Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Chapter Text

To say Morgana was confused was an understatement, why of all the bloody humans, why, why, just why that pesky little servant. She knows he has something to do with Emrys, but why HIM.

“Lady Morgana, I can see your hesitance at the boy’s involvement, so I have a surprise for all or well most of you all” spoke Pasha gracing them all with a smile.

The room brightened with a blue light and out of in a portal appeared. A black bluish portal.

“NO!” a voice screamed magic behind it shaking the ground slightly.

Morgana looked at the portal shaking and crying.

“Sister”

As the voice spoke Morgana ran and jumped only for her to be caught by her sister.

“Morgause” Morgana screamed running her fingers through her sister’s hair, crying all the while.

The display was touching for some while the others prepared for battle. Arthur draw his sword as did all his knights and Morgause looked at them coldly preparing to fight.

“Enough! Pashas’s voice was loud and intimidating, the light appeared blinding the room.

The light danced around from the sorceress to the knights, spinning around them while they could do nothing but close their eyes.

Until all disappeared. The room was dark again candles the only light.

The knights opened their eyes all knowing one thing, their swords were no more. The weight of the object completely disappeared except for one person.

Morgause opened her eyes feeling empty yet free. Magic was locked. Completely and utterly locked. There, but only as a faint whisper.

“I have told you my terms, so no fighting is allowed, lady Morgause that is your only chance, you agreed to the terms, so I did not remove your magic when you entered, but as it seems you want to manipulate even the gods it has been locked as with most of them. The knights I have confiscated your blades, none is to be used”.

Morgause bowed slightly “My apologies my lady I wanted to defend my sister”.

“Excuse me” Arthur’s voice spoke confused.

“You said you’d confiscate our blades, yet my sword is still here”.

Morgana finally looked back shocked, the knights all being at the loss for words while the druids and Mordred smiled.

The goddess smiled at the King.

“That is correct young King, I confiscated all the swords, but yours as it is the gift of Emrys himself, I have no power to take it from your hands”.

“A gift from Emrys? I pulled this sword from a stone, what gift?” Arthur was feeling like he has finally lost him…

Actually no, according to Merlin, he already lost it.

“More on that latter, just let me finish with your gift or we will never start” said the goddess while the Gaius looked sympathetic after all, he deals with Merlin and his King every day.

Arthur did not look satisfied, but oh well he is never satisfied so the goddess just pointed to the Veil opened in the room.

“Right, I forgot about that” Arthur spoke still unsure what to focus on.

“May I come out now lady Pasha, this is rather boring if you ask me” a voice spoke from within.

A familiar voice thought Percival, very familiar.

“You may sir knight, I apologize you had to wait this long” Pasha spoke smiling only a bit too wildly.

Arthur glared at the portal and outside it stepped a knight.

…

“Lance?” Percival looked up at his friend.

“Sorry to leave you all alone my friends” Lancelot smiled and started walking to their direction.

Percival was first to move hugging his brother in arms almost immediately.

“I took care of merlin for you” said Percival, crying on Lance’s shoulder.

“I knew you would thank you and thank you for staying alive” Lance just patted the back of his friend.

“My turn” screamed Gwaine jumping on Lance, Percival expecting this already moved.

“Nice to see you too Gwaine” Lance hugged Gwaine.

“Don’t do this again yeah” was all the response he got as Gwaine laughed.

“I’ll try”.

Elyan and Leon just quickly hugged him, giving sly remarks with Leon being very threatening “Don’t do this again”.

Lance then spun from his friends laughing at him to look at the king and his love Gwen.

Arthur was still stuck in place while Gwen cried while she no longer loved Lancelot the same way she did Arthur she still loved and cared for him.

Lance just extended his arms and she moved. Gwen flew to him and hugged him as tightly as she could, afraid she would lose him again.

Arthur then finally decided to speak “Lancelot, nice of you to join us, but before anything I would like to ask a question”.

All the knights tensed, and Morgana looked at Arthur with interest.

“Yes, my lord?” Lance said as he let go of Gwen and kneeled before his king.

“A while ago you interrupted my and Gwen’s wedding, I would like to know why?” Arthur’s voice was strong yet filled with feelings of betrayal that have been buried.

Lancelot looked at his lord.

“I am sorry my lord, there is no excuse, but I did love Gwen. I will say this much, I would never brake up your and Gwen’s wedding no matter my feelings.”

Arthur punched the wall next to him “Then what happened that day”.

Lancelot looked to the ground as did Gwen, everything quieted.

“Oh, enough brother. That was my fault, I turned him in a shade to brake your wedding” Morgana’s voice was nonchalant, not caring yet annoyed at having her moment with her sister be interrupted.

“Wha-“

“Arthur Pendragon, you will get your answer, just know Lancelot did you no harm it was Morgana. You will learn more as you watch” Pascha spoke calmly.

Arthur was infuriated, not knowing what is true and what not anymore. He wishes Merlin was here, yet he feels grateful knowing Lancelot hasn’t betrayed him. Arthur steps before the kneeling knight pulling him up and in a hug.

“Merlin missed you, we all did” Arthur spoke.

“Thank you, my lord, I did as well, all of you”.

Pascha clicked her tongue.

“Okay, okay now that this is over, we have two more, who I doubt any of you will be pleased to see so let it be quick.”

At those words all eyes went to the portal yet again reveling two men.

Morgana’s eyes burned with hatred as did Morgause’s. Arthur teared up at first only for betrayal to wash over him.

Two men walked out Uther Pendragon and Agravaine de Bois.

“Father” Arthur bowed slightly to his father until his eyes fell on Agravaine showing nothing but betrayal.

“Arthur, I trust you have been well, how has Camelot been since my departure”.

Uther spoke too casually for Arthur to like, something was missing. He was about to comment, but a voice interrupted him.

“Uther does not remember him time as a ghost and Agravaine does not remember his death as that information would spoil your reaction. All memories will be recovered in time”.

Uther’s time as a ghost. Yes, he did a lot of harm, but what did his father learn that was so important.

Well Arthur can think about that later, now he must hug his father and so he did.

Morgana just looked at Uther with hatred, but decided it was not worth it. He is still dead. No matter what.

Uther hugged his only son, but secretly watched Morgana. Now at least he will know what changed his darling daughter, or more like who changed her.

Agravaine not knowing what to do stepped to Morgana’s side but kept his distance. As when Uther and Arthur broke from the hug, Uther stood by his son.

“Finally, now that this has finished. We can finally go forward with reacting shall we, another thing to note you will be able to hear Merlin’s thoughts or thought of anyone present in the moment. Now let’s begin” Pascha's voice rose in the room again and this time everyone nodded.

The ground shook and the floor fell.

“Ahhhh”

Everyone screamed, some holding onto each other closing their eyes.

Everyone was still until suddenly the ground could be felt beneath their feet again, sunlight brushing their faces. Arthur opened his eyes only to find himself in the wood’s. It was the woods near Camelot.

Arthur turned to see his knights still having their eyes closed. Gwaine and Percival were hugging, and Gwen was standing beside  Lancelot with her eyes shut tight. Even Gaius and Geoffrey were holding onto each other.

“Oh, enough of this foolishness you can open your eyes”.

As Arthur spoke everyone slowly but surely opened their eyes looking around.

“The woods near Camelot” Leon spoke weirded out.

“What is going on here?” spoke Arthur while Uther screamed out magic on instinct. Morgana then spoke.

“This is not an illusion or hallucination, we are actually here? How is this possible?” spoke Morgana before turning to Pascha.

“You are correct this is a time travel spell, not possible to achieve by normal amounts of magic. You all will be able to see all that has transpired. You can touch and feel as well as taste and smell. All your senses will work, the only difference is you will have no impact on the past. No one else will be able to see you, touch you or hear you. You are here just as witnesses to events from Merlin’s perspective.

“And there he is” Iseldir spoke pointing beyond the woods.

Walking towards them was a young boy much younger then now, yet still clearly Merlin with his bag on his back.

Arthur watched Merlin walk curiously "why is he walking could'nt he have taken a horse from Ealdor?" Arthur asked

it was Gaius who spoke up "Sire you saw all of the horses in Ealdor they were all work horses not fit for traveling."

"So we follow Merlin then." Gwaine said and preceded to do so as did everyone else except the druids who had already began to follow him like faithful dogs.

Merin walked slowly, taking his time, watching all around. The walk even from not so far lasted ages until Merlin finally stood right in front of Camelot’s walls.

"Camelot can be alot to take in the first time you see it." said Gwen the others quickly agreed Uther just looking proud of the kingdom he created.

Merlin walked slowly, taking his time, watching all around. The walk even from not so far lasted ages until Merlin finally stood right in front of Camelot’s walls.

He looked happy, excited as he stepped inside the walls and walked around looking for the entrance to the palace courtyard until he finally found it. As he stepped inside trumpets were going off and a man was being dragged to the courtyard. Merlin looked up only to see the king Uther Pendragon standing on the balcony.

"Are you serious the first thing he saw upon entering the city was an execution its a wonder he did'nt leave." said Morgana disgusted Morgause standing beside her looked just as disgusted.

Lancelot frowned as well "the first thing merlin saw was someone like him being executed it really is a wonder he did'nt leave." Lancelot thought.

Merlin watched and listened as Uther gave his speech.

Morgana let out a derisive snort when Uther called himself a just king.

Arthur looked at Merlin’s eyes they were scared. Iseldir and Mordred both looked disturbed. ‘Hearing this right when he came to Camelot much have been horrifying’ thought Mordred looking towards the executioner.

Merlin watched as the king babbled on about the evils of magic and how he saved a kingdom. Iseldir, Mordred and the other druids rolled their eyes at Uthers magic is evil propaganda.

 As the speech was over  a woman screeched and all eyes turned towards her.

"That man you murdered had a family!" snarled Morgana as she glared at Uther with hatred in her eyes Uther just looked at his daughter angrily "He was a sorrceror  evil incarnate everyone knows the law." he said everyone else particularly the druids just looked at Uther disgustedly even Arthur. Gaius just looked at his old friend wondering not for the first time if he was too far gone.

“There is only one evil in this land, and it is not magic. It is you” A woman started to speak to the king full of sorrow. She was sobbing about the loss of her son to the kings arrogance and swore revenge by the end of the celebrations before disappearing.

Merlin looked disturbed but continued his search for Gaius’s chamber asking the guard for direction.

"Its weird seeing him so lost” Arthur commented walking before Merlin.

“It is my lord, but it was his first time here your highness” Gaius said looking scared for what is coming.

Merlin finally found the room and started calling for Gaius while looking around. He saw the stairs and looked up only to see Gaius and called out for him.

As he called out Gaius finally turned around, but just as he did the railing broke leaving Gaius falling towards the ground. Merlin watched, eyes turning gold and suddenly time stopped.

Uther's eyes narrowed in fury "Magic the boy has magic!" Uther snarled in a fury turning upon Gaius in his anger "you knew the boy had magic this entire time didn't you?  You've betrayed me Gaius!" he said Practically spitting in his rage. 

Gaius just closed his eyes knowing that this was just the beginning of Uther's anger toward him.

Arthur was stunned and confused he didn't know what to believe

Gwen and the knights other than Lancelot who already knew about Merlin's magic also looked hurt and confused though not too angry Leon in particular looked worried about how Arthur would react to this revelation 

Realization hit Morgana and Morgause, both looking horrified yet impressed. Morgause finally realizing what she was missing when she talked to the boy. It was impressive that he managed to avoid detection especially since he must have been the one spoiling every moment. Well she will learn of it all now, and why he would protect those who see him dead over his own kind.

To say Morgana was shocked would be an understatement.

‘He understood me, then why? Why did he do what he did? Why protect the man who wishes him to burn’.

All the moments rushed into her head. All the things she said to him, that HE said to her. He wasn’t exaggerating. But why didn’t he help her.

“WHY DIDN’T  HE TELL ME!” screamed Morgana, tears welling into her eyes.

Erik a druid looked at Merlin in awe "He can stop time." he said that ability was unheard of supposed to be impossible. Iseldir and the other druids looked to be just as in awe "Apparently he can." said Iseldir 

Arthur  was very conflicted So, this is what he was hiding all this time. Magic is evil… but Merlin has magic. When did he learn it? How many times did I talk about the evils of magic to him? Did he betray me?'

Arthur did'nt know the answer to all of his questions but he knew one thing Merlin was'nt evil he would have to wait and see to pass judgement on Merlin.

Pascha watched the king proudly she thought he would react in anger to the revelation that Merlin had magic but clearly Arthur cared dearly for merlin seeing him as a best friend.

‘Time will soon come my son, when you can stand in front of your king proudly being yourself’ she smiled looking at Merlin in the past.

Uther on the other hand was regreting ever appointing the blasted sorcerer to be his sons manservant and was determined to find a way to get him out of his kingdom.

