Secrets

by V-L-G-4200

Merlin is a woman although she has been brought up pretending to be male. Her magic and gender discovered in her village home Ealdor, Hunith sends Merlin to Camelot and to the destiny awaiting her.

3. The Mark of Nimueh

Disclaimer: I don't own BBC's Merlin or any of the characters or places mentioned within this FanFiction.

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Chapter 3: The Mark of Nimueh

Life in Camelot is taking a while for me to get used to. It is a lot bigger, busier and potentially dangerous than Ealdor. I miss home terribly, well I miss my mother terribly but I will write to her as often as I can. I don't have a lot of time to myself, but I like it. I like helping Gaius; I don't think I make much difference but I am eager to learn, I also enjoy working for Arthur but don't expect me to tell him that any time soon.

I'm unsure as to why I enjoy working for the prince, the words Gaius whispered to me at the feast the other night run through my head. 'You're quite taken with him aren't you?' 'You like him.' Gaius' voice mocks in my head causing a burning sensation in my checks. I glanced over at Gaius as we walked through the lower town, we'd been informed of a body a few streets down and Gaius needed to investigate.

The hustle and bustle of the people in the city prevented us from moving quickly. Gaius had also informed me that running causes panic, which would only slow our journey further. Finally we arrived at the area where the dead man lay, his face down on the dusty road, arms above his head a slight blue colour to tainting the visible skin.

I watched as Gaius knelt beside the man and began his investigation. "Aren't you scared?" I asked fearfully as I continued to watch from a distance.

"Of what?" Gaius questioned glancing my way.

"That you might catch whatever it is." I stated shaking my head slightly, this was a fear I was beginning to learn came with the job of physician. However I could not understand how Gaius conquered the fear.

Gaius rose to rest on his knees, glaring at me in an un-nerving way. "I'm the court physician, Merlin. This is part of my job." He answered, I inched a little closer crouching down with my arms upon my knees. I didn't want to touch the body, looking at Gaius briefly I realised I may have to. "Most of the time there's nothing really to be scared of." Gaius continued as he rolled the man towards me.

I inched back half a step as the body grew closer. The man's skin was unlike anything I'd ever seen. A pale blue colour of death almost glowed with dark blue lines snaking through the corpse's face. The overall effect looked almost like the man had water swimming under his skin.

I glanced at Gaius to see his panicked face already looking in my direction. A nervous twitch pulled Gaius' mouth as he looked back at the dead man before us. "You were saying?" I asked quietly.

Gaius looked around, noticing people heading towards us slowly. "People mustn't see this. They will panic." He stated, springing to my feet I grabbed the cover that was hanging nearby. I made a mental note to repay the owner of the cover later, however I needed to cover this body. I knelt back down as Gaius helped me cover the man, ensuring his face was properly covered.

Boots scrapped nearby, looking up I watched as a couple walked past. There curious eyes scanning the cover between me and Gaius briefly. I sighed, relieved that we'd managed to cover the body in time.

Gaius guarded the covered body as I retrieved a cart. The cart I found had some other items loaded upon it and they had to be shifter to the side to allow room for the corpse. We lifted him together carefully wrapping the cover around his back to cover any visible skin. The street was empty as we finally got the body fully onto the cart, the feet struck over the edge we would be carrying. I made a mental note to block the shoes from view should any of the citizens stop to talk to us. They sometimes did, the people seemed to find comfort in the friendly nature of Gaius; not realising he had duties to attend, I realised it was important to have this connection with the people.

I smiled slightly to myself as a man slightly older than me asked us if we needed a hand with the heavy load. Gaius reassured him that I was help enough and we continued to cart our way back towards the castle.

The wheels rattled across the small wooden bridge as we entered the courtyard. "What are you doing?" A familiar voice called.

Turning I noticed Gwen quickly closing the distance towards us, I ran around to block the cart's contents from view. "Er… just moving something." I answered quickly ensuring the body was fully covered, briefly sharing a concerned look with Gaius.

"Looks heavy." Gwen stated in concern.

I waved off her concern, attempting to reassure her "Earm, it's nothing really." Happy that the body was covered I finally fully looked at Gwen noticing that she was holding some flowers. "Erm… did someone give you flowers?" I enquired gesturing towards them.

"Oh!" Gwen replied shrugging the flowers up, a flustered look upon her face. "No." She stated as her head shook. She giggled slightly before holding the small bouquet towards me slightly. "Would you like one?" she asked, I shrugged almost hearing Gaius telling me to hurry up in my head. "A purple one. Purple suits you." She informed as she handed a small purple flower to me. I pushed back a blush. Gwen caught me before I managed to turn to leave. "Not that I'm saying red doesn't suit you." She added emphasising the word 'red' and 'doesn't'.

I could not prevent the smile that creped onto my face. "Thanks. Well, er…" I started looking around for somewhere to place my flower upon myself so I could continue with my work. Smiling I tucked the flower into my neckerchief, I heard Gwen quietly gasp. "Er…see you." I finished taking hold of the cart behind me.

Gwen nodded understanding that I needed to get on. "Bye." She dismissed, I turned catching Gaius' disapproving look as I pushed the cart from the back through the rest of the gate. I glanced back at Gwen nodding slightly watching as she waved before returning to the task at hand.

Getting the body to the lab was a little more challenging that getting it onto the cart. Gaius decided it would be best if we each took a sack into the room first. After we did so we carefully carried the body to the lab between us. Gaius was careful to maintain a bit of slack so the body slumped like a heavy sack would. Every step of the way we looked to either side ensuring people weren't in the way or looking too carefully at what we carried.

We managed to get the body safely into the lab, untucking the cover from our hands and dropping it onto the floor we placed the corpse onto an empty table. Gaius quickly began his closer examination, the fear and uncertainty still shinning in his eyes. I stood to the side of the corpse my eyes running over the man before me, sadness overcame me as I began to picture the life this man may have left behind.

"I've never seen anything like this before." Gaius stated drawing my attention back to him. He had his magnifying glass examining the blue vein like lines upon the face of the man.

"Do you think it could be some kind of plague?" I questioned in a concerned tone.

"No. I fear that something like this could never come from nature." Gaius answered. He straightened to look at me as he asked. "But who has this kind of power?"

A chill swept over me as I realised what he was implying. I gulped as I feared I already knew the answer to. "You think it's caused by magic?" A bang echoed through the room drawing my attention to the door.

"Merlin!" A very annoyed voice shouted. I raced to the door as I realised it was Arthur.

I opened the door, placing my right hand on the door frame to prevent Arthur entering the room. I smiled as I said. "Erm… I'm on my way. Sorry I'm late." Arthur shifted from foot to foot, clearly irritated that I was denying him access to the room.

I quickly swept my eyes over his frame, my breathing caught slightly upon seeing what he was wearing. A red shirt hung over onto his brown trousers with a belt around his middle as normal, however the dark brown long coat he was wearing over his shirt was something I had not seen before. It made the prince seem more timid, more approachable. His golden hair was messily swept to the side and his shirt fastener left unfastened. I gulped slightly tearing my eyes away from the sight up to Arthur's annoyed face.

"Don't worry. I'm getting used to it." He stated in a monotone, his eyes sweeping over my frame. I noticed a frown fix onto Arthur's face, panic swelled as I momentarily wondered if I'd fastened my restricting bandages tight enough. I frowned slightly as I mentally shook my head, knowing I'd tightened then almost too well as I was having a little trouble drawing deep breaths. I looked down not knowing what he was scowling at.

My eyes locked upon my purple flower still safely tucked into my neckerchief. I looked back at Arthur gulping down my nerved. My right hand leaving the door frame to take the flower and hold it in front of Arthur as I timidly informed. "Oh, er… Gwen, she gave it to me."

"Tell Gaius my father wants to see him now." Arthur demanded looking annoyed. He walked away from the door the instant he had completed his demand.

"Okay." I whispered to the corridor, I quickly glanced down it, quickly spotting Arthur's retreating figure. I closed the door as I turned to face Gaius. "Gaius…" I started.

"I heard." He interrupted.

"Wait, why couldn't he just tell you himself?" I asked irritated as I walked back into the room.

"Because that's the way it is. You're a servant." Gaius informed casting me a look that willed me to understand.

I turned from the position I reached, pacing slightly as I counted in an irritated tone. "Wha… if he knew who I was, what I've done…"

Gaius looked at me with a sadness in his eyes. "You'd be a dead servant." He informed. I looked at him and noticed the seriousness upon his face. Gaius looked down again at the corpse. "Right, get this covered up." He demanded gesturing the man upon the table.

"Hey, I'm not your servant." I whined.

"No, you're my dogsbody. Come on, hurry up." Gaius stated a small smile creeping onto his face. I quickly grabbed the cover we had borrowed off the floor and fluttered it over the body. Tucking the edges of my side in slightly I watched Gaius doing the same on the other side, a nervous smirk pulling at his lips.

Before we headed out to see the king I quickly filled an empty vial with water, placed my flower within it and placed the makeshift vase on the side table in my room. We then rushed to see what the king had summoned Gaius for. We quickly arrived at the great hall, my attention was immediately grabbed by the man lying face up. His left hand rested upon his chest, the blue watery skin almost shining from the body.

Gaius knelt down and began his examination. Uther paced slightly, a concerned look twisting his features. I stood a distance away again not wanting to get in Gaius' way. "What's happened to him?" Uther enquired bending slightly towards Gaius as he spoke.

"I don't know, Sire. It's the second case I've seen today." Gaius replied glancing at the king.

Panic flared within Uther's eyes, with a shaking voice he asked. "Why didn't you report it to me?"

"I was attempting to find the cause." Gaius answered as he stood up a scared tone lacing his words. I stared at the body before us wondering how we'd cure a likely magical disease. My heart beat loudly against my chest as I found myself wondering if I'd be able to help or not.

"What did you conclude?" Uther demanded, his eyes seemed to almost beg for an answer

"I don't think it's time to hurry to conclusions." Gaius quickly answered, I scowled at the body at the tone of uncertainty and confusion I could hear. "The scientific process is a long one." Gaius concluded.

Slowly I looked up, horror dulled the king's eyes, and he looked as if he was restraining himself from shaking. The fear and nervousness was so clear in the king's features I was almost surprised it hadn't manifested itself into a physical form. Uther gulped, looking a little like he was restraining himself, his eyes glared at Gaius as he took a step forward, coldly asking. "What are you concealing from me?"

Gaius shifted slightly seeming to not announce what he had deduced so far. With a slight sigh he revealed. "Sire, I have seen nothing like it. The victims are dying in 24 hours, and it's spreading fast."

"What is the cause?" Uther asked slowly emphasising each word separately.

"I think you should say that the cause, the most likely cause, is sorcery." Gaius announced dragging out his reveal, likely not wanting to say the word 'sorcery' in front of Uther.

Horror clearly flashed across the king's face, the room was eerily quite as Uther recovered from the invisible blow 'sorcery' had dealt him. Uther turned slightly his gaze locking upon the corpse. Arthur shifted and began walking between the body and Uther. Uther's right hand connected with Arthur's left shoulder preventing him from moving further away. "We must find who did this." Uther spoke quietly to Arthur pushing him to the side of the hall.

"I will, father." I heard Arthur proclaim.

Uther spoke quietly to Arthur instructing him what he needed to do. "Conduct door to door searches. Increase your presence in the town." I glanced at Gaius and we both knelt down to take care of the body as Uther continued his instructions in a quiet voice. "Double the guards on all the gates. And lend the physician your servant."

