Characters/Pairings: Merlin, OC *Cough* that's so not a medieval name that stemmed off Rachel in my mind, why would you think that? *Cough*
Rating/Warnings: K
Universe: Canon
Word Count: 300
Challenge: Choose the character you love the most, then write a drabble that captures the essence of why they appeal to you so much. If you don't have a definite favorite, please just choose someone you really like from the show.
Merlin was wrestling with a bush, trying to pick some much needed yarrow for Gaius, but the plant would not submit. He stopped struggling, mentally scolding himself for taking this long to just use magic to obtain the stubborn herb, the spell was on the tip of his tongue when a rustling noise issued from behind him. He froze, summoning the rest of his magic to the surface as he straightened, ready to face an enemy. He turned around slowly and was surprised to see a girl, no older than him, run from the dense trees. Her long brown hair held several twigs, big brown eyes radiating fear and her blue dress torn. Merlin started to walk towards to panting girl, but she was quick to back away.
"Don't worry, I'm not going to hurt you," He reassured her, a friendly smile spreading across his face "I'm Merlin."
"R-Rayma." She whispered, still eyeing him suspiciously.
"Are you alright Rayma?" the raven asked, placing a hand carefully on her shoulder.
She eyed it for a moment before replying, "Th-the men who raided our town, I-I got away, b-but they came after me!"
The young warlock pulled Rayma into a hug, allowing her to sob into his shoulder, rubbing her back soothingly.
"It's ok, they can't hurt you now, not while you're with me."
"B-but you don't even know me," she whispered with a small smile, pulling away from him and looking down at her hands, "Why would you want to help me?"
"I know how it feels to be on the run, trying to hide from someone or something with no one there to help, no one to guide you."
"Thank you so much, Merlin." Rayma said, her voice cracking and eyes filling with tears as she embraced the boy once more.