Merlin searched around the room, trying to find something to help the men from falling to his death as his eyes noticed a bed. Thinking of what he wanted to do the magic followed his thoughts dragging the bed underneath Gaius to break his landing, this time his eyes just barely turning gold, almost unnoticeably.

Erik was again in awe 'He can control whether or not his eyes turn gold no one is supposed to be able to do that.'  he thought

Iseldir and the other druids where just as much in awe wanting to bow to their lord. Iseldir sat on the floor wondering what he was capable of this young and how much they could teach Merlin.

Morgana noticing the same whispered to her sister “Is it possible for eyes to not turn gold?”. Morgause raised her eyebrow thinking of all the spells she tried, of all the sorcerers she saw perform magic and back at Merlin.

“No, the eyes glowing is a sign the magic a person possesses has connected with natures own magic, no gold means no connection to nature so no magic should work” Morgause whispered back more and more impressed.

‘No wonder he evaded ever being suspected if he can control magic with no gold as a sign of his crime in Camelot’ she smirked in Uther’s direction.

Uther noticing all the criminals acting weirdly raised his voice.

“What is going on, its just magic, crime mind you, but nothing to be impressed about”.

“Ha, you really are a fool father” Morgana spoke hatred burning in her eyes the word father coming out like poison.

Uther quickly shut his mouth, having no explanation.

Gaius grunted as he fell on the bed, looking confused he looked up at the boy.

“What did you just do?”

Merlin was scared, he just arrived and he already showed magic. Even knowing his mother told him Gaius knew of magic and could teach him he could not tell him straight up.

“I don’t know what happened, this has nothing to do with me” Merlin murmured uncomfortably.

Gaius smiled at the Merlin in the past 'Saving me within minutes of arriving in Camelot. You really do have a good heart.' he thought

“I know what it was, I just want to know where you learned to use it” Gaius spoke voice deep, meaning to find the truth.

Merlin muttered as Gaius repeated the question asking him where he studied.

“I didn’t study it or have been taught” Merlin answered flustered and scared at being questioned.

“Are you lying to me boy” Gaius asked suspicious.

“What do you want me to say” Merlin asked not knowing what to do.

“The truth”

And the truth came spilling out.

“I was born like this” merlin answered expecting to be called a liar.

Arthur was horrified "Born with it you told me that magic had to be learned no one can be born evil!" he yelled in his fathers face.

Uther just scowled at his son and said "The boy is obviously lying magic can only be learned it is pure evil." 

Iseldir decided to speak up “Excuse me, your majesty, but that is mostly correct, but also not. People can be born with magic yet the magic itself will not appear for quite a while. It depends on the amount of magic you have been born with.” the druid said Arthur nodded at him silently thanking him for the information.

Morgana and Morgause watched the scene in confusion 'Does he really believe that being born with magic dose'nt Automatically make you evil, but he's Uthers son.' Morgana thought the expression on Morgauses face said she was thinking the same thing.

Gaius spat “This is impossible” looking away from the boy before asking for his identity.

Arthur looked at Gaius with raised eyes.

“Gaius what did you mean with impossible”.

Uther interrupted before Gaius could speak.

“It’s like I told you son, the druid lied like all with magic lie. Magic is a thought art, none can be born with it”.

Arthur looked at his father sternly. “Excuse me father, but I asked Gaius this question”.

Gaius shared a look with his past friend.

“Your highness, I meant that I have not heard of a soul who could use magic like I had seen without being taught even if they had potential for magic since they were born”. Gaius spoke calmly avoiding Uther’s stare.

“So, you can be born with magic?” Arthur asked calmly, but Gaius refused to answer.

“No harm will come to you Gaius not here, nor back in Camelot”. Arthur looked around remembering he is in Camelot and changed his wording “I meant our Camelot”.

Gaius took a breath, bowing slightly at Uther then turning to Arthur. “Yes, my lord, people can be born with magic, just can’t use it from birth.”

‘Except one man’ Gaius thought but kept it to himself. They will realize that themselves.

Merlin searched his bag and gave Gaius a letter, later explaining he is Hunith’s son Merlin. Gaius told merlin where to take his bag.

Merlin meant to follow his direction, but ask he walked turned back to Gaius.

“You won’t tell anyone about-“

Gaius looked at the fear in boy’s eyes and answered with a resigned no.

Uther scowled at Gaius for his betrayal.

“Although Merlin, I should say thank you” Gaius spoke and Merlin smiled at him a bit confused as he went to the room.

Uther sneered "Im not going into that room it reeks of sorcery." he spat not moving from where he was sitting.

"Suit yourself father we cant all fit in there anyway." said Arthur giving a shrug at his father as he the knights, gwen and the two sisters entered the small room.

this left Uther the council and the druids outside in the larger room both keeping a distance from each other.

Night fell and Merlin was getting comfortable in the room. He walked over to the window, Merlin opened the window looking at the kingdom’s view,

Gwen smiled seeing her friend happy as he took in Camelot

Gaius started to read the letter Merlin gave him, smiling slightly yet clearly being worried.

Gaius smiled far more happily he had indeed been very worried not just for his dear friends son but for him self as well. As he knew if Merlin had been discovered he would have shared his fate on the pyre. But he had come to care for merlin like a son and would gladly do it all over again.

Quickly the scene changed startling everyone from their relaxation, some where even sleeping as did Merlin from the illusion.

Uther recognized the scene as he saw himself walking to Morgana.

“Morgana what is this, why are you not joining us at the feast” Uther spoke as Morgana looked at him sad about the whole thing, pitying the mother while Uther berated his justice to her. Ordering her to attend at the end before he left. "You know the more brutal you are the more enemies you'll create Morgana called after him as he left.

Gwaine snorted at this "pot meet kettle." he whispered to Percival as they both chuckled Arthur who heard them both couldn't really blame them they had only knew her as the cruel, cold woman she was now. Not the kind warm, Compassionate woman she used to be.

“And then you wondered why I betrayed you and Camelot, if this is what happened when I went against Uther, why I did not trust you, Arthur. I still wonder how Merlin was able to” Morgana said looking disgusted.

Uther looked heartbroken at his daughter Arthur was also feeling hurt that his sister didn't trust him enough but was unable to believe it was all his fault.

The scene changed again and now they were in the forest, Uther recognizing lady Helen, remembering the incident which will take place.

“What is going on with changing locations” Arthur asked looking at Pasha.

“We are following the events. Mostly you will see things from Merlin’s perspective, but other events are also important. Mostly it will be about the people attacking Camelot, so you will see who it was that was actually at faut. It is made so you will know the full story not just everything Merlin knew.” Pasha answered.

In the forest lady Helen was singing in her tent, until she heard a sound. She turned around searching for the sound finding nothing, calling for her guard to ask if everything is fine. As the guard leaves, she is murdered by the old woman who swore revenge on Uther. The woman’s face changing to the image of Lady Helen.

"See this is why I say it is evil Arthur!" said Uther

"This is your fault you killed her son!" snarled Morgana

'Yes Morgana killing one innocent absolutely justifies taking the life of another innocent life.' Arthur thought knowing the old Morgana would have never thought that.

“Merlin” called a voice disturbing Merlin’s rest.

Arthur and the knights jumped to attention reaching for their weapons which except for Arthurs wasn't there at the sound of the voice.

Uther on the other hand looked like he recognized the voice he had been the one who had imprisoned the dragon after all.

Merlin wakes looking around the room, yet not commenting. He stands from his bed going to Gaius who gives him something to eat. As Gaius walks past Merlin he knocks over the water on purpose watching as Merlin stops the water in midair, before looking at Gaius and dropping it.

“You tested him” Geoffrey looked at his friend as he spoke and looked in wander.

“I wanted to see if he would do it with no spell again, as I was not sure”.

Gaius asked Merlin exactly what Gaius answered to Geoffrey just now.

“I don’t know any spells” Merlin defended leaving Gaius with more questions than answers.

“Well, we better keep you out of trouble” Gaius answers as Marlin cleans the water which fell on the floor.

Gwen chuckled " Well we both know how that went." she said smirking at her husband remembering their encounter.

Arthur looked  Embarrassed at being reminded about that encounter and how he acted back then.

Gaius gives Merlin two concoctions to take to two people, asking him to watch that sir Owen doesn’t take all at once, Merlin being Merlin does as he is told taking the two potions, but being too late to explain to Sir Owen he shouldn’t drink all of it.

Arthur and Gwaine start to laugh at Merlin while Gaius just holds his head but smiles slightly at merlin’s familiar antics.

The scene changes and they are in the courtyard. Arthur noticing the change promptly shuts up looking at his knights.

“Don’t judge me here, I was a bit of a prat, but its in the past” Arthur says to his men and Gwen just chuckles and pats her husband's hand  noticing past Arthur in the courtyard.

Gwaine's eyes narrow 'I wonder if he used to be like all the other nobles.' he thought

Merlin is walking through the courtyard noticing the commotion. Stopping he sees a young prince Arthur teasing a servant, making him run with a target as he throws his daggers.

Gwaine scowls “It seems you really were a prat”. he said with an edge to his voice'yep just like every other noble' Gwaine thought 

Gwen's eyes narrowed slightly at Gwaine not liking the tone in which he spoke "Yes he was but like he said he's not like that anymore." she said

Elyan sensing his sisters anger decided to defuse the tension “How much do you wanna bet that Merlin will stand up to him” Elyan teases and Gwaine just looks at him “This will be no bet, we know its coming” Gwaine says as they all start to laugh except Arthur who is covering his face with his hands.

The servant keeps running with the shield as Merlin looks at the prince horrified. Gwen is also looking at the scene from above looking disapprovingly at the prince. As Arthur’s dagger hits the target again the servant drops the shield which goes tumbling on the floor right to Merlin’s feet, Merlin steps on the shield completely stopping it.

“Here we go” Elyan said, eyes shining nearly as bright as Gwaine’s.

The council scowls “Like he will do anything to the prince”.

Arthur sinks to the floor as the knight’s snicker at the stupidness of the council.

“Hi, come on this is enough” Merlin says as he looks at the prince.

Arthur slowly turns around “What?” he says confused on who would dare to speak to a knight that way.

“You’ve had your fun my friend” Merlin smiles.

“Do I know you?” says the prince as he is stepping towards Merlin.

“No, I’m Merlin” he offers his hand

“This is how you two met, oh this is hilarious” Gwaine is already laughing.

“So, I don’t know you” says Arthur mockingly as Merlin answers calmly a no.

“Yet you called me friend” he smirks.

“Oh, here it comes” Elyan says as he is on his toes.

“Yeah, that was my mistake, I’ve never had a friend who can be such an ass”.

Gwaine and Percival fell to the ground laughing hysterically , Lancelot looked proud that Merlin had stood up to the prince as Leon looked speechless.

Gwen laughs with them remembering watching this and Arthur is trying to think on how to bury himself.

Mordred who was as close to Merlin as possible looked at Merlin and Arthur scandalized.

‘This is how they met?’ Mordred just stared at the two of them.

Morgana snickered at the scene with Morgause following, both surprised at the insolence, Morgana looked even a bit proud that someone stood up to him like that.

Uther and the council looked like they were just punched. Uther especially looked like he was the one insulted.

“Or I one who could be so stupid” Arthur said to Merlin teasing him further.

Arthur scanned him before saying “Tell me Merlin, do you know how to walk on your knees”

Gwaine froze "Were you hitting on Merlin just now queenie?" he asked Arthur teasingly

Arthur just looked at Gwaine weirdly "No Gwaine i was not hitting on Merlin. I did not then nor now feel that way about Merlin that would be like hitting on my sister!" he said trying to ignore all the times he had Practically drooled over Morgana before he fell for Guinevere.

No” Merlin  “Would you like me to help you” Arthur responded looking intrigued, he usually wouldn’t do this, but the commoner was testing his patience, he wanted to see how far he would be willing to go. It’s not everyday that a commoner picks a fight with a prince.

"I wouldn't if I were you." Merlin said "Why what are you going to do to me?" Arthur asked "You have no idea." Merlin said

“Be my guest” Arthur kept teasing wanting to see how the man would react. He held his arm’s open invitingly “Come on!” he repeated frustrating the servant who had finally thrown a punch. The prince being a knight, well he saw it coming, quickly blocking the attack throwing another threat “I’ll have you thrown in jail for that”.

Merlin looked at the prince expecting a bluff “Who do you think you are? The king”.

“No, I’m his son Arthur” he whispered in Merlin’s ear closing the distance before getting him on the floor.

“Damn, you two didn’t have a nice start” Percival said .

“No, far from it in fact” Arthur took a breath, finally happy it was over… for a while anyway.

“How could you allow this to go on for so long! You were giving an example that NOBLES could be stood upon and disagreed with” Uther spat, “And why didn’t you inform me of this, I would not have made him your servant, I would have him banished at the spot”.