"Merlin? But…" Arthur began.

"I'm going to need Gaius to find a cure. He needs all the help we can give him. If Gaius is right, believe me, this city will be wiped out." Uther interrupted, his words trailing quickly making him slightly breathless. "This is the kind of magic that undermines your authority, challenges all we've done. If we cannot control this plague, people will turn to magic for a cure." Uther paused. "We have to find this sorcerer, and quickly." I could barely make out Uther's words, I forced my magic to louden the whispered words in my ears so I could fully understand what was going on.

"Yes, father." Arthur submitted.

We followed a distance after Arthur as he made his way into the lower town, along the way a small entourage of guards began to accompany him. Gaius and I watch from a nearby stall as Arthur began questioning the citizens. The people were scared, the guards and the prince asking questions were terrifying to these people. As we watched Arthur turned from a man he was questioning and he and two guards entered a house, one of the guards nearly taking the door down.

A tug on my left arm pulled me away from the commotion, I looked at Gaius about to ask why. When our eyes met I realised this wasn't the time to ask questions, Gaius was worried and anxious to get back to work. As we walked through the town I noticed the watery skin glowing from a man who was hunched against a wooden pillar, the man was holding his stomach clearly uncomfortable.

"Gaius?" I stated as I moved closer to the infected man, the man clearly heard me and held his arm out in a pleading manor towards Gaius. "Gaius. He's still alive." I informed, the man was struggling to gather a breath, somewhere in the back of my mind I realised this man did not have long left.

I chocked back a sob at the pained expression that crossed the man's face as Gaius stated in a professional manor. "I'm afraid there's nothing we can do for him."

I looked up towards Gaius, tears pooling in my eyes as I wondered how Gaius could be so cold to this man that needed our help. My voice cracking with my want to help as I scolded. "But we haven't tried."

"If we don't know what the disease is, then how can we cure him?" Gaius questioned his eyes almost begging me to give up on this man before me.

My emotions swirled magic tingling through me as I answered. "With magic." I know we can't but my heart and mind begged me to help the people I could see suffering from this disease.

Anger filled Gaius' glare as he scolded. "Have a look." I found myself dragged up via my left arm, standing next to the pillar the man leaned against. Gaius pointed to the guards and prince who were questioning everyone and examining everyone's houses. "They're suspicious of everyone. This is not the time to be using magic." He explained as his arm linked with mine and he pulled me from the man. The man looked sad but understanding, gasping for breath as we drew further away. "Science will lead us to the source of the disease." Gaius concluded drawing my attention back to him.

He continued to pull me, his hand digging threateningly tight around my arm. That was until we reached the lab where we would hopefully develop a cure. He tossed me into the room, barring my exit. Gaius held his arm in front of him, asking that I wait and hear him out. "Merlin, I know you want to help. But you can't, you have far more to lose than anyone else. Do you wish your secrets to be revealed? Because they will be!" Gaius sighed. "If you want to help, help me create a scientific remedy to this disease. Please, Merlin?" Gaius begged, his eyes meeting with mine. Tears gleamed in their corners from a horror he was imagining. Knowing I could not resist him I nodded.

Knowing we would be located within the lab for a while I decided to remove my coat, bag, neckerchief and restraining bandages. I left the items in my room, tucked into my hiding place. A lifetime of hiding my gender has made me very nervous about leaving any identifiers lying around. Whilst my wooden plank was removed I scooped up my magic book. I quickly leafed through the pages, looking for anything that may help.

"Merlin." Gaius called, I pushed the book slightly under the bed as I rushed to my feet. I barged through the door, worry making adrenaline pound through my veins. My magic mixing and heightening my senses even further, searching frantically for any threat to my guardian.

Taking in the seen before me I gulped in a breath, everything was fine. I sighed, my breathing ragged from the emotional worry. Gaius looked a little concerned but continued with whatever he was doing under a blanket covering a body. I walked towards the table, my hands pulled behind my back. Knowing I'd be of more help if I didn't touch anything.

Gaius pulled a flask containing some fluid out from behind the blanket. "What are you doing?" I asked curiously as Gaius walked towards the other table that contained all his ingredients and apparatus.

"I'm examining the contents of that man's stomach." Gaius informed gesturing the blanket covered body with a turn of his head, as he swirled the stomach flask over a flame.

"Will that tell you who did it?" I questioned as Gaius brought a red filled small flask to the stomach filled flask.

"No, but it may tell us how it's spread. One thing I do know, this is magic of the darkest kind." Gaius informed, glancing at me to drive his point home as he revealed what he knew.

I scoffed slightly. "Why would someone use magic like that?" I inquired shaking my head slightly.

Gaius placed the red flask down stating. "Magic corrupts. People use it for their own ends." He then proceeded to return to swirling the flask above the flame.

"But not all magic is bad. I know it isn't." I informed a frown knitting across my brow.

"It's neither good nor bad. It's how you use it." Gaius contradicted, a stomping sound growing closer and closer as he spoke.

The main door swung open, a few guards barged in swiftly followed by Arthur. My pulse raced as I quickly slouched my position, allowing the fabric to hang loosely over my frame. I flashed Gaius a worried glance as Arthur shouted orders to the guards accompanying him. "Over there." Arthur looked around his gaze locking briefly with Gaius. "Sorry Gaius, we're searching every room in town." Arthur apologised in an almost monotone.

"What for?" Gaius inquired.

"A sorcerer." Arthur informed walking towards us. As Arthur drew closer my heart rate increased, panic mixed with an unknown emotion as I felt my mouth fall open slightly.

Arthur stopped just in front of us forcing me to spin on the spot to keep an eye on where he was. "But why would he be here?" Gaius questioned as the guards began looking through the things within Gaius' lab.

Arthur shrugged slightly and informed with a slight sigh. "I'm just doing my job."

I shot Gaius a concerned look as Gaius told Arthur. "We've nothing to hide. Go on, then. Search."

The guards who had not stopped their search during the discussion riffled through Gaius' things, looking for evidence of anything magical, I hoped Gaius had none. Arthur motioned to the stack of medical books he had found upon a side desk and asked with a confused expression. "All these books and papers?"

Confident Gaius walked towards Arthur I followed half a step behind; quite wary to keep my slouched appearance, as he stated. "My life's work, dedicated to the understanding of science. You are quite welcome to read through them if you wish."

Fear flashed in Arthur's eyes as he quickly looked for another area to focus his search. He was now facing my room, my pulse raced as he inquired. "What's this room up here?"

"Er, it's mine." I answered swallowing down the fear that threatened to choke me.

"And what do you expect to find in there?" Gaius asked folding his arms in front of him in an irritated manor.

Arthur who had looked back at us as Gaius asked his question gazed lazily back towards my room stating. "I'm looking for material or evidence suggesting the use of enchantments." My heart pounded, heightening the sound of Arthur's boot fall as he entered my room, I felt a thickness stick in my throat. I felt like I would choke.

Out of the corner of my eye I noticed Gaius lean towards me slightly, moving my head I glance at the floor as Gaius whispers. "What've you done with the magic book I gave you?" My head snaps back to too it's previous position as I stare wide eyed at my door, my heart racing as I recall my last actions with the book.

The door creaks as Arthur enters my room, with fear racing through me I look at Gaius one more, willing him with a look to realise I'm in danger. Gaius seems to get the message as he fidgets slightly as Arthur softly calls from my room. "Merlin, come here." I look back towards my room door, my mouth moving but my voice sticking to my throat as Arthur continues. "Look what I found." My heart threatening to pound out of my chest I slowly walk up the few steps and enter my room, Arthur is not where I expect him to be. My gaze locks in the magic book briefly before I realise Arthur is standing to the side, in front of my cupboard with the small door open. "I found a place where you can put things. It's called a cupboard." Arthur informs me then proceeds to glance briefly at me as he closes the cupboard door.

A hiss of a laugh escapes me as my heart rate returns almost back to normal, I feel strange, like I can't calm down. I know that I'm nervous about Arthur discovering my secrets but I have a strange feeling that is not the reason behind my slightly heightened heart-rate. I watch Arthur for a moment as he begins picking through my things, then realising I need to hide the book, my eyes seek its location again briefly passing it before I lock onto its position. Quickly glancing back at Arthur I notice he is getting closer to the bed, the book lays just to the other side of where he will soon be. Returning my gaze upon to the book once more, I notice a shirt laying upon the bed, my magic races out; tingling my eyes as always, it grasps my shirt and pulls it down off the bed and successfully covering the book. Now content to watch Arthur I notice as he places down some of my items, he notices my bed, the space underneath it to be more precise. In a heart fluttering movement his arms sweep between his back and his coat, lifting the material away as he kneels down by the side of my bed. My heart hammers in my chest again as I steal a glance at the book on the other side of the bed, checking that it's covered as Arthur looks under my bed, I watch his form; unable to see his face. He doesn't spend long looking under my bed until he pushed himself off the floor and gives my room another quick look over with his eyes, clearly checking for areas he may have missed. He seems content that there is nothing he has missed, making brief eye contact with me he begins to slowly walk out. My eyes fix on my shirt covered book as he passes me back into Gaius' lab.

Mentally sighing I follow a few steps behind him stopping near Gaius as Arthur parades into the centre of the room. He seems to notice the blanket covered body in front of him before he turns, hands on hips and looks hopefully at Gaius. "How long do you think it may be before you find a cure?" He asks a nervous undertone possessing his regal voice.

"It depends on how many interruptions I get." Gaius coldly answered a stony expression masking his features.

Arthur nodded slightly as he looked down to the floor by his side. "Of course, I'm sorry." He apologised, taking one last fleeting look at everything in the lab he dismissed the guards as he stated. "We're finished here."

Arthur weaved his way through the rest of the lab the guards following behind him as he exited, I followed Gaius a few steps into the room as he crossed the room to close the door behind the guards. No sooner had the door slammed than Gaius was walking back towards me a concerned look gleaming in his eye. I smiled slightly taking half a step back as relief flooded through me. "We have to hide that book." Gaius demanded.

Gaius came to a stop just the other side of the table in front of me, I leaned towards him. A smirk stretching my lips as I contradicted. "No. We must use it."

"Don't be stupid." Gaius immediately countered as he pulled back slightly.

"If I have this legacy then what is it for?" I questioned in a whispering tone as I leaned against the table tapping it to emphasise words. "You keep telling me it's not for playing tricks." My voice rising as my passion flared, knowing I could help, wanting to do what I could to help.

"You want to practice magic when the King is hunting for sorcerers? Are you mad?" Gaius scolded in a quiet voice. I took a step back as Gaius continued as he walked away to continue his research. "Merlin, your life is destined for more important things."

Anger boiled under my skin, my arms raising to press momentarily against my head before flopping back to my side. I turned away trying to contain the anger as I asked the question I've been asking myself for a while. "But if I don't practice, then how will I get to be this great warlock?!"

Gaius pointed a wooden spoon at me in his right hand that he had picked up without me noticing as he informed. "There will come a time when your skills will be recognised."

I scoffed turning around in a slow circle as I giggled slightly. "When?! How long do I have to wait?" I questioned glancing back at Gaius.

"Patience is a virtue, Merlin." Gaius spat, annoyance evident in his tone.

I scoffed again. "Sitting by and doing nothing, that's a virtue?" I questioned disbelievingly.

The spoon lifted once more, paused slightly until it was bounced slightly at every word Gaius coldly stated. "Your time will come."

