Snapshots Going Home Ch 5
Merlin sighed, resigned to letting his manservant fuss with making sure his clothes sat just right, deliberately ignoring Gwen's giggle.
"How did you ever adjust to this?" he complained to her as Ian forced his arms up to be held out the sides yet again.
"If you'd actually eat, Merlin, then Ian wouldn't have to spend so much time adjusting your clothes. I made that outfit to be snug, show off your figure," Gwen answered with a sniff, moving to sit in a chair in their chambers.
"I do nothing but eat!" Merlin argued. "If Ian isn't constantly shoving food at me, then you and Arthur are! I think Ian just enjoys making me stand like a dress up doll!"
Ian snorted around the sewing needle in his mouth. He took it out to make another stitch. "If his Highness would actually eat more than a few bites of what we shove at him, he wouldn't wear it off quicker than he takes it in," he growled as he concentrated on his task. Merlin blushed as he was entirely sure his servant wasn't just talking about his training.
Gwen smiled. She should have had this done yesterday, really. It had been months since Merlin wore the all white outfit she'd made him, and despite their introduction this afternoon, she hadn't thought to have him try it on before this morning.
"Are you nervous?" Merlin asked gently. She was always especially keen to fuss over him when she was.
"A little," she admitted. "Maybe a lot. I haven't felt like this since before I married Lance, and I was never able to be introduced to his parents. Even knowing his brother's aren't here, meeting Durstan's family is intimidating."
"It's impossible not to love you, Gwen," Merlin reassured kindly, smiling at her. "And you look stunning. Camelot's rose," he said proudly, taking up the nickname the Dumnonian soldiers had given her, "will be the brightest beauty in the room."
Gwen snorted, never comfortable with the moniker. She was Queen Regent now, but she had grown up a blacksmith's daughter. "As long as they don't discover it has thorns."
Merlin laughed, finally able to put his arms down as Ian stepped back to inspect him. "I think they respect the thorns more than the beauty," he pointed out. "A peaceful religion with a warrior culture- they're an interesting mix."
"No, Ian," Gwen stopped him, pointing at another pair of boots. "With the buckles, in the Dumnonian style. They'll go better with his thigh sheaths- use the black leather. They'll stand out against the white."
"You're as guilty as he is," Merlin grumbled. "How is it Arthur gets away with just his armor?"
"If you wore armor, Merlin, you'd be allowed the same," Gwen pointed out. "As it is, we'll have to make do with your vambraces instead of your cuffs. I really do wish you'd let me design nicer ones."
"I like mine just fine," Merlin insisted, casting an appreciative glance at his manservant. "At least something about me remains simple." Leon had presented them to him, and it had been Durstan who had them hastily made the evening before he faced Arthur, but it had been Ian who had designed them. "As it is, you've turned my daggers into a fashion accessory!"
He had several different pairs of sheaths now of varying colors and design. Thankfully, no one dared touch the daggers themselves. He'd taken to wearing them daily since the challenge, giving him time to get used to the added weight on his legs. Ian had suggested it, and he'd discovered in practice how much quicker he was than when he wore them only occasionally.
He'd admit he felt safer with them, too. His magic had been either denied to him, or too unstable, recently and the daggers made him feel less defenseless. He thought Ian suspected as much, as they were always included with his daily clothes, but it wasn't anything he'd ever admitted out loud.
Gwen didn't even have the decency to look embarrassed about it as she shrugged. She found a certain pleasure in dressing Merlin, though she couldn't explain why. Likely it was connected to her own struggle at the beginning to be seen as more than merely a servant herself. Or, perhaps it was because properly dressed, he was a beautiful canvas to work with.
There was a knock at the door then, and Durstan swept in without waiting for an answer- something he only did when he knew Arthur was elsewhere.
The Prince took in Gwen's dark red gown, and the delicate silver vine circlet she wore with a dangling sapphire. Her drop earrings framed her face beautifully, and were just long enough to add to her already graceful throat.
"Ah, My Lady, you will put every member of court to shame for your radiance," Durstan breathed, putting a hand to his heart as he spoke, leaning down to give her a peck on the cheek.
Merlin smiled softly. Durstan had never been anything but a gentleman to her, very cautious of her reputation. The mischievously mirthful man would likely change his ways once they were properly married, but he knew for now it was a show of respect for her, and he liked that about the Prince.
He arched an eyebrow at Gwen. "See?"
"And you, my Brother, will break every heart. You are to be commended, my dear," he bowed a little to Gwen. "He is stunning." His eyes glinted at her, and she nodded, appreciating the compliment to not only her taste and skills, but also to her diplomatic sensitivity. When Arthur had refused the presentation to be in Dumnonian royal colors, she had conspired with Ian, delighted to know the all white outfit with the silver dragons and the marbled winter owl feather cloak had been in his belongings. As the outfit was made primarily with the materials gifted originally as part of the peace treaty with Camelot, it still honored the Kingdom he was being adopted into. Arthur didn't take notice of such things.
"Er, thank you?" Merlin hesitated. Durstan's constant reference to him as brother always threw him off, and he never did well with compliments. He wasn't used to them- short of Arthur's tendency toward them in the bed chambers- and they made him nervous.
