Earth X Victory excerpt

 

“You've won, alright Adrian? I am your pet and your slave, as Overgirl decreed. You have me, I'm fairly certain I'm the one you want. Please I will do anything, I will bow myself to you, confess my faults and your greatness before The Assembly itself if you want. Just please, leave my friend out of this. Keep her in the work-camp. That's where she's from isn't it? She serves quietly and calmly, quite content to be ignored by literally anyone. So send her back there, let her work the fields or in the kitchens. You'll get no trouble from her know her that well. Just please don't do this to her.”

“How do you know this Sasha Scott is anything like your...whatever she was to you?”

“Sasha has the same open-face across the multiverse. She's the antithesis of polluted. She sucked at lying and abhorred obfuscation. I know this from the four plus years she spent dropping in on my team and my friends. This woman, this bait you have in front of me has lived her life downtrodden and put upon. She sees the fuhrer when she looks at me. I know this is not her, the woman I knew. For one, Sasha is gone from my life. And it is not sentiment. At least, not on behalf of the woman I knew. One thing you should know about us hero types is we will attempt to save any innocent life we have the power to save. It tears us up if we can't.”

“You mean like this?” Adrian pulled Sasha by her hair, backward into his lap. He leaned over her and kissed her forcefully, passionately and in what seemed like an eternity. I saw his hand run down her side and without even looking he undid the strings of her...knickers was the only word I could think of. This version of Sasha must have been used to such treatment: she didn't struggle at all. And somehow that was the worst part of watching Adrian with Sasha. Not that they shouldn't know each-other, or seeing Prometheus of all people victimizing her. But that she never fought him. Sasha as I knew her was, an incredibly strong-willed woman. She wasn't a fighter and she was nearly incompetent as far as combat. But she was full of her own kind of strength. She had convictions that could give her fire. She burned inside when she saw suffering. You tell her to do something she knew was wrong she'd give you hell.”

“And you saw her being such a victim, so familiar with abuse that it would never occur to her to fight back.” Leo Snart whispered. “It probably didn't feel all that different.  That sounds like a whole lot of suck' even by our standards.”

The True King's Truest Friend

In an Alternate Universe where Morganna is on the throne, Uther is in hiding under Merlin's care and Arthur is a prisoner. Merlin is sharing what he knew and what he had learned in the year leading up to Morganna taking the throne at the end of season 3 of Merlin. Basically in this history...they never retook Camelot from the army of the dead Morganna and Morgouse had summoned.

Excerpt First:

To tell the truth sire, I honestly think Morgouse makes sense by comparison!”

“Merlin, why are you squirming in your own body as if you were afraid I'd attack you for telling the truth? I should be thanking you for being so completely open with me. I do notice I seem to scare you. It makes sense and was the most natural thing in the world when I wore a crown and asked you to keep an eye out for witches and wizards. Given what you told me keeping silence could not have settled well with your honest heart, keeping quiet from me to say nothing of how close you are to my son. He would have hated you for for thinking this. Morganna is queen now and I do not wear a crown. I cannot command you to speak much less have you thrown in a dungeon for speaking. As I recall I did once ...actually throw you in jail. So, why do you still seem so scared of me?”

Several silent moments passed.

“The third reason I come as often as I do...” Merlin fussed with the tail of his shirt. “Sire if I continue, if I keep saying these things, in a few minutes I will be begging you for leniency.”

Uther looked confused and stunned. After a moment he chuckled shakily. “Either you have a very awkward sense of humor or a very loose grip on reality.”

The True King's Truest Friend

Merlin stepped into the road, his hands apart, palms open. “You promise you will leave him in peace, alive and free? I have your word on that?” His voice was flat but sincere, a feat only he could have pulled off.

“I give you my word, if you come with me now, he will leave free.”

“...Then leave him alone, and keep me.”

Quick as lightning Morganna shoved Gwaine aside and wrapped cords around Merlin's wrists and mouth. As the Queen dragged Merlin away Gwaine's head lifted, as though looking around for the source of a sound. Merlin must have sent him a message in his mind. Gwaine was the closest friend he had, save perhaps Arthur himself, and had always considered Merlin his only friend. So whatever Merlin wanted to say, if anyone was going to hear a silent message it would have been that amazing knight of Camelot. Gwaine kept himself still until Morganna and her people were out of sight. When he stood up again he had a very confused look on his face. “Where do I even begin to look?”

“Is someone there?” a voice croaked.

“I guess so.” A young man whispered. “Are you who I'm here for? Have I found Arthur's father?”

“Yes, that much I can claim. Please come out of the shadows.”

Gwaine followed the man's instructions and stepped into the room. He quickly sheathed his sword and bowed his head to Uther, who did not respond except to raise an eyebrow. “I realize I am probably the last person you want to see.” Gwaine said plainly. “Merlin told me to find you. And I think he asked me to care for you. What can I do to help?”

