Chapter 1

Summary: A person from Merlin's past has caught up with him and is hell bent on revenge. Some how Arthur and Gwaine get dragged into it. Will Merlin be able to confront his past to save his future?

Warnings and Spoilers: Rated T because there will be some Merlin whump... sorry. This story is set in between series 3 and 4, so if you haven't seen past series 3 then beware there may be some spoilers.

Copyright: I do not own Merlin (sadly, the end of series 5 would be completely different if I did) I only own Belestard.

Enjoy :)

The day had started well. Not only had Merlin woken up on time, he had also gotten the Prince of Prats his breakfast before Arthur got to the point of throwing too many hard, painful objects at his head. Merlin hummed his usual strange tune as he went about the rather long list of chores Arthur had set him for the day. Even mucking out the stables couldn't dampen his high mood.

As Merlin rounded the corner, he found himself banging straight into the cheerful face of Gwaine (sorry Sir Gwaine to you). "Woah there Merlin. What's got you in such a good mood? Hasn't Princess squandered your spirits yet?" Gwaine laughed as he brushed down his crimson red robes. Merlin grinned. "Nothing can upset me today" He set off down the corridor, past an amused Gwaine and began to hum his little tune again.

Merlin made his way through the market place towards the lower town. He was grinning from ear to ear. Even though the day had no special association, Merlin had decided early on that the day would be good.

Belestard scowled at the smouldering fire. He was waiting. For 10 years he had waited, now, finally, the spell that had bindered him to the retched creature often mistaken for a horse would be lifted. All he had to do was wait until the sun was at it's highest.

The bandits whom he was currently journeying with were still snoring softly, even though it was nearing midday. Belestard twitched in anticipation. He couldn't wait until he was free and could slit their throats.

Finally the time had come.

He smiled as the sun warmed his back. Belestard felt a comfortable tingling sensation down his spine, before gasping, he emerged, naked, from the old mare. An evil grin crept onto his face. Today the one who had trapped him for a decade would pay. Today he would make Merlin suffer for what he had done to him.

Today would be good.