Hope you all had a nice weekend. Now I get to ruin it by putting Merlin in lots of pain. I hope you enjoy.
Disclaimer: I don't own Merlin.
"Hello my lamb, are you going to behave yourself today?" Darian said sweetly as he stepped into the room.
Arthur held back a growl as he heard Merlin's unwelcome pet name. Merlin wasn't for some sick and twisted sacrifice! And, judging from Darian's injuries and Merlin's testimony, he wasn't completely defenseless either. That whole sentence caused shivers to run down Arthur's spine and made him see red. Merlin wasn't Darian's plaything and Arthur sure as hell wasn't going to allow Darian to use Merlin in such a manner any longer. It was time for "Sir Darian" to learn how to behave himself. A lesson that Arthur was all too glad to teach. The door was pushed open a little more. Darian took in the sight of his prize, stepping farther into the room so that Arthur could see more of the man's outline.
"You look absolutely radiant, lying in such pain," Darian taunted Merlin in his sugary-sweet voice. Arthur clenched his jaw and attempted to ignore the way Darian was speaking to his friend, like he was some object to be desired. If only Darian would step completely into the room. Arthur would have a clean shot at the man and could incapacitate him quickly. Arthur's wish was granted. Darian took another step into the room, giving Arthur a clear view of his back. It was breaking the Knight's Code to attack an unarmed man from behind, but Arthur didn't care. Darian had brutally abused Merlin for two days. Arthur was going to make him suffer. He saw Darian's hand stretch towards Merlin's limp body, about to caress the boy's torn skin like he would a lover's cheek. Arthur wouldn't allow this pathetic excuse for a human being to ever touch Merlin again.
He prepared to lunge at the knight when there was a knock at the main door. Both Arthur and Darian jumped at the sound of the unexpected visitor asking for entrance. Darian cursed and stepped out of the antechamber, swinging the door shut behind him. Arthur relaxed out of his threatening stance and walked up to the door, pressing his ear to it. Luckily Darian hadn't seen Arthur, a fact for which Arthur was truly grateful. He wasn't sure if he could fight Darian and protect Merlin at the same time.
"Ah! Darian," Arthur heard his father say in a warm and inviting voice. It was disgusting that a man so vile was the reason why Uther was now happy. Arthur clenched his jaw and reminded himself that his father was still under a spell. That would actually explain the incredible change in Uther's behavior. Several of Uther's friends had come to console him, including Lord Cadwell. But none were able to draw Uther from his grief. Lord Cadwell always managed to make Uther happy, no matter what the circumstances were. However, his visit had proved fruitless. Uther remained just as comatose as before, refusing to interact with the world because of his grief. And then like magic (which it probably was), the very mention of Darian's name had caused Uther to completely reverse his former attitude and adopt one so happy Arthur wouldn't have believed it. In fact, when Lancelot and Merlin first told Arthur about Uther's change in behavior, he didn't believe it. Arthur continued to listen to his father and Darian, one half of his brain devoted to thinking over Darian's magic and the other half ensuring that Darian wasn't about to come back for Merlin. The men in the main chamber exchanged some pleasantries before Uther steered the conversation towards his main purpose for visiting.
"I was hoping you could join me for dinner," Uther entreated. Arthur could practically hear the smile that was on the king's face. He growled as Darian chuckled lightheartedly. Like he wasn't currently using magic and torturing one of Camelot's citizens in the antechamber, mere feet from where Uther was standing. How could a sorcerer manage to have such a hold over Camelot? Why would he want such power in his hands? Did the other kingdoms know what Darian was doing? Arthur was pulled out of his thoughts as Darian's voice rang merrily through the guest chambers.
"Uther, I couldn't," he said, chuckling. Arthur was beginning to realize just how much this man laughed. It was like everything was a source of amusement to him. Arthur's stomach clenched as he pictured Darian chuckling in his light-hearted manner as he beat Merlin senseless. Stop it. Not now. Focus.
"You are leaving here in a few days, I have hardly had the time to see you, old friend," Uther countered as he awaited Darian's response. Arthur pictured his father, bouncing on the balls of his feet like an excited three year-old. Everyone in the castle acted like three year-olds when it came to even talking about Darian. Seriously, how had no one put the pieces together before now? Arthur wondered as the air became still and silent. This was caused by the delay in Darian's response. It was clear that the man was trying to come up with an excuse as to why he couldn't dine with the king. If he noticed, Uther didn't say anything. Arthur, for his part, didn't know if he would rather have his father eat with a traitor, which would allow him time to get Merlin to safety. Or if he would rather Darian stay in the room so Arthur could kill him. The decision was not his to make when Darian's voice replied to Uther's request in a congenial, and oddly stiff manner.
