"Bael onbryne." A small flickering flame jumped from Merlin's palm. "See? You need to pull the power from your center, your core. You'll feel it."
Morgana's eyes narrowed, and she flung out her hand again. "Bael onbryne."
The two waited for a moment, and Morgana's hand trembled with effort, but there was nothing.
"You almost have it." Merlin encouraged.
Morgana rolled her eyes. "How would you know?"
"I can feel it. The magic is there, you just need to release it."
The ward glanced slightly at the prince with an eyebrow raised. Merlin didn't notice.
"Come on, try again."
Before Morgana could follow Merlin's demand, the door suddenly opened, echoing through the room, and the two turned around, startled, Merlin tucking his book under his tunic as he did so.
Their worries were in vain though, for instead of the king's men standing there as they assumed, it was just Will. Just Will it may have been, but the stricken look on his face told Merlin they would not be able to continue Morgana's lessons for the day.
"Will! What happened?"
"Hunith is here!"
Merlin's mouth opened in surprise. "Why? Where is she?"
"The throne room."
Merlin's eyebrows knitted together. "The throne room? What would she be doing there?"
"You might want to come and see for yourself."
When Merlin entered the large chamber, the first thing he saw was Arthur, standing next to their father, facing the council members and a woman.
Hunith. She looked tired, with her hair up in a quick bun, her simple dress ripped in a few places. Then there was the bruise on her face, the discoloration marking making her eye stand out.
Merlin crept next to Arthur, who didn't acknowledge his presence, simply staring forward. Hunith noticed him and gave him a quick smile, to which he responded likewise. Hunith looked down and then spoke in her soft lilt, but there was a toughness there Merlin knew came with growing up in a small village.
"The winters are harsh in Ealdor and there are many children. Some of them just won't be strong enough to survive. We barely have enough food as it is, and if Kanen takes our harvest, our children won't live to see the next summer. Please, we need your help."
Merlin's face narrowed in anger. Despite not knowing the story, the details that Hunith had just revealed told him Kanen was a mercenary who didn't care about anyone but himself. Obviously he must have been abusing the little village. Merlin looked to his father as he spoke.
"Ealdor is in Cendred's kingdom. Your safety is his responsibility."
Hunith was nervously playing with her fingers. "But he cares little for the outlying regions." She ventured. "You're our only hope."
Uther was silent for a moment, and Arthur turned to look at Merlin, his eyebrows raised.
"I have the deepest sympathy for you and would have this barbarian wiped off the face of the earth." Uther eventually said, his head resting on his hand.
Hunith's face lifted. "You'll help us?"
"I wish I could."
"Surely we can spare a few men." Merlin said, the words out of his mouth before he could think about it. Both Uther and Arthur turned to him.
"Resources are not the problem." Uther replied, relaxing into his seat.
"Then what is?" Morgana asked sharply.
Uther wasn't fazed. "Ealdor lies beyond the ridge of Aesctir. For an army of Camelot to enter - it would be an act of war."
At the words, Hunith dropped to her knees, her face desperately earnest. "I know you're a good king, a caring man. I'm begging you. Help us, please."
The king didn't look anymore sorry. "The accord we've struck with Cenred was years in the making. I cannot risk hundreds of lives for the sake of one village. I'm afraid Camelot cannot help."
Merlin didn't realize his face was creased in fury until Arthur turned and placed a restraining hand on his arm. Merlin's glare transferred to his brother, but Arthur held it, not flinching in the slightest. There was a tense moment of stillness, Hunith's face showing nothing but despair, until Morgana finally moved and held onto the woman, kindly comforting her.
"I'm sorry. I couldn't let you embarrass yourself in front of the court."
Merlin's face was a mask; no emotions showing through. The two brothers were on a balcony overlooking the entrance to the castle, a spot both used for hours to people-watch when they were little. They were too busy to do it now, however, and Merlin let himself take in the old and new things that accompanied the view. Finally, the younger prince spoke.
"It's Hunith, Arthur. You know she is practically my mother. If I could have said anything, I might have been able to send a few knights with me."
Arthur had turned to Merlin with narrowed eyes, and Merlin inwardly sighed. Arthur took it personally that Merlin didn't remember their mother, as he was too young when she died, and any mention of a mother usually set Arthur off. This time, however, Arthur reigned it in.
"I wish Camelot was able to help people regardless of how far away they lived." He said softly.
Merlin clenched his fists and turned to the older prince. "I'm going to make sure Hunith is looked after. I can't take knights with me, thanks to you, but at least I can make it right."
Arhtur faced him, his eyes widening. "Merlin, you can't possibly fight the bandits alone."
Merlin raised an eyebrow, holding up a hand. "I'm not exactly helpless."
The crown prince frowned and shook his head, then took a few deep breaths. "You really care for her?"
Merlin nodded. "She helped me without knowing who I was, and when she did find out, she treated me the same. I have to help her."
Arthur watched an old man lead a cart into the gate, then responded, "I'd do exactly the same."
Merlin blinked slowly. The brother he knew never would let him go off by himself. He was 'too young,' apparently.
"You understand? You're letting me go just like that?"
Arthur turned to him. "Be back before the week ends."
Merlin smiled, yelled, "Thanks Arthur!" and started running to his chambers.
"Merlin!" Arthur shouted.
The prince looked back, hoping his brother hadn't changed his mind. Arthur just stared at him, then said loudly, "Good luck."
Merlin nodded, and went to pack.
Merlin was in the midst of tucking his clothes into a leather bag when there was a knock on his door.
"Enter!" Merlin called, facing the door and hoping it wasn't his father. Surprisingly, it was Gwen who slipped through the door, accompanied by guards, and Merlin was alarmed for a moment before he realized it was simply because of what Gwen was holding. It was a sword, the blade wrapped in a yellow cloth.
"Gwen," Merlin said warmly, stepping closer to her.
"Prince Merlin." Gwen curtsied as best as she could while holding a dangerous weapon.
"To what do I owe this pleasant surprise?"
