Merlin TV Universe, Darkling Woods

  Time: Year 2, Month 1, Day 1

  Current Celestial Points: 0

  Celestial Points Gathered (This Year): 0/1000

  Monthly Roll: 0/1

  ---

  Silk strands trembled beneath Amara's legs as she thought on the lack of Celestial Points. Her eight eyes shifted between different chambers of the web system, tracking the movements of her offspring. Some practiced aerial maneuvers with their Griffin-given wings, while others perfected their human disguises.

  Her pedipalps grazed a central thread, pulsing a coded command through the network. Adrian skittered in from a side tunnel moments later.

  "Find me one of your siblings. One who could kill me, but carries the least potential." Eight legs spread wide as she anchored herself more securely. "Bring them here."

  Adrian's front appendages wove signals through nearby strands, summoning several of the older offspring. They gathered in branching tunnels, exchanging rapid clicks and leg movements as they discussed her request.

  Web vibrations announced the arrival of a smaller Boar-gene offspring. Despite being the same age of some of the older offspring, he barely exceeded Amara in size. The spiderling's boar bristles lay flat against his abdomen. Amara would’ve killed him had she not been busy learning how to act human, but it seemed that there must’ve been some use for him…

  The chosen offspring positioned himself before her, legs steady on the silk. No fear showed in its movements, even as Amara's chelicerae flexed. The spider understood its purpose, accepting the role without resistance.

  Her stinger whipped forward, piercing the offspring's carapace between two segments. The paralytic venom spread rapidly through the spider's body, causing legs to stiffen and lock in place. The offspring remained motionless as Amara's mandibles clamped down on the junction between head and thorax.

  Ichor spilled across the silk as Amara's mandibles crushed through the carapace. She consumed her grandchild, breaking down each segment and absorbing the nutrients. The other offspring watched from nearby tunnels, legs spread wide to better sense vibrations through the web.

  No Celestial Points appeared. The sacrifice brought no power.

  Adrian edged nearer, sensing the agitation in her twitching limbs. "The offspring must be too close to your own nature, Great Mother. It seems we need prey that exists outside our bloodline."

  Amara’s mouthparts quivered, grinding the last shards of her grandson into pulp.

  The silk rippled slightly as one of her younger offspring - one born from Adrian's seed - stepped forward. Its left foreleg rose, tapping against a support strand. "The knights of Camelot would serve as worthy prey. Their combat training and steel weapons can pose a genuine threat to our kind, however small it may be."

  Web vibrations carried another of Adrian's children into the discussion. This one positioned itself on a parallel strand, legs spread wide for balance. "Direct assault on Camelot risks exposing our territory. The humans have left us alone because they believe these woods hold only common beasts and the Griffin. We should preserve that advantage." The spider's front legs wove through the air. "Other kingdoms lie within reach. Their knights would prove just as challenging."

  "Camelot's warriors are closest," countered the first offspring. Its chelicerae clicked rapidly as it gestured toward the northern tunnels. "Why expend energy traveling when prey exists nearby?"

  "Because survival demands patience," replied the second. "Our numbers grow. Our skills improve. Why risk everything for quick satisfaction?"

  More of Adrian's children joined the debate, their legs sending vibrations through the web. Some supported immediate action, others advocated caution. Web vibrations intensified as the discussion grew heated.

  A massive form dropped from an upper chamber - one of the original boar-gene offspring. Its bristled legs scraped against silk as it landed. "Both paths hold merit," it clicked, commanding attention through sheer size. "But consider this - only those bearing human disguises should hunt knights, regardless of location. Otherwise the humans will discover us sooner or later."

  The younger offspring fell silent, their legs stilling as they processed this logic. Even those who had argued for immediate action couldn't deny the wisdom. Their inherited intelligence recognized the flaws in their initial planning.

  Amara’s eight eyes stared at Adrian. Some of the offspring born from her breeding sessions with Adrian possessed both the gift of human disguise and subspace pocket - perfect for what she needed. Her pedipalps brushed against nearby strands as she sent specific vibrations through the web.

  "The neighboring kingdom will serve as our testing ground," she clicked. "Those of you with human disguises and subspace pocket will infiltrate their settlements. Find the knights. Store their bodies in subspace. Return only when you've gathered enough prey to fill my hunger for power."

