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Chapter Text

Chapter Text

Chapter Text

Chapter Text

Merlin left Gaius's chambers in a hurry, there is something off about him, he doesn't understand what it is about him but his spider sense as Will called it tells him that he isn't good and if that wasn't enough to seal the deal, his magic keeps trying to attack him. Merlin shakes his head, he hopes that it just nerves, that he's really just missing his mom and Will. he doesn't know how he would be able to stay with Gaius long term if every time his magic runs free it tries to attack him. Merlin frowns Will would have an answer. Everyone back home thought that Will was an idiot, because that's what he pretended to be but Merlin was actually really smart - after his mom took Will in she taught him how to read and well that was it. Will absorbed information the that most people drank water Merlin smiles sadly. He misses Will. He misses the stupid pranks they pulled. The endless random facts about insects. The endless questions about his magic and the demonstration. But most of all Merlin misses having a best friend. He doesn't know how Will would react if Merlin were to show up back in Ealdor - he knows that they fought and Merlin regrets what he said - he does but at the same time he is still hurt, still angry about what will said to him. a big part of him is scared that will go back to Ealdor and Will won't forgive him.

Merlin walks down the corridors, he looks out the window he's glad to see that the pyre is gone, he didn't even think about the execution when he decided to leave the chambers - he just needed to leave. Merlin's magic curls deep in his chest it pulses with warmth as though it knows that Merlin is sad and it wants to cheer him up. A wistful smile on his face, he promises that he will find some time to go out into the woods and let his magic roam free for a there.

Merlin walks along leaving the castle to walk outside through the courtyard. Merlin can't remember a time when he didn't have magic, according to his mother he always had it, he was born with gold eyes. He was moving objects with his mind before he could talk and starting fires before he could walk, he can't imagine that it was easy trying to raise him he knows that he's difficult without the magic. He always hated that he couldn't do what his mother asked - and stop using his magic, it would have most likely made things easier. No matter how hard he tried his magic would never settle quietly almost like it was separate to him but also the same. With his magic Merlin had never once felt alone, it was the one thing that was always at his side, he always thought himself lucky because even though his magic feels like a living thing inside him, his eyes only glow gold when he actively uses it.

Yawning, Merlin looks around, the place looks vaguely familiar but he isn't totally confident he knows where he is to make his way back to his rooms. Resolved not to use his magic again within Camelot's walls Merlin starts to wander back the way he came. Keeping his eyes focused on his surroundings, Merlin curses, he must have taken a wrong turn somewhere because he swears he's in the lower town. His magic taunts him buzzing under his skin - he knows that his magic could guide him back to the chambers but magic is a crime punishable by death. Memories of the crowd, cheering as Thomas screamed try to push to the fore front of his mind but Merlin refuses to let them distract him. He continues to wander around aimlessly with no luck.

Looking around he's glad to see that the streets are mostly empty, keeping his eyes trained on the floor he lets his magic out a little, the magic shoots forwards telling him which way to go. It takes him no time to get back to the courtyard, he is surprised to see a blonde noble on the green square training with a servant. Merlin winces in pity as he watches the servant sidestep across the field going from left to right as the blonde throws knives at the target attached to his back. He can't remember if he saw them when he walked through the first time but despite the pity Merlin has for the servant he can't help but appreciate the blondes skill. He throws each blade with startling accuracy all of the blades close to the bullseye the focus and the intensity. Merlin's magic freezes, it feels like it's studying the Blonde and merlin is surprised Merlin finds that his magic cares very little for people outside of his family even with other magic users Merlin's magic seems to size them up and then dismiss them. When his magic begins to reach out Merlin panics, he pulls it in close to his chest. 'Magic is punishable death' he reminds it hoping it will do as its told and just sit still under his skin.

Merlin loses track of how long he has been watching the blonde man train - turns to go back to Gaius chamber settle in for the evening when he hears a loud bang. Flinching, he whips his head around to see that the servant has tripped and fell likely from exhaustion and he had dropped the target when he did. The target rolls towards him and Merlin bends over to pick it up when he does he sees the blonde haired noble aim to throw another blade this time at the now defenceless servant. Anger swirls in Merlin's chest the man can clearly see that the target is gone - it's clear that he wants to hurt his own servant and Merlin is disgusted by the behaviour. His previous attraction to the man cools and Merlin steps forward knowing that he is likely going to regret what he's about to do.

"You've had my fun, my friend." Merlin swallows the small trickle of fear that runs down his spine. Looking directly at the blonde man prepared to throw a dagger at the unarmed servant.

The man in question turns, and Merlin swallows this time but this time for a very different reason. He has spent the past however long watching the man train but that's nothing compared to seeing the man up close - Merlin is not ashamed to admit the man is handsome. The blonde has the most stunning blue eyes he's ever encountered, they seem to both brighten but dark at the same time, he's a little shorter than Merlin himself but what the man lacks for in height he more than makes up for in muscle. Merlin is a little ashamed that while he was watching the man train he spent most of his time ogling his muscles.

"Oh and who are you?" the man practically purrs and Merlin's ears burn he can feel his ears heating he just hopes they are not as red as they feel.

"I'm Merlin." he raises his hand for the other to shake but the other just smiles shaking his head sauntering forward. Merlin fights the urge to take a step back, as the man invades his personal space. Merlin's magic seems to be completely silent now content to just watch the show humming in his chest.

"So, I don't know you," the blonde caresses Merlin's face, his touch Featherlight but makes Merlin's skin burn. His magic coos in his chest begging for more attention and Merlin stills. He is not going to back down, the blonde saw that his servant was ill prepared but was still going to throw his dagger anyway. "And yet you called me friend," his lips curl around the word like he finds them distasteful. Merlin frowns, the man sounds likes a complete and utter arse.

"That was my mistake," Merlin takes a step back, ignoring the blonde taunting smirk, there is something about the man that makes Merlin's mind slow and Merlin is not sure whether he likes it or not.

Yes it was," he smirks and Merlin swallows the blond has dimples he feels his mind go blank. His shakes himself mentally 'This is not a nice guy' he reminds himself.

"Yea, I could never have a friend who could be such an ass." Merlin smiles at his insult and the shock that sits on the blondes face. Merlin decides enough is enough he's already stopped the man from attacking the poor servant, and he is already pushing his luck with Gaius after the events this morning. He turns to work away but the a hand on his arm stops him. He turns to not expecting the other boy to be stood so close.

"Tell me Merlin," the blonde man's hand comes up resting Merlin's hip "Do you know how to walk on your knees?"

Merlin stiffens the clear implication of the blonde man's words cross his mind. In another time at another place Merlin would be thrilled to hear those words - but Merlin may find the other man attractive but his arrogant behavior and his clear disregard for others has him completely uninterested.

"No," Merlin shakes his head taking a step back despite the pulsing in his chest as his magic begs for him to get closer to the blonde.

"Would you like for me to help you?" the blonde takes a step closer, and Merlin reacts without thinking he had already said No. He goes to slap the other in the face.

The crowd of people hold their breath as Arthur catches the hand before it even comes close to hitting him.

"That wasn't very nice, pet" was it Merlin stiffens at the nickname the man has given him he is not anyone's 'Pet' not now - not ever. Using his hold the man tries to pull Merlin closer but when Merlin tries to knee him in the ball he twists Merlin's arm and forces Merlin to face away from him.

"I'm going to have to put you in jail for this, Pet." Merlin frowns the other man sounds disappointed.

"What- Who are you? the king?"

The soft chuckle has the hair on the back of neck raising causing Merlin still. Arthur leans forward and Merlin struggles to contain the shiver that works it's way down his spine.

"No." Merlin can feel the mans lips brush against his ear as he speaks "I'm his son Arthur."

The man - Arthur moves back. Realization hits and Merlin stiffens in Arthur's hold. Just realizing how he has well and truly fucked up.

Arthur kicks him in the back of his knees and Merlin falls to the floor, Arthur doesn't let go of his hold on Merlin's arms instead he calls over some guards - clearly making god on his threat of having him sent to prison.. Merlin doesn't know what to do. His stomach sinks as he is forced to his knees by Arthur. - he can't use his magic, not that he thinks that his magic would help him now, it's been a dozy little whore from the moment started speaking and Merlin can't help but be pissed. His magic has spent the last ten years growing more and more uncontrollable to the point that he has had to leave his home to learn with an uncle who he doesn't know but a few words from a dickish prat has it as tame as a house cat. He doesn't not care how mind meltingly handsome 'the Prince' is it doesn't change the fact that he was going to hurt an innocent serving boy for being clumsy.

Merlin flinches as the guards grab him off Arthur they squeeze his arms tightly and Merlin knows that he's going to bruise. He glances up to the dark smile on Arthur's face and anger burns in his gut. Arthur sends Merlin a wink and his stomach recoils in disgust as his face heats. With a small gesture the guards start drag Merlin along, Merlin hisses as his knees drag across the floor and he struggles to get to his feet. His magic that sat still is buzzing under his skin ready to burst and attack the guard that are hurting him, but Merlin manages to get his feet under him which helps a little although Merlin can feel the blood that slowly drips from the grazes. Merlin is dragged to the dungeons and his magic stills for a second before growing even more manic. Merlin is too busy trying to calm his magic down that he doesn't realize that he is being tossed into a cell until he lands painfully on his shoulder.

Merlin struggles to get up, "wa-wait. Wait." the guards pause glaring at Merlin "How long am I going to be in here."

The guards laugh but don't answer.

"How long am I supposed to be in here?" Merlin repeats with more force, his arms ache and he is sure that it if he where to check he's going to have bruises from the way the guards manhandle him. a little more forcefully "You're here till the prince comes down to release you," the one guard growls out the other laughs at the way Merlin's face drops "But don't count on that being any time soon." the guards walk around the corner, Merlin can still hear them in the distance, it seems that they are the ones that are going to watch him tonight.

Merlin's magic whips around the cell filled with hot air but it does nothing Merlin knows that if he where to use magic to free himself from the cell he would be burn at the stake faster than he could blink. Groaning Merlin sits on the floor, back against the fall as he thinks about what got him sent here. He tried to slap the Prince of Camelot. Sure the Prince was being an obnoxious prat and was getting way to handsy but still it was his first day in Camelot and he tried to attack the Prince - surely that counts as some kind of treason. Biting at his lip Merlin wonders how long he's going to have to stay in the cell, it's clear that he's going to be staying the rest of the night he's already been pacing around the cell for hours. He knows that the Prince will free him when he's ready but how long will that be - days -weeks but the guards even said it probably wouldn't be any time soon. And what about Gaius was he informed of his arrest or is he just back in his chambers busy focusing on his tinctures and remedies.

Looking around Merlin takes a good look at the cell he's stuck in, it's all stone, the floors the walls. At the very top of the back wall is a little window, it's way to small so even if he found his way up there it's not like he could get out that way.

The sun sets and the already cold cell becomes freezing. Shivering, Merlin hopes that Gaius has go to sleep, he can't imagine that his Uncle would be all that worried about him - but still Merlin can't help but feel guilty that he's intruding on Gaius's life. He has taken over a bedroom encroaching on the old mans space he nearly killed him, saved him but has now forced him to be party of treason against his King which if he anyone ever discovers means that he will be sent do death at Merlin's side.

Shaking his head, Merlin battles the guilt that swarms him - he has made Gaius's life so much more complicated than it needed to be. His magic growls pulsing angrily his chest in clear disagreement with Merlin's line of thinking. Merlin soothes it absently resolving to stay out of his Uncle Gaius's way maybe looking for paid work other than his apprenticeship so that he can save money up and move into his own place.

