Friends to Be Feared

Chapter 14: Dying

When I was a little girl I once visited the ocean. We stood on a towering cliff and watched the waves crash into the rocks. My parents let me run and play in the grass but no matter how much I begged they wouldn't let me near the edge. I kept trying to sneak past them but my mother always caught me. My father would laugh and pat my head, telling me I would have till I was a little older before I could get close.

He then picked me up and put me on his shoulders so I could see the rolling waves. I remember the fee of the sun on my face and the brisk wind bringing the oceans droplets.

That day, the ocean was calm.

Looking at Merlin's pale face I was anything but.

The dragon looked over me, waiting.

An image of Merlin's pained-filled scream and the all consuming darkness flashed across my mind. I could do this. I would do this.

"How?" The dragon didn't speak. I looked up at him. He seemed reluctant even though he was the one who suggested this.

"You said yourself that Merlin didn't have a lot of time." He sighed.

"Lay down next to him." I followed his instructions. "Take his hands and place your forehead on his. Now relax. Deep breaths. I will guide you." He paused.

"I must warn you, entering in a mind link is not a small matter." I was about to interrupt when he continued.

"You will not only have access to his conscience but his thoughts and memories as well. He is took weak to have up any sort of barrier. You will also have to beware the nothingness. You are now linked and if you are not careful it will take you as well and you will both perish." His voice was grave but I was getting impatient. Merlin didn't have time.

"I can handle it." I snapped.

"Very well." He breathed in. "Good Luck."

The feel of Merlin's cold hands in mine gave me the determination I needed. Looking at his face I felt like myself for the first time in I didn't know how long. A warm feeling spread through my chest despite the circumstances. I closed my eyes and was swept away into the darkness.

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The flames were flickering slowly, as if in mourning.

How could I have been so stupid?

When I entered my cluttered chambers however long ago I could do nothing but stare.

This is all my fault.

I always told Merlin that he would have a great destiny, that one day Arthur would understand. That one day he wouldn't have to hide or live in fear.

Oh my boy.

I was wrong, I was so wrong. I should have sent him away the first time he was almost exposed.

Tears pricked my eyes.

My sweet, sweet, boy.

When Gwen entered the room it was to the sobs of a father who lost his son.

The fire flickered again when Gwen sat on the neck next to me and wrapped her arm around my shoulder.

"Just like old times huh?" Her voice cracked.

Oh my son.

Authors Note: I updated! I am actually really excited to write the next part so that should get up soon. Also, my Mergana art was showcased at the Spring Fair and got a 2nd place ribbon!!! I hope you all enjoy! :~)