The Witchfinder
In a land of Myth and a time of magic,
The destiny of a great kingdom rests on the shoulders of two young people,
Their names,
Merlin and Mira-Liana
It was another beautiful day in Camelot. The sky was clear, there was the crispness of fall and the city was thriving. Morgana and Frik had gone off together on a little trip after having been wed. Mordred was progressing well in his studies with Gaius. Merlin and Mira-Liana were taking a walk together.
The walk was proving to be most enjoyable as Mira-Liana had been feeling cooped up and wanted some time alone with her brother. There were only two months left until her baby was born and she was craving some form of exercise and Arthur had agreed to let her go out with Merlin as long as she didn't wander too far.
"Remind me again why I let you drag me out here?" said Merlin.
"Because I'm your favorite sister and besides I was getting bored."
Merlin laughed as they sat on a log and looked at Camelot.
"Seems we only came here yesterday, doesn't it?" he said.
Mira-Liana nodded. "So much has changed in so little time. I can scarcely believe it,"
"Yeah," said Merlin. "When we came here, we barely knew anything about our powers, all we had was each other, Mother and Gaius; we didn't want to accept our destinies, we were servants and we thought Arthur was a moron."
"And as I recall, you told the Dragon and I quote, 'I don't care about my part in Arthur's life. I'm not letting my only sister marry a prat.'"
Merlin laughed. "Well, he was a prat. Besides, he won my approval, didn't he?"
"Indeed he did," said Mira-Liana. "Look at us now, Merlin. We're both married people, I'm the future Queen of Camelot, you're Arthur's advisor and we've got another family member coming."
"Yep. Have you and Arthur decided on any names?"
"Not yet," said Mira-Liana. "But there's still two months before the baby comes. We'll decide soon."
"Decide on what?" said a soft voice.
Both of them spun around to see Mordred peering at them from behind a tree.
"Mordred, how long have you been hiding there?" asked Merlin.
"Not long," said Mordred, as he sat with them. "I'm sorry. I finished my work early and I got bored when Gaius left to run an errand, so I went looking for you."
"It's alright, Mordred," said Mira-Liana, chuckling. "You just startled us, that's all. I bet you're just missing Morgana and Frik, aren't you?"
He nodded and Mira-Liana stroked his hair. "They'll be back soon, I promise."
"In the mean time, why don't we have a little fun?" said Merlin.
Merlin's eyes glowed as he changed the smoke of a distant home into the shape of a horse and made them all laugh.
When the smoke changed back, a woman ran up to them looking frightened. "Your Majesty, did you see it? The smoke, did you see it?"
"I saw nothing," said Mira-Liana.
"Mordred and I saw nothing too," said Merlin.
"Are you blind? You were right here. It was magic I tell you!" she whispered. "There's sorcery here, we must tell the King," she said, as she ran towards Camelot.
"No, wait!" said Mira-Liana.
But the woman didn't hear her and the three exchanged looks of horror.
XXX
The woman went before Uther, who was listening to her every word.
"It was sorcery you saw, you're sure of it?" he said.
"Yes, sire," said the woman.
"Swear this before your King," said Uther.
"I swear it," she said.
"Perhaps your eyes were deceiving you," said Arthur. "Maybe it was a trick of the light."
"The smoke was alive, I tell you!" she insisted. "I feared for my life."
"I thank you for bringing this to my attention. Your loyalty will not go unrewarded," said Uther.
"Thank you, sire."
Uther looked both worried and angry. "This cannot continue."
"I will hunt down those responsible," said Arthur, fully intending to do just the opposite, knowing who performed the magic. "I promise they will not escape unpunished."
"No, stronger methods are called for," said Uther. "Send for the Witchfinder."
Everyone gasped and exchanged uneasy looks at this.
"Sire, is it necessary to resort to such measures?" asked Gaius.
"The Witchfinder is a trusted ally, Gaius," said Uther. "His help will be invaluable," said Uther.
"Of course, sire," said Gaius.
By the look that was on Gaius's face, Merlin, Mordred, and Mira-Liana all knew they were in trouble. They went to Gaius's chambers at his request.
XXX
Gaius looked very displeased. "How many times must I drive into those thick skulls of yours? Your magic is a secret that must be guarded with your life! What were you thinking?"
"I wasn't thinking," said Merlin.
"Well, think Merlin, think!" said Gaius.
"Gaius, it was just a bit of fun," said Mira-Liana.
"It was mostly my fault," said Mordred. "Emrys was just doing to entertain me and Emrysa."
"Be that as it may, it was magic and it was seen," said Gaius.
"You're right, we're sorry," said Merlin.
"Is that magic book still hidden?" asked Gaius.
"Yes," said Mira-Liana.