I placed my hands on the table, anger fuelling my spite filled words. "I could cure that man we saw."

Gaius nodded slightly as he looked down at the desk, his words trying to comfort me only fanned the flames of my anger. "I know it's tempting to use the way you find easiest, Merlin…" Gaius soothed as he placed his hands upon the table also and slowly his eyes locked with mine.

"It is when it would save a life." I countered.

"It's no good just saving one person. We have to discover how this illness is spreading." Gaius informed his voice rising as his anger flared.

My left pointer finger emphasised my words as I almost shouted. "Arthur is out there right now looking for the sorcerer!"

Gaius pushed himself off the table, his voice raising more as he contradicted. "A sorcerer who's powerful enough to do this will never be found searching the town."

I sighed slightly as I pushed myself slowly off the table, my once hot anger now cold as ice with the thought of not being able to help. "So what can we do?" I asked.

Gaius returned to collecting items from the table between, stealing glances at me as he answered. "Hope that science can find the answer before it kills us all."

The days dragged on seemingly without end as Gaius examined the bodies that were now scattered in the courtyard in lines. All of them were covered with sheets as an offer of respect but Uther wanted Gaius' reassurance that these bodies could be dealt with in the usual manor.

At some point during the day, I'm not entirely sure when; time had become irrelevant along the way, they brought another body to us. Gaius had requested it, I'm not sure why, I'd slept very little with lately. Pushing my body to the limit in hopes that I could help Gaius find an answer to this sickness that was claiming so many lives.

We moved onto examining this body I half hoped a newer corpse would provide more answers. "What's different about this victim?" Gaius questioned.

Looking at the body I wondered to myself. I ran through the information I could see and tried to remember bits that the guards had mumbled. "Er… she's a woman." I muttered as I looked at Gaius, wondering if that was the type of difference Gaius was meaning.

Gaius stared at the body, a tick of annoyance showing in is face as he sarcastically stated. "Sometimes I do wonder whether you're magical talents were given to the right person." As he spoke he turned to face me, his eyes shining with disapproval that I did not answer as he wished me to. I faced the woman again and searched, my eyes raking over her form for clues. "Anything else?" Gaius questioned slightly coldly.

"Erm… she's a courtier." I stated as I realised.

"Ah." Gaius exclaimed causing me to look up at him.

Shifting slightly to face him, an eyebrow furrowed as confusion over came me. "How does that help us?" I asked.

"Courtiers seldom go down to the lower town. So what does that mean?" Gaius informed his right hand hovering in the air between us seemingly twitching at certain words.

I was confused, I still did not really know how things worked here, and something always seemed to catch me off guard. Looking at the courtier's body I thought out loud. "Erm… that, that she hasn't spoken to any townspeople."

A pained look crossed Gaius' face, clearly he was not pleased with my answer. His words dragged out as he agreed. "Yes, it suggests that the disease is not spread by contact."

"Oh, and they probably ate different food." I added my hand lifting into the air in semi defeat. My mind was not working at its full potential at all, the room seemed foggy the heaviness of my eye lids was something that would not be ignored for another night.

"Good. Anything else?" Gaius encouraged waving his hand that still hung in the air towards him then back towards me. I guessed the gesture was supposed to help emphasise the encouragement.

I shook my head hoping to rid my head of some of the clouds that fogged it. "Erm… I doubt they breathe the same air." I speculated.

A grin began to spread across Gaius' face as he encouraged more, his hand continuing his strange wave, eyes gleaming with hope. "So what's the only thing they do share?" He quizzed.

I stuttered around my answer looking towards the balcony as I thought. "Water." I answered in doubt, looking back at Gaius his grin could not be contained as he silently cheered. "Water? You think the disease is spread through water?" I asked as I fought the grin off my face as I realised I'd finally managed to catch up to where Gaius' speculation was.

Gaius pushed himself from the table. His gaze locked with mine, his voice calm and collected as he proclaimed. "Merlin, you're a prodigy." He walked away from the desk, my head followed after him. I watched as Gaius bent and picked up a nearby bucket then turned and held it towards me. I pushed myself away from the table, retrieving the bucket and immediately exited to go retrieve a sample of the lower town water.

Wasting no time, I walked as fast as my legs would carry me to the lower town water pump. When I arrived I was pleased to see that no one was using the pump. Placing the bucket in the stone basin under the pipe I began to pump for the water that Gaius needed. I peered into the bucket from my standing point, my left hand holding the bucket steady as my right operated the pump.

A door slammed behind me and someone's whimpering voice drew closer. I looked at the source of the whimpering and was astonished to see Gwen. She was running, her cloak and dress gathered in her hands so that they would not hinder her. Tears streamed down her face as she ran. "Gwen?" I called, wanting to comfort the other servant I had begun to see as practically a sister. She did not hear me, or if she did her distress prevented her from stopping, not even as she passed me. "Gwen!" I called again, I picked the bucket up and ran after her. I did not want to catch her, just know where she was going. I wanted, no needed to know she wasn't in any trouble or danger.

I continued to follow Gwen as she blazed through the grounds, she did not allow herself to slow, I did not allow myself to lose sight of her. We ran up the stairs and Gwen barged into Gaius' lab Knowing where she was I relaxed slightly. Colliding with the door I managed to bring myself to a stop. Gaius stood in front of Gwen a table of his medical equipment separating them.

"You have the sickness?" I heard Gaius ask, he'd entered physician mode and needed to deal with the possible issue at hand.

"My father! Please, Gaius, he's all I have." Gwen begged, she rocked from foot to foot gasping for breath through her broken words.

Gaius shock his head slowly and calmly he informed. "Gwen, I have no cure."

"I am begging you!" Gwen cried her voice raising as did her hysteria.

I slowly stepped into the room, Gaius seemed to be mentally scolding himself, he held a small vile of an experiment. Tears glistened at the edge of his eyes as he softly explained. "I wish there was something, anything, but so far the remedy is beyond what I can achieve." Gaius grasped Gwen's hand as she cried. "I'm sorry, Gwen." He apologised.

She continued to shake her head, not wanting to listen to the words. Likely shaking them from her mind, a few soul wrenching sops escaped her as she ripped her hand from Gaius' grasp and barrelled out of the door.

I watched Gwen's exit before manoeuvring towards Gaius; bucket still in hand. "There must be something we can do." I demanded.

"My best." Gaius replied. Taking the bucket from me, he continued. "Let's hope that this can provide some answers."

Gaius walked towards the table with the bucket of water I had collected. "But that'll be too late for Gwen's father." I stated angrily. I was angry, angry that we could do nothing to save Gwen's father.

Gaius having finally reached the table and placed the bucket safety upon it sighed slightly. "I fear you may be right." He picked up an empty vial and dunked it into the water, letting the liquid flow into the container.

I knew what I wanted to do, I stormed into my room. Flipping the loose floorboard I retrieved my book of magic, I began scanning through the spell I had noticed before. I would memorise it and head out. I just hoped I wasn't too late.

Part of me realised the risk, I waited until the moon was high in the sky and Gaius was snoring the night away. I tiptoed out of my room, through Gaius' lab and out into the night. During my time memorising my restraining bandages had become uncomfortable so I had removed them, and changed my shirt to one of my thicker ones. The nights were cold here, even with the thickness of my shirt, the warmth of my coat and the comfort of two pairs of socks.

I raced through the lower city as quickly as I dared, my magic heightening my senses. My head darting all around ensuring I would not be seen. I was nearly there, the smell of metal, leather and smoke guiding me. My heightened hearing was captured by the crunching of boots. Panicked I stopped and swiftly looked around.

"What about over… in there?" A guard muttered.

"Certainly, sir." Another replied.

Pressing myself into the shadows of the wall I had pressed myself against I held my breath as the crunching and muttering of the guards walked past, their eyes not straying towards me. A guard moved towards the house in front of me, I quickly changed my position to the back of the house. The footsteps drawing closer I glanced to the side slightly, the guard showed no sign of stopping. Looking down I remembered my decision to relieve myself of my bandages, I could not afford to be caught now. My heart rate beat loudly within my ears, the crunching of the guard's boots made all the clearer in my freighted state. I noticed a door in the wall I had previously hidden against. I did not know where it lead, but I was desperate. I quietly sighed as I mentally prepared myself.

"Onstyrian, onbregdan." I chanted quietly as my magic rushed forward, opening the door. The guard had just passed the door, he did not see it open. The creak of the wood closing caught his attention though. I watched as the guard whipped around, the door still closing slowly. Inch by inch he closed the gap between himself and the door, finally he was in place. My magic swirled in a happy manor as the door opened again, knocking the guard of his feet. My lips twitched as I held in a chuckle at the sight of a guard knocked to the floor holding his head by magic, whilst he was looking for a sorcerer no less.

Knowing this was my only chance I pushed myself away from the house, sneaked past the injured guard; ensuring I stuck to the shadows of the walls and once again walked towards the smell of the blacksmiths. I found the house, the smell of the trade leaked from every part of the house. Finding a bared window I gazed inside. A man laid upon the bed, securely tucked into the thick blankets covering him. Moving my head around slightly to get a better look I noticed Gwen curled up by the side of the man's bed, her head resting against his arm in a touching scene.

I creaked open the door that lead into the room, focusing only upon Gwen's father I moved slowly through the room, my foot snagged something dragging it across the floor. I winced, my body locking into a slightly hunched position as Gwen moved, my breath caught until I realised she was still asleep.

Reaching into my coat I unveiled a small hanky wrapped tightly around some herbs and plants the magic book had instructed me to make. The magic would work without them but without the poultice the disease may return, stronger than before. I could not take that chance, not with Gwen's father. I had managed to sneak away from Gaius during the day to retrieve all the ingredients I needed. No one asked any questions, they were quite normal ingredients for creating a poultice for health. The tricky part had been drawing the symbols of magic onto the hanky, I'd found a pin and had slowly applied the marks using candle wax. It was not the best agent for magic symbols but the book hadn't stated that wax couldn't be used.

Tucking the poultice slowly under Gwen's father's pillow, I backed off back toward the door. I chanted the spell I had memorised during the day whilst ensuring that Gwen's father was fixed in my gaze. "Þu fornimst adl fram guman." The magic almost burned at the intensity of the spell as it rushed to do my bidding. Still backing away I watched in awe as the poultice began to glow with a greenish yellow hue, the glow seeped through the pillow and into Gwen's father. There the glow was absorbed by his skin and smiling slightly to myself I passed back through the door into the night.

I had to know if what I had done had worked, I stood in the window gazing in watching. Waiting. Finally Gwen's father moved his hand that was not hindered by his daughter rose slowly. He seemed to be ready to flinch from pain but his head movement showed there was none. He laid a moment breathing deeply, then looking at his daughter he stroked her hair in a comforting way. Gwen moved her head towards the petting then all at once she turned to face her father.

"Father?" Gwen's astonished voice whispered.

"Gwen." He replied in a tired voice.

Gwen spun around moving herself closer to her father. "What's happened?" She questioned disbelievingly as she grasped him whilst he sat up slightly. "I can't believe it!" Gwen cried. I could not keep the smile from stretching across my face as I watched them embrace each other in a loving hug.

If I had not been terrified of being found outside now I would have skipped back to my room. As I was I managed to restrain myself until I finally was encased within my room. I hit the air with my fist as my grin cracked my lips, this was the only celebration I allowed myself. Content I kicked off my shoes and both pairs of socks, stripping myself of my coat and bounded into bed. Happiness bubbling even as my breathing eventually evened out and sleep overwhelmed me.

