering this dungeon," he said. The guard paused. "But I've grown into someone who doesn't need magical transformation as a solution most of the time. It's called… empathy," he whispered, wiggling his fingers for effect. The guard stared.

"Oh," he finally said, "Uh, that's nice."

"I think so too," he beamed, "But anyway, enough of that. I need to get in there to help Arthur get his throne and stuff. You see where I'm coming from, right?" he asked. The guard pursed his lips. "Come on, Ulric. Remember what I told you about angels," he said, putting a hand on his shoulder.

"They cater to the fear of not knowing," Ulric whispered. Merlin gave a stoic nod.

"Damn right they do... And you're not someone to be controlled by fear, are you?"

"Fuck the angels," Ulric said, a bit stronger this time. Merlin beamed. Nimueh and Camelot might have helped him become more human in a plethora of ways... but nobody could take his roots away from him completely. Ulric spun around, yanking the keys off of his belt to lead Merlin into the dungeons.

"Lancelot?" Merlin whispered, creeping further into the cells. Sure enough, a good chunk of his favorite humans all were stuffed in a rather lovely looking cell. At least they had plenty of rats to eat. Lance's head shot up. "Hi!" he said brightly and waved. "Remember when I told you angels suck?" he greeted, though this was mainly directed at Leon, who was starting to wake up.

"Merlin?" He mumbled and sat up straight "Merlin!" he grinned. Merlin beamed.

"Growing more comfortable with demons, are we?" he winked and let his gaze fall over the rest of the prisoners. Percival. Boy-Gwen. Gwaine - oh! Gwaine. How lovely that he was here too. Lancelot raced towards him, peering out at where the guard was behind him. "I have good news. Ulric has agreed to let you out," he said and Ulric waved. "He's decided not to be a cog in a wheel."

"A what?"

"Another brick in the wall," Ulric added on, "The system is corrupt, and angels take advantage of that with propaganda."

"Merlin, what did you do to this man?" Gwaine asked, sounding absolutely delighted. "Did you seduce him too?" he asked. Merlin shook his head. "Ah, that's too bad," he frowned. Ulric tilted his head, but didn't ask any questions as he jammed the key into the lock. "We kept waiting for Seir and Kane to help us, but those assholes dipped," Gwaine grumbled under his breath as he stretched out, joints popping. Merlin paused.

"What?" he asked. Seir and Kane? Percival gave a nod of confirmation.

"Yeah, they were here too. Morgana took them out a while ago for an exorcism," he said. Merlin froze. The rest of the group was filing out of the cell, oblivious to how white Merlin had gone. Well, everyone but Lancelot, obviously... Because it was Lancelot.

"Hey, are you okay?" he asked, putting a hand on Merlin's arm. He didn't answer. "Merlin?" he prompted.

"She... exorcised them?" he asked, voice tightening. The group paused, perhaps catching the change of tone before hesitantly nodding. A wave of emotion rolled over him, causing a hard lump to sit in his throat. "But... She... They... There were other people there, right? And nobody had holy water?" he asked. The group looked at one another. Finally, Leon answered hesitantly.

"It was out in the citadel. Nobody was there but the priest and he drank some holy water beforehand," he said. Merlin stared.

"There was something though, right? Plants? An animal maybe? Something alive that they could possess?" he asked, voice growing a little desperate. Nobody answered... Which was an answer in itself, really. A sharp pang hit Merlin's chest. Oh. He looked away, swiping quickly at his eyes as he turned away. He recognized the feeling from when Uther executed Freya. Grief.

"Is... What does that mean?" Percival finally asked.

"Um, well," Merlin began, voice much thicker than it normally was. "Usually, if demons are exorcised, they find another host. If there isn't a host available, then they go to Hell. Only, we... can't get to Hell so… well, demons can’t survive without a host or Hell," he managed. Silence followed. "That's probably why they didn't come back," he mumbled, fingers twitching.

"I'm... so sorry,” Lancelot began but Merlin pushed it all away. No. No, he wasn't... he wasn't going to do this right now. Instead he gave a weak smile and shoved past everyone.

"Where's Arthur?" he asked instead. There was a low murmur, that pretty much gave no information. "Alright then. First step. Find Arthur. I'm going to possess a guard and have him lead us to him," he said with a sharp nod. From somewhere in the afterlife, Merlin could hear Nimueh’s disapproval, but vehemently ignored it. "Someone needs to find Morgause and tell me where she is," he racked on. Boy-Gwen narrowed his eyes.

"...why?"

"So I can rip out her organs and sew them to her feet," Merlin smiled brightly. Maybe... Just maybe... It wasn't too late for him to get into the fifth circle after all.

Merlin didn't like Brom. He was a rather dull human, and he wasn't a fan of how his body was sluggish and weak. Not that Merlin had much time to pick someone else to possess… but also. Merlin didn't like Brom. If he had a list of least favorite humans, then it would consist of the following: Brom and Uther. Maybe some others too, but that was a different list for a different time.

Did Camelot really just let anyone become a guard? Because Merlin was pretty sure simply being in this host had made him dumber.

"Ay, Brom," one of the other guards greeted him with a wink, "Heard the queen wished to speak to you, uh, personally ," he grinned. Merlin made a face. Gross. He tried to tap into his Brom-like human side, but all that came out was:

"Yes."

The other guard waited. Oh. Merlin tried to think of something to say.

"It... was a major disappointment. She just wanted to give me orders about the knights in the holding cell," he said, trying to sound genuinely devastated that the queen didn't want to sleep with him. "Gosh... Darn..." he added. The other guard groaned in sympathy.

"Well, it all makes sense now that we know she's an angel, eh? Prude," he nodded wisely. Merlin inwardly poked around Brom's mind. Sometimes, you can interact with the person you're possessing. Merlin was trying to tap into his demon abilities as little as possible, but... come on. He had to let Brom know that he was a jackass, right?

"Yeah, well," Merlin shrugged, rubbing the back of his neck, "She is the queen so..."

"So what?" the guard asked curiously. Merlin nodded. Right. "Eventually she'll need a king, right?" he snorted. "I would gladly-"

There was a snap and Brom's friend crumpled to the floor. Merlin stared, making sure that Brom was also able to see the man lifeless on the ground. If you're not careful, Merlin told him brightly, that could be you, he said. From somewhere within the shallow depths of what Brom must consider a brain there was a small whimper. Nodding, he looked around before biting his lip. He probably shouldn't have used his magic to frivolously kill a man in the middle of a hallway... but he felt the act was justified.

"I - Merlin?" Leon asked and Merlin turned. He looked down at the body and then back to Leon.

"Uh, yeah," he said in Brom's voice, "It's me," he added and stepped in front of the corpse. Leon stared. "Have you found Arthur yet?" he asked. Leon took a slow breath before giving a curt nod.

"I heard some maids talk about bringing food to his chambers so it is safe to assume he's there," Leon said and crossed his arms over his chest. "Why is there a dead person behind you?"

"What dead person?"

"Wha-? Merlin, I see the body," he hissed, looking over his shoulder. "Don't act like standing in front of it is... You... You're just going to roll him over? What does that do?" he asked, voice growing more agitated by the moment.

"He's sleeping," Merlin explained. Leon made what could have been a squeal of agony or scream of frustration. Possibly both rolled into one. "He was speaking crudely of Morgana and so I thought he should take a nap... Forever," he said, adding the last part under his breath. Leon took another long breath before walking over to grab the guard's arm from the ground.

"Okay, I'll take care of the dead guy. You go get Arthur," he muttered. Merlin nodded and turned away as Leon started to heave the body up. "And Merlin?" he called, causing the demon to turn. "Look at me," he said sternly, "Please, don't kill anyone else," he said. Merlin stared. "And don't do anything weird with Arthur. Just get him away from the guards and meet up with us," he said. Merlin pursed his lips. "Promise?"

"I won't do anything weird with Arthur," he agreed and turned away.

"The killing!" Leon hissed after him, "No more killing, damnit! Merlin! Merlin. I don't even know why I try. Goddamn demon walking around murdering people left and right. What did I expect? He's a demon. Is he supposed to not kill people? No. No, that wouldn't make sense because he's a fucking demon ," Leon said as Merlin turned the corner. "I'm hiding a corpse in the middle of a bloody castle. Nobody told me this would be part of the knighthood-"

Merlin was starting to really like Leon.

The rest of the operation was less eventful. People didn't question Merlin walking around as Brom. The only real confrontation he had was as he approached Arthur's chambers and even that felt a little lax.

"The queen said no visitors," the new guard told him with a yawn, "Come on, Brom. Just because she asked for you once doesn't mean you can go around doing whatever you want," he said. Merlin internally shook his head. Morgana literally spoke to this guy once to give him orders, and Brom had apparently told literally everyone in the castle about it. What a wild man.

"Well, the queen also ordered me to give a message to the prince," he said in his haughtiest voice possible. The guard frowned.

"Do we still call him that?"

"What?"

"The prince. Is he still the prince?" the guard asked and let his lips pucker out as he considered. "If he lives would he be like... A duke now or something? How does that go? I'm not really sure how this uprising thing works."

"Just let me in," Merlin sighed and the guard shrugged, stepping to the side as he used a key to unlock the doors.

"Five minutes, okay? He's already tried to escape five times," he added under his breath. Merlin nodded and shoved his way through the door.

