Why would I lie when I can tell you the truth?

by HadrianPeverellBlack

Summary:

Merlin tries to figure out how many people he can admit to having magic without getting caught.

Notes:

Hi everyone! I got this idea reading a post on Tumblr, where Merlin practically never lies, and every time he says everything he has done with magic.

I loved the idea, and here it is!

Merlin Bingo, adopted prompt: anxiety

Chapter 1: Telling the truth

Merlin had felt guilty all week. 

 

Because of him, because of his oversight and his distraction, Gwen had almost been killed . And not even taking responsibility, confessing that he had magic himself and was responsible for Tom's recovery, was of any use .

 

Why had Arthur ignored his talent like that ? Couldn't he see that Merlin hadn't lied ?

 

Did he think Merlin was really so incompetent that he didn't believe he could have magic?

 

Merlin sighed, looking up from the floor he was polishing to see Arthur sitting at his desk, his blue eyes focused on Merlin.

 

Merlin swallowed. Part of him had been relieved when he told Arthur the truth about him. He had bypassed Gaius' warnings and stopped lying to what was becoming his friend. And, a small part of him felt even better when he realised he finally didn't have to hide anymore.

 

And, now, the anxiety of being discovered was back, and so was a hint of resentment for not having been believed.

 

"Merlin," Arthur spoke suddenly, looking at Merlin with the most serious look he could muster. “While what you did for Gwen was brave and noble, it was also senseless. My father would have killed you both .”

 

Merlin swallowed, looking down. Part of him was warmed by hearing Arthur call him brave and noble , but the other part was indignant when the prince added the senseless part.

 

“I was just taking my own responsibility.” Merlin replied, ignoring the snort Arthur let out.

 

Would he really not believe him just because Merlin hadn't tried to kill him or his face wasn't old or permanently damaged? It was simply offensive.

 

“ Your responsibilities , of course…” Arthur chuckled, then said. “While I can understand committing stupid actions for love-” it was Merlin's turn to snort, wanting to point out that Arthur committed stupid actions for fun , “-dying isn't exactly the way to get the girl.”

 

“Okay, first of all, you just were very offensive .” Merlin said, raising his eyebrow at Arthur. “Secondly, I'm not in love with Gwen. She's my friend, and I love her as a friend ."

 

"Obviously." Arthur smiled, conceding the point.

 

“You don't even believe me on this, do you?” Merlin snorted, before blinking and looking thoughtfully at Arthur.

 

If Arthur didn't believe him, Merlin might as well be honest with him, right? 

 

He didn't believe Merlin could have magic, so Merlin might as well be honest with him and then rub it in his face that he had magic and wasn't believed even after he confessed .

 

“I have a question, actually.” Arthur said, holding up the report he was writing about the magical creature he had killed to cleanse Camelot and save his people. “How did you know about the creature?”

 

“I went to the Great Dragon into the depths of the caverns of Camelot and asked him for a hand.” Merlin said. “He was also the one who told me to keep the elements in mind and that I was only one side of the coin.”

 

Arthur burst out laughing. " Really ? Did he also say anything else, by any chance?”

 

"The Dragon? Lots of nonsense like you are the Once and Future King and I have to protect you with my magic.” Merlin shrugged. “You're not making my job very easy , but that's okay. I know it's not really your fault. You can’t help it."

 

Arthur snorted, eyes sparkling with amusement. “But I killed the Creature, right?”

 

“It's called Afanc .” Merlin told him. “Gaius discovered this, not the dragon. And, well, you helped kill it.”

 

“ Helped .” Arthur repeated, trying to sound serious. “How did I help ?”

 

“The Afanc was a creature of water and earth, right? The dragon said to remember the elements, and therefore fire and air were needed to destroy it.” Merlin explained. “You had fire, I told you to use fire, and then I made a gust of wind to get air.”

 

"Obviously." Arthur nodded. “Do you mind if I don't put it in the report? My father may not appreciate your humour.”

 

“I'll tell him if he asks me.” Merlin said calmly. “Of course, I know you like to take credit. And your father doesn't really know about magical creatures, so you can only say you killed it.”

 

"Very kind of you." Arthur's voice dripped with sarcasm. “I will not forget your kindness.”

 

Merlin murmured.

 

How much could he get away with?

Chapter 2: Merlin starts to doubt Arthur's memory ~ and he misses Lancelot

Summary:

Merlin is amused by Arthur's bad humour. He shouldn't be, he knows, but he is.

Well, it isn't his fault if Arthur is a blind ass

Notes:

Hi! Long time I haven't added a chapter here!

Enjoy this!

Also, this is for Merlin Bingo: crack

Merlin shouldn't have been as amused as he was, and yet…

 

Yet he had never had so much fun in his entire life.

 

Arthur had been in a foul mood for some time.

 

The combination of having to save the servant from his death for drinking poison aimed at Arthur and then seeing Lancelot be the best of his knights without being a noble… Well, Arthur was definitely irritated.

 

Maybe Merlin should ease his anger, console him somehow, but the temptation was too strong to ignore.

 

“And how did he get such a well-made sigil?” Arthur was complaining, repeating the same things over and over again. “Not even Geoffrey would have known something was wrong if we hadn't personally met the nobleman he passed off as his father!”

 

Merlin frowned. He should definitely do some research on the noble families close to Arthur, you know, just for future reference .

 

“That would be my fault, Arthur.” Merlin said cheerfully. “I used magic to create a sigil from the text on noble families that Geoffrey has in the library.”

 

“You did what ?” Arthur stopped, frowning and looking at Merlin. "How did you do? I didn't know you were skilled in smuggling .”

 

“Given how much smugglers are paid, I think I should go that route instead of insisting on being your servant.” Merlin frowned. “Unless you want to deal with the issue of a pay rise ?”

 

“You just admitted to breaking the law of Camelot.” Arthur said dryly. “Is this really the right time to ask for a raise ?”

 

“I guess it is not.” Merlin conceded, wearing a pout the same. “ Anyway , Lancelot had saved my life from the gryphon, you know, and I felt to owe him. He wanted to be a knight of Camelot, and I thought I could help him. He had the skill and the right attitude, but not the noble blood. That rule is stupid, by the way, you should really abolish it as soon as you have a chance.”

 

Arthur groaned, still glaring at Merlin.

 

" All right . I magically recreated the sigil and then simply persuaded Lancelot to join my plan.” Merlin shrugged. “Damn Uther.”

 

“Hey!” Arthur defended his father. “You're talking about my father !”

 

“Damn Uther, the only thing he's good at is making children.” Merlin corrected himself, enjoying the surprise on Arthur's face, before he groaned. 

 

“I didn't mean this either, and you know it. ” The prince told him.

 

“Well, that's all.” Merlin said. “I feel bad for Lancelot, though. He would have been a good knight for you if I had done more research.”

 

“Maybe next time you have to break the law that much , think to warn me before, will you?” Arthur said sarcastically.

 

Merlin shrugged. Maybe he would take him at his word. At this point, he was frankly curious to see how far he could get before Arthur realised that Merlin actually had magic.

 

The funny thing was, Arthur couldn't even accuse him of lying .

 

Merlin was only telling the truth.

 

“And what about the gryphon?” Arthur asked. “Gaius said only magic could beat him, yet Lancelot did it.”

 

“Oh, I enchanted Lancelot's blade. So, yeah, he killed him, I just levelled the playing field.” Merlin shrugged. “I didn't even mind giving him the credit for that if that made him stay . But the noble Lancelot, ” Merlin might have been a little sarcastic as he called his best friend that, but damn he missed him , “just couldn't stay here knowing he didn't deserve it.”

 

"In what sense?" Arthur asked, confused.

 

“He saw me use magic.” Merlin admitted. “Hard to miss it, you know, the blazing blue light and all, but I was used to you , so… I think I can be excused.”

 

“ Merlin …” Arthur warned him.

 

" What ?" Merlin groaned. “I told you I made the wind in a cave far from the entrance and you blamed I don't know what, and then the blue light that led you to safety, trying to stop you from taking the flowers! Have you forgotten that ? How? ”

 

“Did Morgana tell you about it?” Arthur asked, surprised and embarrassed.

 

“No, I was the light , clotpole!” Merlin groaned in frustration. “Morgana doesn't know that the light wasn't taking you to the flowers, does she? But directly towards the exit , away from the huge spiders ?”

 

“I…” Arthur blinked, before sighing and saying. “At least I don't have to look for a way to ignore your intervention in this matter. Again, I don't think my father would appreciate your weird humour.”

 

Merlin groaned.

 

His mother had been right to send him to Camelot. They would not have recognized a sorcerer even if he had been before their eyes.

Chapter 3: Merlin needs some comfort after Edwin

Summary:

A remedy to cure all ills aftermaths!

Notes:

Hi! I think this is the first episode where Merlin kill a person. So, yes, he needs to talk about it. Arthur is just there for him!

Written for: Merlin Bingo, Experiments by evil sorcerers/scientists

Arthur glanced at Merlin. 

 

Merlin was wondering when the prince would finally ask , instead of staring at him with that bright, worried look, and trying to figure out what Merlin wasn’t telling him.

 

“So…” Arthur murmured, “Morgana is fine.”

 

Merlin sighed.

 

Was it too late to put Morgana on the throne? Once and Future Queen seemed much more progressive. Ahead of time, certainly.

