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Chapter Text

Merlin was lost, his mother told him this trip should only take a single day but he had gotten distracted. He had never been alone and able to play with his gifts freely, so he spent most of the day playing once he left the village borders. Merlin at least thought he should be close to his destination but he couldn’t tell, it was getting dark and he was scared.

Following a path through the forest Merlin stopped when he heard hoof beats coming up behind him. He didn’t want to be trampled so he ran and hid behind the nearest tree hopping the horses would continue past and ignore him, they didn’t. A shout rang out to stop, the leader of the group got off his horse and looked around.

Arthur was sure he saw something moving in the trees, it had looked like a child so he couldn’t just leave it. Calling out to the other knights he came to a stop and dismounted his steed. Going to the side of the path where there were rustling leaves he said “Who goes there?”

The stranger was trying to get him to reveal himself but Merlin was no fool, he was not getting captured by bandits today, so he stayed down.

“I can see you, boy” Panicked Merlin stood to run but the man grabbed his arm and pulled him out onto the path.

“Let me go, let me go!” Merlin struggled to get away but the grip just got tighter, he had no way to get out.

“I do not wish to harm you, boy” Arthur kept his grip tight. “I just want to know why you are travelling alone.” The child stopped struggling but showed no intention on speaking. Arthur watched as the boy turned to look at him with tears going down his face.

Merlin was terrified, this man clearly wanted to hurt him, his grip so tight he knew it would be bruised badly. “You’re hurting me,” He whispered tears dripping, he knew it would help little but tears always worked on grownups. They also seemed to work on bad people as the mans grip loosened slightly and he looked sorry.

He felt guilty for hurting the boy but still didn’t want him running. “What is your name, boy?”

Merlin didn’t know what to do, maybe if he answered the questions he could leave, he was just too tired now so he said quietly, “I’m Merlin, who are you?” He knew an answer was unlikely but still the man owed him his name at least.

“I am Prince Arthur of Camelot, Merlin.” A prince from Camelot, if he was really a prince then he couldn’t be bad princes were good and kind, so he had to help him, right? “Where are you headed then, Merlin”

“I am going to Camelot, but I got lost. Can you tell me the way?”

“I can do better than tell you the way, I can take you on my horse the rest of the way if you wish.” Merlin knew he shouldn’t just trust Arthur blindly but he just wanted to sleep now. So, he nodded his head and agreed with him. Arthur then released his arm and guided him to the side of a huge horse, gesturing to get on. Merlin had never ridden a horse before.

“I don’t know how.” He said it so quiet he wasn’t sure he was heard but suddenly, he was lifted onto the horse by Arthur, who then got on behind him stating he didn’t want him falling off. As the horse began moving again the motion seem to sooth Merlin’s core and he soon had fallen asleep against Arthur.

Arthur didn’t know how to react when he noticed the child had fallen asleep on him but knew he shouldn’t wake him till they were closer to Camelot. He and the knight continued their way home chatting and laughing as usual seeming to forget the boy quickly. That was until he suddenly jerked awake and almost fell right off of the horse before Arthur grabbed him. “Are you alright, child?”

Unsure of what else he could do Merlin nodded his head, he was uncomfortable around this strange group of men even if they where friends with the prince and taking him to Camelot. That was until one of them on the horse next to him asked why he was going to Camelot.

At Leons question Merlin seemed to suddenly relax and started explaining. “My mother wanted me to apprentice with my Uncle Gaius, well he is not really my uncle but Mother said he helped raise my father and he always called him Uncle so he is my uncle too.” He continued speaking the rest of the journey, which amused Arthur and the knights greatly. Merlin only stopped talking when the gates of Camelot came into view. He drew in a huge breath and seemed speechless at the beauty of the city.

They rode through the city all the way to the castle gates where they got off the horses. Arthur grabbed him and pulled him off the horse so quickly he didn’t know what happened, and he fell down onto his butt. Standing and wiping himself off Merlin glared at Arthur saying “You could have warned me a little.” All the men laughed, and Arthur said he was sorry, while trying to hide his laughter. Merlin narrowed his eyes and went to tell him off but a new voice stopped him. A lady.

“Arthur, you have returned, who is that with you there?” She was the prettiest woman he had ever seen in his life, with dark hair going down the back of her green dress and cloak.

“Ah, Morgana. Wonderful to see you.” He went to kiss her hand, before turning to present Merlin. “This is Merlin, we found him on the way back. He is here to see Gaius.” Morgana introduced herself to Merlin and agreed to take him to Gaius while the men took their horses away.

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Heading up the stairs towards Gaius’ chambers, Merlin was nervous, he had never met him before. He had just heard stories from his mother. Morgana was walking with him holding his hand leading the way, she stopped at the door and asked if he was ready to go in. Quickly, Merlin knelt down and looked in his bag for the letter for Gaius.

“I need to give him this.” Merlin explained. Morgana smiled at him then knocked he door. There was no answer for a very long time and Merlin thought no one was home when suddenly the door swung open pretty fast scaring Merlin of his feet, landing on his backside Merlin groaned.

“Oh, I am very sorry young man. Ah, Lady Morgana, how can I help you?” Turning from helping Merlin up, Morgana smile lightly at Gaius, and pulled Merlin in front of her pushing him to speak.

Looking quickly back to Morgana, Merlin took a deep breath and said to Gaius. “My name is Merlin, my mother sent me to apprentice with you.” After speaking Merlin immediately backed up into Morgana hoping to hide from the stern look Gaius was giving him.