Gwen took a deep breath. "I heard you were going with Hunith, and I wanted to help you…Hunith seems like such a nice lady and it's very kind of you to help her…" Gwen realized she was rambling and smiled. "I wanted to give this to you, sire, it's the best sword my dad has made since the other one you gave to Prince Arthur…" She stepped forward, offering the sword.
Merlin took it, careful not to cut himself, and twisted the sword around, testing it but being careful not to hit Gwen or the guards, still a step back from the maid.
"That's very good. It's very, you know, swordy."
Gwen gave him a look, and Merlin laughed. "That's really kind of you Gwen, thank you."
Gwen looked as if she wanted to respond, but just then there was another knock, and Merlin rolled his eyes. "Come in!"
The guards behind Gwen, satisfied that the serving girl wouldn't try to hurt their prince, opened the door, ready to fight if the person was an intruder. The guards relaxed as Morgana walked through, wearing a short gray tunic and leggings, her hair tied behind her.
"Ah, Gwen I see you are here already. Have you told him?"
Merlin narrowed his eyes. "Told me what?"
Morgana stood straight, the familiar stubborn glint in her eyes. "We're coming with you."
Merlin glanced between the two. "What do you mean?"
Gwen looked nervous. "You're going to need all the help you can get. I can mend armor and sharpen swords."
"And I know how to fight." Morgana put in.
Merlin was momentarily speechless. "But you can't. I mean, why would you? None of you know Hunith."
Gwen didn't hesitate. "If it was the other way round, you'd help us. You already have. You saved my life."
Morgana grinned. "And you're my little brother. It's my job to look after you. We owe it to you. Both of us."
Merlin smiled. "Then I will welcome the help. I have one more stop and then we can go."
"You got the food I prepared for you?" Gaius asked, not quite pacing, but near enough to it.
"Yes." Merlin responded, mentally going through his checklist."
"Be careful with the wine, you know what you're like, sire, one whiff of a barmaid's apron and you're singing like a sailor."
"I'll be fine."
"And are you sure you don't want an extra blanket?"
Merlin almost rolled his eyes. "It's okay, really. It'll be alright." Finishing the checklist, Merlin hauled his bag onto his shoulders.
"Well, make sure you are. Do whatever it takes."
Understanding the subtle hint, Merlin nodded, and then put his hand on Gaius' shoulder. There was only a second of hesitation before Gaius pulled Merlin in and wrapped his arms around him. Merlin smiled, and pet his back. "Goodbye, Gaius."
"Goodbye, Merlin."
Merlin set out with Hunith, Gwen, and Morgana after giving a farewell to Gaius. It took about a day to ride, and when the four settled down for the night, Merlin estimated they were about three fourths of the way there.
I wonder if anyone will recognize me. I hope not, but it will be easier if they are willing to listen to me because of my status. Merling glanced over to Gwen and Morgana, who were sleeping a little ways away. I really hope nothing happens to them. Although if something does, maybe Father will come in with the knights.
"You shouldn't be here."
Merlin faced Hunith, who was sitting on a log in front of the fire next to him. Hunith continued. "You're the king's son, and Lady Morgana his ward."
Merlin smirked. "Not that you'd know it. She's the only person I know who isn't frightened of my father."
Although that's not really true. Merlin thought. The only thing she's afraid of is Uther finding out she has magic.
Hunith was quiet for a moment. "It won't make any difference to Kanen that they're women."
"I know." It wasn't the first time so far Merlin regretted allowing the two to come. "But I couldn't talk them out of coming."
Merlin gently touched the bruise under Hunith's eye and frowned. "I'm going to make him pay for what he did to you."
Hunith gave a small smile. "Promise me you'll be careful."
Merlin smiled at the underlying statement in her words. Promise me they won't hurt you for your magic. When Hunith had found Merlin, hurt and alone in the woods eleven years ago, the younger prince's magic had acted on instinct. Instead of turning away in disgust and horror however, Hunith had taken him to her house and cared for him. The honest love and care in Hunith's heart was part of the reason she was so special to Merlin. When the woman had found out Merlin's mother had died, she had felt even more compassion toward the boy lost in the woods.
Hunith's eyes radiated warmth, and she slowly pulled his head down to give him a kiss on the forehead. Merlin allowed it, an unfamiliar feeling blooming in his heart. He hadn't had this intimate touch in a long time, and his resolve to protect Hunith hardened.
"Get some rest." Hunith murmured, and got up with one last caress to his head.
Merlin stared into the fire. He picked up the stick to stir the fire, and blew on the end. Glowing orange embers caught flight. It was almost hypnotical, and on a sudden whim, Merlin murmured, "Draeca."
The small glowing lights drifted into the shape of a dragon, and Merlin smiled, awed at the pure wonder and power. He then quickly glanced at Gwen to make sure she hadn't seen. The maid was peacefully sleeping, and Merlin breathed a sigh of relief. He didn't know what he would have done if she had seen.
Later that night, Merlin restlessly tossed and turned. He wasn't exactly unfamiliar with sleeping on the ground; hunting trips with Arthur had first introduced him to it, but it wasn't a common occurrence. More so, his insomnia was caused by thoughts of Hunith and Kanen.
Clip clop, clip clop.
The younger prince's head snapped up suddenly as he heard hoofbeats. Someone was coming. Quickly, Merlin threw off his blanket and grabbed the sword Gwen had given him. Without bothering to wake anyone up, Merlin crept toward where he had heard the horse. There were no more hoofbeats, which meant either the rider had dismounted and was on foot, or was long gone. Hoping it was the latter but not daring to, Merlin slowly spun in a circle. His back stiffened when he felt the cold metal of a sword along his spine. How had the bandit snuck up on him?
"You're not as sneaky as you think."
Relief made Merlin wilt, and he spun with a happy smile. "Arthur!"
Arthur raised an eyebrow. "Put the sword down, Merlin. You look ridiculous."
Merlin grinned, and then noticed the person behind Arthur, not looking exceedingly happy. "Will?"