A new day dawned and the bodies in the courtyard increased once more. Whispers were echoing around the castle, people wondering who would go next. None of that bothered me, or at least I tried to not allow it to bother me. The number if dead did bother me more than I was willing to accept. I found a moment in which I could speak to Gwen, Gaius had gone to take his finding so far to Uther and Arthur, I was tempted to tag along but more than anything I needed to ask Gwen a few questions.

Opening the door to Morgan's chambers I noticed Gwen in the process of picking items to be washed. She hummed a tune as she worked, it was very clear that she was happy but I had to know. "How's your father?" I questioned from the doorway, I held the door-frame and leaned inwards the smile spreading across my face as Gwen turned to face me. "Is he feeling better?" I continued.

Gwen smiled, taking small steps towards me. "Yeah, it's incredible. It's a miracle." She stated in relief.

Relief washed through me as I registered her relieved tone. "His skin's clear, back to normal?" I asked.

"Yes." Gwen replied nodding as she smiled.

My grin widened knowing that I'd managed to help her father, content I began to leave as I stated. "Great!"

"You don't seem surprised." Gwen's voice called stopping me from my retreat.

Moving back through the door I realised my mistake and quickly assured her. "No, no I am." I contradicted stepping through the doorway I continued. "It's a miracle."

A confused look overcame Gwen, her head tilting to the side. "But how did you know he was well?" She quizzed as she stepped towards me, I retreated half a step my pulse racing as I heard the door creak to a close behind me.

The door finally completed its journey the handle thumping into place, I looked at it briefly, cursing it for cutting out my exit. Turning back to face Gwen I noticed she would not be happy unless I provided some kind of answer. "Er… because you're smiling." I replied, I smiled slightly as well my hand going to grasp the handle.

"That's really weird because I haven't told anyone, but you know." Gwen quickly stated halting my attempt at escape. "How could you know?" She enquired her head tilting to the side in confusion again.

"Yeah." I stated more to myself than Gwen. "Alright." I continued as I closed the gap between us. My mind had decided on an answer and even though a part of me realised it wouldn't work I couldn't stop myself now. "You finally found out, I'll tell you." I gulped; a small part of me considered telling her some of the truth, realising I could only go with my brain's plan I concluded with a sigh. "I'm psychic."

Gwen's eyes rolled as she laughingly replied. "No you're not."

"It's true." I contradicted in my best hurt tone.

"Alright, what am I thinking?" Gwen enquired in a mocking tone.

I pulled a face to show I was thinking, pretending to reach into her mind I decided to re-phase what she'd already confirmed. "That I'm not psychic."

A laugh escaped Gwen as she shook her head slightly. "You're strange." I shot a hurt look towards her as she gasped in breath. "I… I don't mean that in a nasty way. You're just funny. I like that." She reassured.

I shrugged slightly not really knowing how to reply to this kind of situation. "Erm, er, I'm pleased for you." I mumbled.

"Thank you." Gwen stated.

"What for?" I questioned confused. Sometimes when I talk to Gwen I feel like we are having two very different conversations, this was one of those times.

Gwen shook her head slightly. "Don't know, just for asking." She replied in a thankful tone.

"I didn't like to see you upset." I stated truthfully. "I have to… get on." I informed dismissively, Gwen smiled at me as she nodded in understanding. I mirrored her smile, happy to finally see it again. Raising my hand I waved slightly, Gwen returned the gesture and nodding internally I exited the room.

I re-joined Gaius outside of his meeting, shuffling nervously I faced the floor as we began walking back through the castle. Gaius listed things he needed to do in the hopes of finding a cure. I wasn't really listening, he seemed to be talking more to himself than me anyway.

A shrill whimpering caught my attention. "No, please. You've got to listen to me! Please, I haven't done anything wrong!" The cries were accompanied by the chink of metal and the scrapings of boots. I rushed towards the corridor the sound echoed from. "You have to listen to me, please! I am innocent, I swear! Let me go! I swear to you!" As I race forward the voice continues to beg, the words getting louder as I near the location. At the end of the corridor I notice someone being dragged past by a pair of guards. Not allowing myself to slow I burst into the corridor looking in the direction of the dragged person. My breath stops as I realise Gwen is the person the guards are dragging away. I half notice Arthur in front of the leading the way through the castle.

My boots scuff against the floor as I take half a step unsure how to help. Gwen seems to hear the noise as her head snaps towards me. Preparing to go after her I feel a hand retraining me, I can't focus upon it my heart is torn as Gwen begs me. "Merlin, Merlin, please help me!" The guards continue to drag her off through the castle. "Why won't you listen to me?" I turn and realised that Gaius was the one holding me back, the cries from Gwen continued as Gaius dragged me away. "Please listen to me!"

Glancing back over my shoulder I felt Gaius' grip upon my arm tighten, the tingling sensation of slower blood flow crept up my arm. He pushed me in front of him, his grip tight and forceful as we weaved through the castle, not stopping, not even acknowledging anyone. The lab door loomed ahead before I'd allowed myself time to wonder where I was being shepherded. The door slammed to a close behind us as Gaius finally released me.

"What have you done?" Gaius angrily asked.

"What?" I questioned in confusion.

"I warned you!" Gaius stated, concern and anger rippling through his tone. He stood in front of the door, baring it so I could not escape. Sighing he continued. "Oh, I understand. You thought you were doing good." A note of disapproval leaked into his tone.

I couldn't bear to look at him, the disappointment hurt, I only wanted to help. I fought back the tears that threatened to stream into my eyes. "I couldn't let her father die knowing I could cure him." I answered in a biting tone, finally forcing my eyes to meet Gaius'.

Gaius' eyes burned with anger, stepping away from the door his right index finger pointing upwards as he stated. "Didn't you think it might look a bit suspicious, the curing of one man?"

Taking half a step back in slight fear I glanced around quickly as I thought out loud. "Well then, all I have to do is…" My brain stalled at the conclusion it reached, a part of me realising I'd decided this too late. "I'll cure everyone! No one will ever have to know it was magic." I concluded taking a hesitant step towards the door.

"It's too late!" Gaius contradicted a dumbfounded look upon his face. "They think Gwen's a sorceress! They think she caused the disease!" Gaius concluded pointing to the door for some reason.

"But she didn't!" I simply stated as my vision blurred from the water gathering in my eyes.

I rushed towards the door opening it slightly prepared to run after the Gwen "Oh, and how are you going to prove that?" Gaius asked, capturing my attention. I paused for a moment looking down, nostrils flaring before I continued my retreat not stopping to answer the question.

Running through the castle everything began to blur around me, I ran situations through my head. Wondering what I should have done differently, how this could have been prevented. I could not allow Gwen to take the blame for me, none of this was her fault. I was stupid and reckless and I should have thought things through.

I slip into the main hall, somehow I have arrived just ahead of Arthur and the guards dragging Gwen. "Please listen to me I have done nothing, please." She continued to beg as she was brought into the room, she looked wildly around, likely not taking anything in other than the shortening distance between herself and the King. "I swear I haven't done anything!" She cried, the guards deposited her upon the floor a few feet away from Uther. Gwen breathed heavily looking up towards the disapproving King.

Uther looked towards Arthur who had moved to the right hand side of Gwen. "Well done." Uther praised.

Gwen sniffed as Uther's gaze turned upon her once more. In panic she looked around begging. "Why will no one believe me?!" Gwen looked towards my direction, I turned my head away. Shame and hurt ripping through me at the torment I had unknowingly caused. "He got better, he just recovered. I didn't do anything!" Gwen concluded sniffling.

I looked back towards her and sighed slightly as I realised she was no longer looking towards this direction. Shoes clicked against the floor as a voice announced. "I believe you." The Lady Morgana continued to walk into the room stopping at Gwen's side blocking her from Arthur. "Perhaps this is a disease that is not always fatal. Have you thought of that? Perhaps he recovered naturally." Morgana concluded, issuing a fleeting glance towards her servant.

"And what of this poultice that was found?" Uther quietly enquired, he clearly did not want to upset Morgana.

"What poultice?" Gwen questioned in confusion, my heart hammered. This was my fault, if I'd retrieved the poultice after the enchantment had been cast then Gwen would not be in this situation. I turned away again, denying myself to look at the woman I had placed at Uther's mercy. "I don't know anything about a poultice!" Gwen continued a confused tone hitching with her tears.

"It was found in your house. Undo this enchantment. Put an end to this contagion." Uther commanded in an even tone.

Gwen's breath hitched causing me to look over once more, Uther towered over her. His eyes staring straight at her in an unforgiving manor as she whimpered. "I can't!"

"I will show you no mercy." Uther informed coldly.

"I am not a witch." Gwen cried as she shook her head slightly. "I don't know how to stop the illness!" She concluded bowing her head with a heavy sob. Her emotion and confusion echoed through her voice, ripping at my heart. I could not watch any longer, my back leaned against the cold pillar behind me. I wondered if Uther's heart was as cold as the stone, so unmoving was he in his quest to vanquish the evil he saw in everything magic.

Uther sighed slightly it was clear he did not want to go against Morgana but his hatred of magic was something he could not see around. "If you will not undo your sorcery, you force my hand and I must find you guilty…" Uther stated in a quiet and cold tone.

"But I told you, I…" Gwen started her breath hitching with every word.

Uther didn't seem to notice her words as he commanded in a clear, calm and loud voice.. "It is therefore my duty to pronounce judgment. And under the circumstance I have no choice but to sentence you to death."

A whisper of a word crawled in Gwen's voice. "No."

"I can only hope that when you die, this evil plague dies with you." Uther's voice ripped through me, the tears finally falling from my eyes as the pain of what I'd done became too great a burden.

"No! No!" Gwen's cries echoed around me, I held in a hitching cry at the sound. This was all my doing, the torment felt as though it would tear me apart, but allowed me to be whole to endure this twisted torture.

Uther sighed slightly, his final commandment on this case ringing in my ears. "Take her away."

"No!" Gwen cried, my head snapped towards the sound as she was removed from the hall by the same guards that had brought her in. A part of me noticed Arthur still at the side looking hurt and confused as he pondered his thoughts. His left hand resting upon his chin as he did so. In the same part I noticed Morgana, she looked ready to shed her own tears, so pained and distressed was her expression. Her expression alone added another wound to my bleeding heart.

"Please, no! I'm innocent!" Gwen continued to cry as the guards inched closer to the hallway. Rubbing my eyes slightly I slumped against the pillar, angry, distressed, confused and so hurt. 'What do I do? What can I do?' I questioned myself.

"Please, please, no!" Each cry ripped another wound in me, glancing towards Gwen I noticed the guards had managed to get her into the hallway. Her eyes fixed upon me for a moment, just a moment. I banged my head accidentally against the pillar as I tried to think. "Please help me!" She begged, I knew where I was going. I'd finally decided to talk through the problem and hopefully that would help. I pushed myself from the cold stone, mingling into the exiting crowd of people. "Please, I beg you! No!" Gwen's pleas and cries echoed down the hallway as I raced towards my destination.