"Since you asked so nicely, how could I refuse?" Darian laughed. Arthur rarely heard a man sound so false in his cheer. As soon as the spell was broken, people would begin to see Darian for what he really was, a sick, twisted bastard. Arthur pressed his ear to the door in an attempt to hear the rest of the conversation. After deliberating a few details in hushed voices, which Arthur couldn't make out, the two men left. Arthur heard the door to the main chamber close and breathed a sigh of relief. Merlin began to whimper softly and Arthur rushed to his side. At least he waited until Darian had left.
"It's okay, Merlin. He's gone now," Arthur said tenderly as he stroked Merlin's head. His hair was greasy and matted, the dirt and oil coming off on Arthur's hands. Arthur wiped some sweat off of Merlin's brow with his shirt, leaving it streaked with filth and blood. He needed to clean Merlin or else his injuries would become infected. Arthur would be damned if he let his friend get any worse than he already was. Merlin stopped whimpering and reached out to grip Arthur's tunic. The motion was weak and pathetic, but Arthur's heart still clenched at the sight. Merlin needed to be comforted, to be told he was safe. The kid didn't even know that Arthur was really in the room with him. Well the next time Merlin opened his eyes he would be in Arthur's chambers, and he would be safe.
"Let's get you out of here, little brother," Arthur whispered as he looped one arm under Merlin's knees and his other behind his back. Arthur shifted Merlin so that his injured arm was pressed up against Arthur's body to help stop some of the jostling. Arthur attempted to ignore the blood that was beginning to soak through his shirt as he prepared to lift Merlin off the ground.
"Can you try and be as quiet as possible?" Arthur asked as he gently lifted Merlin up. Merlin cried out in pain and his uninjured arm gripped Arthur's shirt even tighter. Arthur stumbled as the support of the floor was taken out from underneath Merlin, his weight now being entirely suspended by Arthur. Arthur shifted Merlin's weight until regained his balance and settled Merlin more comfortably in his arms. He frowned. Merlin should not be this light. Darian may not have been feeding him, but surely two days couldn't drop a person's weight that much. The nobs from Merlin's spine and the curve of his ribs were digging painfully into Arthur's arms. Arthur was surprised that he hadn't overestimated Merlin's weight and rose too quickly. The boy wasn't skinny, he was skeletal. Arthur decided to scold Merlin about his eating habits later and began preparing for their escape.
He tired his hardest to block out Merlin's whimpering and soft cries. It was breaking his heart that this position was causing Merlin pain. That was the last thing Arthur wanted to do. But there was no other position Arthur could carry Merlin. He didn't dare toss Merlin over his shoulder, since that would put a great deal of strain on his friend's ribs. And he thought that placing Merlin on his back would also make it difficult for the boy to breath. Arthur sighed with relief as Merlin's shuddering breaths began to even out. Yes, this was the best position Merlin's could be transported in. Arthur walked over to the door and stood there for a minute, pondering how to best open it without setting Merlin down. He really should have thought of that before going through the trouble of lifting Merlin up. Finally, he shifted Merlin's weight so that he could grasp the handle, Merlin gasped with pain as his injuries were jostled again. It wasn't the most comfortable position for either of them, but it would have to do.
"You're almost free, Merlin," Arthur whispered into Merlin's ear as he turned the door handle and stepped out into the main chamber. Merlin mumbled something and turned his head so that his face was buried in Arthur's tunic. At least he seemed more at ease than before. Arthur turned and closed the door to the antechamber. The longer Darian was unaware of Merlin's absence, the safer Merlin would be. Arthur's heart beat faster as he stepped into the hallway. Merlin had stopped moving and crying softly. This caused Arthur to panic. You can't die now! I just got you back. Arthur thought as he looked down to ensure Merlin was still breathing. Arthur let out a sigh of relief to see Merlin's chest rising and falling. He caught a glimpse of his face and the look on it suggested Merlin was still in intense pain. Arthur let out a strangled cry as he attempted to not break down completely. He decided that it would be best not to look at Merlin until he could better control his emotions. Although looking at the rest of the body wasn't really helping either. In the light of the hallway, Arthur could see almost all of his brother's injuries.
"Is there anywhere that's not injured?" Arthur asked aloud as he slowly made his way down the hall, turning his gaze away from Merlin's wounded body. Thankfully, there was an ongoing war inside Arthur's head to distract him from Merlin's occasional gasps of agony. One side wanted Arthur to run back to his chambers, though this would probably hurt Merlin. Arthur flat out refused to be the cause of any more pain. The other side wanted him to go slowly to prevent further injury to the boy, though this increased the chances of him getting caught. Arthur's warrior instincts were telling him this was the worse option. Get the injured man to safety and then worry about his comfort. The former side won and Arthur proceeded down the hallway slowly, ducking into alcoves whenever he heard voices. It was always more difficult for Arthur to be a proper soldier when Merlin was involved.