"Ah. And there is why I've come. I feel I must say something, but I'm worried it… well, it may bring about unpleasant memories," the Prince hesitated.
"Durstan," Gwen warned, reaching out a hand to stop her betrothed, instinctively moving to protect her friend. Even Ian had tensed, subtly changing his stance where he stood just in front of the warlock, as though determined to defend him.
This is the scene Arthur walked in on, and he frowned at the feeling in the air. "What's going on?" he asked hesitantly. It took only seconds for him to understand that Gwen and Ian were in protective mode over his Consort.
"It's alright," Merlin said calmly, appreciating but knowing Durstan wouldn't have brought it up if it hadn't been important. "Say what you need to Durstan, and speak plainly." He nodded at Gwen, and laid a reassuring hand on Ian's shoulder, smiling. "I'll be fine."
Arthur's frown deepened as he moved to stand next to his lover. "Merlin?" he questioned.
The Prince nodded, keeping eye contact with Merlin as he spoke. "From the very first day, it's clear you've… tolerated… the trappings the Victim's Rights bestowed upon you. To explain it more easily, consider it like a purchase."
"Durstan," Arthur growled in warning, feeling his lover tense beside him. Only two days after Merlin's flashback, the comparison of being a purchase was far too close to the word 'whore' Merlin had learned to fear at the hands of his Uncle and others. Arthur himself had done a considerable amount of damage toward that, and because of that was almost as bad as Gwaine for shielding his lover from it. He sincerely liked the Prince, but there were some limits he wasn't ready to push for him.
"I'm sorry, Arthur, but he needs to understand this," Durstan pushed on, unaware of the byplay happening in front of him. "Bursus failed to kill you. That cost him everything, which he knew that it might before attempting it. The consequences are as old as the roots of our Kingdom. By surviving, you paid the price…"
"Enough!" Arthur commanded harshly, stepping forward aggressively. "That's enough, Durstan," he repeated when the Prince opened his mouth to protest.
"Arthur, ease off. He doesn't know." Merlin smiled at him, meeting his eyes, nodding despite the fact that his hands held a tremor. "Durstan, I sincerely apologize if I've offended you. I never meant to. I want you to know I'm not naive to the honor you've given me, nor would I be lying in saying I have a sincere fondness for you."
Durstan clasped his hands together, taking a step forward. "Brother, I have grown to love you, in truth, and please know I don't mean to cause you pain. What I'm trying to describe is that our Victim Rights is the only solution for such an insult, for such a great debt, a debt that rides bloodlines for generations. There is a reason it's so rare for the Royal Family to undertake such a crime. I know you don't see it, but you are an Elder Prince of Dumnonia, you are my Brother, and you are my mother's son. It is no mere thing of courtesy designed to appease, but a wrong made right on a deeply spiritual and cultural level. You, Brother, are blood, though we don't share a drop. All the more so for your lack of choice in the matter."
Arthur moved, stepping up beside his lover, his back facing the Prince, and put a hand on his shoulder while he whispered something to the younger man.
Merlin nodded slowly. "I think I understand. I can't treat it like an adoption. Everyone else will treat it as if I'd been born to it, and I need to, as well." He cocked his ear, listening as Arthur whispered again. "The how of it all is taboo, it never happened. And I need to present myself as though this has always been my life."
"Yes!" Durstan agreed with a laugh, and a rush of relief. "When you are before the Queen, you will embrace her as Mother, then kneel to her. As my sister is the only family here at present, you must greet her as sister, me as Brother, then she and I will both kneel to you. It would be ill thought of if you looked uncomfortable. It is not an introduction so much as a welcome home."
"And my title as Emrys?" Merlin asked quietly.
Durstan glanced at Arthur, who had turned around again and was now standing just behind Merlin's shoulder, keeping very careful eyes on the Prince. "It has been made clear that this is an affair of State, not religion. Once you have taken your place behind our mother, Arthur and Gwen will be introduced to the Royal Family present."
"Which, includes me."
"Yes."
Merlin took a deep breath, nodding. "What were you coming for, Arthur?" he asked.
"A word alone, in the sitting room, if you would?" Arthur asked curtly, grabbing the younger man's arm and moving him to the other room, pleased when Gwen stepped in to distract the Prince.
As soon as they were out of earshot, Arthur leaned in, cradling his lovers' face even as he brushed his lips. "Are you alright?" he whispered.
"I'm fine, Arthur," Merlin reassured him. "Please don't go back to treating me like I'm fragile. I can take almost anything else, but not that."
Arthur nodded, understanding. "You look amazing, by the way," Arthur grinned, leaning in for a more possessive kiss, this one definitely lustful in its intent.
Merlin blushed. "Gwen insisted. I was afraid… we were not in a good place last I wore it."
"Unless you've got another Crystal hanging under that tunic, I'm prepared to look beyond the past, and appreciate the very fine things it does to your legs, and your hips, and your…" he let his hands trail each part as he spoke of, moving them to his buttocks when he trailed off, giving them a firm squeeze.
Merlin laughed. "Is that what you came for?"
Arthur sighed, shaking his head and stepping back with a regretful sigh. "Unfortunately, no. I actually need to talk to Durstan, and was told he was last seen heading here." He turned away, then hesitated. "We can tell him, so he knows to be careful. He'll understand."
