Fic: Death Cannot Stop True Love - Part 6
Feb. 20th, 2013 12:39 am![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
geeklover80Part 5
Arthur walked to his room utterly defeated. There was no reasoning with his father. Uther announced that he would assemble Lord Godwin, Elena, and several other important members of society and Arthur was to propose the very next day. He felt more trapped than ever before.
He was surprised to find Morgana waiting in his room. "Morgana, what are you doing here? Where's Elena?"
"She's getting settled in her room." Morgana sauntered over to him. "What is it, Arthur? You look more distressed than I've ever seen you."
Arthur ran both hands through his hair and exhaled loudly. He moved over to his bed and sat down heavily. "Father wants me to marry, Elena."
Morgana walked over and clutched one of Arthur's bedposts. "Is that really a surprise? Uther's been grooming you for marriage since you could walk."
Arthur shrugged. "I don't know. I suppose I just never believed he would actually make me go through with it."
"Elena's perfectly nice."
"I know she is!" Arthur snapped. He threw his head back. "I'm sorry, Morgana. Elena is perfectly nice. But I don’t want perfectly nice for a wife.”
Morgana grinned. “Perhaps you don’t want a wife at all.”
Arthur shook his head. “I want to get married.”
“That’s not what I meant.” Morgana sat on the bed next to Arthur. “I think who you want is Merlin.”
Arthur spluttered in protest. “You’re completely wrong.”
“Am I?” Morgana raised an eyebrow. “I don’t think so. I’ve seen you two together. There’s something special there.”
“Morgana-
“Don’t Morgana me. Why can’t you just admit what you feel for him?”
“Because I’m not a girl. I don’t talk about my feelings, especially when there’s no point.”
“Ah ha!” Morgana exclaimed. “Then you admit you have feelings for Merlin?”
“Many feelings – frustration, annoyance, exasperation…” Arthur listed them off on his fingers.
“Adoration.” Morgana grinned.
Arthur crossed his arms in front of his chest. “You’re relentless. You’re not going to give up are you?”
Morgana shook her head.
“Alright.” Arthur took a deep breath. “I care about him a great deal.” Arthur threw his head in his hands.
Morgana squealed. “This is a good thing, Arthur.”
Arthur whipped his head up to face her. “It is not a good thing, Morgana. Nothing can happen between us. I have to marry a woman. I have to have a queen.”
“Who says?”
“My father, ancient tradition.” Arthur groaned. “I don’t know what I’m going to do.”
Morgana put her arms around him. “What you’re going to do, little brother, is follow your heart.”
~*~
Merlin looked up from the tonic he was mixing, and dropped vial when he saw Morgana standing in Edwin’s house. “Morgana, what are you doing here?”
“Where’s Edwin?”
“He’s off gathering herbs.” Merlin answered, carefully placing the vial down.
“Isn’t that your job?”
Merlin nodded. “Yes, but Edwin said there were specific ingredients that only he was trained to deal with it. I didn’t really question it. I don’t really like being around Edwin very much.”
“That’s unfortunate since you have to work for him.”
Merlin shrugged. “Is there something you needed? Do you need more of that sleeping draught?”
“No. I just wanted to invite you to a celebration we’re having at the castle. I know you don’t really like fancy events, but this is more of an informal celebration.” Morgana explained.
“Why do you want me to come?”
“It’s a celebration for Lord Godwin and Elena. She’s a very sweet girl and I think that you would like her. Also, Arthur’s been complaining about not getting to spend time with you.”
“Then why doesn’t he ask me himself?” Merlin felt that there was something Morgana was keeping from him.
“You know, Arthur. He’d rather suffer in silence than admit he misses you.” Morgana smiled.
Merlin smiled tightly. “That is just like him.”
Morgana moved in closer. “Will you come?”
Merlin hesitated. He sighed. He figured he might as well say yes. It wouldn’t do any harm. “Alright.”
Morgana grinned widely. “Good. I think you’ll really enjoy meeting Elena.”
~*~
Arthur’s knees were shaking. He was dressed in his official ceremonial clothes. He had on his crown and everything felt very real. He couldn’t believe he was about to propose to some girl he barely knew. He turned and looked at his father behind him, who was speaking excitedly with Lord Godwin.
To his right, Morgana was standing with Gwen. He smiled weakly at Morgana. She had assured him that Merlin would be working with Edwin, gathering herbs. Arthur had wanted to tell Merlin about the proposal, but he couldn’t bring himself to do it.
Arthur looked back to in front of him where his knights and other assorted friends of his father were. The doors in the back of the room opened and Elena walked in, looking almost as nervous as Arthur. Arthur began to fidget even more.
Elena came to stand awkwardly beside him. Arthur tried to remember the speech he had prepared. “I’m honored to be standing before you today in the presence of our dear friend, Lord Godwin,” Arthur turned and motioned stiffly behind him, “and his wonderful daughter, Elena.” He smiled at her. She smiled back, but the smile didn’t reach her eyes.
“The people of this kingdom are very dear to me. This place is my life. I hope one day to continue the good work of my father,” Arthur motioned to Uther. “And to make Camelot a place of peace and happiness.” Everyone in the room clapped.
Just then, Merlin walked in through the open doors at the back. The guards almost stopped him, but soon recognized him and let him in. He walked in slowly and stayed in the back. Arthur felt the breath leave his body. What was Merlin doing here? He couldn’t continue. He had to stop this somehow. But when he gazed back at his father, and saw the stern look on his face, he knew stopping was out of the question.
Arthur looked down at his feet, anywhere but in Merlin’s direction. “It is my sincerest hope that you,” He turned to Elena, “Princess Elena, share these dreams.”
Arthur swallowed down the bile rising in his throat and slowly got down on one knee. “With this in mind, I would like to ask you to do me the honor of becoming my…wife.” He tripped over the last word.
He didn’t miss the look of fear in Elena’s eyes. She paused for a long moment before whispering, “Yes.”
Everyone in the room cheered. Arthur got up slowly. Elena was wringing her hands. He dared to look where Merlin stood. Arthur’s heart broke at the determined look on Merlin’s face. He was standing tall, with his chin jutted out. But Arthur could see the heartbreak in Merlin’s eyes. He was sure it matched his own. Merlin nodded stiffly at Arthur and then left the room quickly.
Arthur was actually grateful when his father and Lord Godwin came over to offer their congratulations. He would welcome any distraction to keep him from picturing that look in Merlin’s eyes.
~*~
Merlin packed hurriedly. He didn’t have many possessions here, but Gwen had provided him with a few new shirts and some horrible looking neck scarves and he didn’t want to be rude and leave any of it behind. He had no idea where he was going, but he couldn’t stay at the castle anymore. He’d be damned if he would watch Arthur with his new bride.
Damn Arthur for not telling him this news directly. Damn Arthur for making him care so much. Perhaps being alone in a cave would be better than feeling like this.
Merlin stopped his bustling around when he heard a tentative knock on his door. He knew who it was without needing to ask. “Come in.”
Arthur walked in slowly. He stood by the door, not coming into the room very far. Merlin ignored him while he packed. “You’re leaving.”
“Excellent observation skills. I can see why you’re such a great hunter.”
“Merlin, I’m sorry that…”
“Don’t be sorry.” Merlin finally gazed in Arthur’s direction, though he still couldn’t look at his face. “You’re getting married. It’s a happy time.” He put on a fake smile. “Congratulations.”
“Merlin, this isn’t my idea. But I have to do this for the good of the kingdom. It’s my duty.”
Merlin picked up his small bag and slung it over his back. “You don’t owe me any explanations. You don’t owe me anything.”
Arthur finally moved in closer. He made a tentative move to touch Merlin’s arm, but he pulled back. “I owe you so much, Merlin.”
“You don’t have to help me find out what happened to my father. I know that he’s dead, and if I need to find out anything more, I’ll do it myself.”
“Where will you go?” Arthur whispered.
“I think Gwen will let me stay with her for a little while. I’ll figure out something to do after that.” Merlin finally looked up into Arthur’s face. “Good-bye, Arthur.”
Merlin brushed passed Arthur.
“Merlin!”
Merlin stopped with his hand on the door handle. He didn’t turn back to look at Arthur.
“I wish things could have been different.”
“Me, too.”
Merlin rushed out of the room. He didn’t let the tears fall until he was safely out of the castle.
~*~
Morgana laughed loudly. She had just seen Merlin sprinting away from the castle. Her plan had been a success. She knew if she played Uther just right, he couldn’t help being the tyrant that he is and separating Arthur and Merlin. She barely had to lift a finger. Now that Merlin was out of her hair she could focus on destroying Uther and Arthur.