Huddling in the corner far away from the dingy little window, Merlin grabs the thread bare blanket that lay on the floor of the cell. A lingering smell of sweat has him hesitant to uses it but as the wind whistles through the cell the choice is taken out of his hand. Merlin sighs as he wraps it around himself as he lies down tucking himself into a small ball on the cold stone. He has yet to figure out how to use his magic to keep himself warm every time he tries he ends up starting a fire. He hopes that Gaius would be willing to teach him some spells and ways to keep his magic under wraps.

The chattering of the guards makes it difficult for Merlin to sleep so he lies there for who knows how long before eventually exhaustion wins out and he's drifting off to sleep.

--

Merlin doesn't know what time he fell asleep last night but he wakes up this morning somehow colder than he was before. Light fills his cell so he knows that it is some time during the day but whether it's morning or further along in the afternoon he has no idea. Slowly Merlin tries to sit up and whimpers escape as pain flares all over his body. Merlin decides to take another look at his injuries they feel so much worse now and he doesn't know why. Starting with his knees, Merlin pulls the fabric out of his injuries, it's not bleeding anymore which is a good sign and there's nothing obviously wrong. He hopes that he Gaius will check over them as well just to put his mind at rest. Then he slowly shrugs his shoulders off his jacket, pain shooting through his arms as he does. There are two hand print shaped bruises darkening the skin just above his elbows, then Merlin looks at his left shoulder he moves the sleeve of his shirt he can see dark bruising and he can feel the pain that throbs but he doesn't know what he's done to his shoulder. He hopes that he hasn't done any serious damage because he doesn't want to be a burden for his uncle he wants to be able to help but he won't be able to do that with a broken shoulder. When the guards don't come to release him Merlin leans back against the wall he shuffles a bit to make sure he doesn't aggravate his injuries anymore -resigning himself to another long day in the prison cell.

Merlin rises to his feet at the sound of footsteps his heart fills with hope that it's Arthur and he's going to be released. His heart sinks as he's faced with Gaius. The old man looks at Merlin and the anger is written all over his face.

"You never cease to amaze me!"

Merlin smiles a little proud because he can admit that in the two days he's been in Camelot he's done nothing but surprise Gaius.

"Wipe that looks off your face it's not a good thing," Gaius narrows his eyes and Merlin drops his smile feeling like a kicked puppy, his magic tries to leap out of his chest but Merlin holds it in place knowing that Gaius would likely get even madder if that's possible, "The one thing that someone like you should do is keep your head down, and what do you do? You behave like an idiot."

Guilt hits Merlin hard, he looks down at the floor he can't help but think about what his mother would say if she knew what he's done.

He frowns, "I'm sorry." He keeps making his uncle's life harder without even trying, his uncle probably needed his help and instead he was sat here in jail because he tried to attack the prince - a part of him is still shocked that the blonde man was the Prince.

Gaius looks at Merlin in surprise, he had a whole speech prepared, his sister begged for him to help her son and he's only just now realizing how much help he needs. It's clear that Merlin needs to be kept away from Prince Arthur.

"You're lucky. I managed to pull a few strings to get you released."

Merlin lights up - a smile back on his face.

"Oh, thank you! Thank you!"

He's so glad he doesn't have to spend another night in the dungeons, Merlin can help but feel guilty as his magic reaches out prepared to attack his uncle as Gaius moves closer to unlock the cell door. He yanks his magic back and walks out his cell leaving the blanket in the corner for the next poor soul that's going to be locked in the cell. He has no idea why is reacting so strangely first with Arthur but again with Gaius he hopes its just getting used to being somewhere new and it will settle down soon because he is quickly growing tired of making sure his magic doesn't get out of control.

"Don't start celebrating just yet," Gaius smiles cruelly "You have to spend an hour in the stocks."

Merlin's smile drops, and Gaius actually laughs glad to see his young nephew humbled, he does hope that the punishment will teach him to stay out of trouble and far away from the Prince of Camelot.

Ducking his head, Merlin walks out of his cell and past Gaius, he knows that he should be grateful that Gaius freed him from the dungeons he really didn't want to spend another night bug he would much rather another night in the dungeons to being put in the stocks.

Chapter Text

Sat at his desk Arthur picks at his lunch. His mind is stuck on the boy who interrupted his training, he's torn between anger and shock never before has anyone stepped in-between himself and a person who had invoked his wrath. Not even Uther steps in, when he decides to teach Morgana a lesson- not that she ever learns it. Arthur picks at his vegetables - he leans more towards shock. Never before has he seen anybody let alone a peasant that beautiful. Arthur shakes his head beautiful doesn't even begin to describe it.

The peasant was something else, he stood a little taller than Arthur only an inch or two, but even with the extra height he feels smaller it could be how startlingly thin he is, but it makes Arthur want to keep him on his lap and keep him safe from the outside world. His Merlin has a messy mop of black hair, it looks like it had never seen a brush before but in away that Arthur can't help but describe as cute. 

Arthur knew in his early teens that the way he looked boys was the way he was supposed to look at girls - but he didn't much care. He didn't know there was anything wrong with it - he still doesn't think there is anything wrong with it but when he told his father. Memories of a time best left forgotten try to push their way forward. Arthur shakes his head in an attempt to clear it but finds himself stuck on the peasant - Merlin he said his name was. Arthur can't help but smile it's a very pretty name. There is something about Merlin Arthur doesn't understand, he calls to the dark possessive side of Arthur which has never happened before. For all the flings he has had in the past there has never been one that evokes such an emotional response from him. Everything in Arthur's being tells him that this boy - this Merlin is his. His Merlin. His pet. His to keep.  

He is shocked that his Merlin even dared to contradict him, but what's even worse is that his pet didn't even know who Arthur was. The way his blue eyes widened in shock. Arthur smiles he can't help but imagine what his eyes would look like wide and filled with tears, begging for release, squirming as Arthur denies it. Arthur hardens in his breeches he looks at his dinner and pushes it away as his cock demands attention. Just as he's about to start. The door to his chamber bangs open and Arthur throws his dagger. 

He knows that realistically if there was an assassin they wouldn't come through the door, and if they did they would be a lot more stealthy but it's fun and one can never be too careful. It embeds it's self into the wall near the head of non-other than Morgana. His cock deflated instantly and Arthur sighs shaking his head. Arthur picks up his second dagger glaring at her. For a second he considers throwing it, but he doesn't want to bother with the headache as she bitches and moans. 

"Arthur," she shrieks and he rolls his eyes, he should have known that she would cause him a headache either way.  

"What is it that you want, Morgana?" He could not care less about what ever pathetic problem she has now, he is planning his next steps for his pet - his Merlin. 

"Are you not going to apologize?" she folds her arms over her chest. Arthur laughs thinking that Morgana is joking but the look on her face does not change. Anger builds in his chest, these are his chambers and yet people think that they can come in unannounced and not suffer the consequences. 

"You should know better than to enter my chambers unannounced. Or has your memory left you." Arthur looks at her neck the faint scar from where Arthur last cut her shines. The ward takes a step back a hand reaching up to her neck, Arthur delights in the fear in her eyes. 

Arthur laughs "Calm down, Morgana. There is no need for dramatics. I was going to give you another lesson then I would already." For some reason Morgana stands even stiffer but the defiant glare in her eyes only burns brighter. Arthur looks down at his food trying to hold back his amusement. 

"Now why are you once again in my chambers uninvited." He watches as Morgana relax a little as she narrows her eyes on him. 

"Your father expects us to attend the feasts for this years celebrations." 

"Of course he does," Arthur rolls his eyes, he wonders if all that trouble sleeping has damaged her brain. "We are hosting this feast it is only right that we attend,"

Morgana huffs, shaking her head "Uther is hosting this feast. I, for one, cannot in good conscience celebrate the murder of innocent people."

Arthur holds back his sigh he doesn't understand why she can't just make things easy for once do something that is required of her without being difficult or at the very least without complaining to him about the problem.

 "Morgana there is a very simple solution to that," Morgana looks at him eyebrows scrunched in confusion "Just don't think about it," 

"Don't think about it. How can you be - be... so Callous." Morgana struggles to find a word for how absolutely detestable she finds him. 

Arthur shrugs as he rises form his chair and he has to give Morgana credit, she doesn't flinch. "What does it matter the purge was 20 years ago?"

"Are you serious? The days of the purge may be over but the people are still dying in the face of your father's tyranny." Arthur has half a mind to remind Morgana that what she speaks is treason but he wants to see how big a whole she is going to dig herself before he does. "Besides. How long is he going to keep punishing the people for what happen then?" She asks him.

Arthur is bored he suppresses a yawn. The dramatics are getting very tiring, very fast. Yes, his people are dying but that is their own fault they should obey the law. While Arthur knows that Magic is not the villain that his father makes it out to be - its still very dangerous and needs to be controlled. What the people need to understand is magic breaks the law and his father is well within his rights to execute people for their crimes.

"I imagine he will continue until the people learn to obey his laws and realize there is no place for magic in his kingdom. Or until Magic is complete eradicated which ever comes first." Arthur shrugs as though he doesn't care. 

Morgana opens her mouth to argue more but Arthur raises his hand to stop her. She takes a small step back. The angry passion in her eyes tempered by the growing fear, of what Arthur might do to her. She is finally beginning to understand that being Uther's ward only offers so much protection. 

"Morgana." Arthur sits back down in his seat "I am being patient but the fact is I don't care. Take your petty arguments up with my father if you must but the truth is your constant repetition is boring me. Oh I don't like the ladies of the court. Oh I disagree with the magic ban. Oh this - Oh that. When the simple truth is - I. Simply. Don't. Care."

Morgana looks at him hurt plain on her face "But -"

"MORGANA ENOUGH," Arthur yells slamming a hand on the table, she flinches back and falls silent. Just before a Arthur demands that she leaves his room heavy knocking at his door interrupts him.

"Enter," Arthur calls. Arthur is mildly surprised to see his father enter his chambers at such a late hour. Morgana stiffens and Arthur hides his smirk if she gets any stiffer she's going to break. He half hopes that she will start another argument with his father just so he has something entertaining to watch - now that she has completely ruined his meal.

"Hello father." He nods his head in greeting Arthur may not hold his father in high regards but he knows better than to show his disrespect outwardly like Morgana does. 

"Arthur, Morgana." Uther looks at the two, "Tomorrow, the Lady Helen will be arriving to welcome her I have organized a private meal. I expect that both to be in attendance as we welcome her to Camelot." 

Arthur nods, "Of course, Father." 

Morgana whips her head around glaring at Arthur in shock. Arthur offers her a small shrug 'Did she really expect him to agree with her petty complaints.' She turns to Uther. Arthur tries his best to hide his smirk - this is the petty drama that he was hoping for.

Morgana narrows her eyes on Uther, "I am not taking part in these celebrations."

Uther looks at his ward in shock before anger takes over his features "I am your guardian. You are my ward. I expect you to as I ask." 

Morgana goes to argue more but Uther cuts her off -

"No buts." He raises his hand, "Tomorrow you will be at my side to Welcome Lady Helen and the day after you will attend the feast. I will hear no more of your nonsense."

"The more brutal you are, the more enemies you will create." Morgana calls after him, Arthur shakes his head at the misguided attempt at getting the last word. Uther doesn't turn to acknowledge his ward he just let's the doors slam behind him as he leaves.