Merlin shook his head. "He meant no harm, Arthur, and was only trying to explain before I made a fool of myself. I wouldn't have even noticed it if it hadn't been for… well… the other night. I'm not fragile, but I won't pretend to be entirely stable just yet, either. I just need a few days to find my balance again. I haven't had one that bad in a long time."
Arthur raked his eyes over him one time, then nodded, willing to accept that his lover was being entirely honest with him. He'd confess to being on edge and hyper vigilant of the younger man. There had been an itch between his shoulders for days, and everything in him was screaming at him to grab his lover and run. Which was ridiculous, of course. He was literally not only royalty, but also a religious icon here. It was probably one of the safest places they could be.
But no matter how often he repeated that, he couldn't shake the feeling something was coming.
MERLIN1010101010101010110MERLIN
Durstan watched from the front of the room standing just behind his mother, with his younger sister beside him, his chest swelling with pride as his Brother swept down the aisle between the entire Court into the Throne room tall and proud, like he'd made this walk a hundred times over. He was as magnificent as he had been the day of the Challenge, only this time his weapons sat perfectly naturally on his thighs, his cloak flourishing behind him.
Elloise was watching him with a curious and appraising eye. She had been determined that he should also inherit her dislike of Bursus. Durstan would admit, he'd placed a small wager with his mother on whether the warlock would win her over. He had this small window as his sister was quick to make her judgements. So far, the slight widening of her eyes boded well for his win.
His new little sister was in her basket, unhappy with the feeling of a full room and fussing, slightly to the right and below his mother, her attendant trying to shush her. He drew in a sharp breath when Merlin paused on his approach, looking at the baby.
He shook his head, and confidently swooped in to kiss the Queen on each cheek as if he'd done it before, then backed up in front of her and knelt to her, fist to heart, calmly announcing the great victory over the Saxons.
Durstan beamed when Merlin then stood and took his place to her right, allowing himself and Elloise to complete their greetings. The Prince was impressed he managed the entire ceremony without a single blush or duck of his head.
Merlin kept glancing at the basket, however, and once Elloise had completed her greeting, he moved to it, fascinated by it. There were murmurs, and Durstan shifted, as this was unusual. Merlin had done exceptionally well in proving he'd understood his earlier words so far, but this… they hadn't discussed. He sensed enough, however, to know something was drawing the boy to the baby. Even his Mother watched curiously, making no move to stop him.
Merlin couldn't keep his eyes off the baby. He felt an immediate kinship with her, and there was something… he couldn't put his finger on it. Nor could he have stopped himself from finally leaning over the basket, reaching out a finger for her to grab, which she did with a loud peel of laughter.
He brought up his other hand and let his eyes flash gold as he blew into it, creating dark green butterflies of light to fly around her. He smiled so gently when she was delighted by them, reaching for one. When she managed to grab one, hold the thing made of light in her hand, his eyes widened.
"Oh little one," he breathed, though it was so silent in the room he was easily heard. "You are special beyond words. Your gifts, my Little Lady, will bring great prosperity to all of Albion," he predicted, feeling her potential for strong magic within her. "I will help you learn." He stood up, and flushed, realizing the entire Royal Family was watching him, bug eyed, while the court whispered and murmured.
He knew his religious title wasn't supposed to be acknowledged, but a memory tugged at him, and his mouth opened without thought as he reached down and placed a hand on her forehead, his eyes flashing gold of their own accord. "My Little Sister will come to me in Camelot- she will know when the time is right. I name her now Apprentice and Heir to Emrys, baptize her under the will and Light of the Triple Goddess as Anah, chosen of Destiny, wielder of fortune."
Durstan went wide eyed, but immediately went to knee- as did the Queen and the entire court- as they called out, "Hail Anah, Blessed of Emrys," in unison, as if uttering the ending of a prayer.
Merlin took a deep breath as he felt his eyes return to their normal gold crowned blue, closing his eyes as the whispers in his memory faded away. He returned to his place, feeling like a weight had been lifted off his shoulders, like this had been a duty he hadn't consciously known was his to carry out. He frowned, noticing the entire court stayed kneeling until he took his place next to the Queen, visually stationing himself as Elder Prince once again.
Durstan took a deep, shaking breath. He couldn't contain the excitement that flowed through him. He doubted Merlin understood at all what he had just done. He'd seen the boy act in that semi state of trance before. More often since the Battle. Destiny had spoken here today, and he wasn't the only one to recognize it. It hadn't been Merlin's place to name the girl- especially before she'd reached her first year!- but he knew his sister would never carry another. He had honored her far beyond what he could fathom.
His eyes darted to the hallway at the end of the room, seeing Arthur watching his lover with narrowed eyes. There would be no way for him to fully see what was happening, but he had heard Merlin's firmly spoken words, and watched the entire room kneel.
