Disclaimer: I don't own Merlin or Ancient Relics, they belong to BBC and TeenMuggle.

TeenMuggle has given me permission to write this story that takes place during theirs.

Summary: The day after Merlin tells Harry, Ron and Hermione about him being a real druid, not a descendant of one, Kingsley finds a spell that would show them how to defeat Morgana. That spell would result in the entire Order watching the show Merlin, and uncovering all the secrets Merlin has been keeping for centuries.

~o0o~

Merlin sighed as he ate his breakfast halfheartedly, but the stares he kept feeling were distracting him. He glanced up and saw Harry, Ron and Hermione shooting him looks with slight wonder in them. He knew they needed time to get over the fact that he was a druid and possibly related to himself. Which made him want to laugh every time he heard it. He wanted so badly to tell them the entire truth, but some instinct kept telling him it was not time yet. He sighed again and pushed his food away, his appetite gone. He grabbed his book bag and was about to go visit Aithusa, when he noticed McGonagall heading straight toward them with a very serious and slightly hopeful face.

She stopped when she was directly in front of them and, leaning forward so that no one else could hear, she said, "There is an emergency meeting in my office. Kingsley says he has found something for our," she glanced around nervously, "little problem. I advise the four of you to hurry with your breakfast and head on up as soon as you are finished. This could be the answer we have been hoping for." And with that, she spun on her heel and almost sprinted out of the Great Hall.

Harry, Ron, Hermione and Merlin looked at each other briefly before jumping up and rushing after McGonagall. They caught up with her just as she reached the stone Gargoyle. When the password was said they climbed up the spiral staircase and entered pandemonium.

The entire Weasley family was there, along with Lupin, Kingsley, Professors Flitwick, Sprout and Slughorn, Hagrid, Aberforth Dumbledore, Hestia Jones, Dedalus Diggle, Tonks, Neville and Luna. Everyone except Neville and Luna were shouting. They appeared to be arguing over whatever Kingsley brought them here for. None of them even noticed when the five of them walked in, that is until Professor McGonagall grew impatient with all the yelling.

"SILENCE!" She shouted, causing everyone to cease their yelling immediately. After all, to all but Aberforth and Hagrid, she had taught them and she was still regarded as their teacher. One they all knew not to mess with. "What is going on here?" She continued in a slightly more controlled voice.

Merlin shut the door behind him as the five of them walked over to the table and assorted seats that were prepared for the meeting. Once they were seated, the rest of the Order settled down as well. McGonagall looked meaningfully at Kingsley, demanding to know why he called the emergency meeting. Kingsley, noticing everyone's eyes were upon him, stood up and addressed all those in attendance.

"Last night, after we were told the horrible news by Martin," Merlin shifted in his seat as all the eyes flickered to him, "I went back to the Ministry to search for anything we might have missed concerning the Old Religion. I did not find anything," several people groaned, but Kingsley ignored them, "I did, however, find this." From his robe pocket he pulled out a small and clearly old book. It looked as though it was originally red in color, but after years of collecting dust and grime, it looked more of a dark brown. The pages were frayed and brittle. "I found this book deep within the Department of Mysteries." Harry flinched, though no one but Merlin noticed. "It was in an unmarked chest that was in an empty room. I only found it by accident because there was no door. My hand brushed a wall and it transported me into the room. When I opened the chest I noticed that it was empty of all but one thing, this book. When I began to look through the book, I noticed that most of the contents were written in the Old Language. However, there was one spell that was not." He set the book down on the table and turned to a page near the back of the book. The pages crackling through every turn.

When he reached the correct page, he ran his finger over the spell and a look of hope came across his face. "This spell, monstrant viam ad Victoria, which means "show the way to victory", is a spell that shows us how to defeat our enemy."

Everyone started to talk all at once. How could there be a spell like that and no one having heard of it? If a spell like that was possible, than the first war against Voldemort would have ended before it barely begun. Almost everyone was sure it was a dud spell. After all, it does sound impossible.

There was only one person who was not participating in the discussions taking place. Merlin had pale drastically when the spell was mentioned. He knew that spell; it was invented around 800 years ago. It was fairly popular too. People used it to learn how to defeat Quidditch teams, academic rivals, and most of all, their enemies on the battlefield. It was a great help to the side of good, until their enemies started to use the spell against them. In the end, the spell did far more bad than good as no one could win. Merlin had destroyed all evidence of the spell, knowing that the knowledge, when not written down, would fade out and would soon be forgotten. Obviously he had missed one piece of evidence. There was another reason he paled as well. This spell tells you how to defeat your enemy by watching someone's past. If the only way to destroy your enemy is through someone else, the spell will show you that person's memories. If Kinsley were to actually perform this spell, then he was sure that all his secrets would come out in the open today. And there was no stopping it.

Merlin was so lost in thought that he almost missed it when Kingsley finally grew impatient. "Enough!" He shouted, startling everyone out of their yelling, or in Merlin's case, thoughts. He glared at everyone and drew his wand. "We are going to perform this spell and it will work. Also, since I think we will be here a while," he waved his wand and the table disappeared, replaced with three large sofas and a few squishy arm chairs. "I think we should all be comfortable." Everyone grumbled a bit, but didn't argue. Merlin, Harry, Ron, Hermione, Neville and Luna all chose to sit in the chairs while everyone else sat on the sofas. Once everyone was nice and comfortable, Kingsley pointed his wand toward the wall next to the door and adjacent to the furniture. "Monstrant viam ad Victoria."

A beam of light soared out of Kingsley's wand and struck the wall, making the wall glow. The glow spread until it covered the entire wall, then it seemed to solidify. It no longer looked like it glowed; it looked more like a white screen was attached to the stone. The lights in the room disappeared, causing several people to cry out. The screen then began to form an image, like in a muggle movie theatre.

"Now," Kingsley sighed in satisfaction, "we will watch."

And they did.

Merlin was making his way over a sandy hill.

Eyes widened as they snapped toward the pale warlock.

"Martin?" Lupin asked.

Merlin swallowed. He knew this was going to happen, but he will not tell them who he is until the viewing does. "I have lied to you about several things about me. I have already told Harry, Ron and Hermione this, but I am not a descendant of druids, I am a druid." Several people gasped, Weasley twins shouted 'Wicked!' and everyone else's eyes widened. The only ones unfazed was the trio. "I know how to use the Old Religion to its fullest extent and I hate to use my wand. I am also not 200 years old." Harry, Ron and Hermione looked at him in shock. They didn't know that! "There are more secrets that I did not reveal, but I know that this spell will show you." He finished telling them. The feeling of the Old Religion was gone, it was as though it too gave up trying to stop this.

Everyone still looked at him for several more minutes before, realizing he won't reveal anything else, turned back to the screen.

Merlin had arrived in Camelot. He walked along the market place, taking everything in, a look of amazement on his face.

"Where is that?" Arthur asked, wonder on his face as he saw the early times of muggles.

Merlin sighed sadly as he looked at what was his home. It still is his home, no matter how much time passes. He missed it dearly. "That was a kingdom that no longer exists."

Everyone heard the sadness in his voice and they looked away, feeling awkward.

Uther was addressing the crowds.

"Who is that?" The twins asked.

