Chapter Text
Summer, Ages 30 | 38
More individuals settled on Arthur’s mountains as the once-quiet peaks were now home to multiple growing families, including their own. With the arrival of their fledgling offspring after a gruelling 13.5-month pregnancy each—Elara, aged four, and Finnigan, or ‘Finny,’ aged two—the cavern had undergone a remarkable transformation. What was once a simple, cosy dwelling had evolved into a vibrant, functional home tailored for their growing family.
All along their arms, legs, and back, patches of black dragon scales adorned their skin, each one a perfect match to the color of their hair. The rest of their skin, though predominantly human, had a subtle, scaled texture that shimmered when it caught the light. Their brilliant blue eyes were slitted, much like their father's, giving them an intense and otherworldly gaze. Instead of fingernails, they both sported sharp claws on their hands and feet, which were strong and adapted enough that shoes were entirely unnecessary.
Tiny horns jutted out from their heads, adding to their draconic appearance, and small, baby wings sprouted from their backs, though not yet large enough for flight. Their teeth were sharp, pointed like their father's, designed for their carnivorous diet. Yet, despite their formidable appearance, they were just as content to consume fruits and vegetables as they were raw or cooked meats.
The imaginative and sweet Elara had Merlin’s slender build with lush, thick black hair that draped along her back, while her rambunctious and mischievous yet charming toddler brother, Finny, had Merlin's messy black hair that curled around his ears. Finny still sported a chubby baby face that only added to his endearing charm.
Indicative of their hybrid nature, even at such a young age, the fledglings were already significantly more muscular and robust than human children their age, their strength and energy seemingly boundless.
The fledglings were born with magic from the very start, and their powers only grew stronger each passing day. As their young played in the sunlit pasture with the other children who were five years their senior, their magic sparked with each step.
“They may even surpass me one day!” Arthur jokingly lamented, eyes brimming with fondness and fatherly voice filled with a mix of pride and mock exasperation.
Merlin giggled. “Oi, but you shall always be my very handsome dragon king!”
Arthur’s bright eyes twinkled as he watched Elara effortlessly levitate a cluster of flowers while Finnigan made playful sparks dance in the air. “I’ll have to start taking notes from them soon.”
Merlin, who was kneeling beside Elara, laughed softly, shaking his head. He glanced over at Arthur with a warm smile. “No matter how powerful they become, you’ll always be the one who grounds them. But in all seriousness, dragons are one of the most powerful magical creatures in the world." Merlin chuckled. "Unless one of them becomes Emrys 2.0, I don't think you'll have anything to worry about.”
Arthur smiled warmly, heart swelling at the sight of their youngsters, each one so full of magic and potential. “Perhaps, but Emrys 2.0 or not,” he said with a playful smirk, “I’d like to see them try to outmatch their father. You know the saying: shoot for the moon, and at the very least, you’ll land among the stars.”
Merlin rolled his eyes affectionately, but the fondness in his expression was unmistakable. “I’m sure they’ll give you a run for your money soon enough.”
Arthur chuckled, the sound low and rumbling, as he draped a wing over Merlin’s shoulders. “Let them try. I’ll still be the dragon king, even when they’re old enough to challenge me.” He pressed a soft kiss to Merlin’s temple. “But you know, on the off chance that they do surpass me, at least I’ll get to boast that they’re ours.”
Elara excitedly turned to her fathers. “Look, Daddies! My flowers are flying!” She twirled around, her tiny wings fluttering with glee as the flowers gracefully followed her movements.
Arthur crouched down to her level, face beaming with pride. “I see, my little sorceress. You’re getting so good at controlling your magic. I’m very proud of you.”
Finnigan, who was experimenting with creating small bursts of light, waddled over to Merlin. “Daddy, look!” he exclaimed, holding up his tiny hands as the light flickered brightly between his fingers. “Me make shine big bright!”
Merlin ruffled Finnigan’s hair affectionately. “You’re doing amazing, Finny. Just remember, magic is like a tool. It’s how you use it that counts.”
Arthur joined them, wrapping a wing around Merlin’s shoulders. “I have a feeling our little fledglings are going to be quite the duo. They’re already showing so much promise.”
Merlin nodded, gaze tender as he watched their offspring. “They’re both incredible. I can’t wait to see how they continue to grow and what they’ll achieve.”
