III: Being My Courageous Hero
Princess Clarissa sits in her Magic room with Merlin as he studies his spellbook while she prepares potions. "This is so strange; I never thought I'd be studying magic with a Princess." He remarks as he looks up and watches as she seamlessly preps the potion with ease. "How are you so good at this?"
"I was taught by my Mama; she was a powerful Witch." She tells him and stops her eyes flaring gold, the small cauldron bursting into flames; Merlin jumps in his seat in shock and watches as she waves her hand up, the flame following, as it disappears and a single flicker comes towards her. "My Grandmama was a High Priestess of the Old Religion, she fell in love with my Grandpapa, King Killian Lovechild, he found her in the forest, he grew to love her. She was cursed by her fellow High Priestesses when she left with him."
"What happened?" He asks her, enjoying her tale.
"She turned into a flower, but my Grandpapa wouldn't leave her; he vowed to set her free, it took five years, but he did it." She tells him, and he lets out a sigh of relief.
"So, how'd he do it?" He asks her with intrigue.
"My Papa told me he found a cave, but he couldn't remember where it was, and he found the answer to the curse." She tells him, and he nods.
"Sounds terrible to be stripped away from the one you love." He muses to himself.
"It is," She agrees, thinking of her parents.
~ BEWITCHING ~
In a shady dark shop within the Western Isles, a tall shady-looking man walks through the narrow shop heading towards the back to the merchant, Devlin, who stands behind the counter. "I understand you have a shield for me." The man, known as Valiant, questions the merchant, who motions to come around the back. They both walk over to the side, away from prying eyes as Devlin gets to order for the shady Knight, holding up a yellow shield with three serpents interlocked as the sigil of his Lord.
"With your swordcraft and this shield, I guarantee you will win," Devlin assures him.
"Show me how it works," Valiant orders him.
"Certainly," Devlin leans closer to the shield. "Tharanai im bis entra ofra honra stolle." He hisses the incantation, awakening the serpents; they give a fierce hiss as they slither out of the shield. Valiant steps back as they move towards him. "When you're competing in the tournament, you pin your opponent under the shield, a snake strike. Your opponent will be paralysed." He explains, demonstrating, but Valiant doesn't pay him much attention as he watches the snakes, careful not to get bitten as Devlin hands over the shield. "The snakes are now under your command. They will do anything you tell them to do.
"Anything?" He asks.
"Just say the word," He tells him, and Valiant looks at him, Devlin laughing darkly, Valiant joining in.
"Kill him," He orders, and one of the snakes strikes out towards the merchant, biting into his neck, sending him to the floor, and he walks away.
~ BEWITCHING ~
Valiant dressed in his mustard-yellow armour approaches Camelot on his night-black steed and comes to a stop at the registration table for the upcoming tournament. "Knight Valiant of the Western Isles. I'm here for the tournament." He announces as he places his helmet and seal onto the table.
"Welcome to Camelot," The Steward greets him, writing down his name with a smile, taking the seal.
~ BEWITCHING ~
Down outside the castle ramparts, Arthur stands in his standard armour with no helmet, while Merlin wears some armour with a helmet and shield. "Ready?" The Prince asks his manservant as he swings his sword around, facing away from him.
"Would it make any difference if I said no?" The Warlock asks him as he places the helmet on.
"Not really," Arthur tells him, facing him and Merlin draws his sword clumsily, and Arthur goes into an attack. "Body," He strikes him. "Shield," He hits the shield protecting the Warlock. "Body," He goes for it again. "Shield," They clash.
"Shield," Merlin repeats.
"Head," Arthur says, surprising the Warlock.
"Head?" He questions, not protecting himself, and Arthur smacks his sword down on Merlin's helmet. "Ow!" He cradles his sore head and moves away while Arthur stands, growing impatient with him.
"Come on, Merlin. You're not even trying." He complains and taps Merlin on the back with his sword.
"I know, ah!" He complains, turning back around to face the Prince.
"Once more," The blond tells him.
"Oh, no," He groans.
"To the left," He strikes with his sword; Merlin tries to keep up. "To the right. And left. Head," He hits him again on the side of his helmet, and Merlin lets out a groan of pain, the ringing in his ears growing worse. "Come on, Merlin! I've got a tournament to win." He follows after his manservant as he walks around back to face him.
"Can we stop now, please?" He begs the Prince, who answers by raising his sword and strikes again. "Ow!" Merlin yelps as Arthur continues to strike.
"Shield. Body. Shield," Arthur announces as he takes each strike.
"Shield. Ah." Merlin tries to keep up, but the blond goes too fast for the novice, and Arthur strikes him on the top of the helmet. "Ow," He says weakly and topples over onto his back; the helmet rolls off as he huffs out a breath of air.
"You're braver than you look," Arthur compliments him as he stands over him. "Most servants collapse after the first blow."
"Is it over?" The Warlock asks as he tries to get back up.
"That was just the warm-up," Arthur teases him and gets out his mace from his side. "How's your mace work coming along?" He asks as he swings it over his head, wanting to hurt the dark-haired man, who keeps spending time with Princess Clarissa.
"Artie, that's enough," She makes her appearance; Merlin lets out a sigh of relief and turns to see her in armour. "I thought you were sparing with me?" She asks him.
"I was like I said, this was just a warm-up." He replies, and Merlin lies on the grass, unable to move, watching the two spar with ease.
~ BEWITCHING ~
Clarissa walks into her room to see Lucy making her bed, humming to herself with a smile; the Princess smiles, glad to see her friend happy as she takes off her armour, startling the blond. "Sorry, continue, it was nice," She smiles, and Lucy helps her take off the armour.
"Thank you, Clarry. Did you have fun with Arthur?" She asks with a smirk, making the Princess blush.