Chapter Text

Glaring at the small gaggle of children, Merlin tries to duck away from the flying rotting fruit, he groans as a ball of lettuce is breaks apart as it hits him on the chin. He's lost track of how long he has been in the stocks, it could be minutes could be hours despite the fact that Merlin knows that he is only in the stocks for a single hour. The only mercy is that his magic is content to sit and laugh at his predicament and not lash out at the surrounding people. His back aches from the position he's been forced into and the pain in his shoulder burns, Gaius gave it a cursory look and told him he was fine. Though Merlin resolved to make Gaius's life easier he cant help but think the physician is wrong. He did take a look at his knees and had Merlin clean them and wrap them. A rotting tomato hits him right in the forehead startling Merlin from his thoughts it slides down his face and Merlin groans. He looks around for who threw it and he's shocked to see the little girl he helped yesterday laughing with a whole basket filled with tomatoes sat at his feet. 

"Aurora," he calls out and the girl freezes she looks cocks her head to the side recognition in her eyes. 

"Merlin," she squeals, waving Merlin smiles and waves back as much as he can hoping that she will stop throwing rotten tomatoes now that she knows that it's him. He watches as that foolish hope die, Aurora grabs another rotten tomato she winds her arm back before throwing it hard. it splatters as it hits his forehead and Merlin growls. He has been betrayed, left to suffer the consequences of crimes that are not his burden to bear. As his nemesis watches on oblivious to the revenge he plots to seek. An apple glances of the board near his ear startling Merlin out of his dramatics. 

He's not really mad at Aurora when he was her age he would have loved to pelt people with rotten fruit, if he ever had a chance but his fake anger helps distract him from the pain and the humiliation that comes with being trapped in the stocks. Sighing in relief Merlin is glad to see that kids supply of fruit and vegetables have dwindled down to nothing. They scatter and Merlin hopes that that is the end but he knows that are likely going to find more food for them to throw.

"I'm Guinevere," Merlin jumps whacking his head off the plank of wood keeping him trapped. 

"Oh, god. I'm so sorry." 

Merlin shakes his head but causes just causes his more pain as his neck rubs against the wood, "No, its alright should pay more attention." 

"No." The lady shakes her head "It's my fault. I just wanted to introduce myself I'm Guinevere. but most people call me Gwen. I'm the Lady Morgana's maid."

Merlin looks at the lady, she seems very nice, if not a little awkward, he is just as awkward so he is in no position to judge. 

"I'm Merlin," he pushes his hand out of the stocks as much as he can, Gwen looks at him a little confused before she gently shakes his hand a small smile on her lips.

"Although, most people just call me Idiot." He struggles to keep his head up to look at Gwen. 

Gwen moves so she stands more in front of him, "No, no, no. I saw what you did. It was so brave. but it was a good thing you walked away, you weren't going to beat him."

Merlin snorts his magic whips around in his chest, it didn't even stir when Gwen walked up but the mere idea that Merlin would lose has it offended and ready to prove itself. He shoves it back down mentally lecturing it for being foolish. He looks at the puzzled look on Gwen's face an smiles. 

"Oh. I - I can beat him. 

Gwen frowns "You think so because Arthur is a lot like his father, he's a real rough, tough, destroy the world for fun kind of man and well - Gwen looks him um and down.

"What? " Merlin frowns 'destroy the world for fun, sure Arthur is an arse but he didn't seem that bad. 

Gwen hesitates fiddling with the basket in her hands "Well. You don't look like that," she says bluntly. 

"Thanks," merlin says unsure whether that was supposed to be a compliment or an insult; from the look on Gwen's face she wasn't all that sure whether it was a compliment or an insult either.

Deciding to break the tension Merlin gestures for Gwen to lean in closer. Gwen looks nervous but leans in anyway  

"I'm in disguise" he whispers. Merlin smiles as his poor joke is met with laughter. 

"Well either way im glad that you stood up to Arthur its about time some one did." Gwen offers Merlin a smile. 

"Yea. You thinks so," Merlin asks both him and his magic perking up as he realises that someone doesn't think what he did was a stupid mistake.  

Gwen nods "Yes I do Arthur's a bully. It was nice to see someone stand up to him."  

The children come back around the corner, Aurora has more rotten tomatos and he narrows his eyes on the little traitor, she sticks his tongure out at him in response. And he can't help but laugh, she's a cheeky little brat. 

"Well, Gwen it was nice meeting you but my fans await." 

Gwen nods laughing as she walks away heading futher into the markets. 

"On my mark," A child yells and Merin braces himself as the rotten fruit comes flying at him. His magic laughing at him once more.

Merlin doesnt know how long he was trapped in the stocks it was definitely longer than an hour. Even though his magic, spent most of the time buzzing and laughing at his predicament, it protected him from the worse of it, numbing the pain that runs through his back, shoulders and neck - when it became too much. The guard doesn't say anything when he unlocks the stocks and lets Merlin leave. 

"Thank you," Merlin groans as he stretches out, he feels several joint in his back pop and he makes a small noise of relief. The guard only grunts in acknowledgment not bothing with words. Merlin gives him a funny look, before walking back to the Physicians chambers. Exhaustion pulls at his body, between sleeping in the dungeons, spending hours in the stocks and using his magic to constantly ease his pain what ever energy he had is completely spent.

When he reaches Gaius's chambers, he doesn't bother with knocking, he just opens the door and walks in. 

"Merlin." Gaius calls out,"Is that you."

"Yes, Gaius." Merlin walks around the corner to see Gaius sat at the table a bowl in his hands and another one sat opposite him "They finally freed me from the stocks,"  

Gaius nods. "Go, clean off. There's a bucket of water in you room to wash. Then come back down we need to talk." Merlin sighs but nods, he knew this was coming. There is no escape, from the lecture that is about to happen.

Upstairs in his room Merlin looks around to see the bucket of water that Gaius mentioned on his small desk. He walks over and grabbing the cloth wipes away at all the rotten vegetables he has covering him. The cold water feels nice on his bruises, he struggles but manages to get all the food out of his hair, he is trying to be fast but at the same time he wants to savour the first wash he has had in a while. Once he is clean, Merlin strips off his clothes he leaves them in a ball next to the water. He will deal with them later, Merlin opens his cupboards and puts his once set of sleep clothes on, he doesn't plan to go anywhere but down stairs, he pulls on a pair of socks and leaves his room. He keeps his magic close against his chest. 

Gaius raises his eye brow but doesn't say anything as Merlin sits down front of him. He looks at the stew in the bowl and smiles he hasn't had anything to eat since his arrival in Camelot. Whilst his body is used to not eating for long periods of time, he is absolutely starving as he shovels the food into his mouth. Gaius clears his throat and Merlin flushes in embarrassment he forgot all about his manners in his hast to eat his food. 

"Merlin." Gaius sighs heavily, "What are we going to do with you? It had barely been a day before you nearly killed someone, expose your magic to that same person, Attack the prince of Camelot and of course get yourself arrested." Gaius lists off Merlin's misdeeds off and Merlin cringes into himself he has mentally got two hands holding his magic back it feels like every time his uncle talks his magic is trying to choose violence. "Your mother asked me to protect and guide you," Merlin flinches at the remind her of his mother he misses her something terrible. "But how exactly am I supposed to do that when you search for trouble, like a starving man searches for food. You need to keep your head low and avoid starting things with the nobles. You aren't in Ealdor anymore and their are consequences for your actions." 

Merlin bristles at the insinuation that Merlin has never dealt with consequences that's all he's spent his life doing suffering the consequences of just existing. In a time and place where his very existence is found to be a criminal offence. Gaius doesn't say anything else and Merlin feels horrible, he's in pain, he is tired and he wants to go to sleep. He doesn't wait for Gaius to send him upstairs he turns and goes back to his rooms as quickly as he can manage, he sits on his bed back against the wall his mind racing. It took him a day less than that before he was arrested, his mother is going to be so mad it's going to make the lecture gaius gave him look like a walk in the park. She'd be so disappointed but he has made a new friend. Gwen. He smiles Gwen seems to be quite nice although he can't judge her being awkward when he has a nasty habit of putting his foot in his mouth so often he's convinced it's the reason he's so clumsy. It's like his foot spend so much time in his mouth he forgets that he needs it to talk. 

Sighing, Merlin drags the wooden chair that sat at his tiny desk in the corner and uses it to block the door. Hating the fact that he doesn't have a lock. He stumbles into his bed, pain throbbing through his body, his arms his back his legs, he is 20 winters old but feels like he's older than his uncle.

Merlin lies on his bed, the mattress soft when compared to the stone floors of the dungeons and his little bed back home. The room is dark so dark that merlin can't see his hand in front of his face, every few minutes the clouds shift and the faint glow of the moon peeks through his room but it only serves to remind him how alien this place is. How far away from home he really is. Merlin closes his eyes his magic burns under his skin, and the two are of one mind, they really miss home.  

Chapter Text

Arthur walks into the Citadel he glares at the knights stood at either side of him, he argued against the security when his father demanded him to have guard it has been days since the witch threatened his life, there is little chance that the old hag is actually going to do anything. However, his father did not agree and so Arthur is stuck with Sir Elis and Sir Bedwyr following him around. He walks through the Citadel it's loud there are knights training on the green and there are servants everywhere some are running trying to be on-time for what ever job they are doing but the majority are watching the knights train easily wowed by pathetic performances he's about to take over the poor excuse of training that he's sees when a messy mop of dark hair distracts him. 

Arthur turns and he can't hide his grin his little pets come back out to play. Turning away from the knights training, Arthur fails to hide his grin, he follows his little Merlin as he walks across the square. Arthur sees the exact moment that Merlin notices him, the boy stiffens and continues walking a way. Well, we can't have that.

"How's your knee-walking coming along?" He calls out, the knights behind him start laughing and it raises Arthur's ire. He glares at both of them, and they fall silent, Arthur takes a few steps forwards leaving the knights behind him. Smiling when he realizes that Merlin has stopped. 

"Look I've told you your an arse," Merlin turns around to face Arthur and Arthur can't help but smile his time in the dungeons and stocks has clearly done nothing for his defiance. 

"I just didn't realize you were a royal one," The knights stood behind him takes a step forward, Arthur shoots them both he will not have his pet be man handled by knights. 

Merlin takes a step a back as he notices the advancing guards "Oh, what are you going to do? Get your daddy's men to protect you?"  

Arthur lets out a little growl, he does not need others to protect him he is more than capable of protecting himself. The mischief in his Pet's eyes has him biting back a grin. He takes a few steps forward delighting in the flush that spreads across his pet's cheeks as he invades his pets personal space.

"I could take you apart with one blow," Arthur smirks as his pets ears turn an alarming shade of red. He expects his pet to try and hit him like the last time but he is pleasantly surprised as his pet takes a step forward. 

His blue eyes are alight with mischief "I could take you apart with less than that."

Arthur looks down at his pets lips, he winks and his pet opens his mouth in shock. 

"You think so," Arthur smiles he wants nothing more than to lean down to claim his pets mouth but he needs to take his time, he wants to watch his merlin beg for his attention.  

Merlin huffs and pulls his jacket off, he lets it drop to the floor and he holds his fists up. Arthur struggles to contain his amusement his pet is such a precious little thing but if his pet wants a fight then he will oblige him. 