"Arthur?" Merlin asked, shutting the door behind him. The room was torn apart with sheets on the floor, pillows torn, glass shattered, and dozens of empty bottles of sleeping draft strewn around. Among it all, Arthur was staring out the window with a finger pressed against his lips. "What happened here?" he asked. Arthur's eyes jerked away.

"Where is Morgana?" he asked, standing up. Merlin turned to him, but before he could say a word, Arthur picked up a piece of glass and held it up. "Let me speak to her," he growled. Merlin stepped back. "She has it all wrong-"

"I know," Merlin interrupted and let his eyes flash gold, "That's why I came," he said. Arthur's eyes widened and slowly he lowered the shard down. "I guess you, uh, ran out of sleeping drafts," he frowned and glanced around. "What happened? Why did you leave the dream so suddenly? Are you okay?" he asked, not really leaving any room between the questions. Arthur swallowed. "Are you okay?" he repeated and took a step closer. Arthur backed away.

"Get out of there," he said. It took Merlin a moment to remember he was still possessing Brom. Sighing, he closed his eyes. When he reopened them, the guard was unconscious on the ground. "You came," Arthur said quietly. Merlin opened his mouth, but finding he had nothing to say, just nodded instead. Arthur looked away for a moment before nodding to himself. "She has Mordred." 

"Who?" Merlin asked and Arthur began to pace, running a hand through his hair. "Morgana?"

"When... When we got to Camelot, she arrested us. Something was wrong with her," he said, wringing his hands. "She was so angry and... scared," he muttered. Merlin nodded. "Then she asked me how I could hurt him. I didn't know what she was talking about, but..." he trailed off. Merlin furrowed his brows. Hurt... Mordred? But she had him apparently? He was so confused. Arthur must have been just as baffled because he pursed his lips and pulled at his hair. "He was hurt. Mordred, I mean," he told him. "I don't know how, but he was there when we returned. I think Kane and Seir just turned around instead of going back to Kali... but I have no idea why. Or what really happened to Mordred."

"Seir and Kane are dead," Merlin said tightly, "I... don't really know about Mordred, but listen. Are you okay?" he asked again and tried to remain indifferent. It was hard though. His family was being picked off. One by one. He had never thought to make a list of his favorite demons, but now that they were all dying... Well. Maybe he should have. Arthur bit his lip.

"I'm sorry," he said. Merlin shrugged it away. "If I had a chance to talk to Morgana..." he tacked on firmly, "I could fix it. She would listen to me."

"Arthur," Merlin finally snapped, losing his patience as he stepped over the guard's body to grab Arthur's arms. "Are. You. Okay?" he pressed. Silence. "Yes? No?" he prompted, voice growing more and more distressed with every word. "Maybe? Give me something to work with," he told him. Arthur looked down.

"I don't know."

Great.

"Morgause," Arthur said slowly, "She... I kept having Gaius bring me sleeping drafts so I could try to get you," he said. Merlin nodded. "When she found out..." he said slowly then bit his lip and blinked rapidly. "He was, I... I know that... I was so angry, but I didn't want it to go like that," he whispered. Merlin stared. "I didn't want him to die like that," he managed, and his voice shook so much that Merlin just clung on tighter. "I thought maybe he would step down once I confronted him or - or maybe if I... If I had to - it would be... you know, like a... a duel or maybe something more honorable or..." he managed and choked. The words were all said so fast, practically tripping over one another, but Merlin felt the realization settle on him all the same.

"Uther," he said quietly. Arthur looked away. "She burned him," he managed and Arthur bit the inside of his cheek. It did nothing to overshadow the tears in his eyes. Merlin slowly let him go. He wasn't sure what exactly to make of this revelation. He thought back to the scorched marks under the pyre. How... Him and Morgause might have actually agreed that whether it was justice or revenge burning him seemed like the fair way to go. Looking at Arthur now... knowing that the pyre would have been right outside the window and the screams would have been unavoidable from these chambers... He regretted that line of thinking.

"I'm sorry," he said, mimicking Arthur's earlier words. Tugging his arm, he hugged him… because he was a pro at human stuff. Arthur buried his face in his shoulder, breathing slowly for a few minutes. "And I'm sorry about... everything before," Merlin added, not letting go. He wasn't really certain how long hugs were supposed to last, but he figured a few more seconds wouldn't hurt. "I don't really know if I ever had a choice on how I felt about you," he said with a sigh, "But... I'm not sure it matters. I'm lucky either way so..." he said and let go. Arthur blinked.

"Do demons believe in luck?"

"Focus."

"Right. Yeah. Uh, I kind of forgive you," Arthur said and scowled at him, "You suck for taking this long to show up though," he added while narrowing his eyes. "Do you know how many times I've tried to escape this room?" he asked, gesturing around, "And I've killed at least three of my own men trying to leave the castle," he added bitterly. Merlin grimaced.

"Your dreams seemed so peaceful. I hadn't known anything was wrong."

"Of course they were peaceful," Arthur snapped, "I was waiting for you," he said. Merlin smiled. "Don't," he muttered.

"I really am sorry-"

"Help me get my throne back, and I'll enjoy your groveling a lot more."

"I do not grovel ," Merlin gasped, puffing out his chest. Grovel. Please. As if he would ever resort to such a thing. Arthur smiled a bit, though it was still tinged with a trauma, that Merlin regretted ever having a hand in putting there. Before he could reassess Arthur's overall health and stability, a heavy knock came from the door.

"Brom," a voice came from outside, "You've passed your five minutes."

Ah. Damnit. Merlin looked down at where Brom was groaning a bit. Merlin flicked his wrist and he slumped back into unconsciousness.

"I might have to possess him again-" Merlin began, but was silenced by a loud thunking sound. Arthur and Merlin stared at one another before both heading towards the door. Before they could check outside to see what had happened, the door flew open. Merlin glanced down to find the guard lying on the ground in a huddle of armor. In front of him with a very large pan was Gwen.

"Merlin?" she blinked. He waved. "Oh, you're here!" she gasped, letting the pan clatter to the ground so she could hug him. Merlin laughed. "Thank goodness. I wasn't really sure what I was going to do if you didn't show up," she laughed, tucking a loose hair behind her ear. "I've spent weeks trying to figure out the guards' schedules to get Arthur out without anyone realizing. How did you know it?" She asked. Merlin frowned.

"Oh, I just possessed someone and used some magic," he shrugged. Gwen looked at him. "What?"

"Nothing," she shook her head, "That isn't infuriating at all," she told him and let out a small huff. Merlin rose an eyebrow. As an expert on sarcasm… That was definitely sarcasm. Still, it was a little bewildering to see Gwen using it. "I'm just happy you're on my side," she smiled, all previous irritation melting away. "Come on, we only have five minutes before the next round of guards come around," she said, grabbing his hand.

"Where's Morgana?" Arthur asked as he was also dragged away from the room. "Have you spoken to her?" he asked. Gwen shoved them into an alcove before pressing a finger to her lips. Silence fell over them as the sound of boots clicking came by. Merlin glanced over to see a few more guards walking by. Once they were further down the hall, Gwen pulled them back out.

"I've tried," Gwen said quietly, "But Morgause has her talons in her pretty deep."

"Angels don't have talons," Merlin whispered. Gwen looked at him. "Not that it matters," he added quickly.

"Morgause doesn't think of me as much of a threat. That's the only reason I wasn't thrown in the dungeons with everyone else... And after those demons..." she trailed off. Merlin frowned. Kane and Seir? Why was she upset about them? He turned to Arthur, who seemed just as baffled. Before either could ask, Gwen threw up a hand to silence them. There were a few heated seconds of tense stillness as more guards walked by somewhere underneath them on the first floor. Gwen jerked her head and they continued. "I tried talking to her about it, but Morgause barely gives me any time alone with her," she whispered, and Merlin felt a wave of recognition towards their path. Gaius' tower.

"She killed the demons," Arthur whispered. "I'm not sure she has a right to be upset about that. How did they even get to Camelot?"

"Morgause brought them. One was Mordred." Gwen said, steering them down a new hallway and through one of the servants' passages. "And those other two demons-"

"Seir and Kane," Merlin said and Gwen nodded, "She must have grabbed them before they got to Kali... but angels and demons can't kill one another," he frowned, "How could she kill Mordred?" he asked. Gwen grimaced.

"He's not dead. Someone tried to exorcise him too… at least that’s what Gaius thinks."

Ah, crap. Merlin bit his tongue to keep from giving a vocal response as Arthur continued to stare in confusion.

"So... he's in a different host?"

"Mordred's host is technically dead," Merlin told him, voice tight, "So he can't leave it until the body is inhabitable or he wishes to return to Hell... which he can't do," he explained. "So her trying to exorcise him would be... very painful," he said. Gwen gave a nod as they slipped in the staircase. "And not something I can see Morgana doing," he added to Gwen. There was a pause as they continued up the stairs. Then she sighed and stopped walking to face him a few stairs above him.

"No," she answered "Mordred was already like that when Morgause brought them... Said it was under Arthur's orders that he was injured. Morgana was horrified."

"Seir and Kane?" Merlin asked, pushing forward so they continued making their way up the staircase.

"Are apparently the demons that Arthur made a deal with to succeed his father as his heir," Gwen said. Arthur gave a slight scoff.