She turned to her mirror. “Things have finally worked out, haven’t they?”
“I wouldn’t be so sure.”
Morgana’s eyes narrowed. “What does that mean? Merlin is gone, is he not?”
“For now,’ the mirror said, sounding far too pleased for Morgana’s liking. “It seems that all of your plotting may have backfired. Arthur now knows what he truly desires. He will not give up.”
Morgana groaned. “That’s it. I am done playing nice. If I can’t keep Arthur away from Merlin, I’ll just have to remove Merlin permanently.” She cocked her head to the side. “But before he dies, I think Merlin will prove very useful to me.”
~*~
Arthur sat by the window, looking out periodically, but mainly staring at his mother’s sigil. He kept thinking about what he’d told Merlin about giving the sigil to the woman he married. He ran his thumb across the bird in the middle of the sigil. He couldn’t imagine giving this to Elena. He couldn’t imagine giving it to anyone but Merlin.
“I love Merlin.” He covered his mouth. He’d never said that, even in his own head. “I love Merlin.” He started to laugh. “I love Merlin.”
Arthur had spent so much trying to suppress his feeling, just saying it out loud filled him with relief. He felt happier than he had in a long time. More than anything, he wanted to find Merlin and tell him how he felt. He wanted to be with him.
Of course there was still the problem of his father and his engagement to Elena. He knew his father couldn’t be reasoned with. But he couldn’t go through with it.
Perhaps he and Merlin could run away together. Camelot had been Arthur’s entire life, but he realised he would happily give up the throne and this life to start something new with Merlin.
Arthur suddenly realised he was getting ahead of himself. What if Merlin didn’t feel the same as him? He didn’t really doubt Merlin’s feelings. He didn’t think Merlin would have reacted to the proposal so strongly if he didn’t love Arthur back. But Arthur had to be sure and then there was only one way to find out.
Arthur rushed over to Gwen’s house. He hoped he wouldn’t be disturbing her, but he had to speak to Merlin. He knocked on her door. Arthur was a bit impatient and barely waited a few seconds before knocking again.
“Who’s there?” She called out.
“It’s Arthur.”
Gwen gasped. “Prince Arthur?” Gwen quickly opened the door. “Sire, what are you doing here?”
“I came to talk to Merlin.”
Gwen raised an eyebrow. “Merlin?”
“I know that he may not want to speak with me, but you have to let me see him. It’s very important.”
Gwen gaped at him. “Arthur, Merlin isn’t here.”
“What?”
“He came to see me yesterday after you proposed to Princess Elena and he said good-bye.”
“Oh, no.” Arthur rubbed a hand back and forth across his eye. “Do you think he went back to the caves?”
Gwen shrugged. “He might have.”
“Gwen, I need you to do something for me.”
Gwen eyed him warily. “I would do it myself, but my father will be keeping a close eye on me for the next few days. I need you to get word to Merlin and tell him I need to talk to him urgently.”
Gwen sighed. “Arthur, I know you’re the prince and you can force me to do this, but please don’t ask me to do anything that’s going to hurt Merlin further. You’ve already broken his heart.”
“I broke his heart?”
Gwen nodded.
Arthur knew it looked insensitive, but he couldn’t help the wide smile on his face. This meant that Merlin loved him, too. At Gwen’s horrified look, Arthur stopped smiling. “I’m sorry. I’m just happy to know that Merlin cares for me in the same way I feel about him.”
Gwen smiled tentatively. “You love Merlin?”
Arthur grinned. “Yes.”
Gwen squealed. She covered her mouth. “I’m sorry, sire.”
Arthur laughed. “It’s alright. Can you help me, Gwen?”
Gwen beamed at him. “Absolutely.”
~*~
Morgana knocked hurriedly on Uther’s door.
“Enter.
Morgana opened the door and closed it quietly. She pressed herself against the door and heaved a great sigh.
Uther got up from his desk at once. “Morgana, are you ill?”
Morgana shook her head. “No. I’m just very upset.”
“What’s happened?” Uther asked concern in his voice.
“Nothing’s happened yet. But something will happen and I’m so worried about Arthur.”
Uther’s eyes widened in alarm. “What’s wrong with Arthur?”
“I’m afraid he’s about to do something really foolish.” She clutched at her stomach. “I feel sick just thinking about telling you this. But Arthur could ruin his whole future and ruin Camelot’s future.”
Uther took hold of Morgana’s hands. “Morgana, you must tell me. If Camelot’s well-being is at stake, it is your duty to tell me.”
Morgana nodded, wiping away a tear. ‘I understand.” She took a deep breath. “Arthur is making plans to run away with Merlin.”
Uther recoiled. “With Merlin?!”
Morgana nodded.
Uther let go of her arms and began to pace. “How could Arthur be so selfish and foolish?”
“You mustn’t blame Arthur. It’s Merlin’s fault.”
Uther stopped pacing and looked at Morgana. “How did you come across this information?”
Tears fell down Morgana’s face. “That’s the other thing that I have to tell you.”
~*~
Merlin picked at the chain mail weighing heavily against his chest. It was so uncomfortable. For the tenth time, he grumbled to himself about this plan of Gwen’s not working.
When Gwen had come to see him in the caves, he was surprised to see her and even more surprised when she told him that Arthur wanted to see him. He claimed to want nothing to do with Arthur, though the fact that Arthur had been on his mind every minute, refuted those claims. Gwen could barely contain her excitement and kept squealing every five seconds. She assured Merlin that he would want to hear what Arthur had to say. He trusted Gwen and he really didn’t like how he’d left things with Arthur.
Gwen told Merlin that Uther would probably not allow Merlin back on castle grounds. So she had Leon get her a knights’ uniform for Merlin to masquerade in. He could slip into the castle and see Arthur with no problems. Merlin thought it sounded too easy. But so far, other than the ill-fighting uniform, he’d had no problems.
He made it through the castle gates with no difficulty. He tried to walk as confidently as possible to truly look the part, but he was too scared to really convey much confidence. He was worried about being caught and even more than that he was worried about what Arthur was going to say.
He’d almost passed the threshold of the front door when his path was blocked by a guard. He gulped and turned around, only to be face with another guard looming over him. The guard behind him grabbed his arm. “The king would like a word with you.”
“C-can it wait. The prince said he needed to speak with me and that it was urgent.”
The second guard stalked toward Merlin. “You’re not going anywhere near the prince, Merlin.”
Merlin closed his eyes. He didn’t know how he was going to get out of this.
~*~
The guards threw Merlin into the throne room and he landed right in front of Uther’s feet. Merlin looked up at Uther sneering at him.
Uther looked down on Merlin. He shook his head. “How dare you try and masquerade as a knight. The thought of it makes me sick.”
“I’m sorry to hear that. You know how I hate to displease you.” Merlin glared at Uther.
Uther stared at Merlin, a twisted grin on his face. “Get up!”
Merlin slowly rose to his feet.
“I am aware of Arthur’s plans and that he sent for you. I knew you were trouble the instant I laid eyes on you. Whether or not you possess magic, you are just as much of a poison as your father was. We’re lucky to be rid of him.”
“’Rid of him?’” Merlin’s eyes widened. “Do you know what happened to my father?”
“I assume he’s dead, just as you have. Do you think of I knew where your father was I would have allowed you to stay here in Camelot, giving you the chance to poison my son?”
“I haven’t hurt, Arthur.”
Uther slowly strode over to him. “Yes, you have. You’ve hurt my son and you’ve hurt Camelot. All because of your abhorrent feelings.”
“I understand that an unfeeling bastard like you can’t possibly understand what it is to truly love another person-”
Uther grabbed Merlin’s chin. “Don’t you dare speak to me about love. I’ve known real and true love and understand it more than an insignificant boy like you ever will. I know of its joys. But I also know that it can corrupt. Love is the most destructive force in this world. It is a disease.” He let go of Merlin, pushing him back hard. “I know of only two ways to stop it – a cure or death.”
Merlin inhaled sharply. The look in Uther’s eyes was terrifying.
“Do you know what your beloved is doing right now? He’s down the hall packing for a new life with you.”
Merlin turned his head in the direction of Arthur’s chamber, his heart soaring at the thought that Arthur was willing to give up everything for him. He looked down at his feet, pursing his lips. But he knew now was not the time for them. Not with Uther wise to Arthur’s plan. “He’ll never know I’m here.”
