Chapter 3: Chapter 2
Disclaimer: Due to some errors from the last chapter this one will try to fix some of them while the story progress, also, keeps in mind that this is a crossover story between two universes with different world-building when it comes to magic so changes are inevitable.
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Third Person POV
Harrenhal – 281 AC
It was dinner time, while the dishes are being served Merlin takes a look at all the new faces, the first is a young boy with silver hair and amethyst eyes like all the Targaryens, Rhaegar told him that was his younger brother Viserys Targaryen, the mage wonders why the kid was staring daggers at him, but if the rumors he heard from the gossips the maids in the castle always do are true, then the young prince is on his way into becoming his father, whom Merlin was glad for still not having joined them for dinner.
'I have nothing to do with it.'. The mage chuckles inside his mind.
Merlin wonders for a long moment how come the Targaryens succeeded in not falling to deformity after over three hundred years of inbreeding, the best explanation he could manage to find is that the magic in their blood is preventing it from happening, despite their lack of knowledge in how to use what magic they have.
Merlin looked at the Kingsguard, Jaime Lannister was now in his own golden armor, had he let his golden hair grow any longer Merlin would've thought he was wearing a helmet, the wizard gives a small chuckle inside his mind at his own joke. Merlin then takes a look at the other members of the kingsguard, Lewyn Martell stood out the most of all the others Merlin still hasn't met, he is the uncle of Rhaegar's wife Ellia, and prince Oberyn Martell, the other two were Jonothor Darry and Harlan Grandison. They all look like good men and decent swordsmen by Westeros' standards. The wizard still couldn't believe how easily they all fall for that obvious lie that he wasn't a swordsman, of course, his magic and his way of always referring to himself as a mage helped, but it was in a certain way frustrating for them to fall so easily.
'Heck I was Artoria's swordsmanship mentor.'. He tells himself in his mind and then his eyes widen when he realizes he called Arthur; Artoria.
Merlin gives a sigh while massaging his temples due to another migraine, his memories were still a mess after making his wish for the holy grail, he's having memories that felt completely foreign sometimes, one of them was about a golden dragon, and another memory was of Galahad, whom Merlin was seeing as the illegitimate son of Lancelot for some reason, although that couldn't be farther from the truth as he remembers Lancelot marrying Elaine of Corbenic, after all, he was the one who was in charge of arranging the flowers for their wedding.
"Something wrong sweetie?". Rhaella says, putting her hands on Merlin's shoulder and showing worry in her eyes.
"I'm okay Rhaella.". Merlin says, his headache now gone, allowing him to smile again and look the queen in the eyes. "Thank you.".
"Who is this peasant?". All heads turn to the voice and see that it was Viserys who had spoken, arms crossing and cheeks pouting. "Why is he dining with dragons? He is not a dragon!".
'Ah, the arrogant royal brat, I remember when Arthur and Morgana were like this, now that I think about it, Morgana still was the last time I saw her.'. Merlin closes his eyes and chuckles at the memories but forgets to do it inside his head and when he opens them again, he sees all eyes on him. "Sorry, just remembering moments I guard with fondness in my heart.".
"They must be very precious memories, right?". Rhaegar asks with honest curiosity in his eyes.
"Aye.". Merlin says. The word was still strange for him, he can't stop asking himself why they don't say words such as; yes, or yeah. 'Okay I might've invented the last one back in Camelot, but it sounds cooler than; yes, aye, and affirmative. It's definitely better than; roger, I can't believe that narcissist managed to convince everyone that his name also means yes and had everyone saying it to appease his ego.'.
"Would you mind sharing with us?". Elia asks. She was a pretty woman, slender, with black eyes, and olive skin, at first Merlin wondered why Rhaegar married her, then he remembered the bard prince didn't have a sister and Merlin was glad for it, and looking at Viserys makes the mage hopes Rhaella never gives birth to a girl.
"Not at all.". Merlin says while the food is finally served, he wonders how many people are starving on the streets while the royal family has so many dishes with so much extravagance on them, while also wondering how could they eat all of this and not get fat. 'I should stop with the quips.'. He tells himself before turning his attention back to the dinner table. "I just remembered how Arthur was always clumsy, there was this time once when he was a child where I used my magic to bind a sword into a stone, and then I told him; Only a true king can take it out of there. He spent the whole day trying to pull the sword off the rock and cried after giving up.".
There was a laugh at the table, and off the table, the kingsguard joined them, all of them imagining the picture of a child out of breath and with a red face for using too much strength, trying to pull a sword out of a rock, Rhaella's laugh was obviously the most amused, clearly, she was imagining Rhaegar and Viserys doing it, speaking of which, the first son was blushing while laughing probably because he would've fallen for Merlin's trick, the second son not so much, the wizard felt that he was laughing because he found Arthur pathetic, not because the prank was funny.
"You said his last name was Pendragon.". Jaime Lannister says, proving that he was still green for all his brothers in the Kingsguard were looking at him, Merlin found it strange, it's not like speaking without permission was the same as him breaking his oath to the Kingsguard or killing his king. "Why the name? did it have something to do with dragons?".
Merlin looks around and sees curiosity in everyone's eyes, everyone who was on their feet approaches their faces forward slightly trying to hear it better, those at the table did the same, but not so subtly as the Kingsguard did. Merlin was tempted to say 'yes', but it would only lead to trouble so he refrains from doing it, despite wanting so much due to the doors it will open for new quips and jokes.
"It's a long story.". Merlin says but smiles trying to stop them from feeling disappointed. "The short version is that Arthur's father, Uther Pendragon, came to Camelot from an unknown land and conquered it, after which he was crowned King.".
Merlin knew when things should better be left unsaid, even with his magic he doubted anyone would believe how he once foretold how a white dragon and a red dragon would battle each other, and then afterward England, sometimes called Britain, would be united by a great king who would defeat the Gauls and Romans. It still hurts Merlin whenever he thinks about it, for in truth, the red dragon and the white dragon, despite being in conflict, were the same Dragon, he was named Albion. Uther's brother, Vortigem, whom Merlin left out of his short story for obvious reasons, was the incarnation of the white dragon, born from within Britain to destroy human civilization and keep the island in the Age of Gods, to accomplish that he drank the blood of the white dragon, lost his humanity, and become the very will and avatar of Britain. He would've succeeded had King Uther's plan failed, to defeat his brother Vortigern, Igraine, Uther's wife, was magically impregnated with the concept of the red dragon that protects Britain and gave birth to Arthur, who had the very essence of the red dragon inside his body. As a result, Vortigern the incarnation of the white dragon, and Arthur the incarnation of the red dragon would battle over the fate of Britain, fulfilling Merlin's prophecy.
'I'm still not proud of that.'. Merlin tells himself as another migraine attacks his head after remembering what had come to pass, once more having two visions of the same event, one with Arthur, and the other with the same blond woman that keeps appearing in his thoughts and dreams, he doesn't know why, but he knows the Holy Grail is responsible for having this flashes, and different memories in his mind. 'Who is she? Why does she feel so familiar in one moment and a complete stranger in another? And why in the moments where she feels familiar Arthur is the one that feels like a complete stranger?'. Merlin's pondering is put to a stop by the same before anyone noticed that his mind was wavering through an ocean of thoughts devouring his attention from the dinner he is having.
"Are you sure you're not making this up?". Rhaegar asks with a cocky smile, making Merlin thanks him on his mind, for his words had made those thoughts about that female version of Arthur, which he decides to keep the name he came up with; Artoria, go away even if it's just for a short time. "That sounds like the tale of Aegon the Conqueror, minus the dragons.".
'Oh no Rhaegar, there are dragons, I just left them out of the story.'. Merlin says in his mind and just gives a warm smile to the bard prince, blessed is the ignorant and the innocent.
Merlin just shrugs his shoulders and takes a bite of his food, asking himself before speaking why did it take so long for them to be served. "I guess that all places are the same, pick a sword, kill everyone that will oppose you in battle and politics, then forces the weak to submit to your mighty.".