"Good," said Gaius. "Also hide anything that connects the three of you to sorcery in any way."
"Yes, Gaius," said Mordred.
"Gaius, you're rarely this upset. What's wrong?" asked Mira-Liana.
"The man Uther has sent for, I know him," said Gaius.
"The Witchfinder?" said Mordred. "You know him?"
"Well, some know him by that name. I know him by Aredian. He's a force to be reckoned with."
"Well, the only witch here is Mira-Liana," said Merlin, trying to lighten the mood.
Gaius glared at him.
XXX
Aredian arrived later that evening. Those who knew Merlin and Mira-Liana's secret were exceptionally worried and prayed that Aredian would not find anything. He came in driving a horse that was carrying a cage and this did nothing to ease the minds of the others.
Arthur was with Uther when he arrived.
"So, where's he been all this time?" asked Arthur.
"Foreign lands, wherever the pursuit of magic takes him," said Uther.
"And he does all this in your name?" said Arthur.
"The Witchfinder serves no one," said Uther. "He's a law unto himself."
"Do you smell it?" said Aredian, startling them. "Do you smell it, Uther?"
"Aredian," said Uther.
"It's all around us, the foul stench of sorcery," said Aredian. "It's infected your city like a contagion."
"I welcome you to Camelot, Aredian," said Uther. "Thank you for arriving with such haste to be here."
"Well, let's hope I'm not too late. Every hour counts in the war against sorcery. Unchecked, it spreads like a disease and seeks out the young and the old, the weak and the able, the fair and the foul of heart alike. You've grown lazy, Uther. You've grown idle. Your once noble Camelot is rotten to the core. You stand upon the brink of dark oblivion."
Uther looked troubled by this.
"I'm at your disposal, Aredian," said Arthur. "My knights will aid you in any way we can."
"You must be Arthur."
"I must be."
"You're a great warrior, the finest this kingdom has ever known."
"Thank you."
"So, you won't be offended when I say I have no need of you or your knights. The subtle craft of sorcery can only be discovered by subtler means that's honed over decades of study. Methods known only to myself," said Aredian.
"We are grateful for your help," said Uther.
"Gratitude alone can't keep a man alive. You must put food in his belly."
"I will pay your price, Aredian, whatever it may be."
"Thank you," said Aredian. "I will bid you good night."
"Aredian!" said Arthur. "When do you begin?"
"I have already begun."
XXX
The next morning, Gaius, Mordred, Mira-Liana and Merlin walked through the market, having decided to spend some time together before going off in their separate directions.
"Gaius, isn't it?" said Aredian, startling them. "I never forget a face."
"Nor I, Aredian," said Gaius, coldly.
"You're a physician now, I hear," said Aredian. "You always did have a thirst for knowledge."
"Scientific knowledge," said Gaius.
"Of course," said Aredian, as his gaze went from Gaius, to Merlin, Mira-Liana and Mordred.
"Allow me to introduce my niece and nephew, Mira-Liana and Merlin," said Gaius. "And this is my apprentice, Mordred."
"Of course, the Princess, Arthur's advisor and Lord Frik's son," said Aredian. "It's an honor."
"Likewise," Merlin lied.
"Well, I hope your investigation proves fruitful, Aredian," said Mira-Liana. "Unfortunately, we have duties to attend to. Please excuse us."
"Naturally," said Aredian. "But, Your Majesty, I would like to see you, your brother and Mordred in my chambers in an hour, if that will be alright."
"Of course," said Mira-Liana.
XXX
Aredian's room was far from pleasing. It was somewhat dark and his ink well was a skull. He dipped his quill in the ink before writing on the papers that rested on his desk.
"You are aware then, that sorcery has been practiced in the vicinity of Camelot, my lady and sir?" he asked.
"Yes. I mean apparently," Merlin stuttered.
"No, it cannot be denied, there was a witness, or rather witnesses."
"I beg your pardon?" asked Mira-Liana.
"You were aware that the woman named you three as witnesses, I presume? I've already spoken to her, she was very clear on the matter."
"But we weren't witnesses," said Mordred, softly.
"Oh? Sorry, perhaps I misheard. Do you three deny you were present at the time of the incident?" he inquired.
"No, we were there," said Mira-Liana.
"So, you saw it, the horse conjured from the smoke?" said Aredian.
"No," said Merlin. "Mir was having a dizzy spell and had her eyes closed. I only saw the smoke for a moment before I turned my attention to her, but it was only smoke then. We saw nothing else."
"And you, young Mordred?" said Aredian.
"I saw the same," said Mordred.
"Are you saying that she lies?" he asked.
"No, we never said that," said Mira-Liana. "We said that we never saw what she saw."
"Hmm, how can that be I wonder? How can one person see something but the other see something else?"
"We can't explain it," said Merlin.