Uther laughed mirthlessly. “Oh, yes he will. Because you are going to go to him, tell him that you received his message, and tell him why you’re here. Because you don’t love him. You’ll break his heart, and that will cure him.”
Merlin glowered at him. “Or you’ll kill me?”
Uther shook his head slowly. “No. Killing you would just make him love you more. And the kingdom and his marriage would ultimately crumble. I’m not going to kill you.” He nodded at the guards, who went to open the doors. “I’ll kill her.”
Merlin followed Uther’s stare and was horrified to see the guards dragging a weeping Gwen inside. “Gwen!” He rushed towards her, but the guards pushed him back.
Merlin spun around to stare at Uther. “You would kill her for helping me?”
“I would kill her because I know what she is. She is a disgusting creature.”
Merlin’s brow furrowed. How could Uther possibly know about Gwen’s condition? He couldn’t believe that Leon would tell Uther.
Uther stalked over to him. “So, what’s it going to be Merlin? Your love or her life?”
~*~
Merlin quietly opened Arthur’s door. He saw Arthur haphazardly stuffing clothes into a small bag. He didn’t realize until this moment how much he’d missed Arthur, how much he was going to miss him. Merlin closed the door behind him. “I see no one taught you how to pack properly.”
Arthur whipped around to face him. He stared in wonder at Merlin.
Merlin slowly came forward. “Arthur.”
“Merlin.”
“I got your message.”
“You came.” Arthur’s face split into a wide grin. “You came!” He rushed forward and crushed Merlin to him. “You came.”
Merlin bit his lip to keep from crying out. He was feeling so many different emotions at once; he couldn’t sort out one from the other. Being in Arthur’s arms felt so right, but it sickened him, knowing what he was going to have to do. He closed his eyes and allowed himself one second of happiness. He pulled back and looked into Arthur’s eyes. “Arthur, I…”
Arthur put a hand to Merlin’s lips. “Merlin, don’t talk. For once just listen, please.” Merlin didn’t say anything. “You may not believe this, but I know what an arrogant prat that I can be. It’s the way I’ve always been and what I thought I had to be, to be King. But then I met you and I realized that I can be more than that. I can be a prat. I can be an idiot. I can be kind. I can be all that and more. All of that is who I am and I know that because of you. To know that you just accept me as I am fills me with a kind of peace that I’ve never felt before.” Arthur went over to his bag and retrieved something.
Merlin looked down and furiously wiped away his tears. He couldn’t break.
Arthur came back to him. “Merlin, you are brash, rude, and pig-headed and those are only some of the things I love about you. I don’t ever want you to change because then you wouldn’t be the man I love.” Arthur opened his palm and Merlin saw Arthur’s mother’s sigil. “I love you, Merlin.”
Merlin took several deep breaths. “I’m sorry, Arthur. But I don’t love you.”
Arthur’s shoulders slumped and the light went out of his eyes.
If Merlin slept for a thousand years, he would never be able to erase that image from his mind.
Arthur shook his head. “That’s not true. You’re lying.”
“It’s not. Arthur I care about you, but not in the same way you care about me.”
Arthur bit his lip. “You came all this way to tell me you don’t love me?”
“I didn’t want you to wonder or have any doubts. Arthur, you will be a wonderful king. I couldn’t live with myself if you gave that up for me.”
“But I have a plan. We can run away together. We can go somewhere my father can never hurt us. I don’t have to be king.” A tear fell from Arthur’s eye.
Merlin swallowed thickly. “Yes, you do. You will do great things for Camelot. Because it is what you were born to do. You can’t throw that away for someone who will never love you the way you deserve to be.” Merlin reached out and closed Arthur’s hand around the sigil. “You will find someone to love you. You will find your Queen. That belongs to her, not me.”
Arthur cupped Merlin’s chin. “Merlin, look at me.”
Merlin steeled himself, before looking up at Arthur.
“Is this what you really want?” Arthur’s voice wavered.
Merlin nodded slowly. “Yes. This is the way it has to be.”
“Then, go.” Arthur’s voice hardened.
“Arthur, I’m sorry.”
“Just leave, Merlin.” Arthur walked away from over to his window.
“Good-bye, Arthur.” Merlin’s voice cracked on Arthur’s name. He walked away on unsteady legs, the tears falling before he made it out the door.
~*~
Merlin strode back into the throne room. “I did what you asked. I told Arthur I didn’t love him. His heart is broken. Are you happy?” He pointed at Gwen. “Now let her go.”
Uther glared at Merlin. For a one fearful moment, Merlin worried that Uther would go back on his word. But then Uther gestured to his guards and they roughly released Gwen. Uther pointed at Merlin. “I want you and that thing to leave Camelot and you are never to return. If I ever see either one of you again, I will gladly kill you.”
Merlin stared daggers at Uther. “One day Arthur will know of what a hateful and disgusting person that his father is. And he will hate you.”
Uther just smiled grimly at Merlin.
Merlin grabbed Gwen’s hand and led her out.
~*~
Leon hid around the corner as Gwen and Merlin were led out of the throne room. He had been worried ever since Gwen had asked him for the knight’s uniform. She had told him Merlin needed to see Arthur because he was in love with him. He was confused when he saw Merlin furiously walking to the throne room, where Uther was. He feared what could happen.
He was horrified to see Gwen being forcibly held by Uther’s guards. He heard every word that Merlin said to the king. He wanted to rescue Gwen and Merlin, but knew he couldn’t take them on alone. He had to get to Arthur.
~*~
As Gwen and Merlin walked out of the castle, Uther’s guards a step behind them, Gwen turned to Merlin. “I’m so sorry, Merlin.”
Merlin frowned. “Don’t apologise. You were almost killed because of me.”
Gwen shook her head vehemently. “This is not your fault, Merlin. This is Uther’s doing. I know that he could be cruel, but this is beyond what I ever imagined him doing.”
Merlin shrugged one shoulder listlessly. Merlin looked like he hurt all over; even breathing seemed to be too much of an effort for him. “I always knew Uther was capable of great evil.”
Once they moved outside the castle walls, the guards left them.
They walked for a few minutes and made it to the woods. They heard footsteps behind them. Merlin whirled around, stepping in front of Gwen. “Who’s there?”
It was too dark to see. Gwen strained her eyes, trying to make out the figure walking towards them. She gasped when she saw who it was. “Milady, what are you doing out here?”
Morgana brushed back the green hood covering her face. There were tears staining her cheeks. She rushed forward and hugged Gwen. “Oh, Gwen. I’m so sorry.”
Gwen pulled back. “Why are you sorry?”
“Because she’s the one who told Gwen about you turning into a wolf.” Merlin declared.
Gwen stared at him in disbelief. “Merlin, Morgana would never do that.”
Morgana looked down and shook her head. “No, Gwen he’s right. I did.”
Gwen stepped back. “Why would you do that?”
Morgana wiped her tears. “Because Uther threatened my life.”
Both Gwen and Merlin gasped.
“You’re Uther’s ward. Why would he threaten to kill you?” Gwen asked.
“Because I have magic.”
~*~
Arthur covered his head with a pillow. Someone was knocking incessantly at his door. He tried to ignore them; he didn’t want to see anyone. Merlin’s rejection left him feeling utterly hollow. He’d never felt such aching misery before.
“Arthur!”
Arthur removed the pillow from over his face. “Leon?”
“Arthur, open the door please. I need to speak with you. It’s an emergency.”
Arthur got up instantly. It wasn’t like Leon to be this dramatic. “Come in!”
Leon walked in briskly. He moved towards Arthur immediately. “Arthur, I need your help.”
“What is it?”
“Gwen and Merlin have been banished from Camelot!”
Arthur’s eyes widened. He wasn’t surprised to hear about Merlin, but why would Gwen be banished?
“Your father is lying to you, Arthur,” Leon continued.
“What? Leon that is a serious accusation!”
“I know. I could hardly believe it myself, but I heard it with my own ears.”
Arthur walked towards Leon and put his hand on his shoulder. “What did you hear?”
“Merlin walked into the throne room and he told Uther that he’d done what he’d asked. He told Uther that he’d broken your heart. The guards seemed to be holding Gwen prisoner and when Merlin told him what he’d done, they released her. Then he banished them from Camelot. He said if they ever came back, he would kill them.” Leon explained.
Arthur’s hand slid from Leon’s shoulder. “My father told Merlin to break my heart?”
“Yes. Merlin was lying to you. He loves you. Gwen told me that. She had me get a knight’s uniform so Merlin could sneak in here.”