Elara looked up with a mischievous grin. “Can we make all the plants shiny someday?”
Arthur chuckled. “I wouldn’t put it past you, Elara. With your magic, I’m sure you’ll light up the whole world if you wanted to.”
Finnigan’s eyes sparkled with excitement. “We show eveyone cool magic?”
Merlin smiled, pulling them both into a hug. “That’s right. And no matter where your magic takes you, remember that we’ll always be here cheering you on.”
Arthur’s heart swelled as he made eye contact with Merlin. “They’re growing so fast, aren’t they?”
Merlin, with Elara tucked close to his side, nodded. “Too fast,” he whispered affectionately, watching their fledglings as they continued to practise their magic, their little sparks of power lighting up the room like fireflies. “But they’re so bright, Arthur. So full of magic and life. The power in them.”
“Yes, I sense it too. These two are extremely powerful little sorcerers in the making. Magically, they take after you.”
Merlin shook his head, laughing softly. “No, they’re a perfect mix of both of us. Just look at them.. They’re something else, something so special.”
Arthur nuzzled Finn gently, watching as his son toddled over to join his sister. “They’re going to be unstoppable one day,” he said with pride, pulling Merlin closer to his side.
Merlin smiled. “One day. But for now, they’re just our little fledglings.”
. . . . .
The arrival of two of Lancelot’s best friends, the love birds, alpha Gwaine and beta Percival, brought more life to the highlands. At 30 years old, Gwaine was still in the prime of his adventurous spirit. His infectious energy, larger-than-life presence, and bold personality quickly transformed the once-quiet peaks into a lively centre of activity. Eager to explore and make the most of his new home, Gwaine was always organising gatherings and feasts, drawing everyone together. He brought a sense of joy and fun everywhere he went. His knack for storytelling and infectious laughter soon had the entire community gathered around laughing and joking along as he recounted tales of his exploits and adventures with Percy.
Percival, slightly older at 32, complemented Gwaine’s dynamism with his steady, nurturing presence. His practical skills and dependable nature made him an invaluable asset to the community. His methodical and thoughtful approach balanced out Gwaine's exuberance, creating a balanced dynamic. He was the only one who could keep Gwaine out of trouble. He was well and truly Gwaine’s rock and best friend.
Percival, unlike Gwaine, had a green thumb. Percy knelt in the rich soil of the village crop fields, his large hands carefully loosening the earth around a row of tender young plants. Despite his size, there was a gentleness to his touch that seemed almost out of place, and yet it was that very care that made the crops thrive under his hand. His green thumb was legendary in the village (second only to Merlin’s), every seed he planted sprouting into something vibrant and strong.
Beside him, Gwaine stretched lazily, pulling a few weeds with half-hearted effort. “I’ll never understand how you do it, mate,” he muttered, glancing at Percy’s flourishing row of cabbages. “I mean, I pull the weeds, I water the plants, I even talk to them sometimes—and yet, mine look like they’re begging for mercy.”
Percy chuckled, wiping a bit of dirt from his brow. “It’s not just about the work, Gwaine. You have to feel it. The earth, the plants—they tell you what they need if you’re paying attention.”
Gwaine raised an eyebrow, sitting back on his heels. “So, what are your plants telling you now? Because mine are just cursing me under their breath.”
“They’re saying thank you,” Percy replied with a grin, patting the soil gently. “And yours? Maybe they need a little more love, less of your terrible jokes.”
Gwaine snorted. “Maybe they’re too used to your magic touch. I swear, one day I’ll grow a plant that won’t look like it’s ready to run away from me.”
“Keep at it,” Percy teased, glancing at Gwaine’s patch of struggling crops. “Though at this rate, you might want to stick to pulling weeds.”
Gwaine laughed, tossing a clump of dirt at Percy. “I’ll leave the serious farming to you, mate. I’m more of the moral support type.”
Shortly after Gwaine and Percy settled, two more individuals arrived—Mordred, a proud young brown dragon with striking blue eyes, and his mate Sefa, a dusky brown dragon with soft blue eyes. The pair had not come alone; they brought their two chicks, Kaelan and Aurelia. Seven-year-old Kaelan bore his father’s deep russet-brown scales and brilliant blue eyes, while his five-year-old sister, Aurelia, was a near mirror image of her mother, including the gentle eyes.