Arthur shifted his burden again and turned another corner. He was almost to his chambers. Hopefully George wasn't there yet so that Arthur could put Merlin somewhere safe and come up with his next move. He was beginning to realize just how much he forgot to plan for. And Arthur couldn't really think of a plan now as his mind was currently focusing on how his arms and legs began to strain under Merlin's weight. It wasn't that he was heavy, but the position Arthur was carrying him in was still difficult to maintain for a long period of time. Arthur wasn't entirely prepared to carry Merlin for such an extended period. Arthur hadn't expected Merlin to be so damaged when he found him. He knew there would be some wounds, but nothing to this extent. He hadn't planned on caring for a half-dead Merlin. Arthur froze as he heard two familiar voices coming down the hall. Merlin began whimpering in Arthur's arms, meaning he recognized the voices as well. Arthur quickly ducked behind a large statue and sank to the ground as Darian and his father rounded the corner. Arthur didn't focus on their conversation. He was too busy trying to calm Merlin.
"Shh, Merlin. It's alright, I've got you. You're safe," Arthur murmured softly. He freed his arm from under Merlin's knees and wrapped it around Merlin's shoulders, pulling the boy closer to him and rocking back and forth. Arthur pressed his lips to Merlin's forehead as he continued to rock and whisper words of comfort to him. Arthur moved his lips to Merlin's temple before burying his face in Merlin's hair, trying to comfort him and stop him from crying out. It appeared to be working slightly as Merlin began to quiet down, though he wasn't silent enough. His heart pounded as the voices drew closer. If the men stopped talking for a second, they would here Merlin. Arthur stopped his murmuring as his father and Darian came to a halt right in front of the statue. Why couldn't they have kept walking? Arthur thought bitterly as he attempted to adjust Merlin so that he was hidden better. This caused Merlin to gasp when Arthur accidently tugged on his injured shoulder.
"I wonder why Arthur wasn't in his room?" Uther's voice questioned aloud, drowning out Merlin's cries of pain. Arthur attempted to hush him again, begging Merlin to be quiet. Merlin seemed to recognize the threat and quieted down considerably. Arthur was thankful that, for once, his servant was listening to him.
"Perhaps he went to visit his knights," Darian mused. Arthur held Merlin closer and prayed that he would continue to not make a sound. All it took was Darian to look at the right angle to see that Merlin had escaped. But Arthur didn't dare try and move Merlin again, lest he make too much noise. If Darian did happen to see Merlin, Arthur didn't think he could fight him with Merlin's body strewn across his. Although the thought of Darian being so close that Arthur could probably kill him quickly was almost too much to resist. Merlin shifted in Arthur's arms, bringing him back to reality and causing him to push thoughts of revenge to the back of his mind. The chance would come soon enough.
"Perhaps he went to visit that incompetent servant, Marvin," Uther spat. Arthur didn't mind his father insulting Merlin as much. He never really liked Merlin. He wondered what Uther would do if he found Merlin in Arthur's arms at this very second. Would he listen to his son and believe him when Arthur said Darian was a sorcerer? Or would it be like when the Katrina-troll took control of Uther's mind?
"Actually, sire, he's doing a surprise inspection of the barracks." Gwaine's cheerful voice was added to the conversation.
"Gwaine?" Arthur gasped. He had never told Gwaine he was going to do a surprise inspection of the barracks. That meant that Gwaine was lying to Uther. Perhaps he wasn't as far gone as Arthur previously thought. Maybe the spell could still be broken! He smiled as Uther and Darian took in the news.
"It appears that your presence here has made my son into a better leader," Uther said. Arthur hated the fact that Uther was complimenting Darian after all he did. At least Gwaine wasn't kissing the man's feet.
"He is already a good leader. Sometimes he just needs a push in the right direction," Darian chuckled. Arthur rolled his eyes. Again with the chuckling? He thought. Seriously, Darian was overdoing it on the cheer factor. The three men returned to an awkward silence.
"I'll be off then," Gwaine said brightly, breaking the long pause. "I've got things to protect," he added, his voice getting more distant.
"A woman's virginity not being one of them," Darian scolded playfully. Darian and Uther's footsteps echoed in the empty hall. Arthur peered around the base of the statue to see Uther and Darian turn the corner. He looked in the other direction to see Gwaine's cloak swish around the edge before disappearing from his line of sight. Arthur sat there for a few more seconds, to ensure no one was doubling back, before slipping his hand back under Merlin's knees and lifting him back up. How could such a skinny person be alive? Arthur wondered as he attempted to regain some feeling in his legs. They had fallen asleep after being trapped under Merlin in an awkward position.
"You're too skinny, Merlin. I'm going to need to watch you eat just to make sure you aren't skipping any meals," Arthur said teasingly as he continued down the hallway. This nightmare was almost over.
oOoOoOo
Arthur's heart leapt with joy as he finally laid eyes on his door. He walked quickly, but gently, up to it and opened it quietly. Arthur slipped into his chambers before closing the door behind him. He let out a breath he didn't even know he was holding before looking around his room. Never had he been so glad to see the familiar spread that he had grown up in. It's not that Arthur hated his room, but there was never really anything special about it. Arthur shook himself out of his thoughts. This was no time to reminisce. Merlin was in need of intensive care, care Arthur needed to provide. Arthur sat there, back against the door and Merlin cradled in his arms, trying to come up with a plan.