"I'm at a loss to explain it myself. Unless, it was the three of you who performed the magic," said Aredian.
"It wasn't!" said Mordred.
"Can you prove that it wasn't?"
"Aredian, you will watch your tongue!" said Mira-Liana, sternly. "You are here to work, not make accusations against the Royal Family without solid evidence. As Princess of Camelot, I hold a great deal of authority here, so if I dare hear you talk to us like that again, you will not live to see another sunrise."
Aredian bowed. "Forgive me, Your Majesty. I was merely thinking aloud."
"Then you would do well to keep your thoughts to yourself," said Mira-Liana, coldly. "If you are quite finished interrogating us, we have other matters to attend to."
"Of course, Your Majesty, that will be all…for now."
The three of them left the room.
I've never seen you like that, Merlin commented.
I've never been like that before, Mira-Liana admitted. I think the baby's making me more emotional.
I'm scared, said Mordred. What if he finds out the truth?
He won't, said Merlin.
XXX
But trouble soon followed as the next day, Aredian brought in three women who were apparently witnesses of recent sightings of magic. All of them seemed very timid as they stood before Uther. Mira-Liana, Merlin and Mordred were standing beside Arthur. All four of them were very uncomfortable and worried about what was going to happen.
"Speak. You have nothing to fear," Aredian ordered the three women.
"I-I was drawing water from the well sire, when I saw them," the woman stuttered. "Faces. In the water Sire. Terrible faces, like those who had drowned, screaming."
"Tell them what you saw," said Aredian.
"A goblin. Dancing on the coals, dancing in the flame," the second woman gasped. "It spoke, Sire, my heart near stopped for fear of it."
"As you've heard, my lord, the incident in the woods was only the beginning," Aredian said.
"There was a sorcerer, Sire, in the square. There were creatures jumping right out of his mouth," the third woman said.
"What manner of creature?" asked Aredian.
"Toads, Sire," she said. "Great, slimy things as big as your fist."
We haven't done anything, Arthur, we swear, Mira-Liana said.
I know, but someone obviously did, said Arthur.
"The sorcerer is laughing in your face," Aredian paraded. "Even now, magic flourishes on the streets of Camelot."
"I scarcely believe it," Uther gasped.
"Yet it is the truth, my lord. Fortunately, I have utilized every facet of my craft to bring this matter to a swift resolution," he announced.
"The sorcerer? You have a suspect?" Uther questioned.
"Oh I do my Lord," he sighed. "Or rather, suspects."
"More than one?" said Uther. "You're sure of it?"
"Yes, indeed. I regret to say to say they stand before us in this very room. My methods are infallible. My findings incontestable. The facts points to three people, and three people only. The Princess Mira-Liana, the Chief Advisor Merlin, and the boy Mordred."
Merlin and Mira-Liana tried to remain calm while Mordred looked frightened and held on tightly to Mira-Liana's hand.
Don't be afraid, Mordred, she soothed, knowing this probably reminded him of his first adventure in Camelot. Nothing will happen to you.
Everyone looked shocked, but Arthur just scoffed.
"You dare to accuse members of the Royal Family of practicing magic?" said Arthur. "You can't be serious."
"This outrageous!" said Gaius. "You've no evidence!"
"The tools of magic cannot be hidden from me," said Aredian, with a smirk. "As I understand it, Merlin and Mira-Liana worked for Gaius for some months and then Mordred became Gaius's apprentice just after Merlin and Mira-Liana became members of the Royal Family. Perhaps they've left something Gaius's chambers. I'm certain a thorough search will reveal some evidence."
"Merlin, Mira-Liana, Mordred?" said Uther, as he looked at them.
"We have nothing to hide from him," said Merlin, firmly.
"Very well," said Uther. "Guards, remain with those three. Keep them under constant watch until the search is over."
"Father, you can't!" said Arthur.
"I can and I will. I have to at least consider the possibility," said Uther. "Let the search begin."
XXX
Gaius's chambers were fully searched. Papers and books were thrown, bottles and jars broken, shelves and cupboards were made bare as the room was searched.
"Will you be careful!" shouted Arthur. "Some of that stuff will cost you more than your life!"
"Yes, please, that's my life's work!" shouted Gaius.
"Comb every inch. The magic-wielders are masters of concealment!" said Aredian.
"There's nothing here Aredian!" said Arthur.
"I'll be the judge of that," said Aredian, as he continued ordering Arthur's men around.
Then suddenly, a jar filled with blue powder fell to the floor and when it broke, three beautiful jeweled bracelets fell out.
"Sire, here!" said Sir Leon, as he held up the bracelets.
Aredian held them and looked smug. "Amulets of enchanment," he said. He looked at Arthur and Gaius and said, "Were you aware that the members of your own family kept instruments of sorcery?"