"Yes, Merlin. I would appreciate it if you didn't leave me behind next time. I had to come with this clotpole."
Arthur, who had grown disinterested as soon as Merlin had spotted his manservant, had wandered off to the camp with his horse, and Merlin quietly snickered with Will at Arthurs expense.
The two followed Arthur back to find he already sat down at the fire. Merlin joined him, while Will dropped his pack and began taking his things out behind them.
"How much further is it?" Arthur asked.
Merlin shrugged, rubbing his hands together to keep them warm. "Maybe a few hours."
"How many men does Kanen have?"
Merlin squinted. "From what Hunith said, maybe as many as forty."
Arhtur didn't comment, and Merlin stared at the ground for a few minutes before Arthur said, "You should get some rest. It's going to be a long day tomorrow."
Merlin nodded obediently, and then murmured, "Thank you. I know you didn't have to come."
Arthur rolled his eyes and then splayed his hand in Merlin hair, ruffling it. "You're my little baby brother, I couldn't let you have all the fun without me."
Merlin sighed exasperatedly, but a smile tugged at his mouth.
Arthur looked at him and then said sternly, "Get some sleep."
The next morning was bright and sunny, and the six travelers were on their way after a quick breakfast. The warm sun and chirping birds made Merlin cheerful, and he almost didn't mind that they were only traveling because of human abuse. He could almost forget it if he didn't keep an eye on Hunith, who was trying to be happy for his sake, but Merlin could see in her eyes the worry and sadness.
A little after an hour everyone mutually decided it was time to go as fast as possible, and soon the only sound was galloping hoofbeats.
A slow stream of magic was what told Merlin they were close, his show of magic to Hunith eleven years back still as strong as ever. What told the others that they were close however, was the smoke and yelling.
Merlin looked back to see that Hunith had paled.
"We need to get there!"
Arthur nodded grimly and kicked his horse, sending the poor beast into a frenzied gallop, Merlin, Morgana, Hunith, Gwen and Will close behind. As Arthur was in the lead, the first thing Merlin saw was a scraggly bandit falling to the ground with a spear in his chest. Merlin had been enough on hunts to know it was Arthur's hand doing, and he quickly copied his brother, dismounting and drawing his sword.
Arthur had already killed two bandits at this point, and Merlin, with a quick reassuring look at the girls and his servant, joined the fray.
A tall middle-aged man with chainmail stood by a hut, his eyes narrowed in anger. "Kill them!" He demanded.
More rushed at them, and Merlin stepped back, parrying the sword pointing toward his face, disarming the man and then using the hilt to knock the man to the ground. The young prince didn't have time to check if he was fully unconscious as he quickly raised his sword to block another's.
A sharp move caught Merlin's eye and he half turned, seeing Will stumble back from one of the mercenaries. Using the prince's distraction, the bandit backed Merlin into a corner of a hut, and Merlin grimaced.
Will needed help, Merlin didn't have time to fight this man. Praying no one would see him, Merlin's eyes flashed gold as he whispered "Hathian."
Merlin's opponent's eyes widened as his sword turned a bright orange, and he let out a choked scream, dropping the sword to hold his burned hand. With one smooth blow Merlin let him drop to the ground and raced over to Will, who had been facing him and raised an eyebrow at the blatant display of magic.
Slicing at the bandits' knees, Merlin smiled brilliantly at Will who looked down at the groaning mercenary.
A loud grunt that sounded like when Merlin would hit Arthur with a book compelled the young prince to spin, eyes widening when suddenly a bandit charged at his brother, who was in a duel with another man. Before Merlin's magical instinct could act on its own, however, Morgana materialized in front of the man and disposed of him.
A splitting grin combined with sparkling eyes convinced Merlin that Morgana was having a grand old time. Morgana laughed and danced away from Arthur with the passing comment, "Bring back memories of when I used to beat you?"
Arthur's mouth opened in an offended snort. "That never happened." He looked over to Merlin, seeking agreement.
Merlin shrugged, the sword in his hand almost impaling Will, who stood next to him. "Arthur, I know one hundred percent you didn't win all the time."
Before Arthur could retort, the man who had given the orders to kill them mounted his horse, his features twisted in an angry scowl. He was the only mercenary still alive.
"You'll pay for this with your lives, all of you!" He shouted, galloping out of the tiny village.
Merlin watched him go, anger boiling in his chest.
"Still think you need to save me using magic?" Will said, his arms folded and his eyes narrowed. "Look, I thought I told you I didn't want your help."
Merlin turned to stare at him. Will had never told him that. "I was saving your-"
Will's face had broken into a grin and Merlin rolled his eyes, smiling as well. "Seems like being home has lifted your spirits."
Will raised his eyebrows. "And you were going to leave me behind."
The sheepish grin on Merlin's face made him look like a young teenager who had spent the night and morning at the library.
"Merlin!"
Arthur's call made him turn. Arthur was surrounded by a few villagers, who looked awed and nervous at the same time.
"Gather the villagers, I need to talk to them."
"I'm your brother, not your servant, Arthur!"
"Now, Merlin. There isn't much time." Arthur started walking to a large barn.
"Prat." The younger prince mumbled.
Will rolled his eyes, though Merlin noticed a tightening to them, and went off to call some of the villagers who were walking the wrong way.
Merlin joined Arthur, who had stood upon a crate behind the barn. The villagers, including Hunith and Gwen, murmured in front of him. There were about fifty of them, peasants with drab clothes that looked like they had been worn throughout the entire winter. That might actually be true, Merlin thought grimly.
Arthur spoke loudly, quelling the murmurs. "I know Kanen's kind. He'll be back. And when he is, we must be ready for him. First of all, we have to prepare-"
A sudden voice rang out, interrupting Arthur. "Am I the only one wondering who the heck this is?"
A boy around their age who stood next to Will had his arm on his waist, looking angry.
Arthur didn't blink. They'd had their share of angry peasants before.
"I'm Prince Arthur of Camelot."