"Here you go," Arthur grabs a mace from another knight and hands it to his pet, Merlin scrunches his nose in confusion and Arthur takes a step back, how is he supposed to battle his pet when his pet has no idea what he even doing.  

Merlin swings the mace nearly dropping it and Arthur pretends that he isn't about to die from laughter. His pet is precious. Arthur swings, he may have wanted to teach his pet a lesson but he doesn't want to hurt him not seriously. Arthur pulls his punches, Merlin takes several steps back and Arthur advances slowly. He swings and misses forcing Merlin back towards the market stalls. 

Merlin trips backwards over a box and falls dropping the mace and Arthur ducks his head to hide his wince knowing that it would surely hurt.

Arthur watches as his pet's eyes glow gold seconds before his mace gets stuck on the hooks behind him. He frowns there's no way. He yanks his mace hard freeing it. He takes a step forward prepared to swing again when he trips over, he watches the gold fade from his pets eyes. What a devious little pet. He's not even being subtle about it. Merlin jumps to his feet and instead of picking up his own lost mace he plucks the mace right out Arthur's hand and starts swinging it. 

"Do you want to give up?" His pet asks and Arthur can't contain his snort of amusement. He shakes his head, he may of never intended to hurt his pet in the fight but sure wasn't looking to him either. 

Arthur tries to get up but manages to get his foot stuck inside a bucket and is sent flying, he watches Merlin laugh as the gold glows in his eyes. Arthur glances around subtly he and his pet are going to have words about his blatant display of magic. His pet moves to swing at him with the mace but falters at the last second. Merlin hesitates looking at something in the distance

Taking his chance, Arthur picks up the broom lying on the floor and uses it to swipe his pets legs out from beneath him. The small scream of pain is hurts his ears as he holds the broom at his neck like he would with a sword when fighting his knights. He didn't want to hurt his pet not seriously. 

The two guards come running, they move to grab his pet and Arthur growls 

"Do not touch him." The guards move back their hands raised placatingly, he looks at the knights "Leave us." 

"But Sire -

"I said leave do you really want to make me repeat myself for a third time." Arthur cuts off what ever pathetic argument that sir Elis has to say. He watches as both knights pale before leaving. Nodding at the knights retreating forms, Arthur makes a mental note to have a new guard by the morrow. Knights that do not follow orders are not knights that are going to make it long around him.

Arthur holds his hand out for Merlin to grab. Doubt swirls in his pet's eyes, but he grabs Arthur's hand, letting out a soft gasp as Arthur lifted him to his feet. Once again he invades his pets space but he needs to talk to his pet. As much as Arthur would love to claim Merlin as his prince Consort, he knows his father would never go for it. He could claim him as a royal bedwarmer but much like the position of Manservant it is to restrictive if he wants to use Merlin's magic to serve his needs. After all if there was a magic user loyal to him, he could use their magic to protect himself from other sorcerers like that Old lady who threatened him at the start of the week. A light goes of in Arthur's head, Personal assistant, it's a role typically only reserved for nobles but it would be perfect for Merlin, it would give him an excuse to go everywhere with Arthur, and offers a level of protection to his pet when he is not around. 

Arthur wants Merlin to have sense of free will, he wants to give his pet the illusion of choice - if he is being honest there isn't one not really, his pet will be at his side one way or another. But he would prefer his pet to be a willing participant rather than be forced or coerced.

"Come with me, pet," Arthur drags Merlin along. 

"Wa-wait wait you giant bloody prat," Merlin brings them both to a stop "I need to grab my jacket." Arthur pauses as Merlin doesn't let go of his hand but bends over to grab the brown jacket that he forgot about in the fight. 

Walking back to his chambers Arthur doesn't let go of Merlin's hand and Merlin doesn't try to pull away. Normally Arthur wouldn't bother - peasants and nobles know better than to spread rumors about him but this - this could kill his precious pet before Arthur has a chance to play with him. And he would never risk his pets safety like that. 

The doors to Arthur's chambers swing open and he smiles pride beating in his chest as his pets mouths opens in shock and awe at his room. He can't help but feel a bit smug his pet always seems to have something to say but Arthur has rendered him speechless. The doors fall shut behind him and it makes his pet flinch violently, he makes a note - 'pet doesn't like sudden loud noises.'

"Merlin," Arthur forces his peasant to look at him, "I know,"

Arthur frowns as the color drains from his pets face, he takes a step forward but his pet takes two steps back his breathing becoming harsh. Arthur frowns and he steps forward until Merlin is pinned up against a wall. He strokes a hand his pet's face. his pet flinches and Arthur hates it there are many things that his pet should be afraid of but Arthur hurting him should never be one. 

"Breathe, pet" he holds his pets face in his hand, "I'm not going to turn you in,"

His pet opens his eyes they are a startling blue brighter than the summer skies and wet with tears. "Y-y-you won't," 

Arthur shakes his head, "No pet but if I'm going to keep you safe, I am going to need something in return."

His pet's eyes go wide with fear and Arthur chuckles, "Don't worry pet it would be nothing untoward."

His pet eyes him suspiciously Arthur smiles "I promise when you join me in my bed it will because you want to pet nothing more. Do you understand?" Merlin nods and Arthur is relieved "Good. What I want from you is for you to become my Personal Assistant,"

 "What do you think? Can you become my Personal assistant," Merlin nods. 

"Words"

"Yes, Arthur," Arthur smiles he tries to move back but Merlin practically whines as he feels something wrap around him, there is nothing on him, it feels wild, chaotic but also soothing it buzzes over his skin and Arthur realizes it's his pets magic. Arthur leans in closer he's surprised his pet is being so pliant, normally its all defiance and witty retorts. The bell in the tower rings and Arthur sighs, he wants to stay here with Merlin but his father demanded his presence to greet Lady Helen and he can't disobey such direct orders.

"I will let you go for now pet," Arthur leans in, he tilts Merlin's head back offering him a dark smirk. "But I expect to see you later tonight at the feast. And if I were you I wouldn't try to run," he doesn't really think his pet will run but he needs to be warned. 

"O- or what," Merlin tries to snark. 

"Or," Arthur takes a mocking bite and his smirk is dark as his eyes "Or I will have to search for you and when I do I'll do what I must to make sure you never leave my side again." Arthur loves the way his pet's eyes are wild with fear and curiosity. A big part of him wants to say screw the meet and greet and claim his pet now but he knows that his Merlin is nowhere near ready for that. 

"Until next time Pet," Arthur lets go of Merlin's arms and he smiles his Pet's magic clings to him. He adores the pretty flush that decorated his Pet's skin as he leans in closer. His Merlin takes a step back. 

"I- urm. I," Merlin stutters before practically fleeing the room.

Arthur watches as his pet runs away from him, he forces himself to stand where he is. The doors to his chambers slam shut and Arthur can't help the annoyance that rises from his chest. 'That is twice now my pet has ran from me.' He shakes his head picking up the thin brown jacket that his Merlin left behind in his haste. He swears that once his pet becomes his personal assistant there will not be a third.

Arthur knows he's pushing his luck the Lady Helen will be arriving any minute. So leaving his pet's jacket hanging off the arm of his chair, he exits his chamber. He likely should have changed into something a little more formal but Arthur can't find it in himself to care it is a simple meet and greet of a singer.

Chapter Text

Arthur makes it at the castle entrance just in time to watch as Lady Helen and her guards come into view. 

"Your late," his father Growls. Arthur bristles at the tone and ignores the smug look Morgana shoots him, from the other Side of Uther. 

"Apologies, father it was unavoidable but I am here now." 

Arthur glares at the back of his Father's head, he takes a deep breath and puts a impassive look on his face, it doesn't do well for other member of Nobility to see malcontent amongst the royal family. 

The carriage stops and Uther is walking down the stairs a smile on his face. A servant comes round and opens the carriage door. Uther holds a hand out to help the lady Helen down the stairs, and even Arthur can admit the noble is a beauty, its hair is pinned up curls bouncing delicately framing the face, a long blue dress that does well to not wash out the pale skin. Its clear that Lady Helen has dressed to impress and if the look on his father's face is anything to go by it seems the lady has impressed his father. 

"Lady Helen." Uther guides her down the carriage steps "Thank you so much for coming to sing at our celebrations."

The lady smiles up at Uther "The pleasure's all mine."

"Tell me, how was your journey?" 

The lady sighs, "Oh the time it took sire." Uther ducks his head a little and places a kiss on the lady Helen's hands. 

Morgana makes a choked noise and Arthur glares at her for her complete lack of decorum. Of course kissing the hand of a lady was always a norm of polite greeting but it was one that his father had never took part in before, as a widower he was exempt from such actions. He narrows his eye on Lady Helen there is something wrong her, his father is always a polite and courteous host but this is like nothing he's seen before.  

"Let me introduce you," Uther turns, "This is my son Prince Arthur Pendragon," Arthur offers the lady a polite bow. Arthur knows he should say something to Welcome the noble but he remains silent. Arthur doesn't miss the anger in Uther's eyes but he dismisses it, his father does not scare him not anymore. "And this is my ward the Lady Morgana," 

Morgana does a small curtsy "I am excited to hear you sing at the feast tomorrow night." 

"Thank you." the lady nods "It is always an honor to sing for those in the royal courts."

"Come now." Uther offers the lady his elbow, she takes it, "I'll have a servant show you to your rooms and I invite you to join me and my family for a private meal tonight. 

"Oh, thank you, Sire. Your generosity truly knows no bounds," Uther follows at the Lady Helen's side as one of the servants guides the noble to its rooms. 

Morgana and Arthur wait for the Uther and the lady Helen to leave before making their own way up the stairs. Morgana turns around to look at Arthur before she can even open her mouth Arthur is walking off - intending to go back to his own rooms. After all he needs to come up with an argument to get his father to agree to a peasant becoming his personal assistant. 

"Arthur. Arth- " Arthur turns around, slamming Morgana into the closest wall one hand at her throat, a sick smile plays on Arthur's lips as he sees the wild fear in Morgana's eyes. 

"Art-" she gasps struggling for breath, she claws at his hand struggling to pull him off her throat her struggles only make Arthur clamp down harder.  

"No, Morgana" Arthur shakes his head in mock disappointment, "It is time for you to listen. You are once again pushing your boundaries, You are getting on my last nerve and it stops now. You may be my fathers ward but you are not exempt from my wrath," 

Arthur watches as tears roll down her cheeks. "Do you understand?" 

Morgana nods her head as much as she can whilst trapped in Arthurs hold. Arthur lets go and Morgana splutters, Arthur watches her struggle for breath. He hopes that now Morgana will listen because he is getting more and more tired of repeating himself. She is kneeling on the floor glaring up at Arthur hatred in her eyes, but Arthur lets his darkness show on his face, he takes delight as his father's ward lowers her eyes to the floor wordlessly admitting defeat. 

Leaving Morgana on the floor, Arthur walks back to his chambers glad to see that the normally full corridors are empty. He does not care to wonder where the servants are - he is only glad that there was nobody around to watch another one of his fights with Morgana. They almost always get back to his father and then his father goes on one rant of another about propriety - as though Arthur is actually going to listen to him.

Arthur nods to the guard that stands the bottom of the steps that leads up to the Royal Wing. Arthur picked Sir kay out himself as those other two knights were quickly demoted down to border patrol, Arthur does not care to have such cowardly knights guarding him. 