"No," said Arthur.
"Well, our work is done," said Aredian. "I must inform the King."
"Aredian!" said Gaius. "I know for certain that those amulets do not belong to Merlin, Mira-Liana or Mordred."
"Oh? And who do they belong to, then?" asked Aredian.
"It belongs to me," said Gaius.
"Gaius, it can't possibly—" said Arthur.
"No, it does," Gaius interrupted, with a warning look that silenced Arthur.
XXX
Merlin, Mira-Liana, and Mordred, knew nothing of this until the guards let them go. They walked down the halls, but then froze when they saw Gaius being led away.
"Gaius, what's going on?" Mira-Liana asked.
"Say nothing you three, do nothing," he said, as he was led away. "Promise me!"
"Gaius!" said Merlin.
XXX
Arthur, Mira-Liana, Merlin, Gwen and Mordred went to Gaius's chambers and saw what remained of the destroyed place. Mira-Liana began crying into Arthur's shoulder as she had so many memories in that room and now it was destroyed.
"How could Aredian do this to Gaius?" said Gwen, as she fingered a broken beaker. "How could he be so heartless?"
"I don't know," said Merlin. "Why did Gaius say the bracelets were his?"
"He was trying to protect you," said Arthur.
"He shouldn't have had to!" said Mira-Liana. "This is all my fault. If I hadn't left the city that day, none of this would happened."
It's not your fault, Emrysa, said Mordred. It's no one's but Aredian's.
"Mordred's right, Mira," said Gwen. "You can't blame yourself."
"We'll find a way to free Gaius and prove his innocence," said Arthur. "In the meantime, you need to keep yourself calm and not get worked up. It's not good for you or the baby."
Mira-Liana took a few breaths before she relaxed and nodded.
"Just promise me we'll get him home soon," she said.
"I promise," said Arthur.
XXX
That same night, Aredian had dinner with Arthur, Mira-Liana and Uther. Uther had been told of Gaius's arrest and could scarcely believe it.
"Gaius has served me with unfailing dedication. Without his knowledge, I would not be sitting here today," said Uther.
"You show great faith in him, Sire," said Aredian. "Great faith indeed, considering he was known to practice sorcery."
"Gaius?" said Arthur, pretending to not know this information. "You're mistaken."
"No, Arthur, he speaks the truth. But I'm well aware of his past," said Uther. "But I've every reason to believe he's turned his back on sorcery."
"Until now," said Aredian.
"We don't know that," said Uther. "And these amulets you found may just be some stupid mistake."
"Or maybe he's fallen back into old habits," said Aredian.
"This is absurd!" said Mira-Liana. "We must give Gaius the benefit of the doubt, surely."
"Why?" said Aredian.
"Because he is a loyal citizen of Camelot and since he is Mira-Liana's uncle, he is a part of the Royal Family by marriage and law," said Arthur.
"If I may speak freely, perhaps your emotions are clouding your judgment and preventing you from seeing his guilt," said Aredian.
"I know your methods are effective, Aredian," said Uther. "But Gaius is an old man. He could not withstand such treatment."
"It's the only way to rid our minds of doubt," said Aredian.
"Mine and my wife's are clear on this matter, Aredian," said Arthur.
"Then I must clear mine," said Uther. "Aredian, you have my permission to continue work. But be gentle. End of discussion."
XXX
Gaius was in his cell, sleeping soundly before he was rudely awoken by a bucket of water and then taken to Aredian for interrogation.
"What time is it?" he asked.
"Time for you to confess," said Aredian.
"The amulet was a relic of the past," said Gaius.
"Such artifacts are banned on pain of death, surely you were aware of this?"
"I was wrong to have kept it. I'm grievously sorry for it."
"Well, that's a good start. It's an excellent start. But not nearly enough I'm afraid."
"Aredian—" Gaius began, but Aredian cut him off.
"Guards."
And Gaius was taken away and shoved back into his cell, only to be rudely taken back to Aredian only a few hours later. This continued for what felt like an eternity to Gaius.
"Was your conscious clear when you practiced magic in the days of the Great Purge?" Aredian asked
"I didn't practice magic then!"
"Your own family keeps instruments of sorcery!"
"How many times must I tell you? It belongs to me!"
"An owner of such a thing is an enemy of this kingdom and if you're an enemy of this kingdom, you're an enemy of the King!"
"No! My conscious is clear!" Gaius swallowed painfully. His throat was hurting. "I'd like a drink of water, please."
"And you shall have one when you've confessed."
"Then I shall die of thirst, Aredian," said Gaius, coldly.
Aredian shrugged and the Gaius was taken back to his cell.