“Father, I was young, and I think you are wrong, I am still glad Merlin stayed. I did not wish to see him banded after he saved my life, so I have not said a word, I meant to fire him”.

Gwaine smirked “And how did that go?”.

Arthur just looked at him and Gwaine quickly gave up, Lance smiled and patted Gwaine on the back.

Gwen smirked and Morgana was finally able to relax.

‘Why am I laughing at them? They would have me dead’ she looked up at the sky of Camelot she hasn’t seen so bright in quite a while. ‘Guess it brings back memories’. Morgause looked at her sister conflicted.

Pasha appeared before them.

“Do not make any decisions left, there is much to see, much to understand” she looked at Morgause “For both of you” Pasha smiled before going to her son’s side, she will always be near him, if she can, be it past, present or future.

‘I wish all of us could be together’. Merlin's voice said to Pasha

The scene changed as the spectators watched Merlin be walked to prison.

“Emrys in jail the first time he arrived” Mordred looked like he would faint. Druid’s who were watching the boy be thrown in jail were stooped. This is so wrong. Their meeting should be stuff of legends not this.

Out before the palace the lady Helen has arrived, as she walked into the palace the reflection showed he true identity, but no one had seen it then. She walked right up to Uther bowing slightly before him. Uther looked disturbed ‘How could I not sense the evil that is magic’. Both of them exchanging pleasantries as the night faded into day.

"Why does time move so fast here?" Arthur asked Pasha trying to get answers from her.

“Because there is much going to be happening in the days we do watch, which is not every day, but there is much to cover. We see just the important events of the days something happened, no worries as you will not get tired through all of this as long as you eat and drink”.

“Merlin, Merlin” a voice spoke "Again with this voice?" Arthur said looking annoyed that this voice wouldn't let his friend sleep. Merlin jumped looking around the cell not even noticing the footsteps approaching, until he heard the cell door opened with Gaius bursting in “You never cease to amaze me” Gaius spoke and Merlin looked away ashamed. “The one thing you should be doing is keeping your head down, and what do you do? You behave like an idiot”.

"You would think you would be used to that by now Gaius." teased Arthur 

Gaius chuckled slightly "Indeed i somewhat am sire."

"As am I!" the knights and Gwen said.

Morgana didn’t know what to think, but one thing was for sure. Merlin has acted like an idiot, a troublesome one, but an idiot none the less. This hasn’t changed wherever they were friends or enemies, she smiled to herself. ‘Maybe Merlin didn’t change, but I did’.

Gaius told Merlin he pulled a few strings to get him released, before adding there was a price to be paid. Merlin looked at Gaius confusedly before being taken to the stocks.

“Guess our first meeting is coming up” Gwen said looking nervous.

While Merlin was laughing at the experience of being at the stocks Gwen walked closer stopping right before Merlin introducing herself.

Merlin being awkward gave her his name and offered a hand even as he was, Gwen smiled at the situation, Gwen telling Merlin how impressed she was with him.

“I could beat him” said Merlin confident, Arthur rolled his eyes 'Sure you could Merlin' Arthur thought

“Really, cuss you don’t look like one of these big muscly kind of fellows” Gwen said, merlin just looked at her smiling “Thanks”.

Elyan looked at his sister “Really you had it bad.”, Gwen blushed.

“No, no, I’m sure your stronger then you look” Merlin looking puzzled as Gwen continued “It’s just Arthurs one of these real rough, tough save the world kind of men”.

“Thank you, Gwen, I did not know you felt this way about me” Arthur smirked happy he wasn’t the one being teases… for a while.

Elyan widened his stare “Really??”

Gwen looked away, clearly red.

“And well you don’t look like that”.

“Wow, that was hard my lady. Give the guy some slack” Gwaine laughed.

Merlin ushered her closer whispering “I’m in disguise”.

"Look at that Gwen he was flirting back at you." Elyan teased his sister which earned him a swat on the arm.

Gwen laughed with Merlin before escaping as the kids prepared their ammunition to shoot at Merlin.

Finally, the punishment was over and he returned to the physicians chambers, everyone just trailing after him. Knights a very close distance wanting to protect Merlin even if they knew they couldn’t, Mordred behind them, Uther keeping the distance as far as he could without being pulled by the force that kept them close to the character important.

“I know your still angry with me” Merlin started as he ate with Gaius. “I promised your mother I would look after you. What did your mother say about your power’s” Gaius questioned.

‘Now this I would like to hear’ Morgause looked interested at Merlin.

Merlin smiled at his food “She said I was special”.

“You are, the likes of which I had never seen”.

Uther froze and looked at Gaius.

‘This can’t be possible, Gaius and I knew multiple sorcerers Nimueh among them. Is he saying they don’t compare to this BOY’. Uther now looked furious.

‘I need to get the boy out of MY KINGDOM’.

“This is true, none can compare to him” Iseldir said proudly looking at young Emrys.

Leon and Arthur tensed.

“What is he capable of?” Arthur asked carefully.

Before anyone could answer Mocha joined “I’m afraid this is not for disclosure yet, you will see his capabilities soon”.

Morgana and Morgause smiled and Uther prepared.

 “What do you mean” Merlin inqured looking at Gaius.

“Well magic, requires spell, incantations. What I saw you do was elemental, instinctive”.

“What is the point if it cannot be used” Merlin said sadly.

Morgana looked wistfully at Merlin 'i feel the same way he really did understand the way i felt.' Morgana thought

Merlin being curious continued to dig questioning Uther’s intentions. Gaius used to telling this story started “Uther banned such practices as the people used it for a wrong end at that time and it threw the natural order into chaos, Uther made it his mission to destroy everything, even the dragons”.

“Ha, such a convincing lie for my father, It makes him into a hero” Morgana laughed.

“How dare you!” Uther stood up “I gave everything I had to rebuild this kingdom from destruction because of magic”. “No, you are a hypocrite, we both know that you just chased some fictional revenge” Morgana screamed. Uther looked at her sad “I gave everything for this kingdom and order”.

…

“Then why did magic make Merlin” Mordred said looking at the previous king.

“Made?  What nonsense are you talking about” Uther questioned looking at the druid boy together with everyone. Morgana looked at Mordred looking confused. Gaius looking furiously at him.

Mordred remembering that is not for them to know stopped and turned to Merlin and Gaius.

“There was one dragon he chose, not to kill. Make it an example. He imprisoned it deep under the palace, where no one can free it”.

"We all saw what happened because of that." Arthur said looking disappointedly at his father

Uther was once again glaring at Gaius "You told him about the dragon!"

"He asked and he had a right to know he was a magic user in camelot." said Gaius

"He had no right to know and you should have turned him over to be burned the second you realized he had magic!" Uther roared at Gaius who turned away from Uther with tears in his eyes.

“Now take this to lady Helen for her voice” Gaius said Merlin taking the potions and going on a search. Merlin arrived in her bedroom putting the potion on the table as she wasn’t in the room, but as he put it there something caught his eye, a straw doll. Merlin touched it as, but quickly became more interested in a book next to the doll. He examined the book, but had no time as he heard lady Helen approaching. Merlin gave her the potion and left immediately after going to the town.

‘Here we go again’ Arthur sighed.

Merlin walked past Arthur which prompted the prince to make fun of him.

“How’s your knee walking coming along” Artur teased, but Merlin just continued to walk. “Oh don’t run away”.

Arthur again looked Embarrassed at his actions.

“From you” Merlin threw back. Prince was having fun so he wouldn’t stop anytime soon. “Thank god, I thought you were deaf as well as dumb”. Merlin turned around looking at him “Look, I told you you’re an ass, I just didn’t realize you were a royal one”, Arthur looked shocked yet amused.

Everyone started to laugh.

“He got you there” Gwaine said between his laughter. Even Arthur couldn’t resist a smile gracing his lips at this.

Arthur span around looking at the knights with him “Oh, what are you going to do. Get your daddies men to protect you."  Uther looked enraged while Morgana and Morgause looked amused.

Arthur laughed “I could take you apart with one blow”, Merlin looked unimpressed “I could take you apart with less then that.”

Arthur again rolled his eyes at this before a thought occured to him 'He didn't use magic during our fight did he?" he thought now knowing what to look for resolved to look for it during their fight.

You sure” Arthur asked, Merlin just took off his jacket and Arthur laughed.

“You are really that oblivious?” Gwaine said looking at the prince with wide eyes, Arthur just looked at Gwaine with raised eyebrows.

“Answer is yes” Gwaine said “Good to know”.

“I’m warning you, I was trained to kill since birth” Arthur says spinning the mace in his hand.

‘Show off’ Merlin thinks, Arthur looks offended “I am not”.

“And how long have you been training to be a prat” Merlin asks innocently.

“Ha, got him” Elyan laughs.

Arthur laughs a bit “You can’t address me like this”

Merlin quickly adapts his posture, smiling gently “I’m sorry, how long have you been training to be a prat, my lord” Merlin makes a slight bow.

“Merlin” Lance sighs impressed at the insolence of his best friend.

Gwaine falls to the floor as does Elyan, Morgana again looking impressed before shooing the expression.

Uther and the council stare menacingly, Uther appreciating everything he ever did to the boy.

Druids with Mordred just stare at Emrys, THE EMRYS fighting with the once and future king.

Mordred smiles after a minute after all it is a bond they have.

Arthur threw Merlin a mace with Merlin catching it very slopy. Clearly showing he has no idea what he is doing. They start to fight which attracts a crowd of people. Merlin runs through the Market avoiding the mace. Merlin falls to the ground Arthur a few steps in front threatening him, Merlin uses magic, discreetly without his eyes turning gold gaining the advantage. Arthur ends on the floor after a few magic tricks before noticing Gaius and stopping immediately. Arthur smacks Merlin with a broom.

“Wow, Gaius you made him lose” Gwaine says. “Good show though”.

“That was magic, but why didn’t his eyes shine gold” Arthur says. “This was definitely magic, yet his eyes weren’t gold”.

Gaius quickly speaks up “You are correct, Merlin can avoid his eyes turning gold. It’s something special and I do not think anyone else can do this.”

Arthur looks at the druids who nod along, even Morgana and Morgause nod slightly before looking at Merlin with wander all over again.

“This is not important, I am more interested in what you did with Merlin” Gwaine says before turning to Merlin still on the floor while guards are dragging him up”

“Wait, let him go” Arthur says looking at Merlin with amusement “He may be an idiot, but he is a brave one”.

Gwen looked surprised that Arthur had let Merlin go as easily as he had knowing how much of a bully he was back then.

Lancelot would have to agree with Arthurs assessment as would the other knights.

“There’s something about you Merlin. I can’t quite put a finger on it” the prince looks puzzled at why he is so interested in him.

‘Well, I doubt I will see him again’ Arthur leaves with his knights.

'Well I was wrong their" thought Arthur

Uther looked at this scene with disgust. Not only did the boy make a fool of his son and him, but he also used magic and got away scoot free.

‘The insolence’.

Merlin goes back with Gaius being berated for his behavior, yelling at each other until Merlin blows up “If I can’t use magic, then what have I got” Merlin looks straight into Gaius’s eyes “I’m just a nobody and I always will be. If I can’t use magic, I might as well die” Merlin said before rushing to his room.

Arthur’s heart broke.

‘He can’t think that, can he. It’s Merlin, his friend, his servant, his best friend Merlin’ tears flow down his face.

Knights all look heartbroken, Gwaine punching one of the walls nearby, Gwen crying holding onto Elyan.

Morgana feels something move in her chest.

‘Sympathy, it’s been a while since I felt that’ she says looking at the closed door to Merlin’s room. ‘I feel the same now, magic is just who we are none can change it’ she looks at Uther who is grinning as the servant new his place, Morgana’s eyes light in rage ‘and no one should be able to change it’.

Mordred knew Emrys didn’t have high self-esteem, but this was more then he ever imagined, but he knew the feeling, as he had to hide the magic to the king and the knights. It hurts to hide, yet he can’t even imagine not having magic. It would hurt.

Gaius comes to his room ordering Merlin to take his shirt off and he does.

Arthur winces as he feels the knights, and Gwens eyes on him 'I didn't mean to hurt him that badly.' Arthur thought to himself 

Morgause noticed Morgana staring at the shirtless Merlin when Morgana noticed this she averted her gaze.

“I’m not a monster, am I?” Merlin asks almost desperately, needing answers which Gaius doesn’t have.

Everyone’s heart breaks again falling straight out of trance they have been in since of Merlin’s bosy back to sadness.

Morgana remembers feeling like this. ‘Maybe this can show me something after all’.

“Merlin, Merlin” he hears a voice call. Merlin sits up deciding to follow it. Sneaking out of the chambers (not before he covers Gaius with a blanket) he ends up in the dungeons finding an entrance to a staircase leading in a cave.