"It was nice; Merlin was there," She says and sees the blush on her maid's cheeks.
"I see. Did you beat Arthur again?" She asks, and Clarissa chuckles, nodding.
"I'm afraid so," She says.
~ BEWITCHING ~
In the Court Physician's room, Merlin makes it back still in his armour, though he tries to loosen it as he walks into the room; Gaius watches him with a chuckle. "So, how was your first day as Arthur's servant?" He asks, still chuckling, and Merlin taps the side of his head.
"Do you hear clanging?" He asks as an answer and takes off the rest of his armour, sitting down at the table, and Gaius walks over, starting to massage Merlin's sore shoulders.
"Ah! It was horrible. Ahh, and I've still got to learn all about tournament etiquette by the morning." He complains as he feels relief from the massage of his sore muscles. "Onhrine achtung bregdan." Merlin recites the incantation; the book on the other side of the table slides towards him and flips open to the page, the other page flying open.
"Oi!" Gaius snaps and slaps the back of Merlin's head, who yelps in pain. "What've I told you about using like this?"
"If I could actually feel my arms, I'd pick up the book myself," Merlin argues.
"Never mind your arms. What do I do if you get caught?" He points out, and Merlin turns his head.
"What would you do?" He asks, wondering also.
"Well, you just make sure it doesn't happen, for both our sakes." He tells him, not answering and continues treating Merlin's sore muscles.
"Ah! I save Arthur from being killed, and I end up as a servant. How is that fair?" He questions, feeling his muscles starting to relax.
"I'm not sure fairness comes into it. You never know; it might be fun." He tries to cheer up the young Warlock, earning a scoff from Merlin.
"You think mucking out Arthur's horses is going to be fun? You should hear my list of duties." He groans, thinking of everything he has to do.
"We all have our duties. Even Arthur," Gaius tells him, thinking of the secret betrothal between Princess Clarissa and Prince Arthur, set into motion since they were born.
"It must be so tough for him with all the girls and the glory," Merlin says with an attitude.
"He is a future king. People expect so much of him. He's under a lot of pressure." Gaius points out as he clicks Merlin's shoulder.
"Ah! That makes two of us." He groans and looks back at his guardian.
~ BEWITCHING ~
Merlin walks through the castle's halls with Arthur's armour in his arms as he heads for Lucy's room as she agrees to help him prepare. He hurries, excited to see the beautiful blond again; he knocks on her door, she opens it within seconds, smiling at him, letting him into the room.
~ BEWITCHING ~
Lucy places the armour onto Merlin as she goes over slowly for him; seeing he's still struggling, she goes over it again. "So, you've got voiders on the arms," She reminds him as she places her hand on the piece of armour, covering his arm, he nods along, and she spins him a little to face him. "The hauberk goes over your chest," She places her hands on his chest.
"Chest, arms, chest." He repeats as he taps on them, memorising them, and she walks over to the table, picking up the helmet.
"I guess you know what to do with the helmet." She teases him, and he takes it from her.
"Erm, yeah. Yeah, that was the only bit I'd figured out." He laughs as she giggles; he smiles wide, glad to make her giggle and placing the helmet on. "How come you're so much better at this than me?" He asks her.
"My father is a Knight, I used to help him, and I help Clarry from time to time." She tells him. "I know pretty much everything there is to know about armour, which sounds really sad."
"No, it's brilliant!" He argues, and she smiles at him, glad to hear it.
"Thanks," She smiles, moving a strand of hair out of her face.
~ BEWITCHING ~
On the training grounds, every knight from the realm moves around the tent set up to house them during the tournament; Merlin stands with Arthur as he struggles with the vambrace on the Prince's lower arm. "You do know the tournament starts today?" Arthur snaps at his manservant.
"Yes, Sire," Merlin grins as he fixes the buckle, making sure it's not loose. "You nervous?"
"I don't get nervous," Arthur tells him, gritting his head.
"Really? I thought everyone got nervous," Merlin tries making conversation but just ends up annoying the Prince.
"Will you shut up!" He snaps at him, and the Warlock grabs his cape, tying it on, and hands him his helmet.
"Great, yeah. I think you're all set," He marvels at his job well done.
"Aren't you forgetting something?" He questions, and Merlin shakes his head. "My sword," He emphasises.
"Oh, yeah. Yeah, sorry. Guess, uh, you'll be needing that." Merlin jokes and grabs Arthur's sword from the rack and hands it to the annoyed Prince, who grabs it marching off. "That went well," He sighs, feeling slightly proud of himself.
~ BEWITCHING ~
Gwen walks with Lucy into the stands for the tournament as Morgana and Clarissa join them in the stands, sitting excitedly as the competitors enter the arena; even Merlin sneaks a peek around the entrance to watch as Uther struts past the front line of knights. "Knights of the realm, it's a great honour to welcome you to a tournament at Camelot. Over the next three days, you will come to put your bravery to the test, your skills as warriors, and of course, to challenge the reigning champion, my son, Prince Arthur. Only one can have the honour of being crowned champion, and he will receive a prize of 1,000 gold pieces." Uther announces to the crowd and knights as one of the stewards opens a large box revealing the money. "It is in combat that we learn a knight's true nature, whether he is indeed a warrior or a coward. The tournament begins!" He grins, and the crowd cheers as the knights' exit; Utherena, Uther stops Arthur before he goes to sit in his seat in the stands. "I trust you will make me proud," He says, making his son feel a huge weight on his shoulders. Clarissa looks in worry at Arthur, seeing the nervous look on his face. Uther slaps his son's back and walks away, leaving as two guards take the two remaining competitors' capes and place their helmets on; the crowd cheers as the fight begins. The two knights clash their swords; the fight seems neck and neck as everyone watches, cheering them on, though, for a moment, it looks like Arthur is going to lose and ducks out of the way, gaining the upper hand.