He needed a safe place to hide Merlin until he could break the spell Darian had put on Camelot. The alcove would be a good place to put Merlin, but Arthur didn't want to lay him on the ground. Arthur's eyes fell on the antechamber. He didn't want to put Merlin there, since that was where he had been held captive. If Merlin were to awaken in that room, it could cause him to break down completely. He would be under the belief that he was still Darian's prisoner. But until Arthur made the alcove more suitable, he couldn't keep Merlin there without causing more injury. After a very quick debate with himself, Arthur made up his mind and swept towards the antechamber. Merlin probably wouldn't be waking any time soon. And he was only going to be in there for a few hours. Arthur felt content with his decision. It was the best he could do at the moment. He opened the door and walked over to a bedroll that had been laid out. Arthur gently placed Merlin down onto it and removed his hands. He winced as the material caught on some of Merlin's scabs, no doubt reopening the wounds. The fabric of his shirt was now coated in Merlin's blood, causing it to stick to Arthur's arms and chest. Arthur bit his lip and looked down at his friend. He felt sick at the sight of Merlin's ankle. Arthur was aware that Merlin's shoulder and wrist were damaged, but the way the ankle just hung there was unnatural. Arthur swallowed the bile that was threatening to leave his stomach and decided to get to work healing Merlin.
"Merlin, I'm going to reset your shoulder, wrist, and ankle. It'll hurt at first but it needs to be done so it doesn't heal wrong," Arthur said gently. Merlin turned his head towards the voice but made no indication that he understood Arthur's words. This wasn't very comforting to Arthur as he thought of the painful surprise Merlin was going to have to endure in a few minutes. He would rather his friend be awake so that Arthur could confirm his consent. He also selfishly wanted to see those blue eyes staring back at Arthur with understanding, not scared confusion. Arthur scanned the rest of Merlin's body to see if there was anything else he could do to help Merlin. He decided that he couldn't accomplish a lot at the moment, but he could at least do something.
Arthur left the room and dug around a chest until he found a thick leather glove. He walked back to the antechamber and slowly opened Merlin's mouth, placing the glove in it to muffle the scream as well as give Merlin something to bite on. It appeared he had been using his cheek for the majority of the torture sessions. Probably to keep himself from screaming, no doubt causing a great deal of pain when Merlin's teeth broke through the skin. That was going to stop now. Merlin would never have to injure himself to ensure he wasn't giving a man some sort of twisted satisfaction. It took a few minutes for Arthur to mentally prepare himself for what was to come. He had reset bones before and it was never a pleasant experience. The fact that this was Merlin would make it all the more painful. Still, it needed to be done. Arthur gathered up his courage and attempted to distance himself from Merlin. There could be no shaking hands and no mistakes. He gently put his hands on Merlin's ankle and took a deep breath.
"I'm sorry," he whispered as he quickly set the ankle so that the bone was realigned properly. Merlin screamed and his back arched off the bedroll he was lying on. Arthur was unable to keep his emotional distance as Merlin continued to writhe in pain. He would reset the stony mask later. Right now, Merlin needed him. Arthur quickly pulled him into an embrace and began rocking him back and forth, carding his fingers through Merlin's hair and murmuring soothing nonsense into his ear. He needed Merlin to calm down so that Arthur could properly deal with the rest of his injuries. After a few minutes, Merlin had begun to settle down. He was still breathing heavily but was no longer attempting to get away from Arthur. Arthur kissed the top of his head before laying him down and preparing to put the shoulder back into place.
It was difficult to figure out the placement of his hands, since Merlin's wrist was badly broken. After a few experimental placements, Arthur decided that it was best to pretend he was setting a normal shoulder dislocation. The mask was put back on. Merlin was just another soldier who needed to be cared for. He wasn't Arthur's friend and he certainly wasn't his family. Despite these claims, Arthur found it harder to keep himself distant. The sounds Merlin had made before caused Arthur to hesitate as his hands rested gently on the damaged joint. After a few deep breaths, he found the strength to fix the shoulder. Arthur forced his eyes to stay open as he rotated the shoulder until he managed to set it. Merlin again arched off the bedroll, his screams muffled by the glove in his mouth. His face contorted into one of agony and suffering. Arthur forced the sounds to remain distant and he forced the writhing figure below him to turn into another faceless warrior. Merlin didn't stay this way for long. He collapsed back onto the bedroll, in obvious pain. But he wasn't fighting Arthur, so he could move to the wrist more quickly.