Uther and the council jump up knowing exactly where merlin is going "No stay away from there!" Uther yells as if merlin could hear him which of course he couldn't.

Merlin arrives at the edge of the cave and hears a voice chuckling, Uther takes a deep breath knowing what he will see as does Gaius, Council members have stayed just in viewing distance as they cannot go further back.

“Where are you” Merlin says into the cave just as a dragon flies into the air “Here” he says. Arthur looks at the dragon remembering the events. ‘So, he was here, locked’. Leon jumps back as he sees the dragon remembering the battle better then Arthur.

Merlin and the dragon study each other. Merlin looking curiously at him as the dragon starts to speak “How small you are for such a great destiny.”

“Great just something Merlin needs to hear” Morgana scowls at the dragon, knowing manipulation at a glance.

“Why, what do you mean, what destiny?”

“You’re gift Merlin, was given to you for a reason” the dragon reveals.

“So, there is a reason “Merlin’s eyes sparkle a goldish color, excited he finally may have a reason to use this power.

“Hook, line and sinker” Morgana says watching the dragon.

“Arthur is the once and future king, who will unite the land of Albion” Merlin looks at him confused what Arthur has to do with this “Right”.

“But he faces many threats from friend”, Morgana scowls at the dragon suspecting this was the beginning of merlins mistrust of her “And foe alike” Morgause looks at the dragon no emotion on her face

“I don’t see what that has to do with me”

Gwen chuckled at her husband "You can tell the two of you didn't get along at first. Merlins usually the first one to act when theirs just the possibility of you being in danger." she told him Arthur just looked at the dragon in wonder.

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

‘What nonsense, my son the once and future king of Albion? He dragon must have lost his mind in the cave” Uther scowls.

'Is this why Merlin is always around me because of some grand destiny!' Arthur thinks furiously to himself before he thinks to himself his inner voice sounding alot like merlin 'Do you really think Merlin would stick around this long getting no credit just because a dragon said something about a grand destiny. No merlin wouldn't do that it must be some other reason' Arthur thought.

“No, no you’ve got this wrong” he looks at the dragon like he is insane. Him and Arthur yeah no way.

Arthur looks very offended as the knights and Gwen snicker as does Morgana.

“There is no right or wrong, only what is and what isn’t”

“I’m serious if anyone wants to go and kill him, they can go ahead in fact I’ll give them a hand” he says nonchalantly.

Knights starts chuckling except Gwaine who is dying, Gwen is holding her laughter, Arthur looks at him insulted, Gaius giving him his signature look.

“Yeah right, anyone within Arthur’s reach is a potential threat” Morgana said rolling her eyes.

“That’s not true” Arthur says shocked she even suggested it, Morgana just raises her eyebrow and looks away.

‘Maybe I could try my luck’ comes across her mind, but she doubts she would be allowed to watch if she tried.

“None of us can chose our destiny Merlin, and none of us can escape it”.

“No, no way no, there much be another Arthur cause this one is an idiot”, Arthur is just over it, but still “Merlin!!”.

“Perhaps it’s your destiny to change that” Arthur looks at the dragon insulted.

“He changed you for the best sire” Leon says chuckling. Even Leon betrayed him now, great.

Gwen also chuckles at this but its for a different reason than Leon "Oh really Sir Leon how did Merlin do that do you think Arthur was a complete prat 24/7? Do you think Arthur and Morgana would have been as close as they were if that were the case? No of course they wouldn't have. At most Merlin just gave Arthur permission to be the kind empathic person he was always capable of being. So no Sir Leon Merlin didn't change Arthur at least not in the way you mean and if merlin were here he would agree with me.

Arthur looked at Gwen in gratitude for the faith she had in him.

The great dragon took flight as merlin screamed after him.

Gaius wakes him up a few hours later, telling him to bring him some herbs while also getting the potion for nightmares to Morgana. Merlin takes the potion and leaves.

Merlin walks in the room without knocking watching as lady Morgana is getting prepared while she thinks she is talking to Gwen, insulting Arthur You know, I've been thinking about Arthur. I wouldn't touch him with a lance pole. Pass me that dress, will you Gwen?" said Morgana

"I wouldn't touch you with a lance pole either." Arthur informed Morgana

Merlin being in the room hands Morgana her dress Morgana expecting Gwen to talk he just makes a sound, faking a woman’s voice as he holds Morgana’s cape to cover himself.

“I need some help with this fastening” Morgana says and Merlin does not know what to do just as Gwen comes in, Merlin sighs of relief.

“What a gentleman, he did not peek even once” Morgana says looking at Arthur who scowls “Yeah right”.

“I remember that he was so glad I came”

“Much better then Gwaine, at least” Arthur says.

“Hey, not fair” Gwaine screams.

“And we are in ‘Helen’s room’ now” Arthur says looking around, seeing the mirror still covered.

A servant arrives to present lady Helen fruit basket. While making small talk the servant uncovers the mirror revealing the true identity of lady Hellen so the sorceress kills her.

“See Arthur this is why magic is evil” Uther points at the scene in front of them.

“That is your fault for killing her son” Morgana screams.

“Enough, the feast is starting” Arthur says looking around to another change in scenery.

Feast is starting and people have gathered making small talk and enjoying themselves. Merlin arrives with Gaius stand the middle. He looks at the prince who catches his attention while Arthur looks at Morgana who enters the room.

“God have mercy” Arthur says as he looks at her.

Arthur flushes. “This was before I knew you were my sister and the dress was more gorgeous than the person” Arthur explains.

Morgana Just smirked "Wouldn't touch me with a lance huh? It sure seems like you would have dear brother." she teases him 

Arthur felt himself flush even further as everyone laughed.

Arthur walks to Morgana and as Merlin watches unable to take his eyes off Morgana.

Gwen steps to Merlin, making small talk, hoping Morgana will one day be queen. “I don’t wanna be her, who would want to marry Arthur” Gwen scowls

"Oh really Gwen should i be expecting a divorce?" Arthur says teasing Gwen who just kisses him on the cheek.

“Come on Gwen, I thought you liked all there rough, tough save the world kin of people” Merlin teases.

“No, I much prefer ordinary men like you”.

“Oh, believe me Gwen I’m not ordinary”.

Gwen gets flustered so she tries to correct herself “No I didn’t mean you, I just meant I like much more ordinary men, like you”

“Good job Gwen you confused him” Elyan says and Gwen punches him in the arm.

“Thanks” Merlin says before they both turn around. Trumpets start to sing as King Uther walks into the room. Uther introduces lady Helen to everyone and she enters the room going to the dais. As she starts to sing it begins to make everyone fall slowly asleep. Merlin looks around as cogwebs ingulf everyone. Merlin watches as Helena draws a dagger and points it at prince Arthur. Merlin’s eyes flash a golden color as he makes the chandelier fall on top of her.

 Uther looks stunned “So this is how he swindled his way into my kingdom”.

The court begins to awaken, but as her final act the witch throws the dagger towards Arthur. Merlin stares at the witch before he makes a run towards the prince pushing him out of the way, the dagger implanting himself in the throne.

“So, this is how it played out” Morgana says impressed he managed all that, but she was unsure of why. Why did Merlin save someone who he had a fight with not long past.

‘I will never figure you out will I Merlin” were the thoughts of two people. Morgana who is surprised by Merlin’s selflessness and Arthur who always gets surprised by Merlin.

Uther and Arthur stare at Merlin in shock.

“You saved my boy’s life. A debt must be repaired” Uther said, but Merlin really didn’t want anything so he just murmured “Oh, well…”

“Don’t be so modest you shall be rewarded.”

Merlin really wanted to get away from Uther so he tried to be respectful “No, honestly, you don’t have to your highness”, but once Uther makes his mind there is no stopping him “No absolutely. This merits something quite special.

Merlin saw there was no arguing, but he still tried “Well...”

“You shall be rewarded a position in the royal household. You shall be Prince Arthur’s manservant” Uther announced. The court claps while Arthur and merlin stare at each other in disgust.

“This is how he became your servant! “Mordred yells, surprised that Emrys saved him, even more so became so loyal to him.

Arthur looks to the floor “Yes I remember it as clear as day.”

“As do I, it was a spectacle” Morgana unhelpfully added.

“Never knew him meeting you would be worse then when you meet me” Gwaine said laughing, Arthur adding “That was Merlin’s fault.

As Gaius and Merlin return to the book Gaius approves of using magic to save others giving Merlin the book of magic before Merlin runs to his duties as a manservant.

Pasha looked at everyone. “Well, this is the first important day finished.

Gwaine looked around “Guess he had the most eventful few day out of any of us when we arrived in Camelot, like standing up to the prince”

Arthur sighed “I know I was an ass to him for weeks after we meet”.

“Did you ever tell him that” Gwen said looking at Arthur.

Arthur looked back at her. “I don’t think so”. Gwen just smilled “Guess you should”.

“Yes I should”. Arthur said

Chapter Text

Pasha looked around, Morgana was looking impressed, but also a bit hurt, Arthur having the same hurt in his eyes, but at least he didn’t look like he was too angry at Merlin.

‘So, my son is it time yet’ Pasha said looking at the sky of Camelot.

A voice rang in Pasha’s head “Not yet, give it time mother, I will reveal myself soon, although Lance knows already, he is one of my friends after all.”

‘Then so it will be, my son. I hope they make a good decision.’

“I as well, I’m sorry mother, I have to go, this is … tiring.”

Pasha smiled slightly before turning her face to the group.

‘Ha, all of them are still so split?’ Pasha looked to see multiple groups. The knights being with their King, the council being near their past king, Druids together and the sister’s together with Agravaine just being at the back. Mordred looked the most split, not knowing if he should be with the knights or with the druids.

Arthur turned to Pasha beginning to speak “How many of these event’s will we see?”

“Quite a lot my king, Merlin and you had a lot of adventures and it’s only fair for all of you to know all that he did for Camelot,” Pasha said looking sternly at one Uther Pendragon.

Uther scowled.

“Well than, if you have nothing else for me to ask let us continue.”

The scene began to change again, Arthur looked around, not recognizing the place.

“Where is this?” Arthur asked looking at some kind of shop.

Gwaine spoke after looking around “This queenie is a place called a shop, more specifically a magic kind of shop. They are forbidden in Camelot, but there is a lot of them around other kingdoms”.

They were beginning to be pulled along as a man walked to the counter.

Arthur recognized the man "Isn't this the man I fought in the tournament with the snakes." he said everyone but Leon, Gwen, Uther, Morgana, and Gaius looked confused as to what Arthur was talking about.

“I understand you have a shield for me,” the man spoke. The man stepped away getting the shield, the man following after. The shopkeeper held a shield in his hand’s and began to speak “With your sword skills and this shield, I guarantee you will win,” the man smirked.

Arthur scowled remembering the knights name "Valiant the only reason he made it so far into the tournament was because of that shield. His swordmanship and footwork was poor." Arthur said which caused the other knights to snort in amusement.

Valiant looked at the shopkeeper asking him to show him how it works. The man smirked and started to incarnate at the shield, after he finished the snakes came out.

Valiant jumped away, Arthur who stood the closest to the knight walked away from him slightly, remembering what happened at the tournament.

“What is this sorcery!” Uther yelled watching the knight.

“It’s an artifact which contains incarnated snakes, who appear as one speaks the incarnation ,no magic power needed of the user” Morgana spoke looking bored at such useless magic.

The shopkeeper gave Valiant the shield and started to laugh as Valiant smilled.

“Kill him.” Valiant spoke and snakes took a bite, the shopkeeper falling to the ground dead.

Arthur looked at Valiant disturbed. Gwen turned away from them.

“This is why, most sorcerers chose to stay far away from people. Most of those who seek out sorcery these days are the arrogant types who would do anything to succeed, and this!” Morgause pointed at the dead shopkeeper “Is the result of such trust.” Morgause looked down feeling sorry for the man.

‘He just wanted to use his magic ability for something to make him money, such a waste’ Morgause thought knowing he enchanted the shield himself.

Arthur looked conflicted at the scene, Uther scowling looking at his son.

Valiant walked away. Soon seen riding in his knight’s outfit, the shield in hand coming to Camelot.

“I’m here for the tournament, Knight Valiant of the Western Isles.”

“Welcome to the tournament.”

"Well that was all too easy wasn't it." said Lancelot 

"Any one was allowed to enter the tournament as long as they could prove they were of noble birth. We didn't search them for magic artifacts which we wouldn't recognize anyway." said Arthur

"So Merlin will be left to deal with it?" Morgause asked her sister "Probably all I know is the snakes came out of the shield during Valiants fight with Arthur though Valiant looked surprised  when it happened." Morgana said

'Then I guess will have to see then." Morgause said

The scenery changed again, now showing Arthur and merlin outside the castle, with merlin holding a sword.

