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Chapter Text

After the battle for Ealdor, Kanen challenged Arthur one-on-one. It was over with quickly, but Arthur hardly seemed to care. He took murderous steps towards Merlin and Will and demanded, “Who did that?”

He had seen. Merlin had turned the battle’s tide with magic, and Arthur saw.

Merlin felt his heart drop, but he put on his best confused voice. “What?”

Arthur looked insulted. “Wind like that doesn’t just appear from nowhere,” he growled. His lip curled as he looked between the two. “I know magic when I see it. One of you made it happen.”

Merlin looked over at Will, who wouldn’t meet his eyes, nor Arthur’s. He leaned forward, then took a step towards his prince. He looked up. “Arthur.”

Arthur’s head swung from Will to Merlin. “Well?” he challenged.

“Merlin, don’t,” Will warned.

“It’s alright, Will.” Merlin glanced back at his friend. Then he looked directly at Arthur and said, “Things were desperate – I had to do something.”

“It was you. It was you?” Arthur shifted his weight forward, his tone incredulous. “You’re a sorcerer?” There was sick rage in his voice.

Merlin tried to meet Arthur’s eyes, but settled for looking past him – and that’s when he saw Kanen, barely hanging to consciousness, raising his crossbow. “Look out!” Merlin gasped, shoving Arthur aside.

There was a click, and then a whistle, and then Merlin felt like he’d been punched in the side. He stumbled as the edges of his vision went gray. He heard his mother gasp.

“Merlin!”  Will bellowed.

Merlin’s knees gave out, and he made a thud in the dust. Will lunged to catch him as he collapsed. “Gotcha, gotcha,” Will said.

Arthur looked behind him to ensure Kanen had finally died, then knelt beside Merlin. His face was pale. “You –“

Merlin only stared at the gray sky and shuddered.

“Come on!” Arthur shouted. “Get him inside!”

Two men hurried at Arthur’s order. They knelt beside Arthur and Will, and together they all lifted Merlin into the air.

Merlin felt himself fading, and his eyes slid closed. He felt a jostle to his shoulder. “Stay with me, Merlin,” Will begged, his voice cracking.

But Merlin didn’t have much of a choice.

Chapter Text

Merlin felt himself fading, and his eyes slid closed. He felt a jostle to his shoulder. “Stay with me, Merlin,” Will begged, his voice cracking.

But Merlin didn’t have much of a choice.

It was rain that woke him. Not the horrible, gnawing pain in his side, not the cold ache in his bones or the hot sweat on his skin. No, it was the sound of gentle rain. It was so obnoxious that Merlin’s eyes slid open halfway. His lids fluttered with the effort, and he sighed when he couldn’t hold it.

“Merlin?”

Merlin knew that voice, but he was too tired to respond. He was pulled back into the dark.

Then a hand brushed Merlin’s, rousing him again. He heard another voice he knew. “I think you’re right; he’s waking up. Merlin?”

Merlin could only raise his eyelids halfway before they fell shut again.

“Please, Merlin, come back.”

I’m trying.

He finally managed to open his eyes, but not long enough to bring the hazy figures into focus. He forced his eyes open again, fighting the dark pull of sleep long enough to recognize his mother in the candlelight. He blinked again, faster this time, and saw Will behind her.

“My boy,” Hunith breathed. She wrapped her hands around one of Merlin’s and raised it to her lips. “You’re alive.”

“You’re a lucky idiot,” Will said. “You scared us.”

Merlin mustered a smile and whispered, “Sorry.” He heard Will chuckle as he closed his eyes and fell back asleep.

Morgana and Gwen were at Merlin’s bedside when he woke again.

“Merlin?” Gwen prompted. “Merlin, can you hear me?”

Merlin was too tired to move his eyes from the window; he saw raindrops on the glass, glistening in predawn purple. “What happened?” he mumbled.

“We’re in Ealdor. You were hurt,” Morgana answered.

Memories rushed Merlin like a pack of wolves. They won the battle for Ealdor. Merlin had conjured wind with magic, and Arthur had seen. The last solid memory was of Arthur’s voice: It was you.

It was you.

Arthur knew.

“Merlin?” Gwen asked. “Are you – Merlin!” She and Morgana reached out to stop Merlin in his attempt to sit up. Gwen placed a hand on his chest. “Merlin, please, stop – you need to rest.”

Merlin couldn’t fight her. He laid back against the bed and caught his breath.

“You need to rest to get better,” Morgana said.

Merlin’s lips quirked into a humorless smile. “’Get better’? Just to burn me?”

Morgana’s face couldn’t settle between concern and disturbed. “Nobody’s burning you,” she said fiercely.

Merlin wanted to believe her, but he wasn’t awake long enough to try.

Each time Merlin came to, he was awake a little longer. He was never alone; Gwen, Morgana, Hunith, and Will were taking shifts. Merlin was moved, and yet he couldn’t help but notice a particular exclusion in his company.

No one mentioned Arthur, and Merlin could hardly bear to think of him, let alone ask about him. But still, he felt the prince’s absence as tangibly as the wound in his side.

Gwen and Morgana were with Merlin in the evening when there was a sudden knock at the door. They all went quiet and exchanged glances; Will and Hunith weren’t due back until sunrise.

“Shall I?” Gwen offered, getting to her feet. She crossed the room and opened the door, and her expression was only mildly surprised. “Prince Arthur,” she said, curtseying.

“Guinevere.” Arthur was hidden from Merlin’s sight, but his voice carried across the room. “May I come in?”

“You –“ Gwen looked back over at Merlin and Morgana. She nearly stumbled over the words. “Of course, you may.” She stepped aside to let him pass.

Arthur emerged into the barn, and Merlin’s breath caught in his throat. The prince’s laid his eyes on Morgana and stayed on her. Merlin wondered if Arthur was purposefully avoiding looking his way.

“Leave us,” Arthur said.

Morgana lifted her chin. “You couldn’t be bothered until now, and you think you can demand the room?”

“Morgana,” Arthur warned.

Morgana stood, a retort on her lips, but Gwen touched her shoulder.

Morgana took a deep breath, then she scoffed. “Men,” she said. “Come on, Gwen.” She crossed the room, linking her arm through Gwen’s, and they headed for the door. At the last moment, Morgana turned. “We’re right outside,” she said.

The door closed behind the ladies, and Arthur finally risked a glance at his servant. Silence stretched between them like leather. Merlin watched Arthur’s jaw set, and the prince finally addressed him.

“You’re a sorcerer.”

“I am.” What else could he say?

Arthur hesitated, then added, “That’s what you were going to tell me, wasn’t it?”

A half-forgotten memory surfaced, of when Merlin and Arthur put on their armor. They shook hands, exchanged fears. Merlin almost told Arthur his secret, but time ran out. The exchange felt like a lifetime ago. But Arthur had remembered it.

“Yes,” Merlin said. “It was.”

Merlin had the distinct feeling that Arthur was only pretending to look at him, and that his eyes were fixed elsewhere.

“You know how dangerous magic is,” Arthur said. “You shouldn’t have kept this from me, Merlin.” His voice was stiff, his words rehearsed. And before Merlin could answer, he demanded, “What was your plan?”

“My –“ Merlin’s head spun. “My plan?”

“You did it, you infiltrated Camelot’s defenses,” Arthur said. “A sorcerer in Camelot – personal servant to the prince, no less. What was next?”

“It – it wasn’t like that –“ Merlin protested.

“Then what was it, Merlin?” Arthur’s voice grew hot, sounding a bit more like himself. He stepped forward. “What’s your explanation?”

“I don’t have a choice,” Merlin said. “I was born with magic.”

Arthur scoffed. “That’s impossible.”

“It’s not,” Merlin said. “I’ve been – I’ve had it my whole life.”

“If that were true,” Arthur said, “then why ever come to Camelot at all? You know –“ He went to take a step forward and couldn’t bring himself to. “You know that there is no place for magic in Camelot.”

“Arthur.” Merlin reached over the side of the bed, and in one swift motion he got to his feet. At once, his legs gave out. Merlin gasped and dropped to one knee with a loud thud. He held the kneeling position, his head bowed.