XXX
Feeling desperate, Merlin and Mira-Liana went down to visit the Great Dragon for some advice. They hadn't even been allowed to see their father-figure and they needed some help and fast.
Just as they arrived, the Dragon woke up as if he'd been sleeping.
"What is wrong, young witch and warlock? You look so pale," said the Dragon.
"I did a stupid thing," said Merlin. "A stupid, stupid thing. And now Gaius is going to die for it."
"Gaius means nothing to me," said the Dragon.
"But he means a great deal to us!" said Mira-Liana.
"Very well," he said. "Tell me what has happened."
"A witchfinder has come," said Merlin. "He's arrested Gaius for sorcery, but me, my sister and Mordred are the ones."
"Yes, I suppose you are."
"Well, I'm going to confess, it's the only way to save him," said Merlin.
"No, you're not!" said Mira-Liana. "We agreed that you weren't going to do that, remember? It would only make things worse."
"Your sister is right. So, your stupidity continues," said the Dragon.
"What do you propose we do, then?" asked Mira-Liana. "He's the only father we've ever known and we're not going to sacrifice him to save ourselves!"
"Bravely spoken, but Gaius is already doomed. If either of you confess, the Witchfinder will just burn you all," said the Dragon.
"But it's my fault, don't you understand?" said Merlin.
"All too well, young warlock, but understand this, if either of you die, you will endanger all the lives who depend upon you."
"But there must be something we can do," said Mira-Liana, as tears glistened in her eyes. "Please, there must be. Please, help us."
"Merlin, Mira-Liana, I see you are distressed by this," said the Dragon, gently. He sounded regretful as he said, "For you two, I would do anything to help Gaius, but I cannot because I do not know how to."
"We can't just stand by and watch Gaius die, we can't!" said Merlin.
"I am sorry," said the Dragon, sounding remorseful. "Truly, I am. But there is nothing I can do."
With that, he took off, leaving the twins alone and lost.
XXX
Back in the dudgeons, Gaius was being questioned yet again.
"You're a traitor, you're an imposter, sorcery is your only master!" said Aredian.
"I serve only my King!" said Gaius.
"Oh, in what way have you served him? You've lied to him, you've broken his laws, and you've betrayed his trust!"
"I've saved his life, protected his only son and treated his ward and her son!" said Gaius.
Aredian looked interested. "You've treated his ward and her son?"
"I have striven to help all those in need; it's a physician's duty to do so."
"The Lady Morgana and your apprentice, Mordred?"
"Among others."
"For what malady do they receive this treatment?"
"Mordred sometimes gets headaches and Morgana suffers from nightmares. And as I've said, I feel it is my duty to attend—"
"Yes, you seem very keen to change the subject," Aredian interrupted. "Perhaps I should question them myself. The Lady Morgana is away on a trip, as I understand, but I can still see Mordred."
Gaius felt horrible, knowing he'd probably just condemned two people.
XXX
Aredian had Mordred come down for questioning. The boy did not show fear, but rather defiance, as he was angry at Aredian's treatment of his loved ones.
"There's no need to be concerned, boy, I won't detain you long," said Areidan. "There's just some small details I need to clarify."
"What details?" asked Mordred.
"It's true, is it not, that the Lady Morgana has received treatment for nightmares and you've received treatment for headaches?"
"Yes," said Mordred.
"And it was Gaius who administered these medicines, these potions?"
"I made one myself, but yes."
"You did? How interesting. And I understand you came to Camelot with your father. Why?"
"We met Morgana when she was returning home from a trip and wanted to escort her back. I'd heard of Gaius's work and wanted to be a healer like him."
"I see," said Aredian, as he wrote this down. "Thank you very much, you may go."
Mordred got off the seat, eager to leave, but then stopped when Aredian said, "Mordred, you wouldn't care to tell me what was in these potions, would you?"
"Some herbs and water," said Mordred. "I don't remember which ones. I'm still learning."
"Of course," said Aredian. "So, for all you know, these potions might have been magical and the nightmares and headaches brought on by a magical elixir."
"I doubt it," said Mordred. "We've been having these long before Gaius started helping us. Is there anything else?"
"Just one more question. Have Lady Morgana's nightmares and your headaches gotten better or worse since he treated you?"
Mordred hesitated, but then said, "I don't know," and fled from the room.
XXX
Gaius was woken yet again but Aredian. And Aredian's smug and evil face was nothing Gaius liked seeing first thing in the morning.
"Are you prepared to confess?" he asked.
"I'd rather die first," Gaius croaked.
"Good. And die you shall, but not alone, I'm pleased to say. You shall have company."
"What?" said Gaius, confused.
"Merlin, Mira-Liana, and Mordred are to join you in the flames."
"No!" Gaius shouted, as he got up. "This is a trick."