 

Morgana had also believed that Merlin was acting out of madness for Gwen, but Morgana didn’t spend entire days with Merlin, and Gwen had actually kissed Merlin, afterward. Morgana had an excuse to believe that Merlin had a crush on Gwen.

 

A thought crossed Merlin’s mind, a sudden thought that had never crossed Merlin’s mind before.

 

Had Gwen kissed Merlin because Morgana had told her that Merlin had a crush on her?

 

Was it a kiss of pity? Some kind of ‘you’re not dead, congratulations ’?

 

Merlin blinked.

 

That would be a new low.

 

“ Mer lin?”

 

The servant looked at the prince. Ignoring him had proved futile, so he simply answered. “Morgana’s been fine for almost a week. Did you notice just now ?”

 

“It’s a shame Edwin turned out to be a traitor.” Arthur said. “I’m sorry I didn’t listen to you, you know, when you questioned Edwin.”

 

Merlin stiffened.

 

Merlin hadn’t questioned Edwin. Merlin had fallen for his lies like a damned idiot because he felt so damn lonely all the time .

 

And he’d put Gaius in danger. Arthur. Morgana. Gwen.

 

Uther too, but he couldn’t care less about Uther.

 

There was a thing called Karma, and it was only right that Uther die at the hands of the person he’d orphaned.

 

Merlin had only healed him because he didn’t want to make Arthur not an orphan. Nor Morgana.

 

“ Mer lin?” Arthur called again.

 

Perhaps not responding with pride or smugness to Arthur’s admission was unusual. But Merlin didn’t feel proud or smug.

 

“At least Gaius has citizenship now,” Merlin muttered dryly. “He certainly deserves it.”

 

“I didn’t even know he didn’t have it yet.” Arthur shook his head. “It’s about time he got it.”

 

Merlin nodded.

 

“So what’s made you so quiet?” Arthur asked. “Did you do some magic trick and it didn’t work?”

 

Merlin sobbed. “I almost got Gaius killed!”

 

“ What ?” Arthur blinked in confusion. “ What are you talking about?”

 

“Edwin saw me use magic, and then he told me he had magic, and I was stupid enough to believe he meant in his story that magic can be used for good!” Merlin blurted out. “No sorcerer ever thinks that! They’re always here to kill you or your father or both of you!”

 

“Wait, what ?” Arthur asked.

 

“You really don’t know that sorcerers come to Camelot to kill one of you?” Merlin exclaimed, feeling ironic. “I was a huge idiot, because Gaius knew who he was, and he knew Edwin would hurt Uther, but I just wanted to be understood by someone, just for once , and he…”

 

“ Mer lin…” Arthur whispered.

 

“You should hate me, Arthur.” Merlin muttered. “He threatened Gaius with me, and Gaius tried not to intervene, to save my life , and you almost lost your father because I was a damn idiot . And, okay, Uther doesn’t have many sorcerer fans, and I don’t love him because I know it would make me sting, but he’s your father!”

 

“Merlin, you didn’t hurt my father,” Arthur said. “It was Edwin . This is Edwin ’s fault. And Gaius saved my father, didn’t he?”

 

“Not exactly…” Merlin sighed. “I saved him. I used magic on the damned king of Camelot, knowing he would kill me. Gods, I’m an idiot.”

 

“What happened to Edwin?”

 

Arthur’s voice was dull, hesitant.

 

Merlin turned. Did Arthur finally believe him?

 

Unable to read the blond’s expression, Merlin said. “I told him I wouldn’t join him in his revenge against Uther and you Pendragons in general. And then he tried to kill me with an axe, and I threw it back at him.” Merlin winced. “I’ve never killed a person before…”

 

Merlin flinched as he felt a pair of arms wrap around him.

 

“Arthur…?”

 

“I don’t believe you.” Arthur rolled his eyes. “I’m not sure using magic as a metaphor is a good idea, Merlin, but… you killed to protect my father and I know you don’t like it. Especially for Lancelot-” Merlin grimaced at the memory of his friend, making Merlin smile in amusement and knowing, “-but thank you . It takes a lot of courage to take a life. I know you feel guilty, but I want you to remember why you did it. You wanted to save me and my father. You didn’t kill for fun, you killed for defence. For protection. You’re not as evil as Edwin.”

 

Merlin released a breath he’d been holding.

 

Maybe Arthur wasn’t that bad, Merlin mused. Not bad enough to replace him with Morgana, at least.

 

“And, Merlin?”

 

Merlin looked up at Arthur.

 

“I would never judge you for who you love, you know that?” Arthur smiled, looking a little guilty. “And just because it’s not reciprocated, doesn’t mean you have to die.”

 

Merlin blinked, watching Arthur blush, nod, and walk out.

 

Oh, gods.

 

Arthur had been convinced that Merlin had started a cycle of developing a crush on someone, losing that someone in some way, and then confessing that he had the magic to kill himself?

 

Wow, that was a new low.

 

Merlin looked away.

 

Maybe he should put Gwen on the throne.

 

Yeah, she seemed like the most reasonable person there.

Chapter 4: Merlin has some words after the Sophia's mess

Summary:

Merlin and Arthur talk about the almost-marriage (Merlin disagree with Gaius' story)

Notes:

Hi! This is for Merlin Bingo, napping.

Also... would you like more POVs? Maybe Arthur? Let me know in the comments!

Merlin would have killed Arthur.

 

He had decided that no one else would kill him, because, after all the times Merlin had saved his life, it would be Merlin who ended the royal idiot's life.

 

Don't trust Valiant, it's not Gwen's fault, there's something in the chalice, there's a gryphon...

 

And did Arthur ever thank him? 

 

No, Arthur didn't even believe Merlin had magic. 

 

Stupid idiot.

 

And then, what had he done?

 

He had gone to fall in love with a girl, he had gotten Merlin into trouble with Uther, he had gotten himself enchanted with a powerful spell, and Merlin had to fight two Sidhe .

 

And had anyone thanked him?

 

No .

 

“You seem to be in a very bad mood.” Arthur commented. “I thought hitting me over the head would make you happier.”

 

“Keep talking, and I will definitely do it again.” Merlin growled, glaring at him.

 

Merlin hadn't even been able to hit him on the head. He had been too scared of the danger Arthur had been in!

 

Arthur smiled. “That, Merlin, is treason.”

 

“Not if I tell the truth .” Merlin replied, still angry.

 

“Come on, Merlin, what's happening? You brought me back, didn't you?” Arthur said. “You didn't make me marry Sophia.”

 

“ Marry Sophia ?” Merlin screamed. “ Why do you believe Gaius' nonsense, but never believe what I say? I'm telling you the truth from Gwen and you still don't believe me!”

 

And then, seriously ? Getting married to Sophia?

 

Merlin understood the desire to kill Arthur much more than to marry him.

 

Arthur paused.

 

Merlin narrowed his eyes. If Arthur had tried to insinuate that Merlin had fallen in love with Sophia , Merlin would have killed him, turned him into a goblet and washed his hands of it.

 

“ Okay… ” Arthur spoke carefully. “If I wasn't getting married… what was I doing?”

 

“You were being sacrificed by two Sidhe!” Merlin shouted back. “You were getting yourself killed because you couldn't ignore the fact that you had duties with your father, you wanted to spend time with Sophia, and then you let yourself be enchanted !”

 

“I can't be judged if I wanted to make a guest feel welcome.” Arthur murmured. “I've been… lenient with myself, with my duties to the kingdom, but… I just thought there was no harm in taking some time for myself.”

 

Merlin growled. “Well, take some time away from magical beings who want to sacrifice you ! It's not difficult ! Why can't you do it for a damn week ?”

 

Arthur smiled. “Uh…am I too desirable?”

 

Merlin glared at him.

 

Arthur was not desirable. Arthur was the son of a tyrant and paid the price.

 

But there was nothing desirable about him.

 

“Okay, Sophia and her father wanted to kill me. I guess you saved me.” Arthur said. “Gaius' story was that you hit me over the head, to bring me back. I didn't really believe it, but I was grateful I wasn't married anyway.” Then, the prince looked at Merlin. “What happened?”

 

“I followed you, I killed Sophia's father, then her, and you were drowning, and I couldn't find you !” Merlin stopped, looking down.

 

“But you found me, didn't you?” Arthur's voice was gentle. “You saved me, Merlin. I am fine ."

 

“But I might not have done it!” Merlin exclaimed. “I can't always be fast! I can't always be faster or more powerfu l than the sorcerers that are trying to kill you!”

 

“But you are.” Arthur whispered. “Although you are exhausted now and should get some rest.”

 

"I am fine." Merlin snapped. “I'm perfectly fine and I need to make sure no one kills you today.”

 

“I'll be in my rooms all the time, Merlin.” Arthur reassured the servant. “And I won't go out without you.”

 

Merlin looked up sharply. “Yes, because you don't know how to take care of yourself!”

 

Arthur smiled, before pushing Merlin slightly towards the bed. “Good thing you're here to take care of me, then, Merlin?”

 

Merlin remained silent, surprised by Arthur's admission, wondering how bad he must have looked to have made him say such a thing. “Do you remember when you first asked me to cover for you and Sophia?”

 

Arthur stopped his movements, for a moment. "Yes. I remember. You were quite scared of lying to the king. I'm sorry, I shouldn't have asked you that."

 

“You said I would be a friend to do it.” Merlin whispered, ignoring the lie, because he was still lying to the king, technically speaking . “Did you mean that?”