The young dragons played among the others. They quickly formed bonds with ten-year-olds Gareth, Rylan, and Lyra, along with Elara and Finny. Elara connected deeply with Aurelia, or Auri for short, being so close in age with similar personalities.
But most shocking of all was another of Lancelot’s alpha friends. Leon and his alpha mate. Merlin could still remember the day she’d been introduced. Leon cleared his throat, drawing everyone’s attention. “I’d like you all to meet my lovely mate, the beautiful lady Morgana,” he announced, grey eyes filled with pride.
Morgana stepped into the room, her presence commanding yet calm. Her dark hair cascaded in soft waves over her pale shoulders, framing a face that was quite striking. But it was her eyes that truly captivated—one a bright blue, the other a deep, emerald green. Her alpha aura felt extremely powerful, a perfect balance to her mate, Leon.
Merlin, sensing an electric charge from his mate’s energy field, shot him a teasing grin. Arthur must really be taken by her beauty. “I see someone’s charm has—”
“Sister!” Arthur exclaimed joyfully and in awe, startling Merlin and causing him to jump slightly.
Leon’s eyes widened in surprise as he glanced over at Arthur. “I beg your pardon?” he asked, clearly taken aback.
Morgana, with a sly smirk, looked at Arthur with a devilish sparkle in her eyes. “Hello, little brother,” she greeted in a silky smooth voice.
Merlin’s eyes grew wide. “Your sister? But… Morgana is—”
Leon, confused but intrigued, glanced between Arthur and Morgana. “Wait, so Morgana is really—”
Before Leon could finish, Merlin’s eyes lit up with realisation. “Arthur, I didn’t know you could take on a human form! Can you show me?”
Arthur nodded, smiling smugly. “Of course I can. And alright.”
In a shimmer of golden light, Arthur’s dragon form dissolved, revealing a strikingly handsome, fit, naked, tanned middle-aged man with silky blonde hair with a chiselled, warrior-like physique and sharp jawline. Merlin immediately popped a boner. Good grief Arthur was fucking drop-dead sexy.
“Arthur, good gods!” Will shouted, looking away.
“My eyes!” wailed Gwaine, laughing, and decidedly not looking away. Percival slapped him good-naturedly on the bicep.
Arthur immediately turned back into dragon form, rolling his eyes. “Immature, the lot of you.” He met Merlin’s gaze with a knowing smile. “That was my human form,” he said, voice smooth and alluring. “What did you think?” He raised an eyebrow.
Merlin, attempting to hide his tented trousers, managed to stammer, “I… I think it’s absolutely amazing.”
Leon chuckled softly. “It seems Arthur’s human form has made quite an impression on Merlin.”
Arthur’s smile widened, and he gave Merlin a playful wink. “I’m glad you think so.”
Merlin’s cheeks flushed deep pink.
That night, the pair cast a privacy charm and went at it wildly and with abandon while Arthur was in his human form. Their little ones slept peacefully nearby, completely unaware.
Merlin couldn’t get enough of his mate’s human form. As a dragon, he was extremely sexy and attractive of course, but his human form was downright irresistible.
“I don’t know what it is, Arthur, but this form just hits different,” Merlin had said, whilst moaning and being fucked deeply by Arthur. The way Arthur's strong, muscular body moved against Merlin's, the warmth of his skin, the intensity of his gaze—it all drove Merlin to the edge.
Every touch, every kiss felt electric, and Merlin found himself craving the closeness and intimacy that Arthur's human form provided. It ignited a fire within Merlin that he couldn't control. Arthur’s strong hands roamed over Merlin's body, pulling him closer, as if trying to merge them into one. Merlin marvelled at the feel of Arthur's warm skin against his own, the way his muscles tensed and relaxed beneath his touch. Arthur’s eyes, too, dark with desire.
They moved together in a rhythm that was both wild and tender. Every moan, every gasp, only continued to fuel their passion. Arthur's human form allowed for a certain closeness that his dragon form couldn’t, and Merlin revelled in it, unable to get enough.
The night stretched on, filled with the sounds of their shared pleasure, the privacy charm keeping their world confined to just the two of them. By the time they finally collapsed into each other's arms, spent and satisfied, there was no doubt left—whether in dragon or human form, Arthur would always be one sexy beast to Merlin.