“Who is your mother, boy? Because I am certain I did not agree to a child joining me. I was told a mature boy was coming, not a child too young to stay on his feet.” Gaius raised an eyebrow in as tears came from Merlin’s eyes. Merlin quickly blinked the tears away and held out his mother’s letter for Gaius, who took it and opened it up.

Reading the letter, Gaius was shocked, Hunith had lied about the age of her son so he would agree and have no choice in the matter. Gaius also saw she claimed he had a strange magic and thought he could help. He would do no such thing, magic was illegal here, she should not have sent him.

“I will not have space for you here. You should find somewhere for the night and return home quickly.” Merlin was shocked by this and so was Morgana as she put a comforting hand on his shoulder.

“You cannot just turn the boy away for his age. It is not his fault tha-”

“I am sorry. There is nothing I can do.” Gaius said speaking over her. Before he closed his door.

Morgana led Merlin down the stairs, she seemed to be thinking about what to do with him now. Merlin thought he could just go back to the forest and play with his magic forever, his mother never needed to know that he was turned away. But before he could get away Morgana put a hand on his shoulder and asked if he wanted to stay in her rooms for the night and speak to the King in the morning. Merlin didn’t know about talking to the King but knew he should sleep, so agreed with Morgana’s idea.

Morgana’s rooms were large with a table on one side, and sofas by the fire, between them on the wall was a doorway with a beaded curtain covering it. Morgana said that was her sleeping area, and he should not go back there. On the walls were lots of painting of hills and trees. Morgana told Merlin he could sleep on the large sofa in front of the fireplace, so he went over and lay down falling asleep immediately.

~The next morning~

He awoke to whispers behind him and sat up to look, and saw Morgana with another woman sat at the table talking.

“Hello, who are you?” Merlin blurted out before he could think about it, and then he immediately put his hand over his mouth so he didn’t say anything else.

“Merlin this is my friend, Gwen. I am sorry if our conversation woke you, child.”

“Good morning, Merlin. It is a pleasure to meet you. I was about to get Lady Morgana’s breakfast, did you want anything?” When Gwen came back with the food Merlin was in awe, he had never seen so much food all at once. Then when he was given a large plate full, he thought he would burst if he ate even half of that. He didn’t burst but he felt fuller than he thought possible and quite happy. But he had a small question in his head, that he had at first ignored in favor of eating.

“Why do you make your friend get your food for you, don’t royal people have servants for that?” He questioned. Merlin was sure he was right, and he was disgusted that Morgana was bossing her friend around like that. He clearly showed his feelings on his face, shaking his head. Morgana just laughed lightly then said.

“I am sorry for confusing you, child. Gwen is my maid and friend, I just wanted you to feel comfortable with her. But we were friends first, before she became my maid.” Merlin was relieved, he thought she was nice and he was right. It wasn’t her fault her friend became her maid. “Now are you ready to go and speak to the King about your situation, Merlin.” He nodded, glad for the change of topic, but also scared to meet the King.

Morgana led Merlin along by the hand through the castle towards the throne room where the King should be at the moment. Every hallway looked the same and Merlin wondered how people didn’t get lost here, he thought maybe Morgana was just leading them in circles before they came to a huge doorway for a large room with wide windows along the wall with pictures on the glass. Paintings on the wall opposite of a bunch of old men in armour, some with crowns, and a single painting of a little blonde boy with a crown. There was a platform towards the back of the room with a large chair on it, the throne Merlin thought. Sat on the throne was a big, slightly balding man with a crown on his head.

Morgana walked forward and bowed her head in respect for the King. Merlin stumbled forward and bowed so far, he almost fell over himself. “My Lord, this is Merlin a young boy that Arthur found on his patrol yesterday. He was lost coming here to Camelot to stay with Gaius and Arthur helped him, but Gaius turned him away due to his young age. Now the poor, sweet child has nowhere to go.”

The King held up a hand to silence Morgana, then gestured for Merlin to come to him.

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Merlin was stood just behind Morgana shocked; the King wanted him to go closer. Morgana reached behind him and gave a light shove forward. He walked slowly towards the King and tripped up the step onto the platform almost falling flat on his face before the King reached out and caught him.

Uther took hold of Merlin’s arm and asked if he wished to return home to his mother or stay in the castle under Morgana’s care. Merlin heard a gasp from Morgana behind him but ignored it for his own shock, he shrugged his shoulders then stopped himself as this was a King, he should be polite.

“I don’t know, Sir. My mother sent me here to learn and work and doesn’t want for me to return until I am grown.”

“Then it is decided you will stay here. I will have a room prepared for you by tonight for now do as you wish.”

As Morgana led Merlin out of the throne room, she couldn’t hold the smile away. Merlin was led through many corridors before they emerged into the courtyard of the castle and walked around the people to the gate through to the bustling city. They walked around for a bit until they were found by a servant and told that Merlin’s room was ready for him.

The room beside Morganas was smaller than hers but to Merlin it felt large and spacious, the bed was huge with a canopy and Merlin immediately wanted to jump on it, which he did. Morgana wanted to stop him but he looked happy.

Morgana told Merlin to get ready for lunch with Uther, Arthur and herself while she also got ready next door. Merlin thought his clothes were fine and he was bored so he decided to go for a walk. After getting lost loads of times Merlin finally found the way outside. Walking around Merlin started hearing shouting and laughing so went that way. He came upon a large training area filled with knights.