 

Merlin felt Arthur tighten his grip on Merlin, before laying him down on the bed and covering him. “Merlin, no servant would ever do for me what you did. What you do for me."

 

Reassured by those words, Merlin closed his eyes, falling asleep.

 

Not even Arthur could get into trouble with Merlin there in the room.

Correction, Arthur might get into trouble, but Merlin would be there right away and he wouldn't need to run like a madman to get to him before it was too late.

Chapter 5: Merlin asks for forgiveness and Arthur is worried

Summary:

Merlin is so tired of making hard choices, Arthur is a good friend and Morgana got her confession

Notes:

Hi! The angst is rising. Like... really...

Anyway, now we'll see what Arthur thinks about Merlin's confessions!

I hope you'll like it! (Have some tissues with you for the reading!)

This is for Merlin Bingo, protective Arthur

Merlin stared blankly at Morgana.

 

The girl had been so happy that their plan had succeeded.

 

“The child is well, and Uther cannot blame me, and he would never dream of blaming Arthur .” Morgana chirped happily. “And… and you were the first to get involved, but Arthur thinks he got you involved! It's so fun!”

 

Merlin snorted. “If he asks me why I decided to help him, I will simply tell him the truth.”

 

“What would that be?” Morgana asked, blinking, looking at Merlin curiously.

 

“That I have magic and that I couldn't leave him like this.” Merlin replied, wondering whether or not Morgana would believe him.

 

Morgana swallowed, remained silent, and when she opened her mouth to respond, she was interrupted by the arrival of Arthur himself.

 

“Merlin, we have work to do.” Arthur said, looking at the servant. Then, with a respectful nod towards the girl. “Morgana.”

 

Merlin followed Arthur, walking to the prince's chambers, who approached his wardrobe.

 

“I hope the druids have moved away, but we can't be sure. I have to lead a patrol to find Mordred this morning.”

 

Merlin murmured. “Arthur, I'm so sorry.”

 

Then he fell to his knees, covering his eyes with his hands.

 

“ Merlin !” Merlin heard Arthur's footsteps approaching. "Are you okay?"

 

"Please, forgive me." Merlin whispered. “I don't deserve your forgiveness, but please .”

 

“You haven't done anything wrong , Merlin.” Arthur knelt before Merlin, who felt the prince's hands move his own away from his eyes. “Merlin, I have nothing to forgive.”

 

“I did something unforgivable , Arthur.” Merlin looked Arthur straight in the eyes, letting the tears fall. “I helped Mordred leave.”

 

“Merlin, but I asked you to help me get him away, remember?” Arthur asked, his tone gentle. “You didn't go behind my back.”

 

“I was the one who brought Mordred to Morgana.” Merlin confessed, looking down. “I was already involved.”

 

“You did the right thing, Merlin.” Arthur said instead, squeezing Merlin's hands.

 

“No, you don't understand!” Merlin exclaimed, tears streaming down his cheeks. “I know what he's going to do in the future and I still couldn't do it!”

 

“What will who do in the future?” Arthur asked, speaking softly.

 

“ Mordred !” Merlin replied. “I know he will kill you in the future, Kilgharrah told me. He will kill you and I made him escape!”

 

Arthur remained silent. “The dragon is Kilgharrah, right? The one that talks in your head and tells you how to defeat your enemies?”

 

“Not all of them. He only told me that it was my destiny to protect you and how to defeat the Afanc. That is, in reality, he gave me some very general indications for the Afanc. He told me to just look at the elements. I understood with Gaius how to do it." Merlin explained, swallowing.

 

“So, he didn't even help so much.” Arthur deduced. “And now he tells you to let someone die for what he might do in the future?”

 

Kilgharrah had helped, though.

 

“For what he will do .” Merlin corrected, because damn, there was a difference. “He told me he's destined to kill you , Arthur. But I couldn't let him die, damn it, he's just a child !”

 

“Merlin…” Arthur murmured.

 

“And it could have been me .” Merlin added. “I looked at him, and that child could have been me ! Arthur, please forgive me.”

 

Arthur hugged him. “Merlin, now listen to me very carefully.”

 

Merlin looked up, staring into Arthur's eyes.

 

“I don't want you to kill a child . Don't do anything just because KIlgharrah or Gaius tells you to. Hell, not even if I order you to kill someone. If you don't want to, don't do it. Trust your heart .” Arthur said, speaking seriously. “And, as for Mordred… he's a child . We can't kill children. And destiny is not written in stone, Merlin. Maybe, in a possible future, Mordred will kill me. All right. But the Mordred of now, this Mordred ? This Mordred is innocent , and we cannot act on future action.”

 

Merlin nodded. “You're not mad at me, then?”

 

"No." Arthur shook his head. “I'm proud of you, Merlin. I'm so proud of you."

 

Merlin nodded.

 

He could live with that.

 

Mordred would kill Arthur in the future. Merlin would have stopped him.

 

But now, Mordred was innocent and Merlin had done well not to let him die.

***

Arthur was walking along thoughtfully.

 

The fake search had gone well. The Druids must have left Camelot or become very good at hiding, because they didn't see a single one.

 

Upon returning, Arthur was making his way to his chambers, sure to find a perfectly warm bath brought by Merlin.

 

Even if they arrived together, Merlin always managed to get them a warm bath for when Arthur arrived in his chambers. 

 

It was incredible.

 

“Arthur.”

 

Arthur stopped, surprised, looking at Morgana at his side. “Morgana. To what do I owe the sorrow?”

 

“It's about Merlin.” Morgana said, not paying attention to Arthur's teasing.

 

Arthur sighed.

“What did he do?”

 

“Did he tell you that he was the one who brought me the child the first time?” Morgana asked, perhaps deciding to start with what was the lesser evil.

 

Arthur couldn't blame her. Arthur was the one who had gotten Merlin involved. He would have been hypocritical to scold Merlin for being the first to meddle.

 

“Yes, he did.” Arthur nodded.

 

“And… did he even tell you why ?” Morgana asked, looking at Arthur warily.

 

“He told me he had magic.” Arthur admitted. “And that he saw himself in Mordred.”

 

Morgana gasped. “He said it to me too. Arthur… I'm worried about him.”

 

“I don't think he actually has magic, Morgana.” Arthur reassured the girl. “And I'm holding his confessions in my chambers, where it's just him and me.”

 

“If he doesn't have magic… Why would he say he does?” Morgana asked, frowning.

 

Arthur looked at the other, trying to figure out whether he should say it or not.

 

But Morgana was worried about Merlin, the two were friends , even if they shouldn't have been.

 

“I think he wants to die.” Arthur admitted softly. “And what about having magic is his way of being killed.”

 

Morgana gasped. “Arthur, Merlin it's… it's Merlin ! Why would he want to die?”

 

“I don't know.” Arthur replied in a hasty whisper, seeing guards pass by them. “I don't know what the situation is like here, or what it was like when Merlin was growing up. I know he never knew his father, though. And I know he only had one friend growing up. And I know he doesn't spend much time with the servants here because they think he stole a place from them. He doesn't like my father, he made it clear to me. The people he talks to are you, me, Gwen and Gaius.” Arthur sighed, running a hand over his forehead. “The times he confesses to having magic are always linked to the loss of a loved one. The first time, Gwen almost died. Then there was Lancelot who left, Edwin, who had earned Merlin’s trust, betrayed him, with Sophia he had been afraid of seeing me drown, he told me they were drowning me, and then, now with Mordred, he told me said a dragon told him he will kill me.”

 

“Do you think he’s suicidal?” Morgana asked softly. “Something like, better him than all the others?”

 

“He drank poison for me, Morgana.” Arthur reminded her. “Who drinks from a cup that he knows is poisoned? And he knew that no one would save him. My father would never have allowed it, and I warned him that a servant was not worth a prince.”

 

Morgana sniffed. “What can we do? I don't want to lose him."

 

“Let's show him we care .” Arthur replied. "Let's hope we can introduce him to more people.”

 

“That's why you don't offend him anymore.” Morgana murmured. “And that you recognized that you are friends.”

 

Arthur sighed. “I am his friend, or rather, he is my friend. And… I don't care much about my father's approval. I've been looking for his for a while, you know?”

 

Morgana smiled. “It's good. That you admit you need his help.”

 

Arthur gave her an annoyed look. “Talk to Gwen if you want. But… don't put too much pressure on her.”

 

“I won't.” Morgana nodded. “I don't want to ruin their friendship with guilt.”

 

“ Guilt ?” Arthur blinked.

 

“Merlin had a crush on her, didn't he? And Gwen didn't love him back." Morgana explained. “ Then Merlin drank some poison. Don't you remember?"

 

Arthur blinked. “I'm pretty sure Merlin has a crush on Lancelot , you know?”

 

“You can have a crush on more than one person.” Morgana shrugged. “Take care of him, okay?”

 

Arthur nodded. "I will do it." He promised.

He would take care of his best friend.

Notes:

Question: You think Morgana believes Merlin? Or she thinks like Arthur?

Chapter 6: Morgana sees something and realises something else

Summary:

Morgana wants to help Merlin and she isn't blind as Arthur

Notes:

Hi! This is for: Merlin Bingo - Deaf/Hard of Hearing!

Hope you'll like this!

Morgana felt shocked. 

 

After Arthur had confided in her his explanation behind Merlin's motivations, she had decided to observe Merlin herself to personally evaluate his behaviour.

 

And she didn't like what she saw at all.