Arthur turned his back on Leon. He was panting. He couldn’t even bask in the fact that Merlin really did love him. He was enraged at his father. He’d tortured Merlin and made him break his heart. He knew the gut-wrenching pain he felt when Merlin told him he didn’t love him. He couldn’t imagine how Merlin felt being forced to do that, and then to be banished from Camelot.
He turned back to Leon. “Leon, I need you to prepare my horse. I promise you that I will find Gwen and Merlin. My father will not get away with this.”
~*~
After dropping her bombshell, Morgana had requested that they speak in private. Gwen took them to the cabin Leon kept her in during the full moon.
Morgana could see that Merlin was trying to process her confession. He wasn’t looking at her with suspicion anymore. She could tell she had his sympathy.
When they got to the cabin, Morgana collapsed in a chair. Merlin was agitated and had started to pace. While it was good she had his sympathy now, she needed more than that.
Morgana sighed. “Ever since I was a little girl, I’ve had prophetic dreams. I can’t control them. They just happen. Gaius used to give me a draught that helped stop the dreams from happening, but ever since Uther had Gaius thrown in the cells - ”
“Uther did what?” Merlin yelled. “Arthur told me that Uther had Gaius banished.”
Morgana shook her head. “Uther lies as easily as he breathes. He lied to Arthur. Years ago, when Uther had the entire dragon lords killed, Gaius helped your father escape.”
Merlin gasped.
“I can’t even begin to describe how much Uther hates your father.” Morgana eyed Gwen. She was watching Merlin carefully. She was clearly worried. Morgana couldn’t have Gwen interfering with her plans. Morgana looked at Gwen. “Gwen, I don’t mean to be rude, but I really need to talk to Merlin privately. Can you wait outside?”
Gwen’s brow furrowed.
Merlin reached for Gwen. “I don’t think that’s a good idea. I don’t want her waiting out there alone. Uther’s guards could have followed us.”
Morgana narrowed her eyes at him. Gwen stared at her for a moment. She then turned to Merlin and smiled. “It’s alright, Merlin. I can take care of myself. I’ll just be right outside.” Gwen smiled tightly at Morgana and left.
Morgana watched her leave. After the door closed, she got up and walked towards Merlin. “I’m so sorry to tell you this, Merlin but it was Uther that killed your father.”
Merlin opened and closed his mouth several times. He looked shell-shocked. “How do you know?”
“I heard him speaking to his guards about it. They caught me eavesdropping and that’s when Uther told me he knew about my magic. He threatened me to keep what he’d done a secret. He’s been using me to spy on Arthur ever since.”
Merlin’s fists clenched. His face was turning red. “All of this time…he killed my father. I don’t understand. Camelot was under attack. Why would he kill my father when he knew he could help?”
Morgana looked down at her feet. She hated how long this was taking. Why was Merlin asking so many questions? “He knew about you and that Arthur would find you and then you could help. He allowed you to stay because he wanted to kill you. He knew he couldn’t do it right away or Arthur would hate him. He was just biding his time.”
Morgana turned her back on him. “Don’t you see what an evil man he is? He has to be stopped!” She whirled around to face Merlin.
Merlin was biting his lip so hard; his lip was starting to bleed.
“He raised me and he’s still willing to torture me like this. He’s still willing to kill me. He’ll hurt anyone. Look what he’s doing to Arthur. How he’s trying to control him. Arthur will become just like him, Merlin.” Merlin’s eyes widened.
Morgana strode toward Merlin, grabbing his arms. “He must be killed. You have to kill him. You must avenge your father. Uther has slaughtered our kind for years. You have to avenge them.”
Merlin stalked across the room and gripped the edge of the table. He lifted it up slightly and banged it against the floor.
Morgana was filled with manic glee. Merlin was almost ready.
Merlin whirled around to stare at her. “Uther is the poison, not us. He deserves to die slowly, cut into a thousand pieces. He does deserve to be punished.”
Morgana bit back a smile.
“But I can’t kill him.”
‘What?!” Morgana screeched.
“If I kill him, I become just like him. And no matter how repellant he is, he’s still Arthur’s father. Arthur loves him. If I killed him, Arthur would hate me.” Merlin shook his head. “There has to be another way.”
Morgana smiled. “There is.” She walked towards Merlin. Her eyes glowed golden as she recited an incantation. Merlin stilled in front of her.
Morgana sighed disgustedly. “I should have known you weren’t man enough to do this on your own.” She walked up to Merlin and got right in Merlin’s face. “You are my puppet, Merlin. You will do whatever I ask. And what I ask of you is to rid this world of Uther Pendragon. You will neither sleep nor eat until your task is complete. The only thing you know is Uther Pendragon and killing him.” She stepped back. “Do you understand?”
Merlin blinked at her. “Yes.”
She conjured up a bow and arrow and handed it to Merlin. “This arrow will always find its target.” She sneered. “Uther is a horrible man, but he has two weaknesses – Arthur and his beloved, Ygraine. Once a month Uther goes to visit Ygraine’s grave.” Morgana’s eyes glowed again and a map appeared in her hand. “This map details the route he will take.” She pointed at an X on the map. “Fire the arrow from this spot here and you’ll be hidden from sight. Is that clear?”
Merlin nodded.
“Good. You have your orders, now go!”
Merlin gripped the arrow tightly and marched out of the room.
Morgana smiled widely. Her smile disappeared when Gwen came storming into the room.
“What’s happened to Merlin? He just ran out of here without answering me. He was caring some kind of bow. I don’t understand where he even got it.” Gwen said.
Morgana put her hand to her chest. “Well I gave it to him. How else is he to kill the king without a proper weapon?”
Gwen’s mouth fell open wide. “Kill the king?”
“Yes.” Morgana inhaled deeply. She walked over to the back of the room. “Now I can’t have you interfering with what Merlin has to do. Luckily for me someone else has provided the perfect way to get you out of my hair.” She smiled as she picked up the shackles on the floor.
~*~
Uther stormed out on to the knight’s training grounds. He strode over to Leon. “Arthur is nowhere to be found.”
Leon feigned shock. “Oh my goodness, sire. We were wondering where the prince was.”
“He’s gone after that horrible boy!”
“Merlin?”
“Yes!” Uther hissed. “I’ve already sent my men after him, but I know you are the best tracker we have. I need you to find him, Leon.”
Leon nodded. “Of course, sire. I’ll do whatever I can.”
Uther nodded shortly.
Leon held back his smirk as he watched Uther stride away.
~*~
Arthur pushed his horse to his limit as he galloped through the path in the woods. Leon had told him of a cabin that he used to hide Gwen. Arthur had been shocked when Leon had told him of Gwen’s condition. It was a little hard to believe, but he had no time to ponder such matters.
Arthur heard several hoof beats behind him. He was surprised his father’s men had found him already. He pulled on the reins and turned, guiding his horse through another path higher above ground. He hopped off his horse and hid behind some trees, holding the reins firm. He watched his father’s guards down below. They stopped and looked around. When they couldn’t spot him, they rode on. Arthur sighed in relief.
He mounted his horse again and rode furiously, using an alternate path. It would take a bit longer, but he couldn’t let Uther’s men find him.
He finally arrived at the cabin. He heard no sounds coming from the cabin. It felt odd, but he figured Gwen and Merlin was trying to hide and would not try and draw any attention to themselves. He dismounted his horse and quickly tied it to a tree. He approached the cabin slowly. He didn’t want to spook them. When he got to the door, he knocked softly. “Merlin! Gwen!” He heard some rustling inside. He tried the handle and it opened easily.
Arthur’s eyes bulged when he walked into the room. Gwen was gagged and her arms were shackled above her. She had a nasty bruise forming on her forehead, with a tiny drop of blood running down. He rushed to her and took the cloth from her mouth. “Gwen, what happened? Where’s Merlin?”
“Morgana!” Gwen gasped.
“What?”
“Morgana she chained me here. She did something to Merlin. She’s going to have him kill Uther!”
Arthur gasped. “I don’t understand why would do this? She wouldn’t…”
Gwen shook her head. “I don’t understand it either. But she has magic, Arthur. She wants Uther dead. If you don’t stop him, Merlin is going to kill him.”
Arthur looked around frantically. ‘Where’s the key?”
“I don’t know if Morgana took it. It should be on the table.” Gwen said.
Arthur hurried to the back of the room and found the key on the floor by the table. He ran over to Gwen and unlocked the shackles. “Hurry, Arthur! Go! If Merlin kills your father, he’ll never be the same!”