“You can stand up straight and look me in the face.” Uther said briskly. “You owe me no special honor, no one does. And as for the other part...Whatever disagreements we had before are certainly irrelevant by now, would you agree?”

“Yes I suppose so. It will be difficult to unlearn something I've lived with all my life however. And I don't mean knowledge of what nobles expect. With the exception of your son, I have always hated and distrusted nobles, royalty even more so. I will be better than that in time...but it will take time.”

“By the graciousness of your words and peace in your eyes I'd think you were born a nobleman.”

“I was sire. But I rejected that life long ago. I learned from my father's life that titles don't mean anything. And never found a nobleman who deserved that title until Merlin insisted...” His voice caught. “When I first met them, when I was carried into Camelot over a year ago, Merlin would not stop insisting that Arthur was different, that he was indeed a noble-man and worth dying for. At first I thought he was only saying that to make the best out of a bad situation...or that he was just easily swayed. Then I saw it for myself: Arthur is different. Eventually I decided that if Merlin thought he was worth dying for...”

“What has happened to him?” Uther said suddenly. “You would not have this pained a look every time you mention his name if something wasn't sad about that story. What has happened to him?!”

“...He gave himself up...to save a friend.”

“...And for a chance to make things right with a friend.” Uther said with a queer smile. Gwaine looked at Uther as thought he thought the man was talking nonsense...or had finally had too much to drink.

“Forgive me sire but, what do you mean by that?”

“Arthur is Morganna's prisoner. The last thing Merlin and I talked about was how much he regretted, I would almost say hated himself for not going back for Arthur. If only for a final chance to see him. I told him he'd never make it all the way to the dungeons without being caught.”

“So he had them bring him to the dungeons, knowing he could sneak around from there! That actually makes me feel better.”

“Merlin is...far wiser than most people know.”

“I am...honestly not sure what to say to that.”

“Gwaine...how well do you know Merlin?”

“I know he's the only friend I had in the world. I know he is tireless and endlessly patient. I know his heart carries a secret weight and if he doesn't want to share it with me I'm in no place and not of the inclination to press him on it.”

“Very wise. I should tell you he shared that secret with me. The night before he left he told me he needed to share something with me. That there was something about him I needed to know or at least he needed someone in this kingdom to know. Then he went off to right one last wrong and speak openly with Arthur, come what may. Now I think I should tell you. You should probably sit down, it will be easier for you to hear what I have to say.”

“Sire, how can you be sure he would want this?”

“Well for one, he spoke of you as his closest friend in Camelot and of all the knights you are the man who thinks most like him and stands by him through everything. From the way he talks about you, you are the only friend he has to whom he would share so much of himself, and would trust you with it. Also, he did give himself up to save a friend. I think getting inside the castle was an ancillary benefit to saving you from Morganna's clutches.” Gwaine smiled shyly. “To be perfectly forthright Gwaine, I think you're the only person in the kingdom, other than my son for whom Merlin would gladly give his life. Now sit down and listen I have, an amazing story to tell you.”

This is the Story Uther tells:

“Why would you do this for me?” the former King Uther Pendragon asked of the young man who had sheltered him for nine weeks without complaint.

“Forgive me sire, I do not understand.” Merlin asked the man.

“I cannot command you. I would not ask this of you if I could. Why are you being so kind?”

'There are many good reasons why I should sire. Arthur is one good reason. I do what I can to help him. I would follow him to my death if I could, he asked me to care for you and I don't really have any reason not to...” The young man bowed his head. “You did as me to speak without restraint or overly-tempered words.”

“Indeed, and I'm glad to see you finally followed that instructions...and that is what it was.”

“I don't...You mean it wasn't an order from a king, just an instruction from an elder?” Uther nodded vigorously. “Yeah, it really does make sense. Arthur liked that about me anyway.”

“You speak of him as if relaying a story that has come to its end.”

“I don't mean to sire. He's still alive. I'm just not with him in the same way I was, back when we were traveling together and I seldom left his side. Even back then, he always liked that I didn't use false compliments or courtly manners.” The young servant's eyes grew distant, remembering the good old days, knowing they would never come again. Uther decided to leave the man in peace with his thoughts. A few minutes later Merlin shook himself out of his thoughts and smiled faintly at Uther.

“Seriously the last order Arthur ever gave me was to do what I could for you. I won't deny I think Arthur would make a better and more worthy king than you were. He would outshine you in forbearance as justice every bit as much as you overshadow and tower over, in those principles, the woman who has the throne now. How Morganna has managed to justify the things she's doing. It makes me sick. Also...and I hope you'll forgive this...”