Arthur rushed forward and planted his hands on Merlin’s shoulders. “Gods’ sakes!” he seethed. “What the hell are you doing?”

Merlin sucked in a shuddering breath. “I swear –“

“Shut up, Merlin,” Arthur snapped. “Don’t move – you’re going to kill yourself.”

“I would never betray Camelot,” Merlin ground out. “Magic is a part of me – I use it to help you.”

The door swung open. “We heard – Merlin!” Gwen cried. She hurried to his side.

“What is going on?” Morgana demanded.

Merlin’s breaths came short, and his vision was darkening, but he kept his eyes on Arthur. The prince’s eyes flickered between repulsion and concern.

Morgana swung around to face Arthur. “I think you should go,” she said icily.

Arthur spoke, but the words were lost as Merlin slumped to the floor.

Chapter Text

Merlin’s breaths came short, and his vision was darkening, but he kept his eyes on Arthur. The prince’s eyes flickered between repulsion and concern.

Morgana swung around to face Arthur. “I think you should go,” she said icily.

Arthur spoke, but the words were lost as Merlin slumped to the floor.

Merlin awoke when he realized the ache in his side was searing. He opened his eyes and a face swam into view.

“Will,” Merlin rasped. “Will, something’s wrong.”

Will smiled ruefully. “We know,” he said. “Your wound’s infected.”

Every breath was devastating, every movement excruciating. The pain had Merlin just tottering on the line of consciousness, floating between pain and dreams, nightmares and reality, and dark swaths of nothing.

Sometime in the morning, he opened his eyes as Gwen pulled a blanket over him.

“You were shivering,” she said, ducking her eyes.

Thank you, Merlin thought, but he only managed half of it aloud before he was asleep again.

Merlin was in darkness for either moments or hours, and then there was a knock at the door. Merlin wanted to open his eyes, but his lids were too heavy. He nodded off, and the next time he came to, he was alone with Hunith.

“Arthur’s gone back to Camelot.”

“What?” Goosebumps raised on Merlin’s hot skin. The resulting shudder aggravated his side so horribly that it was a relief when he passed out.

The next time he awoke, watery evening light streamed through the window, and Will was laying a cold cloth across his burning forehead. “Come on, Merlin,” his friend said. “You can beat this.”

“I don’t know,” Merlin croaked.

From somewhere out of sight, Morgana said, “Nonsense. You’re stronger than you say.”

Merlin’s breathing slowed as he fell asleep.

Will sat back and ran his hands down his face with a sigh. Then he deflated, leaning forward with hands folded, and stared at the candle on the nightstand. “What’s the use of having magic if it doesn’t heal you, huh?” he goaded. “Give me a break.”

Morgana lifted her head. “When’s the last time you slept?” she asked.

Will waved a hand. “I had a rest just before dinner.”

“When’s the last time you slept in a bed, and not a haybale?” Morgana amended gently. “You shouldn’t do too much.”

“If I could do more, I would.”

The pain in Will’s voice was familiar at this point, and Morgana bowed her head sympathetically. “You’re a good friend to him,” she said, not for the first time.

“He’s always there for me,” Will said. “I’d do anything for him.”

They lapsed into silence, but only for a minute. Will looked over to the sunset in the window and said, “When he left Ealdor, I was worried. Kept wondering how he’d do without anyone looking out for him.” He wouldn’t meet Morgana’s eyes as he said, “But now, I mean…you and Gwen, the fact that – that you came at all, that you’re still here –“

“He’d do the same for us,” Morgana interjected quietly. “He has.”

Will chuckled. “I guess so,” he said. “I’m just grateful that Merlin has folk looking out for him. He can be a sorry judge of character.”

“Oh?” Morgana said, though her expression read that she was clearly familiar.

Will managed a smile. “I always had to get him out of some sort of trouble from those that don’t mean well. Told him when people were taking advantage, when they were playing tricks. The whole time since he came back, Merlin kept telling me that he trusted you all, but I wouldn’t believe him and I think I…I didn’t act right.”

Morgana laughed. “Your feelings were never exactly subtle,” she pointed out, “but it was mostly to Arthur, and his ego can take it.”

Will caught a laugh before it left him, but let the smile play his lips. “That’s true,” he conceded. “But still…I’m sorry.”

Morgana smiled, and in a quiet voice she said, “I’m sorry you were right about Arthur. For both your sakes.”

A strange combination of emotions crossed Will’s face. He was quiet for about a minute, then said, “I don’t know. He could come around.”

“You think so?”

Will’s eyes darted downwards. “Right when it happened, when you all were trying to …” Will angled his head away and cleared his throat. More briskly, he added, “The prince came and asked me about the magic. And I know he wanted the truth, but…” Will met Morgana’s eye. “It didn’t feel like that’s what he was really after.”

“What do you mean?”

“He asked if I really was the sorcerer, and he wanted to know if I had the power to save Merlin.” He shrugged. “I mean, that’s not something he would ask if there wasn’t some part of him that could accept magic.”

Morgana’s eyes fixed on a dark corner. She couldn’t help the squeeze that she gave Merlin’s hand. “Let’s hope it’s true.”

Arthur arrived in Camelot just before midnight. He went directly to his destination’s door and knocked five times. There was a clatter from within. Then hinges creaked, and Gaius stepped through.

“Arthur!” he gasped.

“We haven’t much time, Gaius,” Arthur said, inviting himself into the physician’s chambers. “You need to pack a bag. Merlin’s wounded.”

Gaius closed the door and whirled around. “How badly?”

“It’s infected.” Arthur plucked a traveling pack from the ground and placed it on Gaius’s bench.

Gaius looked stricken; there was no hiding the old man’s affection for Arthur’s servant. Arthur could hardly bear to look at his face. “Where is the wound?” Gaius asked.

“In his side.”

“How did he get it?”

Arthur looked down. “He was shot. Crossbow bolt.” He didn’t look back at Gaius before he crossed the room. “I’ll ready your horse.”

Just after midnight, Gwen entered the barn with a quiet knock. Inside, she found Will asleep at the windowsill, and Morgana in the chair beside Merlin’s bed. Gwen’s lady was somewhere between sitting and leaning on her elbows, with her fingers hovered over the bucket of cold water.

With a soft smile, Gwen took the cloth from Merlin’s forehead and knelt down. She dipped it in the water several times, wringing it out between each dip to ensure no warmth remained. On the third dip, she only wrang the cloth out halfway. Then she got to her feet and laid the cloth back over Merlin’s forehead.

Merlin’s face relaxed a bit, but there was still tension in his brow. His lips moved, but barely any sound came out. Then his eyes fluttered open.

Gwen leaned in. “Merlin?”

Merlin’s irises shimmered with gold. “Léoht!”

Morgana and Will awoke at Merlin’s shout. Will was on his feet in an instant, and Morgana stared wide-eyed at the soft blue light rising from the center of Merlin’s palm.

“Magic,” Morgana said. “Why?”

The thief had come out of the trees at Arthur’s ankles, startling his horse. Arthur’s lantern went flying through the air and shattered on the ground. The flame went out, dropping them into darkness.

“You’re surrounded.” A voice floated from somewhere behind Arthur. “There’s a sword at the old man’s back. Now stay still – we’re taking everything.”

They were surrounded? Arthur knew he was tired from riding for hours, but had he been so careless as to let them get surrounded?

He couldn’t confirm it – it was far too dark without the lantern. But he couldn’t risk Gaius’s life by calling it as a bluff.

“Hey, Clarence. What’s that?” one of the thieves demanded.

He heard Gaius suck in a clipped gasp, and Arthur turned to see something soft in the trees. It was a simple ball of light glowing bluish-green.

Suddenly, there was an explosion of a flash. Light pierced through the trees and illuminated the path like lightning. In that split second, Arthur saw the smoking lantern on the ground. He counted the thief that had tripped his horse, the robber who had spoken behind him, and the swordsman at Gaius’s back.

Then he saw the glow faded back into a blue ball. It looked familiar to Arthur, although he couldn’t place how. But he had no time to think about it; Arthur had to prioritize.

