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[merlin-canon-divergence-stories]

Shield of Camelot

Chapter 8 Lost

Percival groaned as he felt something wet hit his face. His abdomen felt like it was on fire, reminding him of his wound. He opened his eyes, and saw it was still dark and felt the wet hit him again. It was raining, and he realized the thicket wasn’t giving him as much protection as he thought it should. He needed to move, to find better shelter. 

He forced himself to move, but his limbs felt heavy, and he felt disoriented. He needed water, the river was nearby, but which way. He knew he had to get there, to drink some. It’d help clear his mind and ease his parched throat. 

He slowly dragged himself out of the thicket. He found instead of the river he was expecting, nothing but forest, and realized He’ exited a different way than he’d entered the thicket. He tried to force himself to stand to get a better view of his surroundings, but the pain that shot through his abdomen caused him to fall back on his hands and knees. This isn’t good. He thought to himself, as his body shook. He couldn’t stay here, he had to find something, anything better than the thicket for shelter from the rain. 

The dagger must have punctured something and whoever tended to me didn't realize it. He reasoned in his mind. I should have stayed put. Maybe they would have found me by now. Maybe it wouldn't hurt this much. He shook his head as the rain started to hit harder and tried to get his body to move. Another wave of pain went through him and he fell face first. As his consciousness faded he thought about his friends. If they'd ever find him, and if they'd be able to save him. 

Gareth sighed as they reached the bend alongside Merlin and Elyan. He quickly saw signs that someone tall had definitely been laying there. Merlin looked and nodded, “well, the fact he woke up is a good sign.”

Elyan nodded. “The fact He wandered off isn't though.” 

Gareth nodded. “There's tracks though. He may be looking for shelter.” He said, studying the ground. 

Merlin looked And nodded. “It’s very well possible, but with a wound like Ealdor described, if he were to brush up against anything, even if tended to, it would irritate and aggravate it, making it even more painful. Certain plants as well.” softly, eying the surroundings 

Gareth nodded, looking at the sky. “True, and I don’t like the looks of that either.” pointing to the sky, where the sun was coming up, a bit of pink in the sky showing gray clouds as well, and Gareth knew that they weren’t like that just because of the rising sun. 

Merlin nodded. “The sooner we find him, the better. Elyan, stick with the plan and stay here, Gareth and I will follow the tracks.”

Elyan nodded. “I hope you guys find him before the weather turns.” 

Merlin nodded, watching the sky. “Same here.” Then noticed Gareth's already ahead of them following the tracks. He goes to catch up, taking note of the plants that had been disturbed along the way.

[merlin-canon-divergence-stories]

Shield of Camelot

Chapter 7 Percival Alone and 7.5 Backstories and Revelations. 

Percival flinched as he woke, the sun shining brightly down on him. He felt dizzy and sick, and his body hurt, especially his abdomen. He slowly opened his eyes and saw that he’d washed up on the shore near a bend in the river on his back. He was surprised that he wasn’t hacking and coughing up water. It also didn’t feel like there was anything in his lungs, which confused him. He slowly sat up and felt pressure around his abdomen. He looked down and saw that there was a poultice stuck on by something on the wound and realized someone had tended to him while he was unconscious.

He looked around and didn’t see signs of anyone having been there, not even footprints in the mud and wondered if he’d been saved by a ghost, or was already dead and just didn’t know it. He pinched himself and flinched as the pain shot through his arm. Nope, I’m still alive. He thought, somewhat relieved. 

He then took a better look around, still sitting, trying to get his bearings. He really didn’t recognize anything, and didn’t even know which side of the border he was on. He remembered the fight, and falling in the river. He remembered getting hit in the head. He then remembered Leon and Gareth and how he’d covered their escape and tried to stand. Another wave of dizziness hit him as he did and he flinched, going back into a sitting position. 

He had water nearby, but he knew he needed to find food and shelter. Shelter especially, but he also knew that he shouldn’t move around too much. He stood, much slower this time, and found that if he went slow, the dizziness didn’t affect him as much. He tried to keep track of where he was as he followed the river. Occasionally his wound would throb, and he’d have to stop and sit as he got dizzy when it did. 

He also found that the more he moved, the more often it would happen. He also noticed that blood was starting to show on the poultice on his stomach and didn’t doubt that he’d made it bleed again by moving around so much. He saw that he was near a thicket as he drank from the river. He didn’t feel too hungry, which surprised him. He figured it was from the location of his wound and decided bedding down in the thicket right now was his best choice and managed to get himself in it. He flinched as his wound throbbed again. He needed to rest, and the sky was starting to darken. He knew nightfall wasn’t far behind, and was glad that it was summer time, as it stayed fairly warm, and the thicket would at least provide some cover, should it start to rain. 

He still didn’t know where he was, nor had he found food, but at least he’d found water and shelter. He just hoped that he’d be able to find his way home, or his friends would find him. He let his thoughts drift to his friends, the happy memories he had with them, while also chasing away the fears that plagued him. The fears that tried to get him to give up hope, that he was so far from home, that he’d never be found. He soon drifted off fitfully, too worn out to stay awake any longer. 

Gareth paced as the Camelot knights finally reached where Geraint had them set up camp that evening, his thoughts plagued with worry and dread for Percival. There’d been no word from Essetir, but there’d also been no sign of Percival. He suddenly found himself pulled into a protective hug and found himself face first in Gwaine’s chest. “It’s okay, you're okay.” he heard the older man say softly. 

He stiffened slightly, and saw that he was still a bit pale, but looking better than he was four days ago. “Brother, should you be out here. You’re still…” Gareth started, but stopped himself. 

“Merlin came along to keep an eye on me. He did try to force me to stay, but I would be dead if not for Percival. I will not abandon him. I will bring him home like he did me.” Gwaine said, eyes determined. 

Gareth nodded. “I feel the same. He’s out there alone because he was trying to protect me.” 

Gwaine smiled gently, releasing him and ruffling his hair. “We'll find him, I promise you. Merlin said that he wanted to talk to everyone about something and We'll head out in the morning.” 

He nodded as there's a yell from the opposite end of the camp about an Essetirian messenger approaching. Gwaine and the others stiffened at that and Gareth slid by to get a better view. As the rider drew close Gareth blinked, stunned and called out to the figure. “Gaheris!”

“Gaheris, isn't that a Camelot name?” He heard one of the other knights mutter as the messenger stopped at the yell as Gareth approached the messenger. 

Leon put a hand on Gareth’s shoulder as Arthur gave both the messenger and Gareth a look, seeing the recognition in the messenger's face as he dismounted, seeing both were around the same age. 

“It's Ealdor now, but it is good to see you safe and well away from your father. I was conflicted with my actions of lying to my king and helping the knight after he fell in the river; but seeing now you were one of the escapees, my conscience is clear.” the teen said gently.

“You know where he is?” Gareth asked as Leon let go of his shoulder, realizing that Ealdor was the disappeared boy Gareth had mentioned as they prepared for the patrol. 

“I know where I found and left him early this morning before returning to my king and telling him he was dead, which he's not. Follow the river on your side to the bend. I left him on his back after tending his wounds. I cannot guarantee that he's still there or his condition as his stomach wound was quite deep." Ealdor said calmly.

Gareth nodded As Arthur stepped forward. “You have our thanks. Out of curiosity, why do you turn against your own people and serve Cenred?” 

Gareth flinched as he knew why and Leon shook his head and sent an almost pleading look at Arthur, like he was silently telling him to use a gentler tone. 

