A/N: Wanted to post something before I leave for holiday. The next chapter will be up soon for my other story.

In which Merlin has a go at Uther. Uther has a new found respect for Merlin.

Epidose: The Witchfinder

Uther walked down the corridors, making his way to Gaius's chambers. He kept a neutral expression as he walked, to hide the guilt her felt in the pit of his stomach. On the other side of the hall came the servant, what was her name…ah yes, Merlin! The young maidservant had helped prove Gaius innocent and practically saved Camelot from certain doom. The two stopped when they neared each other. Merlin nodded curtly in respect.

"Good day, sire," she greeted coolly, her voice calm and straight forward. There was no cheerfulness to it. The king curtly nodded back.

"Is Gaius in his chambers, servant?" Uther asked, using his kingly voice. Most servants would cower in fear at the man, knowing he had the power to do anything he pleased, but Merlin stood there with little to no fear in her eyes. In fact, there seemed to be fire, one that burned with hatred. Uther could hardly blame her for hating him.

"Its Merlin, and are you sure it would be wise to see him? He is in fragile health ever since he was freed and I would prefer no one disturb him." They started at each other, almost battling to see who would crack some type of emotion. "Unless you are going to apologize for what you did or it's a matter of life or death, you may as well turn around…"

"I'm going to take that as a yes. You are lucky I don't have you thrown in the stocks for your tongue." With that, he began to make his leave. Merlin could feel anger boiling up inside her. She turned her head around and glared at the man.

"I hope you regret what you've done, sire. I really do," she snapped, gaining his attention. He didn't turn around to look at her, he only listened. "Gaius is my uncle, my family. Not to mention he is your friend. You betrayed his trust all because of your hate for magic. Even if Gaius did use magic, or has magical items, I hardly doubt he would use them against you." She paused for a moment to let her words sink in. "Too many innocent people have died at your hand, Gaius being one of them. I believe that if you actually listened to the truth, things would be a lot more peaceful and fewer sorceresses would want your head." Uther bit his tongue to stop himself from commenting. "What if your son had used magic? Would you kill him? Would you have the guts to kill him?" She asked. "Think about the person you've become, sire…" Merlin glanced turned her head, but not before giving him one last glance. She disappeared down the hallways, having little clue about the new found respect for her.

Uther let her go, this time at least. Next time the girl wouldn't be so lucky.