“It puts my reign in perspective.” Uther finished for the lad. Merlin's head shot up to the roof. Staring the former king in the face, he waited for some explanation to come forth. “I don't actually disagree with you Merlin! I don't understand what happened to her, but Morganna is as consumed with selfishness as she is with the lust for power. And Arthur is ready to be a king and his reign will...he would be a better king than I ever was. I have no reluctance about admitting that! Stop tip-toeing around the basic truths you and I have come to see so clearly.” In response to this admission Merlin put his head down and looked at his own feet. “What is it Merlin?”

“It's time I told you as much of the truth as I ever learned...as much of it as you wish to know. What you think of me after this...it will be a revelation before the evening is done, I can assure you of that...is entirely your affair. But I want you to see the complete picture...and know exactly how long ago I figured most of these secrets out.”

“Starting with the secret of Arthur's birth.” Uther prompted.

“And that Morganna was your natural daughter.” Merlin replied instantly.

“...You have my attention.” Uther breathed.

Merlin pulled a small bottle of wine out of his satchel and poured the drink into two small cups that would fit on tea plates. “Raspberry wine. I think we both will need it before too long.” After handing the king a mug he sat on the floor and motioned Uther to sit back against the wall. “Morgouse was a liar and an enchantress. But her deception was made all the more powerful because there was a streak of truth to it. Arthur could not have forgiven himself if he'd...done what he was about to do, so I pulled him back from it. But I have known since that day why Arthur has no memories of his mother.”

Uther actually smiled at that. “Your perception and insight have ever been as sharp as an eagles or lioness. I have always said so.”

Merlin's eyes flashed briefly and Uther pushed his lips closed, sensing this was a difficult thing for Merlin to say and he needed his concentration...and the courtesy of not being interrupted in his story. “Morganna's birthday celebration was the next...revelation. When her head was cracked I...I heard what you told her when you sat with her. Strange thing is...I think she might have heard it too. Either that or she found out pretty soon after. He face was a mask but not just a closed door, there were dark things behind her eyes after that. I'm sorry, I really have no other way to describe it. She was one of the first people I met in Camelot who talked to me without barking orders, including...actually especially Gaius and Arthur. She didn't' mean well to any of us anymore. I didn't know what to make of it, or what to do about it...so I did nothing at all.”

“I don't even think this was intentionally Morgouse's doing.”

“ –WHAT?!!
“Morgouse wanted to right the wrongs done to her kind under your rule. Morganna wanted to make you pay for lying to her and take her 'rightful place' on the throne. Morgouse showed her that she wasn't a monster, and she came to see you as one. Morgouse would rather you be forgotten or dead. But that would be the end of it. From her perspective she's interested in justice not vengeance. Making you suffer before you die was never her goal. And she...she has a head on her shoulders compared to Morganna that...I can't believe I'm actually saying this..."

"That surpasses the same comparison for Arthur and myself." Uther finished for him. 

"To tell the truth sire, I honestly think Morgouse makes sense by comparison!”

“Merlin, why are you squirming in your own body as if you were afraid I'd attack you for telling the truth? I should be thanking you for being so completely open with me. I do notice I seem to scare you. It makes sense and was the most natural thing in the world when I wore a crown and asked you to keep an eye out for witches and wizards. Given what you told me keeping silence could not have settled well with your honest heart, keeping quiet from me to say nothing of how close you are to my son. He would have hated you for for thinking this. Morganna is queen now and I do not wear a crown. I cannot command you to speak much less have you thrown in a dungeon for speaking. As I recall I did once before. I had you thrown in jail for something or other. So, why do you still seem so scared of me?” Several silent moments passed.

“The third reason I come as often as I do...” Merlin fussed with the tail of his shirt. “Sire if I continue, if I keep saying these things, in a few minutes I will be begging you for leniency.”

Uther looked confused and stunned. After a moment he chuckled shakily. “Either you have a very awkward sense of humor or a very loose grip on reality.”

“Gwaine and Arthur know without a shadow of doubt that I would jump down a dragon's throat to save them, if I didn't trip over my own feet first. You were the first person in Camelot to know how far I would go to keep him safe, to defend Arthur from his enemies. But they don't know how much I could do trying to defend them. This should give you an idea.” He picked up the plate upon which he had served the king his supper, holding it eye-level on his left hand, and raised his right hand high above the plate. He said a spell in his mind and the exact meal Uther had just finished reappeared. The same except for a few extra pieces of fruit and darker red jam for the bread. He turned to face the fire pit at his left. The flames were almost down to embers. “Enthal.” he whispered. Suddenly the flame grew brighter and stronger. The next moment he pulled himself to his knees in front of Uther and bowed his head.

“What do you mean by this?” Uther asked with a kind of stern kindness.

When Merlin raised his head his face was whiter than normal.

“What do you think you need my pardon for? Do you think it is worse being a sorcerer or keeping quiet about Morganna's true intentions?”