“Where’s the target?” Merlin hears a voice say, he thinks he knows him. Looking over he sees Arthur the man that helped him before and he was throwing daggers at a target being carried by another man who looked scared.

Just as Merlin got close the man dropped the target and it rolled over to him, stopping it with him foot he looked to Arthur and spoke,
“Hey, don’t be mean, Arthur”

Arthur laughed and looked over at his friends, “Uhm, do I know you little boy?”

“Yes, I’m Merlin, we met yesterday.”

“Oh, of course, I remember you. Do you remember who I am because you shouldn’t speak to me like that.”

“Yes, I know, you should stop before I stop you.” Merlin interrupted him with his fast response, before turning away to go back to the castle. Before he could take two steps, he felt a hand grip his shoulder stopping him he tried to shake it off but the grip was too strong. Merlin reached up to grab the hand to push it away but before he could think to magic the man away, he heard a shout across the field.

“Merlin, I was so worried you should not run off like that- Arthur I am so glad you found him.” Morgana slowed her run to a walk and pulled Merlin into a hug as soon as she got to him. Merlin tried to wriggle away but was glad to be out of Arthurs grip.

“Morgana what is going on?” Arthur said because Morgana should not be looking after a strange boy she met yesterday.

Looking up from checking Merlin over, Morgana smirked at him. “I guess you will find out later at lunch with your father.” Arthur went to ask more but Morgana took Merlin’s hand and began leading him away.

__

After finding out why Merlin wandered off Morgana decided he needed to be watched all the time so it did not happen again, especially after the announcement that would be made soon. At the moment Merlin seemed to be entertaining himself with a book he had found flipping pages and saying the letters he knew.

Lunch was to be served soon so Morgana and Merlin left the rooms and started the long walk to the dining hall. The walk over was peaceful but long, other than Merlin almost falling a dozen times they made it safely to lunch.

As the doors were opened, they heard Arthur trying to get answers from his father about Merlin. He stopped midsentence and turned looking embarrassed.
“Morgana, Merlin come sit.” Uther said. “Lunch is to be served any moment now.”

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Lunch was uneventful other than Merlin spilling everything down his jumper, he listened to the adults talking about him. Morgana kept smiling at him and pulling faces making him giggle. Merlin didn’t care what the adults were talking about he knew enough that he didn’t need to listen so he sat on the floor away from the table after he finished his food playing with a wooden figure he had from his mother.

Merlin placed the toy in front of him for a moment and when he tried to grab it, it was kicked away by a servant sliding all the way to under Uther’s chair. The servant didn’t notice and kept going putting a small tray on the table and walking away.

Taking a deep breath, Merlin got up and slowly walked over to get his toy getting down to reach his toy and he heard Arthur.

“What of the feast, Lady Helena is visiting we cannot announce something like this then and people would wonder about him if he is there?”

“It will be fine he will sit away from everyone but so that we know where he is.”

“Perhaps I could ask Gwen to get him food and keep him company.” At that Merlin shouted happily.

“Yes please, I love Gwen.”

Morgana, Uther and Arthur all flinched at the same time as they had not noticed Merlin come closer again or thought he was listening to them. This made Merlin giggle. Then because of the reaction to that he laughed harder even falling to the floor.

__

The rest of the day was boring for Merlin except when walking down the hallway after a walk with Morgana, a strange voice calling out but no one was there.

“Merlin…”

“Merlin…”

It scared Merlin but he decided to ignore it because he couldn’t see anyone so it wasn’t important.

__

Sleep came easy for Merlin that night, he had never felt a softer bed before. As soon as he sat the bed sank down, Merlin got up and started blowing out candles when Gwen walked in and told him to sit. Gwen went around and put out all the candles then she pulled the blanket up and tucked it around Merlin making sure he was comfortable.

Merlin was shocked because he had to do it himself as home, and he wasn’t used to such care from strangers even very nice ones.

Merlin slept through the whole night in the warm bed and woke up early to someone calling him.

“Merlin…”

“Merlin…”

He looked around but no one was there. Morgana walked in and called his name then and he fell of the bed in shock. Lying on the floor Merlin looked up at her.

“Good morning, Morgana.”

“Good morning, why ever are you on the floor?” Merlin stuck his tongue out at her and got up.

Going over to her Merlin asked what they were doing that day.

“First of all, we are going into town, and then we have to get you ready for the feast.”

__

In town Merlin couldn’t stop himself from looking at and touching everything. It was all so bright and new to him. The 2 guards with Morgana and Merlin were the only thing keeping him from running around at full speed, and only because they were scary.

Morgana picked out a few pieces of clothing for him that fit better and said they would get more when they had time, but she had already got him more clothes than he had owned in his entire life.

As they were walking around, Arthur passed by them with a crew of men all laughing and joking, at the moment Arthur looked over and saw them Merlin tripped over his own feet caused another round of laughter from the group.

“He cannot even stay standing for a minute without help.” Laughed one of the men.

“It’s almost like I’ve only learned to walk recently, because I’m 7, butthead.” Shouted Merlin.

Arthur laughed and shoved the man who said that. “Butthead, that’s great!”

Morgana was holding back her laughter, while Arthur was outright about it. Merlin was confused what was funny which caused more laughter. Merlin likes making people laugh though so decided to trip the mean man with his magic as he walked away. Arthur and his men walked away laughing at him as he tripped over his own feet.