"She doesn't really believe I would do that," he said. Gwen fixed him with soft eyes. "But... no. Morgana knows me-"

"Morgause is her sister-"

"And I'm her brother!" Arthur said stubbornly, stopping in their ascent up the stairs once more. Merlin turned to him. He looked at Gwen who grimaced. Both knew the answer... though neither wanted to say it. "What?" Arthur asked. Merlin sighed. It would be him to point it out then.

"Morgause isn't also Uther's child," he said quietly. Arthur's mouth parted, "I know she is too... somehow," he added under his breath, "But Uther too was once supportive of magic... up until it no longer benefited him," he shrugged. Arthur's jaw clenched. "And the many… many downfalls of angels include the fact that humans think they are the morally superior species. If Morgause said you were secretly evil," Merlin shrugged, "The human side of her might just believe it... and the angel side of her would be super smug about it."

"Merlin," Gwen said quietly, "Now might not be the time for your angel hating mindset-"

"She killed my friends and tried to exorcise Mordred while trapping my humans in cages," Merlin scowled, "Now is definitely the time to hate angels!"

"Wait, why did you separate friends and humans like that? Aren't we-"

"Can we just get up the damned stairs," Arthur muttered, pushing past both of them. Merlin moved to the side as Gwen winced in sympathy. Merlin wasn't really sure what he could do to help... but he wanted to do something . Gwen interrupted the thought by putting a hand on his shoulder.

"You should know," she began and glanced over her shoulder at where the door was now open from Arthur barging in. There were yells of greetings from inside. Merlin could see the room was already crowded from where he was standing. The back of Gwaine's shirt was visible next to Lancelot's. That at least meant the rest of his humans found their way to somewhere safe. After hearing what Gwen had to say, he was grateful Morgause hadn't nabbed one of them yet. "Mordred is in there," she said, cutting any further thoughts off.

"What?" he asked, jolting back towards her. He shouldn't actually be surprised. Where else would someone injured in this castle go? Besides, Morgana apparently was still fond of him. Gaius was his best hope of surviving. Gwen nodded. He immediately rushed up the remaining steps into the room. He could hear Gwen's footsteps following him before the door closed with a thud.

"Merlin!" Gwaine greeted happily. Merlin didn't respond.

Mordred was sprawled out on the cot, hand hung over the side as his chest rose up and down weakly. The rest of the humans were already there as suspected, murmuring among one another as Gaius used a rag to dab at Mordred's head. For a moment, Merlin paused in his grief to instead turn his attention to Gaius. The physician paused to turn and looked at him. His eyes moved up and down  Merlin's frame before offering a weak smile.

"The others said you were here," he said. Merlin gave a small nod. "I hope your time with Nimueh served you well," he said, and from behind him the door to Merlin's room opened. Merlin paused. The woman didn't seem to notice Merlin at first, her arms full of various tonics and remedies, that she set down before kneeling by Mordred's side. Merlin stepped forward.

"Kali?" he asked. The woman spun around. No. No, this wasn't Kali. He could tell by the way her eyes widened. How her breath caught. "Mother," he said instead, voice tightening. The entire room went silent. He wondered if anyone else was familiar with who Hunith was. He didn't have time to ask. "I... I'm so sorry," he began when nobody else said anything. "I didn't think to come after you after Kali... I mean, she said you agreed, but..." he tried, stumbling over his words. Hunith turned, silencing him by putting a hand on his cheek. "Hi," he whispered instead.

"Hi," she smiled and leaned forward, pressing her forehead against his arm and breathing deeply. "You're all grown up now," she laughed, pulling away. Merlin nodded. He didn't... really bare much hostility towards his human mother. He knew her as a child... and Kali had explained that she couldn't have kept a demon child. It was too dangerous for both her and him. Him being magic she could maybe handle. Him being part demon she could possibly deal with. Both? Impossible.

Still, it had never stopped him from wondering what his life could have been if he stayed with her.

"I..." he began and shook his head. "Why are you here?" he asked. Hunith nodded and straightened her dress as she rose, sitting at the edge of Mordred's bed.

"When Mordred and the others didn't come back, Kali came to me. She wanted to know if I had any idea where you or them could have gone... or if your father knew," she added, looking down at her hands. "I didn't, but... came here to see if I could find you. Gaius was here and took me to Mordred..." she trailed off and ran a hand over the demon's cheek. "I had to stay and help him," she explained. Merlin nodded.

"Thank you," he said and turned to look over Mordred. "Will... he be okay?" He asked. Hunith smiled.

"In time. Believe it or not, I'm also quite the healer," she said and Merlin gave a slow nod, suddenly remembering her relation to his uncle.

"Because you are Girl-Gaius," he said solemnly. Hunith blinked. From behind them, Elyan gave a long suffering groan as he muttered to Hunith not to question him on the matter.

"Um, well, I'm not trained as a physician, but your father taught me a thing or two about demon healing," she said, giving Merlin a bemused once over. She jerked her head and Merlin moved over next to her, "See? Gaius prepared a healing draft and I've ground up a burnt cross into the mixture," she said shaking it. Merlin nodded.

"Sacrilege in remedies," he mused, taking it from her. "Clever."

"I know," Hunith told him and took it back, "Your father told me so as well," she said smugly. Merlin bit back a grin as he got up, suddenly much more confident in Mordred's recovery. He turned back to where Gaius was watching his sister with an exasperated gaze before meeting his eyes.

"I believe I should give you a human form of affection to show that I missed your presence," Merlin told him solemnly. "But," he added, holding up a finger, "I am also ready to bring you numerous skulls for your extensive collection to show my affection in that way too," he said. Gaius considered. "They may be human or animal skulls. Your choice," he said.

"How many skulls is an acceptable amount to show you missed me?" he asked. Leon spilled a drink. "Oh, come now. I'm a physician trying to study science under this anarchist rule currently happening," he grumbled. Merlin held up three fingers. When Gaius pursed his lips, he rose one more finger. "Four would suffice. Two human and two animal. Though they must be already dead," he added sternly. Merlin shrugged. Fair enough. "Also, please don't dig up any graves," he added.

Okay, that was a little disheartening, but Merlin had other issues at the moment.

"Very well. After I get Arthur back on the throne, kill an angel, avenge my brethren, and bring back the Gates of Hell, I'll get on that," he said earnestly. Gaius nodded.

"Very good... and to show that the feeling of wistfulness was mutual, I will provide you with an opportunity to cut open one of my dead patients when the time comes."

"What the fuck is this?" Elyan asked quietly. "Leon, you said this was a nice old man," he said, pointing to Gaius. 

"His sister fell in love with a demon. I'm not sure what to tell you," Percival interjected as Leon gave an exhausted shrug. Lancelot, to his credit, looked positively touched by the display as Gwaine tried to loudly ask how he could be involved in cutting open the dead patient.

"Did any of you find where Morgana was?" Arthur asked from where he was biting at his thumb. Merlin frowned. It wasn't a habit he had ever known him to do. In fact, now that Merlin was truly able to process more than the fact he wasn't bleeding out... Arthur just looked… different . His hair was longer, sweeping past his ears. He had the beginning of a beard growing and his cheeks were much more hollowed than Merlin remembered.

"The throne room, sire," Lancelot told him with a slight bow of his head. "Morgause is nowhere to be seen," he added, looking more towards Merlin at that. Right. Probably blowing someone else up. Though, admittedly, it did make him a little nervous that she was MIA. Nodding to himself, he turned to the humans before clapping his hands together.

"Boy-Gwen," he said and held out his hand, "I need the spicy water," he told him and narrowed his eyes slightly, "I know you have it..." he added as a warning.

"Doesn't it hurt if it touches you?" he asked, pulling something from his side. Merlin was a little surprised he had been allowed to keep it at all, considering he was arrested. Then again, angels were good at pretending they had mercy. Perhaps they thought holy water was harmless.

"It does... which is why I also need you to spit in it," he said. Elyan blinked. "You can desecrate it however you want though," Merlin shrugged. He wasn't picky. "Spitting is the fastest, but hey. I could give you some time alone if you want to-"

"Why do you need him to ruin this perfectly good holy water," Leon interrupted loudly. Merlin lowered his hand, a bit irritated. Another thing about humans... They always needed things explained to them. Which, well, Merlin was similar in that aspect, but also it was annoying and damn them for doing it.

"I was inspired by my mother," he said with a small smile towards where Hunith was still helping tend to Mordred with Gaius looming over her shoulder. "Holy water hurts me, but tainted holy water is considered sacrilegious, and that hurts angels ," he explained and looked over the water with consideration. "Maybe... everyone should spit in it," he said with a nod. Elyan looked at him for a couple moments but gave a weak shrug.

"What exactly do you plan on doing with that?" Arthur asked, stepping around Percival to stand in front of him.

"Hopefully shove it down Morgause's throat," Merlin told him as he watched Gwaine eagerly spit into the water before asking Gaius where he kept some of his more unsavory ingredients. Arthur looked away. "Arthur," Merlin said and stepped towards him. Once again, he was filled with an overwhelming desire to fix something he had no idea how to fix. Or even where to look to find the broken pieces. "It's... It's going to be fine," he said. Arthur gave a short nod and went to turn away. "Wait, Arthur-" he tried again and gripped the fabric around his shoulder to spin him back around.

