The Wanderer
by BynWho
Disclaimer: This is a work of fanfic for entertainment purposes only. All characters and plots from the BBC show Merlin belong to the BBC. All other characters and plots belong to BynWho. No copyright infringement is intended.
Summary: While dealing with Merlin's sudden change of personality and Gaius's disappearance, Marian and Gwaine grow closer.
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A Servant of Two Masters and The Secret Sharer
It was that time of year again when the urge to clean and tidy was too strong to resist. Or it could have just been Marian getting fed up with the decades of dust that settled in unused parts of the physician's chambers. So, she decided that the place needed a good, thorough cleaning.
That was two days ago.
Surrounded by piles of old, dusty books, vials of unknown potions, and countless canisters of ingredients, she put her hands on her hips and looked around at the mess. "Seriously, Gaius, when was the last time this place was cleaned?"
Gaius chuckled at the look of frustration on her face. "Probably when the last court physician vacated it."
"So, when Bruta was king then?"
"Marian, I may be old, but I am not that old."
"I was just tea…sing—" She was cut off by the longest, loudest sneezing fit Gaius had ever heard. "Damn dust."
As she wiped her nose on a spare rag, the door to the chambers flew open and Gwaine burst through, looking haggard and worried.
"You're back early," Gaius said, his eyebrow arched high. "I expected the patrol to be out until dark."
Gwaine was unusually quiet, his eyes darting between them. When he met Marian's eyes, he quickly looked away.
"Gwaine, what is it?" she asked, coming out from behind the piles of books. She brushed her hand down Gwaine's arm, and grasping his hand in hers, she tugged until he looked at her. "What's wrong?"
Gwaine looked pained. Dread seeped deep down into Marian's belly. Something had to have gone wrong on the patrol for him to be so quiet. Maybe someone was hurt. Or worse.
"Merlin," Gwaine said, taking a steadying breath.
Marian let out a gasp, her heart pounding in her chest. Merlin couldn't be dead. Not her brother. Not again. Her voice was small and soft. "No."
"He's missing."
As soon as the words left his mouth, Marian dropped his hand and started forward, intending to go find Merlin. She knew how much Merlin meant to everyone—especially Arthur and Gwaine—so it was hard for her to believe that they'd just left him out there.
Knowing her intentions, Gwaine caught her hand again and pulled her back. "Marian, wait. You can't go out there. There are mercenaries all over the place."
"Yes, and Merlin's out there with them."
She wrenched her hand from his grasp, and when she turned to leave, she was pulled back. Gwaine turned her to face him and held onto her arms. "Marian, love, stop," he said calmly.
She looked up at him, furious and determined to go find Merlin, with or without his help. "Make me."
Gwaine stood fast and wouldn't release her. Tightening his grip, he stared her down, his nostrils flaring and his mouth in a thin line. "I don't want to have to lock you in your chamber, Marian, but I will if it means you're kept safe."
"You wouldn't dare."
"Try me, sweetheart."
"Let go of me, Gwaine."
"You'll just get yourself hurt. These mercenaries are brutal. There's no telling what they'd do to you and I'm not going to let you find out." Gwaine grinned as her face reddened in anger. He knew then that she knew he was right.
"You can't order me around. I'm not one of your squires, Gwaine."
"No, but you're the woman I—" he stopped short. He'd meant to say that she was a healer and not a warrior, but instead, a declaration of love started to tumble out of his mouth.
"Gaius!" Gwen called from the corridor just outside the door.
Marian watched Gwaine with wide eyes as he turned his attention to Gwen. He was going to say something important, something that she thought she already knew, but dreaded to hear. She thought he was going to say he loved her.
"The king wishes you to come to the council chamber. It's about Merlin," Gwen said.
All thoughts of love faded as Marian tore herself from Gwaine's grasp and ran out of the door. His shoulders slumped, and looking like a beaten man, he sighed as he followed Gwen and Gaius to the council chamber.
"What happened to Merlin?" Marian demanded as she stormed into the chamber.
"Hello to you, too, Marian," Arthur said, exasperated.
"Sorry, sire," Gwaine apologized.
Arthur nodded to him and turned to Marian. "He's alive, Marian. Last I saw of him, he was still alive."
Gaius opened his mouth to ask the king how he could help in the search, but never got the chance.
"What do you mean last you saw of him?" Marian asked, her voice rising in volume. "How in the hell did you lose Merlin of all people?"
Arthur clenched his jaw in anger. He knew he'd screwed up, leaving Merlin out there in danger. He'd only been king for a few months and already lost his most loyal servant. Though he knew his father would have just left Merlin in the hands of mercenaries, her still wished Uther was alive to advise and support him. Instead, he had to rely on the counsel of Agravaine. Arthur was upset at himself more than anyone else, but he let his temper get the better of him and lashed out.
"I'm sorry, Marian. I guess I was too busy fighting off mercenaries and trying to not get killed!" he yelled as he slammed his fist onto the table. "Do you really think that I left him there on purpose? Or maybe you'd like to go out there and see if you can do any better?" Arthur's nostrils flared as he drew in quick breaths. "Now, if you don't mind, I'd like to get back to planning a search!"
