Merlin gave a last look around at his home village. Suddenly the world he was leaving seemed a whole lot more comforting than the one he was moving into. He recalled his last conversation with his mother Hunith. He could see how hard it was for her to let go, but she seemed determined to not let him see any weakness or any tears she must have been feeling. With both her hands on his shoulders she looked him in the eyes, assuring him it was the best thing he could do.
In Camelot he could become someone. Ealdor was so small, people living on top of one another almost. Hunith was so mad that Will had found out about Merlin's magic. She was terrified that someone else would spot Merlin's secret. She had a cruel vision of Merlin being burned alive, lately it had haunted her, and she knew that the time had come for Merlin to make his own way in the world. He had been given his talents for a reason, she hoped that by sending her son to Gaius in Camelot, he would be able to guide her son to use his unique gifts in the correct way. As he continued to walk, Merlin could see his mother's figure reseeding with every step he took. He swallowed back his tears, not daring to wave in case his confidence deserted him. He knew she had made great sacrifices for him, and he owed to her to make the most of his chance at his new home.
He grimly walked on, face set determined to concentrate on his future from this moment on. The shadows of the trees darkened his path, at times, so much so it almost seemed like evening, rather than the middle of the day. Not for the first time he tried to imagine what his future would be, where his destiny would ultimately lead him. So engrossed was he, that when the familiar voice cut into his thoughts he jumped visibly on the spot.
"So you really are going then Merlin?" Will came up to him, his face almost accusing, yet his eyes emotional, hurt almost.
"I have no choice Will, I can't stay here." Merlin shifted uncomfortably wishing now that he'd tried to seek Will out to explain his reasons. Their relationship always so close since boys, had changed since Will found out about Merlin having magic.
"I would never tell anyone of your magic you know that?" Will said as though trying to get a burden out of his mind, yet sounding instead defensive.
"I know that of course Will," Merlin replied "but I cannot stay in Ealdor, I no longer feel I belong here, I feel I just have to follow another path now, one that can't be followed here. I will miss you though Will. It would mean a lot to me, if you could try and understand why I have to go."
As the two of them looked at each other, Will made a decision on the spot, and smiled at his friend.
"You're probably right Merlin, Ealdor is too boringl for a person like you. I will miss you, don't forget me will you?"
Merlin swallowed back emotion, embracing his friend briefly.
"I'll always remember you Will, and I'll be back one day, I promise. Take care, and try and stay out of Old Man Simmon's hair." He laughed.
"I seem to recall it was you who had that problem Merlin." Will laughed back. "Make sure you look after yourself, and never take a step back."
"I won't Will, goodbye." Merlin smiled, quickly turning round as he felt emotion, briefly threatening to overcome him.
As he began to walk away, a sudden new positive feeling began to take him over. Realising that the last hurdle had been overcome, he started to embrace the journey he was now on. From this day forward, he would find where his true destiny lay, and for the first time, he could feel an excitement overcome the fears. Camelot here I come.