Disclaimer: I do not own Merlin, this is an alternate universe fan fiction in which I have used the characters, places, quotes and story from the BBC TV show which I do not own.

No-One Knew

He pulled the sword out of the stone. His eyes opened slowly and he stared at the sword in awe. It was perfect craftsmanship, the like of which he had never seen before. It shone in the rays of sunlight, the visionary, ethereal gleaming reminding him of Emrys' magic. He could feel his magic in the sword and knew that it would serve him well, for it contained Emrys' promise. The promise of trust and righteousness and friendship.

He was brought out of his stupor by the distinct voice of Leon calling "Long live the King!" and everyone repeating it. A smile graced his face as he looked out to the people. His people. When the voiced died down he remembered his thoughts from before. Merlin. He turned to Emrys, seeing that he had all but disappeared into the shadow of the trees.

"Emrys." he called out, lest the warlock disappear.

The figure stood there a while, studying Arthur before cautiously stepping out of the shade.

Something happened which caused Arthur's words to get stuck in his throat as he stared at Emrys.

"All your people," Emrys said after a moment, tilting his head in the crowd's direction, "They will fight for you."

Arthur blinked, and with a slight shake of his head replied "It is not me they have to fight for. It is Camelot."

"No Arthur. It is you that people love, and you that they will lay down their lives for. I know many a person who would ride into the mouth of hell for you." The added statement was silent, but both of them heard it. And so would I.

"Then into the mouth of hell it is."

Cheers erupted from the crowds once more and the pair turned to look at them again with smiles on their faces. Though as the noise died down, so did the smile on Arthur's face.

"Emrys."

"Yes?"

"Who are you?"

The world seemed to go silent and the forest eerily muted as Emrys looked down at his feet, closing his eyes in defeat. He could not run away from this any longer.

He stepped further into the clearing, rising his head high and coming to peace with himself; letting contentment wash his mind. Slowly, using both hands, he undid the clasp and grasped the hood of the cloak, pulling in down slowly in one smooth motion. The cloak pooled at his feet. He opened his eyes, his face neutral, his raven hair catching the rays of the sun.

All was still.

All that could be heard was the near silent breath of Arthur's: "Merlin"

He slowly opened his eyes, looking straight into the stormy blue orbs with his own cerulean blue eyes.

"When the sword was thrust into the stone, the ancient king foretold that one day, it would be freed again at a time when Camelot needed it most. The man who freed it would unite the land of Albion and rule over the greatest kingdom the world has ever known. That man is you, Arthur. And there was another prophecy. It spoke of Emrys - a young warlock who would guide and protect the Once and Future King. But that's not why I did, and will continue to serve you. I protect you because you are my friend. You have become a brother to me. And that's who I really am - not King of the Druids, or The Greatest Sorcerer to walk the land - I am Emrys and I am Merlin."

Merlin finished with a smile.

Silence ensued.

And Arthur smiled back.

~fin~

A/N: So this it it - the end. Thank you to you all for coming on this journey with me. I hope you enjoyed it as much as I did.