Ealdor smiled grimly and looked at Gareth while dismounting his horse. “Is it okay if I tell them, Gareth, what your father did to your only childhood friend?” 

Gareth nodded as Gwaine gave him a from behind hug at that and Arthur flinched as Ealdor took a seat on a nearby log, letting his horse graze as he motioned for the others to sit. 

They did so, Gwaine sitting next to Gareth, knowing his brother would need the support. “Alvor was always strict with him, even when his wife was still alive. I worked in the household and witnessed a lot of the harsh words and insults directed at him, as well as the threats. He'd also starve him if Gareth didn't act the way a noble should or if he showed us any form of kindness and Alvor found out about it.” Everyone looked at Gareth at that and he shuffled nervously and Gwaine put an arm around his shoulder reassuringly and saw Ealdor glare at Leon, who looked ready to lend reassurance to the now Essetirian teen. 

Ealdor took a deep breath. “It wasn't until Gareth's mother died that Alvor became a bigger ass than that. Multiple times he'd take his rage out on Gareth and his servants. Blaming him and them for everything. It was seven And a half years ago when he tried to kill Gareth over him spilling something. I knew I couldn't let him. When I saw him running at Gareth, sword drawn, Gareth's back on the wall, I jumped on Alvor’s back…” Ealdor's hand went up to a scar just below his left eye, tensing as Leon put a hand on his shoulder reassuringly. 

“Appreciated, but I am an enemy right now, remember that.” He said coolly. 

“You are still a teen though, and right now, we aren't fighting, so there's no reason to not be kind.” Leon said gently. 

Ealdor forced himself to relax before continuing. “He struck at me instead, caught me here, at this scar. Gareth begged him to stop, not to hurt me further. Alvor told him that he'll teach him to be friends with those beneath him, grabbed me by the collar and dragged me outside to the stables, forced me onto his horse before mounting and took off. I had thought he would kill me. Instead, he sold me to Jarl.” 

Merlin, Gwaine and Arthur all flinched visibly at that, Gwaine instinctively pulling Gareth closer. “Jarl?” Gareth asks. 

“Slave trader who specializes in fighting slaves and fighting rings. I see they've met him.” Ealdor said. “I was there for two years before Cenred found me. He was looking for someone young but skilled in fighting to protect his son. I guess I impressed him because he bought me and several others close in age. Out of them, only me and two others have survived the attempts on Erik's life from those who don't see him as a legitimate heir.” 

Arthur nodded. “You feel you have to repay him for taking you from Jarl?” 

Ealdor chuckled. “Originally, yes. Erik is special. He wishes for peace but knows his father doesn't and wants to impress his father.” 

“Erik's why you chose to stay in service to Cenred. I can see it in your eyes.” Gareth said calmly. “He also gave You the name you go by. Your Essetirian name.”

Ealdor chuckled at that. “He said it means fate. He felt that it was fate that I was brought from Camelot into Essetir for his father to find  for him.” He stood up at that. “I better return. He'll be worried if I'm gone for too long.” He then gave a grim smile. “He's been quite shaken by actually wounding your knight friend. Kid's never even hurt so much as a fly before. I hope this helps Cenred see he's been too hard on Erik.” 

“Battle shock huh?” Leon said calmly. 

Ealdor nodded. “I've told you where to find your friend, now I must be off. Next time we meet, I don't think any of us will have the luxury of being so kind to each other.” Cooly. 

Gareth nodded firmly. “Understood, and when that time comes, I won't run, and I won't hide. We'll both fight for what's important to us. Don't die until then.” 

Ealdor smirked. “Same to you, Gareth. Till we meet on the field of battle, keep that head on those shoulders.” He said as he mounted his horse and rode back the way he came as the path continued to darken.

Gareth watched him, more relaxed than the others have seen him. “I intend to.” 

Arthur sighed at that. “Well, that was eye opening. I have an idea where it is that he left Percival, but we won't get there till morning.” 

“I'll go.” Merlin said quietly. “Gareth will come with me, as will Elyan. The rest of you, rest here. If he's still there, good. If not, I'll have Elyan wait for you there.”

Arthur looked reluctant to let him go with so few and was about to argue. Merlin sighed. “Look, I know you're worried about us being so close to the border, but the bigger the group, the more likely we are to be noticed. If Percival is wounded the way Ealdor said, then how much of a chance do you think he'll have if we're noticed by any Essetirians on that side of the river?”

Arthur sighed. “Fine, just, be careful. I still don't know if we're  doing the right thing in trusting him.” 

Merlin nodded as Gwaine reluctantly released Gareth. The two gathered their things and followed Merlin, hoping Percival was still alive and still in the area when they found him. 

[merlin-canon-divergence-stories]

Shield of Camelot

Chapter 6 Battling the forces of Essetir

Percival flinched as he threw off one of the soldiers as he tried to get at Cenred, glancing back and hiding the smirk at seeing his two friends had escaped. He flinched as one of the soldier's swords glanced off his armor and threw his opponent away from him and another took that one's place. 

He glanced at Cenred and saw he was keeping the boy, Erik, behind him while backing away from the fight. He frowned, remembering how his own village and family had been destroyed by Cenred's men. He knew he'd never be able to bring himself to hurt the child, but Cenred's men were another story. 

One smaller than the others yet bigger than Erik charged at him. He blocked, hesitant to strike and saw his new opponents eyes, fierce and determined. Percival blinked, he could tell that his new opponent was not Essetirian, not by birth at least. The teens' features were too fine for that. Percival blocked another blow from the teen and found himself actually forced back a few steps. 

The kid was strong, he'd have to give him that as his mind raced on how he could get out of the situation. The others were starting to surround him and he had to find something to put his back against to protect It, he knew that much. He flinched knowing that strategy was not his strong suit, and now he wished he'd paid more attention when Leon tried to teach him and the others. He shook his head as the teen charged him again and Percival stepped back. 

He flinched as he felt a log roll out from under his foot and he started to fall. He grabbed the teen as he fell, realizing that there was a hill behind him and figured that he may as well take an enemy with him. He felt bad that it was one so young, but the kid had tried to attack him again. He blinked as the teen shoved him away as they tumbled down the hill as Cenred and the others gave chase. Percival hit the bottom hard shoulder and hip first and he saw the teen simply roll after hitting and get his feet. 

Percival forced himself up, shoulder and hip aching and faced the teen, who'd already drawn his sword and charged at him again. Percival went to draw his sword and realized that he must have dropped it in the fall and all he had was the sheath. He slammed his sheath into the teens sword with all his strength, causing him to stumble backwards. 

“Sorry for this,” Percival muttered as he raised his sheath to strike again, hoping to Knock out the teen.

“Leave Ealdor alone!” He hears as Erik darts out, and thrust forward with something. Percival only realized it was the dagger Erik originally wielded after it found the opening in his armor at his abdomen. He muttered a curse as Erik let go and looked at his hands shaking and he heard Cenred panicked yelling out Erik and the other boys names.

He shoved Erik into the teen rough enough to make both fall before using his waning strength to run, hoping his mad attempt to escape didn't dislodge it and cause him to bleed out. He was certain he'd seen a river when he was tumbling down the hill. After he stopped to catch his breath he heard it, the sounds of a river.

He bolted in the direction of the sound as he heard the soldiers starting to catch up. He saw a bridge in the distance, it was old and falling apart. Percival hoped that if he crossed it, the soldiers would stop Chasing him. As he started to cross he heard a loud creaking sound and slowed, realizing that the bridge was a lot more unstable than he'd originally thought. 