There was a silence after hearing Merlin's words for there was truth in them, Aegon and Uther basically traveled to a new land, killed the opposition, and took power, they didn't have any right to it, but they had the power to do so, and with that power, they did what they wanted, and what they wanted was a throne, and with it, a land for them to rule and to call it theirs. The Targaryens were still alive and in power, unlike the Pendragons who were now extinct, like the Blackfyres, it makes them remember that Aegon and his sisters had dragons that make them the strongest House in the seven Kingdoms, and now they had nothing that ensures their power except the goodwill of their people, but that was diminishing every day thanks to Aerys. It isn't a surprise that a part inside most of them was wishing for Merlin to succeed in bringing the dragons back.
"When will you bring our dragons back?". Viserys asks, Merlin would enjoy pranking this boy if he didn't stop acting all superior due to his position as a prince. "I want one soon so I can fly throughout our kingdom and show them the power of House Targaryen.".
"Fine. I'll do it right now.". Merlin says with a cocky smile, making everyone relieved once they saw the mage's 'trademark', as Merlin called it, a trait the mage likes to carry with him. "Brings me your dragon egg and I'll hatch it right here right now, and you will have a dragon only yours to show to everyone.".
How Merlin could sound so serious and so sarcastic at the same time, no one could figure it out, Viserys, the child he is, falls so easily to the mage's words that he immediately forgets he doesn't have a dragon egg with him, and takes too long to realize it and lets the big smile on his face vanish.
"I don't have a dragon egg.". Viserys blushes, crossing his arms and poutings while turning his face to the side, too ashamed to look Merlin in the eyes.
"Oh, what a pity.". Merlin says, this time not sparing the mockery in the tone of his voice, then looking at Rhaella with a smirk in an attempt to make the queen and everyone else that is looking at the scene let it go and laugh instead of just holding themselves with snorts they are barely trying to disguise and hold. "Your grace, I think Viserys should have his dessert early, he looks really sad right now.
Like a fireblast spell, the laughs burst out of everyone's mouth, charisma and good humor was a third nature to Merlin, magic was first and swordsmanship was second, years with Arthur and laughing with him, and at his cost is what made it so easy for him to joke about everyone and not make them feel offended unless Merlin wants them to. The proof was Viserys himself, if any other person had said what Merlin had said, Viserys would've thrown a tantrum and probably his food too, either in the air or the jokester's face, with Merlin though, the kid was too occupied thinking that he is getting his dessert earlier than everyone to noticed he has just been made fun of.
'Poor kid, good thing I'll be far away from him once he realizes he is not getting his dessert earlier'. Merlin then looks at Ellia, he heard she and Rhaegar had a daughter but hadn't seen her yet, he thought she might be sleeping, but he wanted to hear it from the mother. "I heard you have a child, where are they?".
"Oh, Rhaenys, she is sleeping.". Elia says, taking a drink of wine, instead of water, is not something Merlin would recommend to a mother who is still breastfeeding. "She'll love to see you, such a sweet baby.".
"Takes after her mother.". Rhaegar says, putting his hand on Elia's, Merlin notices the shine in her eyes and the small nod her uncle gives them. "It's curious though, Rhaenys does not have any of the Valyrian features, she is a Martell through and through, showing to the world the proud blood of the Rhoynar she has.".
They didn't know why, but Merlin did. The reason is that after years of incest, the blood running through the veins of Rhaegar and his family has become weak, of course, he wouldn't dare tell them that, not in Aerys' presence at least, due to their blood getting weaker with each new generation, marrying outside their family was bound to make their children look more like the non-Valyrian parent, Merlin was even betting that the only reason the Targaryens weren't sterile yet was because of the magic in their blood just like it was making them not becoming deformed, he's also betting that the only reason Rhaenys wasn't a stillbirth or dead a few weeks after being born was because of the magic the Rhoynar has in their blood, Merlin heard that the Rhoynar possessed water magic, with Nymeria Martell being the greatest of them all, that put the Martells at the same level as the Starks and Targaryens in Merlin's eyes if he ever decides to marry someone. Merlin ends up clicking his tongue while thinking about the magic blood of the three families, he sighs in relief when he notices no one paid attention to him, all eyes still focused on Rhaegar and Elia's talk about their daughter.
"Something wrong sweetie?". Rhaella says, making Merlin sweat drop after realizing he did get noticed by Rhaella, again, and now all eyes were back on him. "Merlin, is there something wrong?".
"No no, just thinking about what Rhaegar said.". Merlin lies since he has an excuse ready so no one would notice when he is done speaking. "I think I know why Rhaenys looks more Martell than Targaryen.".
"The blood of the dragon is the strongest, she should look Valyrian not Rhoynar.". Viserys says, wanting attention like all children, and because he is petty, Merlin is betting both are right.
"Yeah yeah. Hush now, adults are speaking. I'm looking at you Arthur don't you dare.". Merlin says, glaring at the knight who was ready to give Merlin one of his own quips. "Now back at Rhaenys. The reason she looks more like a Martell than Targaryen is because of the magic in the Rhoynar blood. You see, when two families with magic blood have a child, the magic they have a better aptitude with will manifest itself in their physical traits, Rhaenys looking more Martell than Targaryen shows that she had better aptitude with Rhoynar's water magic than Valyrian's fire magic.".
Everyone looks shocked at the explanation, deep in thought about what it could mean and what could be done if what the mage said is true, they all believed him though, despite showing no evidence to back his claims, the benefits of being a magic expert dealing with people with no knowledge in magic is that people will believe Merlin most of the time. Merlin lets out the weakness of the Targaryen blood, while it is true that magic manifests in some people by their physical traits, he doubts it is the same with Rhaenys though, there is a reason why many people are not able to become mages and wizards or every other magical pronoun despite having magical blood flowing through them.
"Does that mean Rhaenys will become a wizard like you?". Elia says and Merlin could see the passion burning inside of her, in a place where magic is almost dead, and learning that your child can become a magic person themselves would be a dream to most parents.
"I'm afraid it's not that simple.". Merlin says, making all eyes on him confused since he just confirmed that Rhaenys possesses magic. "Let me explain, there is magic inside all of us, but that doesn't mean some types of magic are exclusive to us, the Rhoynar for example have water magic, but that doesn't mean only they can use water magic, it is just that due to years of using and mastering this type of magic it basically became a second nature to them, but others can also learn about it while the Rhoynar will all have a talent for it.".
"That doesn't explain why Rhaenys might not be able to use magic.". Rhaegar says and Merlin and everyone else could see the desire for answers in his eyes, the same with Elia and her uncle.
"This comes back to what I said about magic being inside all of us. Answer me this, why all of you can't use magic even though you all have it?". Merlin asks, looking at everyone in the room, in his eyes, they are all equal in the magical field, unlike with politics, in this field, your house's history and influence don't matter that's why Merlin treats them all the same. "You too, you glorified guards, I want to hear your thoughts.".
"Because we don't know how?". Arthur says.
"It isn't strong enough?". Barristan says.
"Our instincts are lacking?". Jaime says.
"It has to be given to us?". Rhaegar says, like the three before him he was speaking out the first thing that came to his mind, not a great plan, magic never has any solid answer to any of the questions that involve it, and that is the main reason why Merlin doesn't deny any of them and just smiles with satisfaction at them for having answered his question.
Merlin nods at them, he likes to think that magic is the chaos of science's order, it keeps things simple and avoids headaches due to the vast immensity of the abyss that magic really is. "You are all correct, now Rhaegar, Arthur, remember when I told you that the terms mage, wizard, sorcerer, and warlock were all correct while also saying magician is an incorrect term? There is a reason for that, the term magician while correct had become inappropriate due to the misuse of the word by con artists and frauds who called themselves users of the magic arts, I grew to dislike the term and refuse to use it because of them, but for the sake of understanding I'll just say this; all people who can use magic, true magic, are magicians yet not all magicians can use true magic, now back to the four terms I used, they are given to magicians due to a specific reason despite their common use by every user of magic.".