The boy scoffed. "Yeah, and I'm Prince Liam of Ealdor."
Merlin waited half a second for Will to nudge the boy, who was obviously his friend, and get him under control, but Will was instead blankly staring forward. Merlin's brow furrowed.
"Keep quiet. He's here to help us." It was Hunith who came to Arthurs defense, and Merlin sent a grateful smile her way.
"He's made things worse. Kanen will be back. And when he is, he'll be looking for revenge."
To Merlin's further suspicions, the boy glanced at Will before he continued. "You've just signed our death warrant."
Hunith didn't back down. "He saved Matthew's life."
"It's all right, Hunith." Arthur said, holding up a hand. Despite the insults, Arthur looked as calm and regal as ever. "This is his village. What would you have us do?"
The question, and implications of it, made Liam pause.
"We can't fight against Kanen, he has too many men." He started.
Arthur pursed his lips. "So what's the alternative?"
"We give him what he wants."
"Then what?"
Liam's words have stirred the crowd. Despite being a force of only fifty, it was clear they wanted to fight back.
Arthur looked over the village. "Those of you who don't starve to death will face him again next harvest, and the harvest after that."
Liam realized he was losing the people. "We'll manage; we'll survive." He said, anger leaking into his voice.
"How?" Matthew, a tall peasant who had almost been killed earlier, tightened his grip on his wife's arm.
Arthur took control. "The only way he can be stopped is if you stand up to him."
Liam growled. "No. You just want the honor and glory of battle. That's what drives men like you."
To Merlin's astonishment, Will, subconsciously or not, was slightly nodding along.
Liam stepped closer to the crown prince. "Look, if you want to fight, then go home and risk the lives of your own people, not ours."
With those final words, Liam glared at Arthur one more time and ran off. Will watched him go.
"I'll follow you." Hunith said without hesitation. Her eyes flickered to Merlin. "If I'm to die, then I want to go out fighting."
"That goes for me too." Matthew agreed.
The rest of the villagers acquiesced, and Merlin let a tiny grin from on his face, despite the disappointment welling in his chest.
Merlin sought out Will immediately after. He was walking towards a small shed, and Merlin quickened his pace to catch him. "Will, we need to talk."
His servant didn't make eye contact. "I'm busy, sire."
"This is important."
Will, knowing he couldn't refuse his prince, sighed and motioned toward the shed. Although, maybe Will only agreed because Merlin wouldn't have let him go until he got what he wanted.
As soon as they were in the shed, Merlin said softly, "Is Liam your friend?"
Will nodded stiffly.
Merlin bit his lip, waiting for Will to offer more information, but when he didn't, Merlin continued. "Arthur knows what he's doing. You've got to trust him."
Will held his silence.
Merlin's eyes narrowed. "You have to respect what Arthur stands for-"
"I know what he stands for - princes, kings, all men like him."
At Merlin's raised eyebrow, Will said grudgingly, "You're the only prince I ever really liked."
The younger prince looked down, thankful for the compliment but not dwelling on it. "Will." He said gently. "Don't bring what happened to your father into this."
Will turned, anger lacing his voice. "I'm not. I've been waiting for you to influence him, but every time something happens he shows his true colors. He doesn't care about anyone, not even you. Almost every single 'adventure' with him you're hurt. He makes fun of you and bullies you. He mistreats his servants. When Hunith pleaded for help, Arthur didn't try to assist, he even tried to stop you. The only reason he's here is because he wants glory and honor. He's an arrogant brat."
Merlin's face was blank. He had no idea Will felt this way. "He's my brother, of course he bullies me, it's practically his job."
"He treats you like a servant, shown earlier today."
"He isn't always like that, it's just because-"
"Because he's in front of people and needs glory and honor. Case in point."
Merlin just shook his head.
Will scoffed. "Let's wait until the fighting starts and see who he sends in to die first. I guarantee you it won't be him."
Hearing what Will really meant, Merlin leaned forward. "I trust Arthur with my life."
"And yet how long has it taken him to accept your magic? Even now he still sometimes thinks sorcerers are evil. Face it, Merlin, you're nothing but a little brother to dote on him."
Merlin drew back, unsure of what to say to make Will see Arthur as the Arthur he knew. Before he could try though, Will stormed out the shed, leaving Merlin alone and confused.
"How do you know Hunith?"
"Hmm?" Merlin murmured sleepily. It was dark, and the two brothers, Morgana and Gwen were in a large room lit only by the crackling fire in the middle.
Arthur repeated his question. "How did you meet Hunith?"
"I never told you?"
"No."
"Well…" Merlin sighed and shifted. "I was around eleven summers. I was following some friends into the woods one day to play Knights Hunts, but I ended up getting lost, and I scratched myself on thorns so I was bleeding a bit. I was alone for a whole day, lost and scared. I think I was sitting on the forest floor, crying, when Hunith found me and took me back to her village. I told her my name and she figured out who I was. Then…" Merlin hesitated, unsure if Gwen was asleep. "Well, my talents weren't very controlled back then and she found out. She didn't care though."
There was silence for a moment before Arthur spoke. "I think I vaguely remember you missing for three days. Father was worried sick."
Merlin, still reeling from Will's words, noticed the absence of I was worried sick, and felt disgusted by his thoughts.
"Did you know Gaius and Hunith are actually related?" Merlin said suddenly.
"Really?"
Merlin hummed. "She's his niece."
There was another silence, and then,"We'll start training the men tomorrow." Arthur declared. "It's going to be a long day."
The two brothers shifted, and not a minute later Merlin heard Arthur snoring. He sighed and closed his eyes.
The next morning they were up early, which wasn't a problem for Merlin, who had started his day early for years, but it was a problem for Arthur, who always slept until the last minute. After breakfast and getting ready, Merlin decided not to wait for the others, and headed into the nearby forest. He needed some time without Arthur's complaints about the simple life. After piling a large stack of wood, he brought to the platform where Arthur had stood the day before, and seeing Arthur, Morgana, and Gwen out next to the well, decided to check in on Hunith.