Marian took a step back, looking as if she'd just been slapped. She knew that Arthur's rage was misplaced—he was just as concerned for Merlin as she was—but it still hurt. Trying not to cry, she bit the inside of her cheek to keep the angry tears from falling. Reining in her fury, she apologized to the king. "Forgive me."
It was only a matter of time until she lost what little control she had and exploded. All the warning signs were there—a jutted chin, flared nostrils, narrowed eyes, clenched fists, and the shine of angry tears. Gwaine had seen it before. Hell, he'd been on the receiving end of it. Hoping to spare Arthur, he took a step forward to address the king on her behalf. "Arthur, he's like a brother to her. I'm sure she meant no disrespect."
Arthur sighed. He knew Gwaine was right. "I'm sorry, Marian. We're going to do everything we can to find him."
Marian nodded but didn't say another word. She was embarrassed and worried and scared, so she couldn't trust the words in her mouth. Merlin was always the one to save the day, never the unwilling victim. He'd know what to do or what to ask and he'd throw himself in front of danger to make things right. Marian wasn't sure she even knew how to help bring him home.
"Dispatch patrols at first light. Scour every inch of that forest," Arthur said.
"Yes, sire," Leon said as he, Gwaine, and the other knights left.
As he passed, Gwaine squeezed Marian's hand.
"We'll find him," Arthur said as he placed a comforting hand on Marian's shoulder. He turned to Gaius. "We will."
The patrols searched for Merlin all day and into the next. When they returned that evening, they convened in the council chamber with the king and his advisors.
Gaius had begged Marian to stay out in the corridor, reminding her that losing her temper with the king would do no one any favors. So, she waited in the corridor just outside the closed doors and listened.
"We have scoured the forest," Agravaine's voice echoed in the chamber.
"Scour it again," Arthur replied.
Leon shook his head. "Sire, there is no sign of Merlin."
"None, but… this," Agravaine said, holding out a piece of cloth to the king.
Marian bent low and peeked through the crack in the door just as Arthur took the cloth. She gasped when she recognized the color of Merlin's jacket.
Gwaine heard her and turned toward the door. He saw Marian's eye looking through the crack and grinned.
"I am sorry you've lost such a loyal and…" Agravaine started.
Arthur held up his hand, stopping Agravaine. "The mercenaries, what news of them?"
"We found no trace," Leon replied.
"Surely sent by that snake, Alinor," Agravaine said.
"Ha!" Marian scoffed. She slammed her hand against her mouth, but it had been too late. A few of the knights and Gaius eyed the door with suspicion.
She quickly backed away and pressed herself against the far wall. She didn't trust Agravaine as far as she could throw him. If anyone was a snake, it was him. He had to be lying, but why, she didn't know.
After several more minutes, the door opened, and members of the council and the knights exited. Gwaine smirked and leaned against the far wall next to her. When everyone else had left, he looked at her.
"Hear everything okay?" he asked, still smiling. "Here." He handed her the piece of cloth from Merlin's jacket.
She took it gratefully and examined it. Her heart dropped when she saw it had been bloodstained. "You know Arthur is going to go after him, don't you?"
"I do," he said. "And he won't be going alone."
She looked up at him sharply. "Be careful. I don't think I could survive if both of you went missing."
Gwaine pulled away from the wall. He cupped her cheek in comfort. "Always," he said before he left to go to his chambers to prepare for the next morning.
Marian smiled after him. She could always count on Gwaine.
The next morning, Marian rose with the sun. She hurried out of bed and ran to her window, hair wild, and still in her nightdress. She looked down at the stone courtyard below and watched as Arthur and Gwaine mounted their horses. As the pair rode off, Gwaine looked up at her in the window and waved. She waved back and watched until they were gone. Arthur and Gwaine would find Merlin. She was sure of it.
Later, while she was preparing some herbs to dry, a very muddy Merlin walked into the physician's chambers. She dropped what she was doing and rushed over to him.
"Merlin!" She started to hug him but thought better of it in his current state. "I'll go fetch a bath for you. No offense, my friend, but you smell terrible!"
After he had washed and dressed, Merlin came back into the chamber and sat at the table. Gaius had prepared his favorite meal for their lunch.
"Don't do that again, Merlin. My heart cannot take the strain," Gaius said as he dipped up some of the stew he had prepared.
Merlin chuckled. "Yes, well, you are getting on a bit."
Gaius looked at Merlin in surprise. "That is the second time in as many days that you two have commented on my age. Is there something the matter with me? Do I look old and infirm?"
Gaius sat the bowl in front of Merlin, waiting for an answer from either of them.
"Sorry, Gaius. We're just teasing. Aren't we, Merlin?"
"What is this?" Merlin asked, ignoring her. He sniffed a spoonful of the stew and pulled a face.
"It's a special welcome home. Your favorite," Gaius replied, smiling. He brought two more bowls over and sat one in front of Marian.
Merlin took a bite of the stew and gagged. "I think that you should stick to cooking up potions, Gaius. This tastes like the bog Arthur found me in."
Marian kicked him under the table.
"How did you escape?" Gaius asked as he sat down at the table, quick to change the subject.