"No, it's not a trick. You've corrupted them, Gaius. And they must answer to their King. Unless…" Aredian said, his voice trailing off.
"Unless what?" he demanded, getting desperate.
XXX
Gaius was brought before Uther and everyone else. Aredian kept shaking him as he shouted, "Confess! Confess!"
Gaius took a deep breath and then said, "I am a sorcerer sire, I am responsible for conjuring the smoke. I am guilty for practicing magic in Camelot. The goblins, the faces in the well, I am the sorcerer who conjured the toads from his mouth."
"You've betrayed me, Gaius," said Uther. "You've betrayed your friends. But above all you betrayed yourself. By the laws of Camelot, I must sentence you to death."
No, no, no, no. This can't be! Mira-Liana cried.
"The sorcerer will be purged of his magic by means of fire!" Aredian shouted. "He shall be burned at the stake tomorrow at dawn. Bear witness and heed this lesson!"
"You monster," said Merlin.
"You're a liar!" shouted Mordred.
"Guards!" shouted Aredian.
"I'll deal with this," said Arthur. "Mordred, Merlin, Ana, come with me, now!"
XXX
Arthur brought them all down to the dudgeons, ordering them to keep quiet. "I know you're angry, I know you're upset, it's alright. So am I. This is outrageous and I'm not going to let Gaius die."
"Why did you bring us here, then?" asked Merlin.
"I'm not getting you in trouble, I'm breaking the law," said Arthur. "Talk to Gaius. See what you can find out. We'll find some way to prove his innocence."
"Thank you, Arthur," said Mira-Liana.
"Thank you," said Mordred.
"Just go. I can only give you a few minutes."
Merlin, Mira-Liana and Mordred entered Gaius's cell, where they all shared an embrace.
"Gaius!" said Mira-Liana. "They wouldn't let us see you, there was nothing we could do."
"It's alright, I understand," said Gaius.
"I can't believe this," said Merlin. "I can't believe Uther would do this to you."
I can, said Mordred, bitterly.
"Mordred, he had no choice," said Gaius. "Once Aredian found the amulets, there was nothing he could do."
"We didn't know you had such things," said Mira-Liana.
"I didn't," said Gaius. "It wasn't mine."
"I should've known," said Merlin. "You were trying to protect us, weren't you? You shouldn't have had to do that!"
"Merlin, you're family. What else can one do for one's family?" said Gaius.
"We don't know what to say," said Mira-Liana.
"It's alright," said Gaius. "You don't have to say anything."
Yes we do, said Mordred. The amulets aren't ours, either.
"Then how did they get there?" asked Gaius.
"Aredian," said Merlin.
"Aredian?" Gaius repeated. "But why?"
"There's no other explanation," said Mira-Liana. "And it doesn't matter why. If we can prove he planted it, you'll be saved."
"No!" said Gaius. "You must let this go."
You're falsely accused. We have a chance to prove that, said Mordred. We must take that chance.
"No, you must not," said Gaius.
"I don't understand. Do you want to die?" said Merlin.
"No, but I don't want to see you die either. And that's what will happen to you if you get too close to Aredian. He will trap you, he will manipulate you, and without even meaning you to, you will incriminate yourself. You must let this go."
"We must let you go?" said Mira-Liana, tearfully rewording his sentence.
He nodded. "To do otherwise will be an act of suicide."
No, we won't let you go, said Mordred. We won't!
"It's time to leave," said Arthur. "The guards will be here any minute."
"Don't give up, Gaius," said Merlin. "Don't you dare give up."
"We're not going to lose you," said Mira-Liana.
XXX
As the stake was prepared and Gaius sat alone in his cell, Aredian came back. "Ah, Gaius, I hope that you found some relief now that your ordeal is over."
"Your concern is touching, Aredian," said Gaius, dryly. "Will you please get out of my sight?"
"Of course," Aredian chuckled. "I just thought you'd want to hear the news, that's all."
"What news might that be?"
"My investigations have begun."
"What investigations? You already extracted your confession out of me."
"Indeed, which just leaves the rest of your family."
"But we had a bargain!" he protested.
Aredian just laughed. "I don't strike bargains with sorcerers!"
XXX
Back in Gaius's chambers, Merlin, Mira-Liana, Mordred and Lancelot were pouring over every book they could find, hoping to find some way to prove Gaius's innocence.
Gwen then burst in. "Merlin, he-he-he—"
"Whoa, Gwen, calm down," said Merlin. "What is it?"
"I was downstairs when I heard Aredian and Gaius. Aredian's going to keep looking into you and burn you at the stake."
"I knew it," said Mira-Liana, feeling angry. "This is what he does. He pushes people to their breaking point and gets them to confess whether their guilty or not."
"Are you really so surprised?" asked Mordred.