“That was strange, was it not, Merlin.” Morgana laughed.” Now we must be going, it’s time for lunch.”

__

Morgana, Merlin and Gwen sat and had lunch together, the adults telling Merlin all about the singer coming for the feast.

After lunch, Gwen laid out some clothes for Merlin and went away to help Morgana saying she would come help if he needed it when she was done with Morgana.

Merlin dressed quickly and was going to sit and wait for Gwen when his name was called by that voice again, he thought Gwen would be a while so he followed the voice sneaking out his rooms past the guards.

Following the call Merlin came to a set of stairs going to the dungeon, he distracted the guards by rolling their dice away from them.

Grabbing a torch as he runs past, going through many paths he finally comes across a large open cavern.

He hears his name again followed by a laugh now a lot closer to him but he sees nothing in his light.

“Where are you?” He shouts into the air.

“I am here.” Said the voice as a large dragon swooped into the space ahead of him. “How small you are for such a great destiny.”

“Woah, you’re a dragon. Wait destiny? What do you mean?”

“Your gift Merlin was given to you for a reason. Arthur is the once and future king who will unite the land of Albion. But he faces many threats from friends and foe alike.”

“What’s this got to do with me, dragon?”

“Everything. Without you, Arthur will never succeed. Without you, there will be no Albion.”

“But I’m a kid I can’t help Arthur.”

“None of us can change our destiny, Merlin, and none of us can escape it.” He said as he started to fly away. Disappearing into the dark.

Merlin was confused but knew he had to get back to Gwen.

__

“I don’t understand why I have to be there at all, if no one is going to see me anyway.”

“Well Merlin, Morgana wants to make sure you don’t get into any trouble and I must be at the feast. The only thing to do is have you there out of sight for now.”

“Ugh, this is going to be so boring.”

__

Sitting on the stairs watching all the people talking Merlin saw Arthur talking with a group.

“’I’m 7. Butthead.’ It was so funny.” Arthur imitated Merlin then pretended to trip, all the men laughing.

Morgana walked past the group causing silence among them. She looked beautiful.

“God have Mercy.” One of the men said. Making Arthur look at him in disgust.

A horn said as the King walked into the hall and everyone finds their seat.

“We have enjoyed twenty years of peace and prosperity. It has brought the kingdom and myself many privileges, but few can compare with the honour of introducing Lady Helen of Mora.”

Merlin watches as everyone claps as music begins and all the people turn to watch the other side of the room where there is lady he didn’t notice before has started singing.

It a squeaky loud voice which made Merlin cover his ears because it hurt them. Looking around he saw people nodding off to sleep. Curling tightly when cobwebs start going over everyone Merlin watches the lady staring at Arthur and going towards him.

When he saw her pull out a dagger, he tried to find something to do looking up he saw the chandelier he knew he had to drop it. So, he did, closing his eyes before it hit.

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Merlin heard a bang and smashing sounds followed by the groaning of the people around him waking slowly. Cracking his eyes open slightly he saw an old woman in the clothes of the singing lady crouched beneath the chandelier which confused him, but he saw her prepare to throw the dagger at Arthur he ran to move him grabbing him in time to pull him away from the blade which embedded itself into the chair he previously sat in. Crushed beneath Arthur’s weight Merlin tried to push the shocked man away, Morgana ran over seeing that he was struggling and helped Arthur move off him, and checking him over.

King Uther stood and called for the guards to move the chandelier and take the body of the woman away. While Gaius moved close to Merlin with a strange look on his face, making Merlin step back gripping Morgana’s skirt.

“What on earth happened?” Arthur exclaimed.

Gaius while still looking closely at Merlin said calmly “That was magic.” Causing Merlin to step further back behind Morgana.

“He saved me, how did he save me?” Arthur asked while staring pale faced at his chair and the knife that is stuck in it.

_

Merlin lay awake in his bed thinking over what had happened, he did not like the look on Gaius’ face when he spoke of magic. What if the man knew his secret, he had to get away from the castle quickly in case he tells anyone. As he gets up from his bed there is a light knock on his door and it opens slowly revealing Gaius, who begins talking as soon as he sees him standing there.

“I know of your magic, boy and I will tell no one of it I may have something that can help you learn control.” He then pulled out and presented Merlin with a large, old book with symbols all around it.

As soon as he fully held onto the book Gaius let it go almost making it fall to the floor as it was so heavy. Then Gaius closed the door and left.

Obviously Merlin was shocked and confused as he flipped open the book and looked at all the words and symbols that he couldn’t understand. He didn’t know what to do with it as he could barely read and magic was not allowed so who would help him understand it.

Placing the book under his bed for now until he could figure it out, he went to get back on his bed and fell asleep quickly.

_

In the morning Gwen came in to wake Merlin, and prepare him for the day and finding his feet on his pillow, pulling the blanket fully off him she found his body contorted to strange angles. Laughing and calling in Morgana, Merlin woke to see Gwen and Morgana looking at him with strange smiles on their faces.

“Good morning, what’s funny.”

“You sweet child, your body being all twisted up, must be uncomfortable.”

Twisting himself to be upright and getting off the bed he just shrugged. “What are we doing today?”

When he was dressing himself he tripped and saw the book under his bed and decided he needed to know how to read properly so he went to ask Morgana to teach him how.

Laughing she said he would be starting lessons today on all sorts of things including reading.

