Chapter 7
The day went by and Merlin remained unconscious and unresponsive. Arthur didn't leave Gaius' chambers all day, sitting with him and Gwen deep into the evening, tending to Merlin in any way he could.
They spent the time mostly helping Gaius mix potions such as pain killers and anti-swelling ointments, stoking the fire, trying to keep Merlin as comfortable as possible, and talking in low voices.
Arthur began to feel uneasy about Merlin's continued lack of response, and when we voiced his concerns to Gaius, the old man unwillingly answered that he was feeling the same way.
It was a relief, therefore, when Merlin finally stirred, around supper time.
Everyone rushed to his bedside as he gave an almost inaudible moan and shifted on the bed.
"Merlin!" Arthur cried, and had to restrain himself with some difficultly from wrapping Merlin in his arms and hugging him.
"How are you feeling?" Gwen asked anxiously.
Merlin tried to clear his throat and grimaced, as though it was painful to engage the muscles. Arthur, Gaius and Gwen glanced sympathetically at each other. The dark bruise on Merlin's throat was bound to be sore.
Gaius grabbed a cup of water that was on the desk next to the bed and Arthur gently reached behind Merlin's shoulders and helped him sit up. Gaius pressed the rim of the cup to Merlin's pale lips and he tried to sip the cool liquid, but his throat spasmed and wouldn't cooperate, and he ended up coughing hoarsely until his eyes watered.
"Oh Merlin..." Gwen patted his back sympathetically.
Merlin heaved a great breath, trying to get enough air into his lunch. He was shaking.
"Slowly, Merlin," Gaius murmured as he held the cup once more, and this time Merlin managed to get down a few smalls gulps of water, although his face twisted in pain as he swallowed.
"Better?" Arthur asked.
Merlin nodded and then opened his mouth to speak, but no sound came out. Arthur glanced at Gaius to see if this was something to be worried about. Gaius was watching Merlin carefully.
"Merlin, can you try and tell us how you're feeling?" He asked, seriously.
Merlin cleared his throat, wincing. When he tried to speak again all that came out was a quiet choking sound.
Raising a trembling white hand to his throat he stared at Gaius, his face stricken.
Panic was evident in his eyes. Arthur saw his manservant's expression and looked quickly at Gaius.
"What is it, Gaius?" He demanded.
It was just as the physician had feared:
Merlin couldn't speak.
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