Thanks so much for your nice reviews! They are very much appreciated! So hope you'll like the next chapter as well. It got a little long, so I had to split it into two :-) Hopefully, I'll upload the second bit tomorrow.
So here we go!
Chapter 2: The Wicked Day
At first, Merlin still felt awkward about reliving so much of his past again. So far, Morgause's death had not changed that much. There were still the occasional attacks by bandits and other kinds of minor threats to Camelot, especially since the news about Uther's breakdown began to spread throughout the Five Kingdoms. But there had been less attacks of magical sort and none of them posed any danger to Arthur's life. But with Uther unfit to rule his kingdom, Arthur had to step up. And though Merlin had tried his best to prevent it, he didn't manage to stop one of Arthur's greatest enemies to return: Agravaine. Merlin knew that he was probably the most dangerous threat to Arthur's safety after Morgause's death because, of course, Arthur didn't doubt his own uncle. He should know better by now after all that was there with Morgana, Merlin thought but he couldn't tell Arthur. All he could do was to be on high alert all the time. He contented himself with the fact that Morgana wouldn't be able to tear the veil apart and that she would – if ever – learn much later about Emrys. And of course, that all he cared for were still alive.
And then, there came the day he had dreaded ever since he had fully become aware of the consequences of his time travel. Would he be able to save him this time? And would he want to at all? The choice he would have to make quite soon was determining Camelot's – and thus, also his and Arthur's – fate.
Arthur's birthday was upon them.
The court yard was a hive of activity. A caravan of colourful carts was unloaded by acrobats, dancers, jugglers, strong men, and jesters. They had been hired especially for the celebrations. Yet, somehow neither Merlin nor Arthur seemed to be really in the mood for entertainment.
But still, they are watching as an acrobat was back flipping into her partner's arms and jugglers were practicing their routine, sending batons high into the air. Merlin was lost deep in his musings, so he didn't realise that Arthur was actually talking to him. Only when Arthur not quite lightly slapped the back of his head did he start from his thoughts.
"What's wrong with you, Merlin?" Arthur asked audibly annoyed.
"Sorry, I wasn't listening" Merlin admitted meekly.
Arthur frowned: "When are you ever?"
Merlin grimaced, but said nothing.
Arthur shook his head and looked at Merlin with a raised eyebrow: "Now go on, what's the matter with you? All of this should be exactly after your liking. Why are you not jumping around, all excited and in eager anticipation?"
"Well, it's your birthday. A huge feast is being held in your honour. You've got dancers, jugglers and acrobats to entertain you. And yet, you aren't jumping around either."
"Perhaps I'm less easily impressed than you."
"Yeah, that's it definitely" Merlin said sarcastically.
"After all, you still have the mind of a child."
Arthur headed off to the keep as Merlin mumbled to himself: "And yet I'm still more intelligent than you."
Without looking back, Arthur called out: "I heard that."
Despite his ill humour, Merlin had to smile. Their banter never failed to light him up. He heaved a sigh and returned to his chamber.
What am I supposed to do? Can I save Uther? I know what Morgana is up to and I am quite sure who will plant the amulet. But what if I save him? Uther will recover and who knows when Arthur will become king. Yet when he finally does, he will have a different attitude towards magic and that was the whole point of coming back, wasn't it?
Merlin thought this over and over again. Yet, he couldn't come to a satisfying conclusion. All of a sudden, Arthur came running in, all excited and beaming with joy.
"What's the matter?" he asked although he knew of course.
"My father is recovering! Can you believe it? After more than a year... He wants to join tonight's celebrations! He said that he wouldn't miss my birthday! Oh, this is fantastic! Everything will be alright now, Merlin! I can feel it!"
Not to crush Arthur's hopes, Merlin said nothing and forced a smile into his face.
