Dragon Twins
A/N: First thing's first. I apologize to the LizzeXX, the creator of my original cover photo as it was for her story 'Sparks' (a story you should all read because it is amazing…just FYI). I found the photo online through a Google search and did not purposely steal it. I did send her a Private Message about the issue (as my anonymous reviewer should have done) and asked for permission to use the image. I have changed the image as she has requested that I do so. That being said, I did get two nice reviews and for that I thank you both.
Padfootette: I'm glad to hear you like it so far, and I hope you continue to enjoy it.
Anthea tronchard step: I can't give away my secrets silly lol. I actually haven't watched most of the series yet (*whistles innocently*) I only recently found it and got hooked. I'm up to episode 6 now but I'm going to be writing the chapters as I watch the show. I can't tell you who will end up with whom, but I can tell you that I will likely deviate from cannon when something happens in the story that I don't like or that doesn't fit my vision. I hope you enjoy my twists and turns though.
Also, some characters are not going to be entirely like they are in the show, especially Uther. I have plans in motion and I'm laying the groundwork for them so just bear with me. Hopefully you all enjoy this chapter. I'm just realizing how long each chapter is going to be with one chapter per episode but, ah well, it's fun.
Chapter 2 – Valiant
The next day found the twins being woken up by Gaius pounding on their door, and he didn't quit until Merlin actually got up and opened the door.
"You do realize the sun isn't even up yet Gaius?"
"I am well aware of that Merlin. You two have a job now…remember? You have to go to the kitchens and fetch Arthur's breakfast, and then wait for him to tell you what duties you'll be performing for him today. Oh, and do be careful around the head cook…she can be a bit…protective of the food. Now…get up…get dressed…and get a move on."
Merlin blinked at Gaius as the older man walked off to start on his own job and then turned to look at his sister…who had managed to roll back over and was curled around her pillow. He gave her a soft smile before gently prodding her back into the waking world.
"Come on Lena…you heard Gaius."
"I don't wanna…he's not nice…"
"I know he's a prat but we still have to go…now come on because I am not carrying you."
Marlena just gave her brother a little smirk because they both knew that if she asked he would very much carry her. The two managed to get dressed and down to the kitchens with no problems and Merlin was handed a large tray covered in food. Marlena sighed softly and blushed a bit when her stomach growled loudly at the smell of food.
"Sorry…"
The head cook eyed her for a moment before pushing a small pouch into her hands with a soft chuckle and shooing them out of her kitchen. As they headed up to the Prince's room Marlena looked in the pouch and gave a happy little shout.
"What is it Lena?"
"That wonderful woman gave us bread, and cheese, and a couple of apples…here take one."
Merlin carefully balanced the tray of food on one hand while catching and eating the apple with the other. Marlena tied the pouch to her belt for later and ate her own apple as Merlin gave her an amused look.
"You just have a way of getting people to give you things…I'm still not sure how you do it."
"I'm adorable Merlin…haven't you learned that by now?"
The two bickered the entire way to Arthur's room, passing Gwen in one of the halls and causing the girl to burst into a fit of laughter as they argued over whether Merlin looked better in red or blue. Gwen took Marlena's side and voted for blue which made Merlin pout at her. They finally reached Arthur's room and opened the door, rather noisily to be honest, to find the blonde prat still dead to the world in his bed.
"Right…some knight he'll make if he can sleep through someone stomping into his room. Alright Sunshine…up you get. Rise and Shine Prince Prat!"
Merlin just stared as the Prince slept right through his words and shared a glance with Marlena who laughed at Merlin's expression. She moved to the side of Arthur's bed and gave Merlin a little smirk.
"You may not want to watch this brother dearest."
"Why? What are you…oh dear gods above…"
Marlena leaned over and licked Arthur's cheek before sitting on the floor in a fit of laughter as he jolted awake and looked around in wild-eyed confusion.
"Who the hell just licked me?! I'll put you in the stocks Merlin…"
Merlin just pointed to the woman sitting on the floor laughing and Arthur felt his anger drain out of him at the sight of her. He ended up rolling his eyes and sliding out of the bed, which managed to stop the laughter as he was wearing nothing but a pair of sleeping pants. Marlena turned bright red and hid behind Merlin who was biting his lip to keep from laughing at her, which he knew from experience would only end badly for him…and his backside. Arthur looked confused at her reaction until he looked down and realized what he was wearing, or what he wasn't wearing, and just gave the poor flushed woman a confident smirk.
"What's the matter pretty girl? Never seen a man without his shirt before?"
"Not like that…Merlin…put a shirt on him already."
Merlin laughed softly as she whined at him but did what she wanted, which made Arthur pout at them both before he moved to his table as Merlin lifted the lid off of the tray so the prince could eat his breakfast. He ate silently for a few minutes and then began listing off chores for Merlin to do that day which ranged from polishing his armor to mucking the stables.
"Also…you're going to help me train for the tournament…are you any good with a sword?"
"Merlin? With a sword? Have you lost your mind? He'll drop it and cut off his toes or something!"
"Hey! I'm not that bad…"
"Yes…yes you are."
Arthur watched the two siblings bicker for a moment, amused at seeing someone other than him annoying Merlin, before interrupting them and looking at Marlena. He was eyeing her form with a speculative look in his eyes that made Merlin nervous for his sister, though she just stared back at the arrogant blonde with her chin held high in mild defiance.
"What would you suggest then? Would you prefer that I fight you instead?"
"Well…yes actually. I know how to handle a sword better than Merlin at least…I'm not great but I can at least hold my own. As I told you before I can use other weapons much better…such as daggers."
"Alright then…meet me on the training field at noon…until then you can make sure my rooms are clean, do my laundry, and you can groom my horse…and when you come to the field you can bring my lunch with you."