_

The whole time sat with the tutor he could barely contain his excitement as he slowly began to read the sentences written out for him. Learning how to read and write was not something he ever expected he would do because he never needed it in Ealdor.

After his morning lessons in reading he had the rest of the day free, except he had to be at a meeting with the King and Morgana to announce that he was now a ward of the Royal Family.

His new fancy clothes were uncomfortable and he was glad he only had to be dressed like this for important events like this.

The King also announced a tournament to take place in the next couple days and Merlin was very excited to see Arthur fight in that.

Chapter Text

Merlin sat and watched as all of the knights arrived in Camelot and handed over their seals for his morning, then spent his afternoon watching Arthur train for the tournament.

Arthur was supposed to be teaching Merlin basic sword fighting but Merlin was more than happy just watching. That is until Arthur saw him laughing and called him over and placed a large helmet on his head completely blocking his view and a chest plate over his shoulders.

Getting bonked repeatedly with a wooden sword was definitely not his idea of fun, but using his magic to trip Arthur was a highlight.

_

Sitting beside Morgana and Gwen, Merlin watched the knight gather in the arena. He listens to the King’s speech …

“Knights of the realm, it's a great honour to welcome you to a tournament at Camelot. Over the next three days, you will come to put your bravery to the test, your skills as warriors, and of course, to challenge the reigning champion, my son, Prince Arthur. Only one can have the honour of being crowned champion, and he will receive a prize of 1,000 gold pieces.”

Merlin then watched as a box was open to the side of Uther revealing the gold.

“It is in combat that we learn a knight's true nature, whether he is indeed a warrior or a coward. The tournament begins!”

The crowd cheered and the knights, other than Arthur and one other, head out of the arena.

The king pats Arthur’s shoulder and says something Merlin doesn’t hear before coming over to his seat near Merlin. Then guards took Arthur and the other knights capes and they put helmets on.

The crowd started cheering as the knight began fighting. Gwen whoops as Arthur takes down his opponent quickly.

Merlin begins to get bored walking the knights fight each other over and over so he gets up and sneaks away around to where the knights are gathered, and goes to be by Arthur.

“May I offer my congratulations on your victories today?” A knight he doesn’t know said to Arthur.

“Likewise.” He replied curtly.

“I hope to see you at the reception this evening.” He says then leaves with a servant trailing behind him.

“Creep.” Merlin said from behind Arthur making him jump slightly before snorting.

_

Merlin laid on his stomach under the bed in his chambers looking at and trying to read bits that he could when he heard the door open.

“Merlin, where are you?” Morgana’s voice rang through the room and Merlin closed the book before sliding out from under the bed and smiling up at here.

She looked confused but beckoned him to follow her.

_

Merlin stood just behind Morgana who was beside the King watching the knights line up to meet them.

“Knight Valiant of the Western Isles, My Lord.” Said the knight who was speaking with Arthur earlier at the arena.

“I saw you fight today. You have a very aggressive style.” Uther replied.

“Well, as My Lord said, "To lose is to be disgraced.””

“I couldn’t agree more. Knight Valiant, may I present the Lady Morgana, my ward.” He gestured to her.

“My Lady.” He said bowing to kiss her hand while Arthur looks on from behind him with an annoyed look.

“I saw you competing today.”

“I saw you watching. I understand the tournament champion has the honour of escorting My Lady to the feast.”

“That's correct.”

“Then I will give everything to win the tournament.” She smiles and nods to him and he nod back. He then walks over to shake hands with the other knights.

Arthur and his father greet each other before he walked over to speak with Morgana.

“They all seem rather impressed by Knight Valiant.” She said looking over at him.

“They’re not the only ones.”

“You’re not jealous, are you?”

“I don’t see anything to be jealous of.” He said looking confused. Merlin watched him walk away to the other knights then heard Morgana quietly say to Gwen.

“Could Arthur be any more annoying? I so hope Knight Valiant wins the tournament.” Merlin turned to look over at her and saw Gwen smile slightly.

“You don’t really mean that.” She said quietly back to her.

“Yes, I do.” She said firmly.

_

Merlin took a walk around the castle after sneaking out his chambers past the guards and found a room full of weapons and shields.

Looking around trailing his hand along the swords gathered together when he heard hissing over by the shields. He walked over slowly thinking he may find a snake but found only a shield with a snake image on it and one of them seems to blink.

He reaches out to touch it when someone puts a sword to his chest. Merlin steps back in shock tripping over and ends up on his back with a sword to his chest.

“Can I help you with something, boy?” Knight Valiant says holding the sword steady.

“No, sir. I was just looking around.” He almost whispered in his fear.

“Then you’d best be on your way.” He said darkly moving his sword back from near Merlin.

He immediately got up and ran stumbling to get away as fast as he could.

_

Merlin knew he shouldn’t have been out from his chambers but decided he should tell someone what had happened, so he walked to Morgana’s chambers to speak with her.

Before he had a chance to speak she asked him if he was okay, which made him start crying, then he told her what had happened through his tears.

Morgana was outraged and was going to tell Uther but as she got up Merlin grabbed her hand saying he probably thought he was just a little boy and not supposed to be anywhere near there.

She was still angry but decided not to go to Uther straight away at Merlin’s request.

_

Merlin sat in Arthur’s chambers and watched as his servant put his armour on really quickly while he just stood waiting, tapping his foot impatiently.