"With great skill," Merlin answered, his voice flat with sarcasm. "Can I ask you something?"
"Yes, of course. Anything."
"What is the strongest poison that you possess?"
Marian choked on her stew while Gaius regarded Merlin curiously.
Merlin got up from the table and went to the potions cupboard. "I had this great opportunity to lace the bandits' food with poison and nothing to do it with."
"Well, that would be aconite," Gaius said, confused.
"Aconite," Merlin drawled out while he searched for the correct vial. When he found it, he grabbed the vial and held it up. "Well, I think I should take some of this with me from now on. You never know when you might need to kill someone," Merlin laughed before leaving the chambers in a hurry.
"What was that all about?" Marian asked as she turned to Gaius.
"I don't know, Marian, but I don't like it."
After lunch, Marian went to deliver a potion to one of the kitchen maids. On her way back, she ran into Gwaine, who looked upset. His frown was deep, and his brow knitted.
"What's that look for?" she teased.
He gave her an I'm in no mood for this look. "Merlin. He's acting strange."
She sighed. "Yeah, I noticed that too. He's been very… rude. Perhaps he's just having a bad day? Waking up in a bog will do that, I guess," she shrugged.
"Perhaps." Gwaine had meant to check on Marian after they returned with Merlin, but duty got in the way. "How are you, beautiful?"
"Better, thank you," she said, giving him a shy smile.
She looked up at him as he brushed his knuckles down her cheek. He stopped at her chin and held it, his thumb rubbing against her lips, his eyes following the motion. He longed to kiss her, to taste her.
"Oh, for heaven's sake, you two! Just kiss already!" Merlin yelled as he stomped past them, a plate of food in hand.
Gwaine and Marian parted quickly.
"Everyone knows you want to!" Merlin yelled before starting down the staircase.
They looked at each other in shock.
"Dogs know it!" Merlin's voice echoed from down the stairs.
"I'd better go…"
"I need to find…"
They both gestured behind them before turning to leave. Marian had never been so embarrassed in her life. Merlin was being such a prat and she couldn't figure out why.
"Merlin, are you alright?" Gaius asked as Merlin paced behind him, looking thoughtful and frustrated.
"I'm pacing."
"Yes, I can see that."
"A man who is alright does not pace, Gaius."
"Oh, well, that's why I asked." Gaius was getting nowhere.
"I'm wrestling with a problem, and there are many factors to take into consideration, and I haven't yet come up with a solution," Merlin said, still pacing.
"Can I be of assistance?"
Merlin turned to look at Gaius. "No," he scoffed.
Gaius was losing patience and sighed. "Would you like to share the problem with me?"
"No."
"Sometimes two heads are better than one."
"Yes, but not when one of them is yours," Merlin said quickly.
Gaius looked up at him in shock. He'd been like this ever since he returned. It was completely out of character for Merlin to be so rude, especially towards him.
Suddenly, the door burst open.
"What the hell, Merlin?" Marian stood in the doorway with her hands on her hips and a deep scowl.
Merlin turned to her, confused. "What?"
"Kiss already?" She stormed toward him. "How dare you! I told you how I felt in confidence!" She crossed her arms over her chest and tapped her foot, expecting an answer.
"What can I say, Marian? If you two weren't so oblivious, none of this would be a problem!"
"I ought to go get my crossbow and use you for target practice!"
"Crossbow?" Merlin looked off into the distance. "Thanks, Marian!" A wide grin crossed his face and he left abruptly, leaving both Marian and Gaius at a loss.
Later that day, Gwen came rushing into the physician's chambers with a cloth bundle. She gave it to Gaius to examine.
"What is this?" he asked.
"Old Joseph's pig ate some of the food and was found dead in its pen. I'd recognize the plate anywhere. It's from the royal kitchens," she said, nodding to the bundle. "Merlin came into Arthur's chambers with food on that plate for the king's lunch. He was furious when he saw that I had already brought lunch up to Arthur."
Gaius took a sniff of what was left of the chicken. He pulled back quickly and made a face. "Aconite."
Marian gave him a sharp look while Gwen shook her head, not recognizing the name.
"Wolfsbane to you. The most deadly poison known to man."
"What was it doing on Arthur's food?" Gwen asked.
"Merlin took some from here earlier," Gaius said slowly. He was beginning to get some idea of what was happening.
Marian got up and walked beside Gwen. "I thought he said it was just in case he got captured again."
Gwen bit her lip. "He was irate when he realized Arthur wasn't going to eat it."
"He has been behaving very strangely." Gaius stood and went over to his books.
"But why would Merlin want to kill Arthur?"
Gaius's eyebrows shot up his forehead as he looked at them. "Merlin wouldn't. Not if he was in his right mind."
"Sorcery?" Marian asked.
"It's the only explanation. He was out god knows where for quite some time." Gaius pulled a few tomes from the shelves and took them over to his worktable.
Marian gasped, "Oh shit! Gaius, Merlin said something about crossbows!"
The three of them ran out of the door to go look for Merlin but instead ran into Leon.
"Have you seen Merlin?" Gwen asked.
"He was in the armory," Leon replied, grinning.
Gaius, Gwen, and Marian shared a concerned look. "What did he want in there?"