Marlena huffed softly at Arthur giving her much less work than he did Merlin, but Merlin seemed pleased by this if his enormous grin was anything to go by. Arthur had Merlin dress him for the day in more suitable clothes, which Marlena picked out, and then left to go and meet with his father. Marlena and Merlin decided to work together to get all of the chores done faster and had the entire room clean within an hour. The two moved on to Arthur's laundry and Marlena turned her nose up in disgust at the smell.
"Oh gods above…what the hell did he do in these pants? Did he roll around with the dogs or something? Even your clothes never smell this foul."
"Thanks Lena…I think."
They worked their way through all of the chores except for the armor and the stables, figuring those could wait until after training. When it was almost noon they went down to the kitchen and were given a basket of food to take out to the field, and the cook again managed to slip a few extra goodies into the pouch Marlena still had tied to her belt which amused Merlin to no end. He was still teasing her about it when they reached the field where Arthur was waiting for them.
"What's all this about then?"
"Marlena can make damn near anyone love her."
"Not true…"
"Yes it is…I've heard everyone talking about how that woman guards the kitchen food from the servants and yet she keeps slipping you little goodies."
"Really? That is impressive…Marlena."
The Prince practically purred her name and Lena felt her face heat up as she realized Merlin had given up her little game without realizing it. Merlin looked between them in confusion for a moment until Arthur spoke again.
"Well…at least now I know what to call you when I need something. I found some old armor you can use for our training session."
Marlena looked at the over-sized clunky armor and then gave Arthur a bland look.
"Not a chance in hell. I'd rather go without armor than use that."
"You can borrow my armor Lena dear. I'm rather looking forward to watching this."
Morgana and Gwen had managed to walk over while they were talking, and Gwen was carrying a beautiful piece of light chainmail armor fit for a woman. Arthur scowled at Morgana as she and Gwen helped Marlena into the armor, fitting a pair of leather bracers and a leather waistband over it for added protection, but he couldn't help but notice that she looked good once they were done.
"There…now you'll be able to maneuver better and kick his arse."
"Lady Morgana…"
Marlena tried to look scandalized but ended up ruining the look by laughing as Morgana and Gwen joined in. Arthur rolled his eyes at the females and motioned to the training field.
"Come on then…let's see what you're made of. I'll be using my sword…you can use whatever weapon you choose."
"Alright then…I'll use my daggers."
She reached into her boots and pulled out twin daggers, each of them had strangely curving blades that had a serpentine quality to them and the blades were almost as black as the handles. Arthur was grudgingly impressed by them as she twirled them in her hands and he realized she might actually be able to give him a challenge. As the two began to circle each other they failed to notice the king watching from a window above them. Uther was curious about the two newcomers to his kingdom, grateful though he was that they saved his son's life, and he found the girl to be quite bold for a woman…much like Morgana really. He was actually not surprised that Morgana seemed to have taken a shine to the girl, and he was both surprised and rather amused when the small female managed to land his son on his back with her sitting on his legs and one of her blades at his throat. When Arthur tapped his blade against her side she merely smirked and tapped her second dagger against his covered manhood, laughing loudly when the blonde paled and conceded the fight. She rolled off of Arthur and let him get up, mildly surprised when he helped her up off the ground and gave her an approving nod.
"You're surprisingly good…"
"Surprising because I'm a woman?"
"No, surprising because you're a servant, not a noble. Servants are rarely trained in combat."
"I used to wander a lot as a teenager…rarely staying in one place for long. I met a lot of interesting people in my travels, one was the son of a nobleman who said he was rebelling against his family. He was highly entertaining and seemed to enjoy teaching me how to fight with all kinds of weapons. I never did get the hang of the sword though."
Even Morgana was interested to hear this detail of her new friend's past and was more than willing to voice the question Arthur was thinking but reluctant to ask.
"What weapons are you good with then…besides daggers?"
"Between him and others I learned the daggers, archery, staff fighting, and the whip."
"Impressive…you'll have to show me how to use a whip someday…it sounds positively wicked."
"It can be dangerous to the wielder if you're not used to it…I hit myself many times before I got the hang of it…and I have the scars to prove it too."
The group of them sat in the shade of a tree and shared the basket of food the cook had given them, Marlena gravitating mostly to the fruits and cheeses while Merlin seemed to be more fond of the vegetables. Arthur and Morgana ended up arguing over whether or not he stood a chance at winning the tournament again.
"I won last year Morgana."
"So? That doesn't mean you'll win this year. Maybe someone better will come along and knock you off of that pedestal you seem to enjoy standing on."
Marlena snickered softly and Merlin tried to look innocent after a loud snort escaped him. Arthur just gave the two of them a baleful look that only made it worse. Gwen was trying to be polite and not laugh but eventually she couldn't stop it either. They all stopped when an arrogant voice addressed them.
"Since when do nobles dine with servants? Is this how things are done in Camelot then?"
"It is with us Sir…?"
Morgana let her words trail off in a manner that subtly demanded a name. The arrogant man was wearing an awful combination of yellow and green that made Marlena feel a bit nauseous to look at.
"Knight Valiant…and you must be the Lady Morgana I've heard so much about."
"I am. This is my maidservant Gwen and our friends Merlin and Marlena…they serve Arthur."
"I see…well now…aren't you a pretty little thing? Would you like to find out how a real man entertains a woman?"
"Sure…let me know when you find a real man."
Morgana laughed at the angry look on Valiant's face from Marlena's comment. Arthur had one of those smirks on his face as he threw an arm around Marlena's shoulders and pulled her further away from Valiant.
"You may leave now…Knight Valiant."
"As you wish…Sire."
After the man had left Marlena snorted softly and made a rather rude gesture at his back, which sent Morgana into another fit of laughter. None of them knew that Uther was still watching, and snickering softly in his own amusement at the young woman's bold words. She reminded him a bit of his late wife with her boldness and subtle insults…it was quite refreshing.