The knights and Gwen looked alarmed "Arthur why does Merlin have a sword?" Gwen asked her husband 

"He could have hurt either you or himself!" Gwaine added on as he and the other knights watched the scene in disappointment 

"He was helping me train for the tournament as is his job." Arthur said trying to figure out why the knights were upset and what he did wrong.

“Ready?”

“Would it make any difference if I said no” Merlin looked at the prince clearly uncomfortable

everyone who liked Merlin scowled.

“Not really.” The prince said spinning his sword.

‘Show off!’ Merlin thought, but got into a fighting position.  

“I am NOT a showoff!” Arthur said

“Body, shield, body, shield,” Arthur spoke while swinging his blade, giving Merlin instructions.

"Your being too hard on him Arthur." said Gwen

"What do you mean? This is the usual I didn't know he was that useless then." Arthur said 

"Sire Merlin came from a farming village unused to combat he had never learned how to use a sword or armor this was probably his first time using either." Said Gaius

"It's true dear the only reason he knew where all the armor pieces went was because I taught him." said Gwen

"Even him being able to do this much is quite impressive." said Gaius watching the fighting

Arthur looked apologetic 'His first time using a sword or armor it actually is fairly impressive' Arthur thought " I really was an ass to him back then I thought he was just complaining to complain." Arthur said

' At least he can admit he was an ass to Merlin.' Gwen thought a thought shared by all the knights.

“Shield, head, head!” Arthur said hitting him on the helmet.

“Come on Merlin, you’re not even trying,” Arthur said continuing his barrage of attacks. ‘I can see why he apologized, this is way too much for first time, especially with him complaining constantly,’ Gwaine thought. Honestly the apology was the only thing holding him back from screaming at the princess, now if only he can say it to Merlin later.

The attacks continued, each getting worse with the prince getting annoyed.

“Come on Merlin, I’ve got a tournament to win,” he mocked annoyed.

“Can we stop now, please.

Arthur didn’t listen continuing his attack, screaming his next move, while Merlin got continuesly hit.”

"Thats a bit much to expect from someone who wasn't trained as a knight don't you think husband." said Gwen

"Yeah it is but at the time I was only thinking about winning the tournament." said Arthur Gwen knowing why changed her gaze to Uther who was glaring at the Incompetence Morgana who also knew was glaring at her father.

Merlin finally fell to the floor after a particular hit on the head.

Arthur looked at him impressed “You’re braver than you look,” he smiled.

Morgana's Leon and Gwen's eyes widened 

"I wasn't aware you knew how to compliment someone at the time dear brother. What made him so special?" Morgana asked with a smirk on her lips

"I was perfectly capable of giving compliments and I found his actions brave." said Arthur

“Is it over” Merlin looked almost pleadingly…almost.

“This was just a warm up,” to Merlin’s eyes that was a threat especially with the was he was looking at him.

“How’s your mace work coming along,” Arthur smirked, Merlin just gave up.

“Wow, brutal princess.”

“Right, it’s worse then with us at some points.” Elyan was honestly shocked Merlin stook around for as long as he did.

“I would definitely left,” Percival said looking at Merlin like he was a saint.

‘How does Merlin have so much faith in the king if he did all of that to him, second day,’ both Mordred and Morgana were having these thoughts.

‘There really is something about him, but what?’ Morgause looked questionably at the boy.

The scene changed bringing them to physician’s quarters, Merlin dropping his armor as he walked,

 Gaius  chuckled while looking at Merlin, “So how was you’re first day as Arthur’s servant”.

Merlin looked out of it. “Do you hear clanging” he said hitting his head slightly.

“Omg how did he stick with you this long is a miracle” Leon said looking at the boy with newfound respect. Not that he didn’t respect him now, but this was something else. ‘IT WAS HIS FIRST DAY!’

“I agree,” Morgana said, eyes blown open.

Back in the room Merlin finally started to complain, while Gaius massaged his back.

“It was horrible and I’ve still got to learn all about tournaments etiquette by the morning

'He really wasn't going to quit' Arthur thought

'It really is amazing that Merlin wasn't going to quit after everything Arthur put him through' thought Lancelot

"Merlin failed all Etiquette." said Gwaine trying to diffuse the tension which worked causing everyone to chuckle.

Merlin started to chant, a book came to his side opening at the right page.

“Damn sorcerer!” Uther spat, hatred visible in his eyes

Gaius hit Merlin’s head starting to give him a lecture. 

Morgana glared at Gaius "Merlin has every right to use his magic its painful to hold it in all the time." Morgana screamed at Gaius who looked regretful.

“If I could feel my arms I’d pick up the book myself,” merlin argued.

“Never mind you’re arms, what will I do if you get caught.”

“What would you do?”

Morgana frowned 'He better not say he would turn him in.' Morgana thought suprised that she was so protective of someone who had lied to her poisoned her betrayed her

Morgause was also awaiting Gaius's answer 'Could he be the reason he stayed.' she thought

Gaius took a deep breath, “You just make sure it doesn’t happen for both our sakes.”

“Before anyone can ask I would have said I used magic, I’d protect him” Gaius said looking at his past friend, his past king.

Uther was beyond "Its bad enough you betrayed me by not turning the boy over to be burned the second you realized he had magic. But that you would betray me by protecting him your lucky i'm no longer king because you and the boy would both burn at the stake." he declared 

"Then its a good thing i'm the king father. Gaius didn't betray either one of us neither Merlin nor Morgana should have had to fear death just because of something they were born with." Arthur said taking a step towards his father.

Gwen looked on proud of Arthur that was the man she had fell in love with

Morgana's eyes snapped to Arthur during his speech ' But Arthur hates magic he's said so multiple times in the past right?' she thought.

“Ow” Merlin frowns at the pain. “I save Arthur from being killed and I end us as his servant, how is that fair?”

Everyone turns at Uther who looks at them unwilling to answer.

Morgana gave him a look, Uther frowned, but started to talk “He became a part of the royal household, it was the highest position of someone HIS status could receive”.

Arthur and Morgana frowned, but well what could they do now.

“I’m not sure if fairness comes into it. Who knows it may be fun.”

Merlin smiled mockingly, “You think cleaning Arthur’s horses is gonna be fun. Have you seen my list of duties.”

“Wait clean your horses. That is a stable boy’s job” Leon turned to Arthur.

“I gave it to Merlin, still do in fact. My horses now particularly enjoy Merlin’s company… more the mine sometimes” he said looking aside.

‘I just wanted to give him more work to quit then’.

“We all have out duties, even Arthur” Gaius said trying to get it into Merlin's head that Arthur worked just as hard as everyone else and was under a lot of pressure.

“Yes must be really tough for him with all the girls and glory."

Arthur rolled his eyes at Merlins response 

Gwaine on the other hand laughed "Exactly what I thought this is why Merlin is my best friend." Lancelot just smirked at Gwaine

“He is the future king, there is a lot of pressure that is being put on him,” Gaius says cracking Merlin’s arms.

“That makes two of us”.

"Thank you for being the only one to understand me Gaius." said Arthur pretending to wipe a tear away from his eye Gwaine and Lancelot looked unimpressed while Gwen smiled fondly.

Merlin waked through the town heading to Gwen’s and the lesson began. Gwen was explaining to Merlin all the part’s of the armor with Merlin questioning Gwen’s knowledge not knowing she is a blacksmiths daughter. Gwen explaining to Merlin.

“That’s brilliant,” Merlin smiled sweetly at Gwen who giggled.

"You fell hard for Merlin sis." Elyan teased

"Shut up Elyan." said Gwen

Morgana felt herself feeling jealous at Gwen and Merlin's interaction for a reason unknown to her ' Why am I feeling this way he betrayed me.' she thought.

The scene changed to Merlin putting on the armor on Arthur very clumsily with Arthur berating him.

“Are you nervous?” Merlin spoke trying to make small talk.

“I don’t get nervous.”

“Really? I thought everyone got nervous” Merlin continued to try.

“Will you shut up!” Arthur yelled.

Everyone who liked Merlin were not Particularly happy with Arthur for yelling at Merlin.

Uther on the other hand looked estatic that Arthur was finally putting the Sorcerer in his place.

Morgana and Morgause were wondering how Merlin managed to stay.

Druid’s and Mordred were stuck in place. The once and future king YELLED at Emrys. This shouldn’t be allowed. Druids looked positively murderous, Mordred was starting to feel faint. ‘The king yells at Emrys in jest, but this was real! How could this happen? Why does Emrys respect the king so much?’

Merlin did effectively stop trying. He clumsily put on the prince’s cloak in silence with the prince looking at him enraged at the clumsiness.

‘What a prat!’

Merlin handed him the helmet, “Great, yeah I think you’re all set.”

“Aren’t you forgetting something?” Arthur looked at the servant.

‘How stupid is he,’ he thought looking at Merlin’s confused face. He frowned “My sword.”

Merlin quickly jumped to get it, trying to smile “Oh, yeah,” he gave him the sword “You will be needing that.”

Arthur looked outraged as he left.

“That went well” Merlin said to himself, smiling.

“How are you smiling?!” Gwaine yelled thinking Merlin could hear him, which he did, but it was to early for him to know and he was still exhausted.

“That’s Merlin for you” Lancelot said, giving a fake smile.

The tournament starts with all the contestants lining up, Merlin watches from the side mostly hidden from view. Gwen and Morgana sitting in the crowd giggling to each other as the king arrives. Uther gives a speech and the tournament begins. All, but the first two remaining Uther waits for Arthur, “I trust you will make me proud.”

Uther scowled as he said "You did then but now not so much." He said causing Arthur to look down. Gwen knowing how much his fathers words had hurt him was quick to take Arthur's hand "You may not have made him proud but you made the kingdom proud as well as me to call you my king." she said at his words Arthur held his head high.

Arthur scores the first win with Merlin cheering from his spot, Valiant wins as well and the day continues as such.

“Knight Valiant looks pretty handy with a sword” Merlin says to Arthur both watching closely.

Valiant walks back noticing the prince, he comes closer.

“May, I offer congratulations on your victory today.”

“Likewise,” Arthur looks at him judgingly.

“Were you really like this princess, you look disgusted with just a look at him?” Gwaine never one to hold his tongue says earning him a slap on the head from Leon.

“Ow.”

Arthur frowns, but looks at Gwaine, “As I said I was a bit of a prat then, I did not want to be challenged so I could make my father proud, It was wrong” Arthur said looking to the ground

“I hope to see you at the reception tonight” Valiant says before leaving, Merlin looking disapprovingly at him, “Creep!” at which Arthur chuckles.

Uther looked outraged "How dare he speak that way about a knight." he snarled wishing the boy was here so he could punish him.

“He made you laugh even back then?” Morgana speaks looking at Arthur. “Back then you used to laugh only when bullying servants, otherwise you were focused on pleasing your father,” she says mockingly.

Arthur resisted the urge to roll his eyes at her taunt 'As if every child doesn't wish for their parents to be proud of them. As if she didn't want Gorloris to be proud of her when she thought he was her father.' Arthur thought “He did indeed, I never knew why. I guess his insolence was refreshing.”

‘Refreshing? What did that sorcerer do to my son?” Uther looked at Arthur disturbed.

As Arthur was leaving he gave Merlin a million chores.

‘I can’t let him think it’s alright to speak like that’ he thought as he was leaving.

Night was closing in and Merlin was just casually using magic to finish all the chores. The sword was sharpening itself, most of the armor doing the same while Merlin was reading a book on his bed.

Uther and the council looked disgusted at the use of magic

Arthur on the other hand looked a bit impressed in spite of himself.

he turned to Gaius “Was he really using magic that carelessly in the castle?”

Gaius looked at him smiling “That he did sire, still does. I am not sure how he managed to keep his head on his shoulders all this time.”

“Me neither” Arthur said looking impressed.

‘Guess he can keep a secret afterall.’

As Gaius stepped into the room all the objects dropped, falling to the floor. Gaius started to yell, giving him another lecture before sighing defeatedly and leaving, but not before telling Merlin to come eat.

The scene changes to the throne room with Valiant introducing himself to the king. After impressing the king, he is introduced to lady Morgana.

Morgana takes a look at herself, circling around.

‘I was pretty, but what did that help when I was kept a prisoner even if I didn’t know it.’

Valiant starts to flirt with Morgana, Arthur staring from behind looking jealous as Morgana flirts back. The line progresses to Arthur who kneels to the king before stepping to Morgana who starts to tease him.

“They all seem rather impressed with knight Valiant.”

Arthur looks offended “they aren’t the only ones impressed by him” he speaks jealousy written on his face.

Morgana noticing this had to continue “You’re not jealous, are you?”

“I don’t see there being anything to be jealous off” the prince says as he walks away, Morgana losing her smile.

