Sorry for not posting on Thursday, but I figured you guys are spoiled anyways. Seriously, two updates a week? I figured I could miss one. Still, I wrote this chapter and am very proud of it. Things are wrapping up so be prepared.
Disclaimer: I had a dream where I owned Merlin once. Then I woke up.
"Merlin," a voice called out. Merlin groaned and tried to ignore it. His head was pounding, everywhere felt sore, and he was pretty sure he was dying. In short, Merlin just wanted to sleep.
"Don't interrupt him. He's resting," another voice scolded. Great, two visitors at once. Merlin had a feeling he wasn't going to be resting any time real soon.
"I'm not interrupting him. He's still asleep. I just need to talk with him," the fist voice snapped. There was something very familiar about the voices, though Merlin couldn't quite place it. It didn't sound like Arthur, Lancelot, or Gwaine. But maybe Merlin's brain just had to work through what it wanted before Merlin could focus on the voices and assign them a personality.
"Can't this wait until he's better. I mean, look at him. He's been through hell," the second voice snapped. It sounded like Arthur and Gwaine were here to visit him, but it still didn't sound like their voices. Merlin groaned and decided to see what these two wanted. He opened his eyes and discovered he was laying in what appeared to be a cloud. That was odd. He looked around and noticed that everything was white and foggy. But not the kind of foggy you get when you've just woken up after a night of drinking. This was like when Merlin and Will used to run around in the fog in Ealdor. They would play hide and seek in the forest and use the fog as their cover. Will usually pretended to be a king, Merlin would be his trusty court sorcerer. Together they would run through the fog, fight bandits, rescue princesses, and do other noble things. Merlin smiled at the memory. He still didn't have an answer as to who was talking, so he decided to get it. Merlin sat up and looked around, searching for the owners of the mysterious voices.
"Hello, my love." Merlin jumped and whipped around. His face broke into a smile.
"Freya?" he asked uncertainly. This would be the first time somebody who was dead had visited Merlin. Well, half-dead. But who's counting? Merlin wondered if he was at the Gates of Avalon. Perhaps he had really died. Freya smiled back.
"Yes, I'm here. And no, you're not dead," Freya said gently. Merlin didn't think it would be this hard to kill him. Maybe some of Leon's immortality had rubbed off on him. Before Merlin could answer, Freya turned around.
"Told you I could get him up," Freya laughed. Merlin's eyes focused on the two figures sitting next to her.
"Yes, yes. You've proved your point. Now let him rest," Will sighed, crossing his arms over his chest and pouting. Balinor laughed. Merlin smiled sadly. His father and friend were here with him. But Merlin wasn't dead. So why were they here?
"It's good to see you alive, my boy," Balinor said. He smiled, though it was sad. Merlin wondered what would warrant a visit from three of his dead loved ones. Surely something important had happened that Merlin needed to be aware of. Merlin could only guess that it was about Darian. Nothing else was going in in Camelot at the moment. At least nothing Merlin knew of.
"Listen, Merlin, we need to talk about Darian," Balinor said seriously.
"I still say it can wait," Will grumbled. Balinor shot his a glare but continued. Merlin was glad Will was still looking out for him, even in death. But whatever Balinor had to say probably needed to be known as soon as possible. And there really was no guarantee Merlin would be able to find his way back to the cloud to have this discussion again.
"I'm sorry, Merlin. I would like nothing more than to allow you to sleep and heal, but the threat to Camelot has yet to be destroyed," Balinor said urgently. Merlin understood what Balinor meant almost immediately.
"You mean Darian," Merlin groaned. Everyone nodded. Sure there were other threats to Camelot, Morgana and Morgause being the biggest, but Darian was the only one who was currently in Camelot.
"He's becoming more unstable. He might snap and kill Arthur if this continues for much longer," Freya explained. Merlin understood. He had noticed it himself, the way Darian was rarely able to control himself. It was odd, how much blood Darian was letting Merlin lose. If the man really wanted to drink it, should he be bottling it up or something? Something wasn't right with Darian. Perhaps after three hundred years of existence, the man finally snapped. His mind was not meant to be immortal. And that was the reason Darian was no longer in control. He had gone crazy with power and solitude. He wasn't a man any more. He was a shadow of a man. Merlin nodded his understanding before coming to a realization. One that made him angry.
"I can't move. I'm unconscious and chained to a wall," Merlin snapped. He really shouldn't have been upset with his friend, love, and father. He didn't get to see them any more. But they were falling into the same pattern all his other visitors had. Merlin knew what was coming.
"Merlin, you have to keep fighting. Arthur is still in danger," Will pleaded. Merlin decided to give the man a piece of his mind.
"I've tried to fight back. All it's gotten me was more injuries," Merlin snapped. Will shrank back at Merlin's words. Balinor wasn't backing down as easily.
"Listen, Merlin, you have to know something about Darian. His immortality comes at a price," Balinor explained. Merlin straightened up and turned to his father. This was new, no one had ever bothered giving him information on the situation before.
"It is very hard to kill him. He has the strength of ten men and the durability to rival a dragon's. A simple blow to the heart or the snap of a neck cannot kill Darian." Fantastic, just what Merlin needed. A speech that basically told him there was no point in even trying to fight back. Darian was indestructible. Balinor sensed this but continued to press forward with his speech.
"However, there is a way. Your blood is what has given him life. It is what has provided Darian with the means of his existence. That means your blood is the only thing that can bring about his death," Balinor finished. Merlin looked at him with a confused expression. It made sense what Balinor was saying, Merlin just didn't know what to do with this information.
"How am I supposed to kill him with my blood? Drown him in it?" Merlin snapped.
"I don't know, my son. I just know that you will figure something out," Balinor responded. Freya smiled encouragingly at him and patted his hand gently.