Later that night Merlin and Marlena dragged themselves into Gaius' chambers, though Merlin was far more tired than Marlena. He was dropping pieces of armor as he went and she was picking them up behind him. Gaius gave them an amused look as he teased Merlin.
"So, how was your first day as Arthur's servants?"
"It was horrible…and we've still got to learn tournament etiquette by the morning. onhríne achtung bregdan."
Merlin muttered a spell that drew the book to him and opened it up to the page he needed. Gaius smacked him in the back of the head while Marlena snickered at her brother's laziness.
"Oi! What've I told you about using magic like this?"
"If I could actually feel my arms, I'd pick up the book myself."
"I tried to help you with your chores but you insisted on doing it all on your own. It's your own fault you're in pain now dear brother mine."
"Never mind your arms. What do I do if you get caught?"
"What would you do?"
The twins both looked at Gaius, curiosity and concern warring in their eyes. The older man shifted uncomfortably and quickly changed the subject.
"Well you just make sure it doesn't happen, for all our sakes."
"Ah! I save Arthur from being killed and I end up as a servant. How is that fair?"
"WE saved him…thank you very much. I was involved too."
"Sorry Lena…I know."
"I'm not sure fairness comes into it. You never know, it might be fun."
"You think mucking out Arthur's horses is going to be fun? You should hear my list of duties. Though I have to admit…I was happily surprised that he kept Marlena's list light and easy. I think he likes her…although…everybody seems to like her."
"We all have our duties, even Arthur. Marlena is a sweet girl, friendly and helpful…it's no wonder everyone likes her really."
"Thank you Gaius."
"It must be so tough for him with all the girls and the glory."
"He is a future king. People expect so much of him. He's under a lot of pressure."
"Ah! That makes two of us."
Marlena rolled her eyes as Gaius pulled Merlin's arm back to stretch it out while he whined like a little kid. She couldn't help but think back to that knight they'd met earlier that day, and the look he'd given her before walking away. Later on she and Merlin took Arthur's armor down to Gwen's house and the maid showed them both how to arrange it and fasten it all properly.
"I guess you know what to do with the helmet."
"Erm, yeah. Yeah, that was the only bit I'd figured out."
Gwen giggles softly and Merlin puts the helmet on…backwards…which earned more giggles from Gwen as she put it on properly for him. Marlena caught the look on his face and realized, with a little snort of laughter, that he'd done it on purpose.
"How come you're so much better at this than we are?"
"I'm the blacksmith's daughter. I know pretty much everything there is to know about armor, which is actually kind of sad."
"No, it's brilliant!"
"He's right Gwen…it's actually pretty neat that you know all of this…and pretty darn helpful too."
"We'd probably be trying to use the pictures in the book we have to fasten it all in the morning and completely screwing it up…then we'd get Prince Prat killed and then the King would kill us…so you're really saving our lives here."
Marlena gave Gwen a triumphant look before they all burst into laughter. Gwen's father, Tom, stuck his head in through a window to see what they were up to and couldn't help but laugh at the image Merlin made in the Prince's armor.
"Perhaps you should look into getting some armor that fits you Merlin."
"Oh…no, no…I'm not a fighter…that's Marlena's thing. She's really quite good too."
"You should have seen her earlier today Papa…she knocked Prince Arthur on his back and actually beat him."
Tom raised an eyebrow at the now blushing female who shrugged helplessly at him. He just chuckled and let it go, distracting the other two until they'd forgotten about it. Tom had learned some new armor techniques recently but none of the nobles wanted to wear untested armor so he hadn't yet been able to use the new methods…though now he was thinking he might be able to convince Marlena to test some out for him.
The next morning the twins are in Arthur's tent while Merlin struggles to get the vambrace on Arthur's lower arm. Arthur shoots him an unamused look and a sarcastic comment that earns him a glare from Marlena.
"You do know the tournament starts today?"
"Yes, Sire."
"He's doing the best he can…Sire. He's never done this before."
"I'm aware of that…Marlena."
Merlin fixes the buckle on the gorget and gives Arthur an odd glance. He moves around the Prince, fixing and checking fastenings and ties to make sure everything is attached properly.
"You nervous?"
"I don't get nervous."
"Really? I thought everyone got nervous."
"Will you shut up!"
Marlena rolls her eyes at the two and grabs Arthur's cape, fastening it around his neck with a soft smile before stepping back as Merlin hands Arthur his helmet.
"Great, yeah. I think you're all set."
"Aren't you forgetting something?"
"The sword, Merlin."
"Oh, yeah. Yeah, sorry. Guess, uh, you'll be needing that."
Arthur grabs the sword and marches off as the twins follow close behind him. Once they reach the tournament field Arthur continues on inside with the rest of the knights while the twins wait by the exit to watch. They notice Morgana and Gwen in the stands next to Uther's seat. Uther gives a grand speech before the fighting begins. After Arthur finishes his fight he comes to stand near the twins as they watch Valiant fight. Merlin has a slightly nervous look on his face.
"Knight Valiant looks pretty handy with a sword."
Arthur seems to ignore him but Marlena can see the worry in his eyes. Valiant wins his fight easily and the three move back to Arthur's tent. Valiant stops as he goes to enter his tent and instead walks over to where they are standing.
"May I offer my congratulations on your victories today?"
"Likewise."
"I hope to see you at the reception this evening…you especially lovely."
Valiant gives Marlena a leering look and both Arthur and her brother tense up, as if preparing to defend her honor right there on the field, but Valiant seems to sense the sudden danger and backs off before entering his own tent. As soon as he's gone Merlin mutters under his breath.
"Creep."
They all snort softly before Arthur shifts awkwardly and rambles off a list of things for Merlin to do before the next morning. Marlena notices that he doesn't actually give her anything specific so she decides that she'll help Merlin anyway.
"Uh, for tomorrow you need to repair my shield, wash my tunic, clean my boots, sharpen my sword, and polish my chainmail."