"Yeah! Come on!" Merlin cheers from his place hidden and the knights' fight; Arthur elbows his opponent in the face, knocking him down, his helmet falling off as he crashes to the floor, and the crowd grows wild for their Prince. "Yeah!"
"Yes!" Clarissa cheers, and the girls look at her, making her blush. "Shut up," She whispers, fighting the blush. The fights continue with more knights fighting each other, everyone enjoying the entertainment, though already through the rounds, more knights lose.
~ BEWITCHING ~
Arthur and Merlin watch Knight Valiant fighting in the arena, his fierce fighting style impressing most who watch. "Knight Valiant looks pretty handy with a sword," Merlin comments as they watch Valiant embracing the cheers from the crowd at his victory and walks out of the arena to his tent and sees Arthur stepping over.
"May I offer my congratulations on your victories today?" Valiant says.
"Likewise," Arthur replies.
"I hope to see you at the reception this evening." Valiant comments and leaves with his servant.
"Creep," Merlin mutters, and Arthur snorts in agreement, Merlin grins along with a snort at their agreement, but Arthur snaps out of it.
"Uh, for tomorrow, you need to repair my shield, wash my tunic, clean my boots, sharpen my sword, and polish my chainmail." Arthur gives him the list of chores as he walks away, leaving a disgruntled manservant.
~ BEWITCHING ~
Merlin lies on his bed as he reads his magic book while the entire of Arthur's list of chores magically do themselves; when Gaius walks into the room unannounced, the objects all dropping to the floor. "Are you using magic again?" Gaius asks him in outrage.
"No," Merlin answers with a lie.
"What's all this, then?" He asks as he points down to the floor littered with the objects that were magically floating in the air moments before, and Merlin shrugs his shoulders, acting clueless.
"I just came to tell you that supper's ready," He tells him and walks out of the room; Merlin lets out a sigh of relief, though he knows he didn't get away with it quite.
~ BEWITCHING ~
In the Throne room, the knights from the tournament make a line as they meet with King Uther, Princess Clarissa and Lady Morgana at the front with Lucy and Gwen behind them and the council to Uther's left. "Knight Valiant of the Western Isles, My Lord." He introduces himself, Morgana looking back at Gwen with a flirty smile at the handsome knight in front of them, Clarissa nudging her friend with her elbow.
"I saw you fighting today. You have a very aggressive style." Uther comments.
"Well, as My Lord said, "To lose is to be disgraced."" Valiant quotes, and Uther places his hand on his shoulder.
"I couldn't agree more. Knight Valiant, my I present Princess Clarissa and Lady Morgana, my wards." He says, turning to face the two dark-haired beauties standing next to him. Valiant bows and kissing Clarissa's hand; she fights a cringe as he does the same with Morgana, who enjoys the attention, though Arthur is biting the inside of his cheek at the Knight, touching Clarissa.
"Your Highness, My Lady," He greets both women.
"I saw you competing today," Morgana says, trying to make a conversation, Clarissa rolling her eyes, but Arthur stops a smile as he notices.
"I saw you watching. I understand the tournament champion has the honour of escorting either Her Highness or My Lady to the feast." He questions, eyeing Morgana, who smiles with glee.
"That's correct," She smiles flirtatiously.
"Then I will give everything to win the tournament." He promises her, and Morgana smiles dreamily at him with a nod, and he nods back.
"My Lady, Your Highness," He says, walking away shaking hands with the other knights, Morgana watching him with interest as more knights introduce themselves to the king and his wards; when Arthur reaches the front of the line, bowing to his father.
"Arthur," Uther says with little interest.
"Father," He returns and steps in front of Clarissa, seeing Morgana watching Valiant interacting with the other knights.
"They all seem rather impressed by Knight Valiant." Morgana comments, trying to strike jealousy in the Prince for Clarissa.
"They're not the only ones," He remarks, looking at her
"You're not jealous, are you?" She asks him.
"I don't see there's anything to be jealous of." He tells her, seeing Clarissa's earlier disinterest in the knight, and he goes to walk over, but Clarissa holds onto his arm.
"You beat him, I mean it, Artie," She tells him, and he smiles at her, nodding before walking over to the other knights.
"Could Arthur be any more annoying?" Morgana rolls her eyes. "I so hope Knight Valiant wins the tournament."
"You don't really mean that," Gwen shakes her head and sees the upset look on the Princess' face.
"Yes, I do," Morgana argues lightly.
"Arthur will win," Clarissa tells them and looks over at the blond with a smile.
~ BEWITCHING ~
Princess Clarissa walks behind her screen as Lucy helps her get dressed for the day, picking out another blue dress. "Actually, could you find me a red one?" The Princess asks her maid, who smiles. "Don't start," She groans.
"I wasn't going to," She laughs as she gets out a red dress and cloak, helping the brunette get dressed. "I think it's sweet, showing your support for the Prince." She smiles as she fastens the corset.
~ BEWITCHING ~
Merlin walks into the castle armoury to pick up Arthur's armour for the tournament when he hears a low hissing sound. "Hello?" He calls out, looking around. "Is there someone there?" He doesn't get a reply and looks over at Valiant's shield; seeing one of the snakes' eyes blink, he moves closer, about to touch the shield when someone pulls out their sword, placing it at his chest, he carefully stands.
"Can I help you with something, boy?" Valiant asks him.
"Nope. I'm good," Merlin chuckles nervously. "I, I was just...I was, erm, gathering my master's armour." He says.
"Then you'd best be on your way," Valiant tells him.
"Right, yeah. No problem," He rushes to pick up Arthur's armour and stumbles on his way out, Valiant watching after him, growing suspicious.
