Arthur remained the spokes person as he had a great deal of charisma and the ability to give motivational speeches. But Gwaine was also in demand to speak to interested parties. They had also been approached by the state of California asking for a visit. In some commonwealth countries namely Canada, Australia and New Zealand, the process of copying the UK model had began.

Russia government had, just that morning, asked for talks with the group to discuss use of the new technology. In Africa the use of new technology in the planning stage. S.T.E.C. had been approached to provide PV panels, capable of coping with sand storms, to place large generating panels in the desserts. There were also short term environmentally friendly storage systems under development, with one of the other firms no affiliated with S.T.E.C. which would take over from present batteries, to store the power for use at night. It was hoped that new Hydro electric systems being tested by Eylan would be used throughout South America.

The S.T.E.C. had assured all those wanting to get involved that there would be no restrictions on sharing information, but that each country that had the means, would be expected in return to help the third world countries to implement the changes.

There was very vocal opposition from some quarters, mainly the oil companies and others with strong vested interests, and not all countries were convinced. Agravaine seemed to be behind some of it. In this life he had no connection to Arthur and it was unknown if he too had been having dreams of a past life.

As a general rule America seemed to be adopting a wait and see policy although interest was growing. Many people, throughout the world, who had a more luxurious, high end consumer lifestyle, also seemed less enthusiastic as the changes. This, was in a way, expected as if the plans were fully implemented it would result in many changes need to take place to such lifestyles. Many companies who thought they would lose out also opposed the changes.

Gwaine, Arthur and Leon together with their body guards travelled to Brussels twelve months after the first announcement at the BBC. Merlin insisted in going with them. He was worried that it was all going to well Mordred seemed to have disappeared off the radar.

The group arrived at Brussels to find there was a demonstration taking place. It was large and vocal; Merlin's magic was telling him something was wrong. He had checked the protection spells before they left the UK but he still wasn't happy. For a start he knew the spell would work against knifes and arrow but was unsure if it would stop a high powered gun.

As they arrived at the EU building a shot was fired from the crowd and Gwaine fell to the ground. He had moved behind Arthur as they climbed the steps. The shot had been meant for Arthur. The body guards and police immediately went into action; Arthur and Leon were hurried into the protection of the building. Gwaine's body was surrounded and the police went into the crowd.

The body guards had tried to force Merlin to follow the others into the building but he used his magic to stop them and went to Gwaine's side. As he got there Gwaine was moving, the bullet had hit him but appeared not to have caused too much damage. He was put in an ambulance and taken to a hospital under guard. Merlin was torn. Did he go with Gwaine or stay with the others. In the end he stayed and went to find Arthur and Leon. Gwaine was on his way for treatment but Arthur might still be in danger.

As Merlin allowed himself to be ushered indoors he found Arthur trying to get back to his friends. After the police had checked the area they were taken to the hospital to see Gwaine. The meeting was postponed until another day. When they got to the hospital's emergency department they could hear Gwaine. With that they all breathed a sigh of relief. The bullet had entered into Gwaine's back. The doctors couldn't understand why it was found to be just below the surface of the skin. It should have killed him. Merlin kept quiet but was relieved that his spell had prevented Gwaine from being killed. After he had the bullet removed with local anaesthetic they bandaged him up. He was allowed out the next morning.

With the aid of strong painkillers Gwaine joined the others at the rapidly rearranged meeting, two days later. Hopes appeared high that the E.U would push member states to sign up for the changes. Due to the increased security, the men travelled back the UK as soon as the meeting was over. The gunman was never traced.

Once they were safely back in the UK they went straight to Gwaine's were his wife was waiting. Gaius was there and checked his wound stating himself happy with it. He said the protection spell had saved Gwaine's life so they had Merlin to thank. Gwaine and Arthur then went on to tell Merlin off for not going straight into the safety of the building after Gwaine had been shot. Merlin laughed at them.

"I'm immortal! I was safe, anyway I was shot in World War One and survived." he looked pleased with himself.

"You didn't tell us that." Arthur looked outraged.

"Merlin, my boy you need to be careful if you're hurt and taken to hospital, I'm not sure what the modern day scans would show. You don't want to attract attention to yourself. If they found anything strange they might keep you in and investigate." Gaius sounded concerned.

Arthur went pale "For Christ sake be careful you idiot, we don't want you kept in for months."

Merlin changed the subject and them they left the house leaving Gwaine in the care of his wife.