When they returned to the castle the twins headed back to their rooms and got cleaned up. There was to be a small welcoming feast that night and they had to be there. Marlena chose to wear a soft, minty green linen dress with silver designs embroidered on it that she had done herself. Merlin smiled softly at her and they headed off to the feast. Once there Uther decided to have Marlena stand beside him, on the opposite side of Morgana. Marlena looked nervous but she wasn't about to refuse her king what he wanted.
As the visiting knights came down the line to greet Uther and then Morgana…they all paused at Marlena, unsure how to behave towards her. Knight Valiant, on the other hand, had no problem lifting her hand in his and kissing the back of it while locking his eyes with hers. There was something dark in his eyes that made a nervous shiver run down Marlena's spine and she unconsciously inched closer to the King who radiated power. Valiant smirked at her and turned to address the king, though his eyes kept returning to the female next to him.
"Knight Valiant of the Western Isles, My Lord."
"I saw you fighting today. You have a very aggressive style."
"Well, as My Lord said, "To lose is to be disgraced."
"I couldn't agree more. Knight Valiant, may I present the Lady Morgana, my ward."
Valiant bows to kiss Morgana's hand though he is far more polite with her than he had been with Marlena.
"My Lady."
"I saw you competing today."
"I saw you watching. I understand the tournament champion has the honor of escorting My Lady to the feast."
"That's correct."
"Then I will give everything I have to win the tournament."
Morgana smiles and nods to him and Valiant nods back before turning to the King again. There's a little smirk on his lips that makes Morgana frown when she realizes it's directed at Marlena.
"My Lord, might I inquire as to the name of the other dark haired beauty with you this evening?"
"This is Marlena, my son's maidservant and savior. My Court Physician Gaius has also claimed her and her brother as his apprentices. She has proven herself to be a valuable asset to my family and has made friends with my Ward as well."
"I see. Thank you My Lord. I hope to be able to get to know her better while I am here."
Valiant bows to the King before turning on his heel and moving to the side with the rest of the knights. Arthur steps up next and bows to his father.
"Arthur."
"Father."
Arthur turns to Morgana and speaks just low enough for her to hear him, concern flickering in his eyes even though he tries to hide it.
"Keep a close eye on Marlena tonight…I don't like the way Valiant looks at her."
"Nor do I Arthur. I'll keep her close."
The two share a nod and Arthur walks off as well. The small feast goes quite well with most of the knights getting more than slightly drunk. Morgana stays true to her word and keeps Marlena close whenever the King isn't occupying the girl's time. Uther seems keen on keeping Marlena close to him and talking to her about gods only knew what, though she didn't seem to mind as she kept smiling. Uther was asking about Marlena's life growing up, and about her adventures when she'd gone wandering. He told her that she reminded him a lot of his late wife with her spirit and boldness which made her smile softly.
"I am honored to be compared to such an amazing woman Majesty. I have heard nothing but good things about the former Queen and I am truly honored to be compared to her in any way."
"You may not look like her, but you certainly have the same strong spirit she had. I enjoyed watching you fight my son yesterday. It isn't often that anyone can get the better of him and he needed to see that there is always room for improvement."
"I'm more than happy to teach him that lesson Majesty."
Uther gave a low laugh and shook his head at the girl's bold words. He could definitely get used to having this one around more. Later that night Marlena goes up to Morgana's room to let Gwen help her change while Merlin heads down to the armory to pick up Arthur's armor…and then has to go back because he forgot the sword which is only the most important thing in the set. He hears a hissing sound and starts to search the room.
"Hello? Is there someone there?"
Merlin finds Valiant's shield and sees one of the snake eyes blink. He moves to touch it until someone puts a sword to his chest and Merlin gets up slowly. Valiant is eyeing him suspiciously and Merlin fumbles with his words.
"Can I help you with something, boy?"
"Nope. I'm good. I, I was just...I was, erm, gathering my master's armor and I forgot his sword."
"Then you'd best be on your way."
"Right, yeah. No problem."
Merlin escaped the room and ran back to Gaius' chambers, wondering just what had happened in that room and why Valiant was so protective of his shield. Marlena soon returned as well and collapsed onto her bed with a loud groaning sound.
"Oh come on…your night wasn't that bad."
"Oh really? You try sitting next to the bloody King and trying to act like it's perfectly normal. Oh god…Morgana thinks the King likes me…like…in a fatherly way…and I'm not sure if that creeps me out or not."
"It'll be fine. Being on the King's good side can't hurt right?"
"I guess so…"
The next day Merlin had Arthur's armor all set out on a table in perfect order as the Prince entered the tent.
"You did all this on your own?"
"Yes, Sire."
"Now let's see if you can get me into it without forgetting anything."
Merlin puts on Arthur's hauberk and surcoat, followed by the gorget, vambraces, pauldron, and couter. Next, his mail coif, belt, sword belt, dagger, and sword. Last but not least, the helmet gets tucked under Arthur's arm. Arthur looks grudgingly impressed.
"That was much better. Not that it could have got any worse."
"I'm a fast learner."
"I hope, for you sake, that's true."
Marlena stepped out of the shadows with a smile, Arthur's cape in her hands. She gently fastened the cape around his neck and stepped back with a soft whisper.
"Good luck."
Arthur heads into the arena and waves to the crowd as Merlin and Marlena stay by the entrance to watch. Gaius sneaks up behind them and Marlena giggles when Merlin jumps as Gaius speaks.
"Is it my imagination, or are you beginning to enjoy yourselves?"
"It isn't totally horrible all the time."
They watched and cheered as Arthur beat his opponent, joining them at the entrance once he was done. Valiant entered and fought Sir Ewan, whom Marlena had found to be a very sweet man, and after the fight was over the poor man wasn't moving.
"I think he's badly hurt."