"We'll leave you now. You've got quite a lot to work through," Will said gently. He and the others began fading into the background. Merlin huffed in annoyance. He really wished someone would give him a straight answer every once in awhile. He did not enjoy having to work out everything on his own. Merlin decided that Will was right. He had to figure out a way to stop Darian before the man broke completely and went nuts. Merlin wondered how strong the man's spell was and how well it would hold up if Darian were to go bat shit crazy in front of all of Camelot. He resolved to never let that happen. Merlin would kill Darian before the man ever hurt another innocent person ever again. With that, Merlin closed his eyes and the world went dark.
oOoOoOo
Leon forced himself to relinquish his grip on the hilt of his sword. He couldn't give away the fact that he was no longer under Darian's spell. Leon wanted to kill Darian more than he had ever wanted to harm a man, but he still had a duty to protect Camelot, to protect Merlin. His job was probably the most important as it entailed being in the company of the enemy for as long as possible. Leon was a skilled warrior. He could interrogate people well. He was even good at dealing with trauma. But Leon wasn't sure he would be able to look the man in the eyes and smile. He didn't know if he could pretend as if everything was alright when he knew what Darian had done to Merlin. Leon forced his feelings out of his head. He couldn't think of Merlin as a friend, not if this was going to work. He needed to be emotionally distant if he was ever going to convince Darian that he, Sir Leon, was still in adoration of the man who was really a monster.
He turned to ensure that Lancelot and Elyan were still trailing behind him. The two men were just far enough away so that it didn't look suspicious. They appeared to be chatting idly about something, though Leon could tell it was just for show. A few servants bowed respectfully as Leon continued to traverse the corridors. He got to the wing Darian was staying in. Here it was much emptier. Leon wondered if Merlin's screams ever echoed off of the stone pillars. He shook that thought out of his head. It wasn't going to help Merlin if he were constantly trying to determine the events that took place. Merlin could fill in the blanks. However, he could only do that if he were still alive.
Leon prayed that they were early enough to ensure Darian hadn't been made aware of Merlin's absence. Last night, Darian and Uther dined together until the very early hours of the morning, so Leon was sure that Darian didn't have the energy to visit Merlin again. Still, he had to keep every possibility on the forefront until he was certain. Leon stopped in front of the large wooden doors. He saw some blood on the floor and quickly moved his cloak to cover it. He wondered if there were any other blood spots in the chambers. If there were, hopefully Darian didn't notice them. Leon turned and saw Lancelot and Elyan duck into an alcove and move a tapestry so they were hidden from sight. Once the tapestry had stopped moving and you could no longer tell it concealed two humans, it was time for the knight to get started. Leon stood up straighter and plastered a sickly-sweet smile onto his face. He tried to remember how he spoke to Darian when he was under the spell. He knew it would seem strange that he would be waking Darian up this early, but Leon was confident he could keep himself in Darian's good graces, at least until the spell on Uther was broken and Darian was executed. He rapped his knuckles on the door and stepped back. There was some cursing that could be heard from the other side. Leon winced as he heard something fall from the bed. He couldn't be too upset though. This man was the root of all evil in Leon's opinion. Leon mentally prepared himself to fight Darian's spell.
"I don't know how immune you are. I was fighting the effects for two days and even I wasn't able to completely throw it off until I saw Merlin," Arthur warned as he made his way down the corridor.
"I'll be fine, sire. Get to training," Leon commanded. Arthur had found excuses to trail beside Leon for almost the entire trip to Darian's room. He continually said how he had forgotten something or how he had another piece of advice. Leon continued to try and convince him to get to training. It was an annoying battle of wills and Leon was getting frustrated. He understood that Arthur was worried about Merlin and the rest of his men, but he had to understand that Leon was capable. Arthur had to understand this was the best way to keep Merlin and everyone else safe. Leon quickened his pace to try and leave Arthur behind, send a clear message that he was on a mission and had this handled. Arthur quickened his pace to keep up with Leon.
"Just be aware of any happy feelings that arise when Darian is around you," Arthur advised. Leon stopped and turned to Arthur. It was time to be blunt and forceful.
"I am a senior knight of Camelot. I am also good friends with Merlin. I will be able to judge when I am being taken over by the spell," Leon declared. Arthur snapped his mouth shut and nodded. Leon clapped a hand on Arthur's shoulder and gave him a reassuring smile.
"I will be fine. I will keep Darian from Merlin for as long as possible," Leon said gently. Arthur got the message and stepped back.
"Then I'll be off. Good luck, my friend," Arthur replied before nodding to Elyan and Lancelot and walking towards the training grounds. Leon turned to Elyan and Lancelot after Arthur had disappeared from sight.
"Ready?" he asked. The two other knights nodded and allowed Leon to lead the way to Darian's chambers.
Leon smile grew even larger as Darian opened the doors. He was pleased to see that the man looked like he was suffering from a bad hangover. Darian's hair was matted with sweat and dirt. He appeared to be wearing the same clothes as the previous evening. Darian looked like hell and Leon was delighted. His smile was more genuine than before, seeing his former friend in such a state of discomfort. Of course, the effects of being drunk last night would probably bring about some other pleasant consequences. Hopefully that meant Darian didn't know of Merlin's escape.
"Leon, what time is it?" Darian asked groggily, trying to focus on the knight. He was squinting and trying to filter some of the bright light coming through the corridor.
"Time to visit the lower town!" Leon cried out happily, stepping past Darian and into the room. Leon knew he was louder than strictly necessary, but it was well worth it to see Darian wince with pain.