Percival was halfway across when Cenreds men came into the clearing along with Cenred. Percival turns and sees Erik and the teen, Ealdor are being held towards the back and that Erik was keeping his face buried in Ealdor's chest, still shaking. 

Percival heard a snap from the bridge and he found himself in the river. He tried to make for the surface but felt something hit the dagger, sending pain through him as it dislodged. He saw the red mist that came out with it. He tried to shake off the dizziness and managed to break the surface, finding the water rougher than he thought And felt something hit him in the head as he lost consciousness. The last words going through his head were I'm sorry, I won't be coming home. 

Gareth saw Leon and his horse stop suddenly. “Leon?” He asked quietly. 

“Stay where you are. Don't move.” Leon said, clearly alarmed by something. 

Gareth obeyed and heard riders on horseback approaching from the direction they were heading. He saw Leon put his horse lengthwise across the path to protect him from whoever was coming. 

After a few minutes, Leon seemed to relax as a small patrol comes around the bend and Leon whispered “Geraint.” in a very relieved tone as he took note of who’s in the lead. 

“Geraint? Isn’t he supposed to be in charge of an outpost somewhere?” Gareth asks, trying to remember exactly what his father told him of the other knights. 

Leon nodded. “He is, yes. Whatever he’s doing here, I’m grateful for. Now I can get my arm tended to, and we can wait for Percival to catch up, or Cenred’s messenger.” Leon said, almost whispering the second part, not looking at Gareth at that. 

Gareth swallowed hard, and a lump formed in his chest at that. He knew what Leon meant, and that they’d had to live with it. He hated that he wasn’t experienced enough to fight. He hated that he had to be protected. That he still had a lot to learn before he could even be permitted on the battlefield where possible. More than anything, he wished there’d been something he could have done. He shook his head as Geraint and his group joined them, taking note of the injury to his arm and the crossbow bolts in Leons.

Geraint nodded. “Dismount, and we’ll tend to both of you. Arthur sent a fresh group to the outpost and called me back. He said that Merlin wanted us to take this path back. I can see why. Where’s your third person?” 

Gareth heard Leon swallow hard, clearly trying to keep his emotions in check. “Percival covered our retreat. We were hoping to wait for him a while.” 

Geraint nodded, dismounting his horse and Leon and Gareth did as well, Leon almost falling to the ground as his arm gave out as he did so and Geraint caught him. Gareth flinched as he came over, worried. Geraint nodded as Gareth put Leon's good arm over his shoulder to help support him. “So, this is the boy. Lord Alvor’s child. He’s nothing like his father.” 

Leon gave a half hearted laugh as he let Gareth support him. “Thank goodness for that. I don’t think Gwaine would have accepted him so easily if he was.” 

Geraint nodded, leading them over to a large log and having Gareth help Leon sit down. He took note of where the crossbow bolt had grazed the bandage on Gareth’s arm. “I have yet to meet those of the round table, but I’ve heard tales. If they’re as strong as some of the ones that pass through say, he will come.” 

“They’re strong, I’ll give them that, but they’re not invincible.” Leon said quietly. “Gwaine’s still out of commission, we almost did lose him. Elyan almost died as well, Lancelot is dead. He died twice thanks to Morgana. We can still die, Geraint. Those who speak of us, need to remember that.” Leon said quietly. 

Geraint sighed. “That’s the lot of a knight though. To die for our people. We are their defenders, and sometimes are the last line of defense against those who would see our kingdom fall. Not all knights realize this.” looking directly at Gareth at that. 

Gareth flinched at that, but saw that there was no malice in the older man’s eyes, just kindness and concern. “I’m well aware of our duty.” he said nervously. 

Geraint nodded. “I just wanted to make sure.” before going back to tend to Leon as they waited to see if Percival would turn up. 

[merlin-canon-divergence-stories]

Shield of Camelot

Chapter 5: Leon and Gareth

Percival entered Gaius’s chambers along with Leon, Elyan, Merlin and Arthur. Arthur grumbled that it was the middle of the night and that there had better be a good reason for this as he had to pass judgment on Sir Alvor in the morning. Percival looked at Merlin and saw he was smiling and relaxed, knowing Merlin knew something. Gaius motioned them over and pointed to where Gwain was actually sitting up, and was hugging Gareth protectively. He still looked pale and sickly, but he was sitting up. 

He saw Gwaine twitch slightly and looked over. “Well, are you guys just going to stare, or are you going to come over and say hi?” 

Percival smirked. “My apologies, none of us wanted to interrupt whatever this was.” motioning to him and Gareth. Gareth looked away embarrassed while Gwaine threw his pillow at him, which didn’t make it very far. 

Merlin chuckled. “Glad to see you’ve not changed Gwaine.” 

Gwaine flinched at that. “Glad to see my failure didn’t lead to your and Arthur's downfall.”

“You didn’t fail, Gwaine. Merlin was able to kill Morgana because you were able to stall her a bit. Though I don’t like what happened to you, nor do I ever want to see you like that again, he wouldn’t have succeeded if her toying with you hadn’t worn her down,” Arthur corrected firmly. 

Gwaine stared at Merlin, stunned, and Merlin hugged him. “Thank you, for pulling through. It’s been far too quiet,” Merlin whispered softly. 

Gwaine chuckled. “Oh don’t you worry, I’ve got some making up to do once I’m back on my feet. Gaius filled me in on some things.” He looked at Gareth, still held in a protective hug. 

Leon smiled gently, seeing Gareth. “We’ll protect him till you’re on your feet, I promise. Arthur has already agreed that when Lord Alvor is banished, Gareth will stay, as squire of the round table. He won’t have to be afraid anymore.” 

Gwaine nodded. “My thanks, he didn’t deserve to be put through that hell Alvor put him through. He’s a good lad, with a good heart.” 

Arthur smiled. “Gwen filled me in on what happened in the smithy, and what they found. Leon and Percival overheard him talking to you while you were still unconscious. Leon, Gareth and Percival will be going on border patrol along Essetir’s border, if Gaius says his arm’s healed enough.” 

Gwaine nodded, and gently put his forehead against Gareth’s. “I heard everything. It was like I was in a dream, but I heard it. His heart's cry, his desire to not be left with Alvor. His fear, it spoke to me as much as your guys' words of encouragement. As well as things you dare not tell the others. Your pleas for me to wake up. I heard it all.” Percival saw Gwaine’s smirk directed at them. 

“At least you're awake now,” Merlin chuckled as Gwaine reluctantly let Gareth go. Gareth nervously offered his arm for inspection. 

Gaius nodded after inspecting it. “It’s healing nicely. As long as you keep it covered, a nice patrol should be fine. It’ll also keep you away from Alvor while we're dealing with him.” 

Gwaine nodded as motioned for Percival to help him lay back down after reluctantly letting go of Gareth. “Keep him safe for me. I hope you guys don’t mind, I’m going to take a bit of a nap. Maybe dream of a cheese that tastes like apple pie again.”

They all chuckled at that as Percival gently did so, relieved that Gwaine had finally woken up. Once he’d cleared Gareth to go with them, he and Leon went to the armory where Leon opened an old wardrobe and pulled something out. “I never thought Camelot would have squires again,” he said quietly. 

Percival watched as he held some very light armor up to Gareth. “See if this will fit,” he said softly. 

Gareth did so, finding that it actually fit him quite well. “It… It’s almost like it was made for me,” he said quietly. 

Leon smiled gently. “It was once mine when I was your age. When Arthur started knighting commoners, I thought that there wouldn't be any more squires. Then you came along. I knew I couldn't let that go to waste.” 

Gareth looked embarrassed at that. “Why me though. Why not give it to your kid?”