--

Arthur enters his chambers, he can see his pet's jacket hanging off the arm of his chair, where he left it. He's pleased to see that his manservant hadn't touched it when he was cleaning. Arthur paces around his chambers he wants Merlin as his personal assistant - it with give his pet free reign of the castle and an excuse for Arthur to take him everywhere without judgement. 

Now there are only two ways Arthur could see his father giving Merlin a position in the royal household, one would be Merlin saving his life but Arthur puts the thought out of his mind he is not going to create a dangerous situation for himself on the off chance his pet will be coordinated enough to save him. His pet may have magic but Arthur needs to see it in action he wants to know what his pet can do beyond petty palor tricks before he puts his life in his pet's hands.

Arthur's line of thought gets completed derailed he can't help but replay the conversation he had with his pet. The way his Merlin whined for Arthur's attention, the pretty flush that he tried so desperately to hide. His magic wrapping around Arthur purring with want. The panic in his eyes when he realised how hard he was it had Arthur growing hard as well. Oh, how he wants to go back and force his pet to come from his words alone. Arthur shakes his head groaning. He ignores the growing hardness in his breeches he needs to figure out a way to keep his pet around. Then he can have all the fun he wants. 

He needs to focus the only other way is if Merlin is secretly a Noble. Which is doubtful he has seen his pet, while he is a beauty that rivals the most sought after ladies of the court it's obvious with the way he holds himself that Merlin is no noble. But a light goes of in his head his pet is the ward of the court physician, which might work out in his favor if Morgana is a member of the royal family without having any blood ties then Merlin can be declared a noble as well despite being peasant - born. The Wylt family was a well known noble family back in his grandparents time although unfortunately now it's only Gaius left but still his father could not argue that it is improper. A plan in place Arthur sits at his desk, he still has proposals to review and he might as well do it now while he has the time.

He goes down to the meal, glad to see lady Helen has not yet arrived he is once again verging on lateness but unlike last time his father says nothing just glares as Arthur takes his seat at his left, Morgana is already seated one placement down on his right, she offers him a passive smile but doesn't say anything. 

"Ah Lady Helen please sit," Uther gestures to the empty seat between him and Morgana, "I'm so happy you could join us tell me was the room to your liking."

"Oh, sire the room was more than perfect. The lady greets Arthur and Morgana with a small curtsey and nod in their direction as it takes its seat. It's seems as though that the lady only has eyes for the king. 

Arthur studies the ladies appearance it has gotten changed which is to be expected, no one would want to attend a dinner with the king wearing the clothes they have been travelling in - it sets a bad precedence. The dress worn before was fancy but clearly more practical for travelling but this dress it wears verges on obscene. He sees Morgana who is on her best behaviour look at the dress with distaste. The neck line is low enough that everything threatens to fall out. The purple dress has gold floral embroidery, making it look incredibly fancy. But it's clear that the lady is only trying to attract the King's attention. Arthur rolls his eyes the lady Helen is in no way subtle with her intentions. It is not the first vulture to try and trick his father into marriage. No, doubt it won't be the last either. But the brazen display disgusts him, but when Arthur glances over at his father the man seems besotted whether because he is falling fornthe lady's foolish attempts of seduction or because he is a massive fan of the Lady's singing. Arthur is not entirely sure but he knows that he doesn't like it.

"Lady Helen would you do us the honour of a private performance to night." Uther reaches out for the lady's hand.

Either the lady Helen didn't notice which Arthur finds unlikely or the noble is toying with his father as it pulls away instead reaching for its goblet. 

It takes a sip "I'm sorry sire I can't thank you enough for the generosity you have shown me but I am afraid you will have to wait until tomorrow."

"You deny me," Uther pulls his hand back a little shocked but in no way angry. Arthur hides his shock behind a fakes smile never before l has he seen his father be rejected and react pleasantly. 

"I am sorry, Sire," the noble shakes it's head, "I am saving my self for to the feast tomorrow will everyone be there."

"Who would dare miss it?" Uther replies.

Arthur notes the hardness in his father's voice and he watches feeling smug as Morgana stiffens in fear. She has not said a word all dinner and Arthur must admit he forgot that she was even there at all. This is the first time in recent years that Morgana has quietly done as she was told, Arthur hopes that the trend continues.

The food comes out but Arthur finds it all entirely unappetising. He picks at the food forcing himself to eat it starting with the pork but watching his father and the lady Helen flirt and dance around one another puts him in an entirely foul mood. Watching the way the noble taunts his father, begging for attention like a desperate bitch and his father behaving entirely besotted put Arthur on edge made even worse with Morgana who while hasn't said anything has a smug smile on her face. 

He wished that the two would have had their meal alone. At least that way he didn't have to watch as some peasant - born Lady flirts with his father. Picking at his potatoes, Arthur holds back a sigh he could have finished his meal by now and already be looking for his Pet. He has heard a few whispers that the court physician has now got a ward who is staying in the physician chambers. Hopefully it's his pet although that might not be great the physician has a deep seated hatred for Arthur although he doesn't know why. He can't remember doing anything to personally offend it, in fact Arthur rarely ever goes to see the court physician. 

At long last the farce of a private meal is over and Uther dismisses both Arthur and Morgana before offering the Lady Helen a guide back to her rooms. 

Walking back to his rooms Arthur wishes more than anything that he could forget that disaster of a private meal. He comforts himself with the reminder that t

Tomorrow he will see his pet at the feast. 

Chapter Text

Merlin ran from Arthur's chambers embarrassment clinging to him as his magic begs that they go back. He can't stop thinking about Arthur the way he kept touching him, grabbing him it makes his face heats, the way he felt safe despite the darkness in Arthur's eyes. Shaking his head, he tries to focus but he has no idea what he's going to do. Gaius can not find out that Arthur knows - if he does Merlin shudders in fear, he has no idea what Gaius would do but he knows it wouldn't be good. Hell, he knows he's already in trouble. Just before Arthur took him down in the mace fight he saw his uncle in the street watching, the look of anger makes Merlin a little nervous to go back. He knows that his uncle saw his magic.

He walks down the corridor, he is Arthur's personal assistant now he has no idea what that entails but at least now he has paid work and considering that it's a position in the royal household, he should make a decent wage enough for him to hopefully move out of Gaius's chambers and into one of the houses in the lower town. Merlin walks down the corridors he has only been here for a few days but he's slowly finding his way back to his rooms without magic to help him. 

He gets to the door and doesn't bother knocking, Gaius may not like him very much but this is still his home for the time being. He sits at the table but Gaius isn't here, he wonders where he is. When he's going to be coming back. Just as Merlin gets up from his chair deciding that he will wait for Gaius in his rooms, the doors open. 

"Merlin. MERLIN." Gaius yells and Merlin flinches definitely angry then. 

"Here Uncle Gaius," Merlin calls back as Gaius comes around the corner. Merlin takes a step back he can feel the anger radiating of Gaius and he knows he fucked up. 

"How many times must we have this same argument, Merlin" Gaius's voice is cold, it makes merlin flinch. Magic must be studied, mastered and Used for good." 

Merlin keeps his head bowed, there was nothing bad about what he did, he was defending himself - the only way he knows how. Ok that might not be entirely true he may of started this fight but only because Arthur started it first. But he doesn't dare say that, not to his uncle. 

"Not for idiotic pranks" Gaius glares at him.

"It wasn't a stupid prank, he needed to be taught a lesson." Merlin speaks up 

Gaius stills looking at Merlin, his face turning red with anger. 

"A LESSON," he yells and Merlin flinches back, he struggles to keep his magic under control, it wants nothing more than to get rid of the threat. "And tell me, Merlin. What exactly are you going to do if Arthur discovered your Magic?" Gaius sneers he can't believe his nephew would be so stupid using magic in plain sight of everyone. 

Shaking Merlin takes a step back, he can't let Gaius know that Arthur already knows. He has no idea what his uncle would do but if the look on his any indication, it might be his final straw and he will be kicked out. 

"Got nothing to say," Gaius sneers. 

Merlin shakes his head. Gaius laughs and shakes his head, Merlin winces. The laughter is cold and harsh a stark difference to the way his mom would laugh. 

"You know what. Go to your room," 

Merlin recoils in shock. 

"What-" 

"Do not argue with me, boy. Now, go upstairs to your room," Gaius yells pointing at the door.

Merlin paces around his small room, it feels too small, too constrictin, too much like a cage. Merlin sends his fist straight into the wall, he feels his hand click and pain blooms in his knuckles. Hissing, he picks at the flappy parts of his skin, watching as his knuckles bleed, bruises already forming and his hand swelling. He wiggles his fingers relishing in the pain that flares in his hand his mind feeling clear.  

He sits on his bed glaring at the door. He misses home, misses his mother and Will, and he hates how all he seems to do is make Gaius angry. Getting off the bed, he starts pacing once more thinking about how he swore to himself that he try and make Gaius's life easier but here he is trapped in his room unable to leave. All because he used magic in a mace fight with Arthur Merlin shakes his head. His magic is all he's got, take that away and what's he left with, Nothing. His magic in his chest starts purring trying to soothe Merlin and for the most part it works being being trapped in his room is starting to get to him, there's nothing to do, no books, no parchment, nothing. 

The hours go by as Merlin sits on his bed, he knows that if Gaius to walk in hell would rain down but he doesn't care all that much. He starts playing with his magic making shapes from the elements, he makes dragons, and butterflies, unicorns, and wolves. He tries to make his mother's face in the water, but it's too difficult for him, the details all wrong. He is going to figure it out because judging by Gaius's behaviour today, Merlin has a feeling he's going to spend a lot of time locked up in his room.

he's long past hunger he would have thought that Gaius would have brought him something to eat but he didn't. Merlin hopes that he forgot because it's one thing to send him up to his room like he's an unruly child but deny him any sort of food is just cruel. His magic fills the room it's angry but its also happy to stretch out without being so confined. 

Merlin watches as the sun sets, he has spent nearly the entire day in his room, he has spent most the time thinking about Arthur and his magic. He can't help it, Arthur is a prat, he's an arse he seems so overwhelming egotistical that is a surprise that he can get his head through doors. And sure he's handsome, Merlin has eyes and there is no way he can deny it but there's also the fact that he knows about Merlin's magic and He has promised to keep it secret. It confuses him. His magic is completely taken with Arthur but both Gaius and Gwen have warned him of the prince. Merlin can see the danger that lurks in his eyes but he isn't afraid there is no Spidey sense like there was with Gaius. Shaking his head Merlin pulls his boots off and starts getting ready for bed, Arthur is an enigma and is going to take him longer than a few hours for him to figure it out. 

He lies down in bed trying to go to sleep, still no closer to understanding his Arthur problem but at least his magic for once just as tired as he is. He stares at the door, as he tries to go to sleep. 

--

Gasping for breath Merlin fights against the bonds that keep him strung up. His heart burns in his throat as his magic lashes out at everything surrounding him. The crowds cheers their hateful words fill his ears and tears stream down his face. Panic claws at his throat, he tries to move but he can't he tries free himself but its no use. His arms burn with the stretch, and tears roll down his face. The horn blows and Merlin flinches as the doors burst own. 

"Kill the traitor," Uther yells and Merlin tries to fight the bonds once more to no avail. 

No. No.no.no.no. please no. Please. No. 

His magic lashes out blindly, as the executioner lights the pyre. Heat licks at his feet and Merlin whimpers crying out in pain. 