Arthur couldn’t dismount and unsheathe his sword in enough time, so his dagger would have to do. Arthur calculated the way the throw would have to feel, then acted. In a flick, his dagger flew through the air and landed squarely in his target’s chest. The swordsman made a wet choking sound before dropping to the forest floor.

The thief in front of Arthur’s horse called out. “Lewis?”

Arthur took the moment of surprise to dismount and swing around, landing a punch into the side of the thief behind him. The robber crumpled to the ground.

“Clarence?” The man in front of Arthur’s horse called out once more.

Dim blue light was spilling from the woods and casting long shadows on the path. Arthur stood in front of it to block light from the final thief.

“Clarence? Lewis?” the thief called.

“I’ve taken care of them,” Arthur announced. “Do I have to come after you?”

Arthur didn’t have to see in the dark to know he’d been threatening enough. He heard roots and vines snagging as the thief fled.

“Gaius, are you alright?” Arthur demanded.

“Yes, I’m fine.” Arthur turned to see Gaius dismounting his horse, all the while keeping his eyes fixed on the blue ball of light. “Remarkable,” he murmured. He took a few steps toward it, a tentative smile lighting his eyes. “But how?”

Arthur came to stand in the watery rays of light. “Do you know what it is, Gaius?” he asked. “This isn’t the first time I’ve seen it.”

Gaius’s expression shifted. He didn’t move his gaze from the light, but his eyes seemed to be looking at something else entirely. “Yes, I think I’ve seen it before, too,” he said quietly.

“When I last saw it, I was far from here. I was in a cave…” And as he spoke, Arthur remembered where he had seen the light before: on a quest for a golden flower. When Arthur was in trouble, someone had sent a light to guide the way.

“Merlin’s a sorcerer,” Arthur said flatly. Gaius finally turned his head from the ball of light, showing no emotion as he met Arthur’s eye. “This is his doing.” Gaius didn’t answer, and Arthur realized, “You knew.”

Gaius hesitated, lifting his chin, then pointed out, “You came for my aid.”

Arthur lowered his eyes. “Let’s not waste time,” he said, and mounted his horse.

They rode through the night. Maybe an hour before dawn, Arthur realized that the magical light was dimming. Then, once Ealdor came into view, it disappeared altogether.

Chapter Text

They rode through the night. Maybe an hour before dawn, Arthur realized that the magical light was dimming. Then, once Ealdor came into view, it disappeared altogether.

They rode into the village as the sun rose over the treetops. Arthur led the way through the houses and beyond the pastures.

Hunith was on her way to the barn when they came. She turned her head at the sound of approaching hoofbeats, and her eyes widened as they drew close and slowed to a halt.

“Gaius?” she gasped. “Prince Arthur?”

“Hunith, my dear,” said Gaius, dismounting. Hunith rushed to his side and began to help him with his bag. Arthur dismounted as well. Without a word, he took Gaius’s horse and led both steeds to a nearby pasture.

When Arthur returned to Gaius and Hunith, he felt as if he was intruding. Hunith’s eyes were glittering with tears, and she was mid-sob. “Gaius, I’m so glad you’re here.”

“Anything for you and Merlin,” Gaius said solemnly. “Come. I’ll do what I can.”

Arthur watched the pair head for the door. They slipped inside, then closed it behind them. Arthur was close enough that he felt the air push into his face. He stared at the wooden planks.

After what felt like too long, Arthur turned away. He pressed his back against the wall of the barn. And then his knees gave out. He slid to the ground and sank onto the grass. He leaned back against the barn and stared blankly ahead.

He had been so focused on the ride that he hadn’t noticed how tired he was. He’d been to Camelot and back without stopping, without eating, without sleeping – and it was finally catching up to him.

Arthur closed his eyes. The morning passed quietly in Ealdor; the grass swayed, the animals meandered, the fields were tended.

“Arthur!”

The prince opened his eyes to midday sunlight and saw Morgana and Gwen standing in front of him.

Morgana’s eyes were narrowed. “You’re back,” she said.

“I am."

“And yet you’re still out here.” Morgana said snidely.

Arthur was too tired to exchange quips with her. “Gaius is inside. I don’t want to disturb him.”

“Gaius is here?” Gwen said. Her eyes widened. “You went to Camelot to fetch him!”

Arthur didn’t answer.

Morgana scoffed, but a smile was starting to light in her eyes. “Why didn’t you say so? You let us think the worst of you!” Arthur shot her a look, but she held his gaze.

Arthur sighed. “I wasn’t sure what I was doing,” he admitted. “I wasn’t sure whether I’d come back at all.”

Gwen’s voice reached him like the breeze across Ealdor. “But you did,” she said.

“Have you eaten anything today?” Morgana asked. Arthur shook his head. Morgana and Gwen exchanged a glance.

Gwen curtseyed. “I’ll fetch some lunch,” she said. She turned away and went back the way she’d come.

Morgana sat herself in the grass beside Arthur. She didn’t look at him, didn’t speak. She simply waited with him.

Arthur looked over at her. Morgana was possibly the only person who could understand his perspective; she, too, had grown up under Uther’s watchful eye. She grew up watching executions before she even understood what they were. She had been taught that magic was a disease of the soul and, above all else, a force of evil.

All of Uther’s lessons rang in Arthur’s head as she watched Morgana. There was so much he wanted to say. But all that would come to his lips was, “He’s a sorcerer, Morgana.”

“He’s still Merlin,” Morgana answered simply. When he didn’t answer, she said, “The magic wasn’t his choice – he was born with it.”

“So he says.”

Morgana turned and met his gaze. “Why would he lie?”

“He’s lied about everything else,” Arthur pointed out.

“If he had told you right away, what would you have done?” Morgana curled her lip disdainfully. “Wouldn’t you have just told your father and –“

“It’s magic.”

“It’s not a choice!” Morgana shot back.

“Why do you believe him?” Arthur asked.

Morgana looked away. “I…see no reason for a man to tell lies on his deathbed,” she said finally.

Arthur’s stomach rolled. Had it gotten that bad?

Morgana tried to look optimistic. “If anyone can save him, Gaius can,” she said. “You did the right thing, to fetch him.”

“Did I?” Arthur asked. “Because it felt a lot like treason.”

“Hardly matters, seeing as you’re the prince,” Morgana reminded him.

Arthur shook his head. “It doesn’t make me above the law.”

“But what if the law’s wrong?” Morgana pressed.

Arthur didn’t have an answer for her. He was too tired. He leaned back and pressed his head against the barn, closing his eyes. Morgana relented, and they sat in silence.

When Gwen returned with food, she wasn’t alone. Merlin’s friend William accompanied her, carrying a basket while she carried a pitcher.

“Will!” Morgana called with delight. “I thought you had to weed the garden this morning?”

Will? Arthur thought. When did she get so familiar with him?

“Gwen caught me as I was finishing up,” Will replied. “Told me the news.” He looked over at Arthur. “A physician’s been brought.”

“Gaius is a gifted healer,” Morgana said. “I have faith in him.”

“Then I’m grateful,” Will said. He dipped his head to Arthur.

Will and Gwen sat across from Arthur and Morgana. Will opened the basket and passed out apples and cups, and Gwen poured water for them. They started up conversation as they ate – except for Arthur, who was famished and ate his apple in no more than four bites.

Morgana, Gwen, and Will seemed well acquainted now. They laughed often when they spoke. Evidently, Will had been teaching the ladies about the village gossip and was keeping them updated.

Arthur leaned back as Gwen poured them more water. His eyes fixed on a cloud drifting across the sun. The overlapping voices of the other three muted and, without meaning to, Arthur fell asleep.

When he awoke, it was nearly twilight, and he was sitting alone with Will.

“They’ve gone to Hunith’s,” Will said of Gwen and Morgana. “They took your bedroll. You could go and sleep.”

Arthur wasn’t sure what to make of Will anymore. They hadn’t liked each other at the start, and Will was a thorn in Arthur’s side through the entire experience. But he had returned to fight for Ealdor, and – Arthur was sure – for Merlin.

Arthur had pieced together some understanding of the relationship between his servant and this villager. Merlin had chased after Will after the scene at the town meeting and knew about Will’s personal history. He had, somehow, convinced Will to return and fight for his village.