"It's not going to be fine!" he said in a strange burst of anger that was somehow contained in a whisper. "My father is dead . Apparently, Nimueh is too. Seir and Kane are... gone and look at Mordred!" he said, gesturing towards the cot. "Even if we win, somehow, then how exactly are we supposed to move on from that?" he asked, and Merlin realized his hands were shaking. He reached down to grab one. "I... don't even know what the first move is here. Attack? With what? Gwen said Morgana is brainwashed so attacking feels wrong anyway, but if she really is, I can't just let her continue on and-"

Merlin considered various ways to get him to stop talking... but ultimately decided kissing worked the best.

"Sorry," he said when he remembered Arthur's previous rule on discretion. Based on everyone pointedly looking away, he had probably failed. Arthur seemed too distracted by other things to really notice though. "I don't know how we're going to fix this. I just know the first step is talking to Morgana," he said and bit his lip. "And... I know you don't want to hear this, but I think I should be the one to do it. Without you," he told him.

"Excuse me?"

"She thinks you hurt Mordred. It may be better for me to start the conversation," he pointed out. Arthur bit his tongue. "Are you still mad at me?" he asked as more of an afterthought.

"No."

"...Are you sure?"

"No."

"Okay," Merlin snorted. Arthur pinched the bridge of his nose. "I don't really mind you being mad at me," he added, "You haven't had time to really... you know. React. I don't know if humans can schedule emotions, but maybe you can be properly mad at me later, now we just, uh, focus on this?" he suggested. Arthur nodded. It seemed too tense though. Merlin bit his tongue.

"Let's get you to the throne room then," Arthur said and pulled away, though he didn't let go of Merlin's hand which was something. "Lancelot. You stay with Hunith and Gaius. The rest of you... keep looking for Morgause. He ordered. There were nods as the group dispersed, Gwen patting his back as she also filed out of the room.

It didn't take long from there to get to the throne room. Arthur had promised to stay behind and well hidden while Gwen went back to find something or another Gaius needed. Taking a deep breath, Merlin pushed open the door and walked inside. 

Strangely enough… the entire hall was... different. Not in anything tangibly noticeable, well, outside of Morgana sitting on the throne. There was just a certain air about it. A light that shined into it that hadn't been there before. It was really ugly.

"Merlin?" Morgana asked, standing up immediately. Internally, he felt his previous resolve crumble. What had they done to her? It was like someone had asked a human to describe an angel, and they decided to dress Morgana in whatever the answer was. Her dress was white with gold trim, loosely flowing - almost like a robe. A golden belt was around her stomach, drawing in the fabric, and her crown... her crown wasn't even a crown. It was literally a halo. A gold circle placed on her head. Merlin was a little surprised she didn't use magic to make it float above her. "Oh, my... You're okay!" she laughed and rushed over, dress billowing behind her to grab him. "I... I can't believe..." she laughed and touched his face. "How did you escape?" she asked. Merlin stared.

"Nimueh saved me," he answered stiffly and Morgana pursed her lips. "She's dead by the way," he added. Morgana took a long breath.

"I'm so sorry-"

"Are you?" he asked, narrowing his eyes. Morgana frowned, putting a hand on her chest as if he had somehow offended her. "Because I didn't think you would care when sending your psychopaths after me," he said, voice rising slightly with every word.

"I did not plan that," Morgana said firmly, lifting a finger to point at him. "And I... I do plan on doling out proper justice," she told him, raising both hands as if placating him. Merlin snorted. "It's difficult for me! He's... Arthur has made some mistakes, but part of it is Uther's brainwashing. He could be saved- "

"Arthur?" Merlin interrupted. Holy shit. "You think... Arthur tried to kill me?"

"I thought Arthur did kill you," Morgana said and crinkled her brows. "But... you clearly survived, right?" she asked. Merlin stared. This... was not what he was expecting. At all. "Merlin?" she repeated, holding out a hand. Merlin clasped his hands together. He hated how easily all of this could have been resolved if Morgause had let Morgana talk to just... one other person without her brainwashing whispers.

"No," Merlin shook his head, "Arthur didn't try to kill me. Morgause did."

Morgana laughed. She laughed .

"No, she didn't," she told him without a second of hesitation. This... wasn't good. "Angels and demons can't kill one another, remember? Why would she even attempt such a thing?" she asked and smiled. "I'm sorry. You must be so tired-"

"I'm not!" he snapped and jerked away from her touch. "Morgana, I'm still half-human. She might be able to kill me. Not that it matters because it was her. Arthur didn't make a storm appear from the sky to strike me down," he said and gripped the side of her arms. "Think about it! Has Morgause let you speak with Arthur since you arrested him?" he asked.

"She... said he didn't want to see me. That he was angry with me for taking the throne and upset about his father-"

"Who you burned!"

"Did you not think he deserved it?" Morgana asked, voice rising sharply. Merlin bit the inside of his cheek.

"That doesn't matter. The point is that isn't you, Morgana," he told her, trying to keep calm. "Morgana, she's manipulating you. She's trying to take your fear and make you into something you're not," he said and Morgana shoved his hands off of her. Merlin watched silently as she paced back and forth. The back of her dress dragged behind her, fluttering up as she turned, like wings.

"No," she decided and Merlin's heart sank. "I am of royal blood. Of angelic descent. Of magic . Who better to free our people?" she asked, raising a hand. "Call it a fate or a destiny or my God given right, but I should be on the throne!" she told him. Merlin closed his eyes. "Morgause just wants me to see that… and she told me!" she added loudly. Merlin gave her a weak grimace.

"Told you what?"

"About Arthur's birth. Your birth. The only reason you're defending him now is because you have to. Because you are tied to him and have absolutely no choice in the matter," she shot out, pointing a finger at his chest as she stopped pacing. Merlin felt a swell of anger rise in his chest. Defiance trickled in with a melancholy that felt so human that his magic might burst.

"Just speak to Arthur," he said, raising his hands. "You already killed Seir and Kane. I don't want you to add others to the list."

"Seir and Kane?" Morgana repeated. "I know nothing of them."

"The demons you exorcised." Merlin gritted out. "The ones with Mordred."

"The ones who serve Arthur Pendragon," Morgana narrowed her eyes. "I've seen what they did to Mordred and ensured they paid the price for it," she growled. Merlin felt whatever was left of his resolve snap. His magic jerked to life as the glass around them shattered. The wind picked up with an air of warning that had Morgana pause.

" Morgause hurt Mordred," he whispered. Morgana crossed her arms over her chest. "Morgana. Please. Listen to me," he said and for a second, his skin prickled as a solution began to build in his head. A bad one. A horrible one... But a solution nonetheless. Morgana gave a slight shake of her head, though her eyes were filled with tears. "I don't want us to be on opposite sides," he managed.

"Neither do I," she managed and took a long breath, "But you are so obviously lost," she told him and glanced at the ground.

"People have died."

"People who deserved to die."

"You don't get to decide who deserves it!" he snapped and turned away. One more chance. He could reach her. He could . She accepted him so quickly... There had to be a way. "When Mordred is well enough, speak to him. He'll tell you the truth. That Morgause tried to exorcise him. Hurt him. That she pinned it on Seir and Kane to get rid of them because she hates demons and figured out a way to trick you into killing them-"

"And you don't hate angels?" Morgana said. Merlin's voice faltered. "I know what you think of my kind," she told him. Merlin swallowed. That wasn't fair. Sure, angels were the worst, but he had never held it against her. Besides, she... she was half-angel. It wasn't as if she... His hand brushed to his side where Elyan's holy water sat. He stared back at her.

"I don't like angels, but I do like you," he said, pulling the holy water out. Morgana's eyes flicked to it before giving a small sigh.

"A peace offering?" she asked, and Merlin held up the water with a little shake. "You understand that I'm not giving up my right to rule," she said sternly as she walked up to him. "Nor will I tolerate any more lies about my sister?" she asked and closed her hand around the pouch of water. Merlin didn't let go. His mind felt like it was twisting - not making sense of the world as he tried to figure out what exactly he wanted to say or do or... He bit his lip.

"Don't drink it," he finally whispered. Morgana frowned. "Okay?" he asked.

"Why?"

"You'll need it for something else. Promise me you won't drink it? It will hurt you if you do," he said, and Morgana gave a slow nod before tugging the bottle out of his hand. Merlin stepped back. "Goodbye, Morgana," he told her and turned away. Not before a gust of wind knocked him back though. Ah. There she was. He sat up, fully expecting to find Morgause standing in front of him only to see a priest. He frowned. Priests couldn't control the wind, could they? This question was immediately answered by him turning to see that Morgana had vanished.

"You just take her and go?" Merlin shouted to the emptiness behind him, "Can't even fight me yourself?!" he screamed and instantly gasped when a burning sensation hit him. He jerked away, desperately searching for his magic, but the pain left his brain momentarily frozen as the holy water crawled over his skin. In the back of his mind he could hear a chanting, but couldn't quite hear the words. An exorcism, no doubt. Only he couldn't be exorcised from his own body...

Crap. Would he end up like Mordred? Desperately, he tried to ignore the panic rising in his chest, but his magic stubbornly retreated... Probably due to the fact he was feeling pretty demon-ish with being in tremendous pain from the holy water. More was coming down as the chanting got louder. Merlin let out a low whimper as he reached out blindly for some sort of weapon.