~ BEWITCHING ~
Merlin walks into Arthur's chambers, laying out the armour on the table; as Arthur enters, dressed, looking at the armour, slightly impressed. "You did all this on your own?" He asks his manservant.
"Yes, Sire," He replies, embellishing a little.
"Now, let's see if you can get me into it without forgetting anything," Arthur says, and Merlin starts with the chainmail, working his way through correctly, and he finally hands him his helmet. "That was much better. Not that it could have gotten any worse." He somewhat compliments the Warlock.
"I'm a fast learner," Merlin tells him.
"I hope, for your sake, that's true," He says and walks off, heading for the tournament grounds.
"Good luck," Merlin says, following after him.
~ BEWITCHING ~
Arthur walks into the tournament arena, acknowledging the crowd; he stops for a second, seeing Clarissa in red; he can't help the smile on his face as he waves to the crowd, who cheer for him, and Merlin watches from the entrance as Gaius joins him. "Is it my imagination, or are you beginning to enjoy yourself?" He questions the Warlock.
"It…" He sighs, trying to find the words. "It isn't totally horrible all the time," He replies as he watches Arthur fight his opponent; Gaius smiles as they watch. "Yes!" He cheers for his master, clapping enthusiastically as Arthur wins his fight. Everyone watches as Valiant fights with Sir Ewan; he knocks him down onto the ground, his helmet rolling off, Valiant pins him down with his shield, blocking everyone's view.
"Strike him," Valiant orders the serpents on his shield; one slithers out of the shield. "Strike him!" He orders again; the serpent bites Sir Ewan, the poison working fast. He lies on the ground, and Valiant strikes him before standing up the crowd cheering. Arthur and Merlin watch as Sir Ewan lies on the ground unmoving.
"I think he's badly hurt," Merlin comments, and Gaius walks into the arena with his medical bag.
~ BEWITCHING ~
Merlin enters Gaius' chambers, putting down Arthur's armour; he places it down on the table before walking over to Gaius and Sir Ewan, who lies on the cot. "How is he?" Merlin asks his guardian.
"It's most odd. Look at this," He instructs and shows two small puncture holes in the left side of Sir Ewan's neck. "See these two small wounds. Looks like a snake bite."
"How could he've been bitten by a snake?" The Warlock questions. "He was injured in the sword fight."
"But the symptoms are consistent with poisoning: slow pulse, fever, paralysis." Gaius points out.
"Can you heal him?" He asks.
"Well, if it is a snake bite, I'll have to extract venom from the snake that bit him to make an antidote." He informs him, though he thinks of the powerful Witch living in the castle.
"What happens if he doesn't get the antidote?" Merlin asks him, worried for the man lying on the cot.
"Then I'm afraid there's nothing more I can do for him. He's going to die," Gaius tells him.
"He was fighting Knight Valiant," Merlin mutters to himself softly.
"What's that?" Gaius asks, not hearing him.
"Nothing," Merlin says as he walks out of the room. "Oh, Rissa, I mean, Princess," He stutters, seeing the Princess standing at the door.
"It's okay, Merlin, it's good to see you, do you mind?" She questions, and he smiles, nodding, stepping aside, letting her into the room. "How is he?" She asks Gaius as she walks over to the cot.
"Not good, my dear," He answers.
~ BEWITCHING ~
In the guest chambers of the castle, Knight Valiant walks through the Red Ribbon Chamber, and Merlin spies on him from around the corner, following him towards his guest quarters, watching from the ajar door to see the knight pull out a mouse from a cage. "Dinner time," He announces, holding the struggling creature, and the snakes slither out from the shield, trying to take a bite from the frightened mouse. Merlin scurries away but knocks into the door, creating a noise; Valiant hears him and takes out his sword, following after him; Merlin hides in the alcove of the corridor as Valiant looks through the doorway, not seeing anyone, giving up and heading back to his room.
~ BEWITCHING ~
Merlin makes it back to Gaius' chambers to see Clarissa sitting on the stool next to the cot, her hand over the neck wound. "Ge hailige," She casts the spell, but it doesn't seem to work.
"I've seen one of the snakes on Valiant's shield come alive. He's using magic," Merlin announces as he walks inside.
"Are you sure?" Gaius asks him.
"The snake ate a mouse - one swallow, straight down. Sir Ewan was fighting Valiant when he collapsed. It must've been one of the snakes from the shield. I have to tell Arthur," Merlin informs them and goes to leave.
"Is there any chance you might be mistaken?" Gaius asks him.
"I know magic when I see it," He reasons.
"Perhaps, but have you any proof?" He asks the Warlock.
"Don't you believe me?" He asks his guardian.
"I fear you'll land yourself in trouble. How will you explain why you were in Valiant's chambers?" He questions, worried for the boy.
"What does that matter? He's using magic to cheat in the tournament!" Merlin argues.
"But you can't go accusing a knight of using magic without proof." He warns him. "The King would never accept the word of a servant over the word of a knight."
"What? So what I say doesn't count for anything?" He asks, hating the way things work.
"I'm afraid it counts for very little as far as the King is concerned. That's the way it is." Gaius tells him, and Merlin, feeling hurt, walks away to clear his head.
"He's not lying," Clarissa tells the physician, who looks over at her.
"What is it, my dear?" He asks her, and she shows him the puncture wounds still on Sir Ewan's neck.
"The poison has magic laced within; I can't heal him," She tells him, and he frowns. "Meaning Sir Ewan doesn't have much time."
~ BEWITCHING ~
The next day at the tournament ground, Merlin helps Arthur into his armour as they watch a servant use a step ladder to put on the helmet of Arthur's next opponent. "You're telling me you've got to fight that?" Merlin asks the Prince.
"Yes, and he's strong as a bear. But he's slow," He replies.