Arthur took one last look at Gwen and sped from the cabin. He knew exactly where his father was headed.
Part 7
Arthur walked to his room utterly defeated. There was no reasoning with his father. Uther announced that he would assemble Lord Godwin, Elena, and several other important members of society and Arthur was to propose the very next day. He felt more trapped than ever before.
He was surprised to find Morgana waiting in his room. "Morgana, what are you doing here? Where's Elena?"
"She's getting settled in her room." Morgana sauntered over to him. "What is it, Arthur? You look more distressed than I've ever seen you."
Arthur ran both hands through his hair and exhaled loudly. He moved over to his bed and sat down heavily. "Father wants me to marry, Elena."
Morgana walked over and clutched one of Arthur's bedposts. "Is that really a surprise? Uther's been grooming you for marriage since you could walk."
Arthur shrugged. "I don't know. I suppose I just never believed he would actually make me go through with it."
"Elena's perfectly nice."
"I know she is!" Arthur snapped. He threw his head back. "I'm sorry, Morgana. Elena is perfectly nice. But I don’t want perfectly nice for a wife.”
Morgana grinned. “Perhaps you don’t want a wife at all.”
Arthur shook his head. “I want to get married.”
“That’s not what I meant.” Morgana sat on the bed next to Arthur. “I think who you want is Merlin.”
Arthur spluttered in protest. “You’re completely wrong.”
“Am I?” Morgana raised an eyebrow. “I don’t think so. I’ve seen you two together. There’s something special there.”
“Morgana-
“Don’t Morgana me. Why can’t you just admit what you feel for him?”
“Because I’m not a girl. I don’t talk about my feelings, especially when there’s no point.”
“Ah ha!” Morgana exclaimed. “Then you admit you have feelings for Merlin?”
“Many feelings – frustration, annoyance, exasperation…” Arthur listed them off on his fingers.
“Adoration.” Morgana grinned.
Arthur crossed his arms in front of his chest. “You’re relentless. You’re not going to give up are you?”
Morgana shook her head.
“Alright.” Arthur took a deep breath. “I care about him a great deal.” Arthur threw his head in his hands.
Morgana squealed. “This is a good thing, Arthur.”
Arthur whipped his head up to face her. “It is not a good thing, Morgana. Nothing can happen between us. I have to marry a woman. I have to have a queen.”
“Who says?”
“My father, ancient tradition.” Arthur groaned. “I don’t know what I’m going to do.”
Morgana put her arms around him. “What you’re going to do, little brother, is follow your heart.”
~*~
Merlin looked up from the tonic he was mixing, and dropped vial when he saw Morgana standing in Edwin’s house. “Morgana, what are you doing here?”
“Where’s Edwin?”
“He’s off gathering herbs.” Merlin answered, carefully placing the vial down.
“Isn’t that your job?”
Merlin nodded. “Yes, but Edwin said there were specific ingredients that only he was trained to deal with it. I didn’t really question it. I don’t really like being around Edwin very much.”
“That’s unfortunate since you have to work for him.”
Merlin shrugged. “Is there something you needed? Do you need more of that sleeping draught?”
“No. I just wanted to invite you to a celebration we’re having at the castle. I know you don’t really like fancy events, but this is more of an informal celebration.” Morgana explained.
“Why do you want me to come?”
“It’s a celebration for Lord Godwin and Elena. She’s a very sweet girl and I think that you would like her. Also, Arthur’s been complaining about not getting to spend time with you.”
“Then why doesn’t he ask me himself?” Merlin felt that there was something Morgana was keeping from him.
“You know, Arthur. He’d rather suffer in silence than admit he misses you.” Morgana smiled.
Merlin smiled tightly. “That is just like him.”
Morgana moved in closer. “Will you come?”
Merlin hesitated. He sighed. He figured he might as well say yes. It wouldn’t do any harm. “Alright.”
Morgana grinned widely. “Good. I think you’ll really enjoy meeting Elena.”
~*~
Arthur’s knees were shaking. He was dressed in his official ceremonial clothes. He had on his crown and everything felt very real. He couldn’t believe he was about to propose to some girl he barely knew. He turned and looked at his father behind him, who was speaking excitedly with Lord Godwin.
To his right, Morgana was standing with Gwen. He smiled weakly at Morgana. She had assured him that Merlin would be working with Edwin, gathering herbs. Arthur had wanted to tell Merlin about the proposal, but he couldn’t bring himself to do it.
Arthur looked back to in front of him where his knights and other assorted friends of his father were. The doors in the back of the room opened and Elena walked in, looking almost as nervous as Arthur. Arthur began to fidget even more.
Elena came to stand awkwardly beside him. Arthur tried to remember the speech he had prepared. “I’m honored to be standing before you today in the presence of our dear friend, Lord Godwin,” Arthur turned and motioned stiffly behind him, “and his wonderful daughter, Elena.” He smiled at her. She smiled back, but the smile didn’t reach her eyes.
“The people of this kingdom are very dear to me. This place is my life. I hope one day to continue the good work of my father,” Arthur motioned to Uther. “And to make Camelot a place of peace and happiness.” Everyone in the room clapped.
Just then, Merlin walked in through the open doors at the back. The guards almost stopped him, but soon recognized him and let him in. He walked in slowly and stayed in the back. Arthur felt the breath leave his body. What was Merlin doing here? He couldn’t continue. He had to stop this somehow. But when he gazed back at his father, and saw the stern look on his face, he knew stopping was out of the question.
Arthur looked down at his feet, anywhere but in Merlin’s direction. “It is my sincerest hope that you,” He turned to Elena, “Princess Elena, share these dreams.”
Arthur swallowed down the bile rising in his throat and slowly got down on one knee. “With this in mind, I would like to ask you to do me the honor of becoming my…wife.” He tripped over the last word.
He didn’t miss the look of fear in Elena’s eyes. She paused for a long moment before whispering, “Yes.”
Everyone in the room cheered. Arthur got up slowly. Elena was wringing her hands. He dared to look where Merlin stood. Arthur’s heart broke at the determined look on Merlin’s face. He was standing tall, with his chin jutted out. But Arthur could see the heartbreak in Merlin’s eyes. He was sure it matched his own. Merlin nodded stiffly at Arthur and then left the room quickly.
Arthur was actually grateful when his father and Lord Godwin came over to offer their congratulations. He would welcome any distraction to keep him from picturing that look in Merlin’s eyes.
~*~
Merlin packed hurriedly. He didn’t have many possessions here, but Gwen had provided him with a few new shirts and some horrible looking neck scarves and he didn’t want to be rude and leave any of it behind. He had no idea where he was going, but he couldn’t stay at the castle anymore. He’d be damned if he would watch Arthur with his new bride.
Damn Arthur for not telling him this news directly. Damn Arthur for making him care so much. Perhaps being alone in a cave would be better than feeling like this.
Merlin stopped his bustling around when he heard a tentative knock on his door. He knew who it was without needing to ask. “Come in.”
Arthur walked in slowly. He stood by the door, not coming into the room very far. Merlin ignored him while he packed. “You’re leaving.”
“Excellent observation skills. I can see why you’re such a great hunter.”
“Merlin, I’m sorry that…”
“Don’t be sorry.” Merlin finally gazed in Arthur’s direction, though he still couldn’t look at his face. “You’re getting married. It’s a happy time.” He put on a fake smile. “Congratulations.”
“Merlin, this isn’t my idea. But I have to do this for the good of the kingdom. It’s my duty.”
Merlin picked up his small bag and slung it over his back. “You don’t owe me any explanations. You don’t owe me anything.”
Arthur finally moved in closer. He made a tentative move to touch Merlin’s arm, but he pulled back. “I owe you so much, Merlin.”
“You don’t have to help me find out what happened to my father. I know that he’s dead, and if I need to find out anything more, I’ll do it myself.”
“Where will you go?” Arthur whispered.
“I think Gwen will let me stay with her for a little while. I’ll figure out something to do after that.” Merlin finally looked up into Arthur’s face. “Good-bye, Arthur.”
Merlin brushed passed Arthur.
“Merlin!”
Merlin stopped with his hand on the door handle. He didn’t turn back to look at Arthur.
“I wish things could have been different.”
“Me, too.”
Merlin rushed out of the room. He didn’t let the tears fall until he was safely out of the castle.
~*~
Morgana laughed loudly. She had just seen Merlin sprinting away from the castle. Her plan had been a success. She knew if she played Uther just right, he couldn’t help being the tyrant that he is and separating Arthur and Merlin. She barely had to lift a finger. Now that Merlin was out of her hair she could focus on destroying Uther and Arthur.