“Let us ignore that, neither of us knew we were siblings at the time, I was expecting to marry her” Arthur starts to defend himself, Morgana ignoring the entirety of the conversation as she continues to look at herself.

"Right like you weren't Blatantly ogling her." teased Leon 

" I didn't know! Yes she was gorgeous but she is my sister!" Arthur yelled at Leon

Morgana turned around a smile on her face and a mischievous glint in her green eyes "Gorgeous? I had no idea you felt this way about me dear brother does Gwen have competition?" she teased

Arthur turned to her bright red "Oh don't you start." he said.

The knights, Gwen, Morgana and even Morgause start to laugh at that all becoming more used to being with each other.

Morgana starts to mock Arthur being annoyed he spoke to her that way, she starts to praise Valiant.

The next day begins as Merlin walks to the armory unaware a lot of people follow him as always, but now talking more openly with each other and he steps inside going right to Arthur’s armor. As he picks it up he hears a hissing sound turning around “Gaius?

Gaius gave Merlin his patented look at this.

“Gaius? Really Merlin, the hissing told you it was Gaius” Arthur says disbelievingly at his servant. Meanwhile Gwaine was practically rolling on the floor laughing some of the other knights didn't look much better.

The hissing continues and Merlin begins to investigate, walking towards the sound, he kneels right before Valiant’s shield looking at it as the snake blinks.

“Wow” Gwaine jumps back.

“That is a good enchantment.” Morgana says closing in on the shield, kneeling next to Merlin.

Merlin extends his hand planning on touching the snake just as a swords points at him with Valiant standing before him.”

Morgana who was next to Merlin as that happened didn’t even notice a sword going through her as she was examining the shield, stepping away when she was done.

‘Well Pasha wasn’t kidding when she said nothing can hurt us’ Arthur thought staring at Morgana who stepped back to her sister.

“Can I help you with something, boy?” Valiant said still pointing a sword at Merlin.

Merlin stepped back.

“No, nope I’m good, I was just… gathering my master’s armor” Merlin says before getting the armor and leaving the armory clumsy as always.

Arthur who had took Morganas place beside Merlin was not happy about Valiant threatening Merlin 'How dare he threaten my best friend' he thought the other knights weren't any happier than Arthur 

Morgana was again having a strange sense of protectiveness over Merlin that she didn't understand.

Merlin brings the armor to Arthurs chambers, putting it on the table as Arthur looks at the shining armor.

“You did all of this on your own?” he asks, eyes wide as he looks at the servant he thought was incompetent.

"Hey!" Yelled both Gwaine and Lancelot offended at the slight at their friend.

"What I didn't say anything about you." said Arthur

"Well someone has to defend Merlin when hes not here to defend himself." said Gwaine as Lancelot nodded.

Arthur just rolled his eyes at the two.

The prince starts with his teasing “Now let’s see if you can get me into it without forgetting anything.”

“You’ll be surprised” Gwen says, Elyan just looks at her.

‘There is no way Merlin learned how to put on an armor on the prince in a night’ Elyan turned to Merlin who started to work.

Merlin very quickly and efficiently, without as much as a error dresses the prince, giving him the helmet as a finishing touch and looking proud his arms crossed while looking at the shocked prince.

“How?” Elyan was speechless.

“Two days and he can do it that efficiently?” Leon looked at Merlin with sparkling eyes.

“That’s my Merlin” Gwaine screams, Lance just looking at the prince with a smirk.

“That was much better” Arthur admits before remembering himself, “Not that it could get any worse.”

“I’m a fast learner.”

“I hope for your sake that’s true.”

“Good luck” merlin manages to say as Arthur starts to leave.

Merlin follows Arthur to the arena, going back to his spot from the previous day as Arthur raises his hand at the cheering.

Gaius walks up to Merlin.

“Is it my imagination or are you starting to enjoy yourself” Gaius asks knowingly.

Merlin sighs “It isn’t totally horrible all the time” Merlin corrects Gaius, smiling when he looks at Arthur.

"Huh you two did get close quick I don't think I have seen you get that close to someone that quickly dear brother." said Morgana 

"She's right even though you knew me for years you barely noticed me till Merlin arrived." said Gwen looking in awe at how quick he and Merlin bonded.

Arthur chose to ignore both comments

The first match starts and is quite brutal, both Valiant and his opponent being fearsome in their own way. The battle continues until finally Valiant pushes the knight to the ground and for the first time he uses his shield. As he chants the snakes come alive biting the knight as Valiant holds his helmet in hand victorious.

“Is he dead” Morgause says curious as she steps closer.

Gaius recalls the incident answering, “I believe he wasn’t dead yet, but he did die later on.”

“I see.” Morgause says stepping away from the body and steps to her sister. She starts to whisper to her “Poisonous snakes, nothing that impressive with this level of magic, but there is no spell to bring them out, but the one they belong to.”

“I think they came out during the last duel with Arthur and Arthur slayed them. I don’t recall Merlin having anything to do with this, other then knowing about the snakes and warning Arthur.” Morgana said thinking about the whole event.

Morgause started to tap with her foot “We will see.”

Arthur and Merlin watched the duel, Merlin quickly noticing the knight isn’t getting up. Gaius walks up to the knight as Valiant celebrates his victory.

Night falls and Merlin returns to the chambers.

“How is he?” Merlin is quick to ask the second he puts the armor down.

“It is most odd, look at these two wounds,” Gaius speaks pointing to the wounds. “It looks like a snakebite.”

Merlin looks up at Gaius confused “How can it be a snakebite. He was injured in a swordfight.

Morgana rolled her eyes "Has he really forget about the snakes in Valiants shield already or is he just playing dumb?" Morgana asked

"Knowing Merlin he probably forgot but i'm sure he will remember soon enough." said Lancelot

“Yet, his symptoms are consistent with those of poisoning.” Gaius recounted the symptoms, but Merlin wasn’t listening, he was thinking until Gaius ended his summary.

“Can you heal him?”

Gaius moved across the room “Well, if it’s a snakebite, then I will need to extract the venom from the snake that bit him to make the antidote.”

Merlin stood up, his mind still in the clouds.

“What happens if he doesn’t get the antidote?”

Arthur rolled his eyes at Merlin's stupidity "Really Merlin you don't have to be a doctor to know that." 

Gwen just chuckled at Arthur

“Then I’m afraid there is nothing more I could do for him. His going to die.”

Sadness clouded Merlin’s features until he remembered knight Valiant.

“He was fighting knight Valiant.” Merlin said before running towards the exit.

“Oh god what is he planning!” Lancelot said breaking into a run after the warlock.

‘I thought he didn’t interfere yet, but I guess I was wrong’ Lancelot thought catching up to Merlin, others slightly behind him, well all but Uther and the council who were as back as they could be, Uther just staring at his friend the entire time. Lancelot kept looking at Uther so he didn’t realize Merlin stopped until he went through a wall.

Gwaine was trying not to laugh (he failed).

Merlin observed sir Valiant as he entered his room, quickly following him to the door. He peeked into the room noticing Valiant feeding a mouse to the snakes. Merlin gasped, making a sound as he tried to make his escape. Valiant stood up his sword in hand as he went through the door. He walked around, but did not notice Merlin hidden behind a wall.

Morgana in spite of herself was impressed "He's smarter than I thought he hide behind the wall where as most people would just run straight and got saw by Valiant." she said

" That's my Merlin always Surprising people." said Gwaine

Valiant promptly gave up the search and Merlin sneaked back into physician’s chambers.

He ran to Gaius obviously out of breath “I’ve just seen one of the snakes from Valiant’s shield come alive. He is using magic. The snake ate a mouse, one swallow, straight down.”

“Merlin details!” Arthur yelled again looking disgusted.

“Oh please, like we haven’t seen worse queenie!”

Arthur pouted at that. Very royally of course, but he still pouted.

Gaius looked around in thought as Merlin continued “Ewan was fighting Valiant when he collapsed. It must have been one of the snakes from the shield.”

Gaius stood up as Merlin went to the door, “I have to tell Arthur!”

“Is there any chance you could be mistaken” Gaius screamed after Merlin.

“I know magic when I see it!” merlin looked at Gaius offended.

Gaius took a breath “Yes, but do you have proof?”

Merlin’s face fell, “Don’t you believe me?”

Morgana felt incensed at Gaius's lack of belief in his ward. "How could you not believe him you know he is not the type to lie about something like that." she said

"I did believe him but I knew that the king would not believe the word of a commoner against a knight without proof." Gaius said defending himself.

“I fear you’ll land yourself into trouble” Gaius tried to explain himself to Merlin.

Arthur snorted at that "We both know Merlin can't avoid getting himself into trouble Gaius."

"Indeed sire." said Gaius with a small smile.

Gaius started to walk “How will you explain why you were in Valiant’s chambers?”

“What does that matter? He is using magic to cheat in the tournament!” Merlin was upset, he just wanted to save knight Ewan from dying. He did not need to be shouted at.

“But you can’t go around accusing a knight of using magic without proof.” Gaius lowered his voice, sensing Merlin’s distress.

A conversation between Merlin and Gaius was fearsome. Merlin unsure of why he can’t tell the king, just because he is a servant. Gaius trying to convince him that’s just how things are.

Arthur cringed.

“It isn’t like that in my rule. Everyone has a right to report things” Arthur said staring at Uther.

“Then you have learned nothing. A knight has more worth then a servant and a noble is worth more then a knight. This is the natural order of things!” Uther screamed. “It seams I have failed to teach you.” Uther frowned, shaking his head.

Arthur looked away “At least the people respect me, not fear me!”

Morgana studied the both of them.

‘Maybe I underestimated Arthur. He is a good king, with everything, but magic which now I’m unsure where he stands.’

She looked at Uther sternly daring him to speak back to Arthur. Uther looked away

Next morning quickly came with Merlin dressing Arthur in his armor commentating on his next opponent. Arthur left, but not before Merlin patted him on the shoulder for luck. Morgana and Gwen were watching from the audience.

“You’re not worried, are you?” Gwen teased Morgana, who was deep in concern. “No.” she answered before looking in the arena

Morgana saw Arthur was preparing to talk, probably to annoy her so she quickly stepped in. “Yes I was worried, my cute little brother would get injured,” She teased first. Arthur not expecting it blushed and looked away before yelling at her “I’m not cute!” Morgana smirked at this response and decided to continue teasing him "Your right your as hideous as a troll Gwen Definitely didn't marry you for your looks." she said which earned her a glare from Arthur and a small snort from Gwen who was amused at how easily Morgana could fall back into teasing Arthur.

Merlin was looking at Valiant just as Gaius came. Merlin still salty walked past him.

The tournament started again, Arthur winning his match and Valiant winning his. Both getting to the finals. Merlin watched closely as Gaius stepped next to him.

“Valiant’s going to fight Arthur in the final.” Merlin looked Gaius in the eyes. “He is going to use the shield to kill him.” Merlin said before leaving.

Merlin watched over knight Ewan in his chamber’s looking as Gaius interrupted him.

“merlin, about what I said yesterday…look Uther really wouldn’t listen to you or me. But you are right. We can’t let Valiant get away with this.”

Merlin still being upset took a line from Gaius’s book “But we don’t have any proof.”

"He was upset with you." Morgana said finding herself again upset on Merlins behalf.

"More annoyed really Merlin hates sitting still doing nothing when there's a problem." Gaius said with a small smile.

"True." Morgana said remembering all the times Merlin had foiled one of her plots.

“Well, if we could cure Ewan, he could tell the king that Valiant was using magic. The king would believe another knight. But how we get the antidote… that’s another matter.” Merlin looked up considering his chances before standing up.

“Oh, I know where we are going” Gwaine spoke walking next to Merlin like he was ready to protect him.

“I think we all do.” Morgause spoke, looking forward to seeing the shield again.

“Actually, Merlin took a perfect time. Now a feast should be happening.” Morgana spoke surprised that the sorcerer remembered such a thing.

Merlin checked the throne room noticing Valiant speak with the king.

“Well, sir Valiant do you think you can match my son?”

Valiant looked unconcerned about tomorrow as he spoke.

“He is a great warrior my lord.”

Uther looked at him giving him an offer to stay in Camelot. Arthur looked at his father in horror.

‘Please, I don’t want to deal with a knight like him’ Arthur scowled a bit as he noticed Valiant looking at him.

" Didn't want to deal with him huh dear." said Gwen teasing him as Arthur glared playfully at Gwen.

“I’d be honored, my lord.”

Merlin noting Valiant would still be here a while quickly left.

“He really is smarter than I ever gave him credit for.” Morgana smirked a bit as she ran with Merlin.

“I think we all underestimated him, my lady.” Leon spoke as he was near Morgana.

Morgana gave him a small smile, before remembering they shouldn’t be this kind to each other anymore. They aren’t childhood friends anymore.