Leon blushed slightly. “Don't have one yet. Maybe one day, but at the moment, it's yours ‘til you outgrow it.” 

“My thanks,” Gareth said softly and Percival smiled gently. 

“I never figured you’d have ever been that small in your teens, Leon.You must have hit your growth spurt later on,” Percival teased.

Gareth stared at that, watching Leon warily and Leon just laughed. “I’d be more surprised you were ever anywhere near that size after eight.” 

Percival grinned and Gareth cleared his throat. “Is this… normal between the knights, or just something you guys do?” he asked nervously. 

Percival and Leon looked at him, a bit confused. “If you mean us joking around like this, some knights do it more than others. It depends on who they’re with at the time. Why do you ask?” Leon said gently. 

“Can you… no, you’ll think it’s silly and a waste of time.” Gareth looked away stubbornly. 

“If you want to learn to do it without going too far, we can teach you,” Leon offered gently. “And it’s not a waste of time. It’s what you do with friends in order to strengthen your bond with them.” 

Percival felt Gareth’s eyes land on him at that and nodded. “Don’t you have friends?”

Gareth shook his head. “I was… never really allowed to talk to anyone outside of training and doing tasks for Alvor,” he admitted softly, looking away. “The one time I did, my dad made the boy disappear. That was about seven or eight years ago.” 

Percival felt an anger build up in him at that. He wasn’t the most talkative person, or friendly. He knew he could scare people, children especially; but to see Gareth like that, so afraid to form bonds because of how he’d been treated in the past. For the young teen to be forced to think that it was a waste of time due to the actions of one who should have been his parent and his protector, it angered him and broke his heart. He looked at Leon and knew from his eyes, he felt the same. 

“You don’t have to worry about that anymore. Not after today,” Leon soothed. “We will be here to guide you. As long as we’re with you, you don’t have to be afraid anymore.” 

Gareth hesitated, then nodded. “Okay.” He followed him and Percival out and toward the stables as the sun started to rise in the horizon.

Percival watched as Gareth and Leon slept soundly by the fire they’d made. Gareth had fallen asleep while he and Leon had decided who would take first watch. Percival smiled gently, watching him. They'd been on patrol for three days, watching for any sign of Cenred's men. Thankfully there hadn't been any and they'd instead used the time to bond with each other, and Gareth was starting to lower his guard around them a bit more. 

Percival heard something snap in the woods nearby and was instantly on the alert, facing the sound, sword drawn. He saw from the way Leon was getting up that he hadn't quite fallen asleep yet and had heard it too, detaching his cape and putting it over Gareth in an attempt to hide the sleeping teen from immediate view. 

Percival listened intently, whoever it was, was smaller than Gareth, and was running at them fast. He stepped back and slammed his sword back in his sheath before using the sheath to stop a long dagger wielded like a sword by a boy who couldn't be more than ten or eleven years of age. He took a good look at the boy as he continued to block but not strike out, fearful of hurting him. He was dressed like the people of Essetir. But fought with a fierceness he'd never seen in one so young. He looked over at Leon and saw him watching this, amazed but still listening for more as Gareth started to wake. 

Percival saw Leon stiffen after a few more minutes. “Gareth, up!” Leon shouted as he dodged a crossbow bolt. 

Gareth shot up out from under the cloak at that and the sound of hooves coming towards them reached their ears. Percival noticed as well and shoved the boy back with only a fraction of his strength, causing the boy to stumble backwards and almost fall. 

Percival and Leon instantly put Gareth behind them and started backing up towards their own horses when the sound of several crossbows firing rang out. Leon yelled in pain as two hit his sword arm and shoulder, Gareth let out a cry as one grazed his burned arm and Percival flinched as the last came close to his cheek.

Their enemies rode into view at that and Percival tensed, recognizing Cenred as one of them, and the look on Leon's face told Percival that he recognized him too as the boy tried to attack them again and Percival blocked it, not wanting to hurt one so young as Cenred and his men dismounted and Cenred drew his swords as he approached. 

“Erik, enough,” Cenred said sharply and the boy halted his attack as the men surrounded Percival, Leon, and Gareth. The boy looked crestfallen at Cenred's sharp tone, but obeyed. Percival noticed that Cenred’s attention was more on the boy than him as he passed him and looked the boy over before redirecting his attention back to the knights. “Just three intruders, the last time there were far more.”

Percival saw Leon flinch at that and knew that they were in a very bad situation. He shot a pitying look at Gareth, seeing he was trembling, hand on his dagger. He also saw that Leon had his sword drawn but using his non-dominant hand to wield it. He jerked his head towards Leon and Gareth before charging towards Cenred. 

Cenred startled and quickly drew his twin blades as his men went after Percival, allowing the other two to slip away. 

Gareth stopped, looking back towards where they'd left Percival. Leon frowned, clearly torn between running and going back. Gareth sighed softly, “I don't like leaving him. It doesn't feel right.”

Leon sighed. “Neither do I, but with my sword arm the way it is.” He put a hand on one of the bolts. “And if we just pull them out, there’s a chance I could bleed to death before reaching where we need to. Percival knows what he’s doing, and we promised Gwaine before we left. We promised him that we’d bring you back alive, no matter what. If we stay, they will kill us, and I have no doubt, and they’ll go for you first.” He pulled himself up onto his horse, pain and reluctance plain on his face. 

Gareth shot a look back then sighed, before mounting. “It just…” 

“I know it feels wrong, but sometimes, sometimes there is no other choice,” Leon said, not looking at Gareth, and Gareth thought he saw something wet slide down Leon’s face. “We must go, and unlike on the way here, we’re not stopping. With any luck, Arthur has another patrol out and we can fill them in and they can get to him in time,” Leon said quietly. 

Gareth nodded and he and Leon took off, knowing time was of the essence. 

[merlin-canon-divergence-stories]

Shield of Camelot

Chapter 4 Lancelot and 4.5 an overheard conversation

Chapter 4: Lancelot and 4.5: an overheard conversation

(this one is a bit of a flashback in the form of a dream.)

Percival blinked as Merlin and Gaius came to him as he tended to his weapons and stood to greet them. “Sit, Percival. Merlin has a request,” Gaius said firmly. 

Percival nodded and sat, curious about what Merlin had to say. “Arthur wants Gaius and I to take care of Lancelot’s burial, and I was wondering if you’d be willing to help,” Merlin said quietly. 

Percival swallowed hard at that, watching Merlin’s eyes. He couldn’t deny that there were tears in his friend’s eyes. He had taken everything especially hard, and to have lost Lancelot twice had been hard on the knights as well as Merlin. “I’ll do whatever you need me to,” he said softly. 

Merlin nodded. “Meet me at the lake two hours before sunset. You know the place.” 

Percival nodded. “Will the others be there too?”

Merlin shook his head. “I’m afraid not. There’s something I have to check, and the fewer who see it, the better.” 

Percival had to admit, he was perplexed at that, but decided that it was probably best not to pry, and whatever Merlin had to do, was something that he trusted Percival with. Percival suspected that Merlin and Lancelot had feelings for each other, but he wasn’t going to speculate or judge because of it.

“Oh, and Percival,” Merlin said, snapping him out of his thoughts and Percival looked at Merlin. “Dress plain and see if a commoner will lend you a horse. Not a knight's horse, but a commoner’s horse,” he added calmly. 

This confused Percival even more but before he could ask anything, Gaius and Merlin left. Percival shrugged but continued to work on ensuring his sword was sharp, just in case he needed it. 