The man fumbled one of the bit for his sleeve and Arthur sighed loudly and began grumbling about useless servants.

Merlin frowned at him and was about to tell him off when he grabbed his helmet and walked out of the room and began heading to the arena. Merlin trailed after him disappointed with Arthur for treating his servant badly.

Chapter Text

Merlin watched from beside Morgana as the knights fight in the arena. Keeping a close eye on Knight Valiant who had a Camelot Knight, Ewan he thinks, pinned beneath his shield.

The trapped knight was grappling with the shields edge to keep it away from where it was pushing into his chest. His face remained calm and his free arm from stretching away towards his dropped sword.

Valiant seems to be speaking to his opponent quietly before Ewan face changes to confusion. Merlin then sees a snake come to life out of his shield and bite the trapped Knight after he says more words.

The knight seems to hit Ewan with his sword at the same time he’s bitten by the snake. Cheers and shouts come loudly from the crowd as Valiant stands from his body.

Gaius runs from the side of the arena with a bag while Valiant is standing accepting cheers before walking away. Guards run on with a bed sort of thing after Gaius calls them over, and lift Ewan onto it before taking him away.

_

Merlin decides he should see where Valiant went and sneaks around behind Morgana and Gwen where they are watching the Knight get taken away.

Going into the castle he makes sure to be far enough behind to not be seen before Valiant gets to his guest chamber.

Through a gap in the door Merlin sees Valiant pull a mouse out of a cage.

“Dinner time. Come on.” He says, then snakes appear out of the shield and eat the mouse.

Merlin stumbles back from the door shocked and has to hide in an alcove when Valiant gets up to look out his door.

_

Merlin enters Gaius’ chambers and looks around at the interesting things everywhere before he sees Sir Ewan laid on a small bed and he goes to sit beside him to wait for Gaius to return.

When he walks in he sees Merlin sat by the bed immediately but Merlin begins speaking without giving him time to speak.

“I’ve just seen one of the snakes in Knight Valiant’s shield come to life. I think he’s using magic, sir.” He said while hoping Gaius would believe him.

“Are you sure, young man? That is a very serious accusation.”

“The snake ate a mouse - one swallow, straight down. Sir Ewan was fighting Valiant when he collapsed. It must've been one of the snakes from the shield. I have to tell Arthur.”

“Is there any chance you might be mistaken, boy?” Gaius said raising his eyebrow.

“I know what magic looks like. It was obvious.”

“Perhaps. Have you any proof?”

“Why do you not believe me? I am no liar.” Merlin said pulling himself to stand tall.

“You’ll land yourself in trouble. How will you explain your knowledge of this?” He said seemingly trying to calm himself.

“What does it matter? He’s using magic he’ll hurt people.”

“You cannot go accusing a knight of using magic without proof. The king would never accept the word of a mere boy over the word of a knight.”

“So what I say count for nothing? Why am I even here then?” He began to leave making his way through the room to the door.

“I’m afraid it counts very little as far as the King is concerned.” Merlin walked out the door way continuing down the hallway. “That is the way it is, boy.” Gaius called after him, before turning back to his patient.

___

Merlin stood beside Arthur watching him prepare for his next fight. A giant man whose servant is stood beside on a step stool to put his armour on his shoulders.

“You have to fight that. He’s huge, he could squish me flat.”

“ He’s strong as a bear. But he’s slow.” Arthur stated after a low chuckle at Merlin’s statement.

“And you’re fast. Right.” Merlin said bouncing on his feet.

“Exactly.” He said smiling calmly down at the young boy before ruffling his hair and walking away leaving Merlin to try smooth his hair down.

Merlin stands and watches from where the knight are watching the fight there are not fighting in to watch Arthur fight the bear man. He looks across to Morgana before they begin and he sees here holding Gwen’s hand to her chest and speaking to her.

Arthur fights the big knight and defeats him easily with quick movements. Merlin remains in his place to watch the next fight Valiant wins once more almost the same as his other fights pinning his opponent down.

Valiant won and now all left was the finale between him and Arthur. Merlin was certain Valiant would use the shield snakes to kill Arthur.

Looking over to where Gaius was by the fallen knight he saw he had realised the same.

___

“We need proof, child. We cannot let that man get away with this. If we only had an antidote we could cure Ewan and he would be our proof.”

“How do you get an antidote?”

“It is made from the poison used, but I’ve no idea how to get it.”

Merlin smiled and turned to go follow Morgana into the castle leaving Gaius standing at the edge of the arena.

Chapter Text

“Long Live Valiant!” The cheer echoed loudly around the council chamber and out to where Merlin was sat by the doorway looking in.

Merlin could see The King and Valiant speaking at the top of the room. He couldn’t hear over the celebration but now he knew Valiant was going to be her a while so he had time to find the shield snakes.

Sneaking through the castle trying to be unnoticed by guards and servants on his journey to find the snakes, Merlin just left the armoury without seeing Knight Valiant’s shield and was now heading to his rooms in hope it would be there.

Merlin peered around a corner watching two servants walk up the corridor away from him and his goal. They were whispering and laughing as they walked which caused a distraction for the guards allowing Merlin to cross the path unnoticed.

Finally arriving Merlin tried to push door open only to find it locked, he focused deeply trying to see the lock with his magic and figure out how to open it but just the thought of opening it and the lock clicked and the door swung open.

