Aithusa

Spring came early this year, though the nights were still chilly. The moon spread its beams onto the clearing in the forest, giving comfort and hope to those who felt its magic. Merlin loved the night, especially when he was outdoors. There were no distractions and he was one with his surroundings, with his magic.

Tonight it was tempting to bring time to a standstill. To have many more heartbeats until sunrise, when his chores at the citadel awaited him. But Merlin didn't have the power to change time, and he should focus on what he had, and suck it all in. Let every occurrence pour into the fibres of his being, so he could remember it forever.

The moon's rays reached the trusting eyes of the young dragon. Aithusa gazed up at him with so much love, Merlin felt his heart burst into small pieces of utter bliss. This was how it should be, his life as a Dragon Lord, calling new dragons into the world. Thinking about how hostile the world actually was, made him wonder for a fleeting moment if he'd made the right choice. The thought evaporated when the newborn dragon hiccupped, and a tiny wisp of smoke left its beak.

Right there, Merlin made a vow to protect this magical creature, and even though he couldn't well take it into Camelot, he would provide it with a home and someone Aithusa could learn from. The one and only other dragon in the world, Kilgharrah. The little one had to leave with him, his kin. The thought made Merlin feel both excited and sad. He didn't want to say goodbye, not yet. He wanted to create an unbreakable bond with the white dragon, but there was no time.

Merlin felt a slight vibration in the air, a gust of wind pulling him out of his reverie. Aithusa started to flap her wings, a look of delight in her eyes. Not long and she would take flight, following Kilgharrah to the place where dragons rested. The first rays of sunshine were upon them when the new born lifted slowly into the air, a cry of joy leaving her. She was free, Aithusa, the light of the sun was finally free…