Percival joined Merlin at the lake and saw that Lancelot had already been placed in the boat, yellow and white flowers lay around his body and Percival took note of how peaceful Lancelot looked. He did not look anything like what Percival was used to dead bodies looking like. He looked far more peaceful than expected, almost like he was asleep. Percival felt a lump form in his throat and chest when seeing him like that and he heard Merlin nearby. “Needed a witness?” he asked plainly. 

“Yes and no. I still need to check something. What I’m about to do, you can’t tell anyone,” Merlin said softly.

Percival nodded. “I will not judge.” He said quietly, taking note of how nervous and scared Merlin seemed to be.

Merlin seemed relieved as he leaned over Lancelot, staring at his face before putting a hand on his forehead. Merlin then spoke. “Ivathsne Nidthisne tin tregarden sole.” Percival swore Merlin’s eyes flashed golden afterwards and stared, wondering if he was dreaming. He and Merlin both startled slightly as Lancelot suddenly inhaled and Percival stared down at Lancelot, whose head moved to look at Merlin and his eyes were open. 

“Merlin, thank you,” he heard Lancelot whisper before Lancelot closed his eyes and became still again, though Percival could tell he was still breathing, though it seemed weak and ragged and saw Merlin sigh in relief. 

“Not what I expected, but I won’t tell,” Percival said, heart thudding at the revelation that Merlin had magic. He knew he couldn’t tell anyone. Arthur would have to kill Merlin, and that would destroy Arthur, as well as the unity amongst the knights. 

Merlin nodded. “I made a decoy using the body of a bandit that tried to attack me on the way here, but I wasn’t sure this would work. I need another favor.” 

Percival nodded, having a feeling he knew what it was, and that it still had to do with Lancelot. He then gave Merlin a look, did Merlin really kill someone who attacked him. He shook his head as Merlin continued to talk.

“Take him out of Camelot, Caerlon’s border is the closest. Find a healer there and tell them that he’s ill and needs care. Leave this on him to read once he’s better. It will tell him that I will let him know when it is safe to return. When Arthur is no longer so hurt by what happened while he was under Morgana’s spell that he wants to kill him. I’ll take care of everything else. No one but us will know what happened here.”

Percival nodded, gently picking up the unconscious Lancelot and mounting the horse he borrowed, knowing time was of the essence with this. That Merlin’s spell had freed Lancelot and brought him back to them once again, but whatever was done to him may still be the death of him. He rode as fast as he was willing to have the horse go while carrying a passenger straight for the border.

It was night time by the time he reached the border and passed it, slowing the horse into a normal pace till he found a spot to set up camp and dismounted, gently laying Lancelot on the ground. The man hadn’t stirred at all and Percival checked to see if he had a pulse. He swallowed hard at feeling how weak it actually was and noticed that Lancelot’s breathing was a lot weaker as well. “Hang in there Lancelot. Don’t let Merlin’s effort be wasted,” he whispered as he wrapped him in an old blanket he’d brought with him. 

He held Lancelot close, holding Lancelot’s head over his heart, hoping that the steady rhythm would help him somehow and found that he himself couldn’t sleep. His mind was plagued with thoughts of the events that day. Merlin was a sorcerer, and had trusted him with his secret. He had to admit that something about that made sense, especially with the Lamia incident. Merlin’s magic must have protected him from her influence. Percival flinched; he had never apologized for his behavior towards Merlin during that. Whether it was pride or not, he didn’t know. Merlin had never demanded it either. 

Percival sighed, then heard a noise. He focused and listened intently, trying to gauge whether it was a threat or not, before realizing that it was laughter, and it was close. He looked at the borrowed horse and saw that it was asleep, worn out from the hard ride. He held Lancelot close as he stood up and walked towards the sound and saw a light shining through the trees. He could tell it was a building, but whether or not it was an inn or a tavern, he couldn’t tell.

He walked towards it quickly, holding Lancelot close and hearing him start to gasp. “Hang in there,” Percival whispered and broke into a run, slamming the door open as he got there. “Help us, please,” he called, flinching at the sound. 

He saw several men jump up, hands on weapons, before they laid eyes on Lancelot, who was significantly paler than he had been when they’d left the lake. One, a well dressed young man stood. “I wasn’t expected to have to work today, but it seems like I’m needed. Bring him upstairs, quickly.”

Percival nodded, relieved and followed. The man motioned for him to lay Lancelot on the bed, and Percival did so quickly. The man frowned after looking him over. “He’s got a nasty curse placed on him. A curse of death. Had you gotten here even ten minutes later, there would have been nothing I could do,” the man said as he poured something in Lancelot’s mouth and made him swallow by rubbing his throat gently. 

Percival nodded. “He can’t return home, not yet,” he said softly.

The man eyed him. “You have to return though.”

Percival flinched, wondering if the man knew of his mission and how. “I do,” he agreed warily. “I will leave this here for him when he wakes. This is for you.” He handed the man a small sack of coins, before leaving the note near the bed. 

The man weighed it in his hands before nodding, satisfied. “Very well, I'll make sure the other witnesses understand that you at least, were never here. Safe travels.” He settled to watch over Lancelot as Percival forced himself to leave and return to his camp, wondering if he was doing the right thing. 

Percival jolted awake covered in sweat and went over to his window, opening it and letting the cooler night air in. He couldn’t help but wonder why that memory came back as a dream now of all times. He shook his head, taking note that it was quite close to sunrise, so there’d be no point in trying to fall back asleep. He threw his clothes on and went into the hall, figuring he had time to visit Gaius’s chambers and see how Gwaine was doing.

He frowned. He'd been trying to avoid visiting while Gareth was there. Something about the younger knight felt off, and he seemed so scared of everyone; but Gareth’s arm still needed care as the burn had been quite severe, and Gareth didn’t seem to want to leave. Alvor had tried to force Gareth to leave at one point, but Arthur had been there and told Alvor that Gareth would stay there until Gaius said it was okay. 

Alvor hadn’t liked that, but wisely chose not to argue, instead shooting a nasty look at Arthur and the other knights before storming away, leaving behind a very withdrawn Gareth. Percival frowned, recalling that Gareth seemed to have almost shut down entirely for the rest of the day until Gaius had done something to calm him and let him tend to him. He'd still been rather quiet and seemed to sneer when anyone not Gaius approached or tried to talk to him. 

As he passed Gaius’s place he saw the window was open and Leon was standing there. Leon motioned for him to keep quiet and motioned him over. Percival came over and listened. He heard a voice talking, and recognized it as Gareth’s. It sounded almost like he was talking to himself, and he realized that Gareth was talking to Gwaine even though he was unconscious. “We’re half brothers, you know,” he heard Gareth say. “My mom and your mom are the same. My fa… Sir Alvor, he found her one day and brought her home. She… She died wondering what had happened to you. If you were still alive, you know. She never gave up hope you’d one day find her again. Told me stories of the brave big brother I might never get to meet. Seeing you now, I can’t stand it. You look so much like her when she got ill. Please, you’ve got to wake up. I need you now more than ever.”

There was a long pause. “What happened to my arm was no accident. My father hates Arthur’s round table knights. Hates that Arthur’s so close with them. He sees them as not worth Arthur’s time. He was aiming for Elyan to be either badly hurt, or killed, and sabotaged the thing that held the vat. Guinevere wasn’t supposed to be there and I wasn’t supposed to intervene. When I saw it fall towards her, I knew I couldn’t let it happen. I don’t know why, perhaps it’s because she’s my queen. Father’s probably ready to kill me, and if I’m overheard talking about it...” Gareth got quiet again. 