The prince and kingsguard nod their heads, making the royal family stare open-mouthed at the future king and the kingsguard stare open-mouthed at their golden brother. Merlin frowns for not being able to quip at such an opportunity, but magic lessons always come first, that's his motto.
'Starting from now on.'.
"These terms are more used depending on the way a person manifested their magic, and that my friends, is the reason why you all can't use magic despite having it inside of you, it never manifested.". Merlin gets off the table, unlike everyone else he did the smart thing and kept eating no matter what instead of stopping to make small talk so he could finish his food and leave before Aerys comes, he goes where his eyes are locked on and grabs his magical staff which Gerold Hightower was holding for him, and starts walking around the table, he then points his staff a little above the table and four black human silhouettes appears out of thin air, no matter how much time passes, people still gasp and awe at the displays of magic he performs.
"First let's talk about mages. This is my 'class' by the way.". Merlin points his staff to the first silhouette, the black shape turns red, and starts reading a book, everyone watched in amazement letting Merlin think for a moment what would be the best and easiest way to explain to them what all these silhouettes will represent. "Mages are those who managed to manifest their magic through studies. As brave Ser Arthur said, you don't know how to manifest your magic, which means you need to learn. Magic manifestation throughout studies is the hardest and longest one, for you need not only to learn but also to fully understand what magic means and feel it inside of you, and that may take decades to accomplish.".
"You said you are six-and-ten.". Rhaella says, making all eyes fix on her except Merlin who continues to walk around the table letting his footsteps be the only sound being made before Rhaella proceeds. "How did you manage to make your magic manifest throughout studies if you said it takes decades to learn?".
Merlin smiles at the queen, a sweet smile, not a cocky or one of his usual grins whenever someone falls for his tricks, and stops in his tracks, making all present hold their breaths despite not being his intention.
"I had a good teacher.". Merlin says, remembering a gold dragon, wiser than any man could ever hope to be, and kind enough to share his knowledge, unlike other dragons, who treasure all their possessions and wisdom, letting their greed dictate their lives and being nothing more than slaves of it. "Because of him I've learned much in less time than others, another reason is that most mages try to make their magic manifest all by themselves, greed is a great motivator, and when it comes to magic, many mindsets are that the fewer people who possess it, the better it is for their magic becomes more valuable.".
They all ponder about what Merlin says and understand the logic behind it, if you could become the only magic being in the world would you share it or keep it to yourself? The answer was obvious, as Merlin had said, greed is a great motivator, and most of them fear that their own greed might've made them do the same thing as the mages Merlin told them about, the only one who has no doubts about himself was Barristan, he lost a brother in the last Blackfyre Rebellion, that lost taught him humbleness, this humbleness made him give up of ever learning magic if it can lead him to greed as Merlin said it could.
Taking their silence as a sign to continue Merlin points his staff to the second silhouette, it turns green and the shape of a man it has becomes that of a baby, many were confused by what it meant and start talking to themselves inside their minds trying to figure out what could it mean, clearing his throat Merlin makes all eyes turn back at him, making the mage has a self-satisfying smile on his lips.
"The second way to manifest your magic is the moment when you are born, making it the most unpredictable method. When this type of manifestation occurs on people, we call them sorcerers.". Merlin says, everyone says a long; ah, showing that they now understood why the silhouette turned into a baby. "Barristan was right, you are not strong enough, because when you are, your magic manifests itself the moment you come out of the womb.".
"Is there a way to know if the baby will be strong enough when it is born?". Viserys asks, Merlin raises an eyebrow, asking himself if it was curiosity or if the brat actually believed that he might have pulled it off when he was born, given the way Aerys might be raising him it doesn't surprise the mage that Viserys might be self-absorbed enough to believe he did manifest his magic at birth.
"No.". Merlin says seriously and with no room for jokes this time, half because it's partially true, half because Viserys might try to use the knowledge in the future for some nefarious purpose. "The best you can do is suppose the child might. Given many families' magic backstories, it is common for many people to marry into other families with magic in their blood so the chances of a magic manifestation at birth are higher. For example, Rhaenys has the magic of the Rhoynar and the Valyrians inside her blood, if she marries the son of Brandon Stark, their child will have the magic of the Rhoynar, the Valyrians, and the First man inside of them, making the chances of a magical manifestation at birth increase, but remember, just because chances are higher doesn't mean it will happen.".
The last part was said because Merlin saw how Rhaegar was brooding, he bets the prince is already thinking that Rhaenys, a baby, his daughter, should marry the Starks, just so the Targaryens could have a sorcerer in their family, it was either that or he was thinking about marrying Brandon's future daughter to his future son, proving that Merlin was right when he said that magic does increases most people greedy, Rhaegar could be already falling for it and not realizing. Merlin learned from his talk with Lyanna that the blood of the first men gives them abilities called warg and skinchange, when he asked Arthur about it, the knight told him that the Daynes like the Northmen had a weirwood tree on their castle and they also possessed the blood of the first men, he told Merlin that wargs could enter the minds of animals and see through their eyes, while skingchangers could not only see but also control the animals whose mind they are inside of, making the mage even more interested in study the magics of this land.
Attempting to make Rhaegar drop the subject Merlin points his staff to the third silhouette, it becomes purple and starts running once a purple silhouette of a dog starts chasing it making many laugh at the image, Merlin smiles seeing that he was able to make the prince forget about whatever he was thinking, not wanting to see the prince fall into a path Merlin would've too had it not been for the dragon who taught him the ways of magic.
"Now let the golden lion bask in the glory for he was also right.". Merlin says back into his mockery, no matter how moody he was, magic always manages to make smiles take over his body. "As Jaime said, your instincts are lacking. Another way to make your magic manifest is through instinct, we called those who managed to accomplish this method; Wizards. Tell me, Jaime, what was the most dangerous thing that you had ever done?".
The lion of Casterly Rock blushes, either he was not used to getting this type of attention, or because Merlin's quips were intended to make him blush, the mage who stopped walking around the table, now that he was in front of Jaime Merlin gives the newest kingsguard a soft tap in the foot with the base of his staff making him stops his mumblings and finally speak.
"I once jumped from one of the mining tunnels of Casterly Rock into the sunset sea despite my father's explicit orders not to do so.". Jaime said the fast he could, blushing and sweating, it did not help that his brothers of the kingsguard and the royal family were all laughing, making him lower his head in shame.
"Don't worry, they're not laughing at you, sometimes is just good to have a good laugh.". Merlin whispers in Jaime's ear making the knight raise his head and look at everyone in the eyes, seeing that there is no malice under no one's skin, maybe Viserys, Merlin thinks while looking at Rhaegar's youngest brother. "Wizards, as I said, manifest their magic through instinct, it may be by doing something brave, something smart, or even something stupid; like having Rhaegar as your best friend.".
Arthur laughs hard at the quip and Jaime joins him, relieved for not being the only target of Merlin's pranks, Rhaegar just covers his face in embarrassment as his wife grabs his shoulder to show support while his mother grabs the other.
"Due to being the easiest method to manifest your magic, Wizards are the most common in the magical population, but don't get excited, while instinct is the easiest way, it is also the most dangerous.". Merlin says looking around like an eagle to see if any of them would do something dumb enough to try and use this method, luckily there were none. "To manifest your magic through instinct you need to do something that will take your instincts to the peak and then surpass it, some try it by doing dangerous things, such as jumping off a cliff into the water, that being said, I'm surprised you aren't one Jaime, was the height you jumped not fatal or it was but still not enough?". Merlin's quip this time wasn't meant to be funny, he casts Jaime a serious look and everyone else looks at the Lannister wanting to know why he still isn't a wizard if Merlin was right.
"It wasn't dangerous enough I'm afraid.". Jaime says, stretching his muscles as a way to vent off the stress this is giving him, although he doesn't cower from it, being a kingsguard means danger, and stress will follow him all day and he needs to be prepared. "While it had its risks, as long as you did it the right way you would always be safe.