Merlin and Will trusted one another. So even when Arthur had wanted to dislike Will, he didn’t. He had respected Merlin’s judgment of character.

“Did you fall asleep again?” Will asked, breaking through Arthur’s thoughts.

“No,” he said. Then, “I think I’ll stay.”

Will hummed. He leaned forward and picked at the grass. He was silent awhile. Eventually, he said, “Merlin didn’t think you were coming back.”

Arthur hesitated. “He thought the same about you,” he said.

“I came back.”

“So did I.”

“You didn’t think you would, though,” Will said. “Did you?”

Arthur supposed the villager spoke from experience. “No.”

The last of the sun’s rays fell behind the trees, and gray fell over the village. Evening clouds were gathering; rain was coming.

Arthur spoke. “How did you know about the magic?” he asked.

Will leaned back against the barn. “I lived with them for a winter when my father died,” he explained, “and there are some things that you can’t hide when you sleep beneath the same blanket on the floor.”

“How old were you?” Arthur asked.

“Eight.”

Arthur hummed. “That’s a long time to keep a secret,” he said.

“Not compared to Merlin,” Will replied. “He kept it his whole life.”

Arthur felt a drop of water. He looked up into the darkening sky as it began to rain.

Will turned to Arthur. “This is all my fault,” he confessed. “I kept saying to use the magic against Kanen’s men. I need to know. What’s going to happen to him?”

Arthur had spent so much time thinking about it, and yet when asked, he was speechless. His eyes turned and fixed on the grass as the rain began to patter. He tried to think of a reasonable answer, but every option felt wrong.

Then a ragged scream split the air. Arthur’s blood went cold as he recognized Merlin’s voice. He cast a glance at Will, who looked as disturbed as Arthur felt.

The pair sat with their backs against the barn. The drizzle became a downpour, and soon, their hair was flattened to their heads and their shirts stuck to their backs. They listened as Merlin’s voice twisted with agony.

Arthur had faced losing men before. He’d walked into battle with more men than those who came home. He’d also seen countless executions, and watched dozens of sorcerers meet their end. None of it prepared him for hearing Merlin fight for his life through a wall.

Chapter Text

Arthur had faced losing men before. He’d walked into battle with more men than those who came home. He’d also seen countless executions, and watched dozens of sorcerers meet their end. None of it prepared him for hearing Merlin fight for his life through a wall.

Merlin ached all over. He wanted to make a sound to voice his pain, but his throat was raw. He managed to pry his eyes open, though, and that was a start.

He awoke to his mother. Her face, still faintly bruised, drew Merlin’s recent memories of Ealdor. Then he saw Gaius, of all people. But Gaius is in Camelot? Merlin thought.

He croaked hello, and then he fell back asleep.

The next time Merlin clawed back to consciousness, it was to Will’s grinning face.

“Welcome back. Looks like you beat it,” his friend said smugly. “Told you."

“Never doubted it,” Merlin rasped, and broke off into a cough. “What happened to my throat?” he asked.

Will’s face darkened. “You were yelling half the night,” he said. “Only stopped when your fever broke before dawn.”

Merlin didn’t remember it.                

Gwen and Morgana came to visit next. They told him more about what had happened while he was sick. But halfway through their story, Merlin fell asleep.

And when he awoke, Arthur was there.

Arthur’s head lifted at the sight of Merlin’s open eyes. “How do you feel?” he asked.

“Never been better,” Merlin said hoarsely. Arthur didn’t laugh. “I’m told I have you to thank for bringing Gaius,” Merlin continued. And when he looked up, he was surprised to find that Arthur didn’t look away.

“Thank you for taking that bolt for me,” Arthur replied. He paused. “And…for the light.”

Merlin’s brow furrowed. “Light?”

“Through the night, coming from Camelot,” Arthur said. “There was a light. I thought –“

“Oh,” Merlin said. “That’s right – Gwen mentioned some magic.”

Arthur gave him a look. “You don’t remember?” he asked.

“I was delirious,” Merlin reminded him.

Disdain came over Arthur’s face. “You can use magic when you’re delirious, and yet you take three weeks to fold the wash?”

Merlin’s eyes flew wide at Arthur’s playful tone. He laughed, but immediately squeezed his eyes shut. “Don’t make me laugh,” he said through a smile. “It hurts.”

Arthur watched Merlin for a few moments, then asked, “Why don’t you use magic?” Merlin gave him a curious look. “To heal yourself,” Arthur clarified. “Why don’t you use magic?”

“I…haven’t learned any healing magic yet,” Merlin said. He gave a wry grin. “Maybe I should make that a priority.” Arthur huffed and rolled his eyes. “Feels strange,” Merlin said, “to talk about this…with you.”

“Yeah.” Arthur looked past Merlin. “I thought I knew you,” he said.

“I’m still the same person,” Merlin replied after a beat.

“That’s what Morgana said,” Arthur recalled. “But if that’s true, then…”

“What?”

“Then I don’t know what to do.” Arthur swallowed. “All my life, I’ve thought…sorcery was a choice. That the only ones who sought it were weak-willed or outright evil. Knowing that, I could…” He trailed off. “It was what my father taught me,” he said, “and I’ve been a loyal prince.”

“And now?” Merlin asked.

“Now I don’t know what I am,” Arthur admitted. “A loyal prince would have brought you straight to my father. Instead, I brought you a physician.” He met Merlin’s eyes. “What does that make me?”

Merlin waited, then realized Arthur was actually looking for an answer. “It makes you a different king than your father,” Merlin said. “A merciful one. And, to people like me…that’s not exactly a bad thing.”

He expected Arthur to reprimand him, to extol his father’s leadership. But to Merlin’s surprise, Arthur bowed his head. “I don’t know what to do,” he said again. “I’ve already betrayed my father by bringing Gaius here. He’s going to have questions, wonder why I brought a physician for a servant who didn’t return with me, and I –“

“Am I not returning with you?” Merlin asked.

Arthur was incredulous. “You want to come back to Camelot?”

“Well – yes.”

“Why?” Arthur asked.

To Merlin, it was obvious. But perhaps Arthur didn’t yet understand. “For you,” Merlin said.

Arthur wasn’t convinced. “If my father discovered magic so close to me…he’d burn you,” he said. “Why would you risk that?”

Merlin hesitated. “It’s my destiny,” he said. “Has been since the day we met.”

“I tried to take your head off with a mace,” Arthur reminded him.

Merlin couldn’t help the smile creeping on his face. “But you didn't, because I stopped you – using magic.”

Arthur’s eyes widened. “You cheated!” he exclaimed. He regarded Merlin for a few moments. Then he said, “You actually want to come back to Camelot?”

“Yes.”

“You do know what you’re asking of me?” Arthur said. “I would have to pretend that I know nothing about your magic. You’re asking me to lie to my father’s face.”

“…Yes,” Merlin said again.

“And you’re not just asking me to lie,” Arthur said, “but Morgana and Guinevere as well.”

Merlin lowered his eyes. It did sound unreasonable. “…Yes.”

Arthur shook his head. “If my father –“

That’s when Merlin cut him off, surprising them both. “It’s not about your father,” Merlin said. “It’s about you, and what you believe is right.”

Arthur lowered his gaze. He looked lost for a moment. Then he asked, “When does Gaius think you’ll be travel-ready?”

“A few days, at the very least.”

Arthur nodded. “That gives us time, then,” he said.

Merlin frowned. “For what?”

“To align our stories – you, me, Gaius, Morgana, and Guinevere.” Arthur looked up. “We will have to be united in secrecy. There will be no more lies between us, Merlin,” he said firmly.

“None,” Merlin agreed. His head felt light. Was this really happening?

Arthur stood. “You should rest,” he said. “I’ll talk to the others.”

“Of course,” Merlin said. Arthur started towards the door. His hand was on the doorknob when Merlin called after him. “Arthur?” Arthur turned his head and gave him an inquiring look. “…Thank you.”