Marlena gave Merlin a pointed look and he closed his mouth, seeing the concerned look on Arthur's face. Marlena watched as Merlin went to help Gaius transport Sir Ewan to his chambers, feeling sick at the lack of mercy Valiant showed. When Valiant moved in their direction Arthur placed an arm around Marlena and steered her back to his tent, keeping Valiant form getting anywhere near her. She helped Arthur out of his armor and he noticed her hands were shaking so he pulled her hands into his and held her still for a moment, speaking softly to her.
"Marlena…look at me. I won't let him hurt you if I can help it. He isn't as honorable as some of the others and I want you to promise me you'll try to avoid him."
"I'm not going to go looking for him Arthur…he honestly scares me a bit. I know the look in his eyes when he looks at me…and nothing good ever comes of that look. He's so…brutal…and he shows no mercy…what kind of a knight has no mercy?"
Arthur just held her close for a bit, until she stopped shaking, and then let her finish removing his armor. He had another servant come and help her take his armor to Gaius' chambers. Once she got there she dropped it all on a table and shooed the other servant out before joining Merlin and Gaius.
"How is he Gaius?"
"It's some kind of snake bite my dear…I cannot heal him without the original snake that bit him to make antivenin."
"He was fighting Knight Valiant…how could he get bitten by a snake in the arena?"
Marlena ignored Merlin's words and ran out of the room. She had a vague idea of where Valiant's room might be as all of the knights were in the same wing. If she got caught she could say she was going to Sir Ewan's room to fetch a change of clothing for him or something. She hears Valiant talking to someone and carefully peeks into his room to see him feeding a mouse to snakes that came out of his shield. She turns to leave and return to Gaius, but the door creaks and Valiant is on her in seconds. He shoves her hard against the stone wall and growls angrily at her.
"What did you see little girl?"
"Nothing…please…I was just trying to find Sir Ewan's room to pick up a change of clothes for him."
She tried to make herself seem apologetic and meek, but apparently Valiant bought her little lie, though that did not get her out of danger by a long shot. His fingers trailed across her cheek and down her neck in a parody of a lover's caress.
"I think I need to teach you a lesson in how to properly address a knight."
When he tried to drag her back into his room she wrenched her arm free only to have him grab her again so she slapped him as hard as she could. All that did was make him even more angry and he pinned her to the wall again with a hand pressing into her delicate throat. Her fingers clawed at his hand as he slowly cut off her air with one hand, while the other started to reach between her legs. Tears slowly slid down her cheeks as fear finally won out at how helpless she felt, until a deep angry voice reached her ear. Valiant backed away form her as a sharp sword was leveled at his heart. Marlena turned, gasping for air, and saw Sir Leon, one of Camelot's best knights. He held his free arm out to her and she rushed into the protective circle of it as he glared at Knight Valiant. Sir Leon backed away with Marlena until they were around a corner and then turned to lead her away from him. She thought he would take her back to Gaius but instead he took her straight to the King.
Merlin had no knowledge of what his sister had just gone through as he made the connection between Sir Ewan's injury and Knight Valiant. Valiant had gone back to feeding his shield and Merlin saw this before running back to Gaius and trying to convince him to do something. Gaius managed to talk Merlin out of going to the King, knowing it would do no good without proof.
King Uther looked up as Sir Leon carefully led Marlena into his council chamber. He noticed the rapidly darkening hand-shaped bruise on the girl's throat and felt the same protective instinct rising in him that he felt with Morgana.
"Sir Leon? Who did this?"
"I heard a scream in the wing where the visiting knights are quartered and came upon Knight Valiant pinning this girl to the wall by her throat and trying to force himself upon her. She was struggling for breath and clawing at his arm."
"Marlena? Is this true?"
"Yes Majesty."
Her voice came out a bit rough and she winced from the pain that flared in her throat. The King's eyes darkened at the sight and he beckoned her to come to where he sat. When she came over he pulled her into his lap like he had done with Morgana when she was younger and had a nightmare, rubbing her back to soothe her as she tried not to cry again.
"What happened before he did this?"
"I was trying to find Sir Ewan's room to get him a change of clothes…he may be unconscious but I still think he should be comfortable…and I passed Knight Valiant's room and heard a hissing sound. I saw through the crack in the door as he was feeding a mouse to these big green snakes…but they were coming from his shield. I tried to slip away quietly but the door creaked and he attacked me."
"He's using magic? Are you certain?"
"I saw them Majesty. I know the word of a servant means little…but I would never lie."
"I believe you my dear, but I cannot act on this without some sort of proof."
"I understand Majesty."
"I can, however, act on his attack against you. Sir Leon, bring Knight Valiant to me immediately."
"Yes My Lord."
When two knight led Valiant into the room he looked confident, arrogant even, until he saw Marlena seated on the King's lap. His face paled slightly but he tried to keep his confident look.
"You sent for me My Lord?"
"Sir Leon has informed me that he found you attacking Marlena outside of your room, and she has confirmed this. Do you have anything to say for yourself?"
"She was spying on me for your son, I had every right to punish her."
"She tells me she was looking for Sir Ewan's room, and I believe her. The bruise on her neck is proof enough of your violence towards her."
"You would take a servant's word over that of a Knight?"
"I am taking an injured woman's word over that of her attacker. You will spend tonight in the stocks as punishment, with a sign around your neck to let all of the people see what crime you commited."
"My Lord…"
"Silence! Take him away."
Uther left the room, carrying Marlena in his arms, and went down to Gaius' chambers. He kicked the door to get the attention of those inside and Gaius answered. As soon as the older man saw Marlena, and the bruise on her throat, he immediately stepped aside so Uther could bring her in.
"My Lord? What happened to her?"
"Knight Valiant attacked her. She was heading to Sir Ewan's room to fetch him something more comfortable to wear and Valiant tried to force himself upon her. Sir Leon managed to stop it before it went too far bur she is in pain and quite shaken."
"I will tend to her immediately My Lord. Merlin is with Arthur…preparing him for bed. Could you go and inform them of this?"