"Do it naked next time, it may be what's missing.". This quip was intended to take a few chuckles out of the room, and Jaime gives in, giving a nod at Merlin who proceeds with his explanation. "As I said, it is the riskiest of them, and it will only work in situations where you will either win or lose everything, be it your life, your desires, or your love, so I don't recommend you try it.
Everyone nods as Merlin starts walking around the table again, this time slower, taking a look at the last silhouette and thinking of the best way to explain the rarest and trickiest way to make magic manifest itself. Giving a loud sigh due to the last one probably being the most tiresome to explain given Merlin's lack of knowledge about this land, he believes it's the method that will cause him the biggest headache. Pointing his staff at the last silhouette it becomes blue and gets on its knees under a light above its head, hands together and doing what appeared to be a prayer.
"The final and rarest way to make magic manifest itself is by making a magical contract. The contract can be made with many beings, gods, demons, and from what I hear about Westeros, maybe the children of the forest.". Merlin takes a look at all faces to see how they reacted, magical contracts were always more headache than they were worthy, mainly because demons were the main perpetrators, rarely it was done by a god or magical being since unlike demons the magical contract doesn't bind the other party for eternity as demons do. "There are many terms for this type, but we call them warlocks, witches if they are female, most of the times.".
"This contract.". Rhaegar gulps loudly, still shocked and looking at the silhouette, afraid of what could it mean, and that there may be someone out there who made the contract, Merlin sees this thought is flowing over the head of the others as well, luckily, he has a response ready. "Is there a chance someone in Westeros has already made it?".
"I highly doubt it. As I said, it is the rarest method.". Merlin says, looking at the face of all of them in search of any uncertainty still planted in their minds. "The thing about magical contracts is that as the name implies, it's a contract, which means that you are forced to fulfill your part, and well, most people don't live long enough after the contract is over.".
Silence engulfs the air. Rhaella is the first to recompose herself and looks at Merlin after taking a last look at the final silhouette. "Why is that?".
"Well, if the contract is made with a god, the person is bound to lose their magic after is finished since it was in a way, a bless, given so the person could fulfill their purpose and nothing more.". Merlin watches as some heads nod in response and continues. "Magical creatures have even less chance of making a magical contract because as I keep saying, magic makes people greedy, so they want to always keep it to themselves and only do otherwise if they are rewarded, convinced, or forced, and, If the contract is made with a demon, which most are, the payment is always the person's soul, and the body doesn't last long without it. That's why I know no one has made a magical contract in Westeros, another reason is that magical contracts leave a magical trail, trails I can easily find, and most importantly, do you think they would just stay still and not try to conquer the country if they really possess magic?".
Silence once more pair in the air, but this time the relief comes faster, Merlin was right and they believed in him, from the display he showed all of them, there would be already one or many magical incidents if magical contracts had been made in Westeros, by sharing this knowledge with them their opinion of Merlin rose to new highs without him noticing, Merlin on the other hand slightly bit his lower lips, despite all of them now being relieved after the mage had told them there was no reason to worry he feels somewhat guilty after telling them about magic and its users.
The main reason for Merlin being uncomfortable is that just like with Uther, he willingly omitted crucial details about magic. It wasn't out of malice, but out of fear, magic is a reality beyond complete reach and comprehension, one could spend all eternity studying it and still be only scratching its surface. Few, like Merlin, truly knew or have the slightest idea what magic truly is, magic is the highest class of mystery that surpasses magecraft, and all current sciences of any age. It represents the actualization of events that are impossible to reproduce in a certain era, whether by humans or the planet, even if given an infinite amount of time and resources.
Another reason is that magic is always changing, like humans, magic was alive, it has a conscience, and a will, and just because Merlin could perform it didn't mean that he couldn't one day wake up and loses all of it, something the mage truly fears it might happen in the future, close or distant.
Merlin gives a loud sigh. All the talk and explanation really took a lot more than he thought. He waves his staff above the four silhouettes and they all disappear, with all eyes on him Merlin bows his head to the royal family and announces his leave.
"Thank you for the food, and your time.". Merlin says with sincerity. "I'll take my leave now. I hope the rest of your night is as pleasant as mine was.".
As everyone gives Merlin their farewells the mage walks to the door only for it to open and reveal Aerys, looking madder than usual, but the look he gives Merlin shows it's because he is wroth with something, the mage gets out of his way and lets him pass, Merlin stops before leaving, he wanted to hear what Aerys had to say.
"Father.". Rhaegar says and gets on his feet, followed by everyone else, and bows to his father and king. "I'm sorry we started before you.".
"Spare me your false sorrow.". Aerys says grunting while sitting on his chair with his back to Merlin. "I had some problems with my stomach, granmaester Pycelle tried everything but nothing worked, but I'm better now.".
All eyes that were on Aerys changed to Merlin, the mage holding his laugh the best he can point at himself, then he points at Aerys, and last, he imitates someone wiping their ass, telling them that he is the reason Aerys took all this time to arrive, and at that moment all faces turned into stone, all present had to hold their laughs, smiles, giggles, chuckles and grins harder than ever before, the only reason Viserys isn't spelling the beans is that Merlin had cast a spell that prevents the younger Targaryen to see what he is doing after his father had taken a seat, Aerys might've realized the stares focused on Merlin, for he turns his face to look at the mage the exact moment he stopped his imitation, Merlin not wanting to tempt fate just bows to Aerys and leaves.
Merlin Ambrosius POV
When he arrived in his room Merlin smells the scent of tulips, looking at the source he sees a fat and bald man, wearing robes and eating small pieces of bread while sitting in the chair of his room for some reason.
"I'm sorry, wrong room.". Merlin closes his eyes and gives the man a warm smile preparing to leave.
"Oh no, you aren't mistaken Lord Merlin, please, take a seat.". The bald man says, drinking some water from a jar that is resting next to the bread he is eating.
Merlin sat in front of the man and takes another look at him, he had a skin tone darker than most, but his eyes were too narrow for a Dornish, so the mage assumes this man is from Essos, a continent on the other side of the world.
"So, who are you? An admirer? I'm flattered but you should've waited until the morrow.". Merlin jokes, but the man shows no reaction making the mage's face become neutral like the man's, it appears he means business so Merlin would let the quest find the limits of his patience for later. "Sorry, proceed.".
"I guess introductions are needed. I am Varys, master of whispers of king Aerys' court.". The man says, giving his hand for Merlin to shake, the mage looks at the hand in front of him but doesn't shake it, Merlin could see Varys is only doing it as a courtesy and a way to make him lower his guard around him, it wasn't working and the bald man knows it.
"How can I help you Varys?". Merlin asks after the man retreats his arm.
"I wanted to talk to you, everyone wants to.". Varys says, he finishes eating and rubs his hands at each other before changing his posture on the chair and looking Merlin in the eyes. "My first question Lord Merlin is, what do you hope to find in Westeros.".
"I thought you already know by now, given your job at Aerys court.". Merlin says, Varys is as blank as a door and doesn't react to the mage's words who sighs in frustration and lowers his head, shaking it before rising again and looking at Varys. "I land to call my own and to build my castle, that is what I want.".
Merlin had many theories about why he came to his lands, but they didn't matter anymore, he was here, whatever the holy grail did after the mage made his wish brought him here, even if he could return there was nothing left back there, Camelot was destroyed, Arthur was dead, everything he held dearly gone, in Westeros he gained his wish, not how he wanted but better than nothing, a new land, new people, and most of all, a new beginning, and despite still not knowing about the land and its history he was already feeling like back at Camelot, there were good people here, and Merlin wanted to help them, he just needed to know the best way to do it.
"I do believe in you.". Varys says, Merlin raises an eyebrow at that, wondering if he is speaking the truth or just trying to make the mage lower his guard so he could obtain more information. "But what I really wonder is what you will do after.".