She turned as he walked in, and Merlin noticed the bruise on her cheekbone and eye was still a raging purple.
"Good morning, Merlin."
"Morning Hunith. How is your eye?"
Hunith's hand twitched like she wanted to touch it, but she resisted the urge. "A bother, but it's bearable." She sighed.
Merlin frowned, and laid his hand gently on it, murmuring a soft "sorry," when she winced. Merlin didn't know a great deal of healing magic, and every time he tried he never succeeded much, but he could at least try to get the swelling down. Reaching deep in his gut, he let the flow of magic wash over him and through his hand. When he dropped his hand, the skin was no longer inflamed, and the bruise was now more red instead of purple.
Hunith smiled. "Thank you."
"It's not completely healed. I am disastrous at healing magic."
"I know." She said, and Merlin grinned remembering his attempts at the thorn scratches, so long ago. "Are you hungry?" She asked. "Arthur didn't finish his breakfast."
Merlin shook his head.
A pause, before: "He must care for you a great deal."
Merlin shrugged. "Arthur would do the same for any village. That's just the way he is."
Hunith shook her head. "It's more than that. He's here for you."
For a moment Merlin wondered if she had overheard his and Will's conversation.
"He's my older brother." Merlin just said simply.
Arthur met up with Merlin a few minutes later. "There you are. We're about to start training the men."
Merlin nodded silently.
Arthur shifted his weight then said softly, "you'd be able to defeat Kanen on your own, wouldn't you?"
Merlin shrugged. He hadn't tested his magic before. "I don't know my limits. Never tried to."
Arthur nodded. "Well…when we fight, if you can do anything without anyone seeing…we need all the help we can get, alright?"
Merlin tilted his head. "You don't think these men will be enough?"
Arthur just grimaced, and walked up to the men. Merlin followed.
"I won't be able to teach you everything there is to know about fighting with a sword. But you can learn the basics - the stance, how to parry a blow, how to land your own. We'll split into two groups. I'll take one, and my brother Merlin will take the other." His hand landed on Merlin's shoulder and he nodded at the men. "We'll learn the stance first."
It took about an hour to get the stance somewhat ingrained in their heads. To properly learn it that it came without a thought took months, but they didn't have that time. As soon as all the men could jump into stance without stumbling, or misplacing their feet, Merlin nodded. Once Arthur was satisfied as well, they started on defense.
The men stood in lines, a pole in their hands. It was already midday, and Arthur was starting to get antsy. The villagers were not prepared enough in the short amount of time they had.
"This isn't going to work." Arthur hissed to Merlin.
"What do you want to do?"
Arthur shook his head. "I don't know. I don't know how to make them learn quicker."
Merlin sighed, relaxing his tense hold on his sword's hilt. "We can't. We just have to hope Kanen will take longer getting men together."
Yet that came with its own problem. The more time Kanen spent gathering men meant more bandits, most likely more they could deal with.
Arthur grunted and continued with his lesson. "Now you may have to watch for the feint. So keep your feet moving and only stay in range long enough to land your blow."
A few nodded, and Arthur hoped everyone else understood. "Again. One, two, three, four. One, two, three, four."
After a few rounds, Arthur stepped up to Matthew, who kept dropping his pole. "Matthew, I want you to organize sentry duty, to keep an eye out for Kanen and his men."
The peasant nodded. "I'll be glad to."
"If there's any sign of attack, I want you to ride straight back here. I don't want you fighting him all on your own."
Matthew let out a quick laugh, nodded eagerly the entire time, and then took off.
One break later, Merlin was dipping his cup into the bucket of the well when Morgana stepped up to him. "Looks like the battle's already fought and lost."
Merlin looked at her, then at Gwen who silently joined her. "I agree."
Arthur stalked over to them, grabbing the cup from Merlin and taking a long drink. "How're we doing for weapons?" He asked the two girls.
"There isn't much, but we should be able to scrape together what you need."
Morgana paused, and Gwen spoke up, hands slightly fidgeting with her wool jacket. "It's not the weapons we're worried about. It's having enough people to use them."
Arthur half turned to her, and Gwen took it as a sign to continue, with a glance at Morgana. "We think the women should be allowed to fight. You don't have enough men."
Merlin raised his eyebrows. It was noble of the two to offer to fight, but Morgana should know Arthur would never allow it.
"If they were trained soldiers, maybe you'd stand a chance." Morgana added. "But they're not."
Arthur put down the cup. He glanced at Merlin, and his eyes seemed to be almost amused, as if the two women were making a joke. "It's too dangerous." he said, and strode back to the men.
Mogana sighed. "Merlin? Knock some sense into him."
Merlin groaned. "Everyone always asks me to do that."
The king's ward looked exasperated. "I wonder why."
Late that night Merlin practically collapsed into his bed. He couldn't sleep however, his mind kept getting stuck on the fact that the men were nowhere near ready.
A soft mumble made him open his eyes. It was Gwen, saying his very thoughts aloud. "We don't stand a chance.
Morgana responded in the same whispery tone. "Arthur can't see that. He's too stubborn."
"Why do you think he came here?" Gwen asked.
"The same reason we did - Merlin."
Merlin stared at his hand in front of face, wondering why this conversation kept coming up.
"Arthur may act like he doesn't care," Morgana continued, "But he wouldn't be here if he didn't."
Merlin huffed silently in his head and wished the thoughts away. He could think about it later.
The next day passed in a blur, filled with training and hopeless thoughts. At lunch, Arthur held a meeting in the barn. He was leaning against a wall, Merlin next to him, the villagers in front.
"We're not going to be able to defend Ealdor with sword and sinew alone. We're going to need a plan. We need to find some way of limiting their mobility and drawing them into a trap. If we fight them on their terms, then-"
Arthur was cut off by a loud scream, and everyone snapped their heads to the sound. Arthur moved first, rushing towards the door. Merlin followed, heart pounding. That scream had been one of pure despair.
