So, it's my first story, and it's not a happy ending, but I wanted to start at the deep end. Hope you like it!

King of the Weevils.

As Merlin walked towards the block, he remembered many things and many people. That's the thing about having magic- you never forget. Gaius, who had looked after him when he was all alone. Gwen, so sweet and gentle- Merlin hoped Arthur would come to his senses about her. Arthur- the best friend he had ever had, even if neither would admit it.

Arthur could see Gwen's hands shaking. He could see the tears rolling down her cheeks. He wanted to tell Gwen he loved her. He wanted to tell Merlin that he was his friend. Most of all, Arthur wanted to stop his father from killing his faithful companion. Arthur wanted lots of things he couldn't have.

The executioner wasn't smiling- Merlin hadn't expected that. He had always thought that the man enjoyed his work- perhaps he was wrong. It wouldn't be the first time. When his neck touched the wood, Merlin considered the fact that Gaius had never encouraged him to be religious. He began to pray anyway. He had seen enough of the world to know that bad things happened often. He also knew that once in a million, they didn't.

"No. Please, no." Gwen mouthed the words to Arthur, standing high above. Arthur knew that Gwen had already lost too many people she loved.

Uther turned where he stood to see his son in tears- his son, who believed that no man was worth his tears. "Stop this, Father," he whispered. But it was too late. Uther could not make an exception.

Merlin didn't want to die. He didn't want Gaius to be alone. He wanted to help Arthur to fulfil his destiny. But somewhere, deep inside, Merlin knew that Kilgharrah lied. Arthur would manage without him. Arthur would be a great king, and Guinevere would be a magnificent queen. And Merlin had served his purpose.

Requiem æternam dona eis, Domine, et lux perpetua luceat eis.