The Prince moved quickly, stepping below the Queen. "Your Majesty," he bowed. "May I please present to you King Arthur Pendragon of Camelot, Keeper of the Five Kingdom Alliance, Defender of Justice and Law, First Knight of Camelot and Liege to Vassal Kingdom of Dumnonia, Battle Commander of the Prophesied Great Battle, Son of the Glorious Dead Uther Pendragon, Son of the Blessed Dead, Queen Ygraine de Bois, may She Rest forever in the hand of the Triple Goddess shaded in the Eternal Garden." He stepped aside as Arthur had begun making his way with the first starting of his titles.
The King stood proudly before the Queen, reaching out to take her hand and lay a properly chaste kiss on it. He had to admit to being startled. She was a beautiful woman, long dark brown hair and dark brown eyes that danced like her sons, but there was a fire in them, too, that spoke of great inner strength. It was the first time someone had included his lineage in an introduction, and his heart clenched at his mother's name. He'd understood, of course, that there was a clear distinction between those who died pure and those who died having taken a life. While he, himself, would never credit Uther with the honor associated with the Glorious Dead, it touched him in a way he hadn't expected to have his mother included in the Blessed Dead of the old religion.
"Your Majesty, on behalf of Camelot, I greet you in peace, and welcome the Alliance of our two great Kingdoms," Arthur intoned, standing proudly.
The Queen nodded at him, then smiled. "King Arthur, we welcome you to Dumnonia, and we wish nothing but fair winds for our Trade." She held out her hand to Merlin, who took it automatically. She pulled him to stand next to her. She turned to the Court. "In addition to a Contract Alliance, Knight King Arthur has also pledged his acceptance to wed our Elder Prince, Battleguard of Ships, and Battle Mage." She looked at Merlin. "Is it your intention to accept your responsibility and duty to your Kingdom, my son, to secure this alliance?"
Merlin blushed, but nodded. "It is, your Majesty."
She reached for Arthur's hand then, which he gave without hesitation, grinning. "Dumnonia accepts the union, and under the eyes of our laws, and the blessed Light of Emrys, we will acknowledge no other. An Alliance now bound in blood, bound in spirit, and bound in lasting peace." She placed their hands together- Merlin's over Arthur's indicating the rank of the marriage to the Court- then she smiled. "We welcome you now, Arthur Pendragon, as Family." She leaned over, kissing each of his cheeks.
The Court cheered loudly. Arthur nodded solemnly then took his place, standing just below and behind Merlin. He felt no shame in it. He understood ranking very well, and had no issue with it being different than Camelot's. Durstan had been thorough in educating him on the hundreds of little ceremonial significance to even how one placed their feet.
They watched, grinning both, when a similar process was repeated with Gwen's introduction, both men proud of her when she carried herself gracefully, accustomed now to her own standing and authority. He felt his heart clench a little as Tom and her mother were included as well in the Blessed Dead, and Lancelot as the Glorious Dead. Being a widow to the Glorious Dead held its own special significance, he'd learned. The ranking had been explained to her, as well. She was truly Camelot's rose, Arthur thought, and felt his Kingdom had been more than well represented today, even with Merlin's side step with the baby.
He watched as Gwen greeted Merlin as her brother, a kiss on each cheek, and if it lingered just a moment more, he didn't care. Her kiss on his single cheek did the same. They were family now, by marriage. He was glad Durstan had been kind enough to go over the expectations of this. Arthur would never have considered the impact a kiss on the cheek could have!
When the Court cheered again, he joined them. He'd been watching his Queen, his old friend, very carefully. While there was a trace of sadness about her, she was glowing in her happiness. In the end, that was what mattered most to him, and the way her eyes lit up when they rested on Durstan filled his heart with joy.
He sighed as the ceremony wrapped up, paling a little when he saw the casks being brought out. Was he to spend his entire visit drunk?
MERLIN101010101010101010MERLIN
"Your men are truly skilled, Durstan. I saw it on the battlefield, of course, but to see it here, in practice!" Arthur shook his head, sincerely impressed. "They are incredibly disciplined, each one fully aware of their flaws and strengths, fighting to them appropriately." A very large part of him wished he was down there with them, but he had been told it would be extremely inappropriate for him to do so. "Their footwork is balanced, steady. Look at how Eliam keeps them in line!" He couldn't contain his enthusiasm.
Durstan grinned at him. "Thank you, Sire. They have enjoyed these days together with your own Knights. Ah! My brother takes to the field again, I see. It's good to see it more natural."
Arthur nodded, watching as Merlin made his way to his opponent- Eliam himself! He'd heard there had been more than one not so quietly whispered guffaws of his choice in weapons. The Dumnonian's greatly favored the lance. He was a little jealous, too. As a foreign King, he could not take part in practice- his ranking as a Knight counting only in the marriage ceremonies and contracts- but as a welcomed member of the royal family, Merlin could. So he was forced to remain content to watch from the palace balcony overlooking the yard. There were several members of the court also watching. Watching the practice was often a form of entertainment, apparently. Wine and refreshments were brought around to them regularly.
They watched quietly. It was a good fight, and there was a begrudging respect for how long Merlin held his own against the Battle Master, but ultimately the outcome was already predicted. Merlin grinned up at the older man from his back in the sand, laughing in good nature, taking a bow to the applause once he was back on his feet.
Arthur whistled. "That's the first time I've seen him lose."