"Get. Away from him," a voice said lowly. The pain began to recede as the chanting stopped.

Arthur. Thank the blood of Hell. He opened his eyes to see Arthur, dressed in full armor, with his sword at the priest's neck.

"Your highness," the man gasped and Arthur smiled. "I… Should you be here?" he asked. Arthur scoffed and lowered his sword, placing himself between the priest and Merlin, to start helping him up. "The queen ordered-" he began but was cut off by a crash.

From somewhere across the room there was a low hiss, and suddenly the priest was thrown back. Or rather, tackled. Merlin sat up just in time to see a spray of blood fly against the walls of the castle. Finally, a girl rose her head, blood dripping off of her face. She licked her lips, using the back of her hand to swipe some of the blood off. Merlin didn't recognize her... but then again, there weren't many people he knew that went around possessing children.

"Kali?" he asked and looked around to find more demons from the gathering jumping through the windows with low hisses. Arthur swallowed as he uncertainly rose his sword.

"Emrys," Kali said and stood up, kicking the priest's twitching body. "How lovely to see you," she said and turned glittering eyes to Arthur. "Hello, human," she said coolly. Arthur stared back. "I hear that it is your fault this child was born of human blood and forced into a life of servitude," she greeted calmly. Arthur winced.

"I… did not ask to be born?" he tried. Kali stared. "I won't make him serve me. He's completely free to let me die," he tacked on. Kali continued staring. "What... What do I say? Why is she six?" he muttered. Merlin immediately grabbed his arm as Kali growled.

"He didn't mean that last bit," Merlin said quickly. He turned back to Arthur. "Tell her thank you for coming, and that you'll help me with the gates," he muttered. Arthur nodded. Kali narrowed her eyes, fingers sharpening into claws.

"I understand your wariness given everything my father has done to you and your kind," Arthur told her, "It is my intention to right his wrongs," he said. Kali paused. After a few more seconds of silence, she rolled her eyes.

"Cross me, and I will eat your tongue out of your skull."

"I haven't heard that expression before," Arthur said, giving a nervous laugh. Merlin grimaced.

"Yeah... That wasn't an expression," he said. Kali turned to where the rest of the demons were waiting for orders.

"I'm sorry," she called and glanced to where the pyres were. The rest of the demons seemed to understand she was referencing Seir and Kane's death and bowed their heads. "We will fight... but I can tell you right now our chances our low," she said, chin jutting out. A few demons gave some growls. "But there is still one of our own to save... For Mordred!" she yelled, punching the air. The rest of the demons yelled the chant back. Arthur jumped at the sound. He only had a second to digest because the demons suddenly shot out in every direction - ripping and flying throughout the castle.

"So," Merlin said after a few beats of silence, "Would you be opposed to a family dinner?"

"Can I answer that after I get my throne back?"

"I don't know why you're hesitating, angel. They're a lovely bunch."

"Oh, you're calling me angel now?"

"It isn't as funny now when one is on your throne, huh?"

Things got... very chaotic very quickly. Merlin wasn't sure how these things usually played out, but this was... Well. It was something. Gwen and the other humans had gathered up those who believed Arthur should still be on the throne, to try and take down the rest of Morgana's forces. Unfortunately, there were also just as many who believed that Morgana should be on the throne.

"Where is Morgana?" Arthur asked as they rushed past another group fighting. His gathering had apparently allied themselves with Arthur, which he was grateful for. It definitely was a helpful boost since most of the castle was a bunch of halo lovers. "Did we check her tower?" he asked. Merlin shook his head.

"We can look, but right now we might need to focus on the dozens of people fighting... and more importantly on Morgause. If we can get rid of Morgause, then we'll definitely be able to speak to Morgana," he said and raised his hand so the people around them soared backwards. "Listen, I know you're worried about her, but one thing at a time, okay?" he said. Arthur pursed his lips. He looked at where fires were rising and blood was splattered on the walls.

"You're right," he said tightly and touched his sword. "How do we get Morgause?"

"Demons and angels can't kill one another, but since I'm more human right now, there's a chance I could do it if I absolutely need to," he said, running a hand through his hair, "But that's only if my other plan doesn't work out," he added. Arthur raised an eyebrow, but Merlin didn't give him a chance to ask. "We could probably summo-" he started only to once again be thrown back. He blinked a few times. Where... Was that magic? It felt like magic. Especially given the fact that he sat up to find himself someplace else entirely. Arthur was on the ground, blood trailing from his cheek from being slammed harshly into the wall of whatever room they were in. From behind them, there was a movement, and Merlin felt a sharp pain as he went to walk forward only for something to hold him back.

"I've always considered myself something of an artist."

Ugh.

"Speak of the angel," Merlin muttered and stood up. He looked down to see paint staining the ground beneath him. "Did you make this sigil for me?" he asked, gesturing around the room. Morgause smiled. "This won't keep me for long," he warned, "I'm not fully a demon. Your stupid trap won't-" he began, but fell silent when he looked over to see Arthur on his knees with a guard holding a knife at his throat.

"I thought that might keep you still," Morgause said dryly. "Try using magic," she smiled brightly, "Or moving outside this circle. I'll have his throat cut before you have a chance," she hissed, eyes flicking to a bright white as her hands crackled with annoyance. "I've had enough of your games, demon. I've had enough of all of your kind," she told him. "And you ," she growled, spinning to Arthur. Merlin gave a hiss, but it was a little hard considering he was pinned down by a bunch of ugly ass circles and lines painted to the ground. "I've tried to be sympathetic given you didn't ask to be born of greed and sin. I've been merciful, but I've reached the end of my patience. You may think you're different from your father, but the same evil in him resides in you," she said, voice rumbling across the room. "How could you ever think that your place is on a throne when you're allied with demons ," she sneered. Arthur jutted out his chin. "It isn't your decision," she said "Just like it wasn't Emrys' decision to be loyal to you. You have the child of a demon on your side, you could never be allowed on the throne," she said haughtily.

"Neither can you," Arthur said from his place on the ground, "I might be able to accept Morgana as Camelot's ruler... as Morgana . Not your puppet," he hissed. "You've spilled blood, Morgause," he ground out. "Innocent blood. I can't look past that."

"Innocent blood,” Morgause scoffed, tossing her hair over her shoulder, “Demons are hardly innocent. That is why they’re demons,” she sneered and locked eyes with Merlin, “And once Morgana‘s rule is secure, I’ll wipe them all out. With Hell closed they have nowhere to run to. I’ll gladly cut them piece by piece,” she said and Merlin hissed back. “Starting with you.”

"You can’t kill me,” he reminded her with narrowed eyes. Morgause shrugged.

"We’ll soon see,” she said and gave the guard a curt nod, "Make sure you make it bloody," she ordered and gave a small sigh. "I'm sorry, your highness," she told Arthur and walked over to place a finger under his chin. "Just rest in peace with the knowledge that your death will start a new age," she promised. Merlin's magic was rising, panic quelling any focus he once had.

"Morgause. Morgause, don't. Hey. Hey, don't -" Merlin began, but she was gone before he could even blink. Stupid angels and their stupid teleportation. He reached out to use his magic as the guard lifted the knife, but he could still feel the weak wall of the sigil holding him back. He gave a sharp noise of pain before the guard collapsed. He stared as Arthur gasped, falling forward onto his hands.

"You did it," he managed. Merlin stared.

"No... I didn't," he said slowly and turned to the door. It was open now. "Morgana," he whispered. Arthur jerked his head up. "You were listening," he said and gave a weak laugh. "I knew Morgause couldn't use magic," he whispered. Morgana was staring forlornly at the ground in front of her. "Hey... Are you okay?" he asked a little nervously. He was still trying to shove his way out of the stupid trap. He could feel it crumbling easily now that he was no longer panicking and flinging around, but... If Morgana did something, he wasn't sure he would be quick enough to stop her.

Wordlessly, Morgana moved forward and kicked the line holding Merlin in. There was a rush of air as Merlin felt the curse break.

“Morgause mentioned that she was heading here because she thought you might try and kill Arthur after what happened with Mordred,” She said and swallowed, “Which was strange given what she told me earlier about the deal Balinor and Ygraine made… So, I… I thought I would come here as well. To see for myself.” She explained, looking down at her hands. Merlin grimaced, a bit unsure of what to say to her there. Not that he was given much of a chance.  "Are you hurt?" she asked Arthur as she moved closer to him. Merlin turned to see him sit up before shaking his head, looking at where the knife had fallen to the ground by the guards' body. He kicked it away. "Arthur..." Morgana began and closed her eyes. Her voice broke and she looked away. From outside the room, they could hear screams of triumph and pain alongside the clanging of metal and hisses. Morgana flinched at them. "I thought you hurt them," she whispered.

"I know," Arthur said cautiously, "It was Morgause. Not you," he said firmly. Morgana shook her head.

"It was me. I ordered..." she began and gave a shaking breath. "Everything she said just made so much sense," she began, voice moving so quickly that Merlin could barely understand her. "I didn't mean for it to go like this. I didn't think-"

"It's alright," Arthur said firmly, "We can fix it. Just order your men to stop fighting," he reasoned. Morgana pursed her lips. The castle rattled.