"Why are you here?" Darian said a bit more forcefully this time, though he was still bleary eyed and fighting the effects of being drunk last night. Darian probably didn't want company, but Leon didn't care. His mission was to be Darian's company for the day, to keep him unaware of Merlin's disappearance. There was no way Leon would let the boy down. It was his mission to protect him.
"Because you're coming with me," Leon stated happily as he pulled out some clothing and tossed it to Darian. Darian caught it and yawned. Leon noticed that as the man became more awake, he was beginning to feel more at ease. It did feel nice when Leon didn't have to worry about Merlin. Surely letting Darian's spell affect him just a tad wouldn't hurt anyone. He had this thought for a brief moment before remembering how dangerous Darian was. He had to keep himself from falling into the trap. A good way to do that was to use Merlin. Leon forced his mind to focus on how damaged Merlin felt while Leon checked him over. He forced himself to remember how Gwaine curled around the boy in a protective manner, how Arthur had pleaded with them to remember what Merlin meant. This had the desired affect. Leon was able to keep the spell from affecting him. Within a few seconds, there was no longer a tugging sensation at the back of his mind, pulling him back to ignorance. Of course this meant that Leon would have to work harder to keep up a happy front. Leon forced a smile and waited for Darian to finish getting dressed. The man wasn't arguing with Leon yet.
"Why am I going with you?" Darian asked. Now that the spell on Leon was broken, the man could easily see Darian for who he really was. Arthur was right, Darian did seem colder and more imposing when you weren't forced to be happy. Leon was scared of the man and what he might do. His eyes weren't cold, like Arthur had described, but ablaze with a fierceness that made Leon shudder. Leon could tell the man was slowly disintegrating. Darian wouldn't be able to keep up this innocent front for long. The mask would fall and he would reveal his true colors, though Leon shuddered to think what that would mean for Merlin. He didn't know if the small group of knights would be enough to protect the boy, should Darian finally break and go on a rampage.
"You're going with me because the people love you. When they see me, all they perceive is a big scary knight. When they meet you, they see someone who is like them and kind," Leon stated. It wasn't a lie. People really did appreciate Darian's company. Darian was loved by everyone. To the people he appeared to be the perfect man, kind, compassionate, and strong. Leon just didn't mention how everyone was under a spell and forced to see Darian in that light.
"Can't we go later?" Darian grumbled. Leon grinned. Darian didn't seem suspicious of him yet.
"Nope. I have training later and I really want to be the one to take you around," Leon stated happily. Darian stared at the knight for several seconds before deciding that he wasn't getting out of this. Leon was always persistent when he wanted something. Darian sat down to put on his boot. His senses became a lot sharper as he thought he saw hate and fury flash through Leon's eyes. Could it be that the knight was no longer under Darian's spell? Darian would study the man's behavior when they were out in the village. He smiled good-naturedly and stood up straight. If the spell had broken on the idiot knight, then Darian would have to see what he was up to. Darian glanced towards the antechamber. He had a feeling his pet was no longer being housed there. Darian focused on Leon. He didn't seem much different; he still had that stupid smile on his face.
"Shall we be off?" Leon asked cheerfully, opening the door and leading Darian out of his chambers. Darian decided to put his theory to the test. Everyone should have forgotten about the boy by now.
"Tell me, have you seen Merlin around lately?" Darian asked. Leon's heart stopped for a few seconds. He covered his blunder.
"Who?" he asked. Arthur had mentioned that it sometimes took people awhile to remember Merlin. Leon saw Darian's smile stretch even wider as they continued down the corridor.
"No one important. I'm sure I'll see him later," Darian chuckled. Leon nodded and led the way out of the castle. The hairs on the back of his neck were standing at attention. Leon had to remember everything he was taught. He wouldn't allow Darian to go near Merlin.
Darian's instincts were also on edge as Leon led him out of the castle. He had passed Darian's test, but not before pausing a few seconds. One could attribute that to trying to remember something or someone, but Darian didn't think so. The way Leon held himself was stiff, and the fact that the knight never let Darian out of his line of sight was equally worrisome. Darian contended that Leon was no longer under his spell. And if Leon was no longer under Darian's spell, then Darian had a good idea who else was immune. It was time to do some damage control.
oOoOoOo
Lancelot and Elyan peered out from behind the tapestry to see Leon and Darian turn the corner. It was time to bring down the traitor once and for all.
"Ready for this?" Lancelot asked as he stepped out from their hiding place.
"As ready as I'll ever be," Elyan replied. The two men opened Darian's door and slipped inside. Despite the nerves that had accompanied Lancelot on the entire journey here, he was finding himself remarkably calm now. Perhaps it was because there was no turning back. Gwaine had Merlin, Leon had Darian, and Percival was getting Gaius. Now that everyone was doing something, it forced Lancelot to put aside his nerves and search the room. This was all for Merlin. Even though many innocent lives would be saved by Darian's death, Lancelot couldn't lie and say that they were the reason he was about to break into a guest's room and search it. Sure they were another reason to convict Darian, but right now Merlin was all that mattered. Looking at the determination in his friends' eyes told Lancelot that he was not alone in this thought.
"Arthur said that the evidence should be in the antechamber. He didn't find any in the main room," Lancelot said, sweeping over to the antechamber. Elyan peered around the room, deep in thought.
"Why do you suppose he took Merlin?" he wondered aloud. Lancelot's heart beat faster. He had an idea that it had something to do with Merlin's magic, but he wasn't comfortable with letting Elyan know that little detail. He wasn't entirely sure what Elyan's views on magic were, or how loyal he was to Arthur.