The Banquet Hall was packed. Knights and courtiers were enjoying both a sumptuous feast and the entertainment. Arthur spent most of the evening relishing in Uther smiling. Their gaze met and Uther raised his goblet, a gesture which Arthur returned with a smile. Merlin could see how thrilled he was to see his father in such good spirits. In the midst of the performers stood the Gleeman. He bowed at the end of an act and all eyes focused on the Gleeman as a hush descended over the Hall.
"I require a volunteer..." he said increasing the tension.
Oh no. Are we at that part?
"Prince Arthur. What better or more fitting occasion for you to demonstrate your legendary bravery?"
Arthur looked quite shocked for a split second, Merlin registered amused.
"Do you accept the challenge?"
Bet on it. There is no challenge he wouldn't. And in the end, I am the one to save his royal backside... Merlin thought, mentally shaking his head reproachfully.
And sure Arthur said: "Of course."
A round of applause branded up as Arthur made his way through the Hall. He headed over to the circular board where the Gleeman waited for him, and smiled reassuringly at the crowd. The Gleeman and another man strapped Arthur's ankles and wrists to the restraints on the board whereupon Arthur shot a slightly nervous glance at The Gleeman.
Serves you right! Merlin smirked. Yet, he was not the only one to notice the Prince's unease.
"Do not fear, my Lord. I never miss my target", the Gleeman said winking at him.
"Good. Glad to hear it" Arthur tried to take it humorously.
The Gleeman then pulled out an apple and turned to Arthur and asked sheepishly: "May I?"
Before Arthur had a chance to object, the Gleeman had already placed the apple in Arthur's mouth. Merlin and many of the knights had to suppress a giggle. Then the other man gave the wheel a push and it started to spin. The Gleeman opened a case and held up a blade for the crowd to see. Without even stopping to take aim, the Gleeman suddenly turned and threw the knife at Arthur. It thudded into the board, centimetres from Arthur's face. A huge gasp went through the audience as Merlin's stomach wrenched, followed by a round of applause. As he span, Arthur eyed the knife warily. Uther, in contrast, was very impressed. Merlin exchanged a glance with Gwen. She had been holding in her breath and had hid her face behind her palms. She smiled at him and he smiled back encouragingly. But there was hardly time to relax as the Gleeman took the next knife from the case. The tension built up, and suddenly he threw the knife. It flew through the air and thudded into the board on the other side of Arthur's head. After another round of applause, the Gleeman took the last knife from the case. Uther applauded gleefully. The Gleeman waves the last knife at him. Uther happily nodded his permission for him to throw it. Gwen bit her nails and looked nervously toward Arthur and Merlin tensed as well, preparing to intervene magically if he had to. That time the noise of the impact of the blade sounded different and the crowd gasped and collectively held their breath. As the wheel slowed down to a stop, they saw that the blade was stuck straight into the apple in Arthur's mouth. And while the hall erupted with applause, both Gwen and Merlin let out a breath held in for too long. Maliciously Merlin noticed that Arthur as well heaved a sigh of relief. The Gleeman took a bow and Arthur is finally released from the wheel. He tossed the apple and caught it. On the way to his place, he passed Merlin and said complacently: "See, Merlin? Nothing to worry about." He laughed his warm laugh and took a bit of the apple. Despite himself, Merlin had to chuckle.
The celebration had last long. Maybe too long, Merlin mused as he watched Arthur stagger into his chambers. Arthur was very drowsy and unsteady on his feet.
"You're sure you're alright?" he asked slightly worried but also greatly amused.
"Of course I am. I am a warrior. You learn to control yourself..." Arthur said and promptly ran into a column. He would have fallen down, had Merlin not been there to catch him. He righted himself and continued in a – well almost – straight line towards his bed.
"Yeah, you've definitely learned to control yourself" Merlin mumbled almost inaudible.
While starting to undress, Arthur said happily: "It's good to see my father enjoying himself. He looked a little quiet towards the end, though. Perhaps I should go and see him."
That'll be a sight! Merlin thought suppressing a laugh: "Are you sure that's a good idea? You can barely stand up."