 

Because… Arthur was completely wrong, but at the same time…

 

At the same time, Morgana feared that Arthur might be right.

 

Because Merlin didn't want to be killed so badly that he lied about having magic.

 

But he wasn't even protecting himself.

 

No, Merlin had never lied to Arthur. He had magic and Morgana had discovered it because she had seen him use it while cleaning Arthur's armour.

 

In the armoury. In broad daylight. With pieces of armour fluttering around him , hunched over a book that was clearly about magic .

 

“Merlin?” Morgana called, fearfully, in a low voice, afraid of being heard by anyone.

 

Merlin looked up, smiling at the sight of Morgana.

“Lady Morgana! It's nice to see you!"

 

“Yes… I…” Morgana swallowed. “Are you telling Arthur you have magic?”

 

“Yes, for a while actually.” Merlin nodded. “Not that the royal ass believes me, though.”

 

“We hear what we want to hear.” Morgana admitted. “It's not nice, but it's what we all do to protect ourselves from pain.”

 

“Well, Arthur thinks that since I was rejected by a hypothetical crush , I decided to be burned at the stake.” Merlin muttered grumpily. “The only pain I feel is related to having Arthur as a prince.”

 

Morgana snorted in amusement. “He has some… different theories , we can say.”

 

“Tell me he doesn't really think I had a crush on Edwin !” Merlin murmured in shock and terror. “Because, of course, Lancelot is one thing. If Gwen didn't like it, maybe... But Edwin ? Or Sophia ?”

 

"No. With Edwin, he just thinks that you were afraid of losing him and the same goes for Sophia.” Morgana frowned. “Well, for Edwin it's a little more complicated than that. He thinks that… well, he thinks that you had a good friendship, an understanding of some kind, and that the betrayal hurt you a lot.”

 

Merlin murmured. “Well, he's not entirely wrong, but I'm not suicidal.”

 

“You were using the sorceress.” Morgana couldn't help but point out. “ In broad daylight .”

 

“But no one believes me.” Merlin grimaced. “If Arthur saw me, he would ask me when I learned the art of juggling !”

 

Morgana nodded slowly. “Arthur mentioned a dragon…”

 

“Yes, does he think I'm hallucinating ?” Merlin asked, annoyed.

 

“No, he thinks it's for storytelling purposes , I guess.” Morgana grimaced. “It's quite original, I admit.”

 

"Thank you." Merlin replied, before huffing. “It's flattering, I suppose. And, yes, Kilgharrah. It's cryptic and you don't even get a clear, sensible answer corrupting him and yelling at him. But he told me of my destiny and..."

 

“Tell me about it.” Morgana smiled. “I would really like to know more.”

 

And Merlin did.

 

Morgana was not at all happy with what she was hearing.

She would have to talk to the overgrown lizard , and she would have to do it very soon.

Chapter 7: Morgana is done with the dragon

Summary:

Morgana just insults the dragon and protects Merlin

Notes:

Hi! Another chapter of this story, with a very protective Morgana!

 

Written for Merlin Bingo, BAMF Morgana

Morgana should have thought more about what to do next.  

 

At least, she mused, Merlin had decided to follow her anyway, arguing that enduring the dragon's nonsensical monologues alone was a cruel fate for anyone .

 

Morgana supposed he was just happy to finally have someone to bring into his very illegal activities.

 

“So, this is the dragon's cave.” Morgana wasn't even trying to seem surprised, though… “ How the hell did Uther drag a dragon in here ?”

 

“I think there's another entrance.” Merlin shrugged. “I never asked, honestly.”

 

Morgana sighed, before saying. “Frankly, I don't really care .”

 

A flutter of wings and a huge dragon appeared before them.

 

“I see you've brought a guest , young wizard.” The dragon said, looking at Morgana as if she were a meal offered to him.

 

Morgana scoffed at the idea.

 

As if Merlin would ever let that thing touch her.

 

“She decided she wanted to talk to you.” Merlin explained Morgana’s presence to the dragon, and Morgana was proud to see that his voice didn’t even tremble as he faced the enormous beast. “I saw no point in denying her the pleasure of your company .”

 

Oh, Morgana was really proud now, hearing Merlin’s sarcasm.

 

She had heard it directed at nobles and dignitaries before, but directed at a dragon it was somehow more pleasant .

 

“I see.” The dragon managed to convey a lot of disapproval through that one word. Morgana had a desire to use his tail as a rope to hang him somewhere .

 

“Merlin, can you give me and the dragon a few moments?” Morgana asked softly, smiling at Merlin. “We need to talk .”

 

“Oh, sure, I’ll wait back here.” Merlin nodded, smiling and walking towards the exit of the cave. Morgana supposed he would still be able to hear their conversation, but at least she could rough up the scaled manipulator at first.

 

“That was not a wise move, princess.” The dragon sneered. “I could very easily eat you right now.”

 

“Merlin knows I’m here and he knows I’m here with you .” Morgana shrugged. “Eat me and he’ll probably bring the roof of the cave down on your head in revenge.”

 

The dragon narrowed his eyes. “What do you want, exactly?”

 

“ Warn you .” Morgana smiled, a fierce, protective smile toward Merlin. “You are to stay away from Merlin, you are not to use him for your own purposes.”

 

“I have no idea what you’re talking about, princess.” The dragon bristled. “All I’m doing is for Merlin…”

 

“All you’re doing is using and indoctrinating him to get your revenge on Camelot and to get the freedom you so desperately want.” Morgana interrupted, raising a finger at him. “That’s not goodwill, that’s simple manipulation of a boy, a child !”

 

The dragon narrowed his eyes. “Careful how you speak to me, princess. You have no idea what I could—”

 

“I know Uther managed to get you in here, so you’re not infallible .” Morgana scoffed. “And I know you want freedom so badly that you’d manipulate one of your own into getting it. I don’t know if the prophecy is real, if Arthur is the Once and Future King, or if Merlin is actually Emrys. Mordred seemed to be in favor of the Prophecy, but that doesn’t change the fact that none of the three have a designated role to play, and that you are no one to manipulate Merlin into something he isn’t, something he will never be !”

 

The dragon remained silent, which Morgana appreciated since he wasn’t finished yet.

 

“What we will do now is the following.” Morgana said, speaking clearly and firmly. “You are done manipulating Merlin. You have said your piece, no one asks you anything else . Merlin will come to you if he needs magical knowledge and you will give him the answers, clear and without tricks , without asking for anything in return.”

 

“Should I help him out of the pure goodness of my heart?” The dragon scoffed.

 

Morgana narrowed her eyes. The dragon wasn’t all that smart, since he had confirmed Morgana’s hypothesis about how he had manipulated Merlin up until that point.

 

She only hoped that Merlin hadn’t heard him and that Morgana could only convey the dragon’s decision as one made out of affection .

 

“You will help him because you are of the same people and because Merlin is a child ! A cub , if you will, for dragons!” Morgana corrected him. “That is what you will do, and that is the reason. Of course, as soon as Arthur is king, or Uther is dead, you will be freed. And that will only happen after we are certain that you are prevented from attacking all of Camelot for your revenge.”

 

“Why would I hurt innocents?” The dragon asked, tilting his head, mocking Morgana.

 

“You were willing to hurt Mordred and Merlin , one physically and the other mentally.” Morgana retorts, raising an eyebrow. “Forgive me if I believe you are capable of hurting innocents for no other reason than revenge .”

 

The dragon chuckled. “And what if I say no ?”

 

“You will remain down here forever , and I will take Merlin somewhere else to receive a proper education .” Morgana replied. “ And , when Arthur is king, I will ask him to knock down the cave, burying you down here, no way in, and no way to manipulate the sorcerers who will have a home here.”

 

The dragon sighed, looking at Morgana seriously, before huffing and nodding. “You have a deal, princess. I will hold up my end.”

 

“Very well.” Morgana said. “I will let you know more later. Right now, I have other things to plan.”

 

In fact, Morgana thought, as she walked back to Merlin, she had an idea that she was sure would be supported by Arthur for their plan to help Merlin.

Chapter 8: Merlin has some thoughts (not very good) about himself, and Morgana has a surprise

Summary:

The title is a good summary, right? XD

Notes:

Hi! New chapter!

This is for Merlin Bingo, self-deprecation

Merlin was looking out the window. 

 

Morgana had spoken to the dragon, and Merlin hadn’t listened out of respect for the princess, the only one who had deigned to listen to him in the first place.

 

Well, he hadn’t listened because he had no desire to listen to the dragon’s riddles when they weren’t directed at him. Why would he torture himself like that?

 

“Merlin?”

 

Merlin looked up, seeing Morgana striding toward him, with the elegant and regal manner she shared with Arthur.

 

They probably took lessons as children, Merlin mused. Uther also moved in a similar way, though less elegantly given his age, and he would have wanted his children to walk the same way.

 

Yes, it could be something Uther would have deemed of fundamental importance .

 

“Lady Morgana.” Merlin bowed his head to the noblewoman, smiling when he saw the grimace that crossed her face.

 

He had discovered, rather by accident , that the best way to annoy Morgana and Arthur was to address them with the respect their positions required.

 

Totally hilarious.

 

“Merlin, I would like you to come with me.” Morgana then said, regaining control of her features and overcoming the discomfort of realising that Merlin had chosen to show respect that day.

 

“Of course, my lady.” Merlin agreed, knowing Morgana well enough to realise that she wasn’t asking if Merlin wanted to come, but that she was demanding it.

