Shanea Forbidden Forest, 1509
Rhaenys then says, "Wow, I can't believe your mom knew my mom!"
Rynlyf's eyes widened in surprise as he listened to Rhaenys. "I agree with you on that one," he replied, a hint of excitement in his voice.
"It feels like I'm learning something new about my mom every day," she added, her voice tinged with curiosity.
Rynlyf nodded, understanding the depth of Rhaenys's sentiment.
Rynlyf then suggested to Rhaenys that they should go to his home so she could get some rest. "You seem a bit tired after our adventures in the Forbidden Forest," he noted, concern lacing his voice.
Rhaenys smiled appreciatively, grateful for his thoughtfulness. "That sounds great, actually," she replied, feeling a sense of comfort in his offer.
As they began to walk, Rynlyf glanced at her, his excitement from their earlier conversation still evident.
Suddenly, Rhaenys's magic flared to life again, sending a shimmering wave of energy through the air. A warm glow enveloped her, momentarily surprising Rynlyf and causing him to halt. "What just happened?" he asked, eyes wide with wonder.
Rhaenys laughed softly, feeling the familiar rush of power coursing through her. "I think my magic is just a little excited," she said, trying to reassure him.
Rynlyf's concern quickly turned to curiosity. "It's beautiful," he remarked, watching as the light danced around her.
Rhaenys felt a swell of pride and confidence, realizing that her magic was a part of who she was. "Thank you," she replied, her heart warming at his admiration.
As they continued on their path, Rynlyf suggested, "Maybe we should find a quiet place where you can practice more. It seems like your magic has a mind of its own.
Rhaenys then smiled, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "That sounds like a good plan to me," she said, feeling the thrill of the idea. "I'd love to find a place where I can really let my magic flow." The thought of practicing in a serene setting filled her with anticipation.
As they walked, she imagined the possibilities, eager to explore the depths of her abilities.
**************************************************************
Pendragon Castle, Merlin's Bed Chambers, 1509
From Merlin's chambers, he sensed Rhaenys's magic emanating from the Forbidden Forest. The air grew thick with energy, a palpable reminder of her potent abilities. He could feel the pull of her enchantments, vibrant and alive, as if the forest itself was responding to her presence.
That's when he realized that she had returned to this dimension in a serene setting filled with anticipation.
Merlin then said out loud, "So, you have finally returned, my beautiful niece."
Merlin then said out loud again, "So my dear sister, you couldn't keep your daughter in the other dimension like you wanted to."
Just as he finished speaking, a soft knock echoed from the door of Merlin's chamber. He paused, his heart racing with a mix of excitement and curiosity. Rhaenys's magic, which he had sensed just moments earlier, continued to charge the air.
"Enter," he called, his voice steady despite the whirlwind of emotions within him.
Then a knight entered Merlin's chamber, his armor glinting in the dim light. The knight seemed to carry an aura of determination, and his presence commanded attention.
Merlin turned to face him, his skepticism increasing. "What brings you here, Sir Tyler?" he asked, trying to mask the tumult of thoughts swirling in his mind.
"Merlin," Sir Tyler said, his tone firm but respectful. "Arthur is requesting your presence in the Great Hall."
Merlin raised an eyebrow, his fascination increasing. "The Great Hall? At this hour?"
"Yes," replied Sir Tyler, stepping closer. "There is a matter of extreme importance that requires your counsel. The king believes your insight could be crucial."
Merlin then asked Sir Tyler, "Did the king say what he wants me for?"
Sir Tyler shook his head. "No, the king did not say what it was about."
Merlin nodded slowly. "Very well."
With that, both Merlin and Sir Tyler left the chamber and made their way to the Great Hall.
**************************************************************
Pendragon Castle, Great Hall, 1509
Mahfiruze turned to her husband, Arthur, her brow furrowed with concern. She whispered, "Arthur, do you think these rumors are true?"
Arthur looked at his wife, Mahfiruze, with a mixture of worry and determination in his eyes. "Honestly, my love, I have no idea if the rumors are true," he replied softly.
"But we must remain vigilant," he continued, his voice steady. "If there is any truth to them, we need to be prepared." Mahfiruze nodded, though her heart was heavy with uncertainty.
Just then, the doors of the Great Hall swung open, and Merlin and Sir Tyler entered, their expressions serious. Arthur straightened, ready to hear what they had discovered.
King Arthur smiled warmly at Merlin as he approached. "Welcome, my old friend," he said, his voice filled with gratitude. "Thank you for coming so quickly. Your presence is always a comfort in these troubling times."
Merlin bowed deeply before Queen Mahfiruze, acknowledging her presence with respect. He then turned his attention to King Arthur. "Of course, your majesty," he replied, his tone steady as he prepared to share the weight of his revelations.
As the atmosphere in the room shifted, the heavy doors creaked open, and Dowager Queen Igraine Pendragon entered with an air of regal grace. Her black hair, adorned with a delicate circlet, framed her wise and weathered face. The flickering candlelight cast gentle shadows, highlighting the deep lines that told the story of a life filled with both joy and sorrow.
King Arthur turned to greet his mother, a mixture of pride and affection swelling in his chest. "Mother," he said, his voice softening. "It is good to see you."
Igraine smiled warmly, her eyes sparkling with love. "It is good to see you too, my sweet boy," she replied, her voice a soothing melody that wrapped around Arthur like a comforting embrace.
Queen Mahfiruze then stepped forward, her regal presence commanding attention. With a graceful bow, she addressed Queen Mother Igraine, her voice smooth and respectful. "Your Majesty, it is an honor to see you again," she said, her eyes reflecting both admiration and warmth.
Igraine turned her gaze towards Mahfiruze, a welcoming smile gracing her lips. "And you as well, Queen Mahfiruze."
The two queens exchanged pleasantries, their mutual respect evident in their demeanor, as King Arthur looked on with pride, appreciating the bond being formed between the two remarkable women in his life.
Merlin then says, "I believe there's something that you wanted to discuss, Arthur."
Arthur nodded, his expression turning serious. "Yes, Merlin," he replied, "have you heard a rumor about a lost princess of Camelot?"
Merlin then said, "Yes, I have, Your Majesty."
Arthur then asked, "Is it true what people are saying, Merlin?"