"Maybe he was just a victim of opportunity. And Darian probably underestimated the bond between him and Arthur," Lancelot lied. It wasn't really a lie as those were perfectly plausible reasons. But knowing Merlin, it probably had something to do with his magic. Elyan pursed his lips and nodded, though he didn't look entirely convince. Lancelot was slightly afraid that Elyan would keep questioning Lancelot until something slipped. Lancelot would never betray Merlin, but Elyan was a smart man and could probably tell that he wasn't giving his full and honest opinion. Lancelot decided to try and ignore Elyan and his questions. He opened the antechamber quietly and stepped inside.
"I think it's more than that. There's lots of victims Darian could have taken," Elyan said from outside the room. Lancelot didn't answer. Instead, he was trying not to gag on the stench of the room inside. How Arthur managed to stay in here for an extended period of time with Merlin being as injured as he was, Lancelot would never know. It was bad enough just being in the room without Merlin. Lancelot closed his eyes and leaned against the doorframe. He didn't think he had failed Merlin until now. He had promised himself that he would look after his friend this time around. Except he didn't. Lancelot and the others almost let Merlin go to his death. He couldn't believe that Merlin had been kept in here for two days. No wonder he was hallucinated. The room was cold and dark. Even just standing in the doorway Lancelot could feel a little piece of his soul die from the conditions of the room. His friend had almost died in here, believing that he was alone and unloved. Any doubts about what Arthur had said were now gone.
"Lancelot?" Elyan asked as he wandered into the room. He hadn't seen the room yet. He didn't know what Merlin had been through. But Elyan was about to realize just how much pain Merlin had been forced to endure. Elyan's face fell as he took in the room. There was a broken chair, its bits scattered about the room. The walls and floor were coated in blood. Some manacles lay on the ground, bits of skin and blood stuck on them. The sight was too much for Elyan to take in. He now realized why Lancelot had gone silent. You needed time to process this information. Elyan wondered how long Arthur stood at the door before going to help Merlin.
"Merlin was kept in here," Lancelot said quietly. Not really a question, more of a statement. Elyan nodded, closing his eyes and trying to block out the horrible sight.
"Let's get to work," he commanded, taking a deep breath. Elyan immediately regretted the decision as he gagged on the smell that enveloped the room. This was Merlin's burnt skin and blood they smelled. It was his sweat and tears that coated the room. Elyan swallowed and tried to focus on the task at hand. They didn't know how long Leon would be able to keep Darian so they had to work fast. Lancelot began picking through the artifacts in the room.
"Gods, look at these knives," he said sadly. His fingers lingered over the steel for a second, unwilling to touch the metal. Elyan stiffened beside Lancelot as he picked up a bloodied whip.
"Disgusting," he snarled, throwing the whip down onto the floor with a clatter. Lancelot continued to stare blankly at the tools that lined the table.
"It's different, seeing the tools that were used on Merlin," Lancelot said absentmindedly as his eyes fell on a hook swinging gently from the ceiling. Lancelot remembered the cuts on Merlin's wrist. He wondered how long Merlin had been forced to hang there. Did Darian ever let his friend down?
"He must have been in so much pain," Elyan breathed, massaging his temples and falling back into a warrior's mindset. Lancelot followed Elyan's example and quickly adjusted his thought pattern.
"We need to stop thinking like this. We need to find absolute proof that Darian has magic," Lancelot stated. He hoped that by affirming their mission, the two would be able to focus on it. It helped somewhat.
"What if Darian doesn't have magic?" Elyan asked. "What if he just uses trinkets and things he buys off of traders? If you know where to look, you can find some pretty dangerous stuff." Lancelot groaned. He didn't want it to come to that option, but he was sure that Elyan may have been telling some truth.
"Let's just make sure he is completely free of magic. Even a pendant will be enough to convict him," Lancelot said strongly. Elyan nodded and began digging through Darian's bag.
"He sure travels light," Elyan said after dumping the contents on the floor in frustration. He began to examine some of the contents. Lancelot paled as he laid eyes on thumbscrews, pliers, a hammer, and nails. He didn't want to know what Darian used those for. Luckily, they didn't appear to be used on Merlin.
"Does anyone else ever use this room?" Lancelot asked. He couldn't imagine it was easy to remove the bloodstains. Surely another visitor would have noticed the hook on the ceiling, or the runes that could be spotted at certain intervals around the room. Lancelot wondered what those did.
"Not that I know of. This room has always been set aside specifically for Darian," Elyan answered. He continued to examine the tools, trying to see if one of them had even a hint of magic.
"There's nothing in this bag. Just more things to torture someone with," Lancelot groaned. Elyan sat back on his heels and stared blankly at the pile of tools on the ground. He glowered at the bag, hating that it didn't provide the evidence needed to convict Darian, before coming to a realization.
"If I was a person who was using magic to torture and kill without suspicion, I wouldn't just put my stuff where anyone could find it," Elyan claimed. Lancelot looked up and quirked an eyebrow.
"What do you mean?" he asked as Elyan took up the bag and shook it. He bit his lip and turned his head so that an ear was pressed against the leather. Elyan looked rather ridiculous, shaking the bag while appearing to be listening for something. But Lancelot let him continue.
"I mean, he can explain most of this stuff as just necessities for a life on the road. Hell, I've had half of these things with me when I was traveling around. But if he were to use magic, he would want to hide it," Elyan explained. He turned the bag inside out and cried out in triumph as he discovered a hidden pocket.
"I knew it was still too heavy for an empty bag," Elyan said smugly as he pulled out a leather book. It was none too big, only about a hundred pages. But it had to be incriminating since Darian hid it. Lancelot was sure. Elyan flipped through the book, looking questioningly at it.
"Let me see," Lancelot implored, taking the book from Elyan and flipping it open. He didn't have a lot of experience with magic, but he had more than Elyan. Lancelot could tell what were words to magic spells and what were plain words. He gasped. Inside were step-by-step instructions on how to complete a spell. Lancelot read through them, his face becoming paler by the second.