"You don't like magic do you Varys?". Merlin says, tired of this game he jumped all the way the man in front of him was trying to get by beating around the bush in an attempt of making Merlin spill it all out after getting frustrated enough from talking to Varys, he knows he is right because Varys widen his eyes when Merlin spoke, it was subtle, but not enough for the mage. "I saw the way you looked at me after I came out of that pyre alive, you had hidden it perfectly, but I saw that look thousands of times before, I'm always able to see it, no matter how good people are in hiding it, so why don't you admit it right now, if you don't, I would like for you to leave.".
"You are right, I hate magic.". Varys says, this time showing emotion and not hiding before a facade of a man who feels nothing, Merlin could see years of frustration in his eyes and his voice, and the only reason Varys wasn't screaming and struggling is that he spent too many years acting like a calm person and forgot how to act like a frustrated man. "When I was young a man gave me a potion that made me unable to move or speak, but did nothing to dull my senses as my manhood was cut off at the stem, then burnt in a brazier in a blood magic ritual, as the man had no further use for me, I was tossed out on the streets alone to die.".
Varys was almost out of breath after the words were spilled, once he manages to catch his breath his eyes widen, this time more than he did a few seconds ago, he looks at himself and realizes he is on his feet, his distance only a few inches away from Merlin and his posture was that of a man looking for a fight, for the first time in years Varys let his temper get lose and his emotions take over, he sits back in the chair, shocked, not believing what he did and what he just told Merlin.
"I understand, and you have a good reason to hate magic.". Merlin says, the mage believes the reason for Varys to lash out as he did is mostly that the man that hurt him did it for no reason, a mere trick he believe that worked, while Merlin could do true magic and didn't need to cut anyone, making Varys believes his pain was all for nothing. "Are you afraid? Afraid that I will do the same thing to others?".
"Yes.". Varys says, his composure recovered, but barely, for some reason, Merlin might've been the only person capable of making Varys be so open with his emotions as he is being right now. "I saw what your magic can do, it terrifies me to know that unlike that man you can succeed in what he was trying to accomplish.".
"A reasonable reason to fear me.". Merlin nods his head, he isn't suspicious of Varys anymore, all he was seeing was a man that was hurt for no reason at all, he would pity him if Varys wanted any, but the mage respects his wishes and refrain from doing it. "Blood magic, magic that requires you to remove something out of a person's body, a horrible type of magic, I know many magics that use blood, even used some of them to help people recover from wounds and blood loss, but I never once performed magic that requires the mutilation of a person's body, you don't like me, and I can see that you don't trust me either, the only thing I can give you is my word that I won't perform blood magic, it goes against everything I believe in, it's not enough, but all it's I can do.".
"I'm afraid I can take your word for it, Lord Merlin.". Varys says, Merlin knows he wouldn't be able to, he gives a sigh and points his staff at the water jar Varys was drinking from and makes it float at him, he sees Varys wince and a little fear showing on his eyes but doesn't pay too much attention to it.
"So, you resort to poison.". Merlin says, he cast a spell over the jar and cleans the water in it from the poison inside, the spell also shows him what poison it is and how to make it, he notices now that Varys had completely given up on his plot and isn't even denying that the water was poisoned, he drunk from the jar with the knowledge he could've died, all to make sure Merlin would drink and never see the sunrise the next day. "It saddens me, not the poison, the fact that you are willing to die just to make sure I go with you.".
"That is how afraid and desperate I am my Lord.". Varys says, sounding melancholic, his plot failed and now his life was forfeit, there was no reason to hold the tears. "I suffered enough once, I'm too scared of going through that pain again, being left to rot, without anyone to give me a single care in the world, I'm also scared that because of you the same fate will fall over some poor and innocent soul.".
Merlin just watches as the man let the tears fall, a sad expression appears on the mage's face, he has no doubts that Varys may deserve death, his attempt at poisoning Merlin is proof enough, but a part inside of Merlin believes he can't bring himself to just let him die like this.
'I'm gonna regret this.'. Merlin tells himself and gives a huge sigh, he closes his eyes trying to imagine all the possibilities this action will come back to haunt him in the future, once thinking about it gets boring the mage opens his eyes again and look at the man who was now silently crying and looking at the floor, waiting for his death.
Merlin points his staff at Varys and a weak light covers him before vanishing not too long after, the master of whispers stops looking at the floor and looks the mage in the eyes, trying to understand what he did. "I cured you. you won't die tonight, Varys, I only ask that you don't judge me because of my magic, but because of who I am, should I not convince you then feel free in trying to take my life again, but be warned, I won't be merciful next time.".
Varys can't do anything but looked shocked, trying to understand why would Merlin ever do something like this, Varys couldn't name one single person that would go to the length of saving the life of the person that tried to kill them, hundreds of thoughts go throughout his mind trying to find an answer as he watches Merlin get on his feet and going at the door of his room.
"Good night, Varys.". Merlin says, opening the door and gesturing for the man to leave, despite his calm voice and demeanor Varys could see there is no room for arguments, the Merin in front of him is the same Merlin whose imposing figure talked to Aerys in the main hall, and Varys knew this Merlin was one whose wrath he should never invoke.
The eunuch gets off his chair and slowly walks his way out of the room, he stops in front of Merlin and bows, the mage could see that Varys did it out of respect and could feel that for the first time since Varys saw him, the man was seeing Merlin in a new light, after bowing Varys leaves the room, his face is back at that emotionless expression he always uses.
Merlin closes the door and sighs once more, too tired to give the matter any thought, letting Varys live was a mistake, and Merlin would never have any problem in making the body disappear which means killing him wouldn't be so hard, yet he did the stupid thing and cured the man who tried to poison him for the pettiest reason someone could hate a mage for, given all that happened, Merlin can only look forward and say.
"WHAT THE HELL I JUST DID?". Merlin screams from the bottom of his heart, the world was always a complicated place, and because of that Marlin always tried to have the most simplistic views of things to make living in this complicated world easier, for example, Varys was dying from poison, saving a man from death is a good thing so Merlin saved him, but Varys is not a good man, does saving him makes Merlin worse than him or better? The magic caster is out of words, he always tried to be a good person, but what should a good person do when a bad person needs help, help them or not? The mage can't find answers and when he tries to ignore one question two more pop into his head, it was frustrating.
Grabbing his hair in frustration Merlin closes his eyes and takes long and deep breaths. After a few minutes of meditation, the mage opens his eyes, now calmer and more level-headed Merlin points his staff at the door of his room and casts a spell on it, the spell would warn him of anyone entering or trying to enter his room and whom this person is, this way he will know if someone manages to pull a stunt like Varys did when he is sleeping or outside.
Ready to go to bed and sleep Merlin prepares to lock the door and call it a day before someone knocks. Taking another breath Merlin opens the door and sees Rhaegar, for some reason the bard prince has a tone of books with him and the mage can clearly see that they are heavy and Rhaegar is almost falling on his knees due to the weight. Getting out of Rhaegar's way Merlin watches in silence as his guest enters his room and drops all the books he has with him on the table of the room, as Rhaegar tries to catch his breath Merlin looks at the books, all different except for one detail, they all had the word dragon written on the title as Merlin observes the books' spines. Once Rhaegar is recovered, he looks at Merlin and smiles.
"Good thing you told me you wanted to read the books we have about dragons. My father would force you to read them either way.". Rhaegar says as he gives the books a little slap over them. "Not that he would be able to.".
Merlin chuckles at the sight of Aerys attempting to make him read books, all tries ended up with the king being enchanted by the mage and forced to do a ridiculous dance in front of all court while singing a stupid song imitating a little girl's voice, or just being transformed into a sheep, maybe he would do that someday.
"What can you tell me about these books?". Merlin asks looking at Rhaegar, not believing he would be able to do it once he starts to focus on the books.
"These books were all written by Targaryens, but what makes them special is that these books, unlike other books about dragons, are the only ones written by actual Dragonriders and those who managed to hatch dragon eggs.". Rhaegar says, looking at the books as if they were precious gems with no price, and given how dragons are extinct Merlin could understand why Rhaegar would think like that. "Now that House Targaryen lost Blackfyre and Dark Sister, these are our most valuable heirlooms, so please Merlin, don't let anything happen to them.".