Durstan snorted. "A courtesy. He could have had Eliam, but chose instead to leave himself open. I've seen my brother dance too often, seen him use that same move several times. That's the first time he's ever made a mistake with it. Thankfully, no one else will recognize it, and Eliam's honor remains intact. It was kind of him to do it, but it would have shamed Eliam had it been discovered."
"You should probably tell him that. While he takes pride in his skills, he has no driving need to win at all costs, not in practice. Kindness will reign over pride every time," Arthur pointed out.
Arthur watched as Gwaine cuffed the boy up the backside of the head- he had seen him throw the fight- then took him through some forms, kicking his feet into place whenever Merlin mis-stepped. He'd never admit it, but the Knight was a good teacher. He pushed Merlin as hard as he'd ever pushed any future knight in training. It was, however, quickly becoming obvious that Merlin's skill was fast out pacing any kind of training level. Sighing, know it was time, Arthur put his fingers in his mouth and whistled loudly down to them. A great many people looked up. Nodding to Gwaine, Arthur held up the flat of his hand against his eyes, pleased when the Knight nodded, calling to Ian at the edge of the field. He ignored the murmurs of the Court behind him.
He watched carefully, arms crossed tightly across his chest, as Merlin shook his head violently, but Gwaine put a calming hand on his shoulder, putting it around his own eyes first, then holding it out to him. Arthur waited patiently to see if his lover would accept it. He never did well with any kind of restraint, but if Merlin wanted to play at his level, then this was part of it. He kept a close eye on the younger man, hardened his blue eyes when panicked azure rose to meet his, staying safely behind his role as First Knight, tucking the anxious lover firmly away. Seeing no respite, Merlin nodded slowly, holding out his own hand for it. Arthur breathed a sigh of relief.
Durstan frowned at him. "It is a requirement that your Knights learn to fight blindfolded?"
Arthur grunted. "Only once they've mastered at least one weapon. It teaches them to trust their senses, to be aware of their surroundings. He has good instincts for that, given he's spent his entire life hiding his abilities, but it's different to have a weapon in hand with it, to learn to trust it's balance and weight. He has to learn to sense the shift in the air around his space. This is a part of what it means to be a Knight of Camelot. I have to challenge his comfort zones if he's to improve further still."
"He was very reluctant to do it," Durstan pointed out. "I've never seen you be firm with him like that before."
"The Knights are mine to command, Durstan. I need to be able to trust the abilities of each one. I've always believed he should wield a weapon- I wasted years trying to teach him the sword- since he's been robbed of his magic on more than one occasion. It was Gwaine and Leon who realized his potential with the long daggers. His quick advancement in skill has gotten him this far, but he needs to know there's further still to go. In this, he is a Knight under my command, not my lover."
"I applaud your ability to separate the two. I can see why so many named you Battle Commander at Nemeth."
"Not as easily as you think. He'll have nightmares tonight and I'll spend the entire night feeling guilty," Arthur answered with a small smile. "I'll likely indulge him anything for the next couple of days to make up for it, too."
Durstan laughed. "It's a lucky man who gets to decide whether he commands on the field or in the chambers." He lifted a finger. "Speaking of, Sire, my mother wishes to dine with you both this evening, as well as Gwen and I. Wedding plans."
Arthur sighed. As he'd suspected, the wedding ceremony would be highly ritualistic, and long. He'd completed the purchase of the ship, as was required for his dowry, and Merlin's clothes were being made. Gwen had been, suitably, upset that she wasn't to design them. Nor had she been impressed when she'd discovered the same of her own dress. Durstan had been gifting her jewels for days so she'd have plenty of jewelry to wear come the day.
He kept a careful eye on the Gwaine and Merlin. He would admit that Gwaine was proving a patient teacher, as well, calling out his steps and taking the warlock through several slow motion paces and forms, getting him used to the feel of his weapons rather than the visual of them. He moved his eyes over to where Leon was leading several of Camelots younger Knights through their usual paces as well. Parry work was today's lesson, it seemed. Leon and Elyan demonstrated, then moved among them, making corrections where needed. While frustrated he couldn't lead the practice himself, he had to confess, it gave him an excellent opportunity to show that his men were so well trained they didn't, in fact, need him.
And then his shoulders began to itch again, and he swung his eyes, looking first to the Dumnonian's soldiers, then to the crowd of citizens that had gathered to watch. They swept over to see Gwen and Elloise also watching, giggling together. Nothing appeared out of the ordinary, but he couldn't shake it.
"Sire?" Durstan asked, noticing the sharpened gaze, the grim expression.
"Something's not right," Arthur murmured, still looking. There! A flash of metal from the far edge of the crowd. Without hesitating, he sent a warning to his lover through the Bond, knowing there was no time to remove the blindfold. He held his breath, the view from up above seeming to slow time as a dagger flew unerringly in the air toward the warlock. Felt the younger man reach to use his eyes, his field of vision, falling to one knee even as he twisted, bringing up one arm.
It wasn't until the sound of metal hitting metal, the sight of something bouncing of Merlin's vambrace, that the crowd clued into the activity that had, in fact, passed in seconds, not hours like it felt to Arthur. The crowd erupted in panic, making it impossible for Arthur to track the assailant, though he could have sworn he caught a flash of a hooded figure turning down an alley.