“To be honest, neither.” Merlin answered after a moment. “Morganna was too precious to others, and wore her mask of happiness so convincingly nothing could have come from trying to tell people the truth. Not to mention it would have gotten me beheaded or exiled. If I hadn't overheard her talking with Morgouse one night I wouldn't have believed it. And I will Ne-ver regret being what I am. What I'm asking you to forgive is my plain cowardice...that I didn't do more to fight Morganna when she seized the throne. For leaving Arthur languishing in that cell when I could so easily break him out and guide him here to be with you..”

“..It wouldn't be easy and I think you know that.” Uther interrupted him. “Unless you can turn yourself invisible you'd never get to the cells. Without revealing your powers to him, you could never tell him how you rescued him at all.”

“But...isn't that cowardice?”

“No matter how powerful, one man cannot move the earth. Are you sincerely asking that?! Preserving your friendship with my son and choosing instead to follow what is by your own words the last order he ever gave you, and look after me? I know how you must hate me. I know now why I scare you so badly: You were helping me with your magic every day but hiding in the corner, hiding your power so I'd accept your help. Merlin you are probably the bravest man I know!”

“...I don't hate you sire.” Merlin fumbled his words. “You scare me, or at least intimidate me, sure. But I couldn't hate you if I tried, not for doing what you honestly believe is best for your people...after knowing what trusting magic cost you. To be blunt I must ask you to please, NOT presume to know my mind if that's the kind of thing you think is in my heart.”
“I...I don't know what to say.” Uther Pendragon stammered, starring at the man who had stayed with him in hiding, for eleven weeks, the entire time caring for him as a doctor cares for his patient, or a father for his son. This wasn't the main thought in his head however. His first thought was 'am I finally seeing things that aren't there...or am I finally seeing things clearly?”

"Was I always wrong about you or are you as selfless as you seem?"

“And THAT is the reaction I'd expected you to have about this.” Merlin stated flatly. “Not all people with magic want destruction and death. My powers don't corrupt me. Morganna's magic unto itself didn't corrupt her. I learned from Gaius the purpose of my skills and that magic should only be used for great deeds. All Morganna ever heard was that magic was evil and 'those who practice magic should never be trusted'. Is it any wonder when someone taught her to accept herself she turned her back on the people who so shunned people like us...because believe me if she learned I had magic she'd be asking me that: Why I don't stand with her, why I won't stand up for 'people like us'. I'm not like her just because I have magic, any more than I'm like Morgouse, Nimweh or the old druid for that matter. My mother made me who I am, my loyalty to Arthur gave me purpose and Gaius wisdom and encouragement kept me on a noble path. Had things been different I would have been honored to call Arthur my friend. As it stands I do what I can to keep him safe. If I'd been able to look HIM in the eye without fearing what he'd do if he found out that magic lives in my veins. Well, it does, literally. And that changes nothing about me...except in the eyes of people like you.” Having been staring Merlin in the face the entire time, Uther of course noticed Merlin's mouth did not move as he spoke these last few words. Those words were his thoughts, which he had sent to the kings mind, unable to keep the anger out of his voice any longer. A moment later he realized the truth: Merlin was showing him the extent of his powers and proving he would never use them to cause pain, not even to a man he had every right to call his enemy.

Merlin drew himself to his knees before his liege. Who stood their stunned and confused. “Why are you doing this?” He asked the young man. 'Asking forgiveness for cowardice as if you've been anything but noble and brave. Merlin if anything I should be thanking you. You have used you powers for nothing except keeping us fed and warm, and kept your powers hidden from me so I would accept you help. That is hardly a cowards move. The last thing Arthur asked of you was to care for me and you have, proving if nothing else you are as loyal to him as I first believed. I'll never understand you, but I am indebted to you. Now get. up. And answer your promise.”

As he saw Merlin walk away from him for what might be the final time, determined and calm, Uther felt a deep sense of admiration for the man. But he knew it went deeper than that. At one point Arthur would have had him banished, imprisoned or executed for the revelation Merlin was about to give, and that didn't seem to matter to the man, as much as telling Arthur the truth and sparing him further suffering under Morganna's watchful eye. Uther was overcome with a sensation he had rarely experienced and bowed his head in genuine shame.

Lancelot is alive. Uther doesn't realize it but the reason Merlin does not speak of sharing this part of himself with him is because Lancelot already knows! 

Revolutionary Mercy

 The key words for this would be "Limada" and "attends" Which is French for "wait".

As he looked out to the approaching army, Balian wasn't sure how to feel. It was not his responsibility to protect Kerak, at least he owed the lord of that keep no duty. Reynald had been in part responsible for angering the Saracens enough to attack the city in the first place. But before coming to the holy land Balian had been given a charge to be both fearless and just and to protect the people of this kingdom. It had been his father's dying wish and did not make allowances for who to save or defend. Besides, there were too many people fleeing into the city that would be run over by cavalry if he did not at least hold the enemy off. Almaric, his father's best man trotted to be right beside Balian.