"A crossbow. I think Arthur must be getting on his nerves," Leon laughed.
"Why do you say that?" Marian asked, dreading the answer.
Leon looked around the corridor and then leaned close. "He said he was going to kill him," he whispered and then laughed as he walked off. Little did he know Merlin was not annoyed at Arthur, nor was he joking. Leon had no idea that Merlin actually meant to kill the King of Camelot.
"Marian, you check the council chamber. Gwen and I will check the royal chambers."
Not having any luck, Marian headed back to the physician's chambers. She prayed that Gaius and Gwen had better luck.
When she walked in, she saw Merlin lying face down on the worktable, unconscious. Gaius was looking through one of his trusty books while Gwen watched Merlin to make sure he didn't wake up. Marian walked over to join her, looking down at Merlin just as something wiggled beneath the skin of his neck. She jumped back. "Whoa! What was that?"
"I feared as much. It's a fomorroh," Gaius replied, handing the book over to Gwen and Marian. "Whoever put it there was very highly skilled."
"Morgana. I'd bet anything," Marian said.
Gwen pulled a face as the fomorroh moved again. "What does it do?"
Gaius went over to another table and poured some liquid into a bowl. "In the days of the Old Religion, they were used by the High Priestesses to enslave the minds of their enemies," he said as he handed the bowl to Gwen. "Once a thought was planted, the victim would not stop until they'd accomplished it. First, we must paralyze the serpent. Marian, cloth, please."
She went to the cupboard and pulled out a folded cloth, handing it to Gaius. He put the book back down and dabbed some of the liquid onto Merlin's neck. The fomorroh's movements slowed and then stilled.
"Is it dead?" Gwen asked.
"Sadly not. Merely dormant. Now for the tricky bit. Pass me the blade, Marian."
Marian handed Gaius a small knife. Both she and Gwen had to suppress the urge to gag as he sliced the skin over the fomorroh and pulled the creature from Merlin's neck. Gaius looked at the fomorroh closely and then tossed it into the fire.
"That's it?" Gwen asked him.
"I believe so."
Gwen sighed in relief. "We have the old Merlin back. Arthur is safe once more."
"Let us hope so."
The next day, Gaius received a summons to the lower town because one of the Felton twins was sick with a fever and needed medical attention. Marian offered to go instead, so Gaius could be there when Merlin finally climbed out of bed. Upon her return, though, Merlin was once again unconscious and face down on the worktable. Gaius and Gwen were looking over at him with concern etched on their faces. Marian looked over Gwen's shoulder and groaned. The fomorroh was back.
"So, let me get this straight," Gwen said as Gaius consulted his book. "If you kill one, another grows in its place?"
"I've heard such stories in the past, but never thought they were true." Gaius dabbed more of the liquid from the day before onto Merlin's neck, paralyzing the creature beneath his skin. "That will silence it for a while." He grabbed a canister and held it under Merlin's nose.
Merlin jerked awake and sat up. "What is that? Arthur's socks?"
Marian and Gwen both laughed.
"What are you trying to do to me?" Merlin looked around the room, confused as to why he was on Gaius's worktable.
"I'm trying to stop you from killing the king."
Merlin laughed and then sobered suddenly. "Oh." He stumbled as he stood and his head to gather his bearings. "I think I'm hungry," he said with a smile.
Marian rolled her eyes. Men and their stomachs, she thought. "I'll go get you something."
Grinning, Gwen turned to leave. "I had better get back. Let me know if there is anything else I can do," she said before walking out of the chambers.
Marian returned with a large bowl of berries, which Merlin began stuffing in his face as if he hadn't eaten in days.
"Slow down," she laughed as she sat next to him. "You'll get hiccups."
Merlin grinned at her but continued to shovel berries into his mouth.
Gaius leaned in, trying to get Merlin's attention. "So, you don't remember anything?"
"I remember Morgana conjuring the snake, but nothing more, no," he said, mouth full of berries. As he chewed, Merlin flipped through the book Gaius had left out.
"Lucky for us, you're such a bad assassin," Gaius said.
"Well, all is well now. I feel fine," Merlin smiled.
Gaius shook his head. "For now, the serpent is dormant, and when it wakes, your mind will be Morgana's once more, and nothing will stop you from killing Arthur."
Merlin gulped loudly as he swallowed another mouthful of berries. "But how do we get rid of it if it keeps growing back?"
"There's only one way, I'm afraid. You have to kill the mother beast."
Merlin's brow furrowed. "The creature that lives in Morgana's hut?" Merlin sighed when Gaius nodded. "Great. How long have I got? How long before this thing wakes up?"
"A day, no more. And I wouldn't face her alone."
"Don't worry. I won't be there at all. Well, not exactly," Merlin said with a wicked grin on his face. He stood from the table and went to the potion cupboard, grabbing a vial. "She won't recognize me if I'm eighty years old."
Marian stood when Merlin rushed to the door. "Merlin!" She walked over and embraced him. "Please be careful."
"Of course!" Merlin smiled brightly at her.
"Well, what should I say if Arthur asks for you?" Gaius asked.
"Tell him I'm anywhere," Merlin replied as he closed the door behind him.