“Oh, that was easy.” Merlin whispered to himself, letting the door swing open slowly, looking around Merlin couldn’t see the shield anywhere in the open so he had to go in further past the curtain blocking off the bed seeing the shield sat on a chair beside it.

Getting closer he reached out lightly letting his hand graze the painted snakes, a loud clatter happened out in the hallway making Merlin flinch back and turn away from the shield.

‘Hiss.’

Merlin turned at the sound only to see two snake sticking out of the shield stretching towards him. As he looked around he saw a big sword, grabbing it letting it drop down making a big scratch in the wood floor.

Looking back up a third snake snuck out the shield and fully dropped out onto the floor, slithering towards him.

Raising the sword up and letting it swing back down, chopping its head straight off, instantly the other two snakes went quickly back into the shield.

Merlin quickly dropped the sword onto the floor and scooped up the snake head before turning and leaving running to the door and out.

Footsteps echoed down the hall and Merlin ran and hid in the alcove he used before, noticing a second to late he didn’t full shut the door.

Knight Valiant strode down the hall, looking menacing when he noticed his door open slightly, he pushed it further and walked in.

Merlin took the chance to run further away while he was inside, getting round the corner when Valiant walked out his room sword in his hand. Merlin ran all the way back to his own chambers, sliding himself under his bed, breathing fast and trying to be quiet.

“Merlin. What’s gotten into you?” Morgana said kneeling down beside the bed.

Getting his breathing under control Merlin pulled himself forward and out to where Morgana was looking towards him with concern. Lifting the snake head in front of him and showing it to her.

“Knight Valiant’s using magic. This snake came out his shield. I have to find Gaius.” Merlin scrambled to his feet and across to the door. Morgana followed behind him looking bewildered.

___

Gaius held the snake head on a jar getting the venom decanted into it.

“I should have this prepared and Sir Ewan will be better before we know it. But the Prince and King should know of the use of magic.”

Merlin reached up to take the snake head back before grabbing onto Morgana’s hand to drag her along to find Arthur.

___

Walking away from Arthur’s locked and empty chambers, the guards stood nearby caught their attention. Morgana called out asking him where Arthur was at the moment.

“The Prince was called to speak with The King in his private office, My Lady.” The guards said bowing his head lightly in respect.

“Thank you.” Morgana said before sweeping away in the opposite direction.

“Thanks, Mr Guard.” Merlin said waving as he ran off following Morgana.

Morgana slowed to a stop outside of a plain wooden door causing Merlin to bump into her before stopping too. She knocked loudly on the door before opening it for Merlin.

Arthur and Uther were speaking together in the Kings large office room when Merlin stumbled in with Morgana staying just inside the door.

“Excuse me, my lord.” Merlin said copying something a servant had said when interrupting the King before.

The King looked over and saw Morgana then looked down to him before smiling lightly at him.

“Hello Merlin. How are you child?” Uther said stepping towards him and bending down to his height. Merlin took a deep breath before presenting the snake head in the same way he did to Morgana.

“The scary knight, Valiant, is using magic.” At first Uther was smiling slightly at how he referred to Knight Valiant, but his face dropped at the word magic. His hands reached out before Merlin could react he was being held onto by the King, unable to pull away.

“That is a very serious accusation to make, boy. Have you any proof?” His deep voice filling Merlin with fear. Trying to pull back from the strong grip, Merlin began mumbling through what he knew.

As he spoke the painful grip released slightly, and he got more confident telling the king of the snakes.

Once he stopped speaking Uther lightly squeezed his arms before releasing him and standing.

“You were very brave, Merlin. We must find Valiant and put him in the dungeons while we search his things.”

___

Merlin stood beside Gwen, at the side of the throne room where he first met Uther. While the King, Arthur and Morgana sat in their large throne like chairs.

All the Knights competing and a few others are stood around the room, not knowing why they were called there.

The large ornate doors swing open, and the sound of chains rattling can be heard for a moment before anyone comes into view.

Knight Valiant is dragged in with chains around his wrists and feet. The Knights pulling him abruptly stop and release him making him fall down onto his knees before the King.

“Knight Valiant. You are charged with high treason, and use of magic enchantments. Your shield was found to have magic snakes that come out at your command, helping you win the tournament.” The King said before standing and stepping down walking towards the kneeling man.

When he looked up Merlin saw he had some dark bruises on his face, he kind of felt sorry for him, just a little bit.

“What do you say to this accusation? Valiant.”

Knight Valiant looked around at the other knights before seeing Merlin beside Gwen holding her hand, he glared darkly over to him before speaking.

“There must be a mistake, my Lord. I would never use magic, to cheat, or for anything else. Where did you hear this tale?” He said rising himself to his feet to face the King properly.

“My source is right. You dare say I am wrong.” The guards stepped forward at the Kings call grabbing the man’s arms holding him. “My ward, told me of your plot to cheat in the tournament. He also told me how you attacked him in the armoury.”

Valiant looked again at Merlin and growled attempting to lunge at him but luckily held back by the men holding him. Merlin flinched back half hiding behind Gwen gripping her dress tightly. Morgana stood from her chair and walked to stand in front of Merlin, putting her hand on his head.

“He is wrong though. The boy. I’m not here to cheat, I came to kill your son.” He said raising his voice about the outraged crowd, and pulling harder against his captors.

Valiant was hung for his crimes. Merlin got to avoid seeing it though, the King thought it best he not witness such a thing.