"Find him!" Durstan roared, his face contorted in anger. Arthur didn't stay any longer, taking off from the balcony.
MERLIN1010101011010101010MERLIN
Merlin had only the split second warning from Arthur, and reacted instinctively. Once he felt the impact on his brace, he whipped off the blindfold at the same time as Gwaine took a defensive stance around him, one arm splayed to cover him even as he shouted for Leon, his eyes tracking something.
He looked toward the crowd, and saw nothing but panic. He gathered himself to dart in the direction Gwaine was facing when he felt Leon grab his arm and start walking him toward the safety of the castle, getting him out from the open.
"Leon?" he questioned, trying to turn back, to see. "What are you doing? Gwen was over there. We have to go back. Leon!"
Leon didn't answer him, instead handing him off to Elyan. "Keep him safe. Don't leave his side until Arthur gets to him." Elyan nodded sharply. He'd also seen Gwaine take off as soon as Merlin had been gathered by Leon.
"What?" Merlin objected, growling when Elyan also gave him a hard tug. He tried to yank his arm from the Knight, but Elyan had a surprisingly tight grip on him as they moved through the crowds. Soldiers were scattering to go after the would-be assassin while citizens fled around them, returning to the safety of their homes. "Elyan! Stop!"
"No chance," the Knight murmured. "I like my bollocks too much to let Arthur take them off."
"You're being ridiculous. Gwen was over there. We need to make sure she's alright!" Merlin snarled, and tried again to take his arm away, turning away to try and help with the search, feeling the stretch in his shoulder when the Knight refused to loosen his grip. Elyan's other hand reached to grab his other arm, twisting him around and moving them forward again.
"Need I remind you, Sire, that you are betrothed to the King? That as a Knight of Camelot it is my duty to first protect said King and the royal household? An attempt was just made on your life, your Highness," Elyan hissed, stressing the titles as he looked around at the people who had calmed and were now milling around, watching them closely as they passed them in the corridor. He wasn't without sympathy, however, when he also offered, "Gwen is fine. Eliam took her and the Princess Elloise inside. We need to get you to safety."
Merlin frowned, but kept quiet, understanding the stress on his titles were for the benefit of those around them. He stopped struggling, but couldn't contain his anger. This was ridiculous! Had they been in Camelot, he would have been right there with the other Knights, tracking down whoever had thrown the knife.
His irritation only got worse when he saw Arthur- very much the King of Camelot at the moment- striding firmly down the corridor, Durstan looking equally stony faced next to him, and both of them surrounded by Dumnonian soldiers. They looked quite impressive, especially as Arthur had his hand gripped firmly on the hilt of the sword around his waist. He was more than familiar with that expression, and sighed in defeat as to what would come.
They stopped in front of a door, and Arthur took a group of soldiers in with him. Elyan didn't even hesitate to pull Merlin into the room, finally letting go of his arm.
Which was immediately taken up again by Arthur, even as the other man's hand cupped his face and anxious blue eyes searched his. "Are you alright?"
Merlin nodded. "I'm fine. Thanks to your timely warning."
Arthur pushed him back, running his hands over most of him quickly, his heart still feeling like it was lodged in his throat. He ignored the irritated expression of his lover, wanting to make absolutely sure the boy wasn't hiding any injuries.
"I told you, Arthur, I blocked it," Merlin insisted. "You saw me block it, since I used your eyes to see it and slow time."
Arthur looked at him, startled. "Is that what that was?" He turned and nodded to the Knight. "Thank you, Elyan, for seeing him safe. I saw Leon get him off the field and Gwaine take off. What happened?"
Elyan bowed slightly. "Of course, Sire. I don't know. Leon got him to me, told me not to leave him until you were with him, and then went after Gwaine."
"And Gwen?"
"Eliam has her, Arthur. She's fine. As well as the Princess," Elyan offered to Durstan. "Eliam moved quickly as soon as he saw Gwaine had Merlin covered."
Merlin nodded. "Gwaine was tracking something. He stayed only long enough for Leon to shuffle me off like some maiden in distress," he grouched.
Arthur's eyes snapped to his lover, took in the irritation, the tenseness of his shoulders that he knew had nothing to do with the attack. He frowned, his eyes widening as he understood Merlin's natural instincts had been to go after the man himself. Would the man simply never learn? Every single time Arthur thought Merlin had a firm grasp on his new status, the warlock would prove how wrong he was!
"This isn't a battle, Merlin," he hissed. "This was an assassination attempt. There's a considerable difference. I'm the deadliest man in Camelot, and the Knights would have reacted the same had it been an attempt on me. They did Camelot proud today." He nodded his approval at Elyan. "It is their duty to protect you just the same as they would me, and they performed admirably."
"I'm not a King destined to rule Albion! Also, you're the second deadliest man in Camelot. I can take care of myself," Merlin insisted. "And spare me the lecture, I already got it from Elyan. I am more than capable of helping track the man. I've done so many times in Camelot when it was your life we were defending."
Arthur ground his teeth in frustration. For all of Merlin's bravery, the lack of willingness to kill unless he absolutely had to was well known. Also known was that 'absolutely had to' was defined clearly in his mind as 'only to save someone I love'- never himself. Had the Knights allowed Merlin to go, Arthur would have had their heads on spikes by nightfall.