 

If only it were as easy to figure out what Arthur wanted and, more importantly, protect him.

 

Fate had chosen the wrong person, Merlin swallowed.

 

He had warned Kilgharrah, but now he realised more and more that he had no chance of protecting Arthur, not when he had just allowed his future murderer to live.

 

He knew he couldn’t kill Mordred, and he hated himself for the way he would let Uther do it, washing his hands of it.

 

Merlin was a hypocrite.

 

“Where are we going?” Merlin asked, blinking and realising that something was wrong.

 

Getting lost in guilt could have side effects, like not realising what was going on around him.

 

A perfect quality in someone who was supposed to protect Arthur Pendragon.

 

“I have a surprise for you, Merlin.” Morgana announced. “Actually, Arthur and I did it together.”

 

Merlin murmured, intrigued.

 

Had Morgana finally managed to convince Arthur that Merlin really did have magic?

 

Did Merlin even want Arthur to realise that Merlin had magic and had therefore truly failed in the simple task of protecting him?

 

Would Arthur hate him?

 

“I’m intrigued.” Merlin confessed, choosing not to speak about the other emotions that flooded him. Curiosity, fear, dread, hope, and others he couldn’t even place.

 

“And I’m sure you’ll love it.” Morgana hummed, ignoring or not realising the pain in Merlin’s words.

 

Merlin hummed in agreement.

 

When they finally reached a room, Morgana turned with a smile.

 

“Ready?”

 

Merlin nodded, knowing he didn’t exactly have a choice.

 

The door opened and Merlin’s jaw dropped.

 

“What are you doing here?!”

Chapter 9: The unexpected visitor and someone is jealous

Summary:

Merlin talks with an old friend and Arthur feels insecure about himself. Morgana is amazing.

Notes:

Hi! And we find out who was the 'surprise' !

Written for: Merlin Bingo - Good Morgana

Merlin couldn’t believe his eyes.

 

Standing before him, in all the glory of a grey t-shirt and brown trousers, was Lancelot.

 

“I thought I’d never see you again!” Merlin exclaimed, running over to give his friend a huge hug, sighing in happiness as the other’s strong arms reciprocated the embrace.

 

“My friend.” Lancelot was smiling. “I’m so happy to see you. I’ve missed you. The letters just weren’t enough.”

 

Merlin smiled even more. “It’s never enough. But what are you doing here?”

 

“As Lady Morgana pointed out, I was never banished.” Lancelot spoke, gesturing toward the door where, Merlin noticed only then, Morgana must have left the room again, leaving the two to speak in relative privacy. “And I’ve been informed by a very worried Arthur that you’ve been confessing to having magic every time something happens.”

 

“Well, I started some time ago, you see.” Merlin said. “I saved Gwen’s father from death, and then Gwen was blamed for my actions, and I couldn’t live with myself knowing I’d caused her death. She was innocent. I confessed before the king, and they didn’t even believe me.” Merlin shrugged. “I keep telling the truth to everyone, even about the gryphon incident, I haven’t lied to Arthur, but he simply doesn’t believe me.”

 

“Lady Morgana believes you, though.” Lancelot said gravely. “And although I’m glad to see I’m not the only one who understands your goodness and your merits, it worries me to think that if she could see you, others less honourable and without good intentions could have seen you as well.”

 

Merlin lowered his gaze, feeling chastised. “Only Arthur would have entered.”

 

“And in that case, wouldn’t you have thought it would be equally bad if Arthur saw your magic with his own eyes?” Lancelot insisted.

 

“Well, I just hoped he would start believing me, Lancelot!” Merlin shook his head, clearly hurt by Arthur’s constant dismissal of his powers. “Every time I try to confess my powers, he acts as if I have a crush on someone and can’t stand the rejection, or as if I’m trying to cope with some pain and then simply decided that the best way out is to confess I have something that justifies the death penalty here in Camelot!” Merlin swallowed. “I thought lying was lonely , but not being believed is so much worse .”

 

Lancelot felt his heart stop at the raw pain written on Merlin’s face. “I know it hurts, but Arthur has your best interests at heart, as does Morgana. They sent me to call, hoping I would bring you some comfort, Merlin. It’s not something they do for those who don’t matter or who aren’t important in the eyes of those who look.”

 

Merlin looked at him confused. “I’m not sure I understand.”

 

“Every sorcerer he’s met has been evil, and Uther told him that anyone who uses magic is evil, with no hope of recovery or salvation.” Lancelot explained clearly. “And you’re neither evil nor cruel. Arthur can’t believe that you possess magic because that would force him to question the words and teachings of his father and king, repeated throughout his life. And Arthur doesn’t have the heart to realise that his father can make mistakes.”

 

“He did that with you.” Merlin protested. “And he recognised both Gwen’s innocence and the need to save Mordred, because he didn’t deserve to die just for being a druid.”

 

“And these growths are certainly due to his proximity to you, according to Gwen and Lady Morgana’s accounts of Arthur’s character.” Lancelot smiled. “Accept the compliment and the credit you clearly deserve, Merlin, without making excuses or feeling guilty about things beyond your control.”

 

“But Mordred…” Merlin began to protest.

 

Lancelot shook his head. “He’s a child right now. He may grow up and become what you fear, or he might become an ally, or you may never cross paths again. Just as you and I might never have seen each other again, and yet we did.”

 

“I knew we’d meet again.” Merlin shook his head. “ I felt it .”

 

“And you felt that killing Mordred was the right thing to do?” Lancelot challenged Merlin, already knowing what his answer would be.

 

“No. It felt wrong , but it also felt like I had no other choice.” Merlin admitted.

 

“There’s always a choice, Merlin, even when it seems desperate .” Lancelot said. “Come now. Morgana must have much to say.”

 

---

 

Meanwhile, as Lancelot and Merlin spoke, Morgana had gone in search of Arthur.

 

“Did Merlin meet with Lancelot?” Arthur asked, looking up from the papers in front of him.

 

“Yes, and he’s extremely happy.” Morgana said proudly. She had missed that smile, buried beneath the guilt from some words spoken by a foolish lizard .

 

“Good.” Arthur grumbled, not seeming at all pleased with the development.

 

Morgana raised an eyebrow at Arthur, clearly confused.

 

“It’s nothing.” Arthur muttered.

 

“It’s clearly something .” Morgana denied. “Come on, spit out what’s bothering you.”

 

“ I couldn’t contact Merlin, couldn’t make him feel better, and Lancelot manages to do it in less than ten minutes.” Arthur shook his head. “I feel completely incapable and useless as a friend.”

 

“The fact that you’re finally admitting Merlin is your friend, I think that speaks to the personal and moral growth Merlin must surely appreciate.” Morgana rolled her eyes. “And maybe you didn’t speak to him directly, but you were the one who realised something was wrong with Merlin, since he confided in you about something that could have gotten him killed…”

 

“Merlin doesn’t have magic.” Arthur denied immediately. “He’s never been in danger of dying.”

 

“Nor was Gwen ,” Morgana replied, deciding not to insist on Merlin before Arthur convinced himself that Morgana wanted to see Merlin dead and tried to praise him in Morgana’s eyes for the rest of their days, “but that didn’t save her from Uther’s petty rage against magic.”

 

Arthur lowered his head, conceding Morgana’s point.

 

“And, let me remind you, it was your idea to find Lancelot and bring him to Camelot for Merlin . He may not smile for you, but deep down, it’s also thanks to you that Merlin feels better now.”

 

Arthur smiled at Morgana’s words.  

“I think that’s the nicest thing you’ve ever said to me.”

 

Morgana scoffed. “Don’t get used to it. I only say it because you seem rather pathetic right now, and it’s not fun to pile on when someone’s already down .”

 

Arthur laughed. “Whatever helps you sleep at night, Morgana.”

 

Morgana hissed. “Next time, I’ll leave you alone to wallow in the knowledge that Merlin has another favourite, no matter how much you try to win him over!”

 

Arthur’s laughter followed Morgana out of the chambers.

 

This was what Morgana got for being kind.

 

Stupid fool .

Chapter 10: A sword for a king

Summary:

Merlin, Lancelot and Morgana work together. Arthur is still worried.

Notes:

Hi! i hope you'll like this!

Written for Merlin Bingo hurt/comfort

“Your plan is to use the dragon to create an incredible magical sword .” Lancelot said, raising an eyebrow at Merlin, not at all pleased with his friend.

 

“ Yes !” Merlin smiled. “Geoffrey made it clear: only a sword forged by the breath of a dragon can kill someone who is already dead! And I have a dragon in the dungeon just waiting to be useful!”

 

Morgana smiled, lounging on the couch in their room, much more private than the physician’s quarters. “I threatened him into submission.”

 

Merlin smiled even wider. “You did! Now, Lancelot, you must make sure to warn Arthur of the attempt they will make to prevent him from facing the wraith!”

 

Lancelot shook his head. “No, it must come from you . You will warn him of the threat his father and Gaius pose to him, while I go to Gwen to retrieve a sword for Arthur.”

 

Merlin and Morgana gave him a sly smile, making him blush.

 

“Don’t… don’t look at me like that ! My intentions…” Lancelot stammered, making the two ravens laugh even more.

 

“They don’t matter right now.” Morgana stood up, even if she looked at Lancelot making it clear that they will have a discussion on the topic. “I had a terrible nightmare last night and I’m going to waste Gaius and the king’s time with my ramblings of a fragile girl, as Uther likes to call me.”