"I... don't know if I can. Morgause blessed them before it all started," she whispered. Merlin groaned.

"Blessed them?" Arthur asked. Merlin rolled his eyes.

"Angels can do this thing where they bless people and it makes them a 'servant of heaven'," he said, using quotation marks with his fingers. "If she blessed them to fight, then they won't stop until the angel dies or their purpose is fulfilled," he explained. Arthur made a face. "I know. They're the worst," he said and then looked at Morgana. "Sorry," he added. She gave a weak shrug.

"Given recent events... I'll forgive it," she said and ran a hand through her hair. "Though there is one other way to break the blessing," she said nervously. Merlin tilted his head. "Morgause said that blessings used to be less powerful back when Hell was around because people could be persuaded by heaven or hell." She explained. Oh, come on . "So if the gates were fixed..." she began.

"You're kidding."

"Where are the gates?" Morgana asked reasonably and the castle shook again. "We can get you there."

"I don't know!" Merlin said, a little panicked as he lifted a hand to stop a stone from falling from the ceiling to hit them. "I can't see them," he said and raised his hands to freeze the debris raining from the air. "But I know that wherever the most demons are, is supposed to be where they appear."

"You can't-" Morgana began and Merlin narrowed his eyes at her. "Right. Sorry. Come on," she rectified and pulled his arm towards the exit of the room. "If you need demons, we can get you demons," she told him and grimaced as the door flung open to reveal a plethora of fighting groups outside. Merlin watched as few demons took down guards while Elyan and Lancelot fought various knights.  "You said demons were loyal creatures, right?" she asked. Merlin nodded. "Right... Then we know what to do with her," she said, jerking her head to where Kali was ripping someone's throat out. Merlin stared.

"...you're kidding, right?"

"You have a better idea?"

"You-" Merlin said and groaned before pointing at her, "You're not my favorite person right now."

"I'll get over it."

Walking out into the citadel was an experience that Merlin wasn't sure what to make of. The sky had turned a dangerous red with clouds twisting together like a hurricane forming over the land. The crowd beneath certainly looked like the sea with the fighting going on below. The good news was that their side had somehow decided to be the morally superior one of the pair. Leon would disarm their enemies before Gwaine appeared to knock them out with one punch. Elyan and Gwen had teamed up as well as Percival and Lancelot. To Merlin’s absolute pleasure, Ulric was there as well. He gave a bright wave upon seeing Merlin before going back to using his spear to jab at another guard's legs.

"DOWN WITH THE ANGELS!" He screamed. Merlin gave him a thumbs-up as Arthur did a quick doubletake. He opened his mouth as if to ask more but then shook his head instead. From Merlin’s other side, Morgana looked over the chaos, face going white at the violence below.

"Go find Mordred," He told her quietly, "Morgause will be suspicious if she sees us all together... or that Arthur is even alive," he mused.

"Mordred," Morgana repeated and frowned, "Is he doing better?"

"My mother and Gaius were treating him. He's in good hands. You should be with him to explain everything," he said. Morgana nodded, though there was a flash of daunted anticipation in her gaze as she squeezed his arm before turning back into the castle. "Alright," Merlin said to Arthur. "I'm going to try and kill Morgause. You, uh, go fight?" he suggested as he ducked when a burning arrow flew overhead. Arthur pursed his lips.

"Where is Morgause?" he asked. Merlin smiled.

"I have an idea," he said and looked over to where the pyres were still sitting innocently among the fighting crowd. "Come with me," he said and tugged Arthur towards the pyres. Arthur stumbled after him, cursing under his breath as they went.

"Be careful!" he called and pulled Merlin back from tripping over a body on the ground. "Easy," he scowled, "What is the plan here?" he asked. Merlin situated Arthur up the steps in the hay by the wooden pole. "Merlin?" he asked as the demon stepped back. Merlin pointed at him.

"HEY LOOK!" he shouted at the sky, "ARTHUR PENDRAGON IS ALIVE!"

There was a pause.

"...that was your plan?" Arthur asked and crossed his arms, "I hate you," he said and a bolt of lightning shot from the sky. Merlin pulled him away as the hay caught fire, sending the pyre up in white flames. "Ah, well. Okay," he said as he glared at the pyre. "It was still a bad plan."

"Only bad if it doesn't work," Merlin grinned and shoved him away. "Go swing your stick. If you need help, I'll rip their throats out," he smiled. Arthur scoffed.

"And if you need help, I'll come cut her wings off," he said and let his hand lightly touch Merlin's arm, "Good luck, vlǔj," he added, smirking a bit. Despite the circumstances... Merlin felt himself flush. It appeared that Arthur had moved past whatever remaining anger he felt… for now anyway. 

"Deal," he grinned and spun back towards pyre. Morgause was already there, donned in her armor with a long sword in hand, the end glittering gold and hair blowing with the flames behind her. "Hello," Merlin greeted and skipped a little closer. "I've missed you since we last spoke. Did you see Arthur is still alive? Hey. One second, I'll... Hey! Arthur! Say hi!" he called. Arthur rolled his eyes as he stopped his strike to give a half-hearted wave. Morgause's scowl deepened.

"I should have made sure you were dead," she growled and flicked out her sword so it gleamed red as it reflected the sky.

"Demons and angels can't kill one another," Merlin said, tilting his head, "Or did you forget that in your angel lessons?" he asked. Morgause's eyes burned brighter with irritation. "Come on," he goaded. "Throw me your best," he whispered.

"I'll take whatever humanity there is in your pathetic demon shell and burn it," she said, lifting her weapon to point the tip at his neck.

"I'm sorry," Merlin said and narrowed his eyes, lip curling to bare his teeth, "Do I looked scared to you?" he asked. Morgause's smile faltered. "I'm not entirely sure if I can kill you," he said, stepping towards her, eyes flicking gold, "But you are out of your goddamn mind if you think I won't try," he hissed. Morgause tilted her head, eyes glittering as she twirled her sword around her wrist.

"Morgana is backed by her blood and angels," Morgause said, gesturing around them. "They might not all be here, but they are watching. Waiting," she said. Merlin rolled his eyes. Waiting. Of course, they were waiting . Angels had no sense of loyalty. Only ambition and justice. "What do you have to offer? You don't even belong to your kind anymore. They've abandoned you," she scoffed, raising a taunting brow. Merlin smiled.

"Perhaps I don't," Merlin said with a shrug, "But I have some allies of my own," he told her. Morgause opened her mouth to respond, but a loud screech cut her off.

Merlin's smile grew as he glanced up at the sky to see a blur of red hovering above, soaring for a moment, before dipping down. There was a roar and a column of fire spiraled down between him and Morgause, letting the flames rise high between them before settling into a charred crisp of smoke. Behind him, Merlin could smell the pyres also lighting from the heat, crackling as they began to burn empty and ignored. Morgause glowered up at the sky.

"A creature of the Old Religion," she muttered and sneered. "No doubt a soul you stole."

"Oh, of course. It's a dragon," Merlin laughed, "Who wouldn't steal it's soul?" he asked before giving Kilgharrah a bright wave. The dragon had landed a few feet away, letting the ground shudder as its talon dug into the cobblestones.

"I warned you, young warlock," the dragon said as he turned his head to look at him with golden eyes, "You cannot escape your destiny."

He was so goddamn annoying. Merlin ignored him to focus on the figure sliding off of Kilgharrah instead, landing gracefully before taking one look at the chaos of burning pyres, fighting men, and screeching demons then turning to Merlin.

"Emrys," Balinor greeted. He glanced over at Morgause before flicking her off. "I'm sorry for the wait," he said casually, ducking as a spear went flying overhead. He stepped over a few bodies to make his way over to them as Morgause began steaming - quite literally. Her hair burst into flames as she raised her hand threateningly. Balinor seemed nonplussed by the reaction and merely flicked her off again. "I would have arrived with Kali," he said, wrinkling his nose at the name. Merlin nodded. He had guessed it was Balinor who went to the gathering leader after Morgause had gotten Mordred and the others. "But when I heard you had a dragon's soul," he said and waved his hands, "Who wouldn't want a dragon's soul?"

"Right?"

Kilgharrah growled.

"Ah, my bad," Merlin waved. Kilgharrah sniffed before blowing more fire. "I didn't realize you could control his soul since I made the deal," he added curiously. Balinor shrugged.

"As your father I have some stake in the deals you make... though it is very weak," he admitted and raised an arm which was freely bleeding. "He bit me," he added as an explanation. Merlin winced. Morgause threw her arm out and there was a sharp change in the air as hail began to fall. Merlin rose his own arm to freeze it in the sky. It hovered for a moment before Merlin let his hand fall and the hail all burst into water. He turned to smile smugly at the angel.

”Dragons and banished demons aside-” she began and then stopped as she quickly snapped her head to the side. Merlin wasn’t sure what she was seeing, but Balinor’s smile told him he was going to enjoy it.

”Emrys and I may not be on the best terms with demons at the moment,” he said casually, “But Kali is.” 

The sky went black.

Now. Merlin had seen plenty of demons in his lifetime. His gathering had a lot. He had visited other gatherings that consisted of up to a hundred. This though? Had to be at least a few thousand. The blackness of the sky seemed to move as they all dove down in wisps of smoke as Balinor gave a delighted laugh. Morgause screeched. Grinning, Merlin felt a ray of hope rise in his chest. At the very least he could bring back the gates with this... given that he didn't totally screw it up.