"Are you implying that I'm drunk?" Arthur asked in threatening tone.
"No, I'm just saying I don't think you should be wandering around the palace."
"And why is that?"
"You're not wearing any trousers."
Surprised, Arthur looked down and saw that he was indeed not wearing trousers, then looked back at Merlin: "Good point."
Then, he hitched up his trousers on his way out the door.
"I think I should come with you, just in case..." Merlin trailed off as he hurried to follow Arthur.
"Nay," Arthur slurred, "off to bed with you! I can perfectly manage on my own, thank you!" And off he staggered towards his father's chambers.
Sure. You can perfectly manage. I know how this will turn out... Merlin thought sceptically and disobeying, he followed him.
He's pretty fast for a drunk man, Merlin thought unbelievingly as he hurried after him. After a corner he was intercepted by the man who had helped to tie Arthur to the turning wheel.
"Ah, you're one of the royal servants, aren't you?" the man said.
"Yes, but at the moment, I am in a bit of a hurry, you know" Merlin tried to get rid of him as fast as possible. He had lost sight of Arthur what considering what was going to happen later today was probably not a good idea.
"Oh, I don't think, you need to hurry. You'll be too late anyway" the man replied merciless.
Before Merlin could ask the meaning of this, the man had lifted his hand and uttered a spell which sent Merlin flying to the wall. He hit hard but fear made him fast. He was back on his feet in no time requiting the man with a spell of his own. His spell, however, was more powerful as it knocked the man out completely. Without any further hesitation, Merlin rushed up to Uther's chambers, fearing for the worst. At last, he arrived at the door only to find two of the guards knocked unconscious. Horrified, he hurried to open the door. But it was locked, probably magically. Then, Merlin was through the spell that barricaded the door. He almost fell through the opening door. And what he saw made him shiver with dismay.
"Goodbye, Arthur Pendragon." The Gleeman raised his sword, ready to strike. Arthur was powerless.
I am too late! This time he's going to kill Arthur!
Before Merlin could use his magic, the Gleeman struck. Yet, the blow was blocked by a sword. Uther was standing there, Arthur's sword in his hand.
"It will take more than a coward like you to kill my son!" Uther shouted.
The Gleeman turned on him and struck. Uther blocked the blow. They traded a series of ferocious blows with both Merlin and Arthur watching anxiously. The fight continued. Merlin shivered several times as Uther only narrowly avoids being killed.
"Have you anything to say to your son before I kill him?"
Merlin finally made up his mind. He couldn't allow this to continue no matter what the consequences. Yet, this time, his magic failed him.
Know that each of the changes you make has a consequence. Each of your choices alters the future. Yet, you will not be able to save everyone. Heed our words, Emrys! He heard the voice of the Goddess resounding in his memory. Powerless, Merlin watched Arthur who was helplessly kneeling on the floor, no doubt put out of action by some sedative. Yet, Uther didn't give up. He attacked with a new ferocity, taking the Gleeman by surprise. He rained blow after blow down on him, forcing him back. Finally, the Gleeman's sword was knocked from his hand.
Both Merlin and Arthur heave a sigh of relief as Uther delivered a final, fatal blow. But all of a sudden, he looked weak and confused and his legs buckled.
"Father?" Arthur asked worried, realising something was very wrong. He caught Uther as he sank to the floor by the bed. Horrified, he saw blood staining Uther's robes. Apparently, the Gleeman had been able to stab him before Uther had killed him. Both Arthur and Uther had to fight to stay conscious.
"No... Guards!... I'll go get help..."
Desperately, he tried to get up to his feet, but Uther grabbed his arm, saying weakly: "Stay with me..."
Arthur was looking around, finally seeing Merlin who nodded and turned to get help.
"I'm here, Father... Merlin is getting help" he could hear Arthur trying to calm both himself and his father. Around the next corner, Merlin bumped into a guard whom he sent to fetch Gaius. Then he returned to Uther's chamber. As he entered, Arthur's face lit hopefully.