The scream had been from Matthew's wife. She was running to a galloping horse, and Merlin's heart sank. On the horse was Matthew himself, haphazardly strewn across it with an arrow in his back.
"Get him down from there." Arthur ordered, and when he was on the ground, Merlin saw it was not just an arrow. There was parchment attached to it, like a small tablecloth covering Matthews back.
Matthew was dead. His wife collapsed next to him, sobbing. Arthur very gently knelt down and put a hand on her arm, then ripped the parchment from the arrow.
"What does it say?" Merlin breathed.
"'Make the most of this day. It will be your last.'"
"You did this." A voice accused, and Merlin's heart fell. It was not Liam this time. It was Will. "Look what you've done, you've killed him."
Arthur looked shocked that Will was saying these words, but Merlin could detect the guilt that slid over his face. Merlin clenched his fists. Will had stepped too far. "It wasn't his fault," Merlin said angrily.
Will wasn't deterred. "If he hadn't been strutting around treating this like his own personal army, it'd never have happened."
Arthur's eyes glinted. "These men are brave enough to fight for what they believe in even if you aren't."
"You're sending them to their graves."
Arthur looked down at Matthew, his wife clutching at the dead man's clothes.
"You've killed one man. How many more need to die before you realize this is a battle that can't be won?"
Merlin didn't know what to say, and neither did the crowd. Will kept going.
"When Kanen comes, you haven't got a chance. You're going to be slaughtered."
Arthur's vulnerable eyes watched Will go.
Merlin found Will in the shed they had talked in earlier. He was stuffing things in his bags. When he saw the prince, Will said quickly, "Don't bother, Merlin. I'm not interested."
Merlin narrowed his eyes in anger. "You should be, because tomorrow Kanen attacks, and whether you like it or not, we'll have to fight."
"Not if I'm not here."
Merlin opened his mouth but no words came out. He stared at Will for a moment before saying,"You're quitting?"
Will didn't respond. Merlin sighed. The anger had left, and now all he had was resignation.
"Well," Merlin said, letting the disappointment flow through his words. "That's up to you. But the rest of us are staying."
When the words still didn't get any reaction, Merlin stalked forward. "Join us, Will," he pleaded. "This isn't about Arthur. This is about your friends. Are you really going to abandon them?"
Will finally looked up. "What, like you did?"
Merlin furrowed his brows in confusion.
"I'm not the one abandoning my friends, Merlin. You are."
Will, once again, walked out. Merlin groaned, ducking his head. How had this happened? How had he abandoned his friends? The only friends he really had were Arthur, Morgana, Will and Gwen. And they were all here. Maybe he needed to talk to Arthur.
Merlin found Arthur sharpening his sword with a stone, sitting on a wooden bench. Merlin pushed him over and sat next to him.
Arthur's voice was grim. "I didn't know Will felt that way about me."
Merlin played with his hands. "Will's father was killed fighting for King Cenred. So he doesn't trust anyone of nobility."
Arthur looked at him. Merlin sighed. "Apparently I'm the only exception."
"Do you think the villagers believed him?" Arthur asked.
Merlin smiled slightly. "No. He's always been a troublemaker. I'm sure they're used to ignoring him."
Arthur stopped sharpening his sword and turned minutely to Merlin. "And if he's right?"
Merlin met his eyes, sincerity clear. "He isn't."
Frustration was clear in his next words. "I'm treating these men like soldiers and they're not. You've seen them fight. They haven't got a clue."
Merlin didn't know what to say.
"We need to tell them all to leave the village before Kanen returns."
Merlin leaned forward. "No. We're going to stay. We're going to fight. And we're going to win."
Arthur didn't say anything.
"All you need to do is get the men ready for battle and the rest will take care of itself."
"The entire village can't depend on you, Merlin." Arthur said tiredly.
"I'll try. But, Arthur, you have to believe in them. Because if you don't, then they'll sense it, and the battle will be lost before it's even begun."
Arthur took a deep breath. "Alright." He looked at Merlin and smiled. "I'm glad you're here."
Merlin forcibly stopped himself from wondering if he was glad for his presence, or Merlin's magic.
That night, the village gathered in the barn again, this time a roaring fire in the middle, with Arthur pacing around it. The peasants were seated, most close to the flame with shawls wrapped around them. Merlin stood against the wall, watching.
"This time tomorrow, the women and children should gather what belongings they can carry and go to the woods."
"We're not going anywhere." Gwen argued, stepping forward, her tone holding no nervousness.
Arthur turned to look at her, surprised, then leaned on his sword, and said gently, "I know you want to help, but the women can't stay here. It's too dangerous."
"The women have as much as a right to fight for their lives as the men do."
Arthur sighed. "None of you know how to fight."
Gwen didn't back down, and Merlin was secretly proud of her. "The more of us there are, the better chance we stand."
All the women stood slightly more forward, showing their agreement without saying a word.
Arthur shifted his weight, stared into the fire, and said finally, "This is your home. If you want to fight to defend it, that's your choice. I'd be honored to stand alongside you."
Merlin raised his eyebrows at Morgana as Arthur continued to talk. She grinned triumphantly at him. He didn't think they could convince the crown prince, but evidently he was wrong. That, or Arthur didn't want Gwen fighting him in a room full of people.
"Kanen will be here tomorrow. He is brutal. He fights only to kill. Which is why he will never defeat us."
There were a few confused glances thrown at him.
"Look around. In this circle, we're all equals. You're not fighting because someone's ordering you to. You're fighting for so much more than that. You fight for your homes."
Everyone's attention was on Arthur. With the firelight dancing on his skin, Arthur looked like a king, despite being dressed only in a red tunic that was stained with mud. In fact, Arthur's hair wasn't even combed. Merlin stuffed his thoughts into a chest in the back of his mind, and continued listening.
"You fight for your family. You fight for your friends. You fight for the right to grow crops in peace. And if you fall, you fall fighting for the noblest of causes - fighting for your very right to survive. When you're old and gray, you'll look back on this day and you'll know you earned the right to live every day in between."