Merlin's jaw tightened. "A tyrant." He spat, making those near him scoot away.

Let this serve as a lesson to all. This man, Thomas James Collins, is judged guilty of conspiring to use enchantments and magic.

Everyone looked confused. If that was a muggle, how does he know about magic? And why is he making it seem like it was illegal?

And, pursuant to the laws of Camelot,

Everyone gasped, Flitwick even fell out of his chair. They all swung around to Martin, their eyes demanding he explain.

"What does he mean when he says Camelot?" McGonagall asked, her lips white.

Merlin sighed. "It will be explained."

No one was happy about this. That man said Camelot, as if that was where they were. Maybe he was just ruling under the same laws Camelot was under during it's time?

I, Uther Pendragon,

Hermione, Flitwick and Minerva yelled in shock, causing everyone to jump. Flitwick looked like he was about to pass out, Minerva was clutching her heart and Hermione looked to be hyperventilating. Everyone was looking at them in worry.

"U-Uther P-Pendragon?" Minerva said breathlessly.

"Who is he Minerva?" Molly asked.

It was Flitwick who answered. "Uther Pendragon was the King who started what was known as the Great Purge. The Great Purge was the most devastating event to happen in wizarding history. Uther rounded up all people he suspected of using magic and had them killed. It did not matter whether they were man, woman or child. He killed them." Everyone looked sick at this. He was like the muggle version of Voldemort, except worse. No one can stop a King. "This was before the Statue of Secrecy so everyone knew about magic. He was the King of Camelot and a tyrant."

"So, if that man," Hestia pointed toward the man on the screen, frozen while they talked, "is who he says he is, that means this is really Camelot?"

Everyone again looked at Martin, but he was looking at the frozen Uther with a hard face.

"When he said he was not 200 years old, he wasn't kidding." Fred tried to joke, but all it did was make the atmosphere even more tense.

They turned back to the screen, questions racing through everyone's minds.

have decreed that such practices are banned on penalty of death.

They winced, remembering Flitwick's tale of the Great Purge.

I pride myself as a fair and just king, but for the crime of sorcery there is but one sentence I can pass.'

Morgana looks down from her window.

Harry shouted, making everyone snap their heads in his direction. Merlin just looked at Morgana with a sad expression. This was the Morgana he knew and missed. What happened to her?

"Harry, dear, what happened?" Molly fussed. Harry was staring at Morgana with a frozen expression.

"T-that's Morgana!" He managed to say.

They all looked at the image of the sad woman, hardly believing that it was the same woman who caused such destruction and pain.

Neville hesitated before asking, "But, why does she look so sad? Wouldn't she enjoy that?"

Others nodded, agreeing with what Neville said. Why would she be sad? She is evil, she only cared about herself.

A quiet voice broke through peoples murmurings. "She wasn't always like that."

They turned and saw Martin, still staring at the frozen image of Morgana, his eyes sad.

"What do you mean?" Diggle asked.

Martin sighed. "She wasn't always evil. She used to be a sweet and kind woman. Someone anyone would be glad to call friend."

Everyone looked doubtful at this, but then again, Martin appeared to have lived during her time, making him know her better than they could ever imagine.

"But then, why?" Kingsley asked.

Martin sighed, again. "Fear, hate and betrayal can really change a person." He left it at that, leaving everyone to come up with their own assumptions.

Uther then has the man beheaded. Morgana looked away along with the many of the crowd.

Most people looked away, too. Killing someone in battle is one thing, but having someone beheaded is another.

'When I came to this land, this kingdom was mired in chaos, but with the people's help magic was driven from the realm.So I declare a festival to celebrate twenty years since the Great Dragon

"The Great Dragon?" Hagrid asked, excitement in his voice. (AN: I can't do Hagrid speech, sorry.)

Martin looked at him with a small smile. "You remember when I told you of the only other Old Religion dragon besides Aithusa?" Hagrid and everyone else nodded. "He was known as the Great Dragon. A very old, wise and powerful dragon. His name is Kilgharrah."

They nodded, remembering him mentioning the name. Most were excited to see this Great Dragon, while others (Molly) were worried the dragon would hurt Martin.

was captured and Camelot freed from the evil of sorcery.Let the celebrations begin.

"Why did he think magic was evil?" Ron asked Martin.

Martin shook his head. "Personal reasons."

A woman who they all knew to be Mary Collins appeared.

'There is only one evil in this land, and it is not magic! It is you! With your hatred and your ignorance! You killed my son!

The woman received sympathetic looks from the group. They knew what she was going through.

But I promise you, before these celebrations are over, you will share my tears. An eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth, a son for a son.'

Merlin tensed, causing everyone to look at him. They saw he had a very dark look on his face as he watched the woman. Even after all these years, he does not take a threat to Arthur lightly.

'Seize her!' Uther shouted.

Then Mary Collin screeched words of magic and disappeared in a flash of smoke.

The Order had wide eyes as they saw her use the Old Religion. They only saw Voldemort and Martin use it, but it seemed different to them seeing someone as old as that woman use it with no hesitation. The times really did change.

Merlin then walks through the castle and sees the guard.

'Where would I find Gaius, the- the court physician?' asked Merlin.

Ron was about to ask who Gaius was, but stopped when he saw Martin's sad face. Right, all the people Martin knew are dead. That had to be really depressing.

The guard pointed Merlin in his direction. Merlin knocks on the door and enters Gaius' quarters and looks around.

Hermione and Flitwick looked in awe at the room. It was fascinating!

'Hello?' Merlin calls out.

He wanders into the room.

'Hello? Gaius?' calls out Merlin.

Gaius is standing on a ladder in a bookcase and he looks around then falls off the ladder.

Several people gasped. That poor old man! There was no way Martin would be able to save him. It happened too quickly.

Merlin's eyes glow gold

Several people who never saw Martin use the Old Religion looked awed. When his eyes turned gold they seemed to radiate power.

as Gaius' falls slow and a bed comes hurtling towards him which the old man lands softly on.

They gaped at Martin. Time was supposed to be impossible to bend, and without a spell?! That was even more impossible! It made them wonder…

How powerful was he?

'What did you just do?' asked Gaius.

'Erm...' said Merlin.

'Tell me!' demanded the old man.

'I, I, I have no idea what happened.' Merlin attempted to lie.

Several people looked at him, incredulous.

"How could you-," Fred started.

"Lie so badly then-," George continued.

"And yet be so good-,"

"At it now?" They both finished.

Martin looked sad for a moment before he answered. "I have had centuries to practice."

Everyone looked away, now uncomfortable.

'If anyone had seen that...' said Gaius.

Several people turned pale at the thought.

'Er, no! That, that was, that was nothing to do with me. That, that was...'stuttered Merlin.

'I know what it was! I just want to know where you learned how to do it!' said Gaius.

"Um," Ron said, confused. "Shouldn't he be reporting you?" He noticed the dark looks they were sending him. "N-not that I want him to," he hurriedly said, "but if magic is illegal, wouldn't he be going against the law?" They blinked, he was right!

Merlin started chuckling, making everyone look at him like he was crazy. "Gaius would never report a sorcerer, unless they were going to hurt someone. After all, he used to study magic too."

Molly, Minerva, Hermione, Ginny and Luna smiled. He sounded like a nice old man.