"Ah, and you're fast," Merlin slimes.
"Exactly," He replies as Merlin finishes, and Arthur walks off into the arena with his opponent; Clarissa watches nervously as they standoff against each other.
"You're not worried, are you?" Gwen asks the Princess.
"No," She replies, but the others all know it's a lie as the two begin to fight. Merlin watches Valiant put down his shield for a second when Gaius approaches him.
"How're you getting on?" Gaius tries to make conversation.
"Fine. Just doing my job. Minding my own business," Merlin replies, a little snappy, and Arthur fights the bear knight, knocking him to the floor, winning, and Valiant also wins his next match; Clarissa watches on in fear at the thought of losing Arthur as Gaius checks on the fallen knight. Merlin looks at the final brackets with Gaius. "Valiant's going to fight Arthur in the final. He'll use the shield to kill him." He points out his worry for the Prince.
~ BEWITCHING ~
Merlin sits by Sir Ewan's sickbed in Gaius' chambers as the court physician enters the room. "Merlin, about what I said yesterday…." Gaius says as he walks over to the boy. "Look, Uther wouldn't really listen to you or men, but you are right. We can't let Valiant get away with this." He agrees,
"But we don't have any proof," Merlin points out.
"Well, if we could cure Ewan, he could tell the King that Valiant was using magic. The King would believe another knight. But how do we get the antidote, seeing as Princess Clarissa believes the poison is laced with magic...Well, that's another matter." He tells him, and Merlin comes up with an idea, getting up from his chair leaving the room. "Merlin?"
~ BEWITCHING ~
Princess Clarissa sits in her room as Lucy helps her prepare for the night; she is worried about Arthur at her vanity. "What's wrong, Clarry?" Lucy asks her, seeing the vacant look on her face.
"It's Valiant; Merlin said he thinks he's using magic to cheat." She replies, and Lucy stops, looking at the Princess.
"Merlin? What would he know about magic?" She asks her.
"I forgot to tell you, Merlin is a Warlock; he's completely new to magic, but he was born with it, like me. But it's not my secret to tell; I think he should be the one to tell you. I'm just worried about Arthur; he'll be fighting Valiant tomorrow; what if he uses his snakes on that horrible shield of his to poison Arthur."
"Have you told him, Arthur, I mean?" Lucy asks, shaking herself out of her shock.
"Merlin will," She tells her and looks at her friend. "I'm sorry to dump all of this on you; it's not fair."
"Clarry, it's okay, I know how hard it is to hide all of this from almost everyone we know, but you don't have to with some of us." She tells her with a kind smile.
"I know; that's why you're my best friend." She hugs her close.
~ BEWITCHING ~
The knights in the tournament all sit around the table in the dining hall, the knights all toasting to Valiant, which annoys Arthur, who wants out of the room. "So, Valiant, do you think you stand a chance of defeating my son?" Uther asks the knight in yellow.
"He is a great warrior, My Lord. I do hope to be a worthy opponent." He replies, and Merlin peeks through the door to see them.
"You should stay in Camelot after the tournament. I could do with more knights like you." Uther tells him, and Arthur rolls his eyes; Valiant sees the gesture.
"I'd be honoured, My Lord." He replies with a smirk.
~ BEWITCHING ~
Merlin walks down to Valian's guest chambers; seeing the door is locked, he recites a spell he learnt from Clarissa to unlock the door. He steps inside the room, taking a sword from the rack, approaching the shield. He turns to the door as he hears someone approaching; one of the snakes slithers out of the shield, poising to strike the Warlock. Merlin sees the shadow of the snake on the wall; he turns, slicing the head off the snake. The other snakes come out in retaliation, but Merlin drops the sword, grabbing the first snakehead off the floor and runs out of the room.
~ BEWITCHING ~
Merlin bursts into Gaius' chambers, giving the court physician the snake's head, and he drains the venom from the head into a jar. "I'll get started preparing the antidote," Gaius informs Merlin.
"I'm going to tell Arthur," Merlin announces.
"You'll need this," Gaius tells him and hands over the snakehead. "And Merlin, what you did was very brave." He smiles back at his guardian before leaving.
~ BEWITCHING ~
When Merlin walks in, Arthur dines in his chambers, placing the snakehead on the table, explaining the situation. "You? You chopped its head off?" Arthur questions as he looks at it.
"Ewan was bitten by a snake from the shield when he was fighting Valiant. You can talk to Gaius; you can see the puncture wounds in Ewan's neck where the snake bit him. Ewan was beating him; he had to cheat." Merlin explains.
"Valiant wouldn't dare use magic in Camelot." Arthur reasons but stops as he thinks about Clarissa.
"Ewan was pinned under Valiant's shield. No one could see the snake bite him." He argues his point.
"I don't like the guy, but that doesn't mean he's cheating." He groans.
"Gaius is preparing an antidote to the snake venom. When Ewan's conscious, he'll tell you what happened. If you fight Valiant in the final, he'll use the shield. It's the only way he can beat you." He tries to warn the blond. "Look at it!" He picks up the snakehead. "Have you ever seen any snakes like this in Camelot?" Arthur, thinking it over, takes the snakehead, looking it over. "I know I'm just a servant, and my word doesn't count for anything. I wouldn't lie to you."
"I want you to swear to me what you're telling me is true," Arthur orders him.
"I swear it's true," Merlin replies.
"Then I believe you, oh, and Clarissa already warned me." He smirks, both of them unaware that one of Valiant's snakes is watching them.
~ BEWITCHING ~
In the morning, Valiant is escorted through the courtyard to the Council Chamber for his hearing, while in Gaius' chambers, he treats Sir Ewan with Princess Clarissa, who begins to waken. "Welcome back," Clarissa smiles as she sees his eyes opening.