"Elyan, Darian wasn't just torturing Merlin for fun. He was going to drink his blood," Lancelot gasped as he continued to read over the instructions. Elyan shook his sadly and his hands curled into fists.
"Does it say the spell?" Elyan asked, peering over Lancelot's shoulder.
"Yes. It has words of the Old Religion and even certain instructions on how to make the blood more potent," Lancelot answered. Elyan clenched his jaw and thought about the proof that they had found. Something didn't add up in Elyan's mind.
"But we can assume Darian's done this before. I mean, he's visited Camelot and citizens have disappeared. We can assume he's done this in other kingdoms. So why does he have an instruction book?" Elyan asked. Lancelot thought that was a very good question and flipped through the book. There had to be some other reason Darian kept this book. He found his answer on the tenth page.
"It appears he was writing down the names of the people he had killed, and how long they lasted," Lancelot gasped. He read over the scrawl and tried not to be sick. The way Darian talked about these people, like they were lambs and lovers.
This one was truly lovely. Her skin was soft and supple. The red blood that poured from her neck stained the dark ground below. I was excited to see that this was all for me, because of me. One taste and I was entranced. It would be hard to find one as innocent as this little lamb. Lancelot read aloud. Elyan continued to shake his head back and forth, refusing to believe that anyone could be so cruel. He shifted the bag and something hard hit his knee. Elyan picked up the bag and opened another pocket.
"Gods, there are more books," Elyan said as he pulled out some more journals. "This one doesn't even have instructions. Just names, dates, torture methods used, how they died. It's awful," Elyan said sadly. Lancelot looked at the other three books that Elyan had pulled out. He picked up one that looked to be the newest and flipped through it.
"I don't see Merlin's name anywhere," Lancelot said.
"He might have been waiting until he, you know, killed him," Elyan whispered. He was glad Darian hadn't written anything about Merlin. Elyan wasn't sure if he or Lancelot could handle reading about their friend in such a way.
"So many people," Lancelot said, closing his eyes. He was glad his friend did not become another name on the ledger. It was disturbing that Darian was able to kill hundreds without suspicion. Arthur had said it was because of the spell. But was it really? Surely they could not have been the first ones to break free from Darian. The more Lancelot thought about it, the more he realized that only Arthur had managed to break the enchantment, and that was probably only due to Merlin's magic. If Merlin hadn't had magic, he would have faded away. No one would ever remember him. Lancelot wondered if any part of him would have ever truly forgotten Merlin. He didn't want to believe it, but he knew that the answer was yes. Elyan saw Lancelot's face fall and knew what he was thinking about. He had been thinking the same things since Arthur had pulled back the curtain and revealed Merlin. But Elyan knew they couldn't sit here forever. They had their proof, now all they had to do was wait for the next step in their plan.
"We should get out of here and back to the prince's chambers. We need to prepare ourselves to confront Uther," Elyan said, gathering up the books and standing up.
"I'm going to make sure he burns," Lancelot spat as they made their way out of the antechamber and into the hallway.
"We all will," Elyan answered bitterly. The pair continued down the hall, clutching the precious evidence in their hands and praying that Merlin would still be safe.
oOoOoOo
Percival was pacing outside of Gaius' quarters, trying to work up the bravery to take the old man to his ward. Normally, he didn't fear Gaius. However this spell made people unpredictable. Arthur had warned them profusely about how Gaius might react to Merlin's name. He told Percival to give the man time to fight the spell. Gaius would be saying things he regretted, but Percival couldn't allow it to faze him. Merlin needed Gaius, but Gaius hated Merlin.
Percival knew he had to break the spell, but he was unsure of how to do it. Arthur worked through their minds, forced them to think about Merlin. Arthur had sat there and asked all of the right questions. He wouldn't allow the men to have a moment to gather their thoughts. Arthur was relentless and unwilling to let Darian back in for even a second. Percival didn't know if he had the strength to do that. Sure he was strong physically, but to do what Arthur did took determination and courage. Percival didn't know if he could. He wasn't one for confrontation. He preferred to be in the background, to provide silent support to whoever needed it most. But the prince was forcing Percival to use his compassion and break the curse. Arthur and Merlin were counting on him.
Percival sighed and stood up straight. It really was now or never, he needed Gaius to come with him immediately. Leon had looked worried when he was examining Merlin. He had said that the Arthur did everything he could, but certain injuries needed better treatment. Percival thought about how pale Merlin looked, how he struggled to breathe. It was clear that the boy was dying. Gaius would be able to save him, but only if the curse was broken. That's why Percival was at the door now, doing something he was uncomfortable with. It was for Merlin. Percival knocked on the door and waited for Gaius to allow him entrance.
"Come in," the physician's voice called out. Percival opened the door and walked in. He had to duck under the door, but once he was down the stairs, Percival stood up straight. He waited for Gaius to finish what he was working on before speaking.
"Sir Percival, what can I do for you?" Gaius asked, looking up from the potion he was brewing.
"I need you to come to the prince's chambers immediately. It's urgent," Percival stated strongly. Percival knew that the less information he gave, the better. It also helped that it was Arthur's chambers they were going to. Gaius wouldn't question too much if he believed the crown prince to be in danger.
"Is it Arthur? George warned me that he was catching a cold," Gaius sighed. "Let me get my bag," he said. Percival watched as the old man hobbled to the corner of the room and picked up a worn leather bag. Percival's eyes fell on the door just up the stairs. That was Merlin's room. He wondered if the boy would ever stay there again. Percival decided that he would do everything in his power to make sure Gaius remembered his ward, and remembered how much he loved him.