Marian shrugged at Gaius just as Merlin popped his head back in. "Anywhere but the tavern." He closed the door again and left.
Later that day, the patrol of knights returned unexpectedly after a run-in with a sorcerer. Leon, Elyan, Percival, and Gwaine headed to the physician's chambers to have their injuries tended to.
"What the hell happened out there?" Marian asked when they arrived.
"It was that old fellow," Gwaine said. "The one that murdered Uther."
Marian and Gaius shared a look. "I wonder what he was doing out this far," Gaius said, trying to compose himself.
"He wouldn't say," Leon said. "He was belligerent."
"And damn rude," Gwaine said as he watched Marian examine Percival's shoulder.
When she was done, she went to Gwaine and pushed him down to the bench. "I'm sure he didn't expect to run into a patrol," she said.
Gaius finished with Leon and went to Elyan. "What exactly happened to you?" Gaius asked.
Gwaine bent his head over so she could check the back of his skull for cuts and lumps. "He used his magic—Ow!"
Marian grinned. "Sorry."
"No, you're not."
"I swear, Gwaine, you get knocked around more than anyone else I know."
"It's his mouth that gets him in trouble, Marian," Elyan laughed from across the room.
Marian looked down at Gwaine. "I've no doubt of that."
He looked up at her, wagging his eyebrows. "I know another way my mouth can get me in trouble." He jerked when Marian pulled his hair. "Ow! Stop that!"
"You'll be fine, Gwaine."
"I'm not so sure about that, love. I think you've done me further injury." He raised his eyes to her and smirked. "I need to rest and be looked after by a pretty face."
Marian arched an eyebrow at him. "Well, if you really think so, I could ask George to look after you. He's been complaining that he has nothing to do now that Merlin returned." She patted the top of his head and walked away. "I'm sure he'd be more than happy and very attentive."
Gwaine's smile fell as everyone laughed. "You are cruel, beautiful," he said, standing. He followed the other knights to the door and turned back to her. "Cruel."
"Only for you, my dear knight. Only for you."
Gwaine chuckled and left.
That evening, Merlin had returned victorious. He had managed to destroy the mother fomorroh and had returned to his younger self. As he sat on a chair, he leaned forward so Gaius could remove the remaining creature once and for all.
"This is becoming something of a habit," Gaius said.
"I hope not."
Marian stepped up next to Gaius and handed him a blade. She gagged as he cut into Merlin's neck to get at the paralyzed creature. Once he removed the dead fomorroh, he tossed it into the fire. Merlin watched as the creature went up in flames and fizzled out.
Gaius shook his head. "Don't worry. It cannot grow back again."
Merlin nodded and felt the back of his neck, shuddering when he came across the slight cut left there. He blew out a breath, grateful that he had control of his body back.
Gwen entered the chambers and smiled. "Merlin," she said, relieved. "You're back. Dare I look?"
Merlin nodded. "Oh, it's… don't worry, it's completely gone. I've no desire to kill Arthur."
"That's great news," Gwen said. "Although I'm afraid right now, he does want to kill you."
Merlin's smile dropped. In the midst of being possessed by a murderous magical creature intent on killing the king, he'd forgotten about all of the time he'd spent away from his duties. He stood and hurried from the chambers, ready to face the music.
A few weeks later, Marian was on her way back to her chamber for the night when she narrowly missed colliding with Lord Agravaine.
"Oh, sorry, my lord," she said as she tried to pass by him.
He grabbed her by the arm and she shuddered as chills went down her spine.
"Marian, my dear," he purred. "I believe your young man was looking for you."
"My young man?"
His grip on her arm tightened, and he grinned triumphantly as he had caught her in her lies. Marian had made a fool of him, avoiding his advances and using a knight to help her in her deception. But it seems that Agravaine was right about Marian's relationship with Gwaine, or rather lack of it. "Sir Gwaine is still your sweetheart, is he not?"
Marian narrowed her eyes at him. What he was trying to do was clearly obvious. There was no way in hell she was going to let Agravaine think she wasn't still with Gwaine. Especially since Gwaine had made it clear to Agravaine that he should refrain from getting all touchy-feely with her.
The slimeball.
She put on a sickly sweet smile. "Oh, you mean my lover?" she asked. "Yes, my lord. I'm just not used to your puerile phrasing. Forgive me."
Agravaine's face fell, and his grin was replaced with an angry frown. He dropped her arm. "Yes, well," he nearly vomited, "you should hurry to him, my dear. You wouldn't want him to think that you whet your appetite elsewhere."
Agravaine, angry that he was not only thwarted in his victory but also that he had lost focus of his mission for Morgana, spun abruptly and left her standing alone in the corridor.
Although it was late and Gwaine was probably asleep, Marian still knocked on his door. Just as she changed her mind and turned to leave, the door opened. He stood before her, only in his trousers. His hair was mussed, and his eyes were heavy with sleep. She couldn't help but stare at his bare chest.
"Marian?" He pulled his tunic over his head and stepped back, giving her room to enter his chamber. "Is everything alright?"
She brought her attention back to his face. "I was going to ask you the same," she said as she walked in, her brow furrowed. "Agravaine said you were looking for me. Are you hurt? Or ill?"