'I don't want to burn. Please. I don't want to burn. I haven't hurt anyone. Please I'm not bad. I'm not a monster.' his pleas fall on deaf ears he looks at the crowd teir faces filled with joy as they watch him burn. The falmes burn hotter now, they are climbing up his legs, they melt his skin for a second Merlin looks down he shrieks he watches as his skin melts watches as his bones turn black- 

merlin 

The skin falling off his bones 

Merlin 

Flames climbing higher pain exploding in his every nerve. 

MERLIN 

His magic is screaming or maybe it's him he can't tell. 

MERLIN 

He bolts up out his bed, everything starts crashing around him. Jumping he looks around the room in panic, the once tidy area becoming a mess in a matter of seconds. He looks down at his body still expecting to see the flames eating away at him but there's nothing. His limbs look exactly the same. 

A dream. It was just a dream. Merlin coaxes his frantic magic back into himself it's just as shaken and terrified as he is. Sighing he lies back down, he is way to awake to sleep but He sighs trying to lie back down he is exhausted between doing deliveries for Gaius and his second run in with Arthur Merlin shakes his head too tired to even think about it. 

"Merlin," a voice calls out Merlin turns over expecting to see Gaius their angry about being woken up but the old man is no where to be seen. 

"Merlin," it calls again. He groans and tries to stay in bed but when his magic starts buzzing, pulling him, where, Merlin doesn't know. 

He gets out bed groaning, his head aches from the fast movement. Pulling on his boots, Merlin hears the voice call for him again, and again, and again. He needs to know what this voice is, what it wants with him. And its clear that he won't be allowed to rest until he does. 

Merlin finds himself in an old forgotten part of the castle. Cobwebs hanging from the ceiling and tapestries covered in dust. His magic pulls him along but Merlin takes his time promising that he will take the time to look around. He follows the staircase down, and down, and down. Merlin loses track of how long it takes before he reaches the bottom of the stairs, he's out of breath and exhausted, but he needs to know what brought him here he's already gotten out of bed. He needs to see it through. 

Merlin walks along the path the stone walls becoming more jagged, more rocky, more natural the futher he goes, he can feels the magic burning its not his but it feels familiar, like a childhood memory he cant quite remember. 

Gasping in shock, Merlin walks forward as the narrow pathway opens up to a massive cavern. He continues walking forward not noticing the giant drop until his foot is halfway over the edge until the rocks start to give way under him. He jumps backwards.

'Note to self giant ledge dont fall off it,' Merlin sticks his head over the edge, all he can see is a looming darkness he can't see the bottom there is a very long. 

"MERLIN." a voice laughs in the open abyss. Merlin can't see anything, he lets his magic free but it can't tell him what he's looking for. 

"Where are you?" Merlin can feel the magic in the room swell; his own magic in front of him ready to go on the defensive.  

He jumps back as a creature flies in front of him. The beast loops back and lands on a rock that Merlin didn't notice before. Merlins jaw opens in shock he can hardly believe it. A dragon that rivals the size of the castle sits on its perch, Merlin is in awe it's a beautiful creature, scales a shimmery gold. The dragon reminds him much of the Pendragon crest. He wwonders how a creature so big could be put down here. He makes a subtle glance to the entrance behind him there is no way he fit through the door.  

"How small you are for such a great destiny?" Merlin is startled from his thoughts by the dragon's voice. 

"Wait.? What? " Merlin looks at the dragon nose scrunched in confusion. "What do you mean? What Destiny?"

"Your gift, Merlin." The dragon rolls his eyes. "It was given to you for a reason."

"So there is a reason?" he asks, hope blooming in his chest, his magic is having fun exploring the cave but still perks up in excitement at the dragons words. He would never admit it but he was always worried that he was a mitake - that his magic was wrong. It never mattered what he was trying to do Merlin always managed to find a way to screw it up and it was always other people who payed the price.

The Dragon dips his head "Arthur is the once and Future King who will unite the lands of Albion." Merlin stills as his magic hits him square in the chest, the dragon huffs as Merlin tries to settle it. 

"He will face many threats from friend and foe alike." 

Merlin looks at the dragon with disappointment he can see where this is going already. Arthur has already demanded that he becomes his personal assistant so that he can have Merlin doesn't even know what - 

"No. No." He shakes his head, "you've got this wrong." This can't be his only purpose to be Arthur's pet and keep him safe from magic. 

The golden dragon huffs, "There is no right or wrong, only what is and what isn't." 

"But-" Merlin tries to argue.

"None of us choose our destiny Merlin," the dragon shifts around on his perch, "and none of us can escape it."

The dragon flies off and Merlin frowns that can be it, "Stop. Please I need to know more." Silence greets him and Merlin huffs the one being that knows about his magic is this dragon and all he does if offer cryptic riddles that do nothing to help him understand. He sighs as he walks back through the tunnels to his rooms. Knowing that tommorow is going to be a long day. 

Chapter Text

Light coming through his window wakes Merlin from his sleep. He groans and tries to go back to sleep a small part of him is surprised that there is no banging on the door with knights calling for his head. He sits up, he groans because now he really does have to be Arthur's personal assistant what ever that is. Maybe it won't be so bad, he just needs to get Arthur to stop doing all the touching and grabbing that he has been, it makes it so hard to think and his magic so hard to control. His magic that is so tired, from playing around in the caves that it just sits their in his chest pulsing along to the sound of his heart beat.

Merlin gets out of bed, the bruises on his arms have mostly faded even the one on his shoulder is a lot better, there are still the occasional twinges and ache but mostly it's fine. He pulls his boots on and goes down stairs, he hopes that Gaius is in a better mood than he was yesterday. 

"Morning Gaius." Merlin greets his uncle, he maybe tired but after last night he feels a little more even-footed. The dragon may not have answered all of his question - that's a stretch the dragon didn't actually answer any of his questions but he did offer some amount of help.

"Morning," Gaius reply is curt, it makes Merlin frown but Merlin doesn't say anything Gaius has every right to be angry, every time he uses his magic he puts Gaius life at risk. Uther doesn't discriminate against magic users and their sympathizers - to him hiding a magic user is just as bad as magic itself. Wincing, Merlin runs a hand through his already messy hair, he needs to be more careful with his magic. 

"Look. Gaius I know your angry." Merlin starts he is sorry he said as much yesterday but Gaius still can hardly look at him. 

"ANGRY." Gaius yells and Merlin flinches. "Angry doesn't cover it." 

Merlin is silent he has no idea where to look whether he should look at the floor or directly at Gaius. What would be considered rude what wouldn't.

"I am furious I have no words. You are supposed to be keeping your head down but all you do is go out and cause trouble and chaos." 

Merlin wants to argue but he doesn't, he is not going to defend his actions. The first time he was protecting a servant, Arthur was going to throw a dagger at him and nobody else was going to stop it so he did. And the second time he will admit was stupid especially considering that now Arthur knows that he has Magic but what was he supposed to do let Arthur take his head of with the mace. Merlin is quite attached to his head, and he isn't going to let some prattish prince change that.

"Honestly what would your mother think?" Gaius asks arms folded.

The words startle Merlin out of his thoughts. He frowns because Gaius is out of line, he has no right to throw his mother back into his face. His magic prickles under his skin and the dark thought crosses his mind. 'You should have let him fall.' 

Merlin recoils in shock, Gaius mistakes it as a reaction to his words and has the decency to look a little guilty but not enough to apologize, "Look. Merlin your mother asked that I protect you. Please can you make it a little easier and stop starting fights with the royal family. 

Merlin nods, "Of course Gaius I'm sorry." He still horrified by his thoughts he shoves it down, pretending like it never happened. Merlin bites his lip he apologized yesterday before Gaius sent him to his room, like he was a child. Today though it seems like the apology was enough to cold the old man down, Merlin is relieved he doesn't know how much longer he could stand there being yelled at by Gaius without doing or saying something he would likely regret. Like telling him how much he regrets saving his life.

"It's ok, my boy." Merlin stiffens at the name, but Gaius remains oblivious.

"Now do you want breakfast, I have a few deliveries I need you to make. But it would be better if you had something to eat first." Gaius sits down at the tree able making himself a sandwich looking at Merlin expectantly. 

Merlin forces himself not to react. How can he. Merlin has no words. Anger pools in his gut and his magic sparks responding to his anger. Merlin takes a step back from Gaius as he soothes it back down letting it rest next to his heart. How can he stand their yelling, making Merlin feel absolutely awful, and then go on like nothing happened. Asking for favors, pretending that he cares when yesterday he denied him food. Merlin shakes his head he can't - he doesn't understand it. He needs to leave before he starts another argument.

"It's ok. I'm not hungry. I'll go and deliver these though," Merlin studies the bottles they both have labels on it, written in Gaius messy scrawl, the pale pink elixir is for the Lady Morgana and the black one is for the Lady Helen. 

"Merlin are you sure i know my yelling was harsh but its only because I worry. I fear what would happen if anyone else where to discover your magic.

Something rings false with Gaius words but Merlin refuses to acknowledge it. His mother was always worried about Merlin's magic and it being discovered but she never made him feel the way that Gaius does. 

Merlin turns to face Gaius and forcing a smile "Seriously, Gaius It's ok I understand. I need to be better about my magic. I honestly don't want anything to eat." He feels guilty that he's wasting food but can't bring himself to eat.

Grabbing the medicine, Merlin turns and leaves the chambers.

His magic shifts under his skin apparently done resting Merlin shakes his head, his magic reminds him over an overexcited, unruly pup with the amount of energy it always seems to have. Seeing that the hallways are practically empty he lets a small part of his magic escape not all of it but enough so it can stretch its legs he smiles as his magic runs around like an eager normally as much as he complains about his unruly magic he loves how free it is it makes him feel not alone. He walks down the other end of the castle I search of the Lady Helen.

Merlin goes up the stairs, this time rather than wondering around hoping that he will find the way he needs to go he lets his magic guide him. Its quick work finding the guest wing of the castle, Merlin looks in wonder he hasn't been on this side of the castle but its beautiful he looks out the window and he can see the most beautiful garden, a small pond sits at the center, flowers in full bloom bright and colorful he smiles, there is a special kind of energy that comes from the garden and it calls his name. He turns away, he is busy now but he will find some time soon, that garden is begging to be explored. 

Merlin walks up the staircase and down the corridor, he can't deny that the castle is beautiful, the tapestries are all eye catching amazing works of art. Merlin finds the Lady Helen's with ease she is the only guest with a guard that is not wearing Camelot's colors. Merlin goes to enter the rooms when the guard stops him. 

"Apologies," Merlin takes a step back. "The court physician sent me, the lady Helen requested tonic for her voice." Merlin holds the black bottle up, hoping the guard will let him deliver it without a fuss he's still got to visit lady Morgana after this and he doesn't want to be late for the feast. He has never attended a proper feast before, back home their feasts consisted of his mother making her famous stew and the three of them sharing a few berry tarts. 

The guard stares at him, studying the bottle in his hand. Before nodding, and moving out of the door way. Merlin gives him a smile and raises the bottle in thanks and he opens the door assuming that the lady Helen is out and that's why the guard stopped him. Merlin is startled by the sight of Lady Helen sat at her vanity table a massive sheet covering her mirror whilst she sits hunched over an old book.  

"What are you doing?" she turns around a furious look on her face. 

Merlin stills, a darkness in the air put both him and his magic on edge "Apologies, my lady," he offers a bow, he's not entirely sure whether he's supposed to bow for nobles but it seems like the right move. "I'm here to deliver this." Merlin holds up the bottle.