Chapter Text

PART 1 RECAP:

Merlin confesses to using magic in the battle for Ealdor, then takes the crossbow bolt for Arthur. Hunith, Will, Gwen, and Morgana help Merlin recover while Arthur faces his perspective on magic. When Merlin's wound worsens, Arthur brings Gaius to help. Ultimately, Arthur accepts Merlin's powers - but they will be "united in secrecy" going forward.

CANON DIVERGENCES:

Will is alive!

Arthur, Gwen, and Morgana know about Merlin's magic.

Chapter Text

PROLOGUE

Storm clouds drifted overhead, moonlight seeping through the weaker spots and cast stretching shadows across the citadel. There was a flash of light, and the low rumble of thunder suddenly exploded with a crack.

Morgana awoke screaming.

Gwen was quick to appear in the doorway, calling out to her lady. “Morgana?” She realized what was happening immediately and came close to the bed. “Morgana! Wake up!” She reached out and touched Morgana’s arm, but Morgana pulled away, still staring into the nightmare.

“No!” Morgana pleaded. When Gwen didn’t let go, her voice rose hysterically. “No!”

“Morgana, wake up,” Gwen said. “Morgana, it’s me, it’s Gwen – stop it,” she insisted, holding Morgana’s shoulders. She crouched and put herself in Morgana’s line of sight, running her hands over Morgana’s face. “It was just another dream,” she assured.

Morgana took a shaky breath, but her eyes finally cleared to see her maidservant. She reached out and touched her, like she needed something tangible to prove that she was truly awake. Her eyes welled with tears. “It was terrifying,” she choked out.

Gwen sat down on the bed and pulled her lady into a hug. “It’s alright,” she murmured.

“No,” Morgana whispered. “It’s terrible, he –“

Gwen pulled back, keeping her hands on Morgana’s shoulders. “It was only a dream,” she said gently.

“No…” Morgana shook her head. “No, it –“ Another storm wind rattled the window, and Morgana took her chance. She steeled her courage, pulled her maidservant into another embrace, and spoke urgently into Gwen’s ear.

Chapter Text

Gwen pulled back, keeping her hands on Morgana’s shoulders. “It was only a dream,” she said gently.

“No…” Morgana shook her head. “No, it –“ Another storm wind rattled the window, and Morgana took her chance. She steeled her courage, pulled her maidservant into another embrace, and spoke urgently into Gwen’s ear.

It killed Sir Bedivere. It was causing panic among the people. Gaius called it the Questing Beast.

“We must kill it,” King Uther had declared simply. He told Arthur, “You ride at dawn.”

Merlin needed to wake early for all sorts of preparation – sharpening swords, readying the horses, rousing the prince. He fully expected to be awake before the sun, but what he didn’t expect was to be awoken abruptly by the sound of pounding knocks at Gaius’s door.

Merlin sat up in bed, glancing toward the window. The glass was slick with rain, and the clouds outside were flickering with distant lightning. But the moon was high in the sky – it was nowhere near morning.

Merlin got to his feet and crept forward, listening as Gaius opened the door to the chambers. The physician sounded surprised when he named the visitors. “Morgana,” he said. “Guinevere. What brings you?”

“We need your help, Gaius,” Gwen said. “Could we have a word in private?”

“Yes – yes, of course,” Gaius said. “Please, come in.”

Merlin listened as the ladies entered the chamber, and as Gaius closed and latched the door. “What is this about?” Gaius asked.

“We need your help,” Morgana repeated urgently. In a softer voice, she added, “Yours and Merlin’s.”

Merlin froze.

“I see,” Gaius said. “I’ll go and wake him.”

Merlin didn’t even try to pretend he’d still been asleep. He opened his door and came down the steps into the chamber. “What’s wrong?” he said.

Morgana didn’t hesitate. “Something awful is going to happen,” she said, approaching close enough that Merlin could see the tears in her eyes. “I saw it. I have seen terrible things.”

Merlin raised his gaze to Gaius, whose face had gone stony. He looked back to Morgana. “What do you mean?” he asked. “You had a dream?”

“It’s more than that,” Morgana said. “I know it. My dreams – they are visions.” She looked between Merlin and Gaius. “I – I have tried to believe they were only nightmares, but…but after all we’ve seen, I can’t. Not anymore. Please, you must believe me.”

“What did you see, Morgana?” Merlin asked quietly.

Morgana told him. She told him of Arthur’s deadly fate.

She finished with a desperate plea. “We have to stop this from happening – we must! Please, Merlin.” Merlin was the only one who saw her eyes flash gold before she reached for his wrists, and then–

a terrifying pursuit

desperate screams into the rain

Arthur sick and dying

Merlin recoiled out of Morgana’s grasp, stumbling backwards until he fell onto the steps. He could hear Gaius calling his name, and he could faintly see Morgana’s horrified expression. But he was still reeling, head buzzing with strange visions –

a dragon’s roar and a jet of flames

a beast lunging, jaws parted

the death of Arthur

Merlin’s chest heaved with shuddering breaths. For a moment, he was sure he would pass out; the bombardment of prophecy was too much. Then he felt hands on his shoulders, heard Gaius’s voice. “Merlin? Can you hear me?” Gaius demanded.

Merlin blinked, trying to pull himself back into the present. “I saw it,” he said hoarsely.

Morgana rushed to kneel by Merlin’s side. “You did?” she breathed. “You saw it?”

Gaius leaned in. “Merlin, look at me,” he said. Merlin tried, but he couldn’t move. He could barely breathe. Gaius took Merlin’s face and turned it toward him. “What did you see?”

Merlin finally snapped out of his trance. “The Questing Beast,” he said. He looked between Gaius and Morgana. “It bit Arthur, he was dying.”

Morgana’s eyes welled with tears again, but this time there was a hint of relief. “It’s true,” she whispered. “It’s really true – it wasn’t a dream.”

“The Questing Beast?” Gwen echoed. “What is that?”

Gaius lowered his head, then rose to his feet. “It is a creature of the Old Religion that has power over life and death. It has been terrorizing the forest, and the king has ordered Arthur to kill it.” He paused, then continued solemnly, “I fear Morgana is right; it was a prophecy. You have seen something that is coming to pass.”

Morgana looked caught between hope and horror. “It’s true. It’s true,” she kept whispering. Gwen came close and knelt beside her, putting an arm around her.

“No – no, it won’t happen,” Merlin said, pushing himself up to sit on the steps. “It can’t – I won’t let it.” He looked right into Morgana’s eyes. “I will protect him. I will keep Arthur safe; I swear it.”

Gwen inclined her head. “And you?” she asked. Merlin looked at her, not understanding, until she said, “You need to be careful, too.”

“We need you both to come home safe,” Morgana agreed.

Gwen took one of his hands in her own. “Promise.”

Merlin looked between his friends. “I swear,” he said. He let Gaius help him to his feet. “The only one who dies today is the Questing Beast.”

Chapter Text

“We need you both to come home safe,” Morgana agreed.

Gwen took one of his hands in her own. “Promise.”

Merlin looked between his friends. “I swear,” he said. He let Gaius help him to his feet. “The only one who dies today is the Questing Beast.”

Arthur was already awake when Merlin entered his chambers. He greeted his servant with an earnest nod, and Merlin returned it with a sense of relief; Arthur seemed to be taking the Questing Beast seriously, even if his father wouldn’t.

At Gaius’s request, Merlin didn’t mention Morgana’s dream. Arthur could not be distracted when going into danger he is already destined not to survive. Morgana, finally aware of her prophetic powers, would need guidance – but that was something to address after the Questing Beast was slain.

In silence, Merlin helped Arthur prepare. The prince waited until Merlin was latching his armor to speak, and even then, he kept his voice so low that only Merlin could hear it. “Do you know if you could kill it?” he asked.

Merlin’s fingers froze for a moment, and he didn’t seem to know how to answer.

“With your magic,” Arthur clarified.

“I knew what you meant,” Merlin said, resuming his focus on Arthur’s gauntlet. “I’m just…surprised you’d mention it.”

“Well, can you?” Arthur asked impatiently.

“I’m not sure; I’ve never fought a Questing Beast before.”

Arthur snorted. “Nobody has, Merlin. Do we know anything about it?”