Merlin's lips slowly turned upwards. This speech was proving every word Will said about Arthur wrong. It wasn't just a speech. Arthur believed the words with his whole heart, soul and mind. The sincerity glinted in his eyes.
"So you fight for your family, for your friends," Arthur raised his sword. "For Ealdor!"
The village rose, pushing their poles and swords upwards, repeating his words. "Ealdor!"
Merlin joined them, his eyes golden in the firelight.
The morning of Kanen's attack was oddly peaceful. Arthur's speech the night before had not faded, and the villagers had determined looks on their faces, doing whatever Arthur told them to do. Will, Merlin noticed, was not anywhere to be found. He had spotted the servant in the very back of the room last night, but since then, he had disappeared. Maybe he really had run away. Merlin wasn't sure what he would do without Will as his manservant. Who would he hire?
The young prince hacked a tree. Arthur had dragged him into the forest for firewood, and he had decided to use an ax, despite the fact he knew he could fell the tree with his magic. Merlin found he desperately needed to hit something.
Arthur was opposite him, targeting a young, thin birch.
"Arthur?"
The two brothers turned in unison to see Gwen walking toward the eldest, holding a bowl of gruel.
"Arthur, Hunith made you some food."
The crown prince hesitated, before taking the bowl and saying,"Thanks."
Gwen turned, a happy smile on her face, but that quickly disappeared when Arthur opened his mouth and added, "I think."
Merlin resisted the urge to slap his forehead and instead made his way over to his brother's side as Gwen started her rant.
"Food is scarce for these people. You shouldn't turn your nose up at it."
Arthur stared at her, and Gwen realized what she had said, and the tone of it. She quickly lowered her eyes. "Oh no, I shouldn't have spoken to you like that. I'm sorry."
"Gwen."
She started walking away hurriedly. "I'm sorry. I don't know what I was thinking. It won't happen again."
Arthur rolled his eyes. "Guinevere."
Merlin raised his eyebrows in surprise. He didn't know Arthur knew the maid's full name.
She stopped stiffly, and spun slowly.
"Thank you. You're right. And you were right to speak up. I should've listened to you and Morgana."
"Hello? I am also right here." Merlin said.
"Shut up, Merlin." Arthur said without looking. "We're going to need all the help we can get."
Gwen noticed his undertone and stepped forward. "We'll be fine."
"How can you be so sure?"
"Because I have faith in you." There was an awkward pause before she corrected herself. "I mean, we all do."
Arthur jerked his head. "Thank you."
She smiled and walked away.
"I didn't know you could be so polite and chivalrous."
"Shut up, Merlin."
The room was silent as Merlin and Arthur put their armor on. Despite Merlin having the proper training fit for a prince, he was still lean and thin, so the armor hung down a lot more than Arthur's. Adding the vambrace, Merlin flinched a little as Arthur suddenly tightened the strap for him, looking for the first time in a long time, soft and vulnerable.
"Thanks," Merlin murmured, as Arthur gripped his shoulder.
"You ready?"
"My throat's dry."
Arthur gave a small smile. "Me too." He held out his arm. Merlin gripped his forearm and shook.
"It's been an honor." Arthur said, and Merlin let out a soft laugh.
Merlin suddenly reached a hand and laid it on Arthur's brow, who let out a sound and tried to swat his hand away.
"Stop it." Merlin hissed, and then closed his eyes, trying to remember the words to the spell. He tugged deep in his gut, and Merlin opened his eyes, incanting as the warmness that was his magic flowed through them. He lowered his hand.
"What did you do?"
"A protection spell. It isn't very strong, but your chain mail should be a little harder to get through."
Arthur was silent for a moment. "I haven't seen that in a long time."
Merlin drew his eyebrows together. "What?"
"Your eyes when you do magic. They seemed more gold than I remember."
Merlin gave him a skeptical look. He had known his eyes flashed gold when he did magic, Arthur and Morgana had noticed pretty much straight away, but Merlin hadn't exactly seen it himself. It wasn't like he did magic in a mirror.
Morgana's figure interrupted them. "Arthur, they've crossed the river." She said tersely.
The two rushed outside. Everybody was already in their designated spots, and the two brothers jogged to the fence on the skirts of the village, waiting.
It was only a minute before a crowd of bandits surged out of the trees, on horses and holding swords, daggers and bows. They charged forwards, letting out battle cries.
"Hold," Arthur demanded. "No one moves until I give the signal."
The men were in the village now, but no one was in sight, and the bandits slowed, confused. Kanen pointed forwards, and two in the back rode on.
"Hold."
"Come out, come out." Kanen said in a sing-song voice. "Wherever you are…"
Kanens men were about to enter the main path when suddenly a gate went up, scaring the horse.
Merlin smiled grimly. One trap done successfully.
Fire suddenly raced across the village, creating a wall, and the horses leaped back. Merlin grinned. Merlin had pulled Morgana aside and quickly went over the fire spell, promising she could do it. And she had. He knew she could.
"Now!" Arthur cried, and the villagers leaped forward, shouting. Villagers pulled bandits from their horses and hit them over the head until they lay dazed, and others parried like they were taught, managed to stab their opponents.
At least these are low-life bandits. Merlin thought. And not trained knights.
Spades and rakes mercilessly hit bandits, and Merlin caught sight of Gwen tripping one bandit with a broom.
Merlin dispatched bandit after bandit, and paused for a breather, wondering where these mercenaries all came from, when there was a sudden cry behind him. Merlin spun just in time to see Will leaping off a roof to land on a man on horseback.
Once Will had left the man unconscious on the ground, Merlin said breathlessly, "I didn't think you were coming."
Will grinned. "Neither did I, sire."
The two backed up to each other and continued from there, effortlessly dispatching running bandits. Suddenly there was a lull in the fighting, and Merlin turned to stand next to Will, watching as more bandits appeared. Worse, a few villagers were now scattered across the ground.
They were losing.
"There's too many of them."