Merlin just bows to Rhaegar, he would respect and take care of these books it is the bare minimum he could do, Rhaegar nods in response and live the mage alone.
After locking his door, Merlin lays on his bed, this had been a long day, he had a meeting with the king after waking up, he helped Lyanna deal with some bullies, a spare match against Brandon and Ned Stark, Robert Baratheon, he told the royal family about magic and his homeland, and just now he has thwarted an assassination attempt and for some reason showed kindness to the assassin knowing that he would probably try again.
'Is it pride? Do I need to convince Varys or myself that sparing his life makes me above him?'. Merlin questions himself again, remembering all the times he was teaching Arthur about how a king would always have to make difficult choices.
Taking a last look at the pile of books Rhaegar left Merlin closes his eyes, he would read them in the morrow, fearing that if he started now he would spend the whole night reading, and his guts are telling him that he will not like what he is going to see written in those books, the fact that Aerys and Viserys believe they can control a dragon is proof, and even without the madness, he is sure that some people on those books might've felt the same way.
'I really hope the Targaryens respect their dragons because I'm not planning on hatching one from them so soon if they didn't.'. The mage tells himself before closing his eyes and letting sleep take over.
The Next Day
After breaking his fast with the royal family while Aerys was having problems with his stomach again, Merlin returned to his room, there was only one day left before the start of the tourney and he wanted to learn about this land's dragons and explore the Isle of Faces before it's over, it is pretty obvious right now that once the party is over, he will be dragged to King's Landing.
'Weird name, it's like naming a country… Country.'. The mage chuckles as he opened the first book and started his long reading. "Well, there are too many books and not much time, let's jump the reading and absorb the information the quickest way.". Merlin says with a smile, he opens his free hand and points it toward the books, a white circle forms around the mage's hand and the pile of paper over the table, then a spell that will allow Merlin to instantly learn everything that is written in the books is cast. "Gefræge". In seconds Merlin learns everything that would've taken hours throughout normal reading and sits on his bed after absorbing so much knowledge at once, feeling only one thing, anger.
Merlin wasn't happy, at all. After learning what's inside the books Rhaegar gave him only disappointment was left, at first, he was impressed, dragons have a wild and very destructive nature, for the Targaryens to be able to befriend three of them was impressive, but then arrogance took over, they believed their dragons obeyed them, it was hilarious to the mage, dragons can't be controlled, they only tolerated the Targaryens, the proof was Joffrey Velaryion. If they really controlled them the prince wouldn't be dropped to his death. Then there was the dragon pit, which was the biggest insult and humiliation a dragon could suffer, dragons are free creatures who belong to the skies, not locked in a glorified cage, to learn that the Targaryens not only let the dragons imprisoned but also languish to the point they wouldn't grow larger than cats was the breaking point for Merlin, if he had doubts about hatching a dragon to the Targaryen family now he was absolutely sure, it would be a mistake, if they wanted a dragon they would have to hatch themselves, he would not be an accomplice in a such horrendous crime against such marvelous creatures.
"There is still the matter of getting an egg.". Merlin tells himself. While hatching an egg for the Targaryens was off the table he still wanted to hatch one for himself, dragons were loyal to those they deemed friends and unlike the Targaryens Merlin wouldn't dare to lock or try to control it. "If these books are right, Dragonstone isn't the only place where I might find an egg.".
Merlin thinks about Winterfell, according to the books, the dragon Vermax had laid eggs in its crypts, if it is true Merlin thought that the north would be a better option than Dragonstone, but he would take the decision after the tourney, there was still too much to think of.
Laying on his bed the mage looks at the ceiling in deep thought, Merlin starts to compare the dragons of his land to the dragons of this land, not their physical appearance that was too obvious and ridiculous, the only difference is that his land's dragons were bigger and had four limbs, while Westeros' dragons only had two, making them look more like wyverns that actual dragons, the only reason Merlin didn't call them that is that wyverns don't have fire breath while westerosis dragons do. What he was really comparing them is their stand regarding magic, the dragons of his land were creatures that generated Magical Energy merely by breathing, their lungs acting as spiritual worlds, and they possessed traits from other types of monsters, the dragons of Westeros appeared to be the same at first, when they were alive magic was stronger, winters were shorter and not as harsh, and that changed after the dance, but there was a crucial difference, the dragons of his land were arguably the greatest and most powerful source magic ever had, but the dragons of Westeros were not, something else holds that title, and the mage already had a feeling what it was.
The next topic Merlin starts to think of was the Targaryen's so-called dragon blood, while it is possible for a human to have the blood of a dragon, whether induced artificially like Arthur or from having Mixed-Blood like Elizabeth Báthory, a little demon that tried to cut his hair off in the Holy Grail War just like Ned did, the way the Targaryen's did it look completely different in comparison. Simply having dragon blood within you grants humans high-level Magic Resistance able to easily dispel magecraft from the Age of Gods, and Arthur even had a Magic Core that far surpasses the Magic Circuits of humans, the Targaryen's dragon blood on the other hand, worked in a very specific way, one of them is making sure the inbreeding doesn't make them deformed and sterile unfortunately while it protects the body and the magic it doesn't protect the mind as Merlin saw with Aerys and learned about Maegor the cruel, it's magic is also what made their dragons compel to their commands and bond with them, the mage frowns when thinking about it, whoever fused Targaryen's blood with dragon blood wanted to keep this power to themselves, a valid reason, but instead of using a better method like making only the heirs of House Targaryen possess the dragon blood despite whom they marry, they purposely made inbreeding the only way to keep it strong as the book showed the mage that having Targaryen blood mixed with other types didn't ensure they would be able to ride a dragon.
"Why does it have to be so complicated.". Merlin sighs, he closes his eyes and immediately opens them once his magic alerts him that someone is in the door and the sound of opening resonates. "Hi, Rhaella.".
The queen's eyes widen as she watched the mage laying in his bed, looking to the ceiling yet somehow guessing who it was at the door before even opening, Rhaella knew it was magic, and that something like this was probably nothing to Merlin, she just didn't expect him to use it, and the fact that he needed to use a spell that tells him who is at his door made the queen frown for he knew why he would need a spell like this.
"Who dared?". Rhaella closes the door and entered the room with loud and strong steps, her frown was so scary that Merlin didn't cower because he only knew she was frowning, not looking at it. "Who entered your room?".
"Who didn't?". Merlin says, still looking at the ceiling using his hands as a pillow under his head, showing no emotion, only contemplating because of the many new thoughts in his head given by all the new information he has obtained. "Everyone saw my magic. It is obvious some attempted to enter my room to discover anything they could.".
It wasn't a lie, but it wasn't the truth either, and Merlin feels that Rhaella knows, the woman, despite not having said it, became his auto-proclaimed mother and was doing everything she could to convince Merlin, herself, and everyone else that he was her son. The mage liked the fact she felt that way, but he already had parents despite never knowing about them due to numerous refusals by those who did, every time he used his magic to see who they were it showed something different in each attempt, one was that he was the son of a human woman and a dragon who assumed the form of a man, other showed his mother as the princess of Wales and his father as an incubus who lived in the gap between the earth and the moon, that one would explain a lot. After the death of Gaius, his maternal uncle, adoptive father and only living relative, he didn't want to be adopted again, if he became the queen's son it might break his heart to see Rhaella dying when her time comes.
"Merlin, please tell me.". The queen says, sitting in a chair beside Merlin and grabbing his hand with a soft grip making the mage turn his head at her and look at the worried expression her face has, seeing the sadness in her eyes for his refusal of telling her. "I want to help you.".
Merlin sighs in frustration, it's his fault after all, had he just let Varys die Rhaella wouldn't be feeling like this, now it is his responsibility to deal with. "Varys, he came last night and tried to poison me, he even drank the poison himself to convince me that the water in my room was clean.".
"He did what?". Rhaella says, she looked calm but her eyes and the tone of her voice fit a real dragon making Merlin want to re-evaluate what the dragon blood the Targaryens possess is really capable of.