'Nowhere,' said Merlin.

'So how is it you know magic?' asked Gaius suspiciously.

'I don't.' said Merlin.

Martin got many raised eyebrows at this. He smirked, they were in for a surprise.

"Actually, I wasn't lying." They looked at him like he was crazy.

"Of course you were." Hermione said matter-of-factly. "You just used magic, therefore, you know magic."

Merlin chuckled again. "Actually Hermione, you're wrong."

She looked flabbergasted, as did everyone else in the room. "I had no idea how to use my magic, it was instinctive." Flitwick looked like he was about to start questioning him so he hurried on. "You will find out why in just a minute."

He huffed.

'Where did you study? Answer me!' growled Gaius.

'I, I've never studied magic or, or been taught.' Merlin said.

'Are you lying to me, boy?' said Gaius.

'What do you want me to say? 'asked Merlin desperately.

'The truth!' said Gaius.

'I was born like this!' said Merlin.

'That's impossible!

They looked at the screen in confusion. Of course it was not impossible! They were all born with magic!

Merlin smiled softly, thinking how much he hated to be 'one of a kind'. "For the Old Religion, it was unheard of. No one had been born with their magic like I was. Their magic developed when they were older, much like yourselves. I, however, was able to use my magic constantly throughout my whole life." He chuckled as a memory came to mind. "In fact, my mother once told me that a few hours after I was born I was levitating the pots all around the kitchen. Scared her half to death."

Fred and George chuckled while everyone else stared at him. If it was unheard of, than how come Martin is the only one like that? Why is he so different.

Who are you?' said Gaius.

Merlin stiffened, catching Harry's notice. "I want you all to know, that when you learn my real name, do not treat me any different." He said.

"Wait, your name isn't really Martin?" Kingsley asked. He shook his head.

'Oh, erm...' said Merlin.

[pulls off backpack]

'I have this letter.' Said Merlin.

'I, I don't have my glasses.' Said Gaius.

'I'm Merlin.' Said Merlin.

Time seemed to freeze. The occupants in the room sat frozen in their seats, their eyes wide open, mouths hanging down. They could only stare at the legendary Warlock who smiled sheepishly. It was rather uncomfortable, but over the years in Camelot, he grew used to people looking at him.

The silence continued until it was finally broken by a scream.

"WHAT?!" Hermione shrieked, her eyes bulging out of their sockets.

"Y-you're Merlin?!" Harry asked, feeling as though he were about to faint. Merlin nodded, bracing himself for the explosion.

And an explosion it was. Everyone was shouting, Slughorn had fainted and several others looked to be going the same way.

"No way!" The twins.

"I can't believe this!" Hestia Jones.

"This is so exciting!" Diggle.

"But you are just a boy!" Of course, Molly.

"Why didn't you say anything?" Harry.

"Blimey!" Ron.

"Why would you keep this a secret?" Kingsley.

Kingsley's question seemed to be louder than the others because silence fell once it was said. Everyone was looking at Merlin as if he were a God, but he could see the hurt and impatience in their eyes.

He sighed. "I could not tell you who I really was at first because you would not have believed me. After all, I am thirteen hundred years old. Something that should be impossible, but nonetheless it is true. After that, I could not tell you because the Old Religion was forbidding me to."

"What do you mean?" Harry asked, hurt still shinning in his eyes.

Merlin looked around, uncomfortable. This information would probably freak them out a little bit. "Because I am a creature of the Old Religion." Hagrid's eyes widened while everyone else just looked confused. "I am the only one of my kind. Because of the prophecy, I was born with the power of the Old Religion, making me, well, not exactly mortal." Their eyes widened at the implications that statement brought. Merlin cleared his throat. "You will learn more as you watch."

'Hunith's son?' said Gaius.

Merlin flinched at his mother's name. He hadn't heard it since Camelot.

' Yes!' said Merlin sounding relieved.

'But you're not meant to be here till Wednesday!' said Gaius.

'It is Wednesday.' Said Merlin slowly.

Fred, George, Luna, Neville, Ron, Harry and Hermione all laughed while the others looked amused.

'Ah. Right, then. You better put your bag in there.' Said Gaius, pointing to a door.

'You, you won't say anything about, erm...' said Merlin sounding scared.

'No. Although, Merlin, I should say thank you.' Said Gaius.

Merlin looked over at Camelot and smiled at the amazing view.

"Wow." Was muttered around the room. Merlin smiled, Camelot really was a beautiful place.

Gaius was seen reading the letter, then Huinith's voice over began. 'My dear Gaius,

Merlin took a deep breath, fighting back the tears he had been holding in since Gaius was introduced. He hadn't heard his mother's voice since she died. It was just as painful to hear Gaius's.

I turn to you for I feel lost and alone and don't know who to trust.It is every mother's fate to think her child is special, and yet I would give my life that Merlin were not so.' Hunith is shown writing the letter.

A tear escaped down Merlin's cheek. He almost forgot what she looked like.

Ours is a small village and he is so clearly at odds with people here that, if he were to remain, I fear what would become of him.He needs a hand to hold, a voice to guide, someone that might help him find a purpose for his gifts.

Merlin slightly smiled. A purpose he did find. He missed that purpose more than anything. He missed Arthur.

I beg you, if you understand a mother's love for her son, keep him safe, and may God save you both.'

The scene cut to Morgana and Uther.

Everyone stiffened. Even though Merlin said she didn't start out evil, they would have to see it before they believed it.

'Morgana.' Asks Uther.

'Yes?' she says.

'What is it? Why are you not joining us at the feast?' asks the king.

'I just don't think chopping someone's head off is cause for celebration.

Eyes darkened. She had no problem with it now. Though it was a little shocking that she didn't always think that way.

Merlin just sighed, still feeling guilty.

That poor mother.'

'It was simple justice for what he'd done.' Said Uther coldly.

'To whom? He practiced some magic, he didn't hurt anyone.' Said Morgana.

'You were not around twenty years ago, you have no idea what it was like.' Said Uther.

'How long are you going to keep punishing people for what happened then?' asked Morgana.

'Until they realize there is no room for magic in my kingdom!You will be with me when I greet Lady Helen.'

'I told you! I want no part in these celebrations!' said Morgana.

'I'm your guardian!

Merlin's eyes narrowed. He was so much more than that!

I expect you to do as I ask. If you show me no respect at least respect our finest singer'

'You know, the more brutal you are, the more enemies you will create!' said Morgana.

Merlin clenched his jaw. It seems even back then she was foretelling the future while awake.

The scene cut to Lady Helen's campsite where Lady Helen was humming. She hears a noise and becomes scared.

'Hello? Gregory?' she called for her guard.

'Lady Helen.' Says Gregory.

'Is all well?' the Lady asks.

'Yes, ma'am. With luck, we should reach Camelot late tomorrow.' Says Gregory.

'That's good.' Said Lady Helen.

'I'll be outside if you need me.' the guard informs his lady.

More noises were heard. Gregory draws his sword.

'Who's there? Who's there?' the guard calls out.

"I don't like this," Ron moaned. "I don't like this at all."

He was promptly shushed.

Lady Helen continues to hum but stops when more noises appear. She looks to the tent flap and sees Mary Collins face looking in at her.