She turned to her mirror. “Things have finally worked out, haven’t they?”
“I wouldn’t be so sure.”
Morgana’s eyes narrowed. “What does that mean? Merlin is gone, is he not?”
“For now,’ the mirror said, sounding far too pleased for Morgana’s liking. “It seems that all of your plotting may have backfired. Arthur now knows what he truly desires. He will not give up.”
Morgana groaned. “That’s it. I am done playing nice. If I can’t keep Arthur away from Merlin, I’ll just have to remove Merlin permanently.” She cocked her head to the side. “But before he dies, I think Merlin will prove very useful to me.”
~*~
Arthur sat by the window, looking out periodically, but mainly staring at his mother’s sigil. He kept thinking about what he’d told Merlin about giving the sigil to the woman he married. He ran his thumb across the bird in the middle of the sigil. He couldn’t imagine giving this to Elena. He couldn’t imagine giving it to anyone but Merlin.
“I love Merlin.” He covered his mouth. He’d never said that, even in his own head. “I love Merlin.” He started to laugh. “I love Merlin.”
Arthur had spent so much trying to suppress his feeling, just saying it out loud filled him with relief. He felt happier than he had in a long time. More than anything, he wanted to find Merlin and tell him how he felt. He wanted to be with him.
Of course there was still the problem of his father and his engagement to Elena. He knew his father couldn’t be reasoned with. But he couldn’t go through with it.
Perhaps he and Merlin could run away together. Camelot had been Arthur’s entire life, but he realised he would happily give up the throne and this life to start something new with Merlin.
Arthur suddenly realised he was getting ahead of himself. What if Merlin didn’t feel the same as him? He didn’t really doubt Merlin’s feelings. He didn’t think Merlin would have reacted to the proposal so strongly if he didn’t love Arthur back. But Arthur had to be sure and then there was only one way to find out.
Arthur rushed over to Gwen’s house. He hoped he wouldn’t be disturbing her, but he had to speak to Merlin. He knocked on her door. Arthur was a bit impatient and barely waited a few seconds before knocking again.
“Who’s there?” She called out.
“It’s Arthur.”
Gwen gasped. “Prince Arthur?” Gwen quickly opened the door. “Sire, what are you doing here?”
“I came to talk to Merlin.”
Gwen raised an eyebrow. “Merlin?”
“I know that he may not want to speak with me, but you have to let me see him. It’s very important.”
Gwen gaped at him. “Arthur, Merlin isn’t here.”
“What?”
“He came to see me yesterday after you proposed to Princess Elena and he said good-bye.”
“Oh, no.” Arthur rubbed a hand back and forth across his eye. “Do you think he went back to the caves?”
Gwen shrugged. “He might have.”
“Gwen, I need you to do something for me.”
Gwen eyed him warily. “I would do it myself, but my father will be keeping a close eye on me for the next few days. I need you to get word to Merlin and tell him I need to talk to him urgently.”
Gwen sighed. “Arthur, I know you’re the prince and you can force me to do this, but please don’t ask me to do anything that’s going to hurt Merlin further. You’ve already broken his heart.”
“I broke his heart?”
Gwen nodded.
Arthur knew it looked insensitive, but he couldn’t help the wide smile on his face. This meant that Merlin loved him, too. At Gwen’s horrified look, Arthur stopped smiling. “I’m sorry. I’m just happy to know that Merlin cares for me in the same way I feel about him.”
Gwen smiled tentatively. “You love Merlin?”
Arthur grinned. “Yes.”
Gwen squealed. She covered her mouth. “I’m sorry, sire.”
Arthur laughed. “It’s alright. Can you help me, Gwen?”
Gwen beamed at him. “Absolutely.”
~*~
Morgana knocked hurriedly on Uther’s door.
“Enter.
Morgana opened the door and closed it quietly. She pressed herself against the door and heaved a great sigh.
Uther got up from his desk at once. “Morgana, are you ill?”
Morgana shook her head. “No. I’m just very upset.”
“What’s happened?” Uther asked concern in his voice.
“Nothing’s happened yet. But something will happen and I’m so worried about Arthur.”
Uther’s eyes widened in alarm. “What’s wrong with Arthur?”
“I’m afraid he’s about to do something really foolish.” She clutched at her stomach. “I feel sick just thinking about telling you this. But Arthur could ruin his whole future and ruin Camelot’s future.”
Uther took hold of Morgana’s hands. “Morgana, you must tell me. If Camelot’s well-being is at stake, it is your duty to tell me.”
Morgana nodded, wiping away a tear. ‘I understand.” She took a deep breath. “Arthur is making plans to run away with Merlin.”
Uther recoiled. “With Merlin?!”
Morgana nodded.
Uther let go of her arms and began to pace. “How could Arthur be so selfish and foolish?”
“You mustn’t blame Arthur. It’s Merlin’s fault.”
Uther stopped pacing and looked at Morgana. “How did you come across this information?”
Tears fell down Morgana’s face. “That’s the other thing that I have to tell you.”
~*~
Merlin picked at the chain mail weighing heavily against his chest. It was so uncomfortable. For the tenth time, he grumbled to himself about this plan of Gwen’s not working.
When Gwen had come to see him in the caves, he was surprised to see her and even more surprised when she told him that Arthur wanted to see him. He claimed to want nothing to do with Arthur, though the fact that Arthur had been on his mind every minute, refuted those claims. Gwen could barely contain her excitement and kept squealing every five seconds. She assured Merlin that he would want to hear what Arthur had to say. He trusted Gwen and he really didn’t like how he’d left things with Arthur.
Gwen told Merlin that Uther would probably not allow Merlin back on castle grounds. So she had Leon get her a knights’ uniform for Merlin to masquerade in. He could slip into the castle and see Arthur with no problems. Merlin thought it sounded too easy. But so far, other than the ill-fighting uniform, he’d had no problems.
He made it through the castle gates with no difficulty. He tried to walk as confidently as possible to truly look the part, but he was too scared to really convey much confidence. He was worried about being caught and even more than that he was worried about what Arthur was going to say.
He’d almost passed the threshold of the front door when his path was blocked by a guard. He gulped and turned around, only to be face with another guard looming over him. The guard behind him grabbed his arm. “The king would like a word with you.”
“C-can it wait. The prince said he needed to speak with me and that it was urgent.”
The second guard stalked toward Merlin. “You’re not going anywhere near the prince, Merlin.”
Merlin closed his eyes. He didn’t know how he was going to get out of this.
~*~
The guards threw Merlin into the throne room and he landed right in front of Uther’s feet. Merlin looked up at Uther sneering at him.
Uther looked down on Merlin. He shook his head. “How dare you try and masquerade as a knight. The thought of it makes me sick.”
“I’m sorry to hear that. You know how I hate to displease you.” Merlin glared at Uther.
Uther stared at Merlin, a twisted grin on his face. “Get up!”
Merlin slowly rose to his feet.
“I am aware of Arthur’s plans and that he sent for you. I knew you were trouble the instant I laid eyes on you. Whether or not you possess magic, you are just as much of a poison as your father was. We’re lucky to be rid of him.”
“’Rid of him?’” Merlin’s eyes widened. “Do you know what happened to my father?”
“I assume he’s dead, just as you have. Do you think of I knew where your father was I would have allowed you to stay here in Camelot, giving you the chance to poison my son?”
“I haven’t hurt, Arthur.”
Uther slowly strode over to him. “Yes, you have. You’ve hurt my son and you’ve hurt Camelot. All because of your abhorrent feelings.”
“I understand that an unfeeling bastard like you can’t possibly understand what it is to truly love another person-”
Uther grabbed Merlin’s chin. “Don’t you dare speak to me about love. I’ve known real and true love and understand it more than an insignificant boy like you ever will. I know of its joys. But I also know that it can corrupt. Love is the most destructive force in this world. It is a disease.” He let go of Merlin, pushing him back hard. “I know of only two ways to stop it – a cure or death.”
Merlin inhaled sharply. The look in Uther’s eyes was terrifying.
“Do you know what your beloved is doing right now? He’s down the hall packing for a new life with you.”
Merlin turned his head in the direction of Arthur’s chamber, his heart soaring at the thought that Arthur was willing to give up everything for him. He looked down at his feet, pursing his lips. But he knew now was not the time for them. Not with Uther wise to Arthur’s plan. “He’ll never know I’m here.”
Uther laughed mirthlessly. “Oh, yes he will. Because you are going to go to him, tell him that you received his message, and tell him why you’re here. Because you don’t love him. You’ll break his heart, and that will cure him.”