“Damn it, I’m such a coward. I can’t even stand up to him. Can’t even tell the king himself that I was forced to lie about my age. Can’t even tell them that I’m not even sixteen yet.” Percival heard Gareth sob out and he and Leon exchanged glances at that. Everything was starting to make sense about Gareth now. “And I know if I’m found out, I'm as good as dead. My knighthood will be stripped of me, and my father told me that he’d kill me himself if I was ever caught. If he’s caught it’ll be both of us, and he’ll kill me for sure. Probably leave me in a ditch like he’s always threatened. I just… I wish you were awake. I’m certain you’d protect me, and guide me. Then again, maybe it’s best you’re not, as I don’t know if you’d believe me. Or if you’d just consider me a bastard because of who my father is. I guess what I’m most scared of is being alone. Being thrown away and seen as useless as I’ve always been told I am.” Gareth’s voice cracked. Percival felt his heart break at Gareth’s tone. He sounded so lost, so broken. And for him to be as young as he said, he shouldn’t have been hurt, he should have been protected, instead of being used by Alvor. 

There was the sound of a bedroom door opening at that and the sound of someone scrambling to get back in bed. Leon and Percival walked away, hoping they hadn’t been noticed before stopping a good ways away. “I’m going to go report everything to Arthur. Stay with Gareth and Gwaine. Don’t give away you heard anything yet. I hope Arthur will let Gareth stay as a squire of the round table. So we all can teach him that he’s got nothing to be afraid of, not anymore,” Leon said calmly, though Percival could see the anger in his eyes at the injustice that Gareth had to suffer through for so long.

Percival nodded, knowing it would be best to let Leon deal with the situation with Alvor and Arthur. “Gladly, kid’s been through enough.” 

Leon nodded and walked towards the palace and Percival walked to Gaius’s door and went in, seeing that Gareth was pretending to sleep and hide the fact he’d just poured everything out on an unconscious man. Percival put his hand gently on Gareth’s head, feeling the boy tense underneath his touch and felt Merlin’s stare. He mouthed “later” at Merlin and saw him nod and smile gently, telling him wordlessly that he'd also heard everything.

[merlin-canon-divergence-stories]

Shield of Camelot

Chapter 3 Elyan

Percival sighed as he sat next to Gwaine’s bed. There’d been little change while they’d been gone. When Arthur and Merlin came in to visit after they got back, it seemed like Gwaine had stirred slightly, but had gone rigid and started to thrash around. Gaius had ordered them to hold him to make sure he didn’t hurt himself and found he had formed a fever since the last time he’d checked a few hours before. Since then Gwaine had been still, only the painfully slow movements of his chest giving away that he was still alive. That had been four days ago, and Percival could tell that he wasn’t the only one anxious about Gwaine. Merlin, Leon, Arthur, and occasionally Elyan would rotate their vigil and care of their friend so each could rest and let Gaius work on other patients when needed. 

Gareth had been careful to keep his distance since they’d come back. He’d seemed more distant lately, and Percival still remembered the way he flinched when he’d went to put his hand to his forehead at the lake. It was like the younger knight thought he was going to hit him. Percival shook his head and looked at Gwaine, and put a hand to his head, pleased that the cold cloths seemed to have brought the temperature down a bit. “You’ve got to wake up soon. Please,” he said quietly. He heard the door open and shut and looked up.

Merlin nodded at him. “Anything?” he asked and Percival frowned. 

“His temperature’s a good bit lower, but still warm,” he said, meeting Merlin’s eyes. 

“Any more thrashing?” Merlin asked. 

“None.” Percival answered. 

Merlin nodded, looking relieved. “Elyan asked if you’d be up for helping him in the smithy a little bit before resting. Said he needed help with something.” 

Percival nodded, it wasn’t often that Elyan asked for help with anything, let alone anything in the smithy. He nodded farewell to Merlin before walking out, knowing Gwaine was in good hands with Merlin. 

He soon entered the smithy and found Gareth and Elyan arguing about something with Gwen watching them. She eyed him and nodded to the two, giving a silent order for him to do something. He nodded and approached them. “What’s going on?” he asked, and noticed Gareth seemed to flinch at his tone but turned his full attention towards him. 

“Mind your own business,” Gareth growled, whirling on him. 

Elyan looked relieved. “Thanks for coming, Percival. Sir Alvor wants me to fit him for some new armor, but he won’t let me touch him to measure him.” 

“I see, and you need me to hold him still?” Percival asked curiously.

“See if you can convince him first. Get him to calm down and see we’re not wanting to hurt him,” Elyan said, seeing Gareth had reached for his dagger, ready to fight. 

Percival nodded, taking notice as well. He recognized it as a fear response, and possibly a survival response as well. He had to be careful, and he had to handle this as delicately as possible, to avoid further panic from the younger knight. “We only want to measure you,” he said softly.

Gareth promptly pointed his dagger at him, trying to hide his trembling. “You’ll not touch me,” he snarled, backing away, keeping his eyes on both of them.

Percival held up his hands, showing that he wasn’t armed as he and Elyan took a step back, to show that they weren’t a threat, and only wanted to get this over with as quickly as possible. Elyan spoke next. “Lord Alvor only wants us to make you new armor, and we can’t do that, if we don’t know your exact measurements.” 

Percival saw Gareth’s eyes narrow, as he tried to maneuver around them, likely intending to bolt as soon as he could. “Gareth, we’re not going to hurt you,” he said softly. 

The three kept their eyes locked, as they circled, Elyan and Percival, trying to calm Gareth down, and Gareth firmly avoiding them and keeping his dagger on them. He looked past them after a few minutes of them circling each other. He sheathed his dagger and bolted for Guinevere as Percival and Elyan heard a loud snap and whirled around. They saw one of the smaller vats of molten metal start to fall towards Guinevere and ran towards her as well. 

Gareth got to her first and tackled her, shielding her as the vat hit the ground and splattered, missing her but landing on his shirt sleeve, setting it on fire. 

Gareth yelled out in pain and Percival flinched, knowing that it had to have hurt as Elyan rolled Gareth to put it out and yelled at Percival to grab the rope that was attached to a giant bucket of water above the smithy. Percival did and pulled with all his strength, sighing in relief as it tipped over and doused them all as well as the fire that was spreading from the molten metal, cooling it to where it started to solidify.

 Elyan carefully tore the sleeve off Gareth's arm and cursed as Percival helped Guinevere up. “Are you all right, my lady?” he asked, worried for his queen. 

She nodded. “Just shaken. If Gareth hadn’t noticed it starting to fall...” she shivered. 

“I’m glad he did.” Elyan dabbed at the burned flesh on Gareth’s arm. The younger knight whimpered before blacking out from the pain. “Percival, can you get him to Gaius’s?” he asked, worried.

Percival nodded and picked up Gareth. “Will you need help cleaning up the mess from what happened?” 

Elyan shook his head. “I’m planning on investigating what happened before I do any cleaning. Thankfully today was a slow day, but if that had happened during a busier day or a tournament week...” Percival nodded, understanding exactly what Elyan meant before heading back towards Gaius’s. He couldn’t help but look down at Gareth. He looked even younger than normal, passed out like this. He looked even younger than Mordred had as well, almost like he was still in his early teens. 

Percival shook his head, as he doubted he would have been allowed to be knighted if he was that young. Also, with how scared he’d been of being touched, both at the lake and in the smithy, something else was going on. If Gareth wasn’t going to be open about it, Percival would take it up with Arthur. As much as Gareth acted like a jerk most days, Percival couldn’t help but feel a bit protective of him when he looked like this. He shivered, remembering the cry of pain Gareth had let out, knowing Guinevere could have easily been killed. 