"Just one more, kid. Then you can rest," Arthur assured as he moved his arms down to Merlin's broken wrist. By this point the mask had almost completely crumbled. Before Arthur could dwell on Merlin's pain, he clenched his teeth and reset the bones for a third time in a row. Had he waited any longer, Arthur wouldn't have been able to set the wrist. Arthur didn't regret it, the pain would lessen, but Merlin's tortured screams were enough to shake any man to their core. Merlin cried and attempted to jerk away from Arthur. Arthur held him in place as he checked all three injuries to ensure Merlin hadn't damaged them further during the procedure. Arthur wasn't sure if he could reset the anklebone if needed. Nothing appeared to be out of place and as soon as he was done, he removed the glove from Merlin's mouth. Arthur tossed it unceremoniously across the room and pulled Merlin into his chest.
"It's okay. It's over now," Arthur said with a gentleness he didn't know he possessed as Merlin clung to his shirt and began to sob. Arthur hugged Merlin as tightly to his chest as he dared. Arthur was now more certain than ever that he didn't ever want Merlin out of his sight again. Arthur continued to cling to Merlin; afraid that loosening his grip slightly would result in Darian tearing Merlin from him again. But Arthur couldn't stay like this forever. George was due back any moment and this would be impossible to explain to him. A few minutes later, Merlin sank against Arthur's chest into a deeper exhaustion, his sobs evening out into deeper breaths. Arthur could still tell that Merlin's ribs were causing him pain as his breathing continued to hitch ever so often. Arthur convinced himself that Darian wasn't about to steal Merlin back and gently laid his friend back on bedroll. He left the room and looked around his chambers before spotting a water pitcher and goblet. He poured some water into the goblet and went back into the antechamber. Merlin's body was never going to heal itself if it remained in this starved and dehydrated state.
"Merlin, I have some water for you." Merlin remained unresponsive, not even turning his head towards the voice. Arthur sighed and lifted Merlin up so he was resting against Arthur's chest. Arthur tilted his head back and dribbled some water into Merlin's open mouth. Merlin coughed but eventually the swallowed the water when Arthur massaged his throat. He was glad some of Gaius' first aid lessons were paying off. Arthur poured more into the kid's mouth and continued to slowly give Merlin water until it was all gone.
"Good boy," Arthur said, placing another kiss on the top of Merlin's head. He gave Merlin a gentle squeeze before laying him down again.
"I'll be back as soon as I can, and then we can work on cleaning you up," Arthur promised as he closed the door to the antechamber. It was going to be another long night.
Arthur caught a glimpse of himself in the mirror. Wearing a white shirt on a rescue mission probably wasn't the best idea. His arms and torso were now covered in blood, Merlin's blood. It was also stained with sweat, tears, and grime. Arthur shuddered as he thought of how dirty Merlin's injuries must be. It was a miracle they weren't infected yet. Arthur also looked as though he had aged ten years. There were bags under his eyes and his face looked tired and worn. It was weird to see himself look so old. The first thing Arthur decided to do was change his shirt. There was no way he could explain so much blood on his garment without looking like a murderer. Arthur folded up the shirt and threw it in the bottom of the wardrobe. He would wear it to take care of Merlin.
Arthur sank down into his chair as he pulled another shirt over his head, and looked around the room. He needed bandages, yarrow, bedding, and broth. He also needed his bath to be filled so that he could clean off Merlin. Arthur allowed himself a short respite, closing his eyes and leaning back against the chair. Arthur jumped as he heard a knock at the door. He splashed some water onto his face and then sat back down at the table. George had arrived.
"Come in," he commanded. Arthur was surprised at how strong his voice sounded despite the fact that he was dying on the inside. Darian's betrayal and horrendous treatment of Merlin had cause Arthur to shatter. This was the straw that broke the camels back. There had been too many betrayals in Arthur's life and they all seemed hell bent on hurting the people he loved most. George opened the door and stepped in with a plate of food, bowing to Arthur before bringing him his meal. He was completely unaware of Arthur's tormented thoughts.
"Sire," he said as he set the plate in front of Arthur, stepping back and allowing the prince to eat. Arthur stared at the plate of food, trying to decide how to best ask George for the supplies.
"George, I have some things that need to be taken care of tonight," Arthur said as he began to cut his chicken. He didn't feel very hungry, his appetite had been thoroughly destroyed by visions of Merlin arching off the bedroll and begging Arthur to stop. But he had to put on a show for George.
"And what would that be, sire?" George asked.
"First off, I feel as though I'm coming down with something. Go down to the kitchens and get me a bowl of broth, some tea, and honey," Arthur said as he bit down into the meat. His stomach churned with the introduction of food. Arthur quickly put down the fork and pushed the plate away. There was no way he could eat tonight and keep it all down. Hopefully George would take his lack of appetite for an oncoming bought of illness and not the fact that he had the mangled body of his best friend currently haunting his every thought. George nodded his understanding.
"Should I get Gaius?" he asked, stepping forward to put a hand on Arthur's forehead. Arthur pushed the hand away.
"No, not yet. It may just require rest. However, I also am in need of several sheets, pillows, and the thickest blankets you can find," Arthur replied. He prayed that George wouldn't question Arthur's strange requests and just get the supplies.
