Author's note:

Hi! This is just a random story that I had stuck in my head and wanted to post it. :-) I don't own Merlin or anything you recognise.

OK, this has spoilers for seasons 1-3, and then mentions things from season 4, but it starts going off away from canon from the end of season 3ish

Extended Summary: Merlin's magic was found out, revealed in a battle and everyone discovered it. Arthur, betrayed, sent Merlin away, unable to stand the thought of having him killed, but not able to trust the servant. Years later, Morgana attacks Camelot, taking over and bewitching everyone but Arthur and Leon, who were able to escape the castle and run. Everyone in Camelot now hate the King and his Knight, hunting them down. They stumble into another traveller, feeding them a cover story, but how does she know of them? And who is she taking them to?

Please read and review, I hope you enjoy it.

Chapter 1

"You are being tried for crimes against Camelot, and found guilty for the use of magic and treason. I pass judgement on you and sentence you to banishment, for life. You have until tomorrow sunset to have passed out of Camelot's borders, otherwise you will be hunted and killed."

"Merlin, please, don't go. Arthur will change his mind once he calms down." Gwen pleaded.

"Gwen, it doesn't matter if he will or won't in a week's time, I lied to him, I lied to you, I lied to you all. I accept my punishment as I deserve it."

"You do not deserve being sent from your home for something you were born with."

Merlin hugged the girl, then swung his backpack onto his back. His second pair of clothes, his magic book and the carving from his father was all that was in there. He walked out of the room, to where Gaius handed him a bundle of food in a cloth and a waterskin. "Goodbye Gaius." Merlin forced a grin, and hugged the man.

"Be safe Merlin."

"Look after Arthur." Merlin asked the man, who nodded.

Merlin was out of the castle before the sun rose, but all the Knights were waiting at the gate ready to say goodbye.

"Merlin." Lancelot hugged the boy first.

"Lance, make sure Arthur doesn't let any griffins kill him, yeah?" Merlin joked.

Gwaine hugged the servant next, and whispered his goodbyes. Leon stayed upon his horse. Percival and Elyan said their goodbyes and nodded respectfully.

"Sir Leon," Merlin called, just before he started walking away.

"Yes?" Leon asked curtly.

Merlin dropped his fake smile and forced goofiness and stared at the man piercingly. "Look after the King, review the security of the castle and for god's sake, discipline your guards. They are completely oblivious and incompetent."

Leon visibly bristled at the attack on his men, but didn't say a word.

Merlin turned and walked away. The knights stayed there until he was gone from their view.

TBC

Please read and review