"Gaius's on his way" Merlin answered his inquisitive look.
"Do you hear that, Father? Gaius is coming and he will save you, I promise" Arthur said fighting back the tears that had been building up behind his eyes.
"No, he won't. Nobody can. It is my time..." Uther's voice was getting feebler by the minute.
"No... You can't die..."
"I know you will make me proud, as you always have. You will be a great King..."
"I'm not ready..."
"You- you've been ready for some time, Arthur..."
"No. I need you..."
"I know I've not been a...a good father. I put my duty to Camelot first. I'm sorry."
That was too much for Arthur, his tears came streaming down his face as his father griped his hand with all remaining strength.
"But know this one thing. I always loved you..."
With these words, Uther's eyes slowly closed as he lost consciousness. Arthur looked horrified at his father.
"No... Father... Father!"
Yet, the sedative took its effect and Arthur was barely able to focus. Vaguely, he saw a shadow rushing past him, trying to pull his father from his arms and then he too fell unconscious.
Gaius was tending to Uther who was still unconscious and very weak. Arthur and Gwen sat close by; Merlin stood near the door, all of them looking deeply concerned. Arthur fixed Gaius with a desperate and pleading look.
"Gaius. Can you treat him?" he asked with only insufficiently concealed fear in his voice.
"The blade has touched his heart. He's bleeding inside."
"There must be something... there must be something you can do. Please, Gaius."
Gaius shook his head: "It is just a matter of time, I'm afraid. I'm sorry, Arthur."
Arthur stared at his father, struggling to accept that he was going to die.
"Arthur?" Merlin said carefully.
"Hmm?" he answered distractedly.
"The council is waiting for you."
"Yes, I suppose I have to go." Reluctantly, he stood up.
"We will stay with him" Gwen said compassionately touching his hand.
Swallowing, he just nodded and left.
"It is going to hurt him very deeply" Gwen mused.
Some time later, Merlin entered the council room. Sir Leon and Agravaine were reporting to Arthur, who just stared blankly, traumatised into the distance.
Agravaine was speaking as he came in: "... to the town of Wenham. It's in Odin's land. It seems he hired him to kill you to avenge the death of his son."
Arthur just sat there apathetically. Placing a comforting hand on his shoulder, his uncle continued: "Everyone's thoughts are with you, Arthur. But, er, if there's anything I can do..."
"Your support means a great deal to me. Thank you" Arthur replied meekly. As he noticed Merlin, he signalled them to leave and jumped up so quickly that his chair tipped over.
"What news of my father?" he asked hopefully.
But Merlin shook his head: "There is no change."
Slamming his fist against one of the pillars, Arthur snapped at him: "Well, why isn't Gaius doing something, then?"
"Because there is nothing he can do. The wound is too deep."
"I know" Arthur admitted, his grief apparent in his bright blue eyes.
Merlin looked at him and felt great sympathy for his friend. Yet, he could not offer any consolation because he knew that he wasn't supposed to change anything this time. All he could offer was his friendship and company to help him through these difficult days to come though they didn't talk about that. They didn't have to because they both knew already. Together they went up to Uther's chambers. Arthur took up his seat beside his father's bed while Merlin stood at the window. From there, he saw a hooded figure whom he identified as Agravaine leaving the castle for the forest.
So Morgana will soon know, he sighed.
Then Gwen entered in order to change the dressing of the wound. As she approached, Arthur looked up and forced a smile: "I appreciate your kindness, everything you're doing for him."
"I do it for you" she replied seriously.
That was too much for Arthur. He turns away from both Gwen and Merlin to hide his tears. Merlin could see in Gwen's face how much it pained her to see him hurt like this. She walked over to him and ran her hand gently across his back. He looked up at her, taking her hand into his.
"I can't watch him die...There's still so much I want to say to him... He cannot die."
With these words, he fled the room, closely followed by Merlin and leaving behind a deeply concerned Gwen.