Durstan frowned. "This isn't Camelot, your Highness. Nor are you a mere servant any longer. It's possible the attempt was braved specifically to draw you into such a trap. Our own men will be severely chastised when Mother finds out. The men of Camelot disgraced us by being the first to react to a threat to our Prince." He shook his head. "There will be more than a few who take their own lives in disgrace."
"Forbid it," Merlin threw out instantly, realizing that Durstan was perfectly serious. "If they serve truly, they serve with their lives, not their deaths," he ordered, looking at one of the guards. "Spread the word, and quickly."
Arthur snorted. "Oh no, not a Prince at all," he mumbled sarcastically, rolling his eyes. There was no mistaking the command in that tone. He'd admit, however, that he had found Durstan's statement equally upsetting.
The guard hesitated only a moment before taking off. As he opened the door, the heavy footfalls of soldiers marching could be heard in the corridor.
"Mother," Durstan sighed. He looked quickly at them. "Whatever she says, don't argue with her!" he hissed, going to one knee as the Queen swept into the room, the guards clearly ordered to remain outside. Merlin went to do the same, but Durstan threw his hand back, landing on his shin, stopping him.
The Queen reached out for Merlin, embracing him. "Are you well?"
"I am, thank you. Thanks to Arthur, I was able to stop the blade," Merlin replied gently, though his entire countenance had been shaken by her genuine concern for him.
The Queen drew back, reaching out to give Arthur's hand a squeeze. "Thank you, for the life of my son."
Startled, Arthur nodded. "Of course, your Majesty."
"Durstan," she put her hand beneath his chin, lifting him from his knees. "Tell me what happened. Eliam reported what little he saw, assuring me that Merlin was safe with the men of Camelot. Your sister and betrothed are well. They are under guard, as a precaution, in their chambers."
Merlin turned to Elyan. "Go see Gwen. She'll be upset as well, and would benefit from seeing her brother." His unspoken orders of wanting a Camelot guard on her was clearly portrayed through the unusually hard look he passed along to the Knight.
Elyan cast a quick glance at Arthur, waited only a fraction of a second for his subtle nod, and left. His duty performed, he was anxious to see his sister and was grateful that Merlin had picked up on it. He also appreciated that Merlin put himself in a position to take the chance of insulting the Dumnonian royalty, since they had absolutely no intention of leaving that guard duty solely to Dumnonian soldiers.
Arthur tensed when he saw the Queen eyeing Merlin with a calculating gaze, which the younger met without flinching, clearly understanding she had picked up his silent command. For the first time, the King was beginning to understand the social structure Durstan had tried to explain. For all his titles, he was a foreign dignitary, while Merlin, despite not being born of the Kingdom, was an insider to this.
It shouldn't be so strange, he considered, given that Merlin hadn't been born of Camelot, either.
"I don't know much more, Mother," Durstan explained. "I was with Arthur and the other Court observers on the balcony watching the training yard. It was Arthur who detected something was wrong. He mentioned it only a few seconds before my brother blocked the blade."
"And had the aim been true?" the Queen asked.
Durstan frowned, shaking his head. It was Arthur who answered her. "A wound to the abdomen, your Majesty. Deadly, but slow and painful. I would deduce this was someone with a grudge."
"But a grudge against whom? The Elder Prince? Emrys? Consort to King Arthur, future High King? Or perhaps as a future King of Camelot himself by marriage?" The Queen questioned. "All one person, but so many different motives! And few citizens of our Kingdom would dare such a thing- fewer still who would run from it."
"I can help answer that," Gwaine called, sauntering into the room, cocky as always. There was a slash of blood visible on the side of his tunic, and he had what would be a spectacular bruise on his cheek, but he looked thoroughly amused. Leon, in comparison, walked stiffly behind him, tall and upright.
Merlin breathed a sigh of relief. "Gwaine! You're alright!"
"Course I am! Just went off to have a bit of fun, that's all," the Knight teased, winking at the warlock.
Arthur nearly took off his own tongue, he was biting it so hard. The Knight did nothing more than dip his head- rather irreverently- at the Queen. She raised an eyebrow, but said nothing, her sharp eyes raking over him again with a new assessment.
"Your findings, Sir Gwaine?" Arthur asked tightly, raised eyebrows reminding the Knight of his title.
"According to our puppet, an old friend actually, is the one pulling the strings. There are apparently several other puppets in the City. Only one of them knows where our friend is, and each puppet knows only of one other in case they're caught. I'm not entirely convinced that's the complete truth, I get the feeling he was throwing us off the scent. This is an affair of Camelot, Princess."
Arthur stiffened- not at the use of the nickname, he was far too used to it from the Knight- but at the nasty feeling crawling up his skin. He shot a look at Merlin, saw the same frown on his face. "You're sure? Your… puppet… will testify to this?"
Gwaine spread his hands widely. "Alas, puppets have a tendency to go limp once their strings are cut. But Leon can attest- that answer was absolutely true."