"I will handle it Gaius. Take good care of her…"
"Of course My Lord."
Uther went straight to his son's chambers and opened the door to find Arthur wrestling poor Merlin to the ground and trying to steal the boy's neckerchief.
"Arthur…Merlin…"
"Father."
"Sire…we were just…"
"I don't want to know. I came to inform you both that Marlena has been attacked."
"What? Lena? Is she ok?"
"Who attacked her Father? Why?"
"She was going to Sir Ewan's room to get him a change of clothes when Knight Valiant attacked her and attempted to force himself upon her. Sir Leon was lucky enough to stop it and Knight Valiant is spending the night in the stocks as punishment. Gaius is tending to her now but I'm sure she would like to see you both. I will go and inform Morgana next."
Uther left the room and the two young men raced down to Gaius chambers, met shortly thereafter by Morgana and Gwen. The four ended up in a protective circle around Marlena for the night, all refusing to leave her side in case something bad happened again. Merlin ended up curled around her on the bed with Morgana doing the same on the other side of her. Gwen and Arthur took up seated positions on either side, each with a hand on their friend to let her know they were there as well. Gaius watched on with a pleased smile before going to bed himself.
The next day the twins were just finishing up Arthur's armor, with Marlena once again attaching his cape, and watching as a serving boy had to use a step ladder to put on the helm of Arthur's next opponent. Marlena gave Arthur a nervous look and he just smirked as he responded to her, confidence practically pouring off of him.
"You're telling me you've got to fight that?"
"Yes, and he's strong as a bear…but he's slow."
"Ah, and you're fast."
"Exactly."
Merlin and Arthur shared a smirk as they headed out to the field. Valiant was waiting by the entrance and gave Marlena a harsh glare, prompting Arthur to step between them as a living shield with a glare of his own.
"Touch her again and it will be the last thing you ever do Valiant. She is under the protection of the royal family."
Valiant just glared at them while Morgana absently stroked Gwen's cloak in the stands. Morgana looked nervous as she watched the interaction between Arthur and Valiant and Gwen tried to comfort her Mistress.
"You're not worried, are you?"
"No, of course not…"
As Arthur heads into the arena Gaius approaches the twins, gently checking Marlena's throat which is hidden under one of her brother's neckerchiefs.
"How're you getting on?"
"Fine. Just doing my job. Minding my own business."
"I was asking Marlena, Merlin."
"Oh."
"I'm alright Gaius. It's a bit sore but the cream you gave me is helping."
"Good. Just stay clear of that man hmm?"
"I plan to."
Arthur fights the bear knight and wins, and Valiant also wins his next match. Merlin and Gaius look at the final brackets and Merlin scowls unhappily.
"Valiant's going to fight Arthur in the final. He'll use the shield to kill him."
"Not if we can help it Merlin. I'm actually starting to like him and I'm not going to let that monster kill him."
Later that night Marlena sat by Sir Ewan, cooling his head with a damp cloth, while Merlin and Gaius had a little talk.
"Merlin, about what I said yesterday...Look, Uther wouldn't really listen to you or me, but you are right. We can't let Valiant get away with this."
"But we don't have any proof."
"Well, if we could cure Ewan, he could tell the King that Valiant was using magic. The King would believe another knight. But how we get the antidote...Well, that's another matter."
"Uther believed me when I told him what I saw in Valiant's room, but he also said he can't act on it without proof."
"Merlin?"
Merlin left the room and peeked into the council chambers where the knights were having dinner with the King. He could hear the thinly veiled anger and disdain in the King's voice as he spoke to Valiant, and couldn't help but mirror the smirk on Arthur's face.
"So, Valiant, do you think you stand a chance of defeating my son?"
"He is a great warrior, My Lord. I do hope to be a worthy opponent."
"When this tournament is over I suggest you leave Camelot with haste, lest I decide you have offended me. Understood?"
"Yes My Lord."
Merlin headed down to Valiant's chamber and whispered a spell to unlock the door. Once he enters the room he takes a sword from a rack and approaches the shield. He turns to the door when he hears someone approaching and a snake slithers out of the shield poised to strike. Merlin sees the shadow of the snake and turns around accidentally cutting off its head. When the other snakes come out Merlin drops the sword, grabs the first snake's head and runs out of the room.
"If anyone asks I meant to do that…"
Merlin rushes back to Gaius and hands him the snakes head, earning an incredulous look from both Gaius and his sister.
"What? I'm not completely useless with a sword…"
Gaius drains some venom from the snake head and starts mixing up the antidote for Sir Ewan. He hands the head back to Merlin and sends him to Arthur.
"I'll get started preparing the antidote."
"I'm going to tell Arthur."
"You'll need this."
"And Merlin, what you did was very brave."
"Not to mention stupid…"
Merlin just gave his sister one of his dopey grins before running off to Arthur's chambers. Showing him the snake's head and explaining both what Marlena had seen and what he had seen. Arthur looked skeptical.
"You? You chopped its head off?"
"Ewan was bitten by a snake from the shield when he was fighting Valiant. You can talk to Gaius, you can see the puncture wounds in Ewan's neck where the snake bit him. Ewan was beating him, he had to cheat."
"Valiant wouldn't dare use magic in Camelot."
"Ewan was pinned under Valiant's shield. No one could see the snake bite him."
"I don't like the guy, but that doesn't mean he's cheating…even if he is a vicious bastard."
"Gaius is preparing an antidote to the snake venom. When Ewan's conscious, he'll tell you what happened. If you fight Valiant in the final, he'll use the shield. It's the only way he can beat you. Look at it!"
"Have you ever seen any snakes like this in Camelot?"
"I know I'm just a servant and my word doesn't count for anything. I wouldn't lie to you."
"I want you to swear to me what you're telling me is true."
"I swear it's true…and Marlena will swear as well. She's already told the King what she saw and he said he believed her…he just needs proof in order to act."