I reached the lab, pushing back my tears I entered slowly. The door swinging behind me I noticed Gaius working away at his table, he was sitting now clearly he'd been on his feet to long. Books and ingredients littered his work surface, loose papers slotting into the none-existent spaces in between them. My frame slumped the weight of what I'd done, I could no longer think of it. "Gaius? Can, can I talk to you? Please?" I questioned in a semi-quiet tone, every word shaking. Gaius looked at me and with his hand motioned to the seat situated behind him. Sitting down heavily I folded my hands upon my lap preparing myself for the words I had to say.

Looking down I began. "I thought I was doing good and that curing Gwen's father would help her." My head shook at the realisation of my own stupidity, the tears welling and watering my vision again. "I thought I was saving a life. It seemed so simple." I concluded somehow keeping my sorrow from my tone. Finally I looked at Gaius his face was soft with concern.

His brows raised as he began to scold and comfort in the same breath. "An easy solution is like a light in a storm, Merlin. Rush for it at your peril, for it may not always lead you to a safe harbour." He explained. The words were somewhat comforting however the scolding undertone forced me to look at the floor once more.

"I can see that now." I sighed.

"How many times have I warned you about the responsibilities of being a warlock?" Gaius scolded, I looked up slowly, the concern etched into every part of his face. He did not seem to enjoy the scolding as much as I feared he would.

I breathed a loud sigh as I realised what I wanted to do, I knew Gaius would not approve however I didn't think he'd stop me. "I must see her." I stated, disapproval leaked into Gaius' eyes however he spoke no word to stop me as I removed myself from the room.

As I rushed through the halls I realised that the blurring castle was becoming all too familiar, my body becoming used to the race to different locations. My body steered itself I continued onwards my mind running through everything seemed to only take in that I was heading in the direction I wanted. The steps down to the cells brought my mind back from its wallowing, the air was cooler down these stairs, the light darker. The dungeons were not pleasant but I guessed there was no need for them to be.

Descending the stone steps my right hand grasping the cold metal railing my gaze flickered; like the torches upon the walls, from the arch through which the cells lay and the steps I was currently descending to reach them.

Finally I reached the bottom of the steps and headed for the archway, the stones scraping under my worn boots. My body froze upon seeing the Lady Morgana exited the archway just as I entered, our gazes locked. Noticing the tear trailing down her check I decided not to say anything though I watched in slight awe as she raised a hand to shield her face from my view and her pace increased. My eyes followed Morgana as she all but ran to the steps that would lead her away.

Mentally shaking myself I snapped my head back to the direction I wanted to travel and rounded a corner, travelling through the dungeons I glanced into every cell wondering which kept Gwen prisoner. Finally I spotted a guard and he directed me to where I wanted to be. I rushed forward, she was in the cell the furthest from the light or exit, most likely where Uther had housed previous accused sorcerers.

The cell was in sight, the thicker bars and smaller spacing blocking a lot of the view into its contents. My face hovered an inch away from the metal as my eyes squinted as I moved my head trying to see clearer. I spotted her sitting upon the bench on the left wall. Her face was downcast, distress evident from her form. "Gwen." I called.

Her gaze flicked towards me, a smile stretching across her features as she realised who I was. Chains clinking and rattling she walked towards me, she walked so far then the chains pulled her. She looked down in confusion at her bindings. The chains connected to the shackles lead to the far wall, the chain was set at a length shorter than the cell. Purposely so that the prisoners couldn't endanger whoever might visit. "Thank you." Gwen stated finally looking at me again.

In my crouched position I reeled back slightly at the thanks. My brows furrowed in confusion. "What for?" I questioned.

"For coming to see me." Gwen stated in a tone that made me feel like I should have already realised what she wanted to thank me for.

Holding back a small laugh everything that had happened ran through my head, my heart clenched as everything I had done wrong as I'd tried to help assaulted me. "I'm sorry." I apologised as my head shook from side to side.

Tears pooled into Gwen's eyes as she shook her head slightly, looking down she contradicted. "It's not your fault."

I had to tell her, I felt like I should tell her I believed in her innocence especially as I knew I was the one at fault. I gulped slightly. "Well…" I started.

"It's alright." Gwen interrupted. "Don't worry about me." She continued shaking her head more violently, her chains rattling as her body shifted. Glancing at the floor she pressed on with what she wanted to say, her voice breaking slightly. "There's no point crying about it." Gwen's eyes slowly returned to my face as she caught herself. "I mean… I mean, I'm not saying that you were going to cry about me." Shaking her head slightly she concluded. "Obviously I don't think that."

Despite the situation I found a small smile creeping onto my lips as Gwen rambled as she normally would. "Oh, Gwen. I can't have this happen." I whispered as my mind decided what I could do to change this situation. I pushed myself from the bars, prepared to do what I had to.

"Please, one thing." Gwen pleaded stopping my retreat. I squinted at her through the bars as she fiddled with the sleeves of her dress in a nervous manor. "You, you don't have to, but…" Gwen trailed off.

"What?" I encouraged.

Gwen's eyes flicked to mine as she breathed deeply, preparing herself for what she would say next. "Remember me." She wished her gaze locking with mine a tear running down her cheek.

My broken heart stuttered a beat at the words, I had to do it. The plan my mind had come up with would only get me into trouble but I'd rather that then my interference result in my friend's death. "You're not going to die. I'm not going to let this happen." I informed, Gwen seemed confused at my words but I did not have the time to explain them to her. With a final glance I turned and rushed out of the dungeons.

'I would not be talked out of this I needed to do it, this may be the only way to save my friend. It was my fault anyway, why should she have to take the blame for me? This is how I save her, this will work, it will. It has to!' These thought raced through my head at the same speed that I travelled through the halls and corridors of the castle. 'Please, let me get there quickly.' I muttered internally.

The doors to the main hall lay ahead, panting I forced my aching limbs to move faster. Without pausing to breathe I forced both door open with as much force as my arms could muster. To my slight irritation they opened at a steady speed. Panting I found myself in eyes of the court, Gaius was there as he always was. Arthur stood behind an occupied seat, however I ripped my eyes to Uther who was currently mid pace behind his chair.

"It was me!" I started, grabbing the attention of everyone as the doors creaked to a close behind me. Forcing a deep breathe into my lungs I gulped down the air wanting to continue before I lost my nerve. "It was me who used magic to cure Gwen's father!" Uther turned to face me his left hand griped then top of his seat in a threatening manner. Part of me realised the disbelieving look Arthur and the rest of the council shot towards me. I panted realising that they hadn't understood my intentions. "Gwen is not the sorcerer." I spat. "I am!" I concluded my hands pivoting to face the crowd in a revealing and submitting gesture.

Hands slammed into the table as Gaius stood up from his seat. "Merlin! Are you mad?" He questioned in an un-approvingly disbelief tone.

"I cannot let her die for me." I almost snarled at Gaius, looking back at the man who now held my life in his hands I concluded. "I place myself at your mercy."

Uther slowly walked back to the front of his chair a calculating glare locked onto my figure. In the corner of my eye I watched Gaius face the king. "He doesn't know what he's talking about." He stated in his physician voice.

"I do." I contradicted not allowing the doubt to be planted in the minds of those present.

A heavy pause lingered in the air, my words seemed to almost echo in the now silence. Gaius' head snapped back to look at me, pain etched into his eyes. "Then arrest him." Uther commanded as he sat in his chair.

Two knights who were standing close to me grabbed one of my arms each as Arthur pushed himself from the occupied chair and walked towards me. "Father, please! I can't allow this! This is madness!" Arthur stated in a very irritated tone, he seemed to catch himself a few steps closer and held onto one of the occupied chairs again. His right arm extended over the occupant's head to point towards me. "There's no way Merlin is a sorcerer." He finished his arm dropping to the chair in front of him, I imagined he would hold a look upon his face that would cause his father to think of the words he spoke.

"Did you not hear him?" The king contradicted.

Arthur's head slumped slightly as he answered. "Yes."

Uther glared at me, distaste for the magic he now believed I was. "He admitted it." He spat his tone cold and uncaring for Arthur's pleas.

I nodded slightly there was no way I could see Arthur managing to talk Uther around. "He saved my life, remember." Arthur stated, he seemed to be clutching at straws to get his father to listen. The guards grip was tight and uncomfortable, I hoped Arthur would give in so I could take Gwen's place and be free of this grip.

"Why would he fabricate such a story?" Uther asked in an irritated tone, he'd had enough and it was obvious he wanted Arthur to get to the point. My eyes focused on Uther, a part of me wished to perform a magic act to prove my words but I could not bring myself to do so.

"As Gaius said, he's got a… grave mental disease." Arthur answered slowly, buying time I did not want.

"Really?" Uther quizzed as he turned in his seat to view his son more clearly. The words Arthur had spoken confused me but clearly interested Uther.

The king leaned forward in his seat indicating for Arthur to continue. "He's in love." Arthur stated.

"What?" I asked in disbelief as my head snapped to Arthur. I wasn't in love, not with anyone.

"With Gwen." Arthur continued tilting his head to the side, I felt more than heard the crowd chuckle at Arthur's reveal.

The knights had let go of my hands upon seeing that the prince had something to say before I was removed from the room. "I am not." I stated pointing my right hand with my index finger extended out towards the hall.

"Yes, you are." Arthur contradicted a smile upon his face as he realised he was winning this fight. I considered my magic once again however I knew I needed to clear this misunderstanding first.

"No way." I counted. I liked Gwen more than most but there was no way I loved her. She reminded me of what I could have been if mother had not insisted I would do better for myself disguised as a man. She was so friendly to everyone how could not like her.

I turned to face Arthur, chain-mail jingling echoed from a distance as I raised my now free arms in confusion. "I saw yesterday with that flower she'd given you." Arthur informed as he walked towards me once more.

My checks flushed slightly at the reminder of the flower. I laughed embarrassed about that information being revealed. Looking towards the head of the table I noticed Uther had vacated his chair and was pacing towards me on the opposite side of the table that Arthur had previously occupied. "I am not in love with her". I concluded as Arthur inched closer I noticed that Gaius remained quiet as he seated himself again.

"It's alright." Arthur stated, laying his right arm over my shoulder. My heart hammered loudly in my ears, almost ringing out all other noises. This was the closest I'd been to the prince in public, somehow so I'd avoided bathing or completely dressing him. This closeness sin public wasn't uncomfortable, his arm felt nice against my shoulder but it did shock me. "You can admit it." Arthur continued his voice bring me back from my train of thoughts.

I looked out at the giggling council as Arthur's other arm made a sweeping gestured towards them. Uther stood behind two occupied chairs in a similar fashion that Arthur had done, just on the opposite side of the long table. "I don't even think of her like that!" I shouted, unable to control my emotions as Arthur's right hand squeezed my right shoulder, the blush stained my checks from embarrassment and from the heat that poured from the prince's body that rested so tantalisingly close to mine.

"Perhaps she cast a spell on you." Uther stated mockingly as he leaned forward slightly between the chairs. Catching my gaze Uther laughed, the rest of the table and Arthur joining in after a moment.

Arthur shook me slightly for some reason I did not understand. "Merlin is a wonder, but the wonder is that he's such an idiot." Arthur joked grasping the back of my head and shaking it slightly. My mind heightened the sensation of his fingers running through my hair and tugging upon it. He did not hurt me, his grip was strong but produced no pain. He pushed me slightly, my head swam with the feelings of him being so close and the touches he had given. My body limb, not responding to the light shove, my gaze not lifting from the floor where it had fallen to for a moment. Arthur's sudden serious tone caught my attention and I regained the usage of my limbs, looking towards Arthur my eyes locked with his icy blue ones as he stated. "There's no way he's a sorcerer."