In the ever-growing microvillage's school, the teachers were Merlin and two dragons. Dragons were trusted due to their infinite knowledge of the world around them, for even at a young age, they had knowledge downloaded into them from their parents, who had knowledge downloaded into them from their parents, and so on and so forth.
Merlin taught all the younglings magick or how to harness magical ability if they did not naturally possess it. “Everyone has the potential to harness magick to some extent. It’s like having a river running through your land. Some people might have a direct connection to the river, while others might only feel its effects from afar. The key is learning how to tap into that river, how to feel its flow, and how to guide it.”
Mordred, in human form, taught them all how to read and write. “Reading is like unlocking a door to new worlds,” he explained. “We’ll start with simple words and sentences. As you get more comfortable, you can explore more complex texts.”
He opened the book to a page with a short story and began reading aloud. The younglings listened intently, captivated by the story. “See how the words on the page create images and tell a story?” Mordred continued. “As you practise reading, you’ll be able to bring these stories to life in your imagination.”
Morgana, on the other hand, imparted ancient knowledge of mathematics and science. “Today, you will learn the basics of the scientific method, which is a way to explore and investigate the world. The scientific method helps us ask questions, make observations, conduct experiments, and draw conclusions.”
She paused, smiling warmly. “One day, when you are much older, you will delve into the mysteries of the universe with subjects like astrophysics, string theory, and quantum physics. These fields will offer you a deeper understanding of the cosmos and the fundamental forces that shape our reality.”
Their offspring flourished under their parents’ and the homeschool’s tutelage, their days filled with learning, laughter, and a strong sense of belonging. As the years passed, their mountain home continued to be a vibrant hub of joy with Arthur as the guardian of his vast territory.
At times, they were visited by various other dragons. Arthur’s same-age best friend from when they were chicks, alpha Kilgharrah, often soared in from distant lands to spend time with them. It was clear he was an intellectual and his booming laughter often filled the cave, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie and warmth. Along with having immense knowledge, Kilgharrah had the gift of sight as a seer dragon.
He told Merlin that he used to belong to his father. “You knew my father?” Merlin asked, tears pricking at the edges of his vision.
“Oh yes, Balinor was a good man. It’s why you are a Dragonlord yourself. Or did you not realise?”
At Merlin’s look of confusion, Kilgharrah explained what a Dragonlord was and that it was passed down from father to son.
“You must have it wrong. Arthur doesn’t automatically do what I say,” Merlin countered.
“Perhaps with Arthur you never truly wished for him to blindly follow your every whim,” Kilgharrah suggested, eyes gleaming. “You always wanted him to be able to make his own choices unfettered.”
Merlin nodded. “That makes sense.. I needed his help when I first met him. He needed to be my guardian and teacher. I suppose it would be detrimental if he did everything I told him to do at that time, when I couldn’t have made good decisions for myself.” Merlin grinned, “Plus that would be boring..” And then a thought struck him. “So Finny is a Dragonlord?”
Kilgharrah laughed. “Oh yes, I dare say, young Finnigan will soon be a force to reckon with.”
Kilgharrah’s fledgling brother, 4-year-old beta Aithusa, always came along on his visits. Aithusa and Morgana had been inseparable, their bond as strong as blood siblings as Morgana took him in after the premature death of his and Kilgharrah's parents. Morgana took on the role of a loving auntie. The dragon chick Aithusa brought with him stories of distant realms and ancient magic, enchanting the whole community—offspring and adults alike.
“Aithusa!” Elara’s excited voice rang out as the young dragon, who was the size of a small pony, landed gracefully in the center of the village, his pure white scales gleaming in the afternoon sun. The village youngsters rushed forward, their eyes wide with anticipation, while the adults smiled warmly at the familiar sight.
Morgana stepped forward from the group, her mismatched eyes lighting up as she approached the draconic little one. “You’re late,” she teased, crossing her arms with a smirk.
Aithusa rumbled softly, lowering his head so Morgana could press her hand against his warm scales. "I gots stuck! Took forever!" he chirped, toddler voice high and melodic.
Finnigan tugged at Merlin’s sleeve, his wide blue eyes filled with wonder. “Does Aithusa have new stories, Daddy?” he asked eagerly.
Aithusa's eyes glinted with amusement as he looked at the little ones gathered around him. "Uh-huh! I gots lots of stories! Trees go whisper-whisper an' rivers are shiny like stars! Wanna hear?"