  Five offspring stepped forward, each bearing the gifts needed for this task. The first spread its legs wide, demonstrating the seamless shift into human form - a merchant's son with plain features. The second transformed into a serving girl, while the third became a wandering minstrel. The fourth and fifth took the shapes of pilgrims seeking shelter.

  Adrian's legs scraped against silk as he moved closer. "They should travel separately. Different roads, different times. The humans must not connect their disappearances."

  One of the disguised offspring nodded. "We'll need coin and clothing appropriate to our roles. The humans track such details."

  The boar-gene spider clicked agreement. "Take what you need from our stored supplies. The dead villagers provided plenty."

  Amara's chelicerae worked as she considered the next phase. Her own role required careful planning. "Adrian," she clicked. "You will accompany me to Camelot. We'll seek out magic users among them." Her legs shifted position. "The humans respond better to mated pairs. You'll pose as my husband."

  The chosen offspring departed through various tunnels, preparing for their assignments. Adrian remained, his eight eyes fixed on Amara. "If any magic users exist within Camelot, they will surely be hidden well. Maybe they even stay close to the castle to be hidden in plain sight. We'll need a reason to move in those circles."

  "Merchants," Amara clicked. "The castle requires silk. We'll bring samples of our finest weaving." Her spinnerets produced a strand of pure white silk. "The humans value such things."

  Adrian shifted his weight, legs making the silk web hum with subtle vibrations. “And merchants of our supposed wealth rarely travel alone, Great Mother.” His chelicerae clicked thoughtfully. “We would appear… vulnerable. An invitation to bandits, or even just unwanted scrutiny.” He tilted his horns, a gesture that mimicked human consideration. “Guards would be expected. A carriage, too, to transport our ‘wares’.”

  Amara considered this. Human society was riddled with these layers of expectation, these unspoken rules. Efficiency, directness – these were spider virtues. Humans, it seemed, valued complicated performances. Performances of wealth, of status, of safety.

  “We possess no carriages,” Amara stated. “No horses to pull them. No human clothing beyond what we took from the village. And certainly no human weapons for guards.”

  The silken chamber was silent, broken only by the faint rustling of spider legs on web. One of her younger offspring shifted, his hand-like appendages clasping each other. He was one of the more… resourceful of Adrian’s line. “Great Mother,” He finally clicked. “perhaps… opportunities will arise along the road to Camelot. Travelers heading in that direction may… carry what we require.”

  The meaning was clear, though unspoken in direct terms. Amara’s pedipalps twitched. Opportunities. Humans called it chance, coincidence, luck. Spiders called it… prey. And prey often carried useful things.

  “Then secure what we need,” Amara commanded. “Prepare an ambush. Focus on travelers heading towards Camelot. Bring back clothing, weapons, and a suitable carriage with horses.”

  Immediately, her offspring scrambled away through the tunnels, legs clicking and scraping on silk. Vibrations pulsed through the web as commands were relayed and tasks assigned.

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  Amara settled into the center of her web.

  Five days passed.

  The web carried news of success - multiple merchant caravans intercepted, guards and travelers consumed, goods collected. Clothing, weapons, coin, and two intact carriages now waited in the designated chamber. Even the horses lived, kept docile by regular doses of venom.

  Amara descended from her web, eight legs carrying her to where seven of her children waited. Each bore the gifts needed for this deception. The air filled with clicking sounds as spider forms melted away, replaced by human disguises.

  She reached into her subspace pocket, summoning out the Kitsune Wear. The magical clothing shifted and flowed around her human form, becoming a black dress that left little to imagination. The fabric clung to every curve, splits running high enough to fully reveal flesh with each step. No normal human would wear such a garment in public, but her gift ensured no one would question it.

  Adrian stood beside her in merchant's finery - rich fabric in dark colors, cut to suggest wealth without ostentation. The four males chosen as guards wore leather armor and carried short swords, while the female servant dressed in simple wool clothing.

  They moved to the carriages waiting outside the web system. The first wagon overflowed with silk goods - raw thread, finished cloth, and delicate garments. Boxes of coin lined the floor beneath the merchandise. The second carried supplies and additional goods.

  One guard took the reins of the lead carriage while two others and the servant girl climbed into the second. Adrian helped Amara into the first wagon before joining her inside.

  The carriages lurched forward as the horses started moving.

  After some time, they left the Darkling Woods behind. Amara sat across from Adrian, both maintaining their human forms as the wagon swayed. Through the window, she watched trees give way to open fields where peasants worked the land. The humans paused in their labor to stare at the passing carriages, some offering respectful nods to what they assumed were wealthy merchants.