“…It’s a creature of the Old Religion,” Merlin offered. “It’s said to be a sign of great upheaval.” He paused, then added, “Its venom is fatal. Incurable.”

Arthur’s expression soured. “Great.”

Merlin stopped and met his eyes. “We’ll think of something,” he said. “We will not fail.”

It was around midday when they found the creature’s lair. Arthur and Merlin split from the rest of the guard and wandered into the tunnels.

They came to a fork in the path. One tunnel sloped upward, the other down. Arthur nodded toward the downward path, and Merlin pointed the torch toward it.

When they reached the bottom, they emerged into a cavern. There were at least three other openings.

Arthur heard a long, drawn-out hiss. He held out his arm to halt Merlin in his tracks.

“What is it?” Merlin asked.

“Ssh.”

They heard a wet growl from behind them. Arthur and Merlin turned to see the Questing Beast’s enormous frame looming. Its eyes locked with Arthur’s.

As it reared up with a hiss, Merlin lifted his arms with palms facing out. “Forþeccan!” he shouted as the Questing Beast descended. Its paws slammed down against an invisible force, and Merlin’s arms shook.

Arthur looked overhead – there was another tunnel opening. If I attack from above…

“Keep it distracted!” Arthur commanded. He hurried back through the tunnel they’d come and reached the upward sloping path.

The Questing Beast’s hiss echoed through the tunnels. Arthur heard Merlin shout something – another spell?

Arthur climbed the slope. There was a loud slam, and the walls shook. Arthur started to see torchlight up ahead. He had to be close.

When he emerged at the top of the cavern, Arthur looked down. His gut clenched as he saw Merlin face down in a pile of bones, the Questing Beast approaching with a growl rumbling in its throat.

Arthur shouted for the creature’s attention. It turned, eyes gleaming with delight for a live hunt, and began to prowl forward.

Arthur roared and leapt from the ledge. His sword sank deep into the neck of the beast. Bright light spilled from the wound in place of blood.

Arthur rolled as he hit the ground, then looked up to watch.

Light burst from Questing Beast’s mouth as it roared. It thrashed, staggering left, then right, attempting to dislodge the sword from its neck. The light at the site of the wound poured faster, brighter –

The attempts grew weaker. The bright light began to dim.

And then the beast collapsed to the ground, gave a hiss, and was still. Arthur stared at its flank, awaiting a final breath, but there was none.

Arthur hastened over to his manservant, who was propping himself up on shaky elbows. “Is it over?” Merlin said, sounding numb.

“The Questing Beast dead,” Arthur said. He extended his hand for Merlin to take, but the servant swayed the moment he was upright. Arthur caught him. “What is it?” he demanded. He lowered Merlin to the ground again, and as he knelt, he saw blood glinting on the bones. “Damn it, Merlin, are you hurt? Did it bite you?”

With Arthur’s help, Merlin slumped to the ground and stared up into nothing. His eyes were closing.

“Merlin, are you bitten?” Arthur snapped, but he didn’t get any response. He gave Merlin’s shoulder a jostle. “Merlin – Merlin!”

Arthur searched for the source of the blood, not finding any bite marks on Merlin’s legs or his arms or his side – but then he saw dark stains of blood drops on Merlin’s jacket shoulder. Then he noticed the stream of red around Merlin’s ear.

Only a head wound. There was a thick gash behind Merlin’s temple. Arthur sat back on his heels, and despite himself, he almost laughed with dizzying relief.

Arthur wrapped bandages around the injury. He wound the roll around Merlin’s head five times, until it stopped seeping red. Arthur tucked the end of the bandage under the rest of the wrapping. It didn’t look pretty, nor was it very effective. But it was bandaged.

Arthur went back to the dead Questing Beast and drew his sword from its neck. He sheathed it, returned to where Merlin was stirring. “You about finished your nap, then?” he said.

The servant’s lips began to move, but he didn’t seem to say any words.

“Merlin,” Arthur said. There was no acknowledgement; Merlin kept whispering to himself and taking long blinks between staring up at the cave walls. Arthur leaned forward. “Merlin,” he prompted again, to no answer.

Arthur knelt beside his manservant and listened closely. Only inches from Merlin’s face, Arthur could finally pick out some words. Something about a storm?  he thought. A boar? Exasperation crept into his tone. “You’re not making sense. Come on, you need to see Gaius.”

Merlin’s eyes opened and stayed open. “What? Why?”

“Because your head’s bleeding, now get up.”

“My…” Merlin raised a hand to hover over the bandages. He touched where they covered the gash and winced, drawing his hand back in front of his face. “Ow.” A moment later, Merlin finally seemed to recognize Arthur. “Oh. You weren’t bitten?”

Arthur rolled his eyes. “I’m fine,” he said. “You’re not bitten, either. Now will you get up? I don’t want to spend another minute in this place.” Arthur stood and held out a hand to help his servant to his feet.

Merlin’s attention seemed elsewhere again. “I guess it’s supposed be shrouded in mystery,” he muttered. “But it already…or, will be? Is it?”

Arthur resisted the urge to roll his eyes again and humored his concussed servant. “What?”

“The end of the boar.”

“For gods’ sake –“ Arthur grasped his arm and pulled him to his feet. He threw Merlin’s arm around his shoulder and led them through bones to the tunnel they’d come.

Chapter Text

“For gods’ sake –“ Arthur grasped his arm and pulled him to his feet. He threw Merlin’s arm around his shoulder and led them through bones to the tunnel they’d come.

Before the Questing Beast patrol had left, Gaius gave Morgana a ladleful of sleeping draught and bottled another for Gwen. The pair returned to Morgana’s chambers without issue. Upon entering, Gwen locked the door, opened the window, and sat beside Morgana in her bed.

“Try to get some rest,” Gwen said. “The patrol won’t be back for some time.”

They were quiet and still, but it didn’t do much good for rest. Around mid-morning, the sound of horses’ hooves in the courtyard made Morgana jump up from her bed and rush to the window. It turned out to just be the return of a routine patrol. Morgana went back to her bed.

The second time they heard hooves, Morgana tensed but she didn’t rise. Then there was a loud shout from outside, and this time both Morgana and Gwen rushed to the window - only to see a cart unloading a shipment.

Morgana and Gwen didn’t get up to check after that, but horses and knights had continued their comings and goings. By noon, they each had only managed to sleep for about thirty minutes. As the hours passed, the activity outside slowed. There were less horses walking on the castle stones, less knights shouting and running. Still, Morgana and Gwen stirred every time.

Then, late in the afternoon, Gwen heard Morgana’s breathing slow to an even rhythm – the king’s ward was asleep. I hope it’s not another vision, Gwen thought. But any sleep is better than none.

As the sun set, Gwen noticed herself blinking slower and longer. She didn’t notice when exactly she nodded off, but eventually she opened her eyes to an utterly dark room. She considered checking the window or lighting a candle, but didn’t dare move and risk waking Morgana.

“This is agony,” Morgana suddenly murmured. Gwen blinked, turning to look at her lady in the dark. Gwen couldn’t see Morgana’s expression, but she heard the pain in her voice as Morgana said, “I’ve never felt so powerless.”

“That couldn’t be further from the truth,” Gwen said at once. “I think what you’ve done is the most valuable thing that anyone could have. You were right to share your dream with Gaius and Merlin – maybe you've prevented it.”

“Gaius didn’t seem to think it could be done,” Morgana said.

“If Gaius thought it was hopeless, he wouldn’t have asked you for all the vision’s details,” Gwen pointed out. “You gave Merlin more to protect Arthur with.”

Morgana turned and smiled at her servant. “You’re too good to me, Gwen,” she murmured. Gwen returned the smile and leaned into her lady’s shoulder. They sat in relaxed silence for some time. Then, Morgana said, “I wonder what happens next.”

“About what? Your powers?” Gwen asked. Morgana didn’t answer, and Gwen added, “What do you want to happen?”

Morgana bowed her head to think. “I’ve spent so long wondering if it was really magic – I don’t know what to do with myself now that I know it is.” She swallowed. “There’s so much we still don’t know, though. I’ve always known they weren’t nightmares, but I couldn’t see how it was possible for it to be…anything else.”