Morgause must have realized the same thing because she abandoned all pretense and launched herself at him.

Admittedly, Merlin didn’t see this coming so he let himself be thrown to the ground with Morgause’s full weight on him. There was a hot burning as their skin touched, almost to the point where it was cold. He bared his teeth as he bit her arm, ripping it so that she shrieked and went to claw at his eyes.

In response, Merlin cursed in Syeri before using his magic to throw her off of him. As she flew back, he slammed his hand into the ground. Morgause plummeted down quickly, her head snapping back against the stone.

"That’s for Kane,” he growled and when Morgause went to get up, picked up a fallen arrow and threw it, using his magic to guide the shaft right into her hand. She screamed and more lightning flew down, shattering one of the castle’s towers. “And Seir,” he added. Morgause ripped the arrow out of her hand, but he was ready. With another burst of magic, he moved the falling debris of the tower onto her with a thud.

"Emrys!” came a muffled screech from underneath the rocks. Merlin couldn’t help but snort at how pathetic it was. Angels. What power did they really have?

"This,” he said, using his magic to lift the debris, “Is for Mordred,” he hissed as he took one of the rocks to slam into her face, “And Nimueh,” he added, throwing it to the side, “And for Morgana,” he growled, letting his hands grow into claws as he swiped down. Morgause caught his wrist, but he could feel her getting weaker. She struck back so that her nails ripped open the skin on his shoulder. He didn't even wince at the pain. The anger was too overwhelming. He ripped his hand free and tried again. “And for trying to steal Arthur’s throne," he hissed, mind going blurry with rage. Morgause’s nose was bleeding, her blood sliver as it dropped onto the ground. She tried to sit up but faltered.

"Well?” she asked between shuddering gasps. “Go on. Prove a cambion can kill an angel,” she said, spitting on the ground. Merlin tilted his head. It would be kinder to kill her... if he could.

He didn’t feel like being kind. 

"Morgause!" Morgana yelled, and Merlin felt his chest clench suddenly as she dashed across the field. Her eyes met Merlin's, and she gave the smallest of nods, confirming everything Merlin had both been hoping and fearing at once. Mordred stood behind her, looking pale and weak... but alive. "Sister," she said, kneeling beside the angel. Morgause groaned and sat up weakly. "Here," she whispered and pulled out the water Merlin had handed over earlier. "Drink," she whispered, lifting it with a trembling hand.

A voice in the back of his mind whispered he should feel bad for allowing Morgana to have a part in this. The other part didn’t really care. 

"Emrys," Kali said sharply and he turned to her, "Your hands," she whispered. He looked down to see the subtle glow beginning to form. Flames. Black flames. His brows furrowed as he turned to her while she took a long breath. "You... What did you do?" she asked and Merlin gave a weak smile.

"An act of wrath," he said quietly. Kali stared. "Morgause loves angels so much... I wondered what it might be like for her to be killed by one," he whispered and winced as the flames grew around him, turning blacker and thicker as they crawled up his skin. "I need to summon the gates soon," he said. Kali raised an eyebrow.

“Didn’t you say that you needed to be more human to use magic?” she asked and gestured up and down at Merlin. “Committing an act of wrath, no matter how impressive, seems to be a blockade,” she pointed out. Merlin smiled at her before letting his magic give a crackle of energy.

“As it turns out,” he shrugged, “Wrath is a very human emotion,” he told her. Kali didn’t have time to look too impressed by that though. Merlin cut her off before she could react, “I’m just not sure if it is human enough," he added and pushed passed her. "Arthur - where is - ? Ah. There you are," he said, dragging Arthur away from where he was in the midst of chopping people down as humans tended to do. "Right. So, I need to be super human right now, and you make me the most human," he prefaced, and Arthur opened his mouth for a moment before pushing them both out of the way of a wayward arrow. "So..." Merlin prompted.

"What am I supposed to do right now?" Arthur asked, "Uh. Human stuff... I... Think of your mother," he tried and did a double take as Merlin nodded. "Why are you covered in black flames?" he asked warily. Merlin glanced down. Right. Yes. That was something that was happening.

"Um, I committed an act of wrath by getting Morgause betrayed by her own kind," he explained and wrinkled his nose. "I don't know if it's working," he said. Arthur frowned.

"You... Does this mean you're going back to Hell?" he asked. Merlin bit his tongue before giving a helpless shrug.

"If I can bring it back, then maybe," he answered and sighed. "I'm not sure it's working, Arthur. What else? Or... Hey. Kiss me real fast," he said, impatiently tugging on Arthur's arm.

"What? Now?" Arthur asked, still trying to maneuver them away from danger. "Merlin, we're in a battle and I'm covered in blood."

"Yeah, it's super romantic," Merlin said impatiently. Arthur groaned but leaned forward so that their lips met before pulling away. "That wasn't long enough!"

"If it was any longer, we would both die," Arthur assured him. Merlin sniffed. "Merlin, humans don't even know what it means to be human. You kind of have to form your opinion on that," he sighed and spun around to stab someone. "It's a huge oxymoron. There is no real definition at the end of the day," he told him. Merlin felt the panic rise. He was telling him this now? They had no time! This was the worst news possible!

From behind them, Morgause gave a scream of pain. Right. The poisoning was going well then.

"I am distressed," Merlin announced to nobody in particular. Being human felt like a scam. He looked around towards the jerking smoke of demons and screams among both sides. He turned back to Arthur. "I'm not sure I can do this," he said quietly. A horrible realization, really. Arthur paused in his own panic to look at him, eyes intently studying the black flames licking off Merlin's body. He smiled. Merlin wasn't sure why.

"Yes, you can," he said with a confidence that Merlin didn't think was reasonable for him to possess. "And if you can't, I'll... still tolerate you," he said simply. The trepidation currently wading over him suddenly took a dive at the words. The flames on him dimmed. "I'll make magic legal, and we can get hundreds of sorcerers together to bring back the gates. It doesn't have to be you, okay? Morgause is already dying. You’ve done enough," he promised. Merlin stared. "And you can go back with your family. Or not. Whatever makes you the happiest," he added. Merlin's stomach clenched. He hadn't... Of course, Arthur would.... He was an idiot. Merlin was so caught up in everything going on, he didn't think what his act of wrath would look like to everyone else... and Arthur hadn't even blinked. He just went with it as he did with everything. No matter how painful or different or scary...

Arthur... was truly one of the most accepting people this world had to offer. Maybe it was because of the deal his parents made… or something else entirely. Whatever it was though, he was truly grateful for it.

"I love you," he decided. Arthur faltered in blocking a hit from one of the guards to look back at him. "And... I'm not going to Hell," he said, flicking his wrist. The rest of the guards flew back at once so Merlin could stand in front of him. "I don't want to go even if I am demon enough to," he said. Arthur smiled a bit before nodding. "Okay," he murmured, though he wasn't sure if it was to Arthur or himself.

He looked back over to where Morgause was still lying in Morgana's arms, eyes slowly dimming as her form began to glow. Morgana seemed torn between mourning and victory as she held her still. Merlin pulled back his shoulders and walked over. The magic was practically crackling on him now. It had stopped both sides completely as they all turned to stare at him in wonder as the black flames grew around him while bursts of lightning snapped at his hands. Morgause looked up at him.

"Came to gloat?" she asked, voice hoarse. Merlin stared. He wasn't sure what he was supposed to feel here. Pity or sorrow or regret or triumph... Whatever it was... It didn't matter now. He knelt down beside her and reached out. "You better make it quick," she whispered. "I'm dying. What are your last words to me?"

...well. That particular answer came to him easily.

"Stay blessed, bitch." He smiled and clenched his hand.

At first... nothing happened. Which was super awkward. Merlin looked back towards Morgana. She shrugged. Huh. Okay. Um. So. Maybe he should have done more recon or something. The demons all looked around, murmuring among one another. Kali put a hand over her face. 

Then there was a low rumbling that silenced the group. Merlin curiously glanced around to see what the other reactions were. A few of the demons had gone completely still as the rumbling grew louder - accompanied by a shaking, that caused the ground to tremble, and a few of the humans to fall on their knees. Arthur grabbed Merlin's forearm warily. Then it stopped. Merlin gave a huff. This was a real whirlwind of disappointments and hopes that were -

Whatever else he was about to think was cut off by a scream.

Well, a scream wasn't the right word at all. Like... multiple screams. Harmonized and drawn out... almost like a song. It was honestly one of the most beautiful things Merlin had ever heard. The demons all gasped at the sound, moving closer together as the humans yelped and clapped their hands over their ears. Morgana flinched before covering her ears. Arthur's grip on Merlin got tighter.

"You did it," Mordred whispered from his place near Morgana. Merlin wasn't sure how... but something in his gut told him that he was right. Almost immediately the ground began to chip away, falling into the earth as a hole began to form. Merlin peered inside. He had heard tales of Hell before. Kali used to describe it to him in painstakingly long details while teaching him how to peel back someone's eyelids. Still, it was one thing to hear about and another to... Well. Experience it. The circle in the ground burned - metal covering it like the top of a woven basket with moving parts and glittering jewels embedded deep into the metal. Lava bubbled at the sides, gurgling as a few demons gave wails of triumph.

