I don't own Merlin.
/
Gwaine knows that this is how it has to be. That he has to be the champion, because Arthur doesn't trust himself not to put Lance at the forefront of battle anymore. Not with Gwen in the picture. Not with his heart broken in a million pieces.
It doesn't mean he likes it.
It doesn't mean that he likes watching Merlin nearly fall apart, fear clouding his eyes as he pushes back, and continues his work, hands still shaking.
They are Arthur's shield and sword- one to protect, one to defend.
Gwaine doesn't like it, but that's how it is.