"Excuse me, sire?" George asked, tilting his head to the side. Dammit, Arthur now needed to come up with a plausible excuse. His lie came much too quickly for Arthur's liking. Since when had he become so proficient in deceit?
"I have recently begun to take notice of Lady Mary's beauty. I wish to deliver her some sheets so that she may not be cold during the night," Arthur lied. Please buy it. He begged George silently.
"Should I deliver them?" George asked innocently. Why was he making this so difficult?
"No, no. I think it would be more romantic if I deliver them," Arthur responded, his strong tone was slowly being replaced with a less confident voice. If George continued this questioning, Arthur would be unable to keep up the ruse. And George was more loyal to Darian than he was to Arthur.
"Though you can't tell my father. The last time I was smitten with a girl, he planned the wedding before I even began to court her," Arthur laughed. George smiled and nodded. Thank the gods. Now for the last request. Arthur thought, relieved that George had ceased his inquiries for now.
"On that note, I also require a bath to be drawn. Do this last. Once you are done, you are dismissed for the evening," Arthur concluded.
"You don't wish for me to help you bath, sire?" George asked as he gathered up Arthur's uneaten dinner. Why are you all of a sudden so interested in my life? Arthur snapped in his head. Most of the time George did whatever Arthur said without question. Perhaps this was another side-affect of Darian's enchantment.
"No. I do not require your assistance. Though I do request that tomorrow you knock before entering my room," Arthur replied. He knew how fond George was of waking the prince up and surprising him with a luxurious breakfast. Tomorrow Arthur couldn't risk George finding Merlin. He had to make sure everything was in his control.
"I shall begin preparing your requests," George said with a bow. He left the room, leaving Arthur alone with his thoughts, which drifted back to Merlin incredibly fast. He quickly got up and walked to the antechamber. He opened the door to see Merlin curled up on the bedroll, cradling his injured arm.
"Don't worry, Merlin. You're going to be all right," Arthur whispered as he brushed back Merlin's dirty hair. It was all he could do for him now. Merlin leaned into the touch and sighed with content. He appeared to be in less pain now. Arthur smiled and leaned back against the wall, allowing Merlin to curl up next to him. Once Merlin was no longer in harm's way, Arthur could plan his revenge on Darian.
oOoOoOo
George had finished filling the bathtub with steaming water. He stood up and proudly admired his work.
"Is that all you require for this evening?" he asked with yet another bow, though Arthur didn't notice. He was busy examining the mountain of pillows, blankets, and sheets George had managed to acquire. Where did he get all of these? Oh right, George asked a question. Arthur pulled his eyes from the pile of linens and faced George who was standing by the door expectantly.
"Yes that's all. Thank you, George," Arthur muttered as he took in a spoonful of soup. His stomach was still protesting the food, but Arthur needed to make George happy. George smiled before bowing again and leaving the room. Once Arthur was sure he had left for good, he began preparing the room for Merlin's treatment.
Arthur dug around the cupboard and found the medical kit that was always kept in the room for emergencies. Merlin probably needed Gaius, but Arthur could apply the yarrow and honey to the wounds and cover them in bandages until Merlin got better help. He then walked over to the bathtub and scooped out a bucketful of water, placing it over the fire so that it could begin to boil. Arthur wanted to ensure the bathwater was warm when Merlin was in it. Merlin wouldn't feel it but Arthur heard from Gaius that hot water helped keep the cuts clean and free from infection. Arthur then took up making a bed in the alcove, which was more difficult than it should have been. After a few tries, Arthur finally found a combination that would allow Merlin plenty of comfort and warmth as well as the ability to close the curtain. That had been the biggest problem.
Arthur laid down a sheet next to the bathtub so that he could place Merlin on it when he was treating his wounds. He found several fluffy towels as well as the soap, shampoo, and a washcloth. Arthur brought over the basin of water as well as a stool for him to sit on. He then began tearing the sheets into long strips. He got a large pile and laid it next to the sheet that was spread out on the ground. Arthur looked around to make sure he had everything in place so that he could tend to Merlin as quickly as possible.
"Right, the shirt," Arthur muttered to himself as he took off the clean one and put back on the dirty tunic. The blood made the shirt feel sticky. As soon as Merlin was clean, Arthur could put back on the other one. For now, this was what Merlin needed to be treated in. Arthur grabbed the broth and tea as well as a goblet and made his way to the antechamber. He forced himself to return to the physician's mindset. He couldn't be distracted in any way.
Merlin whimpered and curled tighter in on himself as the door opened. Merlin was trying very hard to make Arthur's heart crumble with sorrow. It was bad enough that Arthur had to distance himself emotionally from someone who needed a great deal of comfort. But Merlin wasn't making his job easier with the whimpers that made him sound like a defenseless kitten. Arthur walked over to him and gently placed the supplies on the ground. He needed Merlin to relax so that Arthur could handle him without further injury.