"Whoa," Merlin whispered. Mordred gave a slight shudder beside him. "They..." he whispered and let his hand reach over the hole. "It worked," he managed and looked over at where the demons were all standing. "It worked," he repeated louder.

"There is only one way to know for certain," Kali said and from beside her, one of the demons stepped forward. Everyone fell quiet. The demon moved forward to the edge of the circle before jutting his chin out and holding his arms open as if accepting a hug.

"My name is Thant," he shouted loudly, "Demon of the seventh circle of Hell. I have committed many acts of true violence. Allow me entry," he demanded. The metal over the hole hissed before shifting slightly. Thant opened his mouth and a black smoke came out of his body, letting the human to crumble to the ground. Lancelot ran forward to drag the host away as the black smoke circled around the gates before diving in. Kali smiled.

"He's in?" Merlin asked her lowly. She nodded.

"He is," she confirmed and the crowd roared. Immediately, everyone started crowding the edges, shouts of names and their various acts being thrown as they abandoned their hosts. There were growls from various animals, shouts from human hosts... Merlin couldn't digest it all as he tried to keep track of everyone. From his side, Mordred was edging forward. Kali looked at him.

"You were born a full demon of Hell,” she told him, “Meaning you may enter, but you won't be able to come back to this host," she said. Mordred bit his lip.

"I... haven't been outside of a host," he admitted slowly and wrung his hands. "Not that I remember anyway," he said. Kali nodded, but didn't offer anything more as she watched him. Slowly, Mordred turned to look at Merlin... and then to where Morgana was solemnly watching. When their eyes met, she smiled weakly. "What about Merlin?" he asked. Kali didn’t answer. She must have already known. "I see," he said and stepped away. "Perhaps... not today."

"No?" Kali asked, sound surprisingly amused by the decision. Mordred glanced at the figures pouring into the gates before giving a much firmer nod.

"I can come back whenever I'm ready. For now, I need to make sure the angel stays in check," he sniffed and spun back around to where Morgana had brightened. "She may seem docile now, but you never know," he added. Arthur snorted. Of course. Morgana ran a fond hand over Mordred's hair before looking at Kali.

"I know given recent events... you may think me too naive to watch out for him," she began, and her voice fell as she looked back at the pyres. Kali followed her gaze. "I won't mess it up with him," she whispered. Mordred tilted his head at her before giving a wary glance towards the other demon.

"Morgause paid for Kane and Seir. If anything happens to Mordred..." she warned and Morgana nodded. Kali's eyes flicked to Arthur. The words weren't said, but Arthur seemed to get the message loud and clear because he gave a nod too.

"Hey," he said when he looked back at Merlin. "I… What the Hell is that?" Arthur asked, voice rising in alarm. Merlin looked around. "You... There is gold coming out of you. Is gold supposed to be coming out of you?" he asked and put a hand on Merlin's gashed shoulder in alarm. Oh. Yeah.

"It's just blood-"

"Blood does not look like that," Arthur said and ripped off the bottom of his tunic to start dabbing at it. "Do demons bleed like this? What does it mean?" he asked. Merlin gave a bemused snort. "This isn't funny!"

"I've always bled like this," he said with a shrug. Arthur stared. Merlin smiled brightly. "I don't really know why... I'm sure it's fine though," he told him, prying his fingers off his shoulder. Arthur slapped his hands and continued to put pressure on the wound stubbornly. Kali watched, deeply unimpressed.

"Are you certain it must be him?" she finally asked. Arthur spluttered. "That other one seems much more... rational," she spoke and pointed across the field to where Lancelot was speaking to Leon while nodding eagerly. He glanced over, noticing Kali's hand before giving a small wave. Arthur scowled.

"I'm certain, Kali," Merlin told her fondly. She shrugged. "You'll visit?" he asked. The gates were vibrating now. "I mean, you'll at least visit Mordred, right? He's still part of your gathering even if I-"

“You aren’t one of them,” Kali said, interrupting Merlin. “You aren’t one of us either,” she added. Merlin swallowed. “You are... something else entirely.” 

He nodded. That was probably... correct. As painful as it was. Felt a little unnecessary to point it out right now though.

“But,” she continued, voice softening, “Do not believe that means you don’t belong,” she said to him and reached around her neck to pull off her necklace. “I believe this is yours,” she told him. Merlin felt his mouth dry as she dropped the chain into his hand. A lump caught in his throat, and it took everything inside of him to push it back down.

"You... Thank you," he said quietly, "But I broke… well, a lot of rules," he said weakly and jerked his head towards Arthur. Arthur rolled his eyes. Kali ignored him.

"Perhaps, but much can be overlooked given certain circumstances," she said, and a coy smile crossed her lips, "After all, we are demons. Rules aren't particularly our forté," she added and gestured across the cavern. "Even banishments can be undone," she told him, and Merlin narrowed his eyes to see... Balinor? It was definitely the host he originally occupied, only his eyes were no longer red. Hunith stood beside him, a hand placed fondly on his cheek before stepping away with a wave. Perhaps Balinor felt his gaze because the demon looked up and smiled at him before zipping into the hole to join the others. "You know," Kali continued, "When your child saves our kind, then certain leniencies can be expected," she told him. A few seconds of silence followed before she finally said the words they were all waiting to hear. “Be well, Emrys,” she said quietly. "Don’t let the humans have it too easy."

”Never.”

"And you," she added to Arthur, “Don’t try anything," she warned and stepped up to the edge of the circle. Arthur gave a weak wave.

"Wasn’t really as creative as some of the other threats I’ve heard demons say," he muttered. Kali’s head spun - completely backwards as she growled.

"I’ll put your eyes through your ears so you can see me drive a wedge in your brain," she told him. Arthur gave a weak thumbs up in return. Kali didn’t bother with more decorum as her host fell to the ground. Morgana walked over and put a hand on his shoulder.

"I owe you an apology," she began, but was cut off by Mordred cackling loudly by her side. "What?"

”We forgive you," he giggled and tilted his head back to snicker more, “Get it?" he asked, “Because usually angels like to forgive, but now we get to?" he said eagerly. Arthur stared down at Mordred thoughtfully before nodding to himself.

"Yeah," he finally said, “I like him.”

"That’s great to hear," Leon said as he marched up, coated in a layer of blood, “This thing isn’t going to remain in the citadel forever, is it?" he asked, gesturing to the gates. Elyan gave a short nod from where he was holding an injured palm. Ulric also clambered along, hopping over debris and unconscious hosts before glaring fiercely at Morgana.

“Hello, angel.” He greeted with a sniff. Morgana looked up at him for a moment before turning to Merlin.

“Oh, she’s cool now, Ulric.” He said and the guard held out his arms, “Turns out she was a victim of angelic propaganda too.” He explained. Ulric’s expression melted into one of understanding as he turned to give Morgana an apologetic smile. “As for the giant hole to Hell… I think it looks nice," Merlin continued with a snort of laughter. Elyan stared at him. Tough crowd. "No, once the demons leave, it will go away," he sighed, smiling a bit when Gwaine clapped him on the shoulder. "Um," he said as the rest of the humans began to gather around. Silence followed. "What now?" he asked. The group all looked at one another.

"Well," Lancelot said from Percival's side, "I suppose... we must go to our normal lives-"

"No," Arthur cut him off, "I will be knighting you," he said sternly and Lancelot's eyes widened "If, of course, you accept," he added. The rest all looked at one another before giving brisk nods and overwhelmed acceptances. Lancelot immediately knelt to claim fealty right then and there. Gwaine rolled his eyes, but didn't seem as opposed to the idea as Merlin thought he might have once been. "Also," Arthur added lightly as he leaned into Merlin's side, "I'm… pretty tired," he shrugged. Merlin blinked.

"Oh, I'm sorry," he frowned and moved to the side. "I should let you sleep."

"I - wait. No. Merlin. I'm tired."

"Yes, I heard you."

"No, I'm tired," Arthur emphasized. Merlin stared. "Tired," he repeated. Merlin wrinkled his nose. He didn't understand. "As in, I want to sleep. Like, you know, dreaming," he told him flatly. Oh. Oh .

"I'm exhausted," Merlin agreed, interlocking their pinkies together. "I better sleep too," he said eagerly. Gwaine gave him a thumbs up.

"Yeah," Elyan sighed from where Gwen was now wrapping his hand in a cloth, "Well, the rest of us are going to clean up after the battle because we aren't disgusting," he muttered. Gwen hit his shoulder. "Do you hear them?" he asked her, voice going high. " Do you?" he repeated and glowered at the pair. "Shame," he whispered.

"We're not under an angel regime," Merlin objected, "Leave us alone."

"No."

Arthur snorted, but didn't humor the argument as he grabbed Merlin's hand. Not that they were actually going to sleep yet. Merlin knew him too well for that. The castle would need to be meticulously cleaned, and the aftermath of the battle cleared before he did anything fun. Also, well, there was technically still a coronation to be held. Morgana would need to recover from her sister dying and the whole 'trying to take over Camelot' ordeal. They were far from done with anything. Though, despite it all, there was at least one good thing to come out of all this... He had met Arthur Pendragon. And Balinor was right...

He would be incredibly easy to, well, you know… tolerate.