“We’ve never heard of someone having magic who didn’t study it first,” Gwen agreed.

“Yes. And now I know you can be born with it, and I…” Morgana trailed off. Gwen nodded, encouraging Morgana to continue. “I wonder if I can do more than I know,” she finished.

Gwen covered her lady’s hand with her own and leaned against her. “You wonder if you can cast magic, too?” she guessed softly. “I’ve wondered, too. We’ll find out, if that’s what you want.”

The sound of horses’ hooves clacking in the courtyard began to echo through Morgana’s window. Gwen felt her lady tense, and she looked to see Morgana losing all the color in her cheeks she’d finally regained. She looked like she was going to be sick, and her fingers were shaking. Gwen gave her hand a squeeze.

Morgana’s eyes were misting, but she focused her gaze on Gwen’s. “Please, could you look? I don’t think I can.”

“Of course,” Gwen said. She gave Morgana another squeeze and stood.

Gwen’s heart was in her throat as she approached the window. Being scared won’t change what I see, Gwen reminded herself. She pulled courage from within, and looked down.

The torch firelight was too dim to see details, but Gwen could just make out the shapes of six horses. The riders appeared to be knights, save for one.

“They’re back.”

Chapter Text

In the darkest hours of the night, the torch firelight was low. It was too dim to see details, but Gwen could just make out the shapes of six horses. The riders appeared to be knights, save for one.

“They’re back.”

Gaius, inspecting Merlin’s wound at his table, tutted as he removed the bandage. “Any ringing in your ears?” he asked.

“No.”

“Blurry vision?”

“No.”

“Nausea?”

“Only a little – I’m fine,” Merlin said. There was a scoff from Arthur on his left. Merlin sat still, but he turned an eye. “All right, I felt weird earlier, but I’m fine now.”

“You spoke nonsense for nearly the entire ride,” Arthur said. “You didn’t recognize Sir Leon. Called him ‘Knight of the Round’,” he explained to Gaius. “Never heard of him go by that, have you?” Rounding on Merlin, he added, “And don’t say ‘he will’, because that didn’t make sense the first time, either.”

“Merlin, do you remember any of this?” Gaius asked.

“Well…” Merlin trailed off and hesitated. “Not really,” he admitted.

Gaius lifted his chin. “I see,” he said. He looked over his shoulder. “It’s a concussion for sure, Sire, but it will likely heal quickly.”

Arthur accepted this answer. “Well, if it’s the worst that happened when face-to-face with that Questing Beast…” he mused. He bowed his head to the physician. “Thank you, Gaius. I’ll take my leave; my father will be expecting a report.”

Merlin watched Arthur leave, then winced as Gaius brushed away crusted blood from the injury. “Hold still,” Gaius said. The physician focused on his work for a few moments, then sat back. “What do you remember?”

“Not much, really.” Merlin furrowed his brow. “It was strange. I know I saw more prophecies. There were thousands of them. But this time, I felt like I understood it. Everything about the future of Camelot was connected, and I knew exactly when things would happen, why, how.”

“Do you remember any of these visions?” Gaius asked.

“Nothing that makes sense now,” Merlin said. “It was so confusing. Like I knew too much. It wouldn’t end, and I couldn’t remember what had happened yet and what hadn’t. It was hard to tell when I really was.”

Gaius frowned. “I can’t say I’ve heard of such a thing,” he admitted. “But for now, I expect you to rest. We won’t understand a thing any better while you’re injured.” Gaius stood. “Whatever’s happened, you do still have a concussion.”

Merlin, still lost in thought, didn’t answer. The crease in Gaius’ brow betrayed his troubled thoughts, but he didn’t press it.

As soon as his report to Uther was fulfilled, Arthur headed for his bed. Morgana caught him at the door to his chambers. “We need to talk,” she said.

“Hello to you, too,” Arthur said. “Whatever it is, it’ll have to wait until morning; I’ve been kept up late enough with delirious gibberish.”

“It can’t wait,” Morgana said. “I want it over with.”

Arthur gave her a shrewd look. “What on earth is that supposed to mean?” Morgana kept her glare on him. “All right, fine,” he said. “What is it?” Morgana narrowed her eyes and nodded towards his door. Arthur sighed, opened the door, and gestured for her to enter.

Morgana stepped inside and waited. Arthur followed, and then she pulled a chair out from his table. “Sit,” she said.

“Morgana, you can’t just –“

Morgana cut him off with a frustrated cry. “Arthur, I need you to listen to me. Sit down.”

Arthur locked eyes with her. Something changed in his expression, a kind of concerned understanding. As he sat, he asked, “What’s wrong?”

Morgana sat in the chair opposite him and spoke without preamble. “My nightmares are prophecies, and I think the only reason you’re alive right now is because of things I saw in a vision of your death.”

Arthur set his face in stone, but Morgana thought she saw his eyes flash with panic. “Go on,” he said.

Morgana didn’t give herself time to hesitate. “My dreams have come true before,” she said. “No matter how many times it’s happened, everyone says it’s nightmare and coincidence – but these aren’t just dreams. The things I see, and how precisely they play out in the future – it can be nothing else but magic.”

Arthur looked like he was barely holding something back, but waited for Morgana to continue.

“Last night, I dreamed that you were dying. I didn’t know how it was supposed to happen, but I knew it would happen, and soon, so I went to Gaius and Merlin for help.”

At this, Arthur finally spoke. “Merlin knew about this?”

“He saw it, too,” Morgana replied.

“He didn’t mention anything of it.”

There was a hint of accusation in Arthur’s voice. But Morgana, recognizing the hurt in face, said, “Don’t blame him. He wanted to. He wanted you to go with everything we knew – but Gaius didn’t think it was a good idea to distract you on a day you were already prophesied to die.”

Arthur thought a moment. “Gaius makes a good point,” he conceded.

Morgana waited for him to say more. When he didn’t, she said, “Well?”

“Well, what?” Arthur asked. “Morgana, it’s past midnight. Whatever was supposed to happen, didn’t. I’m not dead or dying. We’ll add this to the list of things that need figuring out, but there’s nothing that can’t wait until you get some sleep.” Arthur stood from the table. “I’ll walk you to your chambers,” he offered, and started toward the door.

Normally, Morgana would scoff at him for hollow chivalry. But this time, she stood and accepted the escort without a word. They walked the halls of the castle in silence. It was only when they were in front of Morgana’s chamber door that Arthur finally spoke again.

Keeping his voice low, Arthur said, “The Questing Beast is supposed to be a sign of great upheaval. I suppose things are changing.” Morgana fixed him with a curious look, but Arthur turned to walk away. “We’ll talk more tomorrow.”

Morgana opened her door, but didn’t enter yet. “Thank you, Arthur,” she said.

Arthur looked over his shoulder. “You too. Sleep well, Morgana.”

Chapter Text

Keeping his voice low, Arthur said, “The Questing Beast is supposed to be a sign of great upheaval. I suppose things are changing.” Morgana fixed him with a curious look, but Arthur turned to walk away. “We’ll talk more tomorrow.”

Morgana opened her door, but didn’t enter yet. “Thank you, Arthur,” she said.

Arthur looked over his shoulder. “You too. Sleep well, Morgana.”

The sky was hinting at sunrise as Gwen made her way to Gaius’s. She knocked on the door urgently, then waited. She could hardly stand the silence, and raised her hand to knock again, but then she heard footsteps approach on the other side.

The door unlatched. When it swung open, Merlin was standing in front of her. Gwen’s heart leapt. “Merlin!” she gasped, and before she knew it, she had pulled him into a fierce hug. “Arthur was alone when he reported to his father, and I couldn’t find Gaius, and –“

“It’s okay, Gwen,” Merlin reassured her. “We did it. We’re both okay.”

Gwen drew back, her eyes not losing their worry. “What happened to your head?” she asked, reaching up towards his bandages.

“I hit it on some rocks,” Merlin said. “Gaius said I have a concussion, but he doesn’t seem too worried about it. He just said to rest and then he went herb picking.”

