Lord of the Druids

Merlin couldn't explain why, but he felt compelled to reach out to the Princess after her departure. He saw the pain and humiliation in her eyes, and wanted to do what he could to alleviate some of it. He sat down at his small desk one night and wrote to her.

Princess Mithian,

I hope this letter finds you well. I am sorry your trip to Camelot did not have the ending you anticipated. King Arthur was trying to act with his head and hoped it would cancel out what he felt in his heart. I still believe an alliance between our kingdoms would be a tremendously beneficial arrangement for all involved. I do hope you do not hold ill will towards us. I am happy to allay any concerns you might have moving forward, my lady. As you once said, Arthur values my opinion. In most cases anyway. I do hope we can meet again one day.

With kindest regards,

Merlin

***

Merlin hadn't told Arthur what he was doing, knowing the King would argue against it. The day after he sent it, Morgana and Agravaine had taken the citadel. Merlin didn't even know if the message made it to Nemeth or not. He hoped one day he would find out. For now, his priority was to protect the King and get him to safety until he could retake his throne.

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Dear Merlin,

I must admit I was most surprised to receive your letter. Leaving Camelot, on the terms I did, was not pleasant. I hadn't expected to enjoy King Arthur's company, but I did. He was easy to grow fond of. Though I expect some of that loveable personality was formed by you. I met him once, when we were much younger, though I'm not sure he remembers. He was quite prideful. Nothing like the King he is now. The boy I met would never have admitted to any feelings let alone conceded an ancient land dispute due to said pride. It shows great humility and growth. I am not opposed to future alliances, but it will take time. My father was quite upset when I returned home. Can you give me any reasons that I should look to honor future agreements with the King of Camelot? If he backed out of one potentially strong alliance, would he not do so again?

I shall await your reply before going to my father in regards to treating with Camelot in the future.

Princess Mithian

***

Merlin received the letter from the Princess a few weeks after they had retaken Camelot. He quickly composed his reply with a copy of the proposed agreement eager to hear her thoughts.

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Princess Mithian,

Please forgive my delay in responding. Camelot has been through some turmoil, if you've not heard already. Morgana aligned herself with the Southrons and with the aid of Lord Agravaine, took the palace and throne for herself. Her magic was powerful, but we were able to overcome her and retake the citadel. The King has been reunited with his former love, and they made amends. They will be wed by the time this reaches you. I hope it does not distress you. I thought they may wait longer, another year. But they did not want to be parted. I was hoping you might come.

Sorry if that seems forward.

I know that the new Queen would like to have more allies. There are some trade routes that I think would benefit both our kingdoms. Our crops have done well, and I know that a trade for the metal you mine in Nemeth could be worked out. Along with this letter is a rough draft of a trade agreement. Please take your time and let me know what changes you might suggest and I will present it to the royals.