'Akwele seo magdp. Akwele seo magdp. Akwele seo magdp.' Mary Collins curses the voodoo doll while stabbing it, causing Lady Helen to feel the affects as well. She falls over, dead.

Molly, Hermione, Luna and Ginny had tears in their eyes. That poor woman.

Others were horrified at the use of magic like that. It never really occurred to them that the Old Religion could be used for evil just as it can be used for Good. Just like their magic.

Mary grabs her necklace and sits at the desk.

'Ghefrolinz grimpoxin kouata.' She chants another spell. And turns into Lady Helen.

Hermione, Flitwick, Slughorn and Minerva all looked amazed. They could change their appearance like that? Without a potion? That would be much easier and better than polyjuice potion.

Merlin is sleeping when a voice called, 'Merlin! Merlin!'

Several people jumped at the voice. Merlin smirked. He knew they knew Aithusa, but Kilgharrah was completely different.

Merlin wakes up and enters Gaius' chambers.

'I got you water. You didn't wash last night.' Said Gaius.

'Sorry.' Said Merlin.

'Help yourself to breakfast.' Said Gaius.

Merlin sits down with Gaius to some water porridge.

Gaius waited till Merlin had sat down then he knocked a jug of water over. Merlin instinctively froze it with his eyes flashing golden.

Everyone gaped at him. His magic really was instinctive! That was amazing!

Gaius gasped and the two looked at each other before looking back to the suspended water and bucket. It then falls.

'How did you do that? Did you incant a spell in your mind.' Asked Gaius.

'I don't know any spells.' Said Merlin.

"Not then at least." Merlin smiled.

'So what did you do? There must be something.' Said Gaius.

'It just happens.' Said Merlin.

Merlin began to clear up the mess.

'Well, we better keep you out of trouble. You can help me until I find some paid work for you.Here.' Said Gaius.

Gaius placed a small bottle and a sac on the table.

'Hollyhock and Feverfew for Lady Percival, and this is for Sir Olwin. He's as blind as a weevil, so warn him not to take it all at once.'

'Okay,' said Merlin.

'And here.' Said Gaius placing a sandwich on the table.

'Off you go. And Merlin! I need hardly tell you that the practice of any form of enchantments will get you killed.' Said Gaius grimly. Merlin nods before leaving.

"It was really that bad?" Bill asked. He had been quiet for so long everyone forgot he was there.

Merlin nodded. He didn't want to explain how everyday for ten years he was terrified that someone would discover his magic.

Merlin eats as he walks to Sir Olwin's quarters. He knocks on the door and old, blind, squinty Sir Olwin answers.

'Erm, I brought you your medicine,' said Merlin. He handed the medicine to the blind man.

Sir Olwin pops the cork and begins drinking.

'Oh, and Gaius said don't drink it all at...' said Merlin too late.

'I'm sure it's fine.' Said Merlin. He then hurries away.

"Yes! Run away from the scene of the crime!" Fred and George yelled dramatically, causing everyone to laugh at them.

Merlin is now crossing the training ground where he comes across Arthur bullying his current servant.

'Where's the target?' mocked Arthur.

Merlin gasped as pain sliced through his heart. He missed that voice so much it was like a constant ache in his stomach. He missed the concerned glances thrown his way as he eagerly drank in the sight of Arthur.

Arthur's gang laughed at the prince.

'There, Sir?' said Morris.

'It's into the sun?' said Arthur.

'But, it's not that bright.' Said Morris.

'A bit like you, then?' retorted Arthur cruelly.

Merlin gave a breathy laugh. That was so very Arthur! The others, particularly the woman, looked at the (unknown to them) prince with dislike. How could Merlin laugh at something like that?

'I'll put the target on the other end, shall I, Sir?' said Morris.

Morris begins to carry the target to the other side of the training ground.

'Teach him a lesson. Go on, boy.' growled the knight called Sir Jamieson.

'This'll teach him.' said Arthur.

Yeah.' Encouraged Sir Amos.

'He he. Teach him a lesson.' Laughed Sir Jamieson.

Arthur throws a dagger at the target the servant was still carrying.

'Hey! Hang on!' said Morris.

'Don't stop!' laughed Arthur.

Arthur received glares from everyone but Merlin who didn't seem to hear what was being said. He only looked at Arthur like a blind man would upon seeing the sun for the first time.

Morris takes a few steps back.

'Here?' asked Morris.

Gwen opens an upper window and shakes a rug frowning as she watches Arthur bullying the serving boy.

'I told you to keep moving!' called out Arthur.

Arthur threw another dagger.

'Come on! Run!' calls Arthur.

Morris shuffles along trying to carry the large board of wood and Arthur throws more daggers.

'Do you want some moving target practice?' asks Arthur.

Morris drops the target which rolls to Merlin's feet. Merlin puts a foot on it so Morris can't pick it up.

The women smile at Merlin for helping, but frowned when he didn't even acknowledge them. What was so important about that arrogant prat?

'Hey, come on, that's enough.' Said Merlin

'What?' asked Arthur, incredulously.

'You've had your fun, my friend.' Said Merlin.

'Do I know you?' asked Arthur coming towards Merlin.

'Er, I'm Merlin,' responded Merlin holding out a hand to Arthur for the prince to take.

'So I don't know you.' Arthur stated.

"How rude." Molly huffed. Merlin wanted to glare at her. She had no idea what she was talking about!

'No.' admitted Merlin.

'Yet you called me "friend."' Arthur said.

'That was my mistake,' agreed Merlin.

'Yes, I think so,' Arthur thinking that things were going his way.

'Yeah. I'd never have a friend who could be such an ass,' said Merlin.

Everyone burst out laughing. They never heard Merlin like this! He was always so serious and whatnot. They didn't know he had a sharp tongue!

Merlin starts walking away.

Arthur snorts, 'or I one who could be so stupid.'

Merlin gave another breathy laugh. The first of many times Arthur called him stupid! He gained some weird looks for that laugh. After all, who would laugh when someone was calling you stupid?

Merlin stops walking.

'Tell me, Merlin, do you know how to walk on your knees?' asked Arthur.

'No.' said Merlin.

Would you like me to help you?' asked Arthur.

"He better not." Minerva growled, feeling protective. It slipped her mind that Merlin was much older than her. Once someone became a Gryffindor, they were her cubs, no matter what age.

'I wouldn't if I were you,' retorted Merlin in a threatening voice.

Arthur laughed,

"Um, you just threatened him, and he laughs?" Charlie asked, incredulous.

Merlin laughed. "Trust me, he had a right to."

It didn't make sense to them, but they knew they would get their answer by watching.

'Why? What are you going to do to me?' asked the arrogant Prince.

'You have no idea,' said Merlin in a mysterious voice.

'Be my guest! Come on! Come on! Come oooooon.' Arthur said.

Merlin looks and just takes a swing at him.

Several people winced at the position Merlin found himself in. It looked painful.

Arthur twists Merlin's arm behind his back.

Gwen cringes at Merlin's position.

'I'll have you thrown in jail for that,' said Arthur.

'What, who do you think you are? The King?' asked Merlin.

Merlin chuckled. "I had no idea…"

Everyone ignored it, for now.