 

Merlin nodded, approving the plan. “I’ll go see Arthur, then.”

 

***

 

Arthur raised an eyebrow when he saw Merlin standing in the doorway.

 

“You should knock on the door, you know? That’s exactly why it exists.” Arthur warned.

 

“To be opened when I need to come in?” Merlin tilted his head. “Makes sense, yes. Now, on to why I’m here.”

 

“ I thought it was to serve me lunch,” Arthur commented, glancing at Merlin’s very empty arms. “But it seems absurd to think that you can do your job .”

 

“Considering how many times I saved your life, I think it’s time to discuss my pay as well.” Merlin added, after a moment of careful consideration . “But we can do that after I save your life again using my magic.”

 

Arthur sighed. He had hoped that Lancelot’s arrival would stop Merlin from his descending depression , but it seemed that recovery was a long way off.

 

Arthur could understand that: for someone raised in a village, Camelot might be too much to bear, especially for someone as sweet and pure as Merlin was.

 

“ Someone else will bring you lunch, don’t worry,” Merlin said, mistaking Arthur’s silence for concern for his meal. “Now, as I imagine you’ve figured out for yourself, at least I hope so since you’ll one day have to lead an entire kingdom , your father is not happy that you’re challenging a warrior who cannot be killed by any weapon created by man.”

 

Arthur nodded, deciding to ignore Merlin’s insult for the moment.

 

“My father’s displeasure is known to all citizens , Mer lin.” Arthur replied.

 

Merlin sighed. “So you haven’t even noticed it yourself, but you’ve been told.” The servant ran a hand over his face. “Never mind, I have time to teach you to think , and if necessary, there’s always Morgana .” He muttered, before looking back at Arthur and saying, “You also know that your father is, and I say this with all due respect , a very great hypocrite , and that, while he would do nothing for the people he swore t o protect as you did just two days ago, and I say this very respectfully , he would do something very dishonorable in your name, fighting in your place and making all of Camelot believe that the newly crowned crown prince does not have enough honor in himself to keep his word in a formally declared and accepted duel.”

 

“ Respectfully , I suppose.” Arthur sighed, deciding to ignore the insults that had been aimed at his father as well. “Well, what do you think he’ll do?”

 

“Keeping you locked in your rooms won’t work, because you’ll run away stupidly and fall out the window to your death.” Merlin clicked his tongue. “So, he’ll just drug you and then lock the door. By the time you wake up, the duel will be over.”

 

“How do you know?” Arthur asked, blinking in surprise and almost admiration.

 

“That’s what I would do, of course.” Merlin shrugged.

 

The admiration turned into a healthy dose of fear.

 

His servant was a criminal. Wonderful .

 

“Okay… Do you have a plan?” Arthur asked, narrowing his eyes.

 

“I’ll bring you a new sword by tomorrow, stay with Morgana until it’s time for the fight.” Merlin said. “Don’t worry about the rest, I’ve got it all under control.”

 

Arthur sighed. “ Of course. ”

 

Merlin smiled. “Great, just try not to get into trouble.” As he left the rooms, Merlin added. “Since you might be drugged by your meal, I’ve instructed George to bring you lunch while I go about my illegal activities of making you a sword fit for a king!”

 

Arthur smiled despite himself, before daring to ask. “Even if you had magic, and I’m not saying you do, but wouldn’t a sword you made be a sword made by a man?”

 

“Of course!” Merlin nodded, looking proud of Arthur for his deduction. “That’s why a dragon will do it!”

 

Then, he walked out of the room, leaving Arthur alone, blinking in bewilderment.

 

He was beginning to believe that the road to protecting Merlin would be the most difficult mission Arthur had ever undertaken.

 

And if a part of him felt heartened by the fact that Merlin clearly needed him to heal, and that Lancelot wasn’t enough, well… there was no one to judge him.

 

(Morgana had been judging him from the moment she entered his chambers until she left the armory.

 

Well, no one but Morgana was there to judge him.)

Notes:

Can we appreciate this:

Arthur: Merlin is so pure and sweet
Merlin talking to Lancelot in the meantime: And then, I killed him.
Lancelot: It seems fair.

Chapter 11: The Moment of Truth

Summary:

Merlin is injuried and Arthur and Hunith talk

Notes:

Hi! I had to admit, the first time I read the title of this episode, I thought that Arthur would finally know that Merlin had magic. Spoiler alert: He did not.

(Why it is called Moment of Truth, if Arthur doesn't learn the truth???)

Anway, written for: Merlin Bingo - major injuries

“It’s just a little stab .” Merlin shook his head. “It’s okay, I’ve been stabbed before.”

 

Merlin honestly didn’t understand all the drama that Lancelot, Gwen, Morgana, and Arthur were making.

 

And he really hoped Arthur wouldn’t accuse him of having feelings for Kaenen or himself , otherwise Merlin would just turn him into a toad and then ask him if he still thought Merlin was lying .

 

No, wait, that wasn’t as bright an idea as it sounded (although Merlin did find it hilarious , at least).

 

The sword Kilgharrah had forged was shining in Arthur’s hand, even though the prince had thrown it to the ground, rather unkindly and without thinking about all the work Merlin would have to do to restore it to its former glory.

 

Rude .

 

“Merlin, don’t move.” Arthur’s voice sounded panicked as more citizens of Ealdor appeared behind him, Matthew, his mother, and Will on the first line.

 

Will, in particular, looked ready to kill Arthur .

 

“It’s your fault!” Will shouted. “I told you you’d get us killed!”

 

“Merlin’s not dead yet !” Arthur shouted back, applying pressure to the wound and turning to glare at Will.

 

Merlin sighed. “Tell me you’re not going to start a fight while I’m here injured?”

 

Arthur and Will froze, looking at him in embarrassment and proving that yes, they had every intention of fighting while Merlin was bleeding on the ground.

 

Rude .

 

“Lance, Morgana, could you help me get in?” Merlin asked, turning to the two more sensible people to his left. “Gwen, I left a basin of water near the edge of the field just to tend to the wounded. You can bring it in. Unless there are more wounded?” Merlin turned to look at those who had once shared their fields with him, but they were all fine.

 

Merlin knew they all knew about his magic, and he really appreciated that none of them had sold him out to the Prince of Camelot yet.

 

Not that Arthur would believe them.

 

Merlin could only imagine his mother’s expression if she knew Merlin kept confessing to Arthur, Uther’s son , about having magic .

 

It wasn’t something Merlin wanted to imagine.

 

***

 

Arthur had eyes.

 

And he realised that there was a distance between Merlin and most of his former neighbors, except for his mother, that Matthew his mother spent a lot of time with, and Will, the boy who had hated him since day one, in a way that was very Merlin-lik e, but without Merlin’s witty remarks.

 

Arthur had also seen that, although the others of Ealdor were wary of Merlin, they had all also turned pale and looked fearfully at Merlin when Arthur admitted that he was the Prince of Camelot.

 

“Here, I brought you some water.”

 

Arthur turned to see Hunith standing beside him, a gentle smile on her face.

 

She had Merlin’s smile, and his same blue eyes, and it was that combination that reassured Arthur more than anything else.

 

“Thank you.” Arthur accepted the glass, bowing his head in thanks.

 

“It is we who should be thanking you, Arthur.” Hunith replied, smiling gently and sitting down beside Arthur on the bench in her house. “Without you, we would have lost our home and our children would never have seen another summer.”

 

“I would have done it any time,” Arthur confessed. “For Merlin, I would do this and more .”

 

Hunith was silent for a moment, and Arthur feared he had over-confided.

 

He could only imagine what the citizens of Essetir thought of Camelot.

 

“You care about him, don’t you?” Hunith asked, tilting her head. “I admit, when I decided to send my son to my uncle, I had my doubts. Gaius isn’t as young as he used to be, and Merlin is so young , only fifteen. I didn’t think he would be able to settle well in Camelot, just as he had struggled to find his place here .”

 

“Merlin told me about it.” Arthur swallowed, deciding not to mention that while he had said he had been unable to settle in, Merlin had added that none of the others really wanted to have a magic-user in their home, and that the first time he had created a small blue butterfly out of thin air , some of the other children had tried to drown him, to free them from the possibility of being killed by Camelot. Hunith really didn't need to know about her son's penchant for confessing to the son of the king who had declared war on magic.

 

And Arthur really didn't want to know what would drive people to try to drown not only Merlin, but a child .

 

That Merlin had chosen to explain it using magic was only understandable.

 

It was better to believe that he was almost killed for something deemed evil than for who he was .

 

Arthur understood, and his heart sank as he realised how muc h his best friend had suffered .

 

Then, something else that Hunith had said entered Arthur's mind. "Fifteen? Merlin is only fifteen ?"

 

"Yes." Hunith confirmed, smiling slightly. "He has always behaved very maturely, so I had no qualms about sending him alone to Camelot. Is he behaving well?"

 

"Very well." Arthur answered quickly. "Although now that I know he is only fifteen, many other behaviors that were previously inexplicable now take on an explanation."

 

And they also scared him a lot more, because Merlin was a child who lied and risked being killed with his explanations!

 

And Arthur knew that Merlin was too intelligent for it to all be reduced to a simple game as he had seen during his delegations to Essetir when his father had gone to discuss peace with Cenred.