"There was a snake on his shield. It came alive," Ewan tells her weakly.
"You're still weak. The snake's venom is still in your system." Gaius warns him.
"I must warn Arthur," He says, trying to get up.
"Arthur already knows," Clarissa tells him. "He's requested an audience with the King."
"Now, they'll want to talk to you. Rest. You'll need your strength. I need to fetch more herbs. I'll be right back." Gaius leaves the room, Clarissa puts a damp cloth over Ewan's forehead, unaware of the snake slithering towards them, she hears something behind her and turns to see one of Valiant's snakes, she goes to scream, but it bites her, she falls to the floor, waking Ewan. He looks around in worry and sees the snake, he lets out a shout, but there's nobody to hear him as the snake strikes him, causing his death.
~ BEWITCHING ~
Uther enters the council chambers with the accused and the accusers along with guards and the council members. "Why have you summoned the court?" Uther asks his son.
"I believe Knight Valiant is using a magic shield to cheat in the tournament," Arthur informs him.
"Valiant, what do you have to say to this?" The King asks the accused.
"My Lord, this is ridiculous. I've never used magic. Does your son have any evidence to support this outrageous accusation?" He asks.
"Do you have evidence?" He asks Arthur.
"I do," Arthur tells them and motions to Merlin to come forward, who hands Uther the snakehead.
~ BEWITCHING ~
Gaius walks back into his chambers, mixing a potion, not paying any attention. "I'm afraid this potion tastes like toad water, but it'll get you back on your feet." He informs the Knight but doesn't receive an answer. "Ewan?" He calls out; he looks around, unable to see the unconscious Princess and walks over to the other side of the bed to check the knight's pulse, feeling nothing. He moves around to the side and sees the Princess lying on the floor; he rushes to her side to check on her, seeing the two small puncture marks on the side of her neck. "Oh, no," He whispers. "Guards!" He shouts.
~ BEWITCHING ~
"Let me see this shield," Uther orders in the council chambers.
"Don't let him get too close," Merlin whispers a warning to Arthur.
"Be careful, My Lord," Arthur warns his father lightly and draws his sword as Uther inspects the shield, and Gaius rushes into the room.
"Merlin," Gaius whispers, trying to get his attention.
"We need Ewan. Find out what's happening." Arthur whispers an order to Merlin, who nods.
"As you can see, My Lord, it's just an ordinary shield." Valiant lies through his teeth.
"He's not going to let everyone see the snakes come alive," Arthur argues his point.
"Then how am I to know that what you say is true?" Uther questions his son.
"I have a witness," Arthur announces. "Knight Ewan was bitten by one of the snakes from the shield. Its venom made him grievously ill; however, he has received an antidote. He will confirm that Knight Valiant is using magic."
"Where is this witness?" Uher asks, wanting to move on.
"He should be here…" Arthur says and turns to Gaius and Merlin, seeing the grim look on their faces. "Where's Ewan?"
"He's dead," Merlin informs him.
"I'm waiting!" Uther grows impatient.
"I'm afraid the witness is dead," Arthur announces.
"So you have no proof to support these allegations. Have you seen Valiant using magic?" He asks his son.
"No. But my servant fought one of the snakes from-" Arthur says, and his father cuts him off.
"Your servant? You made these outrageous accusations against a knight on the word of a servant?" He asks in fury.
"I believe he's telling the truth!" The Prince argues.
"My Lord, am I really to be judged on some hearsay from a boy?" Valiant questions.
"I've seen those snakes come alive!" Merlin argues.
"How dare you interrupt?! Guards!" Uther shouts at the Warlock, and guards begin to take Merlin away.
"My Lord," Valiant says.
"Wait!" Uther stops them.
"I'm sure he was merely mistaken. I wouldn't want him punished on my account." Valiant tells them.
"You see? This is how a true knight behaves - with gallantry and honour." He praises the shady knight.
"My Lord, if your son made these accusations because he's afraid to fight me, then I will graciously accept his withdrawal." Valiant jabs at the Prince.
"Is this true? Do you wish to withdraw from the tournament?" Uther asks his son.
"No!" Arthur snaps.
"Then what am I to make of these allegations?" He asks.
"Obviously, there has been a misunderstanding. I withdraw the allegation against Knight Valiant. Please accept my apology." He replies.
"Accepted," Valiant smirks.
"I'm sorry to interrupt, Your Highness, but it's Princess Clarissa," Gaius says, and Uther looks at the court physician seeing the grim look on his face, and rushes out of the room with Arthur not far behind him.
~ BEWITCHING ~
Uther rushes into Clarissa's chambers to see her maid Lucy sitting on the side of her bed, putting a damp cloth on her forehead; he reaches her side to see her looking sickly pale. "What happened?" He asks Gaius, who steps towards the bed.
"It seems she was attacked by a snake," Gaius informs him, and Lucy moves Clarissa's damp hair away from her neck, showing the two small puncture wounds.
"Are you sure?" He asks him, looking at him.
"Yes, and Sir Ewan was attacked and killed." He informs him, and Uther frowns, walking out of the room.
"Father, where are you doing?" Arthur asks as he storms to the door, watching as his father walks away. Regin jumps onto Clarissa's bed, whimpering, snuggling into her side; Arthur watches in pain at seeing her lying so still in her bed. "Will you be able to make an antidote?" He asks Gaius.
"Not without the snake that bit her, I'm afraid; we used up the last of it with Sir Ewan." He tells him, and Arthur storms out of the room with Merlin behind him.
~ BEWITCHING ~
Arthur storms into his chambers with Merlin behind him, both of them worried for the ill Princess. "I believed you; I trusted you, and you made me look a complete fool." Arthur snaps at Merlin, trying to get his mind off of Clarissa's failing health.