“We cannot attack that, and live.” He observed placidly.

“True.” Balian agreed softly. “But there are too many out here who will die if we don't.”

“I'm with you Milord. On both counts.”

“That may be the last decision you ever make.” He answered with a small smile.

“We've a saying in these parts that a good death is its own reward. I want to test that theory.”

“...Then let's get this over with.”...In the minutes that followed Balian led a straight line charge against the enemy host. Both lines broke apart to attack either side of the other army. It was a fight almost completely on horseback for Balian until a spear went through the neck of his charge. He lept off just before the beast crashed to the ground. Somehow he'd managed to keep a tight hold on his sword and sliced the throat of the nearest dark-clad solider. He heard a cry, a challenge of some sort from his left and turned to face his attacker. He swung Godfrey's sword with all his might. For the second time since coming to the holy land he found himself with a challenging fighter. Not only had this man given defiance and singled him for combat, he seemed just as skilled as the Saracen Balian had fought just after the shipwreck. He didn't have time to lose himself in his memories however. Twisting his wrist he lifted his sword to the height of his opponents head. In one stroke he sliced the soldier's face.

Rather, he cut the mans cheek. The wound could not have been serious but the solider staggered back as though something had knocked the breath out of his lungs. Balian knocked the sword out of his opponents hand. In a few moments his own blade was at the Saracen's heart.

“Sursis” The man stated plainly.

“Give me a reason.” Balian said testily. At that moment he heard a cry from another Saracen solider. The man's eyes were almost frenzied. “Lays hu” The first warrior barked. Balian could not understand what the command had been, but the cavalry soldier immediately turned to fight another opponent. For a moment everything seemed silent around Balian, including the man in front of him.

The man made a few statements in Arabic, words that spread through his army like flames. Balian reckoned the instructions had been similar to the 'cease fire' order he'd given his own troops. When both messages had been carried out, Balian stood and faced the other officer directly.

“Who, which side has even won this day?” Balian inquired.

“This day is not over yet. I am certain the armies of Jerusalem and of my lord Saladin (Sa-la-ho-deen) are on their way. But this field is yours. I have no reluctance about that.”

“I honestly don't...” Balian began. His words died in his throat when the man put his arms straight out in front of him, palms facing upward. Recognition and near-joy washed over Balian's heart. He knew this man. Why he had failed to see it before didn't seem to matter, compared to meeting up with him again.

Almost as soon as he'd arrived in the desert, he'd been 'greeted' by a Saracen lord and his attendant. The lord had challenged him for possession of the horse he'd rescued from his shipwreck. Initially the man had charged Balian while remaining on his horse. On foot he'd barely stood a chance. It wasn't long into the 'skirmish' Balian declared himself the Baron of Ibelin and demanded a fair fight. After the claim was translated by his attendant, the lord obliged. A fair fight was not only deserved, it was expected. Balian won the skirmish easily. The blood from the final wound had gotten all over the servant's horse. An instant later the man was flat on his back in the sand. Walking up the stranger Balian noticed he had a young, handsome face, and strangely showed no sign of distress. He reached his hands out, palms up.

“I understand.” Balian responded. “It's not needful, but I understand. Get up.”

The stranger did so. It was only after he found a pack of dates and seeds, shoving several handfuls into his mouth, that he spoke again. “You have taken it very well I have killed your master.” The man didn't answer verbally, only gave him a thoroughly perplexed look. “Why are you not upset?” Balian clarified.

“We are taught nothing happens to those who believe unless Allah has made it so. I have no reason to regret my master is now in paradise. Although I could wish he had not left so suddenly.”

“I believe I understand. We can't stay out here. Take me to Jerusalem? I don't know the way.”

“I will bring you.” The man said, easily.

“How long though? I mean the journey, how far are we away from Jerusalem?”

“We should be there by nightfall.” Came the instant, soft reply.

The assertion was perfect. It was almost dusk when they trotted their horses close to the walls of the Holy City. Balian had kept side by side with his companion riding this far, but pulled himself just barely ahead of the stranger as they drew close. It was a gesture the man apparently understood as he slowed his steed and lowered his head slightly. A palm tree stood not far from the David Gate. It was a good place to rest. Balian drank a gulp of water and offered it to the stranger; an offer the man politely declined. Balian had remounted his horse at trotted several paces to the gate before he realized he was traveling alone.

“What is the matter?” Balian asked, looking back with a concerned expression.

“If it's all-right, I'll put a cloak around my face.” Came the cryptic reply.

“That's fine. But that's not what I mean.” Balian said shortly.

“Please, let it wait until we are safe, and a good way inside.”

“...All-right.”