The children’s collective gasp of excitement was all the answer he needed, and as Aithusa began to weave his tale, Morgana leaned against his side, her bond with the young dragon as strong as ever.
Arthur, watching from the outskirts with Merlin by his side, smiled fondly. “Seems Aithusa never runs out of stories, does he?”
Merlin chuckled softly, leaning into Arthur’s side. “No, and neither does Morgana run out of patience for him. They’re inseparable.”
One day, Merlin approached Aithusa and gently spoke to the chick about his own past, about how he had lost his parents when he was young too. Merlin's voice softened as he shared the pain of his own childhood. Aithusa listened, small form trembling slightly as he processed Merlin's words.
"I didn't know," he said, draconic lip wobbly. "It gonna stop owie soon?"
Merlin smiled sadly, brushing a hand along Aithusa’s smooth white scales. The young dragon shifted, his wide eyes searching Merlin’s face for comfort.
“Not completely,” Merlin replied truthfully, “but it gets easier when you have others—family—who love you. You can always come to me if you need to talk about what happened to you. No young should ever have to experience the loss of a parent. And for both to be taken so soon... I can't even begin to understand the pain.”
Aithusa’s eyes flickered, his voice trembling like a child's. "But I got my brother now... and the village. They love me, right?"
Merlin’s smile grew softer, his hand still resting gently on Aithusa’s head. “Yes, you have Kilgharrah and the entire village, Aithusa. You are surrounded by friends, by people and dragons who care about you deeply. We're here for you, and we'll never let you feel alone.”
Aithusa blinked, young wings fluttering slightly. "But it's still hard, Merwin. Sometimes I miss them lots and lots. Even with Kilgawwah and ev'rybody, sometimes I still feel sad."
“I know,” Merlin said softly, pulling Aithusa closer. “It’s okay to feel that way. Grief doesn’t go away just because we have others, but it gets a little lighter when we share it with those who love us. Kilgharrah, your brother, he loves you more than you know. And all of us here—we’re your family now.”
Aithusa nestled into Merlin’s chest, voice small. "I don't wanna be sad anymore."
Merlin pressed a gentle kiss to his head. “You don’t have to face it alone, little one. We’ll help you through it. And with Kilgharrah and all your friends by your side, I promise you’ll feel better over time. You’re never going to be alone.”
Aithusa nodded slowly, letting the warmth of Merlin’s words sink in, feeling a little less heavy in his heart. "I got you all," he whispered, more to himself than anyone else.
“Yes,” Merlin whispered back, “you do.” Aithusa leaned into Merlin then, accepting the shared pain and this newfound friendship with this kind Dragonlord.
The village cherished these summer days getting to know Arthur’s old dragon buddies. They hung out with the villagers around the communal bonfire as everyone chattered into the night. During these visits, the mountains echoed with the sounds of joyous reunions and playful antics. Kilgharrah, with his flamboyant voice, regaled the village youngsters with tales of dragon legends, and despite his youth, already offering sagely life advice sprinkled with humor. So whilst Kilgharrah played the part of the wise young uncle, his chick brother Aithusa would join in village games with the village youth, his presence always a source of delight, especially for Merlin and Morgana.
Family meals were shared under the open sky, where the scent of roasted vegetables and freshly caught elk was mixed with the crisp mountain air. Arthur, ever the guardian, sat at the head of the gathering, his massive form casting a protective shadow over them all.
Lancelot, with his usual grace, passed plates of food to Gwen, who playfully nudged him with her elbow. “Careful, Lancelot, or you’ll drop the whole dish!” she teased, eyes twinkling with amusement.
Lancelot fumbled for just a moment before catching himself, flashing her a charming grin. “I’ve never dropped a dish in my life. Your teasing’s making me clumsy.”
Their self-assured ten-year-old son Gareth rolled his eyes at his parents’ playful banter. “You say that now, Father, but I saw you almost lose that plate.”
Gwen raised an eyebrow at her son, a teasing smirk forming. “Gareth, are you taking my side? What a surprise.”
Gareth grinned mischievously, his deep brown eyes glinting with humour. “I’ve got to keep Father humble somehow.”
Lancelot chuckled, ruffling Gareth’s wavy hair. “Humble, huh? You’ve already got enough cockiness for the both of us.”
Kilgharrah, overhearing the exchange, let out a low rumbling laugh from his seat. “Eh, Gareth, kiddo, you’ve got the makings of a fine leader. Just remember to keep that humility your father’s talking about.”