He looked at her, confused. "No, I'm well. But I haven't spoken to Agravaine all day. He must have been mistaken."
"I bet he was," she drawled, the feeling in her gut putting her on guard. Agravaine was up to something. "Gwaine, do you trust him?"
Just as he opened his mouth to reply, the warning bells sounded. Alarmed, Gwaine put his hand on the small of her back and led her from the room.
"I'll escort you back to your chamber."
When they arrived at her door, several guards rushed past them toward the physician's chambers, followed by Agravaine, Merlin, and Arthur. Gwaine and Marian shared a look of concern and ran off to follow.
Marian gasped when they entered. Guards were going through Gaius's possessions, tossing books and breaking clay jars, spilling the contents all over the floor. Rightly angry, she yelled at the guards. "Is that really necessary? What happened? Where's Gaius?"
Agravaine looked at her with narrowed eyes and then turned to Arthur to address the king. "My lord, he was seen riding away from the city."
"That can't be true," Merlin said as he watched the guards break more jars and pots.
Leon rushed into the chamber. "Sire." He bowed to Arthur then turned to Agravaine. "You were right. A white stallion has been taken from the royal stables."
Marian started forward, but Gwaine seized her arm to hold her back. "You're wrong! Gaius wouldn't leave!"
Arthur looked as bewildered as the rest. "Where would he be going? Why leave at this time of night?"
"Well, I could hazard a guess, sire, but I think a thorough search of his belongings may well provide us with the truth," Agravaine said, sneering at Marian.
"You son of a bi—" she yelled before Gwaine grabbed her from behind and covered her mouth with his hand. Her muffled protests could still be heard, even if not understood.
"My apologies, sire," Gwaine said to Arthur. "I've just remembered something that requires Marian's attention. Please, excuse us." He pulled her back toward the door, kicking and screaming. Luckily for her, his hand still muffled her foul-mouthed tirade.
Arthur nodded, thankful that Gwaine was saving him from having to admonish her. Especially since he also wanted to scream obscenities at the situation.
When they reached the corridor, Gwaine loosened his grip, and Marian pushed away from him.
"Goddammit, Gwaine!" she yelled at him and started back toward the physician's chambers.
He grabbed her hand and pulled her back, dragging her to her chamber door. He pushed her inside and followed, closing the door behind him. Leaning back on it, he crossed his arms. When she stood in front of him with a determined look on her face, he raised his eyebrows.
"I'm not letting you out of here yet, beautiful."
"Agravaine is assuming… Gaius wouldn't… Fuck, Gwaine, Gaius wouldn't do what Agravaine is accusing him of! We both know that!" When he didn't move, she started pacing in front of him. "That no good… vile… accusing innocent people… evil… son of a bitch…" she muttered under her breath.
Gwaine sighed and dropped his arms. He pulled her closer and held her tight. "There's no use in wearing yourself out, Marian. There isn't anything we can do until tomorrow."
She drew in a deep breath, and as she blew it out, she wrapped her arms around his torso and returned his embrace. "I know. I just…it's not fair," she said as she laid her head on his shoulder. Gwaine felt safe and comforting—feelings she knew she shouldn't have but couldn't help.
Gwaine tightened his hold on her, enjoying the warmth of her body. He kissed the top of her head and sighed. "I know, love. I know."
The next day, with his search completed, Agravaine met Arthur in the council chamber to give his report. Marian hid in the corridor, waiting to hear what Agravaine had to say. Gwaine came up behind her, startling her, and he smiled when she turned to give him a dirty look. Just as he was about to ask her what she was doing, she held a finger to his lips to keep him quiet. She pointed to the door, and they leaned in to hear.
"And this was found in Gaius's chambers?" Arthur asked.
"I am as disappointed as you, sire. Someone so close, so trusted. And it's not merely the discovery that he was a sorcerer, is it? It's… it's the lies." Agravaine's voice was dripping with lies and false concern.
Furious, Marian reached for the door handle but Gwaine pulled her back and shook his head at her.
"The lies and years of betrayal," Agravaine continued.
A bang echoed around the room as if something hit the table.
"I know it's hard to believe, isn't it, sire?" Agravaine went on. "But we both saw him refuse to condemn magic. We both knew he was hiding something. And neither of us want to believe it, but… now, with this… hasty departure in the middle of the night? These are not the actions of an innocent man, sire. There can be no doubt. Gaius is the traitor."
Marian shook with rage—her nostrils flaring and hot, angry tears spilling down her cheeks. Gwaine, believing she was about to blow her top, squeezed her hand, half in comfort and half in warning.
When there was no answer, Agravaine continued. "I'll send a search party as soon as possible."
"No," Arthur finally spoke up. "What purpose will that serve? Let him run."
"As you wish, sire," Agravaine said.
Gwaine heard Agravaine's footsteps approaching the door. Afraid of being caught eavesdropping, he pulled Marian away and around a corner. There was no alcove or statue to hide behind. With nowhere to hide and Agravaine closing in, Gwaine pushed Marian against the wall and kissed her.
When she froze, he mumbled against her mouth. "Kiss me, woman, he's coming!"
