Just a few things i should tell you about this story: It is set after series 2 however there are some changes, these would be that Arthur is much more like his own king now- basically does rule Camelot- Also they have all ready met Gwaine :) Hope that makes sense- enjoy!

A hunt- just what they had all needed. After the raging attacks on Camelot from the dragon, Arthur had just managed to start getting everything cleared up, and it looked like Camelot was on track for a full recovery. It was pain to see his kingdom in such ruin, and at the cost of so many lives he wasn't sure that his guilty conscience could handle it. Still- they had all pulled through. Some better than others, Arthur reminded himself, as his mind flashed back to how Merlin had been these past few days. Happy as normal, but at the same time-not happy. It was a happiness that didn't fill the eyes, and made everything look more painful if to be completely honest.

He had taken only a small company with him on this trip- himself, Merlin, Gwaine and Leon. He was glad for the company, and to finally get away from all his stressed advisors and issues was a good way to clear his head- clear everyone's head. He knew he had been taking his stress out on Merlin which had granted him the silent treatment from the boy; in fact, he hadn't seen him as much as normal. However, from what Gwaine had told him the boy had been working tirelessly for him, and then he had been doing anything he could in the lower town. No wonder Merlin looks exhausted Arthur reflected from his horse.

He did realise that this wasn't the safest time to be wandering outside of Camelot- as soon as word had spread about Camelot being weak there had been repeated signs of Bandits or mercenaries nearer the borders. He would have to remember not to travel to far out; nevertheless he was glad for the space.

Evening came quickly upon the travellers. They stopped near the Hyrulian waterfall in order to have a good supply of resources and some cover.

"What's for supper Merlin?" Gwaine asked hungrily.

"Nothing special I'm afraid Gwaine- the cook was fairly limited on stock so I took what I could within reason. However, this might be something to keep you going." Merlin explained before cheekily handing an apple over to Gwaine

"Aha! My friend you know me well" Gwaine laughed and was content to leave Merlin with the boiling stew as he shared some alone time with his apple.

Leon had unpacked the horses, leaving everyone's bedroll in circles around the fire, and Arthur had just come back from collecting water.

"Just in time" Merlin exclaimed "Food's ready!"

They all tucked in to a hearty stew that night, one of which Arthur was impressed by. Everyone ate nearly two fillings before lying down beneath the stars. A couple of hours later and Arthur was still lying there trying to fall asleep. He just couldn't shake off a feeling… He wasn't sure what it could be. Before he could think any further a movement came from the side of him. He was ready to pounce- before he realised it was only Merlin. Why wasn't he asleep? He had certainly looked exhausted enough. Merlin shifted around the knights and came to sit near the fire with his back to Arthur- his head lowering down to be clutched in his hands- with a slow motion of rubbing his face as though it was some comfort.

With his head in his hands Merlin felt quite calm, he didn't think about his father at all- for fear of being encased in the darkness he could feel. It was better that way, his thoughts would be distracted and he wouldn't have to dwell on such things. He hadn't even known the guy- why should he be upset? He answered his own question there, before cursing himself for thinking of Balinor again. However, Merlin had to be honest- he was feeling better. This hunt hadn't been like normal and having space was a bonus; all over Camelot there were constant reminders of what he let happen, whereas out here it was calm, and it was peaceful, and there was no impending decisions between life and death. At first he hadn't been sure as to how he could go on- not with the amount of people he seemed to be losing, but through viewing Arthur's strength and with a little support from Gaius he had just about got himself back on top. He just wouldn't think too much on anything right now.

Head feeling a lot clearer, he reached for a stick and began poking the fire.

"Merlin" Came a voice from behind him "Would you mind not spewing embers on me?" A smile tugged at Merlin's lips with this comment, turning to face Arthur he sarcastically replied

"OH, I'm so sorry sire, what was I thinking?"

"Probably not a lot knowing you Merlin."

"Better thoughts then you turnip head!" Merlin exclaimed.

"You shouldn't be thinking at all anyway- why aren't you asleep?" Arthur asked.

"Could ask you the same question."

"Touché" Arthur admitted his defeat there before rolling on his back to look at the stars.

"Merlin- do you think Camelot will be okay?" He asked, all sincerity in his voice.

"Of course- you have only been gone a day sire" Merlin joked.

"Very good Merlin… No I meant after this, after the dragon?"

Sensing this to be serious, Merlin took his time to think before answering.

"What happens to us now will only shape us in the future" At Arthur's questioning glance, he expanded "Dragon attacks don't happen often, but one happened to Camelot. That has happened in our past, and now it has shaped us into becoming stronger, and even being immune to it in the future. With each day Camelot grows as a city into something stronger and full of more hope than before. With your leadership, Arthur, I think Camelot is in safe hands."

Both took a minute in silence before Arthur whispered "Thank you Merlin".

With a small smile from both of them, Merlin walked back over to his bedroll and settled down.

"Goodnight sire."

"Goodnight Merlin."