"I know it didn't go exactly to plan." Merlin tries to say.
""Didn't go to play"?! My father and the entire royal court think I'm a coward! YOU HUMILIATED ME! AND CLARISSA'S DYING!" Arthur shouts at him.
"We can still expose Valiant," Merlin tells him. "And get to the antidote for her."
"I no longer require your services." Arthur politely dismisses him, trying to calm himself down.
"You're sacking me?" He asks in shock.
"I need a servant I can trust," He snaps.
"You can trust me!" He argues.
"And look where it got me this time. Get out of my sight!" He demands, and Merlin walks out of the room; Arthur hears the door close, he collapses into his chair, feeling the tears falling as he worries for Clarissa.
~ BEWITCHING ~
Merlin walks into the Dragon's cave underneath the castle, worried for the Princess and upset about Arthur firing him. "Where are you?" He asks as he waves the torch around. "I just came to tell you; whatever you think is my destiny, whatever it is you think I'm supposed to do, you've got the wrong person! That's it. Goodbye." He says ino the darkness, and Kilgharrah swoops down, resting on the rock facing the ledge.
"If only it were so easy to escape one's destiny." The Great Dragon tells him,
"How can it be my destiny to protect someone who hates me?" He questions.
"A half cannot truly hate that which makes it whole. Very soon, you shall learn that." He tells the Warlock.
"Oh, great. Just what I needed, another riddle." He huffs.
"That your and Arthur's path lies together is but the truth," Kilgharrah tells Merlin, confusing him.
"What is that supposed to mean?" He asks with a frown.
"You know, young Warlock, this is not the end. It is the beginning." He flies away.
"Just give me a straight answer!" He shouts after the dragon. "What about Clarissa!"
~ BEWITCHING ~
Merlin sulks as he walks across the castle courtyard and moves to the steps sitting down, and Lucy sees him as she heads to fetch water for Clarissa. "Hello, Merlin," She greets him.
"All right?" He asks her, and she sits down next to him.
"Is it true what you said about Valiant using magic?" She asks him, worried for Clarissa and sees him nod. "What are you going to do?"
"Why does everyone seem to think it's down to me to do something about it?" He asks her.
"Because it is! My best friend is dying! She believes in you, so make everyone else believe in you, show them that you were right and they were wrong. For Clarry's shake," She tells him, and he looks at her in shock.
"And how do I do that?" He questions her.
"I don't know," She shrugs, and he catches sight of the dog statue.
"That's it," He grins, and Lucy looks at him.
"What are you doing?" She asks him as he tries to pick up the statue.
"So you have a wheelbarrow?" He asks her, and she raises an eyebrow.
~ BEWITCHING ~
Merlin wheels the dog statue into Gaius' chambers as the court physician works on an antidote for the ill Princess. "What are you doing with that?" Gaius asks him, seeing him with the statue.
"I'm going to let everyone see the snakes for themselves." He tells him. "Just like Rissa taught me." He puts the statue in his chamber, pulling out his magic book from under a floorboard. "Bebay odothay. Bebay odthay arisan quickum." He recites the spell he's been learning with Clarissa. "Bebay odothay arisan quickum. Bebay odothay arisan quickum." He keeps trying.
~ BEWITCHING ~
After sunset, Morgana sleeps restlessly as she has a nightmare about Arthur fighting with Valiant and jerks awake. "Arthur!" She whispers and gets up from her bed, walking over to the window and sees Arthur practising in the courtyard below, trying to keep his mind off of Clarissa.
~ BEWITCHING ~
Merlin continues to recite the incantation as the night grows darker, but there's still nothing; he gives himself some time to recharge and walks out, heading to talk to Arthur.
~ BEWITCHING ~
Merlin enters Arthur's chambers to see him getting ready. "I thought I told you to get out of my sight." Arthur reminds Merlin as he walks in.
"Don't fight Valiant in the tournament tomorrow. He'll use the shield against you." Merlin warns him.
"I know," He replies.
"Then withdraw. You have to withdraw," He warns him, not wanting him to die.
"Don't you understand? I can't withdraw. The people expect their prince to fight. How can I lead men into battle if they think I'm a coward?" He questions.
"Valiant will kill you. If you fight, you die." The Warlock tells him.
"Then I die," The Prince replies, thinking of Clarissa.
"How can you go out there and fight like that?" Merlin asks him.
"Because I have to. It's my duty," Arthur replies, and Merlin leaves. "I have to do this for Clarissa." He walks to the window, looking out into the courtyard.
~ BEWITCHING ~
Merlin walks back into his chambers and continues to recite the incantation into the early morning with the spellbook in his lap as he speaks drowsily, not having slept. "Bebay odothay...arisan quickum."
~ BEWITCHING ~
Valiant sharpens his sword in the training grounds by the tournament grounds watching Arthur standing in the arena, looking around, thinking of Clarissa, vowing to win against Valiant and find an antidote for her. The blond prince looks over at the chair his father sits, and one day he will, and walks out of the arena, passing everybody as he heads back to his room to change into his armour.
~ BEWITCHING ~
Arthur's former manservant Thomas helps him into his armour when Morgana enters his room; Thomas bows to the lady and exits the room. Morgana puts her hand on Arthur's back, and he turns around. "Let me," She smiles, needing to be close to someone, needing comfort after the shock of Clarissa. She fixes his straps on the gorget and tightens the vambrace. "I used to help my father with his armour," She comments and hands him his helmet.
"Thanks," He mutters, not really in the right mindset and turns to leave.
"Arthur, be careful, for Clary," She tells him, and he nods.
"See you at the feast," He leaves the room.
~ BEWITCHING ~
Arthur enters the tournament arena, and Valiant puts on his helmet with Arthur as they prepare for the fight; they clash their swords together before getting into a stance. Valiant lets out a battle cry, and the fight begins.