The city of children and soldiers that was Jerusalem sprawled out before them. After passing some pottery stalls and more than a few fruit and herb sellers, Balian stopped in front of a water trough. The stranger dismount and patted the neck of the steed he'd been riding. After rummaging around in his sack he found a carrot stub to offer the beast.

“...Either you hide your feelings well or your people are not as passionate as we are led to believe.” Balian said suddenly. The stranger looked ready to smile. “I meant to explain my last question. I don't know much about life here but it IS strange to me...I don't even know your name?”

“I am called 'Nassir'...It means 'champion' or 'supporter'. What do you intend to do with me?”

“I can't ask you to follow me.” Balian replied thoughtlessly. “I go to the mound at Gethsemane. I am Godfrey's son, the baron of Ibelin, yet I'm a stranger here. I don't know what following me would mean for you. Will you be all-right on your own?”

The shock on Nassir's face was considerable. “I...yes. Your style makes sense now. Your fighting style I mean. It was unlike anything taught here. That last move in particular. I admit, I do not understand why...” His words failed him completely.

“Why I refuse to take you with me against your will as a slave, a prisoner or some such mess? In the village I'm from...I was not a slave but I had no other status that meant anything. I will not use a title I'm not sure I earned to make anyone feel inferior. Go in peace...What was the name of the man I killed?”

“His name was Mummad-al-Fais.” Nassir answered easily, mounting his own horse, and smiling.

“Please believe me...I hope he is in paradise now.” Balian offered simply.

“Thank you for your kindness.” The man answered. He raised his hand, palm up, and rode away.

“This explains a lot.” Balian said simply. It was not a joke, though Nassir smiled softly.

Almaric walked up and stood aside Balian. “I don't mean to tempt providence but, what has happened?”

“More to the point, what happens now?” Balian asked of Nassir. The man did not verbally respond. He gazed at Balian with intense, almost piercing eyes. “...I guess we wait and find out.” Balian suggested.

Saladin and King Baldwin of Jerusalem met in the middle of the field. They stood on their horses, not too far away at Balian's left. When the parley broke, Saladin rode his horse to greet Nassir.

The sultan dismounted quickly and walked straight up to his subordinate. Nassir placed his hand across his chest, with his fingers close to his shoulder and made a bow.

“One would expect greater losses from a battle such as this.” Saladin said in Arabic.

“I owe my freedom if not my life to this man.” Nassir replied. “I have for some time. Once I realized the commander I was fighting here, was the man who'd set me free...” He paused his words a moment, twisted his wrist and pointed to the cut on his cheek. “I do not see how I could have done otherwise.”

“Who is this man?” Saladin inquired, clearly interested.

“Balian of Ibelin, the son of Godfrey, and his heir.”

Saladin bowed his head a moment, sorrow for Godfrey's passing. “I did not know he had a son.”

“When I had Mummad al-Fais challenge who I thought was nothing but a lost traveler, the fight was less than fair until the stranger declared himself a lord. Mummad al-Fais lost his life in the skirmish. I was asked to take the lord to Jerusalem, once there, HE,” Nassir indicated Balian with his hand and with his eyes. “asked me to go my own way in peace. I can only assume Godfrey has passed his sense of justice and honor on to his children. And I must do the same.”

There was enough power in the last few words that, though he could not understand them, Balian lifted his head and stared with wonder at Nassir. 'I better ask him about that later...If I get the chance.”

“There will be no battle today. And I hope not in our lifetime. Will you let me take the others back?”

“If you refer to Nassir's soldiers, I will not keep them from you. I only hope God himself will make some great good come from this day. Beyond not leading us into pointless war.”

Saladin glanced at his friend before looking at Balian. “That is a thought we all share. Peace be upon you.” The Saracen king spoke a phrase in Arabic, remounted his horse and rode away.

Balian stared at Nassir, who stood motionless beside him. “Should you not follow him?”

Nassir stared at him with wide eyes. “If I have any sense of faith and honor, no!” Balian's jaw dropped. “You must see I offered a truce because I owed you my freedom. The hope and expectation I have is not just from that mercy. It is the work and will of our kings and leaders that the peace we have maintained these six years remains, and that is because of you. It is the same sense of justice and honor you showed when we first met. If you'll have me, I'll not leave your side.”

Balian seemed torn between embarrassment and elation. “What is the Arabic word for 'friend'?” He asked plainly. Nassir didn't seem to understand the question. “I do want you by my side. But only if you are truly by my side, not walking behind me. Do you understand?” Nassir dropped his head and raised it again. “I don't want to make you uncomfortable. It's just...Back home I was always told 'God moves in mysterious ways'. It seemed like just another way to tell us we had no idea what God was like or what he would have us do. I think I understand better now. He brought us together that day. No matter how it came about, He wanted us to meet, so something could change. You asked for a reprieve by that word instead of 'grace' or 'mercy'. I never had the chance to tell you what I sought here in the Holy Land. I won't search so hard after today but...if there is anything more...If our ideas of God and of other people our anything alike...”