'No. I'm his son, Arthur.' Arthur responded.

Everyone gasped. There was no way that that arrogant, rude man was the greatest King the world has ever known! It could not be possible! And yet, it would explain Merlin's behavior toward him. It is said that Merlin and Arthur shared a bond so strong, they were closer than brothers. They were known as each other's halve. Two sides of the same coin.

Merlin chuckled at their expressions. He knew how they felt. After all, he was the one to change Arthur into the man he was known for today.

"That's King Arthur?!" Hermione spluttered. Merlin nodded, his smile not leaving his face. "But, he doesn't sound anything like the Arthur of Legend!"

Merlin chuckled again. "To every end, there is a beginning. The Arthur of Legend you all know did very much exist, but he wasn't always like that. He had a beginning, one where he was rude, arrogant and selfish. But over time, he turned into the man of legend, in the end." He smiled, prouder of Arthur than he could ever hope to say.

Arthur takes Merlin out at the knees. Merlin is escorted down to the cells by guards.

Merlin burst out laughing, making the others look at him strangely. Who would laugh when they get thrown in jail?

Merlin settled down and, seeing the looks, felt the need to explain. "Sorry, it's just that after about a few years in Camelot, the guards never even threw me into the jail cell. I got into trouble a lot, and everyone knew me. So when the King or Arthur told the guard to throw me in jail they would walk up to me and say, 'alright Merlin, you know what to do' and I would walk down to the cells on my own, even locking the door too. I even had my own personal cell." He finished, sounding proud.

Everyone looked at him like he was crazy. Fred and George though, were looking at him like he was a God sent from above.

Mary Collins disguised as the beautiful Lady Helen crosses the drawbridge and enter Camelot.Mary Collins' true reflection appears in the puddle.

"Wait," Flitwick squeaked, "why did her reflection show who she really is?" Everyone else was curious as well.

"You all know the saying, 'a mirror doesn't lie', correct?" They nodded. "Well it's true. When you change your appearance, you don't change your soul, so your reflection will show your true self as it can never lie."

They nodded in understanding.

Mary Collins enters the throne room to where Uther and some of his court members are currently.

'Lady Helen. Thank you so much for coming to sing at our celebrations,' said Uther graciously.

'The pleasure's all mine,' said Mary Collins.

'How was your journey?' asked Uther.

Mary Collins faked a sigh, 'Oh, the time it took, Sire.' She said softly.

Uther took one of her hands and kissed it, 'Well, it's always worth the wait.'

'It will be,' said Mary Collins obviously thinking of her plot to kill Arthur.

Merlin narrowed his eyes.

Merlin is in his cell sleeping on the straw floor.

'Merlin, Merlin,' the mysterious voice calls.

People jumped again.

"Alright! What keeps saying your name?" Harry asked, frustrated. This was like the basilisk incident all over again.

Merlin smirked but did not answer.

Merlin wakes and hears the voice coming from the floor underneath him jumps up away from the voice calling to him.

'Merlin,' the voice calls again.

Merlin moves towards the floor putting his head close to ground to see what the voice was.

'Merlin,' said Gaius in surprise.

The cell door opens and Gaius steps in leaving the guards behind him.

Gaius sighed at his young ward, 'You never cease to amaze me! The one thing that someone like you should do is keep your head down, and what do you do? You behave like an idiot.'

'I'm sorry,' said Merlin.

'You're lucky. I managed to pull a few strings to get you released,' said Gaius.

'Oh, thank you! Thank you!' Merlin all but shouted enthusiastically.

Gaius frowns at Merlin for his excitement.

'I won't forget this.' Merlin vowed.

'Well, there is a small price to pay,' said Gaius an evil glint in his eyes.

Merlin is now in the stocks being pelted by fruit and looking like he was thoroughly enjoying himself.

Everyone, including Merlin, burst out laughing. Merlin looked ridiculous!

Merlin, still chuckling, said, "Ah, the first of many times I entered the stocks." Which, of course caused everyone to laugh harder.

'Oh, no,' said Merlin his statement at odds with the way he was beaming at the town children.

"You seem to be enjoying it." Ginny giggled.

Gaius laughs at the boy.

'Thanks,' Merlin rolls his eyes at his Great Uncle.

The children leave and Gwen approaches Merlin.

'I'm Guinevere,

Shocked gasps escaped everyone as they looked upon the future Queen of Camelot. Merlin smiled softly, thinking of Gwen. He missed her dearly.

"Didn't Guinevere betray Arthur by having an affair with Lancelot?" Bill, the history major, asked.

Merlin stiffened and a growl climbed up his throat. Bill flinched at the glare Merlin sent him.

"Gwen would never hurt Arthur like that! She was the kindest women you would ever know! She loved Arthur with all her heart, she would never betray him willingly!"

While everyone looked away, ashamed, four people were pondering the 'willingly'. Why would Merlin say that? Unless, she betrayed him unwillingly.

but most people call me Gwen. I'm the Lady Morgana's maid,' said Gwen.

"Queen Guinevere was a maid? To Morgana?" Hermione asked, shocked beyond belief. How come no one knew of this? Why was history so wrong? How could it be wrong?

Merlin nodded, anticipating their reactions when he gets appointed Arthur's servant.

'Right. I'm Merlin.' Merlin introduced himself by doing his best whilst in the stocks to shake hands with the once and future queen. Although, most people just call me Idiot.'

'No, no, no. I saw what you did. It was so brave,' said Gwen.

'It was stupid,' said Merlin.

'Well, I'm glad you walked away. You weren't going to beat him.' said Gwen.

Merlin snorted, 'Oh, I...I can beat him.' said Merlin confidently.

'You think? Because you don't look like one of these big, muscle-y kind of fellows,' said Gwen.

'Thanks,' said Merlin.

'No! No, I'm sure you're stronger than you look. It's just, erm...Arthur's one of these real rough, tough, save the world kind of men, and...well...' Gwen trailed off.

'What?' Merlin demanded.

'You don't look like that.' Gwen said.

Merlin motions for Gwen to move closer to him where he whispers, 'I'm in disguise.'

Some people chuckled, others looked amused.

Gwen laughs, 'Well, it's great you stood up to him.'

'What? You think so?' asks Merlin sounding pleased.

Fred and George waggled their eyebrows at Merlin. "Did you have a little crush Merlin?" They laughed

Merlin rolled his eyes and said, "She was like my sister, though from what I understand, she did have a crush on me for a while."

Their eyes widened. They were only joking! They didn't know Gwen actually had a crush on Merlin! That would make things awkward with Arthur.

'Arthur's a bully, and everyone thought you were a real hero,' said Gwen.

'Oh, yeah?' sounding pleased.

Gwen nods, 'Mm-hmm.'

The children re-approach with more rotten fruit.

'Oh, excuse me, Guinevere. My fans are waiting.' Merlin laughs

"Fans?" Lupin snorted.

and Gwen moves away before she too gets pelted with fruit.

Merlin is now back in Gaius' chambers where he sits down to eat.

'Do you want some vegetables with that?' asks Gaius.

Merlin smiled as everyone chuckled. He missed his uncle's sense of humor.

Merlin snorts, 'I know you're still angry with me.'

'Your mother asked me to look after you,' said Gaius.