  "Two days to Camelot," Adrian spoke in the human tongue. His voice carried the accent of northern traders. "I can hear movement in the woods ahead - likely a patrol of knights."

  Amara nodded. The knights would serve as a test of their disguises.

  The lead guard called out a warning. Red-cloaked knights approached on horseback. The carriages slowed to a stop as the patrol drew near.

  "State your business," the lead knight commanded. His horse pranced sideways, bringing him level with the wagon's window.

  Adrian leaned forward, adopting the eager manner of a merchant seeking profit. "We bring silks from the northern kingdoms. The finest threads and garments, meant for Camelot's nobility." He gestured to the boxes visible through the wagon's rear doors. "My wife and I hope to establish trade relations with your fair city."

  The knight's eyes lingered on Amara. She lowered her gaze, mimicking the modesty expected of merchant wives. The human male's pulse quickened - she could smell the change in his blood.

  "The roads are dangerous," the knight said. "Bandits prey on wealthy travelers. It might be best we escort you to the citadel?"

  "Most kind," Adrian replied. "But our guards are capable. We wouldn't wish to delay your patrol."

  The knight frowned, clearly wanting to spend more time near Amara. But duty won out. He nodded stiffly and signaled his men to move on. The patrol continued down the road, red cloaks vanishing into the distance.

  Once the knights were gone, Adrian's lips twitched. "They suspect nothing. The human disguise deceives even trained warriors."

  The carriages continued along the road toward Camelot. Fields and forests passed by, and peasants were working their land. Some used crude tools to break soil, while others guided oxen pulling wooden plows.

  Four hours passed before Camelot's white towers came into view. The guards at the city gate stopped them, checking their cargo and papers. Adrian presented documents taken from the dead merchants, speaking confidently about their northern silk trade.

  "The market square has space for merchants," one guard said, pointing down the main street. "But with your quality of goods, you'll want the merchant's quarter. Take the second right, follow it to the goldsmith's shop, then left."

  They followed his directions through crowded streets. People moved aside for the carriages, many stopping to stare at the fine vehicles. The merchant's quarter held several multi-story buildings with wide doorways for moving goods. Signs showed various trades - clothiers, jewelers, leather workers.

  Adrian spotted a building with a "Rooms to Let" sign. He dispatched Silara to ask about accommodations while the guards secured the carriages in a nearby stable yard. The servant girl returned quickly.

  "Master, the owner has two connected rooms on the second floor. Private entrance from the rear courtyard. Space below for storing goods." Silara kept her eyes lowered as she spoke. "Ten silver per month, paid in advance."

  Adrian nodded. "Acceptable. Have the guards bring up the personal trunks and secure the silk in the storage room." He helped Amara down from the carriage, supporting her arm as they walked to inspect the rooms.

  The accommodations were simple but clean. A main room for receiving customers, connected to a smaller bedroom. The furniture included a bed, table, chairs, and storage chests. Windows overlooked the busy street below.

  "We should visit the market," Adrian suggested once they'd settled in. "Learn who sells silk in Camelot, what prices they charge." He adjusted his merchant's coat. "And perhaps hear some gossip about the castle."

  Amara smoothed her black dress. "Of course, husband." She placed her hand on his arm, pressing close as they walked on the main street.

  The market was filled with vendors calling out their wares while customers haggled over prices. Adrian led them past stalls selling everything from fresh bread to copper pots. They paused at a clothier's shop, examining the quality of local textiles.

  "Northern silk from Mercia, you say?" The shop owner eyed their fine clothes. "I'd be interested in seeing your goods. The nobles always want something new and exotic."

  "We'll send our servant tomorrow morning once we're properly settled," Adrian replied.

  They continued through the market, stopping occasionally to chat with other merchants. Amara played her role perfectly - the beautiful wife who drew attention while remaining properly modest. She noticed how male gazes followed her, how women whispered behind their hands.

  Near sunset, they returned to their rooms. Silara had arranged their belongings and prepared a simple meal of bread, cheese, and wine. The guards took turns watching the storage room and patrolling the building's perimeter.

  "The castle servants will probably gossip about new merchants based on what we learned from the ‘talks’ we had," Adrian said quietly as they ate. "Especially wealthy ones with unusual goods. We should expect visitors soon - nobles seeking first choice of our silk."