Nassir cupped his hand over his own mouth. And when he'd pulled it back he was smiling broadly. “I would be a fool to think our meeting again and as equals was anything but the will of Allah. I never knew others were taught this. Our word for friend is 'Sajiq'. Since you seem to prefer it, I'll try to be more a friend than a servant. I would prefer it also. I would be happy if I could follow you, no matter what that meant.” He caught his breath and looked around, almost nervously. “I realize how absurd that must have sounded. But I've searched for a new way to live all of my life; I didn't care the hardship or strangeness. And I would be hard-pressed to find a MORE different life.”

Merlin's Amnesia

 

He awakens slowly. It is several moments before he feels that he is lying down. He wants to get up, but somehow this seems like a BAD idea. There is a faint voice behind him; someone is looking for him.

No, he is looking for someone called Merlin.

“but that's me” he thinks to himself, “isn't it?”

A young, blonde haired man approached him.; familiar and yet not so.

“Merlin there you are we thought we'd lost you!”

“What? Who?”

“Right, very funny Merlin.”

“Why do you call me that?

“It's your name when last I checked.”

“Then your check was wrong” Merlin said simply. “My name is Emrys.”

--the expression on the young kings face changed from bemusement to bewilderment in the blink of an eye. He quickly recovered however.

“Alright. I'll go along with this for now. But if it turns out you're faking it, you'll be polishing my armor til you're blinded from the glare!”

“You say that like it's a punishment? Wave of my hand glint of the sun, all better now.”

“He might have been drunk except that we'd been gone since first light” Arthur would say later.

“Are you two alright” a man called from a top the hill.

“No damage on my end Gwaine but uh, I think Emrys here could use one of Gaius' strongest tonics.”

“Gaius? Good man Gaius, love his books.”

This was getting to be too much for the young king. He could only hope Merlin WAS only pretending.

Several hours later, Merlin lay on his bed in Gaius chambers at the palace. Both Arthur and Merlin were standing over him.

“You say he didn't even know his own name?” Gaius asked Arthur presently.

“Worse than that Gaius. He called himself Emrys.” upon noticing Gaius' startled look, “that name doesn't mean anything to you does it?

“I'm afraid not sire. I'm left to wonder how his mind latched onto that name.”

“Perhaps he found it in one of your books. He did say you had very good books.”

“Funny, he didn't seem that interested in them before.”

“…Nor in polishing my armor.” At this Gaius started.

“He remembered that?!

“Well, yes. Why?’

“If he knows you and he knows me, then he knows what is familiar to him. It's all still in there somewhere. A few more days we might have the old Merlin back...but I think we should let him sleep.”

“I won't dispute that Gaius. Good night.”

Arthur walked out of the room into the hall. To his surprise he found Gwaine there, pacing nervously.

“How is he Arthur?”

“Gaius said it's not as bad as it looked. He says, give it a few days, he'll be back to normal. (Sigh of relief) Come on, let's go and have some supper. (relief instantly replace by sadness)

“What is it Gwaine?”

“I'll stay here, with Merlin. I'm not that hungry anyway.”

“I have never seen you tremble so much, even in combat. What's wrong?

“Aren't you worried about him?”

“Gwaine” he said slowly, “of course I am. But I can do nothing for him here and neither can you. I think we should go and eat something”

“Friends can help just by being their Arthur. Melin proved that to me long ago. I never told you this, but, though my loyalty is to you, My devotion is to him. He is my friend.”

Arthur stared as if he didn't know what to think.

“The simple truth is, unless you order me to the feast, I'm staying right here.”

“Then you should stay, and be with him.”

The sun was just beginning to peak through the window as Merlin finally woke up. There was a man in front of him, vaguely familiar. “Gaius” he guessed.

“...no. I uh sent him off to get some sleep about an hour ago.”

“and you stayed up with me?”

“Believe me Merlin, it was the least I could do.”

“May I ask you why?”

“I would think you were using false sincerity Merlin! But if you need to know, when I came to Camelot almost two years ago, I was, to put it mildly, an outcast. You were the only one who stood by me. When next we met, I called you the only friend I had. And I believe you still are.”

“I'm sorry...I can't even remember your name.”

(laughing) It's Gwaine. SIR Gwaine to most people now. But like I said, you and I go back too far for that. Arthur will be wanting to see you as soon as you are well enough.”

“Arthur? The man who found me? What am I to him?”

“I uh..I'm not sure I know what you mean.”

“If there's one thing I sense, remember or know, it's that I belong at Arthur's side. I'm hoping someone here will tell me why.” --Gaius approaches.

“You are his servant Merlin. That is your station. But I would somewhat think the two of you more, companions, if all were at rights.”