'Yes.' Said Merlin interested.

'What did your mother say to you about your gifts?' asked the old man.

Everyone leaned forward, eager to find out more about Merlin's powers.

'That I was special.' Was all Merlin said.

'You are special. The likes of which I have never seen before,' agreed Gaius.

'What do you mean?' asked Merlin looking like Gaius had all the answers.

'Well, magic requires incantations, spells. It takes years to study. What I saw you do was...elemental, instinctive,' said Gaius.

'What's the point if it can't be used?' said Merlin frustrated.

'That I do not know. You are a question that has never been posed before, Merlin,' said Gaius.

They sighed in disappointment. They didn't learn anything new.

'Did you ever study magic?' asked Merlin.

'Uther banned all such work twenty years ago,' said Gaius.

'Why?' asked Merlin.

'People used magic for the wrong end at that time.It threw the natural order into chaos. Uther made it his mission to destroy everything from back then, even the dragons.'

Hagrid and Charlie's faces turned red with anger.

'What? All of them?' asked Merlin shocked.

'There was one dragon he chose not to kill, kept it as an example. He imprisoned it in a cave deep beneath the castle where no one can free it.

"But," a confused looking Harry said, "what about Aithusa?"

"She wasn't born yet." Merlin told him.

Now, eat up. When you've finished, I need you to take a preparation to Lady Helen.She needs it for her voice.' Gaius explained to Merlin.

Merlin is walking up the balcony corridor where he enters Lady Helen's chambers.

Merlin puts the potion bottle down on the table and notices a special book. Lady Helen walks in and Merlin tries to cover the evidence that he had been snooping up.

'What are you doing here?' asked Mary Collins looking like an unimpressed lady.

'An...I, I was asked to deliver this,' said Merlin quickly picking the bottle up from the table and showing "Lady Helen" it.

They see Mary's reflection on the half covered mirror behind him. Merlin hands her the little bottle and quickly exits the room.

Merlin is walking across the lower town where he passes Arthur and his gang of knights.

Merlin smirked, remembering that fight. It was also when they both felt the connection of their bond, though they were not going to admit it.

'How's your knee-walking coming along?' asked Arthur.

Merlin keeps walking on.

"Good, ignore him." Hestia said. Still slightly angry at the way he treated that poor boy. Merlin looked sheepish.

'Aw, don't run away!' laughed Arthur.

Merlin stops.

The women groaned while the men and boys looked eager.

Arthur sighs, 'Thank God. I thought you were deaf as well as dumb.'

'Look, I've told you you're an ass,' said Merlin turning to face the prince. 'I just didn't realise you were a royal one.

They all burst out laughing, yet again to Merlin's wit. They never knew he could be this funny!

"You must come pranking with us!" Fred and George shouted, eliciting horrified looks from the teachers and their mother.

Merlin shook his head, still chuckling, and the twins frowned in disappointment. The teachers and Molly breathed a sigh of relief.

Oh, what are you going to do? Get your daddy's men to protect you?' Merlin said mockingly.

Arthur laughs 'I could take you apart with one blow.'

'I could take you apart with less than that' said Merlin.

'Are you sure?' asked Arthur.

'Come on, then,' Sir Jamieson.

'Fight,' cheered Sir Amos.

Merlin takes off his jacket and Arthur laughs.

'...toying with him, then!' said Sir Nigel.

'Here you go,' said Arthur.

Sir Frederick handed Arthur a mace which he threw at Merlin which he promptly dropped.

Fred and George snickered at him while the others all looked amused.

"I never had to learn how to catch things with my hands. I always had my magic." Merlin shrugged, not bothered in the least.

Merlin picks up and Arthur professionally swing his mace around his head showing his superior skill.

'That a way,' cheered Sir Amos.

'Come on, then. I warn you, I've been trained to kill since birth,' said Arthur.

'Wow, and how long have you been training to be a prat?' asked Merlin cheekily.

Merlin smiled while everyone else laughed yet again. The first time he ever called Arthur a prat. But certainly not the last.

Arthur snorted, 'You can't address me like that.'

'I'm sorry. H-How long have you been training to be a prat, My Lord?' he asked with an annoying fake bow.

More laughter.

Arthur began swinging the mace with vigour an annoyed expression on his face.

'Come on then, Merlin! Come on!' jeered Arthur.

Arthur is backing Merlin into the market stalls as a large crowd gathers. Gaius who is in his chambers sees the crowd and looks and realized Merlin – once again – is in trouble. Merlin falls over.

Arthur laughs, 'You're in trouble now.'

'Oh God,' moans Merlin.

Merlin looks desperately around then seeing some large hooks (his eyes glowing liquid gold) magically entangles Arthur's mace around them.

People smirked and laughed at Arthur's misfortune.

As soon as Arthur has untangled his mace he comes back for another attack. Once again Merlin's eyes glow gold and a box moves in front of Arthur who stubs his toe on the box.

'OW! Argh!' yelled the Prince.

More laughter.

Arthur is pursuing Merlin again. Merlin's eyes glow golden forcing a rope under Arthur's feet to tighten making Arthur trip up.

Merlin picks up the mace and begins waving it at Arthur.

'Do you want to give up?' Merlin shouts.

'To you?' Arthur is shocked a mere servant can beat him.

'Do you? Do you want to give up?' Merlin repeats.

Arthur is moving away from the mace and catches his foot in a bucket and falls over. Merlin then spots Gaius and looks away from the fight.

"Never lose your concentration. Constant Vigilance!" Tonks shouted in a perfect Mad-eye voice, causing people to jump and glare at her. She only smiled.

Arthur takes the moment of Merlin's distraction to knock his opponent over with a broom.

They winced when Merlin was hit. That looked painful. Molly looked like she wanted to get up and fuss over him, until she realized he was much more older than her, he doesn't need her to mother him.

Arthur's guards begin to pick Merlin up but Arthur stops them.

'Wait. Let him go. He may be an idiot, but he's a brave one.

Merlin smile again. Thus started the famous names for each other.

There's something about you, Merlin. I can't quite put my finger on it.'

There it was. The beginning of their bond. Both trying to fight it, and in the end lose. They were destined to anyway.

Merlin seemed to be trying to avoid Arthur's gaze hoping he wouldn't guess the truth.

The scene cut to Gaius' chambers where Merlin and Gaius are sitting. Gaius is giving Merlin another lecture.

'How could you be so foolish?' shouted the physician.

'He needed to be taught a lesson,' said Merlin.

'Magic must be studied, mastered, and used for good! Not for idiotic pranks!' scolded Gaius.

Minerva, Flitwick and Slughorn nodded. They agreed with Gaius.

'What is there to master? I could move objects like that before I could talk!' said Merlin.

'Then, by now, you should know how to control yourself!' said Gaius.

'I don't want to! If I can't use magic, what have I got? I'm just a nobody, and I always will be.

They all snorted at that. Merlin? A nobody? HA, as if!

If I can't use magic, I might as well die,' said Merlin.

Now they looked uncomfortable. They were watching what appeared to be a very private moment between uncle and nephew. They wished they were able to skip these moments.

Merlin goes to his bedchamber. Gaius follows the boy up with a basket of medical supplies.

Gaius sighs, 'Merlin? Sit up. Take your shirt off.' He instructs.