"Merlin," he said softly, "it's me, Arthur." Merlin curled into an even smaller ball, as if to try and protect himself from a Darian that wasn't there. Arthur sighed and sat down beside him, stroking his hair and talking softly about nothing and everything. Merlin always seemed to be calmer whenever he heard Arthur's voice. Merlin slowly began to uncurl and gripped Arthur's pant leg tightly. Arthur continued stroking Merlin's hair for a few minutes until the boy completely relaxed. Arthur smiled and bent down to lean Merlin against his chest.
"I have some broth and tea for you," he announced as he scooped the goblet into the bowl, getting a good amount of broth in it. Arthur tilted Merlin's head back and opened his mouth, pouring in a small mouthful. This went down much easier than the water. Merlin swallowed and opened his mouth for more. Arthur smiled at the sight.
"Greedy little thing, aren't you?" Arthur chuckled softly, pouring more into Merlin's awaiting mouth. Merlin groaned as Arthur let the trickle stop. Clearly Merlin wanted more broth.
"You have to drink it slowly. We can't upset your stomach," Arthur scolded gently. It was common knowledge that people were unable to handle too much food after going without for so long. He dribbled some more into Merlin's mouth. Arthur wasn't sure why he was talking to Merlin, but it had the desired affect. Merlin was much more compliant whenever Arthur talked to him. He couldn't be sure if his friend actually understood any of the words Arthur spoke, but he knew Arthur was there and he was safe. Now if only Merlin would open his eyes and insult Arthur.
After a short while, the goblet of broth had been drunk. Arthur then poured some tea into it and repeated the process. He only allowed Merlin the two goblets of liquid since he didn't want him to get sick. Merlin also seemed to be full after he finished the tea. He closed his mouth and didn't open it again. Arthur put the goblet down and wrapped his arms around Merlin's torso, pulling him tighter into his chest. He reveled in his brother's warmth, and rejoiced in each breath Merlin took. It meant he was alive. Arthur was determined to keep him that way.
"I'm going to clean you up and bandage your wounds now," he said quietly. Merlin muttered something incoherent and burrowed his face into Arthur's neck. Arthur allowed him to stay like that for a few more minutes before deciding to start cleaning Merlin. He carefully turned Merlin so that he was cradled against his chest and stood up, taking Merlin out of the antechamber and into the main room. Arthur set Merlin down on the sheet before taking out a knife and walking over to him.
Merlin's shirt was torn beyond repair, and his neckerchief wasn't even on his neck. Merlin seemed naked without the triangle of cloth, though his shirt was exposing more of Merlin than Arthur had ever seen. Arthur bent down and began to cut the shreds of fabric that still clung to Merlin's skin. Because the garment was so far gone, Arthur didn't feel any reason not to cut the shirt off Merlin's torso. He couldn't repair it anyways.
Arthur then slipped it out from underneath Merlin and stared at the garment intently. He despised it. It had Merlin's blood all over it. The shirt was a reminder of the pain his little brother went through. Arthur angrily tossed it in the fire and watched as the material caught fire and began to burn. He pictured Darian's face in the flames instead. He had never been one for burning sorcerers, but Darian deserved the painful death. Arthur then turned his attention back to the injured boy. Merlin had begun to shiver, which confused Arthur. The shirt was torn to shreds. There was no way it helped keep Merlin warm. He knelt back down and carefully removed Merlin's shoe and sock. The other one had completely disappeared.
"Looks like I'm buying you new clothes," Arthur said as he put the boot in the wardrobe. Arthur decided not to cut the pants off and simply remove them. Merlin's pants could be repaired, and his lower half didn't seem nearly as injured as his torso. The pants were carefully folded and placed in the bottom of the wardrobe with the boot and sock. Arthur then took the pot of water off the fire and poured it into the bathtub. He stuck his elbow in the water and judged that it was cool enough to not hurt Merlin.
"Ready for a bath?" Arthur asked cheerfully. He scooped Merlin up and gently lowered him in the water. Merlin hissed and gripped Arthur's shirt as the water hit his torn skin. Arthur gently pried Merlin's hand from his shirt and maneuvered so that he was sitting behind him. He leaned Merlin's head against his shoulder and carefully began wetting the skin that wasn't covered in water. The effect was instantaneous. Dirt and blood immediately loosened from Merlin's skin and began to dissolve into the water. But Arthur could just let Merlin soak in the tub. The cuts had to be cleaned properly if they were to not become infected. Arthur decided the best course of action would be to start from the top and work his way down. He grabbed the shampoo and began to gently massage it into Merlin's scalp. Merlin whimpered and tried to get away from Arthur's hands.
"This has to be done," Arthur said gently as he washed the blood and grime from Merlin's hair. He continued to wash Merlin's body as gently as possible, wiping away the dried blood and caked dirt from his cuts. Hopefully now Arthur could assess Merlin's injuries better. After Arthur was satisfied that Merlin's injuries were clean, he repositioned himself so that he could lift Merlin out of the tub. Merlin hissed with pain as Arthur laid him back down onto the sheet. Merlin attempted to curl in on himself to regain some warmth, but a gentle hand and some soothing words from Arthur kept Merlin stretched out on the sheet. Arthur dabbed him down with the towels and reached for the honey and yarrow.