Gwaine stared at him as though fearing he'd gone senile. Apparently either his words, or the manner in which he said them were 'other than ordinary'. To Merlin it seemed Gaius was trying to send him a message, one that Gwaine wasn't supposed to hear.

“I should go to him.” Gwaine instantly stood up to protest:

“Merlin you're ill. I'm sure he'd understand.”

“no. let him go.” Gaius said gently.

Gwaine, will you stay a moment?” Gaius asked him when Merlin had left.

“Of course Gaius, what’s wrong?”

“I heard what you said a few moments ago. I have something to tell you I’m not sure you’d believe. Gwaine’s eyes widened a moment in expectation. It seemed to him that there was something dreadful in what Gaius was about to say.

I’m concerned about Merlin. If word got out about his condition…If Morganna somehow found out about it; he wouldn’t be the only one in danger.

“I’ve seen Merlin jump down a dragon’s throat for Arthur. As close to Arthur as he is, it wouldn’t surprise me at all if Arthur could be put in danger by this.”

“Indeed Gwaine. But that’s not all I was referring to.”

“I see Gaius.” Gwaine said with a somewhat sad expression on his face. “The issue isn’t whether I can defend Merlin; it’s whether he could trust me enough to let me.”

This was not entirely so, but Gaius decided to let the explanation suffice. “Gwaine I know he can trust you with his life. I just, I don’t want him to think you’re being a mother hen.”

“I believe I understand Gaius. When next I see him, I’ll ask him to join me on a ride?”

“Thank you Gwaine.”

Arthur is sitting at his desk. Merlin is moving about the chambers tidying and cleaning.

“Merlin, could you bring me the scrolls from the middle shelf of the cabinet?” Arthur asked without looking up from the tax records on his desk. Merlin looked over at the cabinet and pictured it in his mind. The door opened and the needed scrolls floated out and across the room, settling on the corner of Arthur's desk. Arthur looked up.

“Thank- how did you get over there so quickly?” Merlin turned to face the King.

“Sire?” Arthur reached for the scrolls.

“Never mind...” Merlin shrugged his shoulders and continued arranging the clothing in the cupboard. After sorting the tunics and breeches according to color, he placed the matching boots beneath each set.

“Merlin, (cough) bring me some water.” Merlin saw the pitcher in his mind and floated it across from the table. Arthur looked up and saw it when it was in the middle of the room. As it landed on his desk, he slowly moved his chair back – a small knot of fear forming in his stomach. He opened his mouth to speak, but the words refused to form in his mind from the shock of what he'd just seen. Finally, his voice broke through.

“MERLIN! WHAT ARE YOU DOING?” Merlin snapped around and saw the pale faced king. Arthur had risen from his chair and stood with one hand pointing at the vessel of water.

“You asked for the water, Sire.”

“NOT LIKE THAT! There are LAWS against magic. You know this!!”

Merlin held his hands loosely by his side with his palms facing forward. “I swear to you, I didn't know! I didn't remember!”

Arthur stepped around his desk to his servant. Merlin backed up against the wall behind him. “How long have you been able to use magic?”

“Until this morning, I didn't know that I could. I reached for my scarf, and it jumped in to my hand.”

“Did anyone see you do this?” Arthur grabbed Merlin's shoulder.

“I was in my room alone. I was well away from the window.” Arthur's steel eyes looked right into Merlin's. he could not see any signs of dishonesty, but that did not mean Merlin had just been careless.

“Has anyone seen you use magic before now?”

“I haven’t noticed anyone reacting to it. I think if anyone had seen me, you would have heard of it.” Arthur released Merlin and turned away. He picked up the pitcher of water, and then thumped it back onto the desk. Merlin did not move.

“I can barely believe this.” Arthur stated shortly. “In the past 5 years, I've learned to trust you with my life. And now you do this. Do you have any idea the sort of trouble you're in?”

Merlin nodded his head with wide eyes. “I don’t think I’ve seen you this angry before. But please, before you do anything, may I ask you something?

“Merlin, you must not have any idea what’s going on to ask a favor of me now.”

“Not a favor Milord, a question.”

“Make. It. Brief.” Arthur said thru gritted teeth.

“Will Gaius be all right?”

“Merlin, right now you are in more trouble than anyone could possibly be in, and yet you're more worried about Gaius than yourself.” A sad look passed over the king's face. “That is so like you. It's like you don't even care about yourself compared to others.”

“Sire, right now, I don't care what happens to me, but please, tell me he's going to be alright. At least that you won't blame him for me.”

“You think he knows?”

“If I've been here for 5 years, he must know.” Horrified, Merlin covered his mouth with his hand as if he could protect Gaius with that gesture. Arthur sank into the chair behind his desk.

“I shall talk to Gaius about you – and he. Until then, carry on with your duties. We shall speak later.”

Merlin tried not to shake as he bowed to the King. “Yes, Sire.”