"Ready?" Gaius asked. Percival snapped out of his trance and nodded. He led the old physician to Arthur's room, praying that he could break the spell on the old man. It was for Merlin.
oOoOoOo
"It's like I was saying, Merlin, the girl was absolutely crazy," Gwaine chuckled quietly. He looked down at the sleeping boy in his arms to see if there was any sort of indication that Merlin was listening to him. Gwaine sighed when he saw that Merlin was just as unconscious as before. Gwaine's ears picked up the sound of distant footsteps and immediately he dropped into his warrior's mindset. As usual, whenever there were footsteps that came by the room, Gwaine would immediately be put on high alert. He shifted so that his body better shielded Merlin. Gwaine adjusted his hold on the boy so that Merlin was pressed tighter into his chest. His grip on his sword tightened and Gwaine adjusted so that he could easily stab an attacker. His ears strained to hear any noise. They were rewarded with what sounded like two sets of feet walking quickly along the floor.
"Please let it be Percival," Gwaine begged quietly as Merlin's breathing became more laborious. It was like a cycle. Ever few minutes Merlin's breathing would become more strained. And then it would even back out for a few more minutes. Gwaine was worried that one of his friend's ribs was poking the lung. He had heard of men whose lungs were punctured by the ribs, there was nothing anyone could do. The men just simply drowned in their own blood. Gwaine did not want that happening to Merlin. They were so close to being released from this nightmare. If Merlin died now, it would all be for nothing. He tensed as the echoing footsteps stopped right in front of the door. Gwaine held his breath. The handle turned and two people entered the room.
"Where is the prince?" Gaius' voice asked in an annoyed tone. It sounded as though Percival had managed to get Gaius here. Now all the man had to do was break the spell. Gwaine heard the door lock shut.
"Sir Percival, did you just lock us in?" Gaius' exasperated voice asked. Gwaine could also hear a slight hint of fear. He didn't blame Gaius. If someone Percival's size locked Gwaine in a room without explanation, he would be slightly afraid as well. It didn't matter that Percival was really kind and not very dangerous at all. It was still terrifying to be locked in a room with someone for no explainable reason.
"It has to be done, Gaius. I'm about to do something. It'll cause you a lot of pain but in the end, it will be worth it," Percival said gently. Gwaine thought that there was probably a better way to go about explaining this. But he wasn't out there trying to break a spell the group knew nothing about. He was behind a curtain, holding Merlin in his arms.
"What are you talking about? What's going on?" Gaius cried. Gaius was no longer calm or annoyed. He sounded frightened. Gwaine prayed Percival would hurry up. Frightened men tended to get desperate and do stupid and dangerous things. They couldn't risk hurting Merlin any more.
"I'm not going to hurt you. I need your help," Percival said calmly. Gwaine had no idea how the big guy was going to handle this. Arthur's way worked well with the knights, but no one really knew how Gaius and Merlin interacted outside of the watchful eyes of the king. That was where Arthur had the advantage. He knew how the members interacted with Merlin. He knew how Gwaine and Lancelot were overprotective. And how he was usually the one getting yelled at for hurting Merlin. Percival didn't have this luxury. He barely knew Gaius and that made it even more difficult for him to find a thread of evidence that would allow him to pull on until Darian's web unraveled. Still, Gwaine had faith in Percival. The man, though a giant, was gentle and caring. He could work his way through Gaius' thoughts and discover the one seed of evidence that would prove he still loved Merlin. Percival took a deep breath and Gwaine heard the scraping of chairs.
"Please, sit," Percival said. Gwaine tried to maneuver so that he could see from behind the curtain. He managed to pull it open slightly and saw Gaius' back to him. Gwaine's eyes then flickered towards Percival. The man gave Gwaine a small smile before turning back to Gaius.
"Gaius," Percival started gently, "I've only been in Camelot for a few months, but I have noticed things," Percival said. Gaius raised an eyebrow but made no motion to stop the knight. Gwaine's heart was pounding in his chest. The suspense was killing him and there was nothing Gwaine could do to speed the process along. He could only sit, wait, and listen.
"One of the things I've noticed is how you treat Merlin." Gaius was about to open his mouth in protest before Percival held up a hand.
"Please, let me finish. I need you to see this. You treat him like a son. You constantly worry about him and before every trip, you ask Lancelot to keep him safe." Gwaine listened to Percival make his case. He didn't know how this was going to help Gaius realize the truth. He just hoped Percival knew what he was doing. He also felt a pang of jealousy over the fact that Gaius trusted Lancelot with Merlin's safety more than Gwaine. He may have been a drunk, but he still cared about Merlin and could keep him safe. Gwaine looked down at the boy and decided that he would do whatever it took to earn Gaius' trust.
"Over the past few days, you've probably started to lose some of your memory. There are gaps where something feels like it's missing. When someone mention's Merlin, your immediate reaction is to insult him. But later, when you're alone with your thoughts, you try to think of why there's this feeling in your gut, like Merlin needs you. When you first get up in the morning, you feel like something isn't right. But as soon as you step out the door, the feeling goes away," Percival took a deep breath and tried to calm himself. His voice was thick with emotion and Gwaine wouldn't have been surprised to see tears springing in the man's eyes. It was then that Gwaine realized all of these words were true. This was how he had felt every day when Darian was here. Like something was wrong but he shouldn't worry about it. Like there was something calling for help in the back of his mind but Gwaine could never be bothered to listen to it. Percival was feeling it too, which meant Gaius was probably feeling it. It was starting to appear that Darian's spell was not as strong as everyone first imagined.
"You know something is wrong but every time you try and focus, there's something there that stops you. That feeling of unease is replaced with happiness. Gaius, this isn't normal," Percival pleaded. Gaius just sat there, silent. Gwaine wished he could see the old man's face to make sure Percival was reaching him, but there was no way Gwaine could ensure his friend's success without sacrificing his own mission.
