In my writing, I am exploring a 'what if' scenario that follows the timeline of the original show, but incorporates several notable differences. The first notable change is that Gwen and Merlin are best friends, and their relationship is an essential aspect of the story. Additionally, Gwen is aware of Merlin's magical abilities, and this knowledge will have significant implications for the plot.

Furthermore, as the story progresses, Arthur's character will become progressively darker, reflecting the challenges and conflicts that he faces as a leader. While some readers may find the shift in Arthur's character uncomfortable, it is an essential aspect of the story's development.

Overall, my goal in writing this story is to explore and expand upon the fascinating world of Merlin, while also introducing new elements to make the story fresh and exciting for readers. If you are interested in reading, I encourage you to give it a try, but please be aware of the changes that I have made to the original material.

Prologue

The woman was in a state of confusion as she couldn't recall where she was. All she could remember was a sudden, intense pain that erupted around her head. After that, there was only darkness, like a void that engulfed her.

Suddenly, a familiar voice broke through the silence, "Gwen, it's alright. I am here." Struggling to catch her breath, she turned to see Merlin's silhouette in the shadows next to her. He seemed to be in the same state of pain as she was.

As her memory slowly began to return, she recalled that Merlin had set out to find her before the darkness consumed her. Despite the agony in her head, she felt a sense of relief, knowing that she was not alone in this dark and unfamiliar place.

"Where are we?" She asked curiously. As she stretched her arm to touch the back of her head, she felt a throbbing sensation and realised that her hand was covered in blood when she pulled it away. She looked around, trying to get a sense of her surroundings, but her vision was blurred, adding to her confusion and anxiety.

"For once, I do not know. Merlin replied. "What's the last thing you remembered?"

"I remember you coming to see me, but then nothing," Gwen replied. She looked around the surroundings, hoping to identify any familiar landmarks or objects that could give them a clue about their location.

"That's all I remember too," Merlin commented as he tried and failed to move.

"Merlin!" Gwen gasped trying to stand to reach her friend but couldn't as dizziness took over. She desperately tried to stand up to reach her friend, Merlin, but her legs gave out beneath her. Gasping for air, she managed to use her hand to support her body as she slowly slid across the floor towards Merlin, who was a few feet away.

"I'm okay, Gwen," Merlin said, his voice soft and gentle as he reached out to place a comforting hand on her shoulder. He could feel her trembling slightly under his touch, her fear almost palpable in the air around them. "We just need to rest for a little while," he continued, his eyes scanning their surroundings for any signs of danger. "We need to regain our strength so that we can find a way out of here."

Merlin's words seemed to have little effect on Gwen, who remained tense and anxious beside him. "Or at least until Arthur finds us," he added, hoping to reassure her that they were not alone in this.

Gwen's response was a bitter whisper, her voice almost a hiss as she spoke Arthur's name. "You give him too much credit," she spat out, her eyes flashing with anger and frustration. "He's not going to come for me. He doesn't care."

Merlin felt a pang of sadness at her words, but he knew that Gwen was simply scared and upset. He didn't blame her for lashing out. Instead, he simply nodded his head in understanding and squeezed her shoulder gently. "We'll get out of here, Gwen," he said firmly. "I promise."