Merlin glowered at him. “Or you’ll kill me?”
Uther shook his head slowly. “No. Killing you would just make him love you more. And the kingdom and his marriage would ultimately crumble. I’m not going to kill you.” He nodded at the guards, who went to open the doors. “I’ll kill her.”
Merlin followed Uther’s stare and was horrified to see the guards dragging a weeping Gwen inside. “Gwen!” He rushed towards her, but the guards pushed him back.
Merlin spun around to stare at Uther. “You would kill her for helping me?”
“I would kill her because I know what she is. She is a disgusting creature.”
Merlin’s brow furrowed. How could Uther possibly know about Gwen’s condition? He couldn’t believe that Leon would tell Uther.
Uther stalked over to him. “So, what’s it going to be Merlin? Your love or her life?”
~*~
Merlin quietly opened Arthur’s door. He saw Arthur haphazardly stuffing clothes into a small bag. He didn’t realize until this moment how much he’d missed Arthur, how much he was going to miss him. Merlin closed the door behind him. “I see no one taught you how to pack properly.”
Arthur whipped around to face him. He stared in wonder at Merlin.
Merlin slowly came forward. “Arthur.”
“Merlin.”
“I got your message.”
“You came.” Arthur’s face split into a wide grin. “You came!” He rushed forward and crushed Merlin to him. “You came.”
Merlin bit his lip to keep from crying out. He was feeling so many different emotions at once; he couldn’t sort out one from the other. Being in Arthur’s arms felt so right, but it sickened him, knowing what he was going to have to do. He closed his eyes and allowed himself one second of happiness. He pulled back and looked into Arthur’s eyes. “Arthur, I…”
Arthur put a hand to Merlin’s lips. “Merlin, don’t talk. For once just listen, please.” Merlin didn’t say anything. “You may not believe this, but I know what an arrogant prat that I can be. It’s the way I’ve always been and what I thought I had to be, to be King. But then I met you and I realized that I can be more than that. I can be a prat. I can be an idiot. I can be kind. I can be all that and more. All of that is who I am and I know that because of you. To know that you just accept me as I am fills me with a kind of peace that I’ve never felt before.” Arthur went over to his bag and retrieved something.
Merlin looked down and furiously wiped away his tears. He couldn’t break.
Arthur came back to him. “Merlin, you are brash, rude, and pig-headed and those are only some of the things I love about you. I don’t ever want you to change because then you wouldn’t be the man I love.” Arthur opened his palm and Merlin saw Arthur’s mother’s sigil. “I love you, Merlin.”
Merlin took several deep breaths. “I’m sorry, Arthur. But I don’t love you.”
Arthur’s shoulders slumped and the light went out of his eyes.
If Merlin slept for a thousand years, he would never be able to erase that image from his mind.
Arthur shook his head. “That’s not true. You’re lying.”
“It’s not. Arthur I care about you, but not in the same way you care about me.”
Arthur bit his lip. “You came all this way to tell me you don’t love me?”
“I didn’t want you to wonder or have any doubts. Arthur, you will be a wonderful king. I couldn’t live with myself if you gave that up for me.”
“But I have a plan. We can run away together. We can go somewhere my father can never hurt us. I don’t have to be king.” A tear fell from Arthur’s eye.
Merlin swallowed thickly. “Yes, you do. You will do great things for Camelot. Because it is what you were born to do. You can’t throw that away for someone who will never love you the way you deserve to be.” Merlin reached out and closed Arthur’s hand around the sigil. “You will find someone to love you. You will find your Queen. That belongs to her, not me.”
Arthur cupped Merlin’s chin. “Merlin, look at me.”
Merlin steeled himself, before looking up at Arthur.
“Is this what you really want?” Arthur’s voice wavered.
Merlin nodded slowly. “Yes. This is the way it has to be.”
“Then, go.” Arthur’s voice hardened.
“Arthur, I’m sorry.”
“Just leave, Merlin.” Arthur walked away from over to his window.
“Good-bye, Arthur.” Merlin’s voice cracked on Arthur’s name. He walked away on unsteady legs, the tears falling before he made it out the door.
~*~
Merlin strode back into the throne room. “I did what you asked. I told Arthur I didn’t love him. His heart is broken. Are you happy?” He pointed at Gwen. “Now let her go.”
Uther glared at Merlin. For a one fearful moment, Merlin worried that Uther would go back on his word. But then Uther gestured to his guards and they roughly released Gwen. Uther pointed at Merlin. “I want you and that thing to leave Camelot and you are never to return. If I ever see either one of you again, I will gladly kill you.”
Merlin stared daggers at Uther. “One day Arthur will know of what a hateful and disgusting person that his father is. And he will hate you.”
Uther just smiled grimly at Merlin.
Merlin grabbed Gwen’s hand and led her out.
~*~
Leon hid around the corner as Gwen and Merlin were led out of the throne room. He had been worried ever since Gwen had asked him for the knight’s uniform. She had told him Merlin needed to see Arthur because he was in love with him. He was confused when he saw Merlin furiously walking to the throne room, where Uther was. He feared what could happen.
He was horrified to see Gwen being forcibly held by Uther’s guards. He heard every word that Merlin said to the king. He wanted to rescue Gwen and Merlin, but knew he couldn’t take them on alone. He had to get to Arthur.
~*~
As Gwen and Merlin walked out of the castle, Uther’s guards a step behind them, Gwen turned to Merlin. “I’m so sorry, Merlin.”
Merlin frowned. “Don’t apologise. You were almost killed because of me.”
Gwen shook her head vehemently. “This is not your fault, Merlin. This is Uther’s doing. I know that he could be cruel, but this is beyond what I ever imagined him doing.”
Merlin shrugged one shoulder listlessly. Merlin looked like he hurt all over; even breathing seemed to be too much of an effort for him. “I always knew Uther was capable of great evil.”
Once they moved outside the castle walls, the guards left them.
They walked for a few minutes and made it to the woods. They heard footsteps behind them. Merlin whirled around, stepping in front of Gwen. “Who’s there?”
It was too dark to see. Gwen strained her eyes, trying to make out the figure walking towards them. She gasped when she saw who it was. “Milady, what are you doing out here?”
Morgana brushed back the green hood covering her face. There were tears staining her cheeks. She rushed forward and hugged Gwen. “Oh, Gwen. I’m so sorry.”
Gwen pulled back. “Why are you sorry?”
“Because she’s the one who told Gwen about you turning into a wolf.” Merlin declared.
Gwen stared at him in disbelief. “Merlin, Morgana would never do that.”
Morgana looked down and shook her head. “No, Gwen he’s right. I did.”
Gwen stepped back. “Why would you do that?”
Morgana wiped her tears. “Because Uther threatened my life.”
Both Gwen and Merlin gasped.
“You’re Uther’s ward. Why would he threaten to kill you?” Gwen asked.
“Because I have magic.”
~*~
Arthur covered his head with a pillow. Someone was knocking incessantly at his door. He tried to ignore them; he didn’t want to see anyone. Merlin’s rejection left him feeling utterly hollow. He’d never felt such aching misery before.
“Arthur!”
Arthur removed the pillow from over his face. “Leon?”
“Arthur, open the door please. I need to speak with you. It’s an emergency.”
Arthur got up instantly. It wasn’t like Leon to be this dramatic. “Come in!”
Leon walked in briskly. He moved towards Arthur immediately. “Arthur, I need your help.”
“What is it?”
“Gwen and Merlin have been banished from Camelot!”
Arthur’s eyes widened. He wasn’t surprised to hear about Merlin, but why would Gwen be banished?
“Your father is lying to you, Arthur,” Leon continued.
“What? Leon that is a serious accusation!”
“I know. I could hardly believe it myself, but I heard it with my own ears.”
Arthur walked towards Leon and put his hand on his shoulder. “What did you hear?”
“Merlin walked into the throne room and he told Uther that he’d done what he’d asked. He told Uther that he’d broken your heart. The guards seemed to be holding Gwen prisoner and when Merlin told him what he’d done, they released her. Then he banished them from Camelot. He said if they ever came back, he would kill them.” Leon explained.
Arthur’s hand slid from Leon’s shoulder. “My father told Merlin to break my heart?”
“Yes. Merlin was lying to you. He loves you. Gwen told me that. She had me get a knight’s uniform so Merlin could sneak in here.”