Leon nodded, and Arthur thought he detected a slightly green tinge to him. He didn't know why. It wasn't the first time the man had seen Gwaine in full protective mode over Merlin. His second in command had stood and literally watched the man take Agravaine apart piece by piece. Could he still believe the Knight had limits? Mentally, he lowered himself even further as the third deadliest man in Camelot.
Merlin closed his eyes. "You killed him?"
Gwaine shot a sympathetic look to the younger man, pointing to the cut on his side. "Me or him, Mate. I'm too pretty to die."
The Queen moved up next to Arthur while Merlin argued with the Knight and took a look at the wound, turning her head to Arthur's ear. "Your personal assassin? A Hand of Justice?" she murmured quietly. She was shrewd enough to pick up the subtleties being played out.
Arthur shook his head without looking at her, then jerked his chin at Merlin. Understanding lit her eyes.
"My son doesn't know, does he?" she confirmed. She hadn't known the boy long, but she sincerely doubted him hard enough to employ such methods himself. The genuine pain in his voice when he'd asked after the fate of his assailant had surprised her.
Arthur shook his head again, this time turning hard eyes on her, almost daring her to tell him.
"Does Durstan?"
Arthur nodded slowly, and with his eyes, confirmed the question he could see lingering in her expression. 'Did he kill my son?' screamed at him, and he wouldn't deny it. Bursus had died at the hands of the Knight, though Arthur had never confirmed that, nor gotten details. Gwaine had returned to the castle that night in plenty good form, however, and he would not have if justice for the attempt on Merlin's life hadn't been served to his liking.
She simply nodded back at him, turning around.
"Durstan, as this is an affair of Camelot, reassure the soldiers their honor is secure. I want full protection on the Elder Prince at all times. Make the necessary adjustments to the wedding, as well, as I suspect that will be the next open attempt. Please make sure… Gwaine… has every available resource at his disposal," she locked eyes with the Knight, "and his discretion."
An understanding passed between the two then, and Gwaine dipped his head in gratitude to her.
"Yes, Mother," Durstan agreed readily. He cast a frown at them, then left himself to spread her orders.
The Queen went over to Merlin, and cupped his face with her one hand. "Though not of my womb, do not make the mistake of thinking you're not precious to me," she murmured to him, the one and only time she would ever acknowledge he was not really hers. "It is a gift to love instead of grieve. Stay safe- I could not bear the loss of another son." She kissed his cheek, moving away and out the door before he could respond.
Gwaine clapped his hands together, looking very pleased. "So, it's a hunt, is it?"
Arthur nodded even as Merlin shook his head. The two glared at each other.
"No, Arthur."
"Yes, Merlin. This isn't some random assassin! You heard Gwaine! It's likely Beonin. You should have let me kill him!"
"What you did was right and just for what could be proven! And I won't have you blaming yourself for letting him go. If he hates me that much, then he'll face me eventually. We don't need to go looking for him, or his puppets. They'll show themselves sooner or later."
"And you're an expert on assassination attempts, are you?" Arthur hissed.
"I've stopped them from killing you often enough! So yes, I think I might know a thing or two!"
"That traitor let an army of mercenaries into Camelot! He tried to sell you to them, who then tried to sell you on the slave market! Or have you forgotten?"
"Don't lecture me, Arthur, I remember exactly what that man has cost me!" Merlin shouted furiously, and Arthur had the decency to look away, swallowing. "Hunting them down will just force him to take more drastic measures which could end up endangering someone else. It's safer to let whoever he's hired to work from the shadows, and we take them as they come. Far less casualties that way! I don't need more ghosts shouting at me every night than I already have!"
"Tell you what," Gwaine interrupted, walking up to them and clapping one hand to each of their shoulders. "You two ladies figure it out between you, and me, I'll go have some fun." He slipped away from them before Merlin could object.
"Leon, go with him," Arthur ordered the Knight, waving his hand at the retreating back of the rogue. "Make sure he doesn't cause any trouble." The Knight nodded, bowed, and left quickly.
Merlin whirled on his lover, anger clear in his expression. "Arthur! He killed the last assassin! We don't need a string of dead bodies piling up in a Kingdom that's not our own! Dumnonian laws are not our laws, and we can't risk a political upset because Gwaine gets carried away!"
Arthur looked at the younger man, wondering not for the first time if Merlin wasn't more aware of Gwaine's true nature- and unofficially adopted role- than they gave him credit for. More and more, the younger man's blind eye reminded him of his own regarding the warlock's magic over the years- forced and surface. Still. As long as it remained unspoken, he was content to leave it that way.
He had no illusions. He could command Gwaine to stop looking until he was blue in the face. The rogue wouldn't listen. That order had to come specifically from Merlin, and Merlin either didn't know, or chose to ignore, that little reality. As far as Gwaine was concerned, that left him free to dole out justice as he saw fit.
And for all that, he couldn't help the grin that split his face. "You said our Kingdom."
Merlin blinked. "I meant Camelot, where we're all from."
"You're not. You're from Ealdor. And you're worried about a political upset." Arthur turned to walk away, knowing the younger man would chase him. "Face it, Merlin, you're starting to sound like royalty!"
"Arthur, you're twisting…" their voices faded down the corridor, Dumnonian servants getting their first taste of what it was to have the two men around.