Gareth puffed up proudly, but then winked at his parents. “I’ll do my best, but no promises.”
As he turned his gaze, it softened when he spotted Rylan, who had been quietly watching the exchange from the other side of the fire. His best friend—his Rylan. The connection they shared ran deeper than words. Both boys had brown hair and eyes, though Gareth always thought there was something extra special about Rylan’s gaze—gentle and understanding, like he always knew what Gareth was thinking without him needing to say a word.
Rylan moved to sit closer, their shoulders brushing as they settled into the warmth of the afternoon sun. “You’ve been practicing that banter, huh?” Rylan asked with quiet affection.
Gareth shot him a playful look, but it softened instantly. “You know me too well, Ry.” His voice lowered slightly as he added, “But you also know I’d rather be here with you than showing off.”
Rylan grinned, heart fluttering at the closeness between them. “Good thing you don’t need to show off for me. You’re already the best. You’ll be the best man in the village one day, too.”
Their bond was unspoken, instinctive. Something in them just fit together, like they’d always been meant to be. Gareth leaned in, gently pressing his forehead affectionately against Rylan’s. “You know,” he murmured, “you give me far too much credit that I don’t deserve.”
Rylan chuckled softly, his warm eyes never leaving Gareth’s. “Oh, trust me, you deserve every bit of it. One day, everyone else will see it too.”
Gareth felt the weight of Rylan's words, the unwavering belief that always seemed to pour from his best friend, comforting him. “Sometimes I feel so much pressure to be like my dad,” Gareth whispered. “I just don’t think I can live up to him. He’s so noble, brave, strong… and then there’s me.”
Rylan’s heart ached for his friend. He squeezed Gareth’s hand a little tighter, pulling him closer. “Gareth, you’re more like him than you think,” he said softly. “You’re strong in your own way. Maybe not like Lancelot with a sword or fighting battles, but that’s because you’re still a kid! You’re always there for people, even when you’re scared. That’s brave.”
Gareth looked up at him, brow furrowed, but Rylan wasn’t done. “And you’re kind. You care about everyone—about me—in a way that not even your dad can match. That’s something special, something you shouldn’t forget.”
He rested his forehead against Gareth’s again, their closeness comforting. “You don’t have to be like him. You just have to be you. And trust me, Gareth, you are enough.”
For a moment, they sat in the quiet warmth of their shared space, the world around them fading into the background. In that moment, it didn’t matter if they hadn’t presented yet, or if their futures were uncertain. They had each other, and that was enough.
“Don’t forget, we’re in this together,” Rylan added, voice firm but tender. “We’ll figure everything out, one step at a time. You don’t have to be perfect right now.”
Gareth squeezed Rylan’s hand in return, a rare softness in his gaze. “You’re right. As long as I’ve got you, I’ll be okay.”
Rylan smiled softly, eyes meeting Gareth’s. “Always. I wouldn’t want anyone else by my side.”
Aithusa, smiling warmly, chimed in, “Being a leaduh needs more than bein’ brave, Gaweth. You gotta have a big heart. And I see you got lots of that.”
Gwen placed a hand on Gareth’s shoulder, squeezing gently. “You hear that, sweetheart? You’ve got everything you need to be great, just like your dad.”
Gareth’s grin softened at his mother’s words. “Thanks, Mom. I’ll try not to let it go to my head.”
“Told you,” Rylan whispered in his ear, wrapping both arms around his neck.
Freya, her dark eyes gleaming with joy, sat on a blanket spread out on the grass, her black hair cascading around her as she helped Lyra with her plate. “Here you go, sweetie. Try some of these roasted carrots. They’re extra delicious today.”
Lyra, her expression eager, took a bite and grinned. “They’re so good, Mother! I’m glad we came early. I want to make sure I get the biggest piece of elk!”
Will, sitting beside his omega, chuckled as he poured himself a mug of fresh cider. “Just don’t let old Kilgharrah hear that! You know him and Arthur will be fighting like two rams for the biggest morsel.”
Lyra puffed out her cheeks playfully. “Well, I’m growing, aren’t I? Besides, you always say I should eat well to stay strong.”
At that moment, Lyra's twin brother, Rylan, bounded over, his brown hair tousled and brown eyes sparkling with mischief. Following close behind, hand in hand, was Gareth, his curly hair equally unruly. As always, playful energy radiated from the boys.
