Merlin: the secret prince

meeting the dragons

The knights of Camelot and the Pendragon family stood at the foot of the towering mountain range, their gazes drawn upward as if the peaks themselves held some ancient secret. The mountains stretched endlessly, jagged and majestic, their snow-capped summits glinting under the fading light of dusk. The air was crisp and carried the scent of pine and damp earth—a sharp contrast to the familiar warmth of Camelot's stone walls and bustling streets. For many, this was the first time seeing such raw, untouched beauty, and a hush fell over the group as awe and reverence settled in their hearts.

Percival's voice broke the silence, quiet but filled with heartfelt emotion. "It's good to be home."

Merlin's eyes softened with a gentle smile as he nodded. "It truly is, Percy. Men, Morgana, Gwen... I know you're all accustomed to the splendor of Camelot's grand halls and polished courtyards, but the wonders hidden inside these mountains will surpass even that. The craftsmanship—the architecture carved from living rock—is unlike anything you've ever witnessed. The halls shimmer with magic and history. You'll be awestruck."

Noah's restless energy bubbled over as he tugged at Merlin's sleeve and then darted ahead, his boots pounding on the rocky path. "Come on, Merls! I want everyone to see the Dragon Den before we meet Mother—our sister, the future queen—and the council who stand with us. You don't want to miss this."

Merlin chuckled and quickly spurred his horse into a gallop, the sudden burst of speed catching Noah off guard. The rest of the knights quickly followed, their mounts' hooves kicking up dust and loose stones as they raced toward the mountain's entrance. Even Morgana, though already familiar with dragons, felt a thrill of excitement pulse through her veins—the promise of seeing these legendary creatures up close never grew old.

Soon, they reached the enormous cavernous gateway carved directly into the mountain's side, a colossal archway framed with ancient runes glowing faintly in the dimming light.

Noah's voice dropped to a serious tone. "When we enter, stable hands will take your horses. We keep Camelot's horses separate from those of Deria for safety and tradition. And listen carefully—when you go to the Dragon Den, be extremely cautious. The dragons are proud and not used to so many visitors, especially strangers from other lands. Respect their space."

The knights exchanged solemn nods, understanding the gravity of the warning. Noah pushed open the heavy iron gate, which groaned in protest before revealing a dimly lit stable area where a few hands awaited. They greeted the party with quiet bows. After handing over their horses, the group began the steep, winding ascent toward the heart of the mountain, the sound of their footsteps echoing off the stone walls.

Inside the cavern, the temperature rose slightly, warmed by the dragons' presence and the faint glow of magical embers embedded in the walls. Merlin's voice rang out, calling into the vast, shadowed chamber. "Athusia! Are you here, girl?"

A graceful shadow soared down from a ledge high above, wings beating silently as the dragon landed softly in front of Merlin. Her scales shimmered like liquid sapphire, catching the light and scattering it in brilliant flashes. "Merlin!"

Her voice was melodious and filled with warmth, a sound both ancient and comforting. Merlin stepped closer, his gaze softening. "It's been too long. Have you been well?"

"I'm well, Sire," Athusia replied, her eyes reflecting centuries of wisdom and fierce loyalty. "And you?"

"I'm better for seeing you again," Merlin teased, a playful glint in his eye. "Though I still remind you, no need for all those formal titles."

Athusia let out a low, amused rumble. "Some habits die hard, even after a decade apart."

"We grew up together," Merlin argued fondly.

Athusia's tone softened. "Your father insisted on respect. He wanted us dragons to honor you."

Merlin grumbled good-naturedly, but before he could retort, Mordred stepped forward, curiosity written on his face. "Merlin, are you going to introduce us to the dragon?"

Merlin turned to the group, his voice proud yet warm. "This is Athusia. Our father hatched her alongside Noah's dragon the very day we were born. We grew up side by side."

Arthur approached cautiously. "Hello, Athusia."

"The pleasure is mine, King Arthur," Athusia replied, bowing her great head in respect.

Arthur's brow furrowed in curiosity. "How do you know of me?"

"I know of all of you, Arthur," Athusia said, her voice steady.

Noah leaned forward. "How is that?"

"I spoke with Kilgharrah recently," Athusia explained, her eyes glinting.

"The great dragon?" Morgana asked, a note of reverence in her voice.

"Yes, my lady. The ancient Kilgharrah."

Leon's voice cracked in disbelief. "I thought he died!"

Merlin's expression darkened. "No, I spared him. When Kilgharrah struck down our knights during your mission, I told him to leave. I couldn't let him die—he was a friend to Father."

Athusia nodded solemnly. "He's well and speaks of coming to aid us in the war."

Merlin exhaled slowly, relief and hope mingling in his voice. "Thank you, Athusia. I'll see you again before the war so we can train."

As Merlin led the company out of the den, the cool mountain air enveloped them once more. Arthur turned to Noah. "Noah, where will we be staying?"

"We've arranged chambers for everyone," Noah explained. "Princess Morgana and Merlin each have their own rooms, carefully prepared. Percival will stay with our closest knights. Queen Gwen and you will share a suite. The rest will double up."

Merlin's eyes lingered on the path ahead, memories flickering like ghosts. "Are my chambers the same as when we were younger?"

Noah nodded without a word.

Leon stepped forward politely. "Would you lead us to our chambers, please?"

Arthur interjected gently. "Before that, I'd like to see Merlin's chambers."

Merlin smiled softly and nodded, leading the group through the winding, torch-lit corridors carved from solid rock, each step echoing softly. The path was lined with ancient tapestries and carvings depicting the history of the Pendragon family and their bond with the dragons—symbols of a legacy as enduring as the mountains themselves.