Captive Soul
The Black Cauldron/Angst/Action
Author's Note-This part of the story leads off from near the end of the Black Cauldron, when Morgrant captures the gang and tries to force Taran to be his War Leader. This will be a rather dark fanfiction, and at times it may border mature. It is very likely that it will take me around a month or two to update, so please be patient. Thank you.
Morgrant felt his lips curl up in a satisfied and predatory smile as he gazed down on his captives. The princess met his eyes, defiance written all over her pretty little face. Such spirit. A pity she was no use to him. The bard, the pathetic prince, and the creature, Gurgi, were slumped in their bonds. They would not last the night if left in their condition.
His gaze fell last to a young man. Taran.
"Decide." His said, staring into the startling emerald eyes. He watched in satisfaction as he glimpsed the agony of the noble spirit behind those beautiful eyes. At last, the proudly defiant gaze dropped, and the youth replied in a strangled whisper.
"What did you say?" He said, enjoying the cruel game.
"I…accept."
"No, Taran!" The princess cried. Struggling futilely against her bonds, she tried calling out to him again, but at a quick motion of his hands, his guards efficiently silenced her with a bruising slap to her face.
"Silence." Morgrant said gruffly. "Now swear to me, Taran. Swear by all you hold dear."
Taran was still quivering in helpless outrage at the blow directed to the princess. "You promised me you wouldn't hurt them-" He cried angrily.
"I said silence!" Morgrant hissed. "If you value their lives, swear your allegiance to me, or else they will be hurt far more grievously than these blows."
The youth stiffened his neck, but slumped in defeat. "I swear, by all I hold dear, that I will be your War Leader and answer to you…"
"And?" Morgrant prodded.
The golden head dipped even lower.
"…My Lord."