"Gaius, you have to keep fighting this, you have to realize that there is something very evil in Camelot," Percival said, his voice breaking with every word. Gaius sat back.
"Merlin," Gaius whispered brokenly. It appeared that Percival had begun to chip down the walls that held in everyone's true emotions. Gwaine felt a pang of pity. He knew that everyone would be spending the rest of their lives trying to make up their neglect to Merlin. But for Gwaine, it would never be enough.
"Gaius?" Percival asked, leaning forward to study the man.
"I have such a headache," Gaius said, leaning forward and massaging his temples. Percival allowed the old man to rest, not wanting to push him too fast too soon.
"You're right. And that's what scares me," Gaius said after several minutes. "Something isn't right in Camelot."
"When I say Merlin, what is your response?" Percival asked carefully. Gaius sighed.
"He is like a son to me," Gaius whispered. Percival smiled and leaned back. Gwaine let out a breath or air. The spell on the physician was broken. But Percival wasn't out of the woods yet. He still needed Gaius to be aware of what Darian had done.
"Darian has placed a spell on Camelot that makes everyone love him. Merlin has gotten caught up in the middle," Percival said sadly. He stood up and made his way over to the alcove. Gwaine was surprised when Gaius didn't argue. Perhaps it was because the old man already knew what was coming. When Arthur had accused Darian, a small part of Gwaine knew what he said to be the truth, though he didn't want to believe it.
"We've taken care of the big stuff, but he still needs you," Percival said. He turned to Gaius, blocking Gwaine's view of the old man. Gwaine prepared himself for Gaius. Percival pulled back the curtains to reveal the two. Gaius stepped forward and took in the sight. Gwaine gave the old man a weak smile.
"Oh my boy, what have you done," Gaius said. Gwaine saw the old man quickly regain his composure and kneel down next to them.
"Sir Gwaine, you need to move so I can look at him," Gaius commanded gently. Gwaine didn't want to leave Merlin and looked up to Percival. Percival gave him a small, reassuring smile. Gwaine untangled himself from Merlin and stood up. The two stepped back and allowed Gaius to work with Merlin in peace.
"Good job," Gwaine complimented quietly. Percival blushed but said nothing. There was a small knock at the door.
"Gwaine, Percival, it's us," Elyan's voice whispered. Percival walked over to the door and unlocked it. Lancelot and Elyan stepped in.
"Do you have evidence?" Gwaine asked urgently. Lancelot nodded grimly.
"We found a spell book with step by step instructions and then three other books filled with names of what I assume were Darian's past victims," Elyan explained. He handed a book to Percival who immediately began to flip through it.
"There must be hundreds of victims," he breathed. Gwaine shook his head and turned back to Gaius.
"So you've managed to break the spell on Gaius?" Lancelot asked hopefully.
"Yes. Gaius, will Merlin be alright?" Percival asked. Gaius sighed.
"Honestly, he needs better care than I can give right now," Gaius answered with a shake of his head. Gwaine looked over to see Merlin's shirt removed. Gaius was now looking at the ribs.
"We need Darian out of the picture," Elyan spat. Gwaine couldn't agree more. Lancelot stepped over to the window and stared out on the ground below. His eyes widened and his face blanched. Lancelot's breathing rate increased and it was very clear that something was causing him to be afraid. Percival was the first to act.
"Lancelot, what is it?" Percival asked, stepping forward to see what had caused Lancelot's sudden change in behavior. Lancelot only managed one word.
"Darian."
oOoOoOo
Leon plastered another fake smile as he and Darian exited the butcher's place. It was getting exhausting, keeping up this persona the entire time. Leon understood why Darian needed a spell. He would have never been able to appear so happy without it looking ridiculous.
"He really is something. Great man!" Leon cried happily as he and Darian continued to the next stall. People continually came up to Darian to shake his hand. The gesture made Leon feel sick. They were treating him like a war hero, like a god. Leon wished he could shout at them and shake them until the spell was broken. Darian seemed to get more annoyed with ever step the pair took. Leon could tell the man was breaking. It was only a matter of time.
"Listen, Leon, I appreciate what you're trying to do. But I could use a break. Just let me go to my chambers and freshen up. It'll only take an hour," Darian begged. Leon knew exactly what Darian was planning, and he wouldn't let the man carry it out.
"Nonsense, lots to see! Come along!" Leon said happily, grabbing Darian's hand and dragging him to a tavern. Leon could tell Darian was getting frustrated, Leon didn't care. What mattered was the fact that he was keeping this man from Merlin. Although, Leon knew Darian was starting to suspect something was amiss. If Leon wasn't careful, he could find that the situation would go downhill quickly. Still, he splashed on a smile and continued to act as if Darian was a god and people should worship the ground he walked on. Leon's heart rate increased as he realized that Darian was beginning to lead him. Leon may have been in front of Darian, but the subtle way Darian's hand twitched made Leon aware that he was no longer in charge.
Darian was probably sure that Leon was immune and would now be acting to protect himself and his secret. Leon refused to go down without a fight. He wondered if it was still too early to grab his sword. Darian's hand tightened on his, telling Leon not to do anything. They rounded another corner and Leon was suddenly aware of how empty this one was. There was no one here. His senses went on high alert. Keep your eyes on the enemy at all times. Leon said to himself as he struggled to find an new position to see Darian in. Leon knew that Darian knew. And Darian knew that Leon knew. It was time to quit beating around the bush. Leon had to act and he had to act now. If he brought a bruised and possibly dead Darian in front of the king, well at least Merlin would be safe. Besides, Darian was going to die anyways. It might as well be by Leon's hand.