"Then I believe you."
Valiant is escorted through the Square to the Council Chamber as Gaius treats Sir Ewan in the Physician's Chambers. Ewan manages to wake up and Marlena gives him a bright smile.
"Welcome back."
"There was a snake on his shield. It came alive."
"You're weak. The snake's venom is still in your system."
"I must warn Arthur."
"Arthur already knows. He's requested an audience with the King. Now, they'll want to talk to you. Rest. You'll need your strength. I need to fetch more herbs. I'll be right back."
After Gaius left Marlena alone with the recovering knight she heard something hit the floor and whipped around in fear. Her eyes widened as she saw the enormous green snake rise up in front of her , lashing out with her magic on instinct to knock the thing unconscious. Sir Ewan gave her a wary look and she paled, but he was quick to reassure her.
"I'm not going to tell anyone…you just saved my life. I owe you my silence at the very least."
"Thank you Sir Ewan. Come on…let's get you to the Council Chamber and get this problem taken care of shall we?"
Marlena helped Ewan to his feet as Gaius came back in and took over as the knight's support. Marlena used some thick twine to tie the snake's mouth shut in case it came to in transit and they all headed up to the council room. Upstairs Uther was scowling at his son, though concern could be seen in his eyes if one looked close enough.
"Why have you summoned the court?"
"I believe Knight Valiant is using a magic shield to cheat in the tournament."
"Valiant, what do you have to say to this?"
"My Lord, this is ridiculous. I've never used magic. Does your son have any evidence to support this outrageous accusation?"
"Do you have evidence?"
"I do."
Arthur motions for Merlin to come forward, and Merlin hands Uther the snake head. Uther inspects the thing and realizes that it looks like no known snake in existence.
"Let me see this shield."
"Don't let him get too close."
"Be careful, My Lord."
Arthur draws his sword as Uther inspects the shield. The shield remains normal and Uther sighs softly. Valiant pounces on this and tried to turn Uther against his son.
"As you can see, My Lord, it's just an ordinary shield."
"He's not going to let everyone see the snakes come alive."
"Then how am I to know that what you say is true?"
"I have a witness. Knight Ewan was bitten by one of the snakes from the shield. Its venom made him grievously ill; however, he has received an antidote. He will confirm that Knight Valiant is using magic."
"Where is this witness?"
"We're here Majesty."
Marlena and Gaius help Sir Ewan come forward to the King, who is kind enough to not make the poor man bow. Ewan looks ill but his color is slowly returning.
"Marlena?"
"This thing tried to attack Sir Ewan and I in Gaius' chambers after he'd stepped out. It was trying to finish Sir Ewan off. No normal snake would target someone like that."
"No indeed, my dear. It also does not resemble any known snake in all of Albion. Gaius? Is there anyway to reveal the enchantment on the shield?"
"There is My Lord, but it would have to be done by Marlena as she has had the most contact with the snakes other than Knight Valiant."
"Then do it…quickly."
Gaius pulled out a small vial from his robes and handed it to Marlena, whispering to her quickly and quietly for only her to hear.
"Put this on the shield…it's a tonic that will make it glow for a moment. When everyone gasps at that quietly whisper the incantation you found last night to make the remaining snake come out."
Gaius spoke louder for everyone to hear him this time, and Uther looked slightly apprehensive about having Marlena do this as she'd already been attacked…twice now.
"You'll need to spread this over the image of the snakes and if there is any enchantment it will be revealed to us all. Do be careful dear girl."
Marlena nodded and carefully approached the shield, Valiant watching her with dark eyes and a hand on his sword. Arthur was watching Valiant in case he should attack Marlena again. She spread the mixture on the shield and when everyone gasped at the glow she whispered the spell to animate the snake. The spell brought the remaining snake out of the shield but it also woke up the one behind her which hissed angrily at having its mouth tied shut. When the snake in front of her moved to strike Uther pulled her back against him and plated his boot on its head.
"Guards…kill these creatures. Now!"
The guards quickly beheaded the two snakes and Uther turned angry eyes on Valiant, who paled as he realized just how much trouble he was now in. If he thought Uther hated him before…it was nothing to the look on his face now. Uther ordered Valiant to be taken to the dungeons and announced that he would be executed in the morning.
"In light of this I will have Sir Ewan fight Arthur in the tournament final as he was robbed of what should have been a victory for him."
"Thank you My Lord. I am honored to fight your son."
"I look forward to the fight Sir Ewan. Would you kindly escort Marlena to my Ward's chambers? I believe Morgana can make her feel better."
Marlena was shaking again and Sir Ewan gave the King a low bow before gently leading Marlena out of the room so Uther could talk to his son. Merlin was stuck next to Arthur but he knew Morgana could take care of his sister. When Gwen answered the door Morgana immediately drew Marlena into her arms and started humming softly to make her feel better while Sir Ewan explained what had happened.
"At least Uther did the right thing this time."
Sir Ewan shifted a bit and then bowed to the women before leaving to go and prepare for his fight that afternoon. Gaius declared him fit to fight and fully recovered and the fight went on for what seemed like hours to those watching. Marlena was sure it only took about an hour as the two men were well-matched. Uther had requested that Marlena sit beside him for the fight and she was more than happy to be able to sit in the shade of the royal pavilion. Arthur manages to win, but only just. He and Sir Ewan share a brief embrace of camaraderie to show there are no hard feelings and both bow to Uther. Morgana drags Marlena off to her chamber with an amused Gwen trailing behind them as Marlena complains through her laughter about being kidnapped. Uther watches the display with a smile on his face that makes Arthur feel happy, seeing his father smile in a way he hadn't in a long time. Merlin just snorted softly while Arthur had one of his smirks on again.
"Lady Morgana is going to play dress-up with my sister again isn't she?"
"I do hope so…I mean…yeah…I think so."