He shook his head to clear the thoughts that plagued him as he reached the door to Gaius’s place. He opened it and heard Merlin talking to Gwaine, even though Gwaine was still unconscious. “Where’s Gaius?” he asked, scanning the room. 

Merlin startled slightly and was about to say something when his eyes fell on Gareth’s arm. “What happened?” he asked, instantly alarmed. He nodded to one of the other beds there while getting some water. 

“A vat of molten metal fell. Elyan is investigating it,” Percival said calmly, laying Gareth down.

Merlin nodded, gently cleaning the spot, flinching at how bad the burn was. “He went to visit Arthur. Said he had to check on something. Tell him and Arthur what happened. I’ll hold things down here.” 

Percival nodded. “Just know, when he wakes up, he’s extremely against touch.” 

Merlin nodded and continued to tend to Gareth as Percival walked out and towards the castle, knowing he had to deliver the message to Arthur as well as tell Gaius of his new patient and what to expect. 

[merlin-canon-divergence-stories]

Shield of Camelot

Chapter 2 Arthur and Merlin

Percival sighed where he sat next to the bed Gwaine laid on. There hadn't really been much of a change in his friend's condition. Gaius had gotten his breathing more notable, but it was still very weak and ragged. If someone hadn't been looking for it, they'd never notice it. “They're not back yet.” He said quietly before continuing, not hearing the door open. “And I can't help but feel like it's my fault. Like I made the wrong decision.” 

“You didn't, you made an impossible one. One where someone would have died in either circumstance.” He heard and startled slightly as he saw Gaius standing behind him with two plates of food. Gaius offered him one. “Eat, you need it, and no arguments.”

Percival nodded and did so as the door opened and he heard footsteps come in and nodded silently as Leon came in. 

“How is he?” Leon asked, looking at where Gwaine lay. 

“He seems to be doing a small bit better, but there's still a high chance that he'll never wake up. A nethair's venom is quite dangerous and painful, and he was bitten multiple times.” Gaius said softly and Percival felt a twinge of both guilt and sympathy for Gwaine. 

He saw Leon flinch slightly at that, and their eyes met as Leon nodded towards him. “Are you willing to come with me and Sir Gareth?” He asked gently. 

Gaius gave Leon one of his looks at the mention of the young noble-born Knight that Leon was trying to get acquainted with what was left of the round table knights, hoping to get him to see that nobility wasn't just birth. 

“If you don't want to join us in heading to Avalon to see if Merlin was successful or not, no one will think less of you for it.” Leon continued softly. 

Percival tensed but nodded. “I'll go.” 

Leon nodded. “I should let you know that Sir Gareth isn't the most pleasant. In truth, he's much more like Uther's knights were. However, he is loyal and young enough that we may be able to get him to see that nobility isn't just birth. I'm hoping this will help him with that.” 

Percival nodded and looked at Gaius. “Will, Gwaine be alright if I leave?” 

“Tch, if he's not strong enough to pull through, then maybe a commoner like him should have never been knighted.” They heard a cold voice from outside.

“Not now Gareth.” Leon said going over to the window and slamming it shut before either Percival or Gaius could react to his words.

They heard a loud “Hey!” from outside at that.

Leon leaned his back against the wooden shutter and looked at Percival. “Now that you know what to expect from him, are you certain you still want to come with us?” 

Percival thought for a minute and looked back at where Gwaine was. “Arthur is my king. Merlin is my friend. I have to go; I've left them alone for far too long. If Gwaine were awake, he'd tell me to go.”

Gaius nodded. “I can handle things here. If there's any change, I'll have a messenger waiting for you at the gates upon your return.” 

Percival nodded and stood, walking towards the door. Leon joined him, both men silent as they gave one last look at Gwaine before leaving. 

After a few days riding they found tracks and knew they were getting close to Avalon. “I still don't understand why our king was left with just a manservant, a commoner,” Gareth said coldly. “From what I've heard this Merlin can't even fight.” They continued to walk, the ground far too rocky for their horses. 

Percival shot a glare at the younger knight while Leon walked between the two and Gareth tripped with a yell, then scooted away from what appeared to be a pile of clothes with a terrified look on his face.

Leon frowned and went over and used a large stick on the ground to inspect it. “Yet it seems he dealt with Morgana himself.” Percival felt a touch of pride and relief at that, then heard a yell from the direction they were heading. He could tell the others heard it too and saw a slight smile start to creep onto Leon's face. 

“I'd know that voice anywhere.” Leon said before breaking out in a sprint in the direction the yell came from.

Percival nodded and followed, a sense of relief and warmth deep in his chest, and doing his best not to smirk as he heard Gareth struggling to catch up behind them, clearly not wanting to be anywhere near the witches body. 

As they broke out of the clearing they couldn't help but smile at the sight. Arthur was in the boat yelling to Merlin to bring him back. Merlin was doing something and Percival's eyes widened as he realized that Merlin was using his magic where Arthur and Leon could see. He watched their reactions carefully. Arthur seemed to be calm and not angry, which gave off that at some point he'd found out. Percival then looked at Leon and found his reaction unreadable. 

He tensed slightly as he heard Gareth behind them and heard him yell “Sorcer…” then a thud and turned. He sighed in relief as he hadn't even registered that Leon had moved in those few seconds and had hit Gareth hard enough to knock him out but not enough to hurt him. He looked back at Arthur and Merlin and saw that they were looking at them, both looking nervous and relieved at the same time.

Leon looked at Merlin. “I'm going back to where we left the horses for some rope, see how close you can get him to us. I won't be long. Percival, if Gareth starts to wake, restrain him. We can discuss everything after Arthur's safely on land.” 

They nodded as Merlin did his best to force the boat closer to where Percival was and Percival kept a close eye on Gareth in case he started to move. Leon soon rejoined him and he noticed Leon seemed to be a bit out of breath. He shrugged, figuring he sprinted both ways and readied the rope and looked at Arthur. 

“I'm ready.” Arthur said calmly. 

Percival nodded and threw  the one end of the rope while holding on to the other. Arthur caught it with ease and Percival and Leon pulled him to shore and helped Arthur out. Merlin came over to them looking relieved, especially at Leon. 

Arthur clears his throat and looks at the two knights, trying to look angry and disappointed. “You two knew?” 

Percival swallowed hard at that. “I did, but I didn't want to see a friend forced to kill another friend,” he explained softly.

Arthur's gaze softened slightly before hardening again and turning towards Leon. “I had my suspicions, just never saw any confirmation until now,” Leon said calmly, holding his gaze. 

Arthur groaned slightly. “Fine, but not a word until I find a way to lift the ban and change the law. Until then, make sure Merlin's more careful. Also, make sure Gareth stays quiet, convince him he ate something bad and hallucinated or something.” 

Gareth groaned as he started to come to. Leon winked at the others before kneeling beside Gareth and putting a hand to his forehead like he was checking for a fever. “Get off me,” Gareth growled, opening his eyes and smacking his hand away with a glare.

Leon smiled gently at that. “Easy Gareth, when you tripped over Morgana’s body, it discharged whatever magical energy was left and had you seeing things. We had to knock you out for your own protection,” Leon said plainly, face giving nothing away. 

“I know what I saw!!!” Gareth blurted out angrily, then yelped as his legs gave out suddenly. Percival caught him before he could look at Merlin and mimicked Leon’s feigned worry by putting a hand to his forehead, noticing Gareth flinch at the raised hand with a frown. “You’re burning up.”