"What're you talking about?" asked Gwen.
"They were set up. Aredian planted the amulets," said Lancelot.
"But why would he do that?"
"Aredian's paid to catch sorcerers, maybe he doesn't care whether they're guilty to not. Maybe he gets his confession by lying, planting his evidence, just as long as he gets his confession he gets his money," said Merlin.
"But even if this is true, what can we do?" asked Gwen. "Without proof, we can't do anything."
"Then we'll get some," said Mira-Liana. "We'll look in Aredian's chambers."
"I'll go," said Lancelot. "You stay here. I'll be back soon." Lancelot went out and returned a few moments later with a jar of orange-red flower petals. "I found these in the cupboard."
"What are they?" asked Mordred.
"I don't know," he admitted. "But we'll find out."
They continued pouring over several books for the next few hours, growing frustrated when they found nothing. But then Lancelot found it.
"Here it is," he said. "It's Belladonna. It's for the relieving of pains, allergies, muscular inflammation, etc."
"It's for medical purposes, it doesn't prove anything," said Gwen.
"No, wait, maybe it does," said Merlin. "Listen to this, under certain conditions, the tincture of the flower can produce hallucinations."
"This is it," said Mira-Liana. "Aredian's witnesses weren't seeing magic, they were seeing visions! It all makes sense."
"If he's faking the evidence," said Gwen. "But how can we prove it?"
"Aredian's too clever to have given to them directly. The witnesses must have been gotten from someone else," said Mordred.
"Is there anything that connects the witnesses?" asked Lancelot. "Aside from the fact that they were all women, I mean?"
"Yes, there is," said Gwen. "What's the one thing only women would buy?"
"Things to make themselves look beautiful," said Mira-Liana, as she grabbed her cloak. "Come on. We need to visit the chemist."
XXX
They all ran down to the chemist's and pounded on the door until he answered it. "Your Majesty, Sir Lancelot, Gwen, what're you doing here?"
"We need to speak with you, it's urgent," said Mira-Liana, as they followed him inside. "Do you sell a tincture of belladonna?"
"Of course," he said. "I think I've got some, but what you'll be wanting with eye drops in the middle of the night for, I really don't want to know."
"Eye drops?" said Lancelot.
"Yes, eye drops. Women use them to make their eyes look more beautiful."
"And where did you get the belladonna from?" asked Merlin.
"My usual suppliers."
"Are you sure it wasn't someone else?" asked Lancelot.
"Of course I am. Now, if it's all the same to you, I'd like to go to bed."
"It was Aredian who gave you the belladonna, wasn't it?" asked Gwen.
"I don't know what you're talking about," he said, as he turned away.
"But you do know Gaius is going to be executed tomorrow morning, don't you?" said Mordred.
"That's got nothing to do with me."
"The devil it doesn't!" said Mira-Liana. "It has everything to do with you! Aredian's witnesses saw visions, visions produced by the belladonna in these eye drops! We can prove this, we have a chance of saving Gaius, but we need your help! Please."
There was a moment's silence, but then the chemist said, "He-he forced me to sell it. He said he'd kill me if I said anything to anyone."
"It was him, though," said Merlin. "It was Aredian?"
"Yes, it was him," he confessed.
"Thank you," said Lancelot. "You've been very helpful."
XXX
They went back to Gaius's chambers and collected the belladonna and eye drops. Knowing they would need more proof as it was their word against Aredian's, they decided to plant more evidence. Merlin, Mira-Liana and Mordred snuck into Aredian's chambers and used some spells to bring in more proof—including something even Aredian couldn't deny.
When morning came, Gaius was about to be executed, but Arthur, having been told of what happened, halted the execution and there was an audience before Uther.
"You said you had proof of Gaius's innocence," he said. "Give it to me."
"Uther, Aredian's eyewitnesses saw nothing but hallucinations induced by the belladonna in these eye drops," said Mira-Liana, as she handed him the tiny bottle.
"And you three bought this belladonna from this man?" asked Uther, looking at Aredian's witnesses.
They all nodded.
"And where did you get it from?" asked Uther, to the chemist.
The chemist looked at Aredian and fear crossed his features as he remained silent.
"Don't be afraid, no harm will come to you here," said Uther.
"The Witchfinder," he said. "He gave it to me."
"Did he tell you what it was for?" asked Uther.
"No. Only that if I did not sell it, he'd have me burnt at the stake."
"Aredian, how do you answer these accusations?" asked Uther.
"They're absurd, these three have clearly concocted these lies on the hopes of saving their physician," said Aredian.
"Then you won't mind if we search your chambers," said Merlin.
"Silence, you have no authority here!" said Uther.