“Did I hear something about elk?” Gareth asked with a grin, plopping down beside his friend. “I want the biggest piece too!”
Rylan rolled his eyes playfully as he sat down next to Gareth. “You can fight over the elk all you want,” he said with a smirk, reaching for a plate. “But I’m here for the pickled cucumber salad.”
Kilgharrah and Aithusa joined the family, lying down right next to them. Kilgharrah addressed Will. “Good afternoon. How’s everything going with the new harvest?”
Will smiled, nodding in appreciation. “The harvest is great this year, Kilg. Plenty of fresh produce for everyone. How about you? How’s the new hunting ground treating you?”
Aithusa addressed little Lyra. “Lywa, I see you be such a good little hewper now.”
Lyra looked up from her plate, her blue eyes sparkling with excitement. “Yes, now that I’ve reached double digits, I help out whenever I can! I’m learning so much from everyone.”
Rylan chimed in, crossing his arms proudly. “And I help too! I’m strong enough to carry the bigger baskets now!” His voice held a hint of determination, wanting to prove himself.
Freya reached over, ruffling both their hair affectionately. “You both have been such a big help indeed. We’re proud of how much you’ve grown.”
Kilgharrah’s eyes softened as he looked at Lyra, Rylan, and Gareth. “You’re all doing wonderfully. It’s clear you’ve got a lot of potential. Keep up the good work.”
Lyra beamed, clearly pleased by the praise. “Thank you, Kilg!”
Rylan grinned, nudging his sister playfully. “Yeah! And next time, I’ll beat you to the biggest piece of elk!”
Merlin sat quietly on a log, watching the scene unfold with a soft smile. Gwaine had been spinning another of his wild tales, and Merlin had looked away, laughing mirthfully. Arthur’s familiar, deep voice pulled him from his thoughts. "Do you remember, Merlin, when you first tried to fly with me?" Arthur teased. Merlin groaned in response, causing the others to laugh.
"Oh, how could I forget? You nearly dropped me in the lake!" Merlin shot back, though his tone was filled with affection. The memory of that day brought laughter all around.
Their younglings, full of energy, darted between the adults, laughter echoing through the valley. Elara, with her raven-black hair catching the sunlight, chased after her toddler brother Finnigan, who was already attempting his clumsy dragon pounces.
Mordred and Sefa sat together at the feast, their eyes following their chicks as Kaelin and Aurelia flew around and over the gathering. Mordred exchanged a fond smile with Sefa as they watched their rambunctious offspring play. His chicks were smaller, only the size of baby elephants.
Elara was on Auri's back, whilst tiny Finny stayed grounded, much too young to fly on a dragon. Finny only flew when he was in the arms of another adult, such as his daddy Merlin, Gwen, or Will. The hybrids would likely not be able to fly on their own until they were six or seven.
Kaelin was large for his age. He flew past the tables at breakneck speed, wings fluttering with excitement. Little Aurelia, smaller and more delicate in build, with dusky brown scales and large baby blues, trailed behind him, both her and Elara's giggles ringing through the air.
“You two, slow down before you knock something over,” Sefa called gently, smiling. "Especially you, Auri! Don't knock Elara off your back!"
Aurelia giggled. "I won't, Mama!" Then she glanced back at her passenger. "You 'kay, 'Lara?"
Elara giggled. "Uh-huh! Go go go! We gotta beat meanie Kaelin!"
Kaelin shot his mother a mischievous grin. “We’re dragons, Mama. We’re supposed to be fast!”
Mordred chuckled, shaking his head. “Fast doesn’t mean reckless, son. There’s a difference.”
Kaelin rolled his eyes playfully, but his pace slowed just enough to satisfy his father. “Fine, but only because you asked, Pops.”
Aurelia, always quick to mimic her older brother, fluttered her wings and flopped onto the ground next to the table. “I’m so tired from all this slowness,” she declared dramatically, looking up at her parents with wide, playful eyes.
Sefa laughed softly, reaching down with a tail tip to pat her daughter’s head. “Well, my little dragon, if you’re tired, you can sit and help me with the food.”
Aurelia pouted, but a teasing glint sparkled in her eyes. “Me an' 'Lara are only tired of sitting still.”