Chapter Text

Merlin was walking with his tutor in the castle courtyard when he saw Gwen walk through the drawbridge gate with a bundle of flowers, looking to him for permission he turned and ran over to her.

As he approached he saw Gaius walking by with a guard pulling a large covered cart.

“What are you moving, Gaius? It looks very heavy.” Merlin slowed and stopped beside her also waiting for Gaius’ answer. Gwen looked down quickly to smile at him before looking back up.

“Oh, nothing important, dear. Did someone get you flowers? They’re very nice, aren’t they Merlin.” He said gazing down to him.

“Yeah. They’re the most beautifulest flowers I ever saw.” Merlin said bouncing on his toes, happy to be included in the grown up conversation.

“Oh! No. Would you like one Merlin? Perhaps purple. It’s suits you.” She said plucking a purple flower from the bunch and handing it to him.

“I must be going now.” Gaius said before leading the cart away quickly.

Gwen watched after him for a moment before looking back at Merlin and seeing the flower tucked behind his ear and a wide smile on his face.

They walked back to his tutor together, the wide smile never leaving his face.

“Hello Franklin, how has Merlin been this morning.”

“Guinevere, Merlin has been his usual self. Full of energy, and ready to learn. Our lesson is done for now I was just about to walk him back to his rooms.” Franklin said with a light smile on his face watching Merlin playing with the little flower.

“Well this is perfect timing. I can take him off your hands as I am heading over there now.” She said grabbing Merlin’s hand and leading him away gently.

“Bye Frank. See you later.” Merlin shouted waving him flower holding hand as he walked backwards. Franklin waved back lightly, looking slightly relieved to see them leave.

___

Merlin sat on the big chair by the fire in Morgana’s rooms while Gwen went back to give her the flowers she picked Merlin continued playing with the one she gave him, before placing it back behind his ear.

Morgana and Gwen walked out from behind the bedchambers smiling, Gwen going over to a vase and putting the flowers into it.

Morgana stepped beside Merlin and saw his flower she brushed her hand through his hair smiling at him, before saying she liked it.

The three of them prepared to leave for a walk in the town, Merlin walking ahead as usual. Merlin was proud of himself because he managed to lead the way without mistake today. As they got out and went down the steps they saw Arthur crossing the courtyard towards them.

“Ladies, Merlin.” He greets, before looking at Merlin strangely, really at his flower. Merlin pulled it from behind his ear to show him fully.

“Gwen gave me this. It’s really nice, isn’t it.” He said looking up with wide eyes, tilting his head slightly to the side. Arthur seemed to be confused for a moment before smiling.

“It’s lovely. I must be going. Bye now.” He spoke as he walked away up the stairway.

The walk through town was calm, Merlin was able to look around freely and see all the things people had on their carts.

As they were beginning the walk back up to the castle Merlin saw a man sat on the floor, looking very pale, before he could go ask if he was ok a group of knights lead by Arthur past by checking everyone’s things as they went.

Gaius came to stand beside Gwen and Morgana, Merlin slightly ahead turned to see him.

“Hello Gaius, look that man is sick can we help him.” Gaius looked over before gripping Merlin’s shoulder and pulling him back a step.

“That man has a sickness I cannot heal.”

“But you haven’t even tried.” Merlin was confused by the grip still holding him.

“If you don’t know what the disease is, how can we cure it?”

Merlin turned fully to him before saying they could use magic. Gaius just sighed before gesturing around them to the knights.

“Look around. They are suspicious of everyone. This is not the time to use magic, they think this sickness is a curse, but science will lead us to the source of this disease.”

____

Merlin sat on a hard wooden bench having followed Gaius to his chambers.

“What are you doing?” Merlin questioned watching Gaius heat a vail of liquid over a small flame.

“I am examining the contents of that man’s stomach.” He nodded over to the other side of the room where a sheet covered a body. Merlin glanced over and stayed where he was not wanting to get close to a dead man.

“Will that tell you who did it?”

“No, but it might tell us how it spreads. One thing I do know, this is magic of the darkest kind.”

“Who would use magic like that though?”

“Magic corrupts. People use the power for their own ends.”

“But Gaius, not all magic is bad. I know it isn’t.”

“It is neither good nor bad, it depends on how you use it.”

At that moment Arthur bursted in along with a group of guards.

“Look over there.” He said to the guards. “Sorry Gaius, we’re searching every room in town, the sorcerer could be anywhere.”

“Why would he be in Gaius’ room? That makes no sense Arthur.” Merlin said from where he was still seated. Arthur turned trying to hide his shock that he didn’t notice Merlin was there.

“I am just doing my job.”

“I’ve nothing to hide. Just be careful those papers are my life work of researching scientific healing methods. Feel free to read them if you wish.”

Arthur grimaced then pointed to the door at the back of the room up some steps. “What’s this room up there?”

“That is just where patients sleep if they need to.” Gaius called loudly to Arthur as he went in.

Turning to Merlin he asked if he had properly hidden his magic book in case Arthur had to search inside the main castle.

Merlin turned to leave after nodding to the older man, and he began the trek across the castle back to his room beside Morgana’s.

He was pretty proud of himself, as he only got lost twice on his way. He did end up asking a servant that passed for help though. As the servant left he pushed open the door and entered into his room.

He could hear Morgana and Gwen the other side of the screen doorway talking about the sickness, same as everyone he had passed on the way there.

Quickly sneaking to where his book was he made sure it wouldn’t be seen by anyone if they searched his room.