Merlin gave Arthur an odd look but shrugged it off and followed the Prince to get him ready for the welcoming feast. Meanwhile the girls had descended into a frenzy of activity…well Morgana had, Gwen and Marlena just watched the whirlwind as she tried to find what she wanted. Gwen had opted to wear a simple white linen dress with a light red overdress decorated with a little golden embroidery at the top. Morgana was going with a much more tame dress than she'd worn for the last feast, choosing to go with a light purple gown that had a dark purple sheer overcoat that was held on by a thin golden belt around her waist. When Morgana finally emerged from her sizeable closet Marlena felt her jaw drop to the floor, and Gwen was snickering as she tried to hold back her laughter. The gown was a very dark blue velvet, almost black, with a gentle V-shaped neckline. It was the sleeves that really made it stand out. The sleeves were a pale shimmering blue silk that had the effect of a waterfall. Once she got a closer look she noticed little silver beads around the shoulders and Morgana looked awfully smug as Marlena tried to protest.
"Morgana…this is far too special a dress for a mere servant to wear…"
"Nonsense. I already spoke with the king about me wanting to dress you up for special feasts such as this one and he's perfectly alright with it. Now…let's get you into this and then Gwen can do some sort of fancy braid for your hair."
Marlena gave up fighting Morgana, how could she if the king was even on the Lady's side? Once the dres was on her both Morgana and Gwen looked pleased.
"That dark blue really does bring out your eyes more…they're such a pretty color. They change a bit depending on the color you wear don't they?"
"Yes…certain colors make them seem blue, and others make them seem green. My mother said it's called Hazel."
"Well, whatever it's called it has quite a stunning effect."
Gwen sat her in a small chair and quickly pulled her hair into a complicated braided net that fanned out across her back and looked quite interesting. Morgana smirked at her through the mirror and looked entirely too smug. The three women made their way down to the banquet hall and met Arthur, Merlin, and Uther outside the entrance. Arthur stared at Marlena with his mouth open until Merlin elbowed him in the side and he snapped his jaw shut. Uther gave a surprisingly soft smile and bowed his head slightly.
"Morgana, my dear girl…you do have an eye for beauty. Marlena?"
"Yes Majesty."
"You could easily pass for a Princess with such beauty. Allow me to escort you inside while Arthur, as champion, escorts Morgana."
"As you wish, Majesty."
Uther offered an arm to Marlena while Arthur scowled at his father's back, though he was still smart enough to offer his arm to Morgana who was trying not to laugh at his sour face. Merlin looked at Gwen with a big dopey grin and offered her his arm, making Gwen giggle softly as she linked her arm with his and they followed the others into the hall. The visiting knights turned as the doors opened and all of them seemed surprised by the woman on the King's arm, though none dared question it of course…not with Uther's well known and volatile temper. When Marlena moved to go and join the other servants she was surprised as Uther's hand tightened over her own for a moment.
"Majesty? Is something wrong?"
"Not at all. I merely wish for you to remain here, by my side, for the evening. You would not mind that…would you Marlena?"
"Of course not Majesty…if that is what you desire."
"It is."
Both Arthur and Morgana gave Uther strange looks, unused to him being so…friendly. He was usually rather curt and closed off with just about everyone…even them, but he seemed to be taking a liking to Marlena and neither of them knew if that was a good thing or not. Merlin blinked several times and decided he would have to talk to a certain dragon later that night. Uther stood in front of the head table and announced the champion to the room.
"My honourable guests, I give you Prince Arthur, your champion."
Arthur and Morgana mingle for a while before everyone sits down to eat. Marlena kept sneaking bits of food to Merlin while the King pretended not to notice, much to the amusement of Arthur and Morgana. After the meal was over Uther led Marlena out to the center of the room to dance, guiding her through the steps after she whispered that she'd never done a formal dance before. Arthur soon took over, trading partners and handing Mrogana to Uther as he shared a dance with Marlena. After it was over and everyone was leaving Arthur spoke to both Merlin and Marlena.
"Thank you both, for helping me with Valiant and all."
He looked uncomfortable by the whole emotional display thing and quickly covered it up by being a prat again, though Merlin just laughed while Marlena rolled her eyes at him.
"My chambers are a complete mess. My clothes need washing, my, uh, armor needs repairing, my boots need cleaning, my dogs need exercising, my fireplace needs sweeping, my bed needs changing…and someone needs to muck out my stables."
That night Merlin waited until Marlena was asleep and went down to see the dragon, still surprised by how something that big could be living under the castle with no one knowing about it.
"Dragon?!"
"I am here, young warlock. No need to shout at me. I have very good hearing."
"I need your advice…about my sister."
"Yes? Has something happened?"
"She was attacked by a knight but that's not the problem. The King…he seems to be growing very fond of her. He's constantly seeking her out now and letting Lady Morgana dress her up in fancy dresses. I don't understand what's going on."
"It is her destiny, young warlock. You are the one who is meant to lead Arthur into his role as the Once and Future King, to help him survive long enough to unite the lands of Albion. Marlena's role is to soften the King…to help him see that magic itself is not evil. Her destiny is to guide Uther Pendragon back to the light, and to help him bring magic back to the world."
"Why her? What if he finds out what she is and kills her? I can't live without her!"
"He will eventually find out, young warlock…but he will not kill her. By the time he finds out he will be far too attached to her to allow her to be harmed by anyone, even himself. Rest assured that this is how it is meant to be."
"Easy for you to say…"
The dragon just gives him an amused look before flying off again and Merlin groans before returning to bed, laying there staring at his sister for a long while before sleep manages to claim him. As he sleeps his hands reaches over to twine with his sister's, seeking the comfort of knowing she's safe.
A/N: Hope you all enjoyed this chapter. I'm having a great deal of fun with this story so far.
Images for Marlena's daggers, welcoming dress, feast dress, and feast hair can be found on my Pinterest boars for this story. The link is on my profile page.