Merlin walked to Valiant’s room stopping right in front of the door.

"Its locked."Morgana noted

Merlin spoke a spell and the lock opened .Merlin quickly stepping inside.

“Well that was easy” Morgause smiled at the warlock.

“He is good with his magic after all. Even with no studying he is better then most teenage sorcerers.” Morgana looked at Morgause and then at Merlin before stepping inside the room.

Merlin took a sword pointing it at the shield, yet the snakes didn’t appear. Footsteps began to sound outside the door and Merlin turned around a snake finally appearing as it sensed the boy turned. Merlin glanced at the shadow turning around just as the snake stroke… Merlin slashed his sword cutting the snake’s head.

“Not a fool at all then” Arthur said looking at Merlin with fondness.

Morgana gaped at Merlin. “He really is full of surprises.” She breathed out, letting a smile grace her lips.

‘I will be stuck here a while. There is no need for us to be so tense especially when we are learning something so useful.’ Morgana held her sister’s hand, Morgause gladly excepting her.

The druids stared at the warlock, Mordred even more so as he never saw Merlin use a sword.

‘No magic and he is still so wonderful and perfect’ the druids all thought wanting to kneel to their lord.

Pasha heard the druids thoughts and resisted the urge to roll her eyes she loved her son but he wasn't perfect his actions in regard to Morgana had been wrong and had caused to a large degree her fall into the hateful person she was now. His brilliant plan to work in the shadows with his magic hoping Arthur would repeal the ban on magic while giving him no reason to believe that magic could be a force for good was also flawed and had lead to Arthur rejecting magic in his confrontation with the Disir.

Merlin took the snake’s head, dropping the sword he hurried back to the chambers.

Gaius extracted the venom as Merlin prepared to go to Arthur.

“You’ll need this,” Gaius said giving merlin the head.

“And Merlin, what you did was very brave.” Gaius said looking proudly at Merlin who smiled before he left.

Morgana felt herself smiling along with Merlin.

You chopped it’s head off” Arthur said looking at the snake.

“That he did princess!”

“No doubt about it!”

“It was very clearly him!”

“Yes dear brother, it was Merlin”

Gwaine, Lancelot, Elyan and Morgana all spoke looking straight at Arthur who just sighed.

‘Am I the only normal one here?” Arthur was pretty sure he was as even Leon and Morgause laughed at the shenanigans.

“Ewan was bitten by a snake from the shield when he was fighting Valiant.” Merlin spoke Arthur looking like his servant was insane, but Merlin continued none the less. “You can talk to Gaius. You can see the puncture wounds on Ewan’s neck where the snake bit him.”

Arthur was looking away from Merlin considering the information. “Ewan was beating him. He had to cheat.”

Arthur smiled at the insolence. “Valiant wouldn’t dare use magic in Camelot.”

“And this is why Camelot is so easy to attack” Morgana scowled.

Arthur looked at her, “What do you mean?”

“All of Camelot thinks nobody would dare come to Camelot if they possessed magic, but you are so wrong. A lot of people turn to magic, or magic creatures who wish to have Camelot and you always seem to turn your back to it saying no one would dare use magic in Camelot even after this has been proven wrong over and over again. You trust a knight you don’t know to not use magic just cause of this belief, its foolish!” Morgana all, but yelled not even looking at Arthur, but at Uther, her eyes blazing with fury.

Uther looked at his daughter sad yet regretting nothing he had done.

Morgana turned away.

“Ewan was pinned below Valiant’s shield, no one would see the snake bite him!” Merlin insisted stubbornly, Arthur still not convinced spoke back “I don’t like the guy, but that doesn’t mean he’s cheating.”

Arthur stood up facing away from his manservant.

“Gaius is preparing an antidote to the snake venom. When Ewan’s conscious he will tell you what happened.” Arthur faced him again as Merlin continued to talk “Valiant is going to use the shield in the final. It’s the only way he can beat you.” Arthur smiled at the confidence boost

"How could you not believe him when he has such faith in you." said Gwen

"I'm surprised he does have such faith in you dear brother after all you have done nothing but berate and insult him up to this point." said Morgana

“I must agree” Gaius said Arthur facing towards him in shock.

“I mean no offense my lord, but at the time you treated him as nothing, but a servant. The way he wanted to save you went above everything I imagined.” Gaius quickly explained.

Arthur still stared at the physician considering then sighed knowing he was right.

Merlin picked the snake head up shoving it in front of the prince. “Look at it, have you ever seen any snakes like this in Camelot!” Arthur picked the snake up from Merlin, looking at it, going through his memories, sighing when he found nothing. “I know I’m just a servant and my word doesn’t count for anything.” At those words Arthur stared into Merlin’s eyes “I wouldn’t lie to you.” Arthur didn’t know what to think, astonished by the honesty in his servants eyes

"Arthur" Gwen said while smiling as she said his name but their was something wrong with the way she said his name "If i hear Merlin say he's just a servant because of something you said or because you didn't listen to him I'm going to slap you upside the head." she said still smiling sweetly.

 Arthur froze at the threat, looking around him noticing vicious gazes. The druids were glaring at him for a while now so that wasn’t a surprise, but now his knights and Gaius joined in, all looking like they will run him through.

Arthur gathered his courage “You should be just as  loyal to me, as you are to Merlin!”

Gwaine and Lancelot smirked surprisingly Lancelot was the one who spoke “I stayed in Camelot because of Merlin, my loyalty may be to you, but my heart is with Merlin.”

“I came with you in the first place just because of Merlin and I stayed because of him as well, don’t think otherwise queenie. I may like you more then I did, but nowhere near the level that I love Merlin.” Gwaine gave him a hard glare he honestly should have  been expecting Gwaine found himself surprised when Arthur returned the glare with full force.

"I also stayed for Merlin." said a voice Arthur didn't expect it was Elyan “I stayed because Merlin helped me with the forge work at the time. Of course, I was also thinking of my sister, but without Merlin I would have left after making sure she was safe.”

Arthur found himself feeling heartbroken that his friends or who he thought was his friends were only friendly to him because of Merlin 'Am I really such a horrible person that even the people I consider my closest friends would prefer Merlin over me' Arthur thought Gwen who knew how Arthur would be feeling after this revelation walked over and took his hand and shot a disappointed look at the three knights  "Arthur you know I would never choose Merlin over you anymore than I would choose you over Merlin." she said 

Uther for his part was enraged at the disrespect and disloyalty they showed to Arthur "You see Arthur this is why you should never knight commoners! If I were still the king you would all be executed for your lack of respect for your king!" Uther spat at the three knights 

This comment was enough to shock Arthur out of his silence "Then again its a good thing you are no longer king father and no longer have any say in this. I wasn't wrong to knight commoners I just may have chosen the wrong commoners to knight I had hoped to seek your counsel in what to do about Merlin but I see now that i can't count on your counsel to be impartial nor truthfully can I count on you as my knights. After all the three of you have stated your loyalty is to Merlin not to me. Because of this I revoke your titles of knights of Camelot." Arthur said as he walked away from his former knights.

All of the knights looked shocked at Arthurs reaction to Gwaine Lancelot and Elyan's declaration Gwaine was incensed "I can't believe I thought he was a noble worth dying for he's just like all of the rest just like his father." Gwaine muttered Gwen heard this mutter and frowned at Gwaine Unfortunately for Gwaine Arthur also heard his mutter and turned back around and got directly into Gwaine's face.

"I'm like my father am I? I'm getting tired of people claiming that because the truth is I am as about as little like my father as it's possible to be! For instance if I was like my father Merlin's fate would already be sealed he would be burnt at the stake and Gaius would probably be joining him their would be nothing anyone could show me that would change that. I'm so much like my father I fell in love with and married a commoner. Speaking of Gwen if I was anything like my father she would likely already be dead at the hands of Hengist because I certainly wouldn't have went to rescue her if I were like my father. J'm so much like my father I helped a young druid boy Mordred escape his execution. I'm so much like my father I was willing to repeal the ban on magic if a sorcerer would heal my father  unfortunately that sorcerer chose to kill my father instead."

Gaius decided to finally correct this belief "Sire that sorcerer was innocent in the death of youfather. Shortly after we examined your fathers body we discovered a talisman that reversed the effects of the healing spell the sorcerer used we suspect it was placed by Agravine on Lady Morganas orders." he informed his king.

Arthur was astounded by this information "Gaius why was I not informed of this before now I launched a hunt for that sorcerer and wanted to kill him!" "I'm sorry sire I didn't think that it would make a difference seeing as your father still died through magic." Gaius said

"Wouldn't have made a difference Gaius?  I admit at first it probably wouldn't have made a difference. I probably would have been too blinded by grief to care but eventually I like to think had I known the entire truth I would have remembered the fact that the sorcerer was willing to save the life of a man that hated him because it was the right thing to do only asking that his people stop being persecuted had and maybe I would have honered his attempt to save the life of a man that hated him by repealing the magic ban." Arthur said then he turned toward his sister "So tell me my lady was your petty hatred worth it? he asked her

Morgana and Morgause were both shocked by Arthur's speech but Morgana was not about to be swayed so easily "Pretty words dear brother but even you can't say for sure what you would have done. How was I supposed to know that your attempt to heal our father with magic was anything but you being a hypocrite in regards to magic? Afterall when I was injured to the point of death and first found out Uther was my father I heard him ask Gaius to use the magic he hates so much to heal me. So tell me dear brother how was I supposed to know that you were any less a hypocrite than our father!" she asked Arthur who had no real answer for her.

Morgause whispered to her sister "Sister do you think he is telling the truth would he really have repealed the magic ban if the sorcerer had healed his father?" "My brother is a stubborn pigheaded idiot but he would feel it to dishonorable to not uphold his end of the bargain I honestly believe he would have seriously considered it." Morgana whispered to her sister

Arthur meanwhile had seperated himself from Gwaine, Lancelot, and Elyan Gwen however had not she was glaring at them "Do you three realize how much you just hurt Arthur? Do you think Merlin would thank you or be happy with you for hurting the person he is closest too? If you think for one second that he would then none of you know Merlin very well at all he would be furious with the three of you!" Gwen said angrily as if in agreement with Gwen's words a cold harsh wind began blowing at the three as Gwen  walked away from the three and joined Arthur

Pasha decided to get the show back on track "We have much to see still and I would like to remind you to try to understand why many made the decision's they make not just my son."

After Pasha spoke the scene resumed

Arthur and Merlin were gazed at each other before the prince broke the silence. “I want you to swear to me, what your telling me is true.” Merlin peacefully swore, looking at him with pure confidence.

“Then I believe you."

Gwen looked shocked that Merlin was able to earn Arthurs trust as soon as he did 'You really are special Merlin.' she thought 

Next day began with Valiant being escorted to the palace before the scene shifted to Gaius and knight Ewan talking, telling the physician what he saw.

Leon looked at his fellow knight. “So he did wake?”

“Yes, sir Leon he did, but unfortunately something happened, even I am not sure what.”

Leon lowered his head.

Gaius left getting more herbs and as soon as he did a snake came out heading directly to sir Ewan who screamed before the snake bit him again killing him.

Everyone stared at the scene,“I apologize my lord, I should not have left him alone” Gaius spoke bowing to Arthur. Arthur who was speechless at once turned to face him. “It is not your fault Gaius, castle is supposed to be safe. Nobody would have expected that.” Gaius bowed again.

Leon was the most affected knowing sir Ewan before. He sent a silent prayer to him.

Uther arrived at the throne room quickly gaining attention he spoke to Arthur.

“Why have you summoned the council?” he walked to his throne.

Arthur stepped forward accusing Valiant of magic. Valiant quickly defending himself showing the shield at the king. Unfortunately as sir Ewan died his witness disappeared leaving Arthur with no evidence. Merlin almost got arrested, but sir Valiant wanting Merlin to see Arthur died convinced the king to pardon him. Arthur lowered his head to knight Valiant in apology. Uther furious at his son for such an accusation.

Morgana was suprised to feel offended on her brothers behalf "Despicable can't even believe your own son even though he was telling the truth!" she said angrily 

"He had no proof what would you have had me do!" Uther asked 

"Yet you believed others even though they had no proof! Yet you couldn't believe your own son you didn't even apologize after you found out he was right did you?" Morgana asked her father 

"Is he a child that he needs a pat on the head of course I did not apologize." he said 

:"Despicable your too proud to apologize even though your son was right! Even though their were numerous incidents with magic which your son managed to stop!" she yelled at him angrily Arthur smiled at his sister but she stubbornly turned away.

Merlin followed the prince and a fight started. “I believed you, I trusted you and you made me look like a complete fool.” Arthur was mad, infuriated as Merlin tried to soften the situation. Arthur screamed at Merlin, while Merlin still concerned with the prince’s safety wanted to expose Valiant.