Merlin removed his shirt revealing the bruises from the fight.

More winces as they saw the results of the fight.

'You don't know why I was born like this, do you?' asked Merlin softly.

'No.' admitted Gaius.

Gaius is attending to Merlin's wounds.

'I'm not a monster, am I?' asked Merlin softly.

Harry looked at Merlin with sympathy. He knew how it felt when you believed you were different. Abnormal. A freak.

Gaius looks Merlin directly in the eye, 'Don't ever think that.' He said.

'Then why am I like this? Please, I need to know why.' Merlin needed the truth.

'Maybe there's someone with more knowledge than me,' said Gaius.

'If you can't tell me, no one can,' said Merlin.

Gaius pours a potion into a tiny cup. 'Take this it will help with the pain.'

Uther and Mary Collins who Uther thought was Lady Helen were dining together.

'Will you sing for me tonight?' asked Uther.

'You will have to wait, Sire.' The sorceress replied.

'You will not deny me.' said Uther.

'I am saving myself for my performance tomorrow. Will everyone be there?' she asked.

'Who would dare to miss it?' said Uther.

'How about your son?' asked Mary Collins.

Merlin glared.

'Well...' Uther trailed off.

'It seems a shame not to have met him.' the witch faked sadness.

'That's Arthur,' said Uther.

'Poor child.' said Mary Collins.

'Hmm?' said the confused king.

'Poor child. It can't have been easy to, to grow up without a mother,' said the witch.

'No.' said Uther.

'Hmm. That bond between mother and son, it's so hard to replace,' said Mary.

'Hasn't been easy,' agreed Uther.

'I'm sure,' smiled Mary Collins.

Uther smiles back at him.

'Perhaps if you found someone...If you remarried.

Merlin snorted, remembering when Uther did remarry.

I'm sure you'd have the pick of any maiden in the kingdom.'

'Well, perhaps I'll find love again.

But I'm afraid it's too late to replace Arthur's mother.' sighed Uther.

'Yes. It's certainly too late for Arthur,' agreed the woman who would try and kill the prince.

Later on that night Merlin was lying awake in his bed.

'Merlin, Merlin,' the voice was back again.

Merlin jumps out of bed and leaves Gaius' quarters. He runs across the square.

"Finally, we get to see who has been calling you!" Harry shouted in glee, making others laugh.

'Merlin,' the voice continued to intone.

Merlin follows it descending down the stairs. He magically distracts the guards by rolling their dice away from them.

Merlin grabs a torch and descends down the stairway.

'Merlin, Merlin,' the voice continues to shout.

Merlin enters the cave.

'Merlin,' called the Great Dragon..

Merlin looked around for the source of the voice.

'Where are you?' Merlin calls out.

The Great Dragon landed in front of Merlin.

Several people screamed at the sudden appearance of the Great Dragon. They looked at him with wide eyes, hardly believing what they see.

Merlin smirked. "Yes, that is Kilgharrah."

'I'm here. How small you are for such a great destiny,' said Kilgharrah.

"So that's how you find out?" Hermione asked, still in shock over seeing Kilgharrah.

Merlin smiled and nodded.

'Why? What do you mean? What destiny?' asked Merlin.

'Your gift, Merlin, was given to you for a reason,' responded the Great Dragon.

'So there is a reason?' asked Merlin.

'Arthur is the Once and Future King who will unite the land of Albion,' responded Kilgharrah.

'Right,' Said Merlin awkwardly.

'But he faces many threats from friend

Merlin sighed. "I didn't realize he meant Morgana till much later."

and foe alike,' said Kilgharrah.

'I don't see what this has to do with me,' said Merlin.

'Everything. Without you, Arthur will never succeed. Without you, there will be no Albion,' said Kilgharrah.

'No. No, you've got this wrong,' said Merlin.

'There is no right or wrong, only what is and what isn't.' he said wisely.

"Is this where you got all your cryptic answers and wise advice from?" Ron asked.

Merlin just shrugged.

'But I'm serious! If anyone wants to go and kill him, they can go ahead. In fact, I'll give them a hand,' said Merlin.

All of their eyes widened as they turned to Merlin who looked like he was holding in laughter.

"What is so funny?" Minerva barked.

Merlin choked down his laugh and said, "I didn't actually mean it! Arthur's and mine relationship is very different than other peoples. You will understand the more you watch."

Minerva glared at him once more before turning back to the screen.

Kilgharrah laughed, 'none of us can choose our destiny, Merlin, and none of us can escape it.'

'No. No way. No. No. There must be another Arthur because this one's an idiot,' said Merlin.

'Perhaps it's your destiny to change that,' said Kilgharrah.

Merlin smiled. Arthur did change. He changed a lot.

The dragon flies off.

'Wait! Wait! Wait, stop! No, I, I need to know more!' Merlin shouts after the dragon.

The next morning Gaius enters Merlin's chambers and picks up the clothes thrown all over the room.

'Hoy!' said the old physician.

Merlin suddenly wakes.

'Have you seen the state of this room?' said Gaius paternally.

'It just happens,' said Merlin.

'By magic?' asked Gaius.

'Yeah,' Merlin is obviously lying.

'Yes. Well, you can clear it up without magic. And then I want you to get me some herbs: henbane, wormwood, and sorrel. And deliver this to Morgana. Poor girl's suffering from nightmares.'

Gaius tosses some more clothes at Merlin.

'Mmm, I know the feeling,' said Merlin.

Merlin walks up to Morgana's chambers and into her chambers where she is currently changing behind a screen.

'You know, I've been thinking about Arthur. I wouldn't touch him with a lance pole.

Merlin looked a little sick as he heard this. She was Arthur's sister after all.

Pass me that dress, will you Gwen?' asked Morgana.

Merlin pauses and looks around before he passed Morgana a dress. She begins undressing.

'I mean, the man's a total jouster. And just because I'm the King's ward, that doesn't mean I have to accompany him to the feast, does it?' Morgana said.

Merlin places the gown on the screen.

'Well, does it?' Morgana repeated.

Merlin shakes his head, 'Mm-Mmm,' said Merlin who was trying not to show his masculinity.

The teens laughed at the predicament Merlin found himself in.

'If he wants me to go, then he should invite me, and he hasn't,' said Morgana indignantly.

On the box Merlin seemed to be looking around for some way out of his current predicament.

'So do you know what that means?' asked Morgana.

Merlin shakes his head, 'Mm-Mmm.

'Where are you?' she calls for her maid.

Morgana turns around and Merlin hides behind a cloak, 'here,' the young man says in a high pitched voice.

Fred and George laughed. "You make a very pretty girl Merlin!"

Merlin blushed while everyone else laughed.

Merlin peeks through the neck of the cloak of the hood to see the beautiful Lady Morgana.

'It means I'm going by myself,' said the lady.

Merlin decides its time to leave and moves to leave.

'I need some help with this fastening,' she said. "Gwen?"

Merlin turned around looking lost. Gwen enters behind him. "I'm here." She said, confused.

'What are you doing here?' mouthed Gwen.

Merlin gestured to Morgana.

Gwen nods, 'oh.'

Merlin mouths a thank you to Gwen before he leaves and she helps Morgana. Morgana comes out from behind the screen in a new dress and carrying another one.