Merlin grit his teeth. "Not for me, there isn't." Quickly spinning to check if anyone was watching, Merlin held his hand out to the ground and incanted, "Cume þoden."
The dust stirred, and as Merlin raised his hand, the whirlwind increased, blowing his hair into his eyes. Merlin thrust it toward the bandits, and the horses took off, dragging the bandits with them. Other bandits were taken by the wind and flew to the ground, landing hard. The wind dissipated soon after, and Merlin let a thrilling grin spread across his face. With their numbers greatly diminished, the remaining bandits fled, running across the field into the forest, some trying to catch their horses for a faster escape, others letting terror rule their minds.
There were cheers all around, and Merlin caught sight of Gwen and Morgana hugging. Merlin looked back at Arthur, and he smiled, then winked at him.
Kanen was not done with them, however. "Pendragon," he roared, stepping into the village holding a crossbow. Both brothers turned, but it was clear Arthur was the one Kanen had issues with. He took off his helmet, and Arthur raised his sword.
They charged at each other, but Merlin wasn't worried. Kanen was no match for a crown prince who had been trained since five years of age. Kanen was decent, though, and it took a minute for Arthur to deal the fatal blow. Kanen had made the mistake of lowering his shield, and without hesitation, Arthur stabbed the bandit through his chest. Kanen choked, then fell to his knees, eventually slumping to the ground. Arthur spared a disgusted glance at the man before striding forward to Merlin and Will.
"Will." Arthur greeted, his face blank.
"My lord." Will responded, his face tilted to the ground. "I'm…really sorry for what I said."
Merlin placed his hand on Will's shoulder. "This talk definitely needs to happen, but let's not do it now, the village needs to-"
Merlin was interrupted by Will's sharp "look out!" before Arthur was tackled to the ground by the servant, knocking Merlin over as well. There was a plink, and Merlin's face paled. He knew that sound. Scrambling to his feet, Merlin shouted, "Will!"
The servant was on his knees, an arrow piercing his chest, though thankfully not completely through. Merlin fell to his knees, holding the servant upright, and suddenly Arthur was there, gently lowering him to the ground.
Amid Will's painful grunts, Arthur said, once more astounded, "You saved my life."
"Yeah, I don't know what I was thinking." Will's shaky voice made Merlin's heart pinch with fear.
The familiar retort snapped Merlin out of shock, and he yelled to the watching villagers, "Come on, get him inside!"
Together, Arthur and Merlin grabbed Will and hurriedly carried him inside to the nearest hut, resting him on the table in the middle.
Morgana, Gwen and Hunith stood back, watching.
"You owe me, Merlin." Will gasped, his eyes meeting Merlin's, though they were starting to get glassy. "I only saved him - because now you-" Will choked on air. "-You won't have to be king."
Merlin let out a humorless laugh.
Arthur blinked. "Thank you, Will." He looked up at Merlin, murmured "do what you can for him," and then walked over to the girls, leading them out.
Merlin's eyes had welled with tears, and he hastily wiped them away.
Will suddenly grinned, though it was more of a grimace, and said, "I was right about him. Told you he was going to get me killed."
Merlin shook his head and leaned closer, laying a hand on his head. "You're not going to die."
Will didn't look away. "You're a good man, Merlin - a great man. And one day, you're going to be the brother of a great king."
Merlin closed his eyes in grief. "Thank you Will, you're a great friend. I couldn't have helped Arthur without you."
Will was trembling, his sharp intakes of air gradually becoming slower. "It was an honor serving you."
Merlin's hands shook as he caressed his servant's hair.
"Merlin-" Will choked. "Merlin, I'm scared."
Merlin's face was furrowed with anguish. "It's going to be alright," He promised, his voice shaking.
"Merlin," Will uttered one more time, before stilling. His face relaxed, and his chest was stationary. With a choked gasp, Merlin realized Will was dead. His eyes, which had been glazed with pain, were now glazed with something else entirely.
Merlin bowed his head, small sobs escaping him as tears ran down his nose. Will was dead.
That night the village stood in the grassy field, silent and sorrowful. Twelve people had died, which was remarkably less than what Merlin had thought, but still far too many. Will was one of them. The funeral pyre was blazing towards the sky, and Merlin could feel the heat even from where he was standing next to Arthur.
"I'm sorry." Arthur said softly. "I know he was a close friend."
Merlin's breath caught. "He still is."
"He was a brave servant." Arthur was silent and then gently rubbed Merlin's shoulder.
Morgana stepped up next to him. "He was a good man." She said simply, before giving him a quick hug and a kiss on the forehead.
Merlin didn't know how long he stood there for, but Hunith's voice suddenly snapped him out of his thoughts. "You had better be going."
She rubbed his arm.
He turned to her. "Would you come back to Camelot with me?"
She smiled sadly. "My place is here, Merlin."
"If anything happens to you-"
"I know where to find you."
She looked up at him. "You need him, and he needs you. You're like two sides of the same coin."
Merlin narrowed his eyes in thought. "I've heard someone say that about us before." He looked into her brilliant blue eyes, and then said, "I'm going to miss you."
He hugged her then, laying his head on her shoulder, and she returned it. "I'm going to miss you too," She said, love clear in her voice. "When I met you, you were just a boy. Now look at you. I'm so proud of you."
Merlin smiled slightly. Hunith reached up and kissed his forehead, the same spot Morgana had.
"Goodbye." Merlin said, and then walked through the long grass to where Arthur, Morgana and Gwen were, ready to go home.
"Goodbye." Hunith whispered, watching him go. She couldn't wait to see what kind of man Merlin would change Arthur into.
A/N: Wowwww that took a long time. Mostly, as I said in the previous chapter, because of the end of school, and a month long trip across the world. This episode is actually really good, and I didn't mind writing it.
Thank you SO much to all those who commented and followed, it makes my day every time I get an email. Thank you especially to those who had suggestions on how to write this episode, they helped a lot!
I hope you like the chapter, and have a great day/night!