I breathed almost laboured as my heart rate continued on its speeding journey. I could not tear my eyes from Arthur's, I was swimming, and frozen in place by the gleam of the chilled blue that captured me. "Don't waste my time again. Let him go." Uther commanded, Arthur smiled at me slightly a small laugh whispered in the air as he turned and walked back to his place. My heart finally beginning to settle down I looked out at the table in the hall both Uther and Arthur were returning to their previous spots. They clearly intended to carry on as if I'd never entered. Turning with a heavy sigh I slowly exited the hall, footsteps following in my shadow.

I didn't look back, I knew who followed in my footsteps as I charged through the castle to the one place we could talk. The door I desired quickly came into view, reaching forward I did not slow as I finally entered the room that had become like a home to me. The door swung open wildly at my speed I paced into the room turning slightly to ensure Gaius was within ear shot. "Arthur's the idiot." I stated, coming to a standstill. My embarrassment had died out somewhat during the rushed walk but I still needed to completely rid myself of my irritation.

"No. He was right to do as he did. And, thankfully, he saved you from your own stupidity." Gaius scolded casting me a glance as he continued into the lab.

I was really irritated and Gaius seemed to only fan the fires I was trying to snuff out. "What else could I do?" I whined as I walked forward coming in behind Gaius as I continued my complaint. "It's my fault Gwen's going to die." I was so annoyed with myself 'I couldn't even save her by confessing. How am I supposed to fix this?' I wondered to myself.

Gaius stopped walking I managed to stop my advance before I collided with him. Spinning to face me he stated. "Yes, but you don't prove her innocence by offering to jump into the flames yourself." My mouth opened to protest however Gaius continued not allowing my interruption. "You do it by finding out what's causing the disease!" Gaius concluded turning once more and continuing towards his table filled with his ingredients.

Frustration boiled within me, I paced backwards slightly trying to defeat this defeated feeling. "Well, whatever it is, one thing's for sure: Arthur isn't going to find it." I informed all my embarrassed and infuriated feelings fuelling my lips as I continued to speak my mind not considering the words before they were uttered. "He thinks he is so sharp! But even when I told him I was a wizard, he still couldn't see it." I shook my head slightly, part of me relieved that he hadn't assumed I was telling the truth. The other part of me was hurt, injured from the fact he could not see who I truly was. I knew that feeling well.

Gaius continued with his work sifting through books and looking for items as I'd complained. "Sometimes they're pretty hard to spot." He informed turning to face me with a sympathetic look upon his face.

"Well, maybe I should go around wearing a pointy hat." I concluded shrugging slightly.

Gaius picked a key from a spot amongst his things, grasping it carefully he turned to me once more. "I don't think you'll find one big enough." Shock rose my eyebrows as I realised the teasing tone behind Gaius' words. He did not give me a chance to counter as he proceeded with informing me of what we needed to do now. "Anyway, forget that. If you're going to save Gwen, we have to find out what's contaminating the water." Gaius shifted towards me, suddenly throwing an old warn light brown bag at me as he as he walked passed me. Looking down at the slightly dusty bag I now held in confusion I ran the words through my head once more. Realising where we were headed I turned and followed in Gaius' shadow, securing the long bag handle over my body and resting it upon my left shoulder as we exited the lab.

Walking through the corpse filled courtyard filled me with sadness, guilt and shame. 'Why did I deserve the right to save Gwen's father when all these people could have also been saved by my magic. What right did my preference to Gwen give me to choose her father over the sheet covered corpses scattered all around me. I suppose this is a little like a battlefield, except the enemy is an unknown source with magic force.' I mentally speculated as we exited the town's borders.

The keys in Gaius' grip chimed their tune in the light breeze of the slightly chilly sunny day. I was glad I was wearing my coat as the chilled air swirled between my left hand that hung by my side, swaying as I walked. The green of the hill upon which we now walked was a nice contrast to the death within the walls we currently walked next to.

A small tower caused an area of the wall reached out further than the rest of the uniformed structure walls. A small low wall extended from the tower across the flat that we currently walked across and continued a little ways down the hill we were atop off. I supposed the wall was meant as a warning more than a prevention method, the guard stationed on top of the tower would likely deal with any individual crossing the low wall.

A small wooden door cut into the stone of the tower. The keys jingled ferociously as Gaius unlocked the door, the frame so small he had to hunch to fit into the cut space of the stone frame. Gaius swung the shrieking doors open onto a dimly lit corridor, the pathway was the same as all those within the castle, wide and open however I noticed the corridor quickly descended down a flight of stairs.

Curiosity sped my steps as I stepped through the door after Gaius, peering down the steps I noticed that the area was not dimly lit, it was blacker than night. Taking half a step back I turned to the only torch that lined the walls noticing a stack of torches ready to be lit stationed beside it. Quickly grabbing one I positioned the oil soaked end to the flame, twisting the wood to help all the torch catch.

My magic tingled in the back of my mind, I resisting the urge to look around I continued down into the dark. For some reason I could feel eyes upon me, the feeling almost tickled annoyingly out of reach. I couldn't place where the feeling orientated from or why my magic was reacting to it. Mentally shaking my head I stopped looking back to find Gaius drawing closer to me. Tightening my grip upon the torch I walked with Gaius into the darkness of the path ahead.

The stone walls of the palace were quickly replaced by the carefully cut rock of the hill. The steps were also changed to the cut rock however they had been perfectly smoothed of imperfections to ensure an easier journey. Every so often a lantern lighted the area around us, I briefly wondered who had the job of changing the lights over when they needed to be changed. The steps flattened to a smooth slope, corners and turns began to appear within our journey. Sticking to the side of Gaius my eyes constantly flicked back to him for directions.

During the journey down the flight of stairs I'd switched to stand on the left hand of Gaius, I didn't want to risk dropping the torch upon him if my grip wavered. Turning another corner Gaius picked up his pace taking the lead within our little pack a stone wall came into view as we completed our tour of the tunnel. A stone step lay in front of the wall behind which water glistened in the torchlight. We continued towards the extent of Camelot's water supply.

"The water from here supplies the whole town." Gaius informed in his educational tone. "Take a sample." He ordered, his hand flicked into view briefly, my head snapped towards him. Looking back at the water I moved the torch into my right hand passing it to Gaius. Taking a step forward I pulled my bag forward, opening the flap I rummaged within its contents. My hands touched the cold of glass as I stepped up onto the stone step. Pulling the bottle from my bag, I pushed the bag back with my arm as I uncorked the vile. Bending over I touched the wet and bitterly cold stone wall as I reached my right hand forward, dipping the glass of the small vile beneath the surface of the still water.

To ensure I rid as many air bubbles as I could from the container I submerged my hand fully into the water, the bracelet that mother had given me before I left home following my hands example. The cold bite of the liquid nearly caused me to snap my hand back, biting my lip slightly I forced myself to endure the tingling cold that swept into my numbing fingers. A few seconds past, once the bubbles of water stopped popping above the surface of the otherwise calm fluid. Turning the bottle upright, I removed my hand from the water, tipping a little out of the top to allow the stopper to return to its place I straightened, placing the cork securely in place.

Turning I showed Gaius the sealed vile, he nodded enthusiastically. "Let's take it back and examine it." He stated, looking down I quickly placed the vile back into the satchel. With the glass and its containing liquid secure I removed the torch from Gaius' hand into my right one. Jumping from the stone step I walked with Gaius upon my left back to the direction we had come from.

A throaty growl accompanied by the sound of water falling issued from behind us, magic flaring ready for a threat I whipped around. A creature its arms raised, yellow claws pointing and fangs snarling in a threatening manner. The creature was brown, grotesque looking, it appeared to have no eyes though I did not doubt that it could see us. The creature's skin was uneven, un-popped bubbles and cavities of skin littered its frame, it seemed to either be mud coloured or covered in mud from the water.

The creature snarled again my magic pushed wishing to be free to guard against this creature. Before I could think of the reaction my magic had to the creature it submerged itself within the stored water. "What the hell was that?" I questioned my voice shaking ever so slightly.

A grip connected with my torch-free arm, flinching I snapped my glare towards Gaius, a confused and concerned expression fixed upon his features. I didn't put up a fight as I was dragged back through the tunnel. Gaius' arm did not leave mine, the grip was tight it hurt slightly at the intensity. Entering the light of day once more I extinguished the torch in a bucket of water underneath the first lantern near where the un-lit torches lay. Gaius' grip pulled me from the corridor only releasing me as he hurried to lock the wooden door in the tower.

Gaius spun facing me once more, I flashed a concerned look his way. He seemed to not see the glance, he was thinking, I could almost see the strain as he forced himself to think of something. I wanted to ask what was wrong but slightly fearing the tight grip upon my arm once more I remained silent as I followed after his hurried footsteps.

The creature I'd witnessed taking refuge within the water plagued my mind, something that un-usual and frightening would not be easy to shake from my memories. Sighing I condemned myself to the nightmares that would likely plague me. Shaking the thought from my head I noticed the lab door up ahead, Gaius rushed forward the door swinging violently in his rush. The propelled door attempted to snap back into my path just as quickly as Gaius had entered, my outstretched hand prevented the completion of this possibility.

Gaius wasted no time in racing to his many books on the balcony, I watched from below as Gaius began pulling a collection of books from various places. When he'd collected as many as he could carry he descended the ladder, laying them out upon the table we normally ate at. Looking briefly at the covers of the scattered books I realised Gaius was looking for the creature, I hoped identifying it would help us.

Leafing through pages of a book, scanning the words and diagrams looking for anything similar to what we'd witnessed. Gaius leafed through a book to my left, he skimmed through the pages at an envious pace. "Here." He stated his hand connecting with the page of the book he currently had been looking through. Turning I followed as Gaius stood grasping the book and span around. Shifting a little closer to my guardian he flashed a glance at me, likely to check he had my attention. "It was an Afanc." Gaius informed pointing to the information upon the page with his right hand.

Flicking my gaze from the book to Gaius and his self-satisfied smile I couldn't prevent myself from asking. "An… a what?"

Gaius flick a short glance my way. "A beast born of clay, and conjured up only by the most powerful sorcerer." He informed reading from the book in his hands. Finished with his reading he looked straight ahead and sighed heavily. "Now we have to find a way to defeat it." He mumbled, looking back at the book provided no answers. Gaius looked up and around, shelves of books I'd previously failed to notice littered the walls, all stack full with books. "But where?" Gaius questioned.

"That could take days. Gwen'll be dead by then." I stated looking back at Gaius.

"Have you a better idea?" Gaius asked his gaze still fixed upon the mountain of books that situated the wall space around us.

Looking away I wondered where I could go for help now, one thought struck me. I didn't want to use it but I had no choice, time was short and it would definitely be faster than leafing through all those books. Sighing slightly I resigned myself to what I had to do, I had to rid Camelot of this creature. Then and only then would the disease stop and Uther would see reason.

Running seemed a part of my daily life that I was just going to have to get used to. The corpses in the courtyard had been cleared away, likely the body count was scaring the town's people and were hidden to reduce the fright. Men with members of the guard guarding them were huddled around a structure, my pace slowed. Heart hammering, my breath stuck in my throat as I noticed what the structure was, a pyre. They were going to burn Gwen?

