The Secret Kingdom

To Help the Once & Future King

Merlin grinned as he looked around the clearing at the gathered villagers and knights, all of them chanting. He felt as though he was finally doing something to fulfill his destiny. That they were finally moving forward. He took in Arthur's face as the young king's resolve seemed to come back.

In that moment, Merlin felt as though they could do just about anything, and that there was no way they could fail in retaking Camelot. This would be the time they finally overpowered Morgana once and for all. Then perhaps he could focus on finding a way to convince Arthur to finally allow the return of magic and those who practiced it to Camelot.

A shout sounded from somewhere towards the back of the gathering, drawing Merlin's attention. He could clearly hear the sound of thundering hooves. At first, Merlin grew nervous, worried that Morgana's troops had found them. But then there were cheers.

His mouth fell open as a large company of elves rode into the clearing, the silver and green banners of The Willows flying. Leading the company was none other than Elia herself, with Trevor and Elidren at her sides. They were all in full armor, as though they could ride into battle this very second.

Merlin's hope only grew, knowing the elves would be a boon on their side. Though he could not help but wonder just how they had known to be here. There had been no time to send word though he had no doubt that Arthur intended to do so before they launched any sort of attack on the castle.

Of course, it was then that Merlin recalled their gift of foresight. A trickle of nerves went through him as he glanced at Arthur, who stood at his side slightly gobsmacked, though he hid it well. He did not know of this and Merlin was curious as to how Elia intended to explain their arrival without it.

Elia hopped off her horse and strode to Arthur. Stopping just in front of him, she laid her right hand upon her heart and bowed.

"Heard you were in need of some help," she said as way of greeting, her green eyes twinkling.

"How did you know?" Arthur asked.

"That best explained in private," Elia said, glancing around. "All that matters right now is that we are here to lend aid. We have a debt to repay, after all."

"We could use the help," Arthur admitted, relief clear in his eyes.

Merlin was certain it was clear in the faces of all who were around them.

"We will gladly follow the Once and Future King into battle," she replied.

Both Merlin and Arthur looked from her to the large host of elves behind her. It was much bigger than the party they had used to rescue the elves. Granted retaking Camelot was a much bigger task.

"Come. There is much to discuss," he said, motioning for Elia to walk with him.

"Very well, King Arthur," Elia said.

The two leaders walked away while other elves quickly moved to set up camp, shouting out directions in their tongue. Elidren and Trevor followed just behind the two leaders with Fianna not far behind them. Merlin moved to quickly catch up with her.

"Did she see this?" Merlin asked the elf softly when he reached her side.

His eyes were fixed on Arthur and Elia, both deep in conversation, though he could not hear what was being said.

"Yes, but unfortunately, she saw it too late. It had already taken place and there was no time to warn you," she said softly.

"How did she know to come here?" Merlin asked.

"She saw this place too. What would happen here," Fianna replied. "And I believe she is about to tell your king."

Arthur suddenly stopped and frowned at the queen, though Elia remained calm as she gazed up at him. It was as though she expected this exact reaction from him.