“I no longer require your services.” Arthur spoke at Merlin’s suggestion.

“You’re sacking me?”

"Your sacking him!" most of the occupants excluding Gwen and Uther yelled Arthur looked down in shame.

“I need a servant I can trust.”

the druids, Gwaine, and Lancelot looked furious 'How dare the king not trust Merlin/Emrys especially after he saved the kings life' they thought ignoring the fact that he barely knew Merlin at that point.

Arthur for his part was feeling ashamed at his actions Gwen knowing Arthur would be kicking himself for his past actions squeezed his hand "Don't be so hard on your self dear I'm not saying i'm happy with you but I also understand that you were lashing out because you were upset that you had disappointed your father. " she said softly 

Gwaine snorted "Figures you would defend him!" he scoffed Gwen again glared at Gwaine "I'm not defending his actions Gwaine but their is this little thing called empathy I understand why Arthur reacted the way he did. I want you to try to imagine how you would have reacted if you had been embarrased in front of your father and had said father basically say that he was disapointed in you in front of a crowd of people would you have reacted any better or would you have reacted the same way." Gwen asked Gwaine who just continued to scowl

Merlin ran out the room, Arthur felt bad, but sat leaned at the table. As the night came Merlin headed to the cave.

Uther scowled 'the boy is going down to see that blasted dragon again' Uther thought 'he might have been the one to let that blasted dragon out and if he was Arthur will see that the boy is evil!' he thought with a broad grin.

“Where are you?” merlin screamed to the cave with nothing appearing.

Merlin started to pace as he started to talk “I just came to tell you, whatever you think my destiny is, whatever you think it is I’m supposed to do, you’ve got the wrong person.” Merlin waited a bit looking around “That’s it…

Gwen smirked "Merlin is pouting he is mad that you did not listen to him so he went to complain to the dragon, hoping it might have answers as well as just to blow some steam.” she  laughed a bit at her own words.

everyone looked shocked at her words.

“Goodbye.” Merlin spoke as he pretended to walk away.

“If only it were so easy to escape one’s destiny.”

“How can it be my destiny to protect someone who hates me.” Merlin asked 

'I didn't hate you Merlin even then I'm not sure  I could hate you' Arthur thought

“A half cannot truly hate that which makes it whole. Very soon you shall learn that.” The dragon criptedly said.

“Oh great, just what I needed, another riddle.”

Arthur snorted 'At least I'm not the only one he's impertinent towards.' he thought

Morgana was also amused 'this is why he was my friend.' she thought

“That your and Arthur’s path lies together is but the truth.”

“What is that supposed to mean?”

“You know, young warlock, this is not the end. It is the beginning.” The dragon spread his wings and flew away.

“Just give me a straight answer!” Merlin yelled after him, infuriated he left.

Another morning arose while Merlin sat on the stairs dejected as Gwen walked up to him.

“Hello Merlin.”

“All right?” Merlin said definitely not paying much attention. Gwen sat down next to Merlin “Is it true what you said about Valiant using magic?” Gwen asked curiously, Merlin only nodded still not looking at her.

“What are you gonna do?” Merlin finally faced her at that question.

“Why does everyone think it’s up to me to do something about it?”

“Now that I think about is. Merlin is a servant who only came in Camelot, yet everyone really does expect him to do everything.” Gwen spoke.

Druids looked away ashamed as did Gaius.

“Oh, now you realize it?” Morgana faced them. “And this is probably just the beginning of him always having to fix things. It’s going to be an experience seeing all of it." ' I wonder how he does manage it.' she thought.

“Well it is… isn’t it?”

“You have to show everyone that you were right and they were wrong.”

“Hm… and how do I do that? Merlin glanced at her, waiting for an answer.

“I don’t know.” Merlin looked away, expecting that answer. His eyes widened in a second.

Morgana looked in the direction Merlin was looking “A statue? What does that have to do with anything?”

“That’s it.” Merlin stood up going directly to the statue.

“Where are you going?” Gwen followed.

Merlin grabbed the statue trying to lift it unsuccessfully. “Do you have a wheelbarrow?”

Gwen looked at him and went to get one.

“What is he planning to do with a statue” Morgause said as she touched the statue, felling nothing special about it.

Merlin put the statue in the wheelbarrow and brought it to his room. 

Everyone looked on curiously even Uther 

Merlin smiled as he closed his door, he quickly got the magic book and sat on the bed.

Morgause and Morgana stepped to Merlin, reading the incarnation.

They looked at each other “He isn’t thinking of doing that, right?” Morgana said eyes blown. “I don’t know sister.”

“Mind letting us know?” Gwaine said standing before them, trying to read, but being unsuccessful.

Morgana looked up “It’s an incarnation meant for releasing creatures. Basically, meant for rescuing live things from objects.”

“Okay, and what is the problem?” Percival spoke moving Gwaine away from the sisters as they were thinking.

“This dog is made of stone, there is no life in him, so he is expecting to make new life out of a statue.” Morgause clarified.

Druids looked at Emrys.

“That is not possible, right?” Mordred spoke facing Morgana and Morgause.

“It shouldn’t be.” Morgause clarified to the druid before everyone turned back to Merlin.

Merlin was repeating the incarnation, going all around the room, trying different poses yet nothing worked.

“He is quite adorable like this” Morgana said."Adorable huh" Morgause teased her sister causing Morgana to blush slightly "He's also a bit foolish. This is far harder to accomplish then getting an already alive snake out of a shield, if he succeeds in this it is no wonder why he messed up all of our plans, It’s quite adorable.”

Night fell and the scene abruptly changed showing Morgana asleep. Everything was fine, but one thing. Visions. Morgana saw a vision of Arthur dying to Valiant… and then she woke up breathless.

"What was that?" Arthur asked his sister 

“It’s my visions. I guess all of you will be able to see them as our thoughts from that time are revealed in this place.”

“That was horrifying” Elyan spoke.

Morgana smiled at the comment and looked at Arthur, Uther and Gaius “Am I just having nightmares now gentleman?” Arthur and Gaius looked down ashamed Uther just stared at her too proud to admit he was wrong.

Morgana stood up going to the window seeing Arthur train.

'I really did care for him once could I really let myself care about him again.' Morgana thought remembering how much she had loved and cared for Arthur once.

Suddenly they were back in Merlin’s room who was still trying the spell. Merlin tried saying it faster yet nothing worked. He threw the book and himself on the bed. Sighing he took a break and headed to Arthur. Arthur looked at him. “I thought I told you to get out of my sight”.

Arthur was once again the recipient of glares from the usual suspects.

“Don’t fight Valiant in the final tomorrow. He will use the shield against you.” Merlin spoke with urgency. “I know.” Not facing him said Arthur. “Then withdraw. You have to withdraw” Merlin was desperate.

“Don’t you understand?” Arthur faced him “I can’t withdraw.” Arthur was resigned.

“The people expect their prince to fight. How can I lead men into battle if they think I’m a coward.”

'Your people huh brother does that include those of us with magic?' Morgana thought

“Valiant will kill you. If you fight, you die.”

“Then I die.”

“How selfish.” Morgause concluded.

“What do you mean” Arthur’s posture hardened.

“You would prefer to see your people end without a prince. Without anyone to lead them over being called a coward. That is selfish. You just don’t want to be seen as a coward, but being a coward is better then being dead. For yourself and Camelot.”

" No it really wouldn't be better for my people if I were a coward." Arthur said "Do you think that the people would follow someone or have faith in someone that asked them to die for them if I wasn't willing to do the same for them? Would it be better for my people if a rival king decided to take advantage of my cowardice and invaded thinking that I was a coward who wouldn't fight for my people and believing that they could subjugate my people? Would it be better for my people if another king decided to withold resources that I needed thinking I was too weak to do anything about it? Would it be better for my people if a portion of my subjects decided to rebel thinking I was weak? A commoner can afford to be a coward afterall the stigma attached only effects them but a ruler doesn't have that luxury if a king is seen as weak another king can and will take advantage of it. Also had I died my father would have just named Morgana his heir which should please you. Would it be be better for me I didn't die? Sure but if and when I do die I know I will leave behind a fine successor in Guinivere." having said this Arthur turned back to watch the scene reciving a slap to the back of the head from Gwen for speaking about his death so flippantly.

“How can you go out there and fight like that?”

“Because I have to, it’s my duty.”

‘Then it’s my duty to protect you.’

“Merlin no!”

Merlin walked back to his chambers. He took up the book and continued to chant. Morning fell and Merlin was half asleep still chanting the spell.

Arthur was getting prepared for the fight. Getting dressed by another servant as Morgana arrived finishing the job herself.

“I used to help my father with his armor.” Morgana said 

Uther watched the scene Morgana laughed bitterly 'My father huh?' 

“Thanks.” Arthur began walking towards the door.

“Arthur? Be careful.”

Arthur nodded “See you at the feast.”

Arthur arrived at the arena. Both him and Valiant put on their helmets and the duel started.

Merlin was asleep yet continued saying the spell.

"Does he really still thank he can pull off the spell?" Morgana wondered outloud 

"I'd look at the dog if I were you." Gwen laughed 

Morgana, Morgause and the druids looked at the dog in shock.

The dog barked and Merlin woke up staring at it.

“That shouldn’t be possible.” Druid Erik said staring at the live dog

“Oh, I did it!” Merlin cheered, but as dog continued to bark quickly escaped the room.

“How? This is a life, he created. It is not possible.” Morgause was speechless.

Merlin walked out of his room warning Gaius to not go into the room as he left. Everyone turned to Gaius. “I did went in, but ran out the second I opened the door.” Gaius said knowing they would ask.

The fight continued both being somewhat equal in strength. Merlin watched from his spot behind the wall.

Valiant’s helmet flew of as Arthur punched him.

Arthur took his helmet off as well and their fight continued.

Morgana rolled her eyes at Arthurs actions 'Always got to be the honorable one huh brother.' She was suprised to find herself thinking this more fondly than she expected too.

Arthur being knocked around a bit prompted Merlin to act saying the chant and the snakes appeared from the shield.

Arthur stooped and the entirety of Camelot looked at the shield. “What are you doing? I didn’t summon you.” Valiant himself was taken aback.

“He really is using magic” uther glared at the knight. “And now they see you for who you really are.” Arthur spoked, Valiant just started to chuckle as he sent the snakes out of the shield. “Kill him.”

Arthur walked back, Morgana noticing took a sword and threw it to him. Arthur swung it killing the snakes before continuing his fight with Valiant, stabbing him quickly.

“I guess, I’ll be going to the feast after all.” Valiant fell to the ground and people cheered.

"Good job Sire." Leon said complimenting his friend

The feast started, Arthur escorting Morgana across the room. Merlin looked at them both smiling before turning to Gaius “told you he gets all the girls and glory.” Gaius looked at the boy smiling “And he owes it all to you.”.

"Careful Gaius your going to give Merlin a big head if you keep this up." Arthur joked 

Gwaine seemed to be upset at this joke "You should be more grateful Princess Merlin saved your life." Gwaine said angrily 

Arthur just looked at Gwaine "If were being honest with ourselves Gwaine no he didn't. Don't get me wrong he definitely tried his best but again if were being honest Merlin causing the snakes to come out when he did actually endangered my life that spell to make the snakes come out would have been more useful within the throne room a spell to keep the snakes from coming out would have been more useful in the arena. Especially seeing as if you had been paying attention to the fight you might have noticed that when the snakes came out I was unarmed while my opponent was armed as well as having the snakes if Morgana hadn't thrown me the sword when she did I easily could have died. Morgana did more to save my life than Merlin did in this particular instance I was just too immature at the time to thank her for it at the time so I'll thank her for It now Thank you Morgana." Arthur said as Gwaine as well as the druids continued to glare at Arthur but being unable to argue with anything he said 

Morgana for her part was suprised that her brother was able to swallow his pride enough to thank her for saving his life "Don't expect me to do the same in the future dear brother." she said with far less bite than she would have even a few days ago Arthur just snorted at her response.

Morgana and Arthur never being able to talk quickly got in an argument.

Morgana walked to Gwen and Arthur headed to Merlin, who was surprised at the company.

“Can you believe Morgana? She says she saved me, like I needed any help.” Arthur said to Merlin"

Did you really just go up to him like nothing happened?" asked Gwen 

Arthur looked sheepish "I just wanted to start the conversation." 

Merlin looked all around but at the prince.

“I wanted to say… I made a mistake. “It was unfair to sack you” Arthur said looking away. Merlin glanced at him and smirked.

“Oh don’t worry about it.”  Merlin. “Oh don’t worry about it. Buy me a drink and we’ll call it even.”

“Uh, I can’t really be seen buying a drink for my servant.” Arthur said 

Pasha laughed "Thats another day done onto the next." she said