 

Arthur did not remember the discussion he and Hunith had afterward, but he remembered very well that he had looked for his sister, now free of Merlin's care, who was laughing with Will, Lancelot and Gwen, and that he had said, speaking in a low voice,

 

"Morgana, things with Merlin are worse than we thought." Arthur had murmured. "It started when he was just a baby, and he's fifteen now."

 

Morgana's expression was horrified.

 

Arthur felt a new determination creeping into him.

 

Merlin would never again feel that he deserved to suffer as he must have always done, to the point of confessing to possessing what was the greatest evil in the world.

 

Merlin would feel safe with Arthur.

 

No matter how long it took.

 

Chapter 12: Camelot's people have no taste ~ Arthur is jealous

Summary:

Arthur regrets a choice he made.
Merlin is usual self

Notes:

Hi! I hope you'll like this!
I wanted to make a lightly one because the next one is Gedref and Merlin is going to cry a lot.
Ups, spoilers...

Well...

Written for: Merlin Bingo - Humor
(I laughed so much writing it, but my humor could be broken)

Arthur let out a sigh.

 

He should’ve known calling Lancelot would never have been a good idea.

 

“Why the sulk, Arthur?” Morgana asked, walking over to where Arthur was leaning.

 

“I am mourning the lack of food and cleanliness in my chambers,” Arthur replied.

 

His eyes were fixed on where Gwen, Merlin, and Lancelot were speaking quietly.

 

Arthur thought he had every right to be aware of what they were doing.

 

Apparently, the last time they were together, they broke the law .

 

Morgana followed his gaze. “I thought George had sorted you out. Otherwise, I’m impressed you’ve figured out how to dress yourself .”

 

Arthur shot her a dry look.

 

“The last time I saw Merlin was when we left to save Ealdor,” Arthur mentioned. “Since we’ve returned and settled back in, chores are being done when Merlin should be with me, and instead he’s spending all his time with Lancelot .”

 

Morgana stayed quiet for a moment before asking, “Well, has he confessed to having magic this week?”

 

“No,” Arthur admitted with a pout. “But he doesn’t need to avoid me just to stop being depressed. Otherwise, I’m starting to believe I was the only reason Merlin wanted to die.”

 

Morgana snorted, clearly unable to summon any kind of empathy .

 

“I’ll tell Gwen to make sure Merlin comes to tuck you in tonight, Arthur,” Morgana teased. “And I’ll let him know you’re incapable of living without him.”

 

“I am not incapable of living without him,” Arthur grumbled at her retreating back. “I’m just not entirely sure I want to .”

 

***

 

“...And then Lancelot said…”

 

As promised by Morgana, Merlin had turned up with Arthur’s dinner and stayed until Arthur decided it was time to go to bed.

 

But everything coming out of Merlin’s mouth was just praise for Lancelot .

 

Lancelot said this, Lancelot found a beautiful stream where Merlin could rest, Lancelot laid down his cloak for Merlin to sit on, Lancelot helped him gather herbs.

 

It was always Lancelot .

 

“Are you returning to your duties tomorrow, or will you be off with Lancelot again?” Arthur asked, raising a brow at him.

 

His servant had the audacity to seem insulted by the question.

 

“I have done my duties!” Merlin defended himself. “ All of them !”

 

“I’m not so sure,” Arthur said flatly.

 

“What haven’t I done?” Merlin challenged, crossing his arms.

 

“You didn’t bring me breakfast or lunch,” Arthur said.

 

“I told George to do it,” Merlin replied quickly. “Which, in case you don’t know—which is worrying , because you’ll be king one day and ought to know —is actually part of my rights and duties.”

 

“You didn’t dress me,” Arthur pointed out again.

 

“I told George where to find the clothes you’d need for all your engagements, and I washed the dirty ones—they’re back in your chambers.” Merlin gestured to Arthur’s wardrobe, as if Arthur had any idea what was in it.

 

“You weren’t there during training,” Arthur said. “And before you say anything—neither was George .”

 

“No, but Camelot’s squire was there, ready to assist you with the weapon changes,” Merlin noted. “As you know, that’s his job .”

 

“You’re usually there,” Arthur muttered, confused.

 

“And this time I wasn’t.” Merlin nodded. “It’s those observational skills that make you the perfect prince.”

 

“I haven’t seen you all day, ” Arthur protested.

 

“Being your servant doesn’t mean being glued to your side all day long ,” Merlin said, frowning. “Gwen isn’t with Morgana every moment. ”

 

Arthur paused, realising he was the only one who always had his servant nearby.

 

“Well, but…” Arthur swallowed, trying to find the best way to order Merlin to stay with him and not go wandering off with Lancelot.

 

“Oh,” Merlin gasped. “You’re jealous of Lancelot!”

 

“ Of course not, ” Arthur protested.

 

“Why not?” Merlin frowned. “Lancelot’s perfect . Kind, selfless, brave, skilled with a sword, protective, loyal, sweet. You should be jealous.”

 

Arthur hissed and narrowed his eyes at him.

 

“I mean,” Merlin went on, “Lancelot’s perfect. You… not so much. ”

 

“I’m the prince,” Arthur growled.

 

“Yeah, and how many people have tried to kill you because of that ?” Merlin asked—a rhetorical question, because they both knew the number was far too high. “I’m just saying, no one’s tried to kill Lancelot .”

 

“No one knows him,” Arthur muttered. “And that’s the only reason he hasn’t been targeted. Not everyone likes Lancelot, you know?”

 

“Wait, who doesn’t like Lancelot?” Merlin asked, as if that were the gravest concern .

 

“Will you be with me tomorrow or not?” Arthur asked again, knowing it would be ignored.

 

“Who doesn’t like Lancelot?” Merlin pressed.

 

“What, do you want a list ?”

 

“There are so man y that you need a list ?” Merlin exclaimed, horrified. “Do the people of Camelot have no taste ? Or brain ?”

 

Arthur hissed. Then, with a smirk, said, “I’ll only tell you if you stay with me tomorrow.”

 

Merlin narrowed his eyes. “Are you blackmailing me?”

 

“Precisely,” Arthur nodded. “You’re my servant, you’re supposed to follow me everywhere.”

 

Merlin stood still, unimpressed.

 

With a sigh, Arthur corrected himself. “You’re my friend. And I missed you.”

 

“All right.” Merlin sighed. “I’ll come with you.”

 

Arthur smiled, even if he shouldn’t have had to threaten his servant into doing his job.

 

“Now give me those names,” Merlin said, sitting in front of him and picking up Arthur’s parchment and quill.

 

“Er—what are you going to do to them?” Arthur asked, suddenly worried for the population of Camelot.

 

Merlin tilted his head. “They have no taste. Are they people you’d miss?”

 

“Merlin, you can’t kill someone just because they don’t like Lancelot!” Arthur groaned.

 

“Fine.” Merlin sighed, as if Arthur were being unreasonable. “I’ll only use my magic to turn them into statues. No one’s noticed the increase of dogs around Camelot—they won’t notice a few more statues.”

 

Arthur groaned.

 

Apparently, Merlin hadn’t stopped admitting to having magic, even with Lancelot around.

 

At least, Arthur considered, he wasn’t blaming or belittling himself anymore. He was just… making jokes .

That was an improvement , right?

Notes:

Merlin: You're not Lancelot.
Arthur: Not everyone likes Lancelot!
Merlin: What do you mean?

Merlin: *going off to kill people*
Arthur: No killing.
Merlin: Okay. *sad noises*. I will turn them into statues.
Arthur: What?
Merlin, pointing at the dogs: They were statues before and no one noticed. You aren't noticing that I have magic. I'm pretty sure I can turn them into statues and no one is going to notice that.
Arthur: ....
Merlin: Stupid people.

Chapter 13: Unicorns

Summary:

They look for solutions.
Merlin suffers

Notes:

Hi! I hope you'll like this chapter!

Written for: Merlin Bingo - Healers

“He killed a unicorn!” Merlin shouted, looking at Gaius. “He killed a unicorn and now Camelot is dying, and you tell me those things aren’t connected?”

 

“ Merlin !” Gaius regarded him sternly. “You can’t go around saying things like that !” His gaze flicked to the door of the physician’s chambers, where, down the stairs, guards stood watch.

 

“I can if we’re going to ignore the truth !” Merlin protested. “And Arthur is his usual self, ignoring me every time I state the facts!”

 

“Merlin, please, don’t interrupt me when I’m trying to solve the problem,” Gaius reproached him. “If you’d be so kind as to take your concerns elsewhere.”

 

“Of course, I wouldn’t want to spoil your scientific process,” Merlin huffed. “Especially with my own foolishness.”

 

Before Gaius could reply—whether to excuse him or to scold him further—Merlin left the physician’s chambers, knowing he would have to sort matters out himself. As often seemed to happen in Camelot, at least.

 

***

 

“So, Arthur killed a unicorn.” Morgana said, her voice both sharp and shaken.

 

“Exactly.” Merlin nodded, casting a glance at Gwen and Lancelot.

 

Gwen had come to accept that Merlin apparently practised magic, and once she realised he had indeed saved her father’s life, she had embraced him firmly and sternly forbidden him ever to reveal to a soul that he was a sorcerer, for fear of losing him.

 

Since no one else believed him, Merlin wasn’t overly worried about that possibility.

 

“And after he killed the unicorn, the crops began to rot, the water turned to sand and, quite likely, we’ll all perish within no time at all.” Morgana continued.