~ BEWITCHING ~
Merlin mumbles the spell with his eyes closed. "Bebay odothay arisan quickum." He keeps repeating the spell when a growl comes from his side. "Bebay odothay arisan quickum." The Warlock keeps going, and the rottweiler barks; he opens his eyes, looking in glee at the dog. "I did it!" He cheers, and the dog lunges at the dark-haired male, he rushes out of the room, shutting the door behind him, and Gaius enters his chambers.
"Arthur's fighting Valiant!" Gaius announces.
"I know. I'm on my way." He tells him, heading for the door, and stops. "Oh, whatever you do, don't go into my room. We'll deal with it later." He says and rushes out of the room, too curious; Gaius peeks into Merlin's chamber to see the rottweiler, who barks at him, and he quickly closes the door.
~ BEWITCHING ~
Arthur fights Valiant in the tournament arena, both slashing their swords, knocking into each other; the prince knocks Valiant's helmet off with his sword and the crowd cheer for their prince. He removes his own to play fair, and they both pull their mail coifs down. Valiant gains the upper hand, going in aggressively, stepping on Arthur's foot, smacking him under the chin with his shield, and sending him to the ground. He rushes over to the fallen prince and steps on his shield, striking towards him, everyone is on the edge of their seats, but the clever prince slides away from his shield as Valiant strikes the ground. Arthur stands to his feet with only his sword as they clash again, but Valiant disarms him, but the prince struggles with the knight before he can strike, and pins the Prince against the wall, but the blond shoves him off Merlin takes this opportunity to perform the spell. "Bebay odothay arisan quickum." The snakes slither out of the shield, the crowd stands in shock at this turn of events.
"What are you doing? I didn't summon you!" Valiant mutters.
"He is using magic," Uther gasps in surprise.
"And now they see you for what you really are." Arthur grins, but Valiant isn't worried as he chuckles darkly, sending the snakes to the ground.
"Kill him!" He orders them, and they slither towards the Prince, who backs up towards the stands, and Morgana seeing him in trouble, grabs the sword from the knight sitting next to her, throwing it to Arthur.
"Arthur!" She calls out to him, and he catches it, swinging at Valiant, killing the snakes, and finally disarms Valiant, running him through.
"This is payback for Clarissa," He whispers, stepping away, allowing Valiant to fall to the ground and the crowd cheers for their Prince. Arthur picks up one of the heads of the snakes and walks out of the arena, seeing his former manservant slapping Merlin on the shoulder on his way out.
~ BEWITCHING ~
Gaius walks into Clarissa's chambers with Lucy sitting by her bedside. Gaius walks over, applying the antidote that works quickly; she begins to stir awake; he smiles, seeing her eyes fluttering open. "Good to see you're awake, my dear," Gaius greets her, Lucy jumps onto Clarissa, making the Princess let out a groan, but she hugs her friend back.
"Oh, I was so worried about you," Lucy whispers, and the door opens; Uther steps inside, he clears his throat, and Lucy jumps away. "Apologies, My Lord," She blushes.
"It's quite alright; we are all glad to see our dear Princess is out of harm's way." He comments. "How are you feeling?" He asks the Princess.
"Much better, thank you," She smiles weakly.
"I am glad to hear it; rest up." He tells her and leaves.
"What happened while I was asleep?" She asks Gaius, and he explains everything.
~ BEWITCHING ~
The Courtiers mingle in the Banquet Hall, and Arthur enters the room, his father spotting him. "My honourable guests, I give you Prince Arthur, your champion," Uther announces to the courtiers, who applaud their prince and Clarissa steps in behind the Prince. "And our beloved Princess Clarissa," He announces, and everyone turns in shock to see her standing with a smile; they all applaud; she walks over to Arthur, who takes her hand smiling.
"My Lady," He smiles at her as she curtsies.
"My champion and saviour," She replies.
"See, I told you he gets all the girls and the glory," Merlin grumbles as he watches Clarissa and Arthur walking through the crowd.
"And he owes it all to you," Gaius reminds him.
"Lucy brought me up to speed, so has your father apologised yet for not believing you?" She asks him.
"You know, he'll never apologise," He reminds her, and she nods.
"Well, that's too bad," She says as they stay by the main table.
"I hope you're not disappointed I'm escorting you," He comments with a tease.
"Well, no one else seems to be champion material." She replies. "And I hope you thanked Morgana for saving you against Valiant." She teases him.
"Uh, I wouldn't say I needed saving exactly. I'm sure I would've thought of something." He argues.
"So you're acting too proud to admit that a girl saved you?" She questions.
"No, because I wasn't," He stutters.
"Don't act so high and might, Arthur Pendragon; it's not a good look on you." She snaps and storms off to Gwen, Lucy and Morgana, talking to the girls, and Arthur turns to Merlin.
"Can you believe Clarissa? She says Morgana saved me. Like I needed any help." He vents and sighs. "I wanted to say I made a mistake. It was unfair to sack you."
"No, don't worry about it. Buy me a drink and call it even." Merlin tells him.
"Uh, I can't be seen to be buying drinks for my servant." He tells him.
"Your servant? You sacked me," The Warlock reminds the blond.
"Now I'm rehiring you," The Prince says with his own agender, making the Warlock snort in disbelief. "My chambers are a complete mess. My clothes need washing. My, uh, armour needs repairing. My boots need cleaning. My dogs need exercising. My fireplace needs sweeping. My bed needs changing. And someone needs to muck out my stables."
"Artie," Clarissa walks back over to pull the Prince away from his servant. "Leave Merlin alone, and we walk the dogs together, and you can make your bed like I do along with your chambers." She smiles as she pulls him away.