"Father!" said Arthur. "Seeing as how Merlin is my Chief Advisor and brother-in-law, Ana is my wife, and Mordred is Lord Frik's son, we could act upon their word. If there is truth in these accusations, let us see it. If not, then Aredian will be fully compensated and they'll bear the consequences. Let's settle this once and for all."
"I have nothing to hide," said Aredian.
"So be it," said Uther.
XXX
There was a full search of Aredian's chambers. They found nothing for the first few moments, but then Arthur said, "Look over there. Check that cupboard."
"I'm telling you, you're wasting your time," said Aredian.
"We'll see about that," said Arthur. "Check that cupboard."
When the cupboard was opened, hundreds of jeweled bracelets just like the one found in Gaius's chambers fell out and resting neatly on the shelf were dozens of bottles of belladonna.
Everyone was shocked and stepped back as Arthur drew his sword. "These things don't belong to me!" Aredian protested. "This is a trick! Those three plot against me!"
He moved forward, but then stopped halfway, looking as if he was going to be sick, and then a toad jumped out of his mouth.
"Sorcerer!" Uther hissed, as he drew his sword.
Aredian then grabbed his own knife and held it against Mira-Liana's throat as he pulled her aside.
"Mira!" said Merlin.
"Aredian, release my wife at once!" Arthur.
"Aredian, think carefully about what you're doing," said Uther. "You will never escape from Camelot alive."
"I will if you value the life of your daughter-in-law and her child," said Aredian.
No one noticed how Mordred's eyes darkened before they turned gold and the hilt of Aredian's knife grew hot, causing him to drop it and release Mira-Liana, who went into Arthur's arms. Aredian then stumbled backwards before he tripped and fell out of the window.
XXX
Gaius was immediately released after this, given a Royal Pardon and his chambers were mended by his family who were extremely glad to have him back. Gaius made a full recovery from Aredian's questioning after a full meal of food and drink and a full night's rest.
The following day, Gaius was making a list of herbs he wanted Mordred to collect when Uther came in.
"Gaius," he said. "Glad I found you here."
"As am I, my lord. I did not think I would ever see these chambers again," said Gaius.
Uther nodded. "I see everything's been mended or replaced."
"Arthur, Merlin, Mira-Liana and Mordred helped out," said Gaius. "They're loyal family and wanted to make sure I had my things returned to me."
"Yes, I know," said Uther. "I still scarcely believe Aredian was a sorcerer."
"Indeed," said Gaius. "Was there some reason you wished to see me?"
"Yes, I, uh…" his voice wandered for a moment, before it returned. "I wanted to say that I'm sorry that you suffered at his hands."
"But I did not suffer at Aredian's hands, I suffered at yours," said Gaius. "He worked for you, my lord. He was merely following your orders."
"I was deceived," said Uther.
"No, you were deceived long before Aredian came, for you deceived yourself. You see enemies where there is family and you see sorcerers where there are but servants. I am not the first to be wrongly accused in your war against magic and not all have been as lucky as I," said Gaius, harshly.
His words seemed to have some effect on Uther, who looked ashamed as he said, "I assure you, Gaius. Every measure will be taken to make sure that nothing like this happens again."
"I hope that is true," said Gaius. "For all our sakes. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have work to do."
XXX
A private dinner was in order that night as Gaius, Mordred, Merlin and Mira-Liana sat in Gaius's chambers to enjoy the food Mira-Liana ordered. It was an enjoyable meal as they sat together and chatted.
"What I don't understand is how you knew Aredian had hidden the evidence in his chambers," said Gaius.
"Just a hunch, really," said Merlin.
"I see," said Gaius. "And the toad?"
"That? We can't explain," said Mordred.
"I can hardly explain myself, unless of course, you put it there."
Merlin and Mira-Liana put down their silverware.
"Okay, Gaius, fair enough," said Merlin. "We promise we will never save your life again."
"Promise?" said Gaius.
"Absolutely," said Mira-Liana.
All four of them looked at each other and then burst out laughing.
"Honestly, you three," said Gaius. "The toad was a step too far."
"We know, we know," said Merlin, laughing.
"You should've seen the look on his face," said Mordred.
Gaius imitated Aredian and this made them all laugh.
XXX
When everyone went to bed, it was quite a relief as everyone wanted to forget what had happened. Morgana and Frik returned a few hours later—much to Mordred's delight—and things went back to normal.
Mira-Liana sank into Arthur's arms as they drifted off to sleep. They were snuggled up close together.
"I love you," said Arthur, as their hands on her swollen stomach. "Both of you."
"We love you too," said Mira-Liana, smiling as she stroked her stomach. "Just think, it's just two more months and then we'll be parents."
"I can't wait until then," said Arthur.
"And neither can the baby," said Mira-Liana, as it kicked again.
Arthur laughed as he kissed her head. "Sweet dreams."