Catching on, she closed her eyes and wrapped her arms around his neck as he held her waist. All thoughts of anger melted as her heart thumped faster. Gwaine's kiss turned from soft and friendly to a lover's kiss. She brushed his lips with her tongue, enjoying the taste of him. When he returned the favor, Marian moaned and ran her fingers through his hair.
Gwaine smelled like leather and musk, a scent that was beginning to turn her on like no other scent ever had before. She swooned when he brought a hand up to cup her face, his fingers brushing through her hair as he held onto her. She had no time to be alarmed by her unusual reaction because he deepened their kiss, his tongue slipping past her lips and brushing hers. Time slowed and reality faded as their lips moved together again and again. Marian had never been kissed so… passionately. This kiss outshined all of the others, and likely those yet to come.
They were so lost in each other that they didn't notice when Agravaine passed by.
"Oh, get a room."
When Gwaine finally realized that Agravaine was no longer in the corridor, he gently pulled his lips from hers. Marian didn't open her eyes, savoring the moment, and she licked her red, swollen lips as she panted, unable to catch her breath.
Gwaine grinned. "He's gone, beautiful. You can look now."
"Hmm?"
"Agravaine is gone."
Marian opened her eyes and was taken aback for a brief moment. Gwaine's eyes were dark with lust, and his grin faded. The way he looked at her made her heart flutter and her stomach flip. That smolder would be her undoing.
"Gwaine, I…" Nothing. She could think of nothing to say. The man had kissed her stupid.
A smug grin crept across his face. "Let's go before Arthur finds us."
After having supper alone in the kitchens, Marian headed back to the physician's chambers to clean up the mess the guards left. She felt like she was close to murdering Agravaine for the lies he told about Gaius, so she thought getting everything back in order would prove to be a distraction.
Gwen was in the corridor that led to the physician's chambers. They exchanged a consoling smile as she reached out for Marian's hand. "Merlin's in there. I think he feels about the same as you do."
"I think we all do."
"Will you be alright?"
Marian nodded. "I think so. But… something doesn't feel right, does it?"
Gwen frowned. "Merlin just about said the same thing. Is there something I don't know?"
"No, I just don't trust Agravaine, Gwen. That's all."
"Gaius would know what to do," Gwen laughed bitterly. "I think we all feel lost without him."
Marian tilted her head toward the chambers. "I'd better go see to Merlin."
When Marian entered the physician's chambers, she saw Merlin crouched on the floor, gathering papers. She sat down across from him and began to clean up. He looked up at her but said nothing. After they had cleared the papers off of the floor, Marian stood and went to the broom cupboard. She began sweeping while Merlin shelved books.
"Merlin, talk to me."
Still angry and hurt, Merlin's voice was clipped. "I don't feel like talking, Marian."
"If anyone can understand—"
"How can you? You know nothing!" he yelled. "This isn't your home! This isn't even your time! Do you understand what's going to happen, Marian?"
Her eyes widened, and she shook her head.
"Agravaine has convinced Arthur that Gaius is a traitor. Next, he will go after those closest to Gaius. He'll have us banished, or worse! I doubt you ever had to deal with something like this in your precious future! So, don't tell me you understand how I feel!"
"Sorry." Marian could barely control her tears as she fled the room.
Concerned that he hadn't seen her all evening, Gwaine went looking for Marian. The physician's chambers were empty, as was her bedchamber. He checked the grassy courtyard she frequented when she needed to think. It was empty. At a loss, he searched corridor after corridor for her until it hit him.
Her garden.
Gwaine didn't see Marian right away when he reached the garden. He strolled through the tall plants looking until he saw the unexpected. Marian was sitting in the middle of the fennel bushes hugging her legs. Gwaine crouched down beside her. Before he could say anything, Marian launched herself into his arms, knocking him over, and he held onto her, patiently waiting for her to speak.
"I can't take much more of this. First Merlin and now Gaius. Who's it going to be next? Will you leave me too? Or Gwen?"
He sighed and rubbed her back. "I don't plan on going anywhere, sweetheart."
Marian nodded against his chest and sniffled. After a few moments, she backed out of his arms and sat next to him. "Merlin won't even talk to me. I know he's hurting as much as I am, but he won't let me help. When I went in there, he yelled at me."
"That doesn't sound like him. It must just be the stress and heartache at losing Gaius."
"You don't believe Gaius is a traitor, do you?"
"No," he said softly. He just wanted to hold her and comfort her. He watched as she blinked back tears. Small droplets clung to her lashes like morning dew on grass. The moon was full, its light making her look as if she were glowing. Marian's heart was so tender, and her righteous anger fierce. She would do anything for those she cared for. It was then that he realized he would ride to Hell and back for this woman. "No, I don't," he said in a stronger voice. "Would you like for me to go talk to Merlin? See if I can help?"
"Would you really?"
"Of course, beautiful. Anything for you."
He stood and offered Marian his hand. Once they were standing, Marian leaned up and kissed his cheek.
"Thank you, Gwaine."
He beamed, extending his arm for her as they walked back to the palace. When they reached her chamber, Marian opened her door.