A new sense of urgency fuelled my steps as I altered my route slightly, there was now something I had to do first. The decent of steps and the weaving through corridors blurred; even though I slowed to a walk inside to avoid suspicion, the destination in sight. Peering through the bars of the cell I shifted until I noticed Gwen, she laid in the hay on the floor as close to the door as was likely comfortable. Her left arm was tucked under her head, finally in a position I could see; a bar positioned just in front of my nose I called. "Gwen?" Moments passed, tense moments my heart pounding in my ears was the only reply I received. "I'm going to get you out." I informed confidently, I didn't care if she was sleeping I needed to tell her. I hoped the words would reach her even in slumber. "I will." I concluded turning I retraced my steps through the cells, casting a glance back before I turned my first corner.

A short walk later and I entered the cave that would no doubt leave me with more questions than answers. The dragon's cave was as large, cold and intimidating as it had been on my previous encounter. The light of the torch in my left hand didn't reach far ahead, squinting I gazed into the blackness of the cave, it was dragon-less. "Hello?" I shouted my voice echoing all around me.

"Hello." The dragon replied making me jump at the sudden noise. His wing beats and chain clicking were now echoed around the large cave. "The great warlock returns, as I knew she would." He stated lowered himself onto the large rock in front of me as he'd done before, I wondered if he'd moved since I'd seen him last fly above the only entrance.

"I need to know how to defeat an Afanc." I informed him wanting to get straight to the point, the pyre being built in the courtyard lingering in the front of my mind.

The dragon smirked slightly before replying in a mocking tone. "Yes, I suppose you do."

Nodding slightly I begged. "Will you help me?"

The dragon's eyes locked with mine, seemingly searching for something in my gaze. "Trust the elements that are at your command." He informed.

"Elements?" I stated in surprise, running the sentence through my head again I shook my head realising the dragon was being as cryptic as before. "But what is it I have to do?" I asked in an irritated tone.

"You cannot do this alone. You are but one side of a coin. Arthur is the other." The dragon answered his head moving back and forth slightly as he spoke.

Vigorously shaking my head I admitted. "I, I don't understand. Just tell me what I have to do." My voice grew louder as the dragon shifted from his perch. He reared onto his back legs, wings spreading wide. "No!" I yelled as the wings flapped and the mighty dragon lifted from the rock. "Please, help me!" I begged my arms going wide. The pyre in my mind loomed ever closer a reminder that time was ticking.

"I have." The voice of the dragon laughed as he flew into the far reaches of the cave.

Shrugging in defeat, the laughter still bouncing around me. "Oh, yeah, right. Thanks." I muttered sarcastically.

Running through the courtyard revealed to my horror that the pyre was finished, the men who'd been building it last I passed were nowhere to be seen. Dread filled me at the deadline evidently standing in a foreboding sense of failure. The bell rang in the square, adding to the forebodingness of the scene before me. Tears threatening to run wild I turned and ran to the place I could now find answers.

Books, the titles of which did not reveal the treasures I may find within. However stories and fantasies were not something I could afford to distract myself with. I was glad that most of the books that took residence within this room were of educational material.

Descending the wooden ladder with another armful of book I heard the door creak, footsteps followed shortly after but the books in front of me were the centre of my attention. I'd been creating piles of books, ones that were useless, ones that might contain the information I sought, ones in different languages and ones that I'd quickly looked through and needed to return to their places. "Merlin, what are you doing?" A voice I quickly recognised as Gaius' enquired.

"Looking for a book." I replied flipping through several to reveal only useless information.

"You going to tell me which one?" Gaius questioned his voice drawing closer to me.

The search seemed useless, most of the books looked the same from the outside and I'd no real idea what to look for. I decided it didn't hurt to have Gaius involved in my quest, surely he was more versed in the information I needed. "A book on elements." I informed, the books I had just brought down the ladder all seemed to be useless, I flipped a page in annoyance.

"Elements?" Gaius' voice rang with surprise.

"Yes." I replied. "Which one would I find them in?" I asked my annoyance seeping into my tone as I

"Well, most of them. The study of base elements is at the very heart of the scientific process." Gaius informed as I shuffled through loose scrolls of paper, locking glances with Gaius I realised he was confused and concerned but I didn't have the time to deal with the emotions.

Leaning towards Gaius, arm folding over an open book I enquired. "But how would they help me kill an Afanc?"

Taking a step towards me Gaius seemed to think a moment before revealing. "Well, the Afanc is a creature made from earth and water. That's two of the four base elements."

The wording was a little lost to me but I hadn't the time to peruse the terminology. "What about the other two?" I asked turning so I could see Gaius more clearly.

"Well, perhaps they will destroy it." Gaius speculated, hope gleaming in his eyes. "You want fire. Wind and fire." He tasked. Muttering to myself I pushed myself to my feet from the table I was kneeling at. "How did you find this out?" Gaius questioned.

I couldn't tell Gaius the truth, surely he would fear for my safety knowing I sought council with a dragon. "Erm… I just knew, you know? Part of my powers." I lied, shrugging slightly in shame I hoped the motion was perceived as embarrassment.

Looking back at the books on the table I heard the confusion in Gaius' tone as he enquired. "What else do your powers tell you?"

Flicking a glance to Gaius I looked at the wall in thought, hoping to look as though I was consulting my magic. "That I am only one side of a coin." I started turning my gaze back upon Gaius. "The brighter side, obviously." I concluded.

"And who's the other side?" Gaius asked before I could return to look through the books.

Sighing slightly I informed. "I think that might be Arthur." A look of shock plastered onto Gaius' face only interrupted by the squeak of the door swinging open.

"They're bringing forward the execution." The person stated, upon hearing the voice both mine and Gaius' gaze had snapped to the speaker revealing it to be none other than the Lady Morgana. She quickly approached us saying as she slowed. "We have to prove Gwen's innocence."

"We're trying." Gaius voiced with a sympathetic tone.

Morgana stopped a short distance from Gaius, looking at both of us she begged. "Please, just tell me what I can do to help."

"We need Arthur." I stated a shiver going up my spine at the tone I'd taken, the seriousness of the demand was laced into the three words.

Morgana's brow furrowed. "Arthur?" She questioned in confusion.

Walking around the table and Gaius, I brought Morgana in on what was going on. "There's a monster, an Afanc, in the water supply. That's what's causing the plague." Stopping a short distance from Morgana I noticed the tension almost seeping from her.

"Well, we must tell Uther." Morgana stated her gaze flicking back and forth.

Shaking my head violently I met Gaius' gaze briefly, flicking to a pleading gaze he explained. "The Afanc's a creature forged by magic. Telling Uther wouldn't save Gwen. He'd just blame her for conjuring it." I nodded along with his explanation my gaze returning to Morgana.

"So what are we to do?" Morgana quizzed nodding her understanding.

"We need to destroy it. Then the plague will stop and Uther may see sense." I stated my gaze changing from Morgana to Gaius then back again.

Morgana nodded more vigorously as she sighed. "And that's why you need Arthur?"

"He's our best chance." I informed, holding my arms behind my back I swayed slightly as I changed my tone to a disappointed one and continued. "But he won't want to disobey the King."

Morgana's gaze flicked between Gaius and I. "Leave that to me." She informed with confidence swiftly turning and retreating. My attention was grabbed by movement in the corner of my eye, turning to look at the object I realised Gaius was moving back through the lab towards his sand where the keys we used earlier were resting. With the chime of metal on metal he picked them up before handing them swiftly to me.

The courtyard was the place I decided to await Morgana and hopefully Arthur, the pyre loomed in the centre of the area, two guards posted; one at either side, to watch for trouble. The guard closest to me glared at me in suspicion as I slowly stepped a little closer to the pyre. Although I was cautious to leave a wide distance between myself and the pyre I stared towards the wood in fear. The click of heeled shoes caught my attention, spinning quickly my eyes fell upon Arthur adjusting the long brown coat that he wore. Morgana swiftly followed in his footsteps. Stepping away from the pyre I moved towards a place within the courtyard that I could join them. Arthur and Morgana quickly shortened the distance between us.

Arthur's left hand gripped his scabbard as he withdrew his sword, taking that as a signal I walked ahead of the duo as the steel rung free of its container. Marching ahead we swiftly arrived at the door to the water tunnel. With no more than a swift glance over my shoulder I turned the key, removed it from the lock and pushed both doors open. Arthur quickly followed me into the tunnel, casting a glance into the dark he picked an unlit torch and held it to the flame of the lantern.

Morgana entered the small corridor, Arthur passed the lit torch to her and proceeded to light another. Without a word Arthur walked down into the dark, easily navigating the turns and corridors of the underground passageway. I followed behind Arthur, not daring to allow a great distance to build between us if I was to help defeat this creature. The two shadows that I cast on the floor was enough for me to realise Morgana took up the rear of our small line, the click of her boots only reinforced the obvious.

"You'd better be right about this, Merlin." Arthur stated his voice echoing in the corridor we currently travelled. We were getting closer, a few more turns rested between us and the storage water, and I allowed my silence to answer for me as we turned another corner. A long low growl echoed around us, Arthur stopped; frozen with the fear that tingled up my spine and rendered me motionless, I followed his example. A gasp from Morgana brought us to life again. Looking around I couldn't see anything in the gloom, my gaze fixing upon Arthur for a short while before returning to checking the area. The growl or at least the echo of it continued to sound. "You should stay here." Arthur ordered, shocked my gaze flicked to him relief washed through me at the realisation his gaze was fixed upon Morgana.

"I'm coming with you." Morgana contradicted her voice filled with certainty.

"No." Arthur shouted his voice ringing with authority.

A slight chuckle echoed from Morgana as she queried. "Scared I'll show you up?"

"Father will slam us both in chains if he knew I'd endangered you." Arthur informed the irritation causing his tone to take an unexpected edge.

"Well good thing he doesn't know about it then." Morgana countered, holding in a giggle I continued to watch their back and forth from the side lines.

Arthur sighed slightly, the anger gone from his tone he stated in a concerned tone. "I'm telling you, Morgana, turn back. You could get hurt."

Morgana's face fell slightly at the register of the serious tone. "You could too… if you don't get out of my way." She stated adding a giggle to the tease. I forced my lips down fighting the smile at Arthur's expense, Morgana strolled forward skirting around Arthur as he sighed whilst Morgana passed, Arthur hanging his head in defeat.

Mentally shaking my head I forced myself to think back to the task at hand as began to walk in the direction Morgana had headed. Arthur fell into step by my side as we rounded the corner, Morgana a few steps ahead flicked her gaze to us before asking. "How are we going to find it?"

"I just hope we do before it finds us." I muttered in reply looking at the walls of the underground tunnels.

A swooshing sound startled me, turning I noticed Arthur standing stationary facing the opposite direction. "Stop." He ordered.

"What?" I questioned my gaze flickering from Arthur to the turns he now faced. My heart raced as I squinted trying to see anything in the dim gloom of the cavern.

"It's just a shadow." Arthur sighed, he slowly turned back to head the way we were already travelling. At last the water storage area came into view, the passage ahead split up in several directions and no growls sounded to help us pick a direction. "Spread out." Arthur said, my eyes flicking to him as he spoke. Nodding in my direction he pointed to a pathway with his sword. Understanding that he wished for me to travel in that direction I stared back at Arthur to see him motion to a different route to Morgana with his torch.

Taking that as the signal, grudgingly I turned my back on Arthur and travelled towards the route he'd pointed out for me. I got no further than the first corner, a snarl sounded from a distance behind me. The grunts of Arthur caused my heart to race my feet already running back to his side.

"What is it? Are you alright?" Morgana's hysterical voice questioned.