Gwen’s eyes widened. “Oh, right. You need to rest. I’m sorry,” she said, cheeks flushing. “You should rest, then. I probably woke you, didn’t I? Sorry, I was just –“

“It’s okay,” Merlin cut her off. “You didn’t wake me.” Gwen made a face that implied he looked far too tired for that to be true, and Merlin added, “Couldn't sleep.”

Gwen put a hand on his arm. “Do you need anything?” she asked. “Would tea help?”

Merlin smiled. “It couldn’t hurt,” he said.

Several minutes later, Gwen was pouring two cups of calming tea. “How did you do it?” she asked, handing Merlin one and sitting on the bench beside him. “The way Gaius spoke, it sounded as if…prophecies can’t be changed.”

“I don’t know,” Merlin admitted. “Prophecies always seem to get fulfilled one way or another. Most times I try to fix a ‘destiny’ thing, it’s never as simple as it seems. This was almost easy. I would be worried that things are about to go wrong, except…”

“Except?” Gwen pressed.

“Except it was Morgana who saw it.” He turned and met Gwen’s eyes. “I believe her dreams are prophecies, and so does Gaius. But I’ve been able to prevent hers before.”

“You have?”

Merlin nodded. “Do you remember Sophia?” he asked. “She and her father, Aulfric, came to Camelot –“

“Morgana dreamed that she would drown Arthur,” Gwen blurted out. Looking embarrassed for the outburst, she added, “Morgana’s told me what she has dreamed before. Sometimes it helps to talk about them.” She gave Merlin a tentative smile. “I’ve actually suspected they were visions for some time.”

A rush of affection had Merlin returning her smile before he carried on. “It was true. Sophia did try to drown Arthur. She and her father were Sidhe. Fairy people,” he clarified, and Gwen nodded. “When Gaius learned what they were, he told me about Morgana’s vision. I managed to keep it from happening.”

“And it’s never come true another way,” Gwen finished. She furrowed her brow. “But why would Morgana’s visions be preventable, and others not?”

“I’m not sure,” Merlin admitted. “So far, it’s prevented two disasters. Well, it’s a nice change… How is Morgana?” he asked.

“I think…” Gwen shrugged. “I think she’s more relieved than anything.”

Merlin raised his eyebrows. “She’s not scared?” He sounded earnestly impressed.

Gwen sighed. “Oh, yes, Merlin, we’re scared. But Morgana… She’s been having these dreams since she was a child, and she’s wondered if was magic since the very first. Guessing, but not knowing, and not being allowed to ask – it was eating her alive.”

“She has us now,” Merlin said, a little forcefully. Gwen gave him a curious look, and he continued, “Gaius knows a lot about magic. He’s known she was a seer for years, but didn’t want to put her in danger. But now she knows, and there’s nothing stopping us from helping Morgana study magic. She isn’t alone; she has all of us.”

The conviction in Merlin’s voice told Gwen that this was something he had thought for some time. And probably not just about Morgana, she guessed. She reached over and put her hands over Merlin’s. “That’s exactly why she’s more relieved than scared,” she said softly. Merlin nodded, lowering his eyes to his teacup with a muted expression. “What is it?” Gwen asked.

Merlin replied without looking up. “Just tired.”

“You should get some rest,” Gwen said.

“I keep trying,” Merlin said. “But I can’t get to sleep.” He hesitated, then amended, “I can’t stay asleep.”

Gwen frowned. “You don’t have prophetic dreams like Morgana, do you?”

“No,” Merlin said. “I’d never seen the future before seeing Morgana’s vision. And then I got knocked on the head, and things just…” He didn’t offer anything further; Gwen noticed her friend’s shoulders tensing in the silence.

“Is it painful?” Gwen asked. “When you saw Morgana’s vision, you looked like…” She trailed off.

“Not painful,” Merlin said. “More…” He struggled for the word. Finally, he sighed, “Terrifying.”

Gwen pursed her lips. Then she moved her hands to share the weight of Merlin's teacup. “Even if it’s hard, you need rest,” she said. Merlin gave a mirthless huff. “I could stay with you,” she offered. Merlin looked up, caught between surprised and confusion. Gwen felt herself blush. “I – sometimes, I’ll stay by Morgana. Nearby, while she’s asleep – just in case. She says it helps.” The last of her words were in a bit of a mumble, and it brought a small smile to Merlin's eyes.

“It couldn’t hurt," he conceded, and let Gwen take the teacup out of his hands.

Chapter Text

PART 2 RECAP:

After another of Morgana's nightmares, she and Gwen seek help from Gaius and Merlin. Without meaning to, Morgana briefly shares her prophetic powers with Merlin, and he sees Arthur's death at the jaws of the Questing Beast. Working with the information they have, Merlin is guided to prevent the horrible future. While fighting the creature, Merlin receives a head injury that exacerbates some leftover prophecy powers from Morgana. Gwen and Morgana speculate on her powers and how she can develop them. When Arthur returns to Camelot, Morgana forces him to sit and listen while she divulges her innate magic. Arthur quotes Gaius that the Questing Beast "a sign of great upheaval" and that "things are changing.”

CANON DIVERGENCES:

Morgana knows about her magic!

Merlin has seen some prophecies.

Questing Beast didn't bite Arthur -> no one offered their life in exchange -> no battle with Nimueh -> Nimueh is still alive

WHO KNOWS WHAT:

Merlin, Arthur, Morgana, Gwen, Gaius all know about both Merlin and Morgana's magic

Chapter Text

A couple hours past midnight, Gwen and Merlin ran into each other in the pantry. Merlin, dark-eyed and dusty, and Gwen, sitting cross-legged with a basket of nuts.

Gwen smiled up at her friend and scooched over so he could join. As Merlin slumped beside her, she dropped a handful of nuts into his palm.

“Thanks,” Merlin said. He tilted his head back to ate the entire handful. “What brings you here?”

“Oh, I…” Gwen waved her hand. “Just woke up hungry. Must have forgotten to eat supper.”

“Busy evening?”

“I – well, I was eager to get home, go to bed.” Gwen shrugged, then gave Merlin a rueful smile. “Morgana – we had a long night, the one before last.”

Merlin’s shoulders tensed. “Right.” Morgana’s dreams, premonitions of the future, were overwhelming. He knew it all too well, now. He had glimpsed an ounce of what Morgana dealt with nightly. “Anything…in particular?”

“Not really,” Gwen said. “Just the usual. Although…” She gave Merlin a smile. “For the most part, it’s gotten better.”

Merlin couldn’t help but return the smile. “Yeah?” He leaned over, and in a quieter voice, said, “Does she still want to…learn more?”

Gwen chuckled and lowered her head. “Not in the castle, but yes.” She looked over at Merlin and nudged his knee with her own. “Anyway, why are you here so late?” She gave her friend a look. “I heard about the jousting practice. Does that have anything to do with why you’re here so late?”

The jousting tournament was coming up. During the most recent practice, Prince Arthur had called attention to the unjust favoring that he was shown. He had insisted, rather publicly, that he should have to earn victory just like any other.

Merlin grinned. “Good instinct.” With a sigh, he ran a hand down his face. “He’s got a plan. He’s going to fake an ‘important mission’ that will take him out of Camelot, and he’ll have to ‘miss the tournament’. But then he’ll sneak back to Camelot, enter as a mysterious nobody, and reveal himself after winning fairly. I can’t imagine it going wrong,” he finished dryly.

Gwen shook her head and chuckled. “There’s a lot to think about, there.” She raised a finger. “An important mission – I’d imagine other knights would be made to accompany him. What will they do, wander while he’s returned to Camelot? Make camp and stay out of sight?”

Merlin hummed. “Oh, yeah.”

“And where is he staying in the citadel, during the tournament? How is he not going to be recognized?” Gwen prodded.

“I never said it was a good plan,” Merlin said. “But it’s the one Arthur’s set on.”

Gwen nibbled on a nut, her eyes focusing on the stone floor. “Well…” She trailed off with a hum.

“What?”

“Maybe it can work.”

Merlin scoffed. “You do need sleep,” he teased.

But Gwen’s eyes were shining, her thoughts rolling like a downhill snowball. “It could work,” she repeated. “Not the way Arthur thinks, but…” Gwen lowered her voice. “Maybe we can make it work for all of us.”