"Tried to poison me, something called tears of Lys, I knew because after I cleansed the water it showed me what it was.". Merlin says, showing an emotionless expression on his face and eyes as he just looks at Rhaella, his chest feels the warmth of Rhaella's protective nature and it almost hurt due to his refusal to accept the mother's love she wants to give him. "It failed, but, *sigh* I cured him, it just felt wrong letting him kill himself like that.".
Trying to keep her anger in check, Rhaella closes her eyes and takes a deep breath, her grip on Merlin's hand tightens and when her eyelids open, she just stares at Merlin for a few seconds before kissing his forehead and getting up.
"I'll deal with the eunuch.". Rhaella says, regal like a true monarch. "Due to his usefulness, I won't be able to kill him, Aerys wouldn't permit it, but I'm still able to make him regret messing with a dragon.".
Merlin is impressed and can just nod in understanding, for some reason his reaction makes Rhaella smile, and her smile for some reason makes Merlin smile until Rhaella pinches his cheek, it was a little painful but the mage felt the love under the surface. "Don't you ever dare to lie or hide something like this for me ever again, young man. Do you understand?".
"Yes.". Merlin says, caressing the cheek Rhaella just pinched before she suddenly grabs his head with both arms and gives him a hug. "Rhaella?".
"Yes sweetie.". Rhaella says, not letting Merlin go.
"Would you *sigh* would you hate me if I decided to not hatch dragons for your family?". Merlin closes his eyes just waiting for the response, he was a cheerful person most of the time, when things got serious, he still managed to smile, when he was supposed to be serious, he managed to be, sadness though, those moments despite not being rare Merlin rarely feel it, only three times he felt it the most; when he learned his parents were deceased. When Kilgharrah left after his destiny of training Merlin was fulfilled, and when Arthur died in his arms, the last one being the only time that made him scream, almost falling into despair. Despite his sadness not being on the same level as those three, it is enough for him to have a small expression of sadness show on his face as Rhaella lets go of him.
"No.". Rhaella says, Merlin looks at her trying to understand why would she not care if he didn't hatch their dragons, but the queen was looked like an immovable wall, Merlin thought it was impressive, she could read him so easily while he appears to barely be able to scratch the surface of her way of thinking.
"Why?". Is the only thing Merlin says, too curious he sits on the bed and looks the queen in the eyes, wanting to learn her reasons more than anything at the moment.
"Has anyone ever told you about the tragedy at Summerhall, and how Rhaegar was born?". Rhaella says, Merlin could only shake his head, anxiety crawling over his spine over what this story will entail, for the tone Rhaella has in her voice and the word tragedy in the title, the mage already knows it won't be a story that has a happy ending. "The Tragedy at Summerhall was a fire at Summerhall, a pleasure castle of House Targaryen in the Dornish Marches, that happened two years and two decades ago.".
Rhaella gets on her feet and starts to take slow steps around Merlin's room, her eyes so intense the mage's instincts tell him to keep quiet and do nothing but to keep listening.
"The conflagration caused the deaths of, among others, King Aegon V Targaryen, my grandfather. His eldest son and my uncle, Prince Duncan Targaryen. And Ser Duncan the Tall, the Lord Commander of the Kingsguard. No one knows what caused the fire, but everyone knows it was connected to my grandfather's desire to restore dragons to the Seven Kingdoms.".
Rhaella said the last words with so much disgust that Merlin almost thought she would throw up, it wasn't hard for the wizard to understand that the fire wasn't the only thing that changed Rhaella's life, but she and every other survivor would be forced to deal with the consequences.
"The last years of his reign were consumed by a search for ancient lore about the dragon breeding of Valyria.". This made Rhaella stop speaking and looking at Merlin, instead, she was looking at the pile of books on the table in his room, the wizard looks at where her eyes are at and feels his heart crushed and stabbed while his eyes widened with the realization, understanding that he is basically following the same route Aegon V did on Rhaella's point of view, and once his face turns back to Rhaella he can that she is mad at the fact Merlin is being 'forced' to do it because of Aerys.
Rhaella continues. "Aegon commissioned journeys to places as far away as Asshai, with the hopes of finding texts and knowledge that had not been preserved in Westeros, then, in 259 AC, Aegon summoned many of those closest to him to Summerhall to celebrate the impending birth of his first great-grandchild.".
"Rhaegar.". Merlin says emotionless and expressionless, receiving a nod from Rhaella, understanding her pain to a certain level.
"I watched with the others as Aegon brought seven eggs, to honor the seven gods.". Rhaella stops for a moment as Merlin lets out a weak chuckle, to avoid misinterpretation he tells her about his land's God and the belief they all shared that he was the only true God whereas the others were false, made by human hands, Rhaella just nods saying that she also didn't believe in the seven, that the Targaryens should've kept the Valyrian gods before proceeding with the tale. "Aegon made the stupid decision of trying to use wildfire, he brought pyromancers, he created a great pyre, all stupid decisions, in the end, everything had gone wrong, many died, and the fire destroyed the castle, leaving it in ruin. Many believed sorcery was involved, a lie and superstition that I refuse to believe now.".
"Is it because of me and my magic?". Merlin asks, understanding what Rhaella meant, Varys tried to kill him because his magic made the master of whispers believe his suffering was for nothing, but Rhaella was the opposite, despite seeing his magic she didn't believe her suffering on that day was for nothing, instead, she blamed Aegon and his decision, believing it was the stupidity of his part now that she witnessed what real magic is, the mage feels conflicted about this despite knowing none of this is his fault.
Lowering his head, the mage couldn't bring himself to see Rhaella in the eyes after hearing the story, but suddenly he feels her arms wrapping around him into a tight hug, followed by a wet sensation over his robes on the shoulder area, the mage realizes what is happening, the queen was crying, now that anyone couldn't see her face it was the perfect time for her to let all the pain and grief out of her.
"There wasn't even time to grieve the losses. My father Jaehaerys had to assume the throne and prepare for the war of the Ninepenny kings, while I was too busy taking care of my son whose birth was on that inferno of flames." Rhaella's words were getting harder to understand due to the sobs and mumblings caused by the tears that haven't stopped dropping from her eyes. "Since then, I've lost eight, EIGHT, children, before Viserys was born, three were miscarriages, one was a stillbirth, my darling Shaena was also stillborn, my precious Daeron died after half a year, my sweet Aegon was born two months premature and died after one year, and Jaehaerys, my dear Jaehaerys died the same year he was born.".
Merlin was stoned, it felt like Rhaella just dropped the coldest bucket of water over his head, finally understanding why Rhaella was so attached to him, why she treated Merlin as if he was her own child, Jaehaerys was the breaking point for her, had Viserys died like his siblings the stress and trauma of losing yet another child would have led Rhaella into madness and made her become just like Aerys, Merlin doesn't know what to say so he reciprocates the hug Rhaella is giving him to let her know he understands her sorrow and to feel his warmth just like she is doing for him.
When they finally let go of their hug Merlin finally understood one thing, despite his mind's refusal, his heart already accepted Rhaella as his mother, from the moment he awoke from his unconsciousness until now his body has been showing its acceptance, how else would Rhaegar's comment about them made him blush? him, Merlin, blushing from embarrassment like a shy teen, how Rhaella somehow managed to intimidate him despite all his magic? how she was able to make him be so open with her and tell her about Varys and his poison attempt? but most of all, all the warmth and conform he felt whenever Rhaella displayed an act of love towards him, each smile, each hug, each kiss made the mage's heart feel the love and care of a mother, all these emotions were because he was already feeling like her son, and now as they stand in front of each other the only thing Merlin can do is smile at her and say.
"Thanks for telling me this, it couldn't be easy.".
"It was nothing.". Rhaella responds with a smile as sweet as Merlin's and walks away.
"What would you have done if I hatched a dragon for you?". Merlin asks just as Rhaella reaches the door of his room, his curiosity got the best of him after listening to the queen's story, the mage could see that, unlike the rest of her family, she didn't care or want a dragon anymore, blaming them just like she blamed her grandfather for the tragedy at Summerhall and all the children she lost.