"Yeah!" Elara agreed cheerily, sliding off her friend to swing a delighted Finny around and around by his chubby arms.
Mordred reached over, flicking Aurelia affectionately. “You younglings are always full of energy,” he said with a grin.
Kaelin, not one to miss an opportunity for more fun, leaned over to his sister and whispered loudly, “Bet I can fly higher than you when we’re done eating.”
Aurelia’s eyes lit up, and she jumped to her feet, wings already stretching in anticipation. “No way! I’m faster!”
Mordred gave them both a mock-stern look. “Finish your food first. Then, we’ll see who’s really the fastest.”
Kaelin puffed up his chest proudly. “I’ll win. Just you wait.”
Kilgharrah and Aithusa’s visits starkly reminded Merlin of how little he knew about dragons. There was still so much to explore in Arthur’s world, so much he had yet to learn. Before Kilgharrah and his brother departed to the great sadness of the villagers who'd grown quite fond of both, the exceedingly wise dragon beckoned Merlin over with a wing. Merlin approached. “Kilgharrah? What is it?” he asked, tilting his head.
The dragon’s golden eyes gleamed with ancient knowledge, voice deep and resonant. “There is a prophecy, young warlock,” Kilgharrah began, his gaze unwavering. “One that speaks of the legendary bond between you and Arthur—your mate bond. It is foretold that through this sacred bond, Arthur's life shall be lengthened. His threads of fate shall intertwine with yours, Merlin, and endure as long as your own."
Merlin’s breath caught in his throat. “W-what? You mean... Arthur—he’ll be immortal?” His eyes were wide with both shock and wonder, emotions swirling in him like a whirlwind.
Kilgharrah nodded solemnly. “Not immortal in the truest sense, but your bond will grant him longevity—he will live as long as you do, sharing your life and your destiny.”
Merlin’s heart pounded in his chest, mind racing as happy tears began spilling over. “That’s… that’s incredible. I didn’t think anything like that was possible.” Since finding out about his immortality, he'd dreaded the day when his mate would pass and leave him to wander for eternity alone. Now, finding out that Arthur would be with him throughout all of time was truly the best news he could ever receive.
Kilgharrah’s expression softened. “Much is possible when magic and fate intertwine. This bond between you and Arthur is one of legend, forged by destiny itself.”
Merlin blinked, still trying to process what he was hearing. “Arthur will live as long as me,” he whispered, tearful voice tinged with awe.
“He will be by your side as you fight to save magick, one day far in the very distant future, when magick is prophesied to have slowly drained from this world. As Emrys, it is your destiny to ensure that never comes to pass.”
“How would I do that?” Merlin asked, bewildered.
Kilgharrah's eyes twinkled with a knowing glint as he answered, “The key you seek is not in strength or fame, but in the power of love—both humble and untamed. When magic wanes and darkness rises, you must seek the boy who lived through love's sacrifices.”
Merlin blinked, confused. “The boy who… what?”
Kilgharrah’s deep, rumbling laugh echoed through the mountain air, though there was an ancient wisdom behind his amusement. His great golden eyes locked onto Merlin, their depths swirling with untold knowledge.
“Ah, Merlin, you have always been impatient with prophecy. In time, you will understand. The boy who lived through love’s sacrifices shall be a beacon in the darkest of times. He will not seek power, nor glory, but will conquer through the bonds of friendship, loyalty, and love. It is through him that magic’s salvation will come. But he cannot do it without you, and you cannot do it without Arthur."
Merlin frowned, still trying to make sense of the cryptic words. “But how will I find him? And when?”
Kilgharrah's wings shifted slightly as he lowered his head toward Merlin, his voice softening but still carrying the weight of ages.
“When the world has nearly forgotten magic, and a great darkness threatens to swallow it whole, you will hear whispers of him—a child marked by both death and life. A symbol of hope, hidden among the ordinary. Seek him when the hour grows most dire, and know that in him, you will find not only the spark to rekindle magic but the heart to protect it.”
Merlin’s eyes widened, realisation slowly dawning. “I... I will have to wait a long time, won’t I?”
Kilgharrah nodded solemnly. “Patience, young warlock. For though your destiny is grand, it is but one thread in the vast tapestry of time. The boy you must seek is yet to be born, but when he arrives, he will change everything—not through force, but through love. You must be ready. And you must remember—love is the greatest magic of them all.”