Gareth shoved him away. “I’m fine, probably a side effect of being with you two for three days,” he snarled angrily before turning to Arthur and Merlin. He saw Arthur staying in front of Merlin looking concerned as well. “Your highness.” he said politely.

“If they said that magic from Morgana discharged into you, then I believe it. I don’t know what you saw, but all Merlin was doing was trying to retrieve a rope he dropped when trying to throw it to me.” Arthur said, giving nothing away. 

Percival did his best not to give anything away as the younger knight slumped slightly in resignation at their king's words and started walking back to the horses. Leon followed, clearly not wanting to let him out of his sight, and Percival walked with Arthur and Merlin. 

“Well done Merlin and Percival. How long will he think he’s actually got a fever?” Arthur asked softly, and Percival felt a little bit embarrassed with the unexpected praise.

“Only a few hours, I only tripped him up a little bit. Hopefully he really believes the Morgana part,” Merlin whispered. 

Percival remained quiet as they passed where Morgana’s body had been left, flinching as they passed it and seeing both Leon and Gareth ahead of them reaching where they’d left the horses. Percival looked at Merlin, who seemed to notice something. 

“Is Gwaine not with you?” Merlin asked.

Percival sighed, he should have known Merlin would have asked. “He’s with Gaius.” He said plainly as they too reached the horses. He saw Arthur tense and Merlin slumped dejectedly and knew it would be better to tell them now than later. “Morgana used the Nethair multiple times on him.” 

Leon nodded, face grim. “Percival found him, and chose to bring him back instead of pursuing Morgana. Gwaine would have definitely died had he not. He was quite close to death as it was when Percival brought him to the gates, and he hadn’t yet woken when we left.” 

Merlin looked down at that and Arthur looked a bit miffed and Percival looked down. “Did I make the wrong decision?” he asked nervously. 

Both men looked at him, and Arthur shook his head. “There was no right or wrong decision Percival. I’m just upset that I let Morgana get away with so much, and take so much from all of us.”

Merlin nodded. “Gwaine, may not be the same even if he does wake. We should hurry back and check on him.” mounting one of the spare horses they’d brought and Arthur mounts the other as the three mount their horses and they start to head back in silence, knowing that talking would just elongate their journey. 

[merlin-canon-divergence-stories]

Shield of Camelot

Chapter 1: Gwaine

Percival stared down at the face of the man who had died in his arms. The face of his friend, stunned and horrified. He started to become overwhelmed by his emotions as he pushed his forehead against Gwaine's, feeling how cold it was quickly becoming. He knew he should ride after Morgana and finish what he started and save Merlin and Arthur.

He started to stand when he realized he was still holding onto Gwaine and looked at him again. His heart throbbed, knowing Gwaine had died believing he failed. Died doing the one thing he swore he'd never do. Percival stopped a sob that threatened to come out and knew the decision he had to make. He couldn't leave him. He had to take Gwaine's body back to Camelot. It meant having faith that Merlin could handle Morgana and keep Arthur alive on his own.

Percival hated the thought of leaving Merlin at Morgana's mercy, but the oath he swore had made the knights, the king, and everyone else equal. Breaking that he hated more. He shivered, remembering how broken Gwaine had looked as he died. How it seemed all strength, the very thing Gwaine had embodied, had left the smaller man as he convulsed in his last few seconds of life. The gasps he let out as he closed his eyes and leaned forward into Percival's hands. Percival knew he'd never forget or get over it.

He gently freed Gwaine's wrists from the ropes that bound him, flinching at how red and raw they were. Percival knew that Gwaine struggled greatly to try to get away from whatever happened to him for them to be that raw. He caught him as his body crumpled and realized just how much smaller Gwaine was than him. Percival swallowed hard at that, remembering how he'd always picked on Gwaine, claiming to be twice the smaller man's size. It was only now that he realized just how close to the truth that was.

He very gently picked Gwaine up, and blinked. He'd heard that people usually felt heavier when they died. Gwaine felt different. He felt light, almost weightless in Percival's arms. Percival instantly shook his head to focus himself. He couldn't be getting his hopes up. Not with everything that had happened. He solemnly carried Gwaine to where they'd left their horses and put Gwaine's body on his before mounting and riding back towards Camelot, fully intending to let Leon know of what had happened.

It was getting dark when he arrived at the gates and heard a sentry call out to him, demanding he identify himself. “I am Sir Percival, returning with Sir Gwaine, who is… who is…” Percival faltered on the words, he couldn't bring himself to say it. To say Gwaine was dead.

Percival couldn't help but jump slightly as the gate slammed open and Leon hurried out with several younger knights. “Where have you two…” Percival saw the question die on Leon's lips as his eyes, angry with worry, fell on Gwaine's body. He saw Leon freeze and all anger leave his eyes before Leon murmured “Gwaine, no.” The younger knights looked away at that and Leon shook his head to clear it.

“I'll take him, you must be exhausted.” Leon said, gently grabbing and pulling Gwaine's body off the horse. Both men noticed that his body was quite loose at that and Leon shot a look at Percival. “How long has he been dead?”

“Several hours. He shouldn't be this limp, I don't think.” Percival said quietly and saw Leon's frown deepen. “Leon?” as the older man carried Gawain's body after readjusting his hold.

“I'm taking him to Gaius. Get the horses to the stables, then join me there.” Leon said in a tone that told Percival that he'd take no arguments before turning his head slightly back towards Percival before speaking again. “Besides, he'll probably want to check you over as well.”

Percival swallowed hard at that. He'd hoped he would be able to avoid the old physician, but if that's where Leon was going to take Gwaine on what was likely false hope, he'd follow. He slowly dismounted and led the horses to the stables before heading to Gaius's.

The physician turned his head slightly as he entered, acknowledging him and nodding to the chair next to where Leon was sitting, watching anxiously as he examined Gwaine's body. It was quiet for a few minutes before Gaius spoke. “Leon says that you brought him believing him dead.”

Percival felt a strange thump in his chest at that. “I saw his life leave him, Gaius. I saw the light fade from his eyes as he closed them for the last time. I held his face in my hands as his last breaths escaped him. I… I.” Leon's hand landed firmly yet gently on Percival's shoulder, snapping him back to the present as Gaius shook his head.

“He's unconscious and as close to death as I've ever seen anyone be while still living. I do not know if I can bring him back from the brink, but I will do what I can. As for you… you've been through something traumatic. You too are injured, though not as badly.” Gaius said and Percival looked down at his wrists, having forgotten about the rope burn that marred his skin.

He reluctantly let Gaius tend to him while his heart beat in his chest. Gwaine was still alive, and if anyone could bring him back, it was Gaius, of that Percival had no doubt. He felt Leon continue to lend his support with his hand on his shoulder and tried not to show how exhausted he actually was until he fell asleep leaning on Leon, everything that had happened finally catching up to him.

Leon shot a concerned look at Gaius as he steadied Percival. “He's exhausted and the adrenaline’s worn off. He's probably been running on it since whatever happened happened. I don't think we'll be getting any answers tonight.” Gaius said gently. “Lay him on the spare bed; I'd like to watch and make sure nothing else is wrong with him.”

Leon nodded, gently doing so. “Send for me when he wakes. I must report this to the queen.” He said, heading for the door. Gaius nodded and returned to his work, hoping that everything would work out and that Merlin and Arthur had gotten to Avalon safely.

[merlin-canon-divergence-stories]

https://archiveofourown.org/users/Eyali/pseuds/Eyali

Is my ao3 account. My Shield of Camelot story is also featured on there