AN: Since the network was down at work and the college, you guys get two new chapters!
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Percival's mouth dropped when he heard it, but Merlin did seem to be phased, other than a slight tightening around the eyes. The boy actually seemed to look pleased if anything. But Merlin couldn't be. He was far too kind hearted and innocent. But Merlin just continued what he had been doing.
When the man threatened to tell Arthur and get Merlin thrown out of the Royal household, Percival felt his blood boil. Merlin simply turned and said,
"I can hardly be punished for being born, so fine. Tell him, I have been trying for years to find a way to tell him. I am not afraid of what he will do."
Percival's and the man's mouths fell open. It was true and Merlin didn't care if people knew. A secret like that must be heavy, so heavy that after a while you you no longer care if you keep it. Poor Merlin... To have to live with something like that hanging over his head.
Percival's surprise increased when the man backed off and walked away. He must have been wanting to scare the servant enough to get him to pay to keep it a secret. But when Merlin encouraged him to tell Arthur, the man lost all of the leverage he thought he had.
Once the man was out of sight, Merlin slouched and let his fear show. Merlin had gambled that the man would not follow through, and had won. Percival watched as Merlin slowly collected himself. It was clear now that Merlin was afraid of what Arthur would do if he found out.
Poor Merlin... Percival headed off, thinking of a way to lighten Merlin's secret burden. After all, it was hardly his fault he was born out of wedlock. Surely Arthur would understand.