  Amara sipped her wine. "We should visit the guild hall tomorrow. Establish ourselves properly with the merchant community."

  "Yes," Adrian reached for more bread. "The guild controls who can sell within the city walls. We'll need their approval, even if temporary." He glanced at Silara who stood ready nearby. "Make sure our documentation is in order for morning presentation."

  "Of course, master." Silara bowed and left to sort through their papers.

  The next morning brought clear skies and busy streets. Adrian and Amara walked arm in arm toward the merchant's guild hall, a three-story stone building near the market square. Inside, clerks scratched at parchments while merchants discussed business in hushed tones.

  "We seek to register our silk trade," Adrian told the head clerk, presenting their papers. "My wife and I represent several northern weaving houses."

  The clerk examined their documentation carefully. "Everything appears in order. The temporary merchant fee is thirty silver per month. You'll need three local merchants to vouch for your character before permanent status can be granted."

  Adrian counted out the coins while Amara stood demurely at his side.

  "The guild meets every Wednesday evening," the clerk added, stamping their papers. "You're welcome to attend. Many business arrangements start there."

  They spent the rest of the morning setting up their store room. Silara arranged silk samples on wooden frames while the guards positioned themselves discreetly near the entrance. By midday, the first curious customers arrived.

  A well-dressed woman strolled into the store room, followed by two others in expensive gowns. "I heard there were northern merchants with exotic silks," she announced, eyes scanning the displayed fabrics.

  Adrian stepped forward with a slight bow. "Welcome, my lady. I am Adrian of Mercia." He gestured to the silk samples. "Each piece hand-woven by master craftsmen."

  Amara walked over, her black dress drawing appreciative glances. "Perhaps the ladies would like some wine while they browse?" She glanced at Silara, who hurried to fetch cups and a bottle.

  "How thoughtful." The first woman smiled. "I am Lady Helena. This is Lady Margaret and Lady Anne." She accepted a cup from Silara.

  While Adrian discussed thread counts and weaving techniques with Lady Helena, Amara led the other women to a quieter corner. Lady Margaret ran her fingers over a bolt of deep blue silk.

  "Such fine quality," Lady Margaret whispered. "And you've arrived just in time for the peace talks. The other kings will bring their courts - all of them looking for new finery."

  Lady Anne nodded eagerly. "King Olaf's daughter is supposedly quite the beauty. She'll need proper gowns if she's to catch any royal eyes."

  "Speaking of royal matters," Lady Margaret lowered her voice. "I still can’t believe that King Uther was bewitched by that troll wearing Lady Catrina's face."

  "Magic users grow bolder every day," Lady Anne shuddered. "Thank heavens Prince Arthur discovered the truth.”

  Amara sipped her wine. "How frightening it must have been. Was anyone hurt when the troll was revealed?"

  "Several guards were injured," Lady Margaret replied. "And the creature destroyed part of the castle before they killed it. But what truly concerns me is how easily it infiltrated the court. It knew every detail of Lady Catrina's life."

  More customers entered the store room. Adrian smoothly excused himself from Lady Helena to greet them while Silara brought out additional wine cups.

  "Your husband seems very knowledgeable about silk," Lady Anne observed. "How long have you been in the trade?"

  "Three years," Amara replied. "We met when he came to purchase from my father's weaving house. He was so passionate about the craft, I couldn't help falling in love."

  The women exchanged knowing smiles. Lady Margaret touched Amara's arm. "Well, you must come to my solar tomorrow afternoon. Several ladies gather to sew and chat - you'd be most welcome."

  "I would be honored." Amara gave a small curtsy. "Shall I bring some silk samples?"

  "Oh yes," Lady Anne exclaimed. "And tell us more about northern fashions. We must look our best when the other kingdoms arrive."

  The afternoon passed in a steady stream of customers. Adrian wrote orders in a leather-bound ledger while Amara chatted with the noble ladies. By sunset, they had sold a quarter of their stock and received invitations to several social gatherings.

  While Silara cleared away the wine cups, Adrian wrapped an arm around Amara's waist. "A successful first day, my love." He pressed a kiss to her temple, maintaining their cover as an affectionate couple.

  "Indeed." Amara leaned into him, watching the last customers leave. "And tomorrow I'll learn more about the castle's inhabitants. These women notice everything."

  Adrian nodded slightly. "The guild meeting is tomorrow evening as well. Between your afternoon gathering and my business contacts, we should have a better picture of who's who in Camelot."