Gwaine stopped her. "Marian?" When she looked up at him, his heart fluttered and his stomach flipped. "I…" love you. He cleared his throat. "I'd never leave you. You know that, right?"
She nodded.
"I… we… your friends. We care about you," More than you know.
"I know, Gwaine. Thank you."
An hour later, as Marian was sitting on her windowsill, she saw Gwaine and Merlin leaving Camelot on horseback.
Marian woke early the next morning to hoofbeats on the stone courtyard below. When she looked down, she saw Gwaine and Agravaine riding up to the palace. There was a figure draped over the horse in front of Gwaine. She rushed to dress and ran out of the room to go meet them.
She arrived at the landing just as Gwaine ran up the stairs to meet the king. Guards trailed behind him, carrying an unconscious Gaius, with Agravaine close behind. When he reached her, Gwaine squeezed Marian's hand and gave her a tight smile.
"What happened?" Arthur asked.
"We found him. He'd been kidnapped," Gwaine answered.
Arthur looked at Gaius, his expression filled with guilt.
"He's in a bad way, sire."
"Well, then, let's get to it," Marian said as she led the way to the physician's chambers, and took charge. "Put him on the cot over there," she said, pointing to the back of the room. "I need fresh water and clean towels."
The guards looked to Arthur, waiting for permission.
"Now!" Marian yelled.
Arthur nodded, and they left.
She was so busy barking out orders to the king's guards that she didn't notice Gwaine come up behind her. He startled her when she turned and caught her before she could fall onto her patient.
"Careful there, love."
Marian leaned close to him and whispered. "I don't know if I can do this."
"What do you mean?"
She looked over at Arthur and Agravaine, making sure they couldn't hear. "I mean, fever or a bump on the head, I can deal with. But this looks like magic. I've never treated magic without Gaius before. What if I make him worse?"
Gwaine smiled softly at her. "Marian, I know no one more capable than you. And I know for a fact that Gaius trusts you with his life," he said as he brushed a strand of hair from her face. "Gaius has taught you well."
She smiled, flattered by his praise, but it faltered as she looked around the room. "Gwaine? Where's Merlin?"
"He's not back?" He turned around, and Arthur shook his head. "Damn. He told me to leave when I found Gaius. I'll go look for him." Gwaine held Marian's hand and squeezed it. "I'll find him, beautiful. Don't you worry."
"Gwaine?" Gwen called in the corridor when he passed her.
He turned around, but he didn't stop, instead, he walked backward as he spoke. "Gaius is back but Merlin is missing. Again."
Gwen frowned. "What can I do to help?"
"Marian."
"Marian?"
"She's overwhelmed and scared. I can't really stop, Gwen, I'm sorry."
"I'll take care of her," Gwen said to his back as he ran down the stairs.
She entered the physician's chambers and smiled softly at Arthur as she went to the back of the room to help Marian. She picked up the cloth in the water bowl sitting next to the cot and wiped Gaius's brow while Marian mixed liquids and herbs.
Marian lit a flame on the table and set the mixture in a glass bottle to boil. "Thank you for coming, Gwen. It means the world to me."
"It's my pleasure." Gwen bit her lip while she watched as Marian felt Gaius's brow. "It was Gwaine who told me of Gaius's return. He was concerned that you felt overwhelmed. He cares for you, doesn't he?"
Marian snapped her head up. "Gwaine? He cares for all of his friends."
Gwen grinned. "Yes, but he seems to take extra care of you, Marian. Do you feel the same?"
Marian stood suddenly and retrieved the boiling potion. "This just needs to cool," she said, placing the hot bottle on the table.
"Marian…"
"He is a good friend, Gwen. That's all."
Gwen knew she was lying. Marian thought she was a good liar, but she could see through her. She sighed. "If you say so."
Mercifully, Arthur and Agravaine left the room and Marian could continue to work without Agravaine glaring at her.
Exhausted and desperate to stretch her legs, Marian left the physician's chambers once she was sure Gaius was out of the woods. After Gwen promised to get her should anything change, Marian made her way outside to the stone courtyard and headed to the town. But Merlin and Gwaine arrived before she could even get out of the courtyard. She was both happy and relieved to see them though she was nervous about speaking to Merlin again.
Merlin spotted her coming his way as he dismounted his horse and handed the reins to the stable lad.
She fidgeted until Merlin pulled her in for a hug.
"I'm sorry, Marian. I was upset, but I shouldn't have yelled at you."
"It's okay, truly. I'm just glad everyone is home and safe. Gaius will be fine, by the way."
"Is he awake?" Gwaine asked all smiles as he came up beside them.
"He was, but he's resting. Gwen is sitting with him now."
Merlin broke out into a grin. "I'm going to—"
"Go," Marian smiled.
She turned to Gwaine and gave him a tight hug. "Thank you, Gwaine."
"What for?" he asked, smiling.
"Oh, the usual—keeping me from making a fool of myself, bringing my family back home, being kind. Just… you being you."
"Anything for you, beautiful."
"I'm going to the market. Walk with me?"
Gwaine held his arm out to her, and she wrapped her hand through it, smiling up at him.
Yup. Ride to hell and back for her. One smile and Gwaine was a lost man.
I love you.