Before Leon could react, a belt latched around his neck and began to squeeze. Leon's eyes bulged as he wrenched his hand out of Darian's and clawed at the leather. Darian chuckled darkly behind him. Leon was aware that the man was keeping the belt loose enough so that Leon's windpipe wasn't crushed in the struggle. Leon threw his head back in an attempt to break Darian's nose. Sadly, the man was too far away. He cursed himself for not acting faster. He should have pulled his sword and killed Darian the moment they stepped in the alley. But now wasn't the time to think about what Leon could have done. Now Leon had to focus on escaping this alive.
"I know you have my lamb," Darian said. Leon could feel his breath ghost across his ear. Leon shuddered to think about Darian's nickname for Merlin. Leon struggled to kick and elbow his way out of Darian's grasp, but he couldn't.
"I should rephrase. You don't have my lamb, but you know where he is," Darian laughed. He pulled on the belt as Leon's legs gave out and he crashed to the ground. It felt like his knees had shattered on impact. Darian laughed some more while tears began to leak from Leon's eyes because of the pain and lack of air.
"You don't have to tell me. I know where he's at too," Darian gloated. Leon felt the man's face right next to his. It was uncomfortably close as Darian's lips brushed Leon's skin when he spoke. He didn't want to think about how this man had treated Merlin for two days. Leon cried out as he felt a foot connect with his ribcage.
"Did you think I wouldn't figure it out, that you weren't mine anymore. I knew as soon as you stepped into my door. And if you're immune, that means the idiot prince is immune along with the rest of your dirty peasant scum. And if they no longer believe in me, then my sweet boy is gone from my care," Darian snarled. Leon's ears were ringing and he couldn't focus too much on what Darian said. That didn't stop Darian from continuing to speak.
"I don't like it when my things are taken from me. I want his blood and I will have it. I will not be tempted only to never taste the forbidden fruit," Darian whispered. Leon's vision was starting to go fuzzy. He wondered if Darian was going to kill him, or use him as leverage against Arthur and the others.
"Don't worry, Sir Leon," Darian's voice whispered right next to Leon's ear again. Leon tried to ignore how close the man was, though it was difficult to ignore the finger that was brushing along Leon's collarbone lovingly. "The boy put up a fight. More of a fight than you at least." Darian laughed and before Leon could react, he was thrown against the wall. He gasped for air as he struggled to his feet. Leon's sword lay forgotten, too far for Leon to reach. Leon felt his hair being gripped and his face was slammed into the ground again. Everything went white for a few seconds before Leon's vision was restored. He heard Darian laugh above him as a foot connected with the side of his head and snapped it to the other side, effectively flipping Leon onto his back. Leon's last sight was a shadowy figure looming over him. He felt a foot slam down onto his ribcage, crushing some of the ribs with its weight. That was the last thing Leon remembered before the world went dark.
oOoOoOo
Arthur could help but be antsy as he and his father walked through the lower town. He just wanted to get back to Merlin and make sure his friend was alright. Training had gone smoothly and finished on time. Arthur was heading back to his chambers when he ran into his father. Naturally, Uther's good mood meant that Arthur had to do some sort of bonding thing with him. This time, it was patrolling the lower town. Arthur kept an eye out for Darian and Leon but nowhere did he see his friend and enemy. This worried Arthur greatly. If Darian had somehow managed to lose Leon, that mean Merlin was in danger and no one would be able to warn him. Leon was right. Darian would come looking for Merlin. It wouldn't take him long to figure out where he was.
Arthur sighed and attempted to drone out his father. He never new the man could be so talkative. They were walking past the butcher shop when Arthur noticed something shiny coming out of an alleyway. He cocked his head to the side and went over.
"Arthur, what are you doing?" Uther laughed as he followed his son. Uther laughed a lot these days. It wasn't natural for him, Arthur decided. He got to the alleyway and gasped. There was a blanket thrown haphazardly over a body, a sword lying not far from where the body was place. Someone obviously was in a hurry and didn't hide the body very well. Arthur could see a hand poking out from underneath the blanket, and some hair. Arthur's hands shook as he recognized that hair.
"What the blazes?" Uther cried. Arthur ran and pulled the blanket off. His worst fears were confirmed when Leon's face was revealed.
"No, no, no, no!" Arthur cried as he quickly checked for a pulse. It didn't escape him how Leon's neck was bruised, or how the side of his face was bleeding profusely. Leon had been badly beaten. Arthur let out a sigh of relief when he felt Leon's pulse from beneath his fingers.
"We must get the guards!" Uther growled. Arthur shook Leon gently, trying to get the knight to wake up. When Leon wouldn't wake, Arthur resorted to Merlin's favorite technique, the wake up slap. Arthur's hand slapped Leon and the knight's eyes fluttered open. Leon blinked at Arthur before sitting up quickly.
"Darian's gone after Merlin!" he cried out, attempting to stand. His voice was rough from the stress placed on his vocal chords in the fight.
"You can't go after him, you're hurt!" Arthur said. Uther stared at Leon, trying to decide if he trusted his senior knight or not. Uther couldn't comprehend why Darian would hurt Leon. Leon must have done something to provoke the man, but Uther couldn't figure out what that might have been. He trusted Leon with his life, and the life of his son. Surely Darian wouldn't have attacked him like this.
"It's my fault I let that monster get the drop on me. You can't stop me. Come on. We don't have a lot of time!" Leon snapped before picking up his sword and taking off towards the palace. Arthur quickly followed him. He wasn't sure if his father was following them or not. And Arthur really didn't care. Right now, Merlin was all that mattered. Arthur silently prayed that they would get there in time.
Yay! Another chapter finished. I'm not sure how much Leon whump there is out there, so I wrote some in. It's really not fair for Merlin to be the only victim in this story. Have a great weekend.