"Very well," the lady holds her hand out for the bottle. 

Merlin gasps as their fingers brush, he doesn't understand why he couldn't see it before but she is a magic user, her magic pulses strongly off her in waves but it feels wrong, dark rotten, his Magic bares it's teeth at her and Merlin grabs it hard and pulls it back into his chest. He can't let his magic attack her it doesn't matter if she is a dark magic user, she is Uther's guest not to mention a noble with power in her own right. Before he can get himself into any trouble he turns around and leaves.

Merlin speed walks from the rooms conflicted. He has no idea what he's supposed to be doing Arthur didn't explain much about his roll as a personal assistant but Merlin assumes it has something to do with his magic- otherwise why would he pick him. But the question is can merlin honestly tell Arthur of other magic users knowing that it would be his word that got them put to death. He doesn't know. Lady Helen may practice dark magic but still he's conflicted. Merlin decides that he will keep an eye on her, if she proves herself to be a threat, then he will tell Arthur but otherwise he can't put her to death because of her magic alone. It would be too hypocritical. Merlin walks down towards the royal wing, he still has the draught that he needs to give to Lady Morgana.

Merlin walks up the curved stairs up to royal wing he's surprised that there is no guard, the Lady Helen had a guard and she's not even royalty, although she is a noble from a different kingdom. But surely, the royal family would need a guard what if someone tried to assassinate them, they have no shortage of enemies. Merlin bite his lip frowning maybe he should mention this to Arthur he doesn't know what he is supposed to be doing as his personal assistant but he really doesn't want Arthur dead if it can be helped. 

The door to the Lady Morgana's chambers sits open, Merlin knocks on it softly and enters the room. He is running out of time to get ready before the feast. The heavy smell of perfume clings to the air and Merlin fights to contain his sneeze not wanting to offend Morgana. He watches as the lady Morgana walks behind her changing screen. She is the only member of the royal family that Merlin has yet to see and Merlin is a little surprised that she is still unwed at her age with her beauty surely she has her pick of suitors. Merlin shakes his head slightly the lady Morgana's suitors is not something that is relevant to him. 

"You know," Morgana starts speaking from behind her changing screen "I've been thinking there is something different about Arthur. It might be because of that peasant he's apparently claimed but he has somehow become even more unbearable." Morgana laughs "I know I didn't think it was possible either but it's happened. Pass me that dress will you, Gwen,"

"I'm not Gwen," Merlin stands there with his nose scrunched up in confusion. terribly sorry I'm not Gwen Morgana shrieks as she whips her head around the changing screen e

Morgana shrieks and comes out from behind the changing screen "Who are you? Who let you in here? What are you doing"

Merlin raises his hands in surrender as he looks at Lady Morgana, his magic recoils away from her, "Lady Morgana." Merlin bows his head in respect "I'm so sorry, milady. Gaius sent me to deliver this," he places her draught on the vanity table "I thought you saw me when I entered I did not realize you thought I was your maid."

Gwen takes this moment to walk into the chambers her mouth drops in shock. "Merlin? What are you doing here?"

"Gwen you know this man," Morgana folds her arms it's not that she doesn't believe the peasant boy it's just that she doesn't believe the peasant boy.

"Yes my lady this is Merlin he's Gaius's new apprentice, he's also the peasant that the Prince has taken a liking to," Merlin rolls his eyes taken a liking to is a bit of an understatement. For some inane reason Arthur keeps finding more and more reasons to touch and grab at Merlin. 

Morgana nods, "Very well, thank you Merlin for dropping off my draughts now if you wouldn't mind I need to get ready feast."

Merlin nods taking a few steps back, "Of course my lady. I am sorry again." Merlin trips and it makes the girls giggle but he leaves the room without another word. He heads back to Gaius's chambers wanting to change tunics before the feast begins. 

Chapter Text

Arthur stares at his open cupboard determining what he should wear, he considers his armor for a second before dismissing the ridiculous thought. He considers the red tunic but Merlin has already seen him in it twice now and Arthur wants to wear something that will impress his little pet. He has a funny feeling that his pets taste lay on the simpler side of things if his love of neckerchiefs is anything to go by.

Arthur pulls out a pair of tight black leather breeches and a soft black tunic he pulls them on, and stares at him self in the mirror, feasts are supposed to be peaceful but Arthur would never let himself go anywhere unarmed he grabs his belt and sword as well as one of his daggers. He ties his belt around his waist and slips his dagger in the sheath inside his boot. Opening the cupboard next to his clothes he pulls out his crown he puts it on his head. Before doing a small spin in front of the mirror, but frowns he feels like something is missing. The bell rings and Arthur knows he's running out of time. Normally, he wouldn't care. He's the prince what do he care about the court - he will wear what he wants. But it's different now he has a pet that he wants to tease. Arthur grabs his new jacket its pendragon red it's fairly nice fancier than his regular hunting jacket but not by much. He looks back at his out fit in the mirror nodding, sure that his pet will like it.

Arthur walks over to Morgana's rooms as his father's ward Morgana is a member of the royal family and her rooms are within the royal wing. The only thing he is glad for is that her rooms are on the opposite end of the corridor to his. All through their growing years nobles told him that he would grow out of his petty hatred for Morgana but suffice to say he hasn't, in fact his hatred for her has only grown. Still, his father demands that until Morgana stops behaving like a spoiled brat he is escort to escort her to all the events and feasts. 

Arthur sighs and knocks on the door. It's funny Morgana is the one who behaves poorly but it feels more like Arthur is the one being punished.

"Enter."

Arthur pushes the door open, "Are you ready yet the feast is about to start."

Morgana steps out from behind her changing screen she's wearing a floor length gown a dark red far darker than the Pendragon red that Arthur himself is wearing, there is a silver headband with a red gem centered on her forehead, her hair down it covers her bare shoulders and Arthur can't help but roll his eyes. For all the fuss she kicked up she sure but a lot of time and effort into her appearance.

"Come on then." He gestures for the door. He wants to see Merlin, he knows that his little pet is a peasant and isn't going to be dressed any fancier than normal but he doesn't care. His pet is stunning - he could wear bog cover rags and still Arthur is sure that he would be gorgeous. 

Morgana does a little twirl "Well what do you think." She smiles and smoothes out the skirts of her dress." Arthur looks at her dress again it looks alright, "It's fine." 

Morgana frowns "fine." She folds her arms looking at him expectantly 

Rolling his eyes, Arthur holds out his elbow, "Morgana. If you are fishing for compliments you are not going to find them here. Now let us go attend the feast."

Morgana huffs but takes Arthur's arm "I don't see why you have to escort me to the feast I'm very capable of getting there myself." 

"That may be but after all the fuss you kicked up about not wanting to attend. My father wanted me to make sure that you weren't going to just skip the feast anyway," The two walk down the corridors the halls are empty as everyone is either in their homes or enjoying the feast. 

Morgana pulls a face "I'm incredibly sorry that I don't want to celebrate the murder of thousands of innocent people." She keeps her voice low and looks at the two noble couples stood in front of them. They stand their waiting to be announced and it's clear They didn't hear her treasonous words.

"Please Morgana," Arthur glares at her "This is just one of your petty little melodramas and it is neither the time nor the place." He squeezes her arm tightly delighting in her small noise of pain "We are going through those doors and you will behave," Arthur threatens he gets ever so tired of Morgana's behavior and is more than ready to put her in her place.

"INTRODUCING: PRINCE ARTHUR AND THE LADY MORGANA 

The announcer booms loudly and the feast turns to watch the doors as the two walk in to the hall. They force smiles onto their faces, they have entered the pit of vipers.

Arthur scans the crowd hoping to see Merlin. He knows without a doubt that his pet is going to be at the feast he wouldn't dare miss it, but to his disappointment his pet has not yet arrived.

Arthur lets go of Morgana's arm to go and mingle with the guests. Arthur he watches out the corner of his eye as Morgana does the same gossiping with the other ladies of the court. Arthur huffs was it not earlier this week she was calling the ladies vapid gossips that she doesn't want to talk to.

 As he talks with the guests he can't help but think about how much he prefers the knights over the lords of the courts the knights are rare to cast judgement on their brother's in arms, if your fellow knight has your back in a fight and can fight well who cares who he beds. However with the lords of the courts all they care about is who Arthur beds and it does get quite irritating they don't voice their disgust or complaints directly but the lord's are not subtle as they think they are and it is soon going to bite them back because Arthur's patience is wearing thin. He mingles and he chats his mind bored as he searches for Merlin in the crowd. 

--

"Merlin your back. I really thought you were going to miss the feast." Merlin smiles at Gaius glad that the older man is smiling back rather than look at him with his usual glare of disdain.

"And risk Arthur's ire." Merlin jokes "No way, the prat Arthur practically demanded to see me there." Merlin shakes his head he toyed with the idea of not going to the feast but his magic rebelled at the thought and his magic is already chaotic enough as it is. 

"WHAT!" Gaius yells and Merlin's smile drops as he realizes that he has once again angered his uncle. "Merlin I thought we agreed that it was in your best interest to keep away from the Prince."  

"I'm sorry, Gaius," Merlin raises his arms up in surrender and hangs his head low. "I swear I haven't seen Arthur since the last time when we had the mace fight. At the end of the fight he stopped the guards taking me back to the dungeons and demanded to see me at the feast." Merlin lies he knows without a doubt that if He Gaius finds out that Arthur knows about his magic there is going to be hell to pay.

Gaius glares at Merlin giving him the Eyebrow of judgement and Merlin curls in on himself taking a step back.  

"Do you know why the Prince invited you?" Gaius asks feeling exasperated all he wants is to keep his damned nephew out of trouble and away from the Prince and yet he is drawn to the two like magnets. 

"No, I don't Gaius," 

Gaius sighs shaking his head, and it makes Merlin angry, it feels like Gaius is blaming him but how exactly is it his fault.

"Well there is nothing we can do about it now," Gaius narrows his eyes are Merlin, "but need I remind you that I don't want you anywhere near the Prince. 

"No, Gaius" Merlin shakes his head. Both he and his magic bristle at Gaius demands. 'What right does he have to control who I do and don't see.' Merlin sighs he has no idea how he's going to explain his paid works as Arthur's personal assistant but he's glad he hasn't done already. He has a feeling that if his uncle knew he was going to be working for Arthur there is no way that he would be allowed to attend the feast. He runs upstairs to quickly change into his clean red tunic, he looks in the mirror but frowns he isn't a fan of the red and red combo and swaps his red neckerchief for the blue one. He looks again in the mirror and nods they aren't his fanciest clothing because Merlin doesn't have fancy clothes but they are his cleanest. He shrugs his jacket back on and follows Gaius to the banquet hall. 

Merlin enters the massive banquet hall - his jaw drops in shock. There a tables for the feast and Merlin wonders where he and Gaius are going to be sitting. There are banners everywhere with the Pendragon crest decorating them. There is a small band playing but Merlin knows that there is more entertainment later on - it's common knowledge that the Lady Helen of Mora has come to sing and Merlin had the unpleasant opportunity to meet her. Gaius laughs and Merlin drops his eyes to the ground even though his uncle hadn't said anything he could feel the judgement coming off him in waves. Still Merlin can't help but look around the nobles are dressed in such fancy clothing he smiles when he sees Morgana knowing that he helped her and Gwen pick out her dress and he is glad to see that he was right about how it looks. Compared to the other ladies of the court many of whom are wearing dresses that are borderline obscene. Morgana's dress is more classy and bold fit for a member of the royal family. 