Rhaella just smiles and gives Merlin a last look before leaving. "I would have taken my sons, all three of them, and flown far away, live a common life, and never worry about losing anyone anymore.".
As the queen leaves Merlin just looks at where she was, not long after, he hears the sound of rain, the sound makes the wizard once again goes into deep thought. When Merlin decides he had enough he leaves his room, he had one more thing to do before the tourney starts.
Not caring about the rain Merlin is now in front of the lake that surrounds the Isle of faces, he could just create an ice bridge but he doesn't want to be followed by anyone.
"Swimming it is.". Merlin says as he starts to undress with his magic both his staff and robes vanish, his robes were all wet already but swimming with them on was a good way to drown yourself.
While many would think Merlin was being stupid the mage believes this is the perfect time to explore the isle, the rain is making everyone stay inside, unlike other people Merlin can cast a spell to avoid getting sick from swimming in this climate so as he enters the water he starts walking until the water's deep forces him to float and swim. Like the isle of Faces Merlin could feel magic inside the lake and decide to study it once his business there was over, for now, he needed to focus on arriving at his destiny.
After Merlin arrives at the isle of Faces, he makes his staff and robes return and takes his first step before stopping. Closing his eyes, he crosses his arms and puts his hand on his chin, contemplating some very important detail that made all the difference on his way to the isle of Faces the mage notices something.
"Why didn't I just cast a spell to walk over water instead of swimming?". Merlin asks himself with a blank expression.
Merlin chuckles at his lack of attention and starts walking, when the mage looks around, he finally understands why the place is called Isle of Faces, almost every tree has a face carved in it.
"So, these are the weirwood trees Lyanna and Howland talked about.". Merlin says stopping in front of one of the trees, he looks at the face it has and imitates it, it was smiling happy, a perfect feeling and expression since it was what the mage was feeling at the moment. "Ha… HAHAHA.".
Merlin gives a happy and cheerful laugh, his happiness reached new grounds because the whole island was flooding with magic and the mage felt all of it engulfing him, it was like a fireplace keeping him warm in the nights of winter. The mud, the rain, nothing appeared to matter or bother him in this place, Merlin just opens his arms and fall over the ground on his back, the pureness of the magic in this place was great and he couldn't get enough of it.
"Ah! this place is perfect.". Merlin says while looking at the dark clouds and the water dripping from them, he couldn't stop smiling, feeling more alive than ever before. "Yes, it is perfect.".
Merlin lifts his free hand and tries to reach the skies with it, he closes his fist and his eyes, the magic in the air was fulfilling and he wanted to know why.
Awakening from his pondering and getting on his feet Merlin stares at the weirwood tree once more, he puts his hand over it and caresses the tree's trunk.
"You've been here for a long time, haven't you?". Merlin asks the tree as if it would actually respond to his question, it looked silly and childish but the mage just couldn't stop. "What wonders have you seen? what stories do you have to tell? Would you share them with me? Would you let me see them?".
As if the tree answered in the positive Merlin puts his hand over the tree's face and closes his eyes once more.
"Cyþan.". Merlin says, casting the same spell he used on House Stark's Valyrian Greatsword Ice so he could see and learn everything about the tree.
Like a veil being taken out of his eyes for the first time, Merlin finally understood everything. It was all premeditated, his victory in the holy grail war, his wish after winning, the Targaryen family finding him, all so Merlin could come to this place and see everything, it was destiny, a destiny he has now fulfilled.
Magic, pure and raw magic, is what this was. This magic showed everything to Merlin, first, it showed the wish he made after winning the holy grail and he finally understood how he came to be in this new and strange land. It's because Westeros is Britain, Merlin wished for wars and tragedy to be erased and to give the world a new chance for life to flourish and grow with peace, and that's exactly what the holy grail gave him, but the way it did was to end the old world and create a new one. Merlin was out of breath after learning of this, but it didn't stop at that, the weirwood also showed him the true source of the magic of this new world, and it wasn't the dragons anymore, it was the weirwood trees themselves, and like magic in its pure energy form, the weirwoods also had a will and conscience, a conscience shared by every weirwood in the world that could only be seen by those they deemed worthy. After this new world was created, the weirwoods replaced the dragons as the generators of magical energy, while the dragons became the catalysts to this magic energy, like Merlin's staff is to his magic, making the magic that the weirwoods generated to be spread over this world by merely existing, explaining how people used to have magic and why winters were shorter when dragons were alive, also explaining why people couldn't manifest their magic anymore, without dragons left in the world the magic from the trees would start accumulating and when released it would be in a way that the magic shockwave from such energy would be sure to make the world once again restart from scratch.
"That is concerning. Guess I'll have to hatch a dragon, wanting or not.". Merlin says, trying to absorb all the information the tree gave him and barely even scratched the surface yet.
It didn't only show the story of magic, but the tree also showed him about the first men and the children of the forest. Their history, culture, customs, and more importantly, their magic, as Merlin learns more and more, his concerns grow more as well, and the greatest of his fears were the Others, Merlin heard that they were a dead army that tried to erase all life in the world eight thousand years ago, but the mage now knew better as the tree tells him the truth, something they haven't told even the children of the forest, the Others are actually Gaia Counter Force, the planet's own will to survive, created so the world can defend itself from extinction, in parts the first men and children are right, the Others objective is to destroy all life, but only so a new form can be born and rise to take the place of the formers. Merlin almost blames himself for it, but his old world also had a Counter Force, this new one would be created regardless.
The mage now knew what he had to do, after being shown everything, Merlin now had new purposes in his life; to fill the whole land of Westeros with more weirwood trees, hatch a dragon so magic can flow and flourish once more, make sure the living doesn't follow a path that will bring the dead back, and for last, maybe, just maybe, find a ruler for this kingdom that will bring prosperity in life and after their death.
"Ha… haha… HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA.". Merlin, despite his mourning for his fallen comrades just laughs for some reason, all this knowledge, all this discovery made him happy for some reason, a new world, new adventures, new people to meet, it was exciting and intoxicating, the mage couldn't stop himself from laughing, jumping, and feeling happy. "This is where my new journey will truly begin, and for that, I want my story to start on a beautiful and sunny day, in a beautiful place fit for the mage that will shake this world.".
Grabbing his staff with both hands Merlin closes his eyes and starts to cast his spells, first, he makes the rain stops, then he makes the skies turn blue with a yellow sun as bright and hot as summer has the right to be, and then, once Merlin opens his eyes again the green grass turns into beautiful pink flower petals, with the mage giving one happy and sincere smile before conjuring the final spell and cream of the crop.
"From the inner sea of the planet, from the tower of insight, from the four corners of paradise, let them know; their story is filled with blessings. Only those free of sin may pass… GARDEN OF AVALON.".
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Author's note: Sorry for the cliffhanger, I hope this change in the lore of magic doesn't trigger too many people, but let's be honest, FATE's lore is very, very complicated, and due to Merlin being in another world I had to mix it with how the magic on Planetos work.
Now, as you all see, Merlin built Avalon on the isle of faces, there's no reason to keep quiet since most of you already figured that out, and because it will be the first thing you will all see at the beginning of the next chapter. So that's it.
Now, due to the more serious tone in this chapter I know some of you might not like some changes regarding Merlin but I hope you understand they are necessary sometimes, otherwise, there will be no character growth and you will be stuck with the same character from the beginning of the journey when it ends, but I promise he will be back to his more cheerful self in the next one.
One more thing, to all of you who are wondering if we will have a holy grail war on this story, YES, we will have a holy grail war, HOWEVER, I won't say when or who will be in it.
Thank you all for reading, it was really hard to write and edit by myself, took me the entire week to make it, I could've finished earlier but, you know, life, school, work, and bills, had I none of this I would probably dedicate my entire life into this, anyway, thank once again, you are awesome.
Please leave a review, feedback always helps me improve (please be polite if you didn't like it).
English is not my first language.
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