He Should Have Known
*Chapter 1*
As Arthur headed to his chamber he noticed that something was off. Merlin was nowhere to be found. He hadn't woken Arthur up, causing him to deal with his father since he was late to breakfast, he wasn't there to get him ready, he wasn't at Gaius's, he wasn't in the stocks, and he hadn't shown up to watch Arthur train. So Arthur felt that something was definitely off.
"Gaius I can't tell him you know this." a voice grumbled. Arthur stopped and looked at the door which was only open a crack. He quickly hid near the door so he could hear, but so he wouldn't be questioned by anyone passing by.
"Merlin, I know you can't, but you also can't just leave. I'm sure Arthur will notice." Gaius replied. Arthur cautiously looked around before looking into the room through a crack between the door and the wall. Merlin was standing with his back to the door holding a bag as Gaius stood glaring at the young boy.
"And just what do you want me to say if Arthur asks for you, as I highly doubt he will enjoy hearing you are going on a life threatening journey, especially if you are to go alone?" Gaius questioned as he admitted defeat.
"Tell him my mother is ill, and I am going to be with her till she is well again." Arthur made sure to hold back the laugh that was threatening to spill from his lips. He highly doubted that Gaius would lie for Merlin, even if he was his charge.
"Of course, but for my sake Merlin, please be careful. I do not wish to tell Arthur his manservant has been killed and will not be returning." Gaius pleaded. Merlin scoffed and fixed the bag on his shoulder.
"Arthur probably won't even notice I'm gone." Merlin stated before heading to the door. Arthur backed away from the door and crossed his arms as he leaned against the wall opposite of the door.