'So, it's whether I wear this little tease...' said Morgana holding up a maroon gown. '...or give them a night they'll really remember?'

Once again they cut to Lady Helen's chambers where a serving girl was tending to the imposter. She is brining a bowl of fruit to the woman. She knocks on the door which is opened by a dark haired woman.

'Lady Helen.' The serving girl that Gwen and Merlin knew as Bronwen curtsied, 'Compliments of the King.'

'Come in,' Mary invites the girl in.

The atmosphere became tense. They knew something horrible was about to happen. Merlin sighed, he remembered the terror it caused when they found the girl, dead, in those chambers. It was awful.

Mary sits at the table and picks up an apple.

'So sweet. How will I ever repay him?' asked Mary Collins.

'When he hears you sing. Well, that will be more than enough won't it? I'm really looking forward to the performance.' The girl said.

'So am I,' Lady Helen's face had a slightly sinister look to it.

'I love singing, you know. I sing all the time. My betrothed says I have the voice of a fallen angel.' the girl prattled on.

Bronwen removes the cover from the mirror and sees the old face of Mary Collins' in the mirror. She tries to leave. But the woman grabs her arm and the girl falls down dead.

The women had tears in their eyes and the men looked murderous. That girl did not deserve to die.

Gaius and Merlin enter the banquet hall where the nobles and courtiers are already in attendance. Merlin sees Arthur and a group of his Knights laughing.

'...Merlin...' Arthur is saying and his knights laugh '...so I stood up and...' he pretends to punch one of his mates stomach again at which they laugh again.

Morgana enters the hall and all the men stare at her.

Ron was doing the same. Hermione, looking annoyed, hit Ron in the arm, waking him from his daze. He looked sheepish.

'God have mercy,' breathed Arthur.

Merlin, again, looked sick.

Merlin stares at Morgana as she passes.

'Merlin. Remember, you're here to work,' Gaius reminded Merlin quietly.

'Oh, yeah,' Merlin was still gazing at his would-be-enemy as Arthur moves forward to talk to him.

Merlin looked down as he felt eyes on him. His cheeks were a light red.

Meanwhile Gwen moves over to talk to Merlin.

'She looks great, doesn't she?' said Gwen.

'Yeah,' said Merlin wistfully.

'Some people are just born to be queen,' said Gwen.

"NO!" was shouted in the room. That would have been disastrous.

'No!' shouted Merlin.

'I hope so. One day. Not that I'd want to be her. Who'd want to marry Arthur?'

Everyone chuckled at the irony.

'Oh,' he chuckled, 'come on, Gwen. I thought you liked those real rough, tough, save the world kind of men.'

'No, I like much more ordinary men like you,' said Gwen.

'Gwen, believe me, I'm not ordinary,' said Merlin darkly.

Merlin was sent sympathetic looks, which he ignored. He hated those looks.

'No, I didn't mean you, obviously. Not you. But just, you know, I like much more ordinary men like you,' Gwen said in a fluster.

'Thanks,' Merlin grinned.

Both of the servants walk away from each other awkwardly.

"Awkward." Fred and George sang, causing people to chuckle.

Mary Collins is sitting at her dressing table humming softly before leaving the room walking past Bronwen's corpse on the way out. Celebratory horns announce King Uther's arrival and everyone finds their places on the table.

'We have enjoyed twenty years of peace and prosperity. It has brought the kingdom and myself many pleasures,

Merlin had a dark look on his face. His father, forever on the run, was pleasure to him?

but few can compare with the honor of introducing Lady Helen of Mora,' Uther gestured for Lady Helen herself to the applause of the other guests.

Mary Collin begins to sing and as she does an enchantment falls over them all causing the banqueters to fall asleep cobwebs forming over their frozen forms.

Merlin notices this and clamps his hands over his ears.

"How come you didn't fall asleep?" Luna asked in her usual dreamy voice.

Merlin smiled at her. "Because my magic protected me." She nodded.

She begins staring at Arthur as she pulls a dagger from her sleeve. Merlin's eyes glow golden as he drops the chandelier on her.

Several people winced at that, but they knew it had to be done.

The courtiers wake and begin pulling the cobwebs off of themselves. Mary raises herself up off the floor to throw the dagger at Arthur. Merlin slows down time so he can reach Arthur and pushes him out of harms way.

"Woo!" Fred and George cheered.

The dagger slices into Arthur's chair as they fall to the floor and Mary Collins dies. Uther and Arthur stare in shock at Merlin.

'You saved my boy's life. A debt must be repaid,' said Uther.

'Oh, well...' said Merlin not sounding happy at being addressed by Uther.

'Don't be so modest. You shall be rewarded,' Uther declared.

'No, honestly, you don't have to, Your Highness,' Merlin blathered.

'No, absolutely. This merits something quite special!' Uther decided.

'Well...' Merlin trailed.

'You shall be rewarded a position in the royal household. You shall be Prince Arthur's manservant,' he decided.

Jaws dropped and eyes widened. He said what now?

"You were a servant?" Kingsley asked, in shock. Merlin smirked and nodded.

"B-but, you're you!" Ron spluttered. Merlin cocked an eyebrow at him. "You shouldn't be a servant!"

Merlin just looked at them. "I loved my job as Arthur's servant. Well, not in the beginning. It allowed me to be close to Arthur and to go to places without suspicion. It was perfect."

They still stared at him. He sighed and gestured toward the screen.

"Father!" Arthur said, aghast. Merlin and Arthur looked away from each other both looking unhappy.

Merlin chuckled. Oh, neither one of them was happy about that.

The court then applauds.

Gaius knocks on Merlin's bedroom door and enters.

'Seems you're a hero,' said Gaius.

'Hard to believe, isn't it?' said Merlin.

Disbelieving looks were thrown his way which he, predictably, ignored.

'No. I knew it from the moment I met you. When you saved my life, remember?' Gaius reminded Merlin.

'But...that was magic,' said Merlin.

Gaius nods, "and now, it seems, we finally found a use for it.'

'What do you mean?' asked Merlin.

'I saw how you saved Arthur's life,' said Gaius.

'Oh, no,' said Merlin.

'Perhaps that's its purpose,' said Gaius thoughtfully.

Merlin sighed, 'my destiny.'

'Indeed. This book was given to me when I was your age, but I have a feeling it will be of more use to you than it was to me,' he smiled at his ward.

Gaius handed Merlin a large leather bound book that Merlin immediately unlatches.

Hermione, Ron and Harry gasped. "That was the book you showed us!" Hermione yelled, excited.

Merlin nodded. "Yes, and that is why you must be very careful with it. It is the only thing of Gaius's that I have left." He stated sadly.

Merlin smiled, "but this is a book of magic.'

Which is why you must keep it hidden,' said Gaius.

'I will study every word,' said Merlin.

A guard knocks on the door and Merlin is quick to hide the magic book.

The guard enters and says, 'Merlin, Prince Arthur wants you right away.'

'Your destiny's calling. You'd better find out what he wants,' said Gaius.

Merlin grins then walks out the door.

They all sighed when the first viewing was over. They learned so much from that one viewing, they couldn't even imagine what the others held.

Merlin sighed. It will only get more difficult from here.