My heart raced, I needed to hear that answer so I desperately urged my feet on. I could see the shadows of my companions just ahead. "Yeah." Arthur whispered, the echo of the tunnel the only reason it reached my ears.

Finally I was by his side again, I sighed regaining my breath. "Did you see it?" I asked my motion not stopping in time and pushing passed Arthur, towards the direction he was staring at. The fright was evident in his eyes and his hands gripped his sword and torch tighter.

"Yes." Arthur answered.

My eyes flashed from Arthur to the tunnel ahead, needing to know if this was the same thing I'd seen I quizzed. "What did it look like?"

Arthur took several steps back. "It, it's quick." He answered as he turned looking for the creature.

A scream issued form Morgana, racing forward Arthur pulled her back. A scared Morgana drew closer to me as Arthur tried to push the Afanc away. The Afanc pushed Arthur back, my heart pounded in my ears in fear for Arthur. The torch nearly touched the creature and it retreated back into the shadows.

Arthur spun as I walked forward, both of us searching for the beast. Passing a quick glance over Arthur I was pleased to see the push the creature had dealt didn't appear to have hurt the Prince. "Where is it?" Arthur asked.

As Arthur seeped his torch in all directions a low growl issued from the tunnel we'd travelled down to arrive at this point. "I think it's gone this way!" I yelled back, eyes straining to see into the darkness. As the light of a torch approached a dark figure shifted in the shadows, delving deeper into the cavern. Feeling a push to my side I flinched slightly, looking at the culprit I watched as Arthur stormed ahead of me. We reached a main corridor and now had to choose which direction we would travel. Arthur stopped just inside the side corridor the noise had come from looking to the right revealed nothing.

The growl issued again, to the left within the main corridor. One glance down the stone hallway revealed a pool of moonlight or dimmed sunlight resting upon the floor. A shadow grew into the light, the shape that of the strange creature we were hunting. Arthur inched forward into the bigger tunnel, the creature growled lowly before slowly stepping into the light. It walked on four legs, however its back legs looked more powerful. As if sensing the light the Afanc hissed backing away slightly Arthur slowly closed the distance between himself and the creature.

His left hand still securely held his torch as he raised his sword in his right hand and pointed it towards the creature. The creature swiped at him however Arthur managed to doge the blow with ease. I wondered where the speed the creature had demonstrated earlier had disappeared to. However the curious thought was wiped from my mind as Arthur lunged another attack. The Afanc growled loudly and swiped towards Arthur with its other arm. The sword was knocked from Arthur's hand as he stumbled backwards.

Morgana clearly fearing for Arthur's life stepped forward, the Afanc hissed at the closeness of the flame. It swiped the area it felt the flame, Morgana backed against the cavern wall as her torch sailed to the ground. The Afanc was angered and hissed as it began closing the short gap between itself and Morgan. Arthur rushed forward his torch forcing the creature's attention to switch from Morgana to him. Arthur stepped from one side of the corridor to another likely in an attempt to ensure the creature's attention stayed focused upon him.

Arthur succeed in gaining the creature's attention but was forced against the wall like Morgana had been in his efforts. The creature growled viscously as it raised its right front leg to strike, the distance was to short, it'd hit Arthur. "Arthur, use the torch!" I shouted, my heart pounding at the danger inches away from injuring the Prince I wanted to protect. Arthur swung the torch at the creature forcing it to rear up, the gap allowed Arthur to move back into the corridor. The threat still loomed the fire the only thing forcing it to stay back. My eyes flicking to Arthur, I chanted quietly prepared to face any and all consequences after the beast was slain. "Lyfte ic Þe in balwen ac forhienan." As always my magic burned forward stinging my eyes as it rushed to complete its task.

The flame flickered as a small breeze filtered through the cavern. I felt my magic grasp the wind and mould it to be a bigger stronger wind. The wind caught Arthur's torch forcing him to shield his eyes with his spare arm, the fire leapt into the flames creating bigger brighter light. The creature directly in the wind and torches path was smothered in the magic enhanced wind flame. A low grown echoed down the shinning corridor as the flames destroyed the creature.

Arthur lowered his torch when the light faded, no monster lay ahead threatening the Prince's life any more. The smile could not be held off my face as I realised I'd saved him. The eyes that I'd felt upon entering the cavern again faded quickly, mentally shaking my head I smiled at Arthur who turned to look at both Morgana and I in confusion.

The morning dawned, a new day was under way in Camelot. Walking through the courtyard revealed no signs of the pyre that had been due to light the previous night. Upon our return from vanquishing the Afanc, Arthur had informed us that he'd convince his father to scrap the fire now that the beast was slain. Gaius beamed upon my return to the lab, a quick assurance that no one was injured later he left to help Arthur convince Uther. Upon Gaius' return it appeared that Uther had seen sense, the pyre was dismantled for now. Though Gaius had informed me the king still intended to keep it in reserve should the beast's death not halt the plague, I nodded my understanding. Uther had also agreed to free Gwen if the plague was stopped, I nearly cheered but managed to restrain myself.

So it was that I travelled with Morgana and Gwen's father to release the wrongly accused prisoner. The guard opened the gate, Gwen's father rushed forward to hug his daughter. "Dad!" Gwen cried as her arms wrapped around him.

"Oh, my little child!" Gwen's father soothed.

Breaking the hug Gwen looked to Morgana, tears dripping off her face. "Thank you!" She cried, rushing forward as if to embrace Morgana. Her father placed his left hand upon Gwen's left shoulder, she stopped blushing likely suddenly remembering her place as Morgana's maid.

"Don't thank me." Morgana reassured, Gwen's father's hand slipped to grip her arm, I could not hold back my smile. "It was more Merlin." Morgana informed shock wiped the smile from my face. Glancing at Morgana she smiled slightly at me. In confusion I looked back to Gwen's considering face.

Gwen took half a step back, I wondered if she was fighting the urge to hug me. "Really?" She asked.

Noticing Morgana's head move I looked back to her, locking eyes as she answered. "He's the real hero here." A smug smile crept onto Morgan's lips as we faced each other.

A scoff brought our attention back to our friend. "I don't know what to say." Gwen whimpered slightly.

Shrugging I smiled slightly at both Gwen and her father before saying. "I didn't do anything."

"I'm- I'm grateful to you all." Gwen's father thanked quietly as he grasped his daughter's arms. Looking at his daughter he took a deep breath before stating. "Come on, Gwen." He took Gwen's right hand in his left and led her from the prison. Watching them ascend the steps outside the cell my smile returned.

They were nearing the top of the small flight. "Merlin." Morgana called causing me to turn around to face her. "I wanted you to know, your secret's safe with me." Morgana informed a serious look upon her face.

"My secret?" I questioned disbelievingly, silently wondering which she was on about.

"Merlin, don't pretend. I know what you did." Morgana stated the serious tone sending tingles of fear coursing through me. She had to be talking about my magic, there was no way for her to know my other secret. She'd been so close when I cast that spell, she must have heard or watched my eyes change as mother told me they did.

Gulping the fear down I asked. "You do?"

Without a moment of hesitation Morgana said. "I saw it with my own eyes."

"You did?" I gulped taking a step backwards as the fear built.

Nodding her head Morgan added. "I understand why you don't want anyone to know."

"Well, obviously." I sighed my head shaking to in an effort to convince myself I wasn't dreaming.

"But I won't tell anyone." Morgana whispered a smile breaking into her serious face, Morgana looked very pretty when she smiled. Returned the smile as I was unsure what to say, I sighed internally at the thought of this woman knowing my secret but deciding she'd keep my secret. "You don't mind me talking to you about it?" Morgana questioned.

Shaking my head I stuttered. "Er… no." Morgana smiled at my attempt to talk. "I, I, it's, er… you have no idea how hard it is to keep this hidden." I concluded, happiness swelling within me at the thought of having another person to talk to about a secret.

Morgana giggled before stating. "Well, you can continue to deny it, but I think Gwen's a very lucky woman."

My smile melted, she didn't know my secret, she somehow thought I'd fallen for Gwen, and just like Arthur was very convinced that it was the truth. "Gwen?" I asked just to ensure I'd hear correctly.

Morgana tapped her lips with her right index finger. "It's our secret." Morgana whispered her eyebrows raising. Casting me a knowing smile she walked out of the cell and ascended the steps, looking back into the cell I sighed deeply. Silently I wondered if there would come a time when my gifts were recognised.

Without a plague to cure, this would be my last day of freedom before I needed to return to work for Arthur. I needed to help Gaius deal with the sick that were recovering from the plague now that fresh afanc free water was now available. I smiled at how happy people seemed to be now that the disease did not mean death. I gathered some herbs that Gaius asked me to pick up, he'd concocted a remedy to help flush the bad waters effects from someone's system. I had my suspicions that it was just disease free water but Gaius denied all such accusations.

The night arrived too quickly, before I realised it Gaius and I were sitting down to eat our evening meal. The meal consisted of fish and some of herbs I'd collected. As I chewed my first mouthful of water I thought to myself. Fear widening my eyes I motioned between the plate and my mouth with my utensil. "This fish didn't come from the water, did it?" I questioned.

"Well, where else is it going to come from?" Gaius enquired, looking down I resisted the urge to spit the fish out. "The water's fine now." Gaius reassured, content that Gaius had fully tested it I continued to chew the fish. "That's not your worry. This is the work of a very powerful sorcerer. I only hope you didn't come to her attention." Gaius informed in a scared tone.

"Doubt it." I scoffed, Gaius confused look forced me to explain. "Well no one else seems to appreciate my skills. I just want someone to see me for who I am." I complained.

"One day, Merlin. One day." Gaius speculated removing himself from the table and walking past me to retrieve something.

Looking up at my guardian who had stopped just behind me I asked. "One day what?"

Gaius turned, goblet in hand placing his right hand on my shoulder in a reassuring way he stated. "One day people won't believe what an idiot you were."

Smiling mostly to myself I watched as Gaius sat down at the table to eat once more. "Thanks." I chuckled causing Gaius to laugh. He lifted his goblet towards me, I reached for mine, we clinked them together then both had a drink from our own goblets, before placing them back upon the table.

The eyes were back, I focused upon what Gaius was saying trying to take my thoughts away from who could be looking in. "Make sure you eat it all, you need your strength." Gaius mock scolded pointing to my plate.

Looking at my plate I continued to eat before sighing slightly. The eyes faded, or at least distanced themselves from me. I doubted they'd hear our conversation now. "I still don't know what I'm going to do about both Arthur and Morgana thinking I'm in love with Gwen." I stated in a sigh, shaking my head slightly.

Gaius chuckled. "I don't think there is anything you could do about it." He informed.

"I just hope they stop teasing, it's strange to be accused of liking a girl." I huffed as I picked my goblet up to take another drink.

"We shall see. Would you rather be teased because you're taken with Arthur?" Gaius inquired, in shock I spat the water I'd just poured into my mouth out in a burst. Heat flooded into my checks in embarrassment.

Placing my goblet down violently, I wiped the water from my chin. "Will you stop saying that? I am not taken with him!" I begged.

"Of course you aren't." Gaius chuckled wiping at the few droplets of water that had reached his face.

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I'm so sorry this has taken this long to update. Quite a lot has happened since I last updated, for one I got married and myself and my husband will be moving soon, so there has been a lot of planning and tiring days that have delayed my writing. Please except my apologises.

I hope you enjoyed the chapter, please let me know what you think.