When Gaius awoke, he looked for Merlin. He had to check the health of the castle, but through it all, he looked for Merlin. Merlin, who was nowhere to be found.
It was not until Gaius finally returned to his chambers that he found him, sitting on the steps that led to his room, knees drawn to his chest.
"Merlin, thank goodness, I was worried about you – Arthur said that you ran off after Morgana disappeared and I've been all over the castle – Merlin?"
Gaius had drawn closer to Merlin during this as he put his things away. Now he could see his young charge's expression.
Merlin was staring straight ahead of himself, his eyes oddly focused as though he was gazing at someone sitting in front of him… but there was no one there.
"Merlin, I'm sure they'll find her…" Gaius began, but the words failed him. Moments passed.
Then, out of the dusty silence, Merlin whispered three words.
"I killed her."
Replies appeared in Gaius's head. Words of comfort, reassurance, disagreement… but just words, useless platitudes that in this moment could mean nothing. Merlin's voice ached with truth. Instead, Gaius carefully sat himself down next to the younger man; and without any words, Merlin leant into him and Gaius put his arms around his shoulders.
Through the near-silent tears, Gaius learnt a little of what had happened. Bit by bit the truth that was eating at Merlin's heart escaped through his lips. Gaius said nothing.
Later, more than an hour later, when the sun had set and they were sitting together eating their evening meal, Gaius looked up at Merlin and finally spoke.
"You did the right thing."