Arthur took note of every cut that decorated Merlin's body. He felt fury consume him as his eyes landed on a series of burns that looked as though they had been caused by a fire poker. Oh Darian would definitely be flayed if Arthur had any say in the man's punishment.
"Now is not the time to plan revenge," Arthur scolded himself as he lifted Merlin up and began to apply the honey and yarrow to the whip marks on Merlin's back. They probably should be stitched but this would do for now. After thoroughly coating Merlin's torso with the mixture, Arthur began wrapping the strips of cloth around his wounds. He applied several layers to ensure that the ribs were bound and that the blood wouldn't seep through. Arthur then wrapped Merlin's injured wrist, binding it tightly to lessen the amount of freedom it had. He stopped to look at the uninjured one. Even though it wasn't broken, it still had deep cuts from the manacles that had been placed on his wrists. Arthur brought Merlin's hand to his lips and pressed them to the injury. He couldn't stop the tear that escaped his eye as he felt where the broken skin melded with the uninjured skin.
"I'm sorry," he said quietly and he loosely wrapped some makeshift bandages around the wrist before setting it down and moving to the injuries on Merlin's legs. He seemed to be apologizing quite a lot recently. Though he meant it. He was sorry that he hadn't been able to get to Merlin until it was almost too late. He was sorry that his friend had been forced to endure this. And he was sorry that he couldn't do anything to Darian without more proof.
"He will pay for this, Merlin," Arthur said, slipping back into a warrior's mindset. Crying would not help Merlin. He wrapped a particularly large gash on Merlin's thigh and checked some of the other cuts to see if they needed to be wrapped. Arthur then bound the ankle and sat back. He carefully looked over Merlin to make sure he hadn't missed an injury. The handprint on Merlin's neck mocked Arthur as he took out some of his clothes and dressed Merlin. Arthur laughed as he looked down to see Merlin practically swamped in his clothes. If Merlin ever looked like a child it would be now, wearing clothing that was several sizes too big for him. Arthur positioned Merlin's injured arm so that he could bind it to his body. After securing it with some more bandages, Arthur was content with the state of Merlin's injuries. He picked the boy back up and deposited him in the alcove.
"I'll be a few more minutes, Merlin," Arthur whispered as he tucked the blankets around Merlin, making sure he was warm enough. Merlin murmured incoherently and snuggled deeper into the pillows. Arthur took that as a good sign as he brushed Merlin's hair back before standing and cleaning up the room.
The bathwater had been turned into a disgusting reddish-brown color. He was going to have to figure out a way to get rid of that. Arthur folded up the sheet and put it along with the left over bandages in the bottom of the wardrobe. He then went back into the antechamber and gathered up the tea and broth, also putting those in the wardrobe. Some blood was wiped from the floor, leaving a horrible red stain on the stones. Arthur wondered if there was any way to remove than. He put on his own nightclothes before blowing out each of the candles. Arthur added some more wood to the fire and went back to where Merlin was sleeping. He slipped under the covers with him and pulled the boy into his chest, tucking him under his chin and closing the curtains so that they were hidden from view. Arthur frowned as Merlin began whimpering and struggling against Arthur's hold.
"Merlin, it's me, Arthur," he said as he looked down. It didn't appear Merlin was trying to get away from Arthur though. It appeared that he was trying to undo the bandages binding his injured arm to his body. Realization dawned on Arthur as he maneuvered Merlin's uninjured arm out from underneath his body and allowed it to grip Arthur's tunic. Arthur wrapped his arms around Merlin's thin frame and buried his head into Merlin's shoulder.
"You don't have to hold onto me. It's my job to hold onto you," Arthur whispered as Merlin began to relax. "In fact, I'm never letting go of you again," Arthur added quietly. As Merlin's breathing became deeper, the events of the day had finally caught up to Arthur. The mask that he had been trying so hard to keep intact finally fell and shattered to pieces. Tears began to flow freely and his body began to shake. Darian hadn't just hurt Merlin, he abused him and all of Camelot. He had caused Merlin's friends and family to turn on him. Arthur knew that his knights were going to realize what they had said. They were going to realize that they had turned their backs on Merlin and were the reason he almost died. Arthur pressed Merlin into his chest even tighter.
"I hope you know you're never serving another visitor ever," Arthur chuckled humorlessly. Arthur was determined to keep Merlin safe from every threat. His tears slowed and Arthur finally found sleep. His torturous thoughts being comforted by the fact that tomorrow Darian would cease to be the golden boy everyone thought he was. Tomorrow, he would pay for what he did to Merlin.
And that's the end of that chapter. Very long, very bromancy. Hopefully you all enjoyed. I'll have another chapter on Thursday or Sunday, depending on when I get around to posting. Have a great week.