Arthur turned his back on Leon. He was panting. He couldn’t even bask in the fact that Merlin really did love him. He was enraged at his father. He’d tortured Merlin and made him break his heart. He knew the gut-wrenching pain he felt when Merlin told him he didn’t love him. He couldn’t imagine how Merlin felt being forced to do that, and then to be banished from Camelot.
He turned back to Leon. “Leon, I need you to prepare my horse. I promise you that I will find Gwen and Merlin. My father will not get away with this.”
~*~
After dropping her bombshell, Morgana had requested that they speak in private. Gwen took them to the cabin Leon kept her in during the full moon.
Morgana could see that Merlin was trying to process her confession. He wasn’t looking at her with suspicion anymore. She could tell she had his sympathy.
When they got to the cabin, Morgana collapsed in a chair. Merlin was agitated and had started to pace. While it was good she had his sympathy now, she needed more than that.
Morgana sighed. “Ever since I was a little girl, I’ve had prophetic dreams. I can’t control them. They just happen. Gaius used to give me a draught that helped stop the dreams from happening, but ever since Uther had Gaius thrown in the cells - ”
“Uther did what?” Merlin yelled. “Arthur told me that Uther had Gaius banished.”
Morgana shook her head. “Uther lies as easily as he breathes. He lied to Arthur. Years ago, when Uther had the entire dragon lords killed, Gaius helped your father escape.”
Merlin gasped.
“I can’t even begin to describe how much Uther hates your father.” Morgana eyed Gwen. She was watching Merlin carefully. She was clearly worried. Morgana couldn’t have Gwen interfering with her plans. Morgana looked at Gwen. “Gwen, I don’t mean to be rude, but I really need to talk to Merlin privately. Can you wait outside?”
Gwen’s brow furrowed.
Merlin reached for Gwen. “I don’t think that’s a good idea. I don’t want her waiting out there alone. Uther’s guards could have followed us.”
Morgana narrowed her eyes at him. Gwen stared at her for a moment. She then turned to Merlin and smiled. “It’s alright, Merlin. I can take care of myself. I’ll just be right outside.” Gwen smiled tightly at Morgana and left.
Morgana watched her leave. After the door closed, she got up and walked towards Merlin. “I’m so sorry to tell you this, Merlin but it was Uther that killed your father.”
Merlin opened and closed his mouth several times. He looked shell-shocked. “How do you know?”
“I heard him speaking to his guards about it. They caught me eavesdropping and that’s when Uther told me he knew about my magic. He threatened me to keep what he’d done a secret. He’s been using me to spy on Arthur ever since.”
Merlin’s fists clenched. His face was turning red. “All of this time…he killed my father. I don’t understand. Camelot was under attack. Why would he kill my father when he knew he could help?”
Morgana looked down at her feet. She hated how long this was taking. Why was Merlin asking so many questions? “He knew about you and that Arthur would find you and then you could help. He allowed you to stay because he wanted to kill you. He knew he couldn’t do it right away or Arthur would hate him. He was just biding his time.”
Morgana turned her back on him. “Don’t you see what an evil man he is? He has to be stopped!” She whirled around to face Merlin.
Merlin was biting his lip so hard; his lip was starting to bleed.
“He raised me and he’s still willing to torture me like this. He’s still willing to kill me. He’ll hurt anyone. Look what he’s doing to Arthur. How he’s trying to control him. Arthur will become just like him, Merlin.” Merlin’s eyes widened.
Morgana strode toward Merlin, grabbing his arms. “He must be killed. You have to kill him. You must avenge your father. Uther has slaughtered our kind for years. You have to avenge them.”
Merlin stalked across the room and gripped the edge of the table. He lifted it up slightly and banged it against the floor.
Morgana was filled with manic glee. Merlin was almost ready.
Merlin whirled around to stare at her. “Uther is the poison, not us. He deserves to die slowly, cut into a thousand pieces. He does deserve to be punished.”
Morgana bit back a smile.
“But I can’t kill him.”
‘What?!” Morgana screeched.
“If I kill him, I become just like him. And no matter how repellant he is, he’s still Arthur’s father. Arthur loves him. If I killed him, Arthur would hate me.” Merlin shook his head. “There has to be another way.”
Morgana smiled. “There is.” She walked towards Merlin. Her eyes glowed golden as she recited an incantation. Merlin stilled in front of her.
Morgana sighed disgustedly. “I should have known you weren’t man enough to do this on your own.” She walked up to Merlin and got right in Merlin’s face. “You are my puppet, Merlin. You will do whatever I ask. And what I ask of you is to rid this world of Uther Pendragon. You will neither sleep nor eat until your task is complete. The only thing you know is Uther Pendragon and killing him.” She stepped back. “Do you understand?”
Merlin blinked at her. “Yes.”
She conjured up a bow and arrow and handed it to Merlin. “This arrow will always find its target.” She sneered. “Uther is a horrible man, but he has two weaknesses – Arthur and his beloved, Ygraine. Once a month Uther goes to visit Ygraine’s grave.” Morgana’s eyes glowed again and a map appeared in her hand. “This map details the route he will take.” She pointed at an X on the map. “Fire the arrow from this spot here and you’ll be hidden from sight. Is that clear?”
Merlin nodded.
“Good. You have your orders, now go!”
Merlin gripped the arrow tightly and marched out of the room.
Morgana smiled widely. Her smile disappeared when Gwen came storming into the room.
“What’s happened to Merlin? He just ran out of here without answering me. He was caring some kind of bow. I don’t understand where he even got it.” Gwen said.
Morgana put her hand to her chest. “Well I gave it to him. How else is he to kill the king without a proper weapon?”
Gwen’s mouth fell open wide. “Kill the king?”
“Yes.” Morgana inhaled deeply. She walked over to the back of the room. “Now I can’t have you interfering with what Merlin has to do. Luckily for me someone else has provided the perfect way to get you out of my hair.” She smiled as she picked up the shackles on the floor.
~*~
Uther stormed out on to the knight’s training grounds. He strode over to Leon. “Arthur is nowhere to be found.”
Leon feigned shock. “Oh my goodness, sire. We were wondering where the prince was.”
“He’s gone after that horrible boy!”
“Merlin?”
“Yes!” Uther hissed. “I’ve already sent my men after him, but I know you are the best tracker we have. I need you to find him, Leon.”
Leon nodded. “Of course, sire. I’ll do whatever I can.”
Uther nodded shortly.
Leon held back his smirk as he watched Uther stride away.
~*~
Arthur pushed his horse to his limit as he galloped through the path in the woods. Leon had told him of a cabin that he used to hide Gwen. Arthur had been shocked when Leon had told him of Gwen’s condition. It was a little hard to believe, but he had no time to ponder such matters.
Arthur heard several hoof beats behind him. He was surprised his father’s men had found him already. He pulled on the reins and turned, guiding his horse through another path higher above ground. He hopped off his horse and hid behind some trees, holding the reins firm. He watched his father’s guards down below. They stopped and looked around. When they couldn’t spot him, they rode on. Arthur sighed in relief.
He mounted his horse again and rode furiously, using an alternate path. It would take a bit longer, but he couldn’t let Uther’s men find him.
He finally arrived at the cabin. He heard no sounds coming from the cabin. It felt odd, but he figured Gwen and Merlin was trying to hide and would not try and draw any attention to themselves. He dismounted his horse and quickly tied it to a tree. He approached the cabin slowly. He didn’t want to spook them. When he got to the door, he knocked softly. “Merlin! Gwen!” He heard some rustling inside. He tried the handle and it opened easily.
Arthur’s eyes bulged when he walked into the room. Gwen was gagged and her arms were shackled above her. She had a nasty bruise forming on her forehead, with a tiny drop of blood running down. He rushed to her and took the cloth from her mouth. “Gwen, what happened? Where’s Merlin?”
“Morgana!” Gwen gasped.
“What?”
“Morgana she chained me here. She did something to Merlin. She’s going to have him kill Uther!”
Arthur gasped. “I don’t understand why would do this? She wouldn’t…”
Gwen shook her head. “I don’t understand it either. But she has magic, Arthur. She wants Uther dead. If you don’t stop him, Merlin is going to kill him.”
Arthur looked around frantically. ‘Where’s the key?”
“I don’t know if Morgana took it. It should be on the table.” Gwen said.
Arthur hurried to the back of the room and found the key on the floor by the table. He ran over to Gwen and unlocked the shackles. “Hurry, Arthur! Go! If Merlin kills your father, he’ll never be the same!”
Arthur took one last look at Gwen and sped from the cabin. He knew exactly where his father was headed.
Part 7