Looking around the room Merlin spots Arthur and he tries not to let his jaw drop again. Arthur is dressed well it is a simple outfit but one that Merlin can't help but enjoy, he finds himself staring at Arthur's ass in the black breeches for way too long. Merlin feels someone staring at him and he looks up to see Arthur grinning at him obviously catching him in the act. He immediately looks away, he can feel his ears heating and his magic runs for Arthur happy to wrap him up in something akin to a hug. Merlin shakes his head trying to coral his magic back into his body but the stubborn thing refuses to as asked. He shakes his head he doesn't understand why his magic won't get with the program - Arthur may not have had him killed for his magic but that doesn't mean he's a good person. Although Merlin can't say much because despite what Arthur had done Merlin still can't help himself from checking the blonde prat out. 

Merlin can't help but keep his eye out on Arthur's reaction to his magic. He knows when his magic reaches Arthur. It feels as the blonde is stood right next to him, he watches as his magic dances around Arthur as his brows are scrunched in confusion. But a smug smile comes across his face and Merlin knows that Arthur knows, he offers Arthur an embarrassed smile while the blonde sends him another wink. Merlin barely feels himself moving forward but then a hand wraps tightly around his arm and he stills. Wincing he looks back to see Gaius once again glaring at him, his magic comes sling-shotting back to him ready to pounce on Gaius. Merlin just manages to keep it from attacking the old man.

"Are you serious?" Gaius hisses "How many times do I have to warn you about the Prince. Merlin pushes down the panic, he knows that his uncle means well but he hates the feeling of anger that Gaius is broadcasting at him. "He may have asked for your attendance but that doesn't mean you should go and talk to him in front of all these people." 

Merlin looks at him confused. Why should he not go and talk to him Arthur practically demanded for him to attend and sure Merlin was half planning to ignore him, there is another part of him that is inexplicably drawn to him. Call it destiny if you must but there is something about Arthur that Merlin can't ignore.

"Hello, Pet." Merlin stills at the soft purr behind him. A smug sense of satisfaction blooms in his stomach followed by an intense sense of guilt as he watches the color drain from his uncle's face. 

"Gaius," Arthur eyes Merlin's arm "If you wouldn't mind," Gaius's grip seems to get tighter before he lets go of Merlin's arm. Arthur is quick moving Merlin behind him although this time he lets go and Merlin can't help but feel a little disappointed that Arthur isn't touching him. 

Merlin lets out breath he didn't realize he was holding, he looks up at Arthur prepared to swallow his pride and offer him a word of thanks, the royal maybe a prat but he's also something else - Merlin can't find a word that describes it, he has never met another person who behaves the way Arthur does. However, Arthur has not taken his eyes off his uncle, glaring at the older man with pure hatred in his eyes. Merlin feels bad for Gaius, Arthur looks scary when he is angry but at the same time he's happy. Glad that Gaius is on the receiving end of someone's else's wrath, he is tired - so tired of Gaius yelling at him, glaring at him, grabbing him. He doesn't think of the blue eyed prat who does the same thing - somehow it's different when Arthur does it. He is tired about someone who knows nothing about his magic trying to lecture him about how he uses it. Merlin knows that he has to be careful with his magic, he is not stupid but surely yelling about it at the top of his lungs is just as counterproductive as Merlin actually using it.

"Come, Merlin," Merlin looks at Arthur in shock he didn't think that Arthur even knew his name always calling him 'Pet' but Arthur pays no attention to him too busy staring down Gaius with fury in his eyes. "My father will soon be announcing the Lady Helen," 

Merlin nods as Arthur begins to push him away from Gaius, he sends Gaius an apologetic look from over his shoulder but the harsh glare has him turning back around he has no idea who Gaius was glaring out whether him or Arthur but still it has him worried. He hates how no matter what he tries all he ever seems to do is make Gaius mad at him. 

"Pet," Merlin hides his frown, 'and now he's back to calling me pet.' "Stand behind me I don't like the way Gaius is looking at you and I want to keep you close."

Merlin feels his magic swoon and he is not to proud to admit that he does as well his frown easily turning into a smile. Arthur sits down to Uther's right. And Merlin tense, he knows that Arthur promised him protection from Uther but what if he changes his mind, what if Arthur can't actually do anything to protect him. Merlin shakes his head. No, I need to trust Arthur. Arthur turns and sends Merlin a wink and Merlin feels his face heat. Arthur gesture for Merlin to come over and Merlin follows. Uther looks over at the two boys but neither of them notice him, he studies them but doesn't say anything letting a knight on his other side capture his attention. 

"Are you ok?" Arthur whispers and Merlin pauses in shock. He doesn't understand why Gaius seems to hate Arthur so much.

"Merlin," Arthur prompts frowning. 

"Sorry, Yes I'm fine,"

"Good" Arthur nods and Merlin moves to go stand with his back against the wall but Arthur grabs his wrist, Merlin stills, "I would prefer it if you stayed close"

Merlin nods, and Arthur lets go of his wrist. Merlin wonders what would happen if he ran if he moved away, he wonders what Arthur would do in front of the court. He's strangely tempted to find out but he holds himself back a weird sense of fear keeps him immobile. 

Chapter Text

Uther eyes his son and the peasant behind him, curiosity eats at him, he wonders if this is the peasant of the rumors the one that fought Arthur - it is unbecoming to for a Prince to entertain a peasant. Arthur raises his brow such a blatant show of disrespect Uther huffs there is nothing he can do for it now but he and Arthur will be having words later. Looking around he pastes a fake smile onto his face.

"We have enjoyed twenty years of peace and prosperity." Uther stands raising his own goblet "It has brought the kingdom and myself many pleasures, but few can compare with the honor of introducing Lady Helen of Mora." The court raises their drinks in cheers before sitting down, all of them excited to hear the Lady Helen sing.

"Thank you my lord." The lady Helen bows before she starts to sing.

The melody is hauntingly beautiful, Merlin listens to the song, he is a little confused he though that the feast was a celebration but the music is darker, slower more melancholy but the people seem to enjoy it and Merlin can't deny that even though the song sounds more fitting for a funeral rather than a celebration the lady's voice is stunning. Merlin shifts from foot to foot he's right behind Arthur and his magic is restless under his skin it wants nothing more to reach out and play with Arthur but Merlin doesn't want to risk it Uther is sat less than a foot away. 'Stop being an attention seeker and behave,' he forces his magic to his will, not liking how much it likes Arthur.

Music dances all around him and Merlin wants to face palm he's been so distracted by Arthur he hadn't noticed the web of magic that fills the room made stronger by the Lady Helens singing. Merlin watches as cobwebs appear out of thin air, and the people in the hall drift off to sleep the nobles and peasants alike are fading off into sleep. Merlin watches as the Lady Helen stalks forwards her eyes filled with hatred, focused on Arthur in front of him. Merlin looks around he needs something to stop her Merlin spots the Chandelier at the same time that the lady Helen pulls out a dagger, where she was keeping it Merlin doesn't know.

Merlin ducks his head and let's his magic unscrew the Chandelier. Whether it was luck or something more. The second the pin comes out the chandelier falls and falling at top of the Lady Helen. Merlin can't help but glare at the old lady she had Uther right there but rather than attack the one who killed her son she goes after Arthur who may not be entirely innocent but has done nothing to wrong her.

With the singing stopped the enchantment loses power and Merlin lets his magic tear the rest of it to shreds, and the people begin to wake up, shrieks fill the air as people pull away the spider webs that cover their bodies and hair. And more as people notice the scene at the end of their tables. The lady Helen transforms into the old witch from the execution - Thomas Colins mother.

Like the rest of the court Merlin is too distracted by people waking up, many of the noble ladies and a fair share of the men scream as they realize they are covered in cobwebs. Merlin keeps his eye on Arthur who turns and gives Merlin a nod of silent thanks, his magic feels like it's preening and Merlin just smiles. Maybe the dragon was right after all.

Merlin didn't notice the false Lady Helen moving until it was too late. He thought that the chandelier had taken out the threat.

Till the dagger comes flying towards Arthur.

Merlin doesn't hesitate he jumps at Arthur, knocking the prince of his chair and onto the floor.

Merlin feels the metal as it catches his arm he makes a small noise of pain, ignoring the furious look on Arthur's face. As he stands, Merlin gives his arm a cursory look and it doesn't look great it is not horrific but he is most likely going to need stitches. It's weird Gaius gets mad and Merlin is scared his magic rises up in his defense, but Arthur looks mad and nothing - no fear - no unruly magic. The Prince has a weird hold over him and Merlin doesn't know whether its a good thing or not.

"You!" Uther points at the boy Merlin finds himself stiffening, his heart jackrabbits in his chest and his magic burrows deep in his chest hoping to hide. A small part of him thinks that this is it. Uther saw him use magic and now he's going to die. Merlin tries to remain calm.

Uther smiles "You saved my boy's life. A debt must be repaid."

Merlin takes a small step back, "I- it was nothing."

"Don't be so modest," Uther shakes his head "You shall be rewarded."

Merlin goes to argue once more but has a feeling it would be useless and remains silent. Merlin has a sinking feeling this is going to have something to do with Arthur's proposition from yesterday and Merlin doesn't know how he feels about it. Arthur has done nothing but confused him since they met, he feels safe but electric, calm but restless. And he just doesn't understand it.

Uther looks between Arthur and the boy, he doesn't know how this next action will go over with his son, but the boy already seems taken with the peasant. "You shall be rewarded a position in the royal household. You shall be Prince Arthur's - "

"Father," Arthur rises to his feet, knowing that this is the only chance he's going to get. Uther gives him a small nod to carry on If I may, I wish to have Merlin as my personal assistant rather than manservant."

The look of shock on Uther's face is palpable, such a prestigious position and he wants to give it to a peasant, "Arthur you cannot be serious he is a peasant" Uther keeps his voice low.

Arthur nods he needs to play this right if he wants his little pet at his side - manservant is to low of a position for what he needs of his Merlin, even Personal assistant is a stretch he would personally prefer consort but neither Merlin nor his father would go for that just yet.

"Yes," Arthur feels the anger blooming in his gut but he soothes it, he can't lose his temper here not in front of the court "but, father, you, yourself know what a formidable foe magic presents itself to be, for a mere peasant to win against such a wicked threat. I want him to have a better position besides I already have a manservant and he is doing quite well,"

Uther looks between Arthur and the peasant boy. It's unorthodox to have a personal assistant of such low birth and Uther wants to deny Arthur but the dark look in his son's eyes makes him reconsider - for some reason this isn't going to back down on. Uther gives him a small nod, before turning to the crowd to make the announcement.

"For your act of bravery, in saving the prince of Camelot your reward by request of the prince himself will be the position of his Personal Assistant." Uther watches as the court applauds, he watches them carefully but ha can't see a single person that has a problem with the announcement - he supposes only time will tell.

Merlin flushes in embarrassment as the crowd applauds. Arthur sends him a look and Merlin looks away - he should have known Arthur would have found a way to make a big spectacle of his new job. Merlin looks down at his arm the bleeding has thankfully stopped but his arm throbs in pain - he wonders when he will be allowed to leave and get it tended to. A heavy glare burns into Merlin, he stiffens eyes searching the crowd when he spots his uncle off to the side a furious look on his face. Merlin swallows nervously before looking away - his magic swells like its showing of and merlin just shakes his head and soothes it back down.