 

“Quite likely.” Merlin agreed.

 

“And Gaius doesn’t think it has anything to do with the unicorn?” Morgana raised an eyebrow. “Is he being foolish?”

 

“Perhaps he’s in denial.” Gwen ventured tentatively.

 

“Being in denial in this situation is foolish.” Morgana retorted, shaking her head. “I’m not saying he should storm off to Uther and shout about witchcraft, but… I don’t know, he could consider involving Arthur.”

 

“Arthur is the one who has killed the unicorn.” Lancelot pointed out. “Perhaps he won’t involve him because of Uther?”

 

“Arthur has upset the balance, and Arthur must set it right.” Merlin said. “Kilgharrah told me the balance must be maintained.”

 

“So, Arthur might be the solution.” Morgana nodded. “He must be warned.”

 

“ How ?” Merlin spread his arms in exasperation. “Gaius has no intention of mentioning magic, and Arthur will think I’ve fallen in love with the unicorn if I try to warn him! Or that I’d rather burn out quickly than starve to death.”

 

“Well, it would be a quicker death.” Morgana seemed to consider it. “All right, I’ll tell Arthur myself.”

 

“Or what if we sought more proof, or solved the problem ourselves?” Gwen suggested. “Perhaps we can approach Arthur with a hypothetical solution, or at least some evidence.”

 

Merlin furrowed his brow, thoughtful. “Well, if I’m not alone, Arthur will probably believe me and won’t decide I’m depressed and suicidal.”

 

“Perfect, we’ll do exactly that.” Morgana clapped her hands. “Everyone gets to work.”

 

***

 

“Arthur, we think we know what’s happening to Camelot.” Merlin entered with parchments gathered from Geoffrey. “Morgana asked Geoffrey for these; she’ll arrive later with Gwen,” he added, inclining his head.

 

“I see.” Arthur raised an eyebrow. “Does it concern the old man you said you saw?”

 

“According to Geoffrey, I wasn’t the only one to see him.” Merlin protested. “And there are other recorded instances where someone glimpsed him. In some of those cases, the kingdom recovered after certain… particular circumstances that I’m sure we can recreate without issue.”

 

Arthur nodded.

 

Merlin smiled before beginning to explain. “Anhora is his name. He is said to be a sort of guardian of nature—the very essence of innocence at its peak.”

 

“Oh, for heaven’s sake, it’s still about the unicorn?” Arthur shook his head. “Don’t be so soft, Merlin!”

 

“It’s not about being soft. Geoffrey said there are records of kingdoms where a unicorn was slain and displayed as a trophy, and the realm died. Not Camelot, but ancient kingdoms that have vanished from the maps!” Merlin exclaimed.

 

“I won’t trust a sorcerer like Anhora!” Arthur raised his voice.

 

“Anhora isn’t exactly a sorcerer; he’s more of a… caretaker .” Merlin explained. “There’s really nothing harmful in—”

 

“When will you learn, Merlin?” Arthur exclaimed. “You can’t trust sorcerers! They’re deceitful monsters who will kill you the moment your guard is down!”

 

Merlin froze.

 

Deceitful monsters waiting for the chance to strike.

 

That was what Arthur thought of him .

 

“I’m sorry to have troubled you.” Merlin murmured. “I’ll leave you in peace, sire.”

 

Then, gathering the parchments, he departed the chambers.

 

Morgana stopped him. “Merlin! You seem… well, this time you really do seem truly desperate and depressed.”

 

Deceitful monsters waiting for the chance to strike.

 

“Arthur will not be able to break the curse.” Merlin murmured. “He is not pure enough of heart.”

Notes:

Next chapter: Morgana and Arthur will have a conversation XP

Chapter 14: It isn't fun, is it?

Summary:

Arthur and Merlin face Anhora. Merlin is a little shit. Arthur regrets everything.

Notes:

Hi! I hope you'll like this!

Written for: Merlin Bingo - Suicide attempt

“What are you doing here?”

Arthur tried to not get hurt at Merlin's disbelief, knowing it was partly due to his own behaviour.

“I was told by Gaius that you were collecting herbs, by Morgana that you were helping Gwen with something, and by Gwen that you were polishing my armour.” Arthur explained, watching Merlin as he sat in front of him. “I just thought you went off doing something illegal.”

Merlin had the audacity of looking insulted at Arthur's words.
“I never did something illegal!” He shouted.

“I'm sorry, didn't you forged Lancelot's sigil?” Arthur reminded him.

Merlin looked at where Lancelot stood. Arthur tried to not get hurt by the fact that Merlin thought Lancelot to be pure of heart and not Arthur.

“Why are you here?” Merlin asked. “As far as I remembered, you didn't believe me when I told you about the curse.”

Arthur gulped. “I just wanted to… make you happy.”

“Make me happy?!” Merlin sounded shocked. “And that's not a good way to prove yourself…”

Arthur smiled sadly at Merlin's sudden pause.
“Pure of heart enough to lift the curse?”

Merlin jumped, looking guilty. “Arthur, I…”

“You don't need to justify yourself, not with me and not about this.” Arthur was quick to say. “It is my fault, not yours. And I'm sorry for that.”

Merlin blinked. “Arthur…”

The prince looked at the sorcerer. “So, what's the test?”

“There are two goblets before you. One of the goblets contains a deadly poison, the other goblet, a harmless liquid. All the liquid from both goblets must be drunk, but each of you may only drink from a single goblet.” the old man told them.

“What would this prove?” Merlin asked, frowning. “And why is there always a poisoned chalice? It was already done!”

“Merlin…” Lancelot muttered.

“Well, they could at least be original.” Merlin pouted, before looking intensively at the two chalices.

“There must be a way around it.” Arthur muttered.

“It is perfectly simple. One of us has to die.” Merlin said, talking with a serene face, as if deadly threats were normal to face.

“And how are we supposed to get the right goblet?” Arthur asked. “They're identical!”

“Pretty simple, actually. It is a simple riddle.” Merlin shrugged. “We pour all the liquid into one goblet and then we can be sure it is poisoned. Then all the liquid can be drunk, and it will be from a single goblet.”

“You never cease to surprise me. You're a lot smarter than you look.” Arthur smiled. Then, he knew what he had to do to make Merlin understand he was enough.

Without hesitation, Arthur poured all the liquid into his goblet and he drank it before Merlin could even protest.

 

****

 

Arthur woke up with a groan.

“Hey.” Merlin said, talking very loudly. “You tried to kill yourself and failed.” Then, after a pause. “In a very dramatic way, I might add.”

Arthur shook his head. “How did I survive?”

“Since Anhora is an evil sorcerer, the poison was actually just some sleep helper.” Merlin replied. “So, well done! You were wrong!”

Arthur sighed. “I was about to die, could you please not…?”

“Just one thing.” Merlin said, raising a hand and looking with big blue eyes at Arthur. “Just because someone rejected you, it doesn't mean you have to die.”

“Merlin!” Arthur exclaimed.

“It isn't fun when they tell you, right?” Merlin yelled, walking out the room. “Don't ever say that to me ever again! I will actually kill you!”

“That's treason!” Arthur exploded, before letting himself fall again on his bed.

Chapter 15: I'm not in love with you

Summary:

Merlin and Arthur takes some time off

Notes:

Hi! So, I won't write the episode where Tom dies, but I'll write the next one.

Which is... after this crack moment... Okay. Whump is on its way.

Written for - Merlin Bingo, Pretend Relationship

“Can we put it in writing that I didn't want to come ?” Merlin asked.

 

They had been riding for days , and Merlin absolutely hated riding. Not only had he not wanted to ride with Arthur, he had also been fully intent on doing nothing all day .

 

He would finally have some days off, yet it hadn't happened.

 

Sometimes Merlin hated plots against his rest.

 

“Shut up, Mer lin.” Arthur scolded him. “We'll go into the first inn, so your bottom doesn't get too tired from riding all day.”

 

“Sentences like that will kill you young,” Merlin muttered under his breath.

 

“What did you say, excuse me?” Arthur asked, shooting the servant a dry, withering look.

 

“I said it was a great idea,” Merlin replied.

 

“It's not even close in length to the sentence you said before!” Arthur groaned. “Can't you at least pretend to be afraid of me?”

 

“I'm a wizard, Arthur,” Merlin said quietly, “I'm not afraid of you.”

 

Merlin looked around, feeling something creeping over him.

 

“Why are we riding?” Merlin asked. “I thought your father wouldn't let you go anywhere for the work going on at the Castle.”

 

“I couldn't take it anymore.” Arthur groaned. “I couldn't even sleep. A hunting trip is what we need.”

 

“Not me, I was fine with the noises of the work too,” Merlin said grumpily.

 

Arthur patted him on the arm. “Don't worry, we're almost there.”

 

Merlin growled. “I despise you.”

 

****

 

The inn was just like any other inn outside of Camelot. It reminded Merlin a lot of the inns near Exactly, where Will would sometimes take him, just to escape the stuffy atmosphere of Ealdor.

 

“You’re not my servant, remember that,” Arthur said. “I don’t want trouble here.”

 

“Trouble will find us anyway.” Merlin shrugged. “You just have that face.”

 

“What face?” Arthur asked, glaring.

 

“The face of someone who deserves to be killed.” Merlin nodded seriously. “I mean, no one has offered me enough for being killed yet, considering a servant’s pay is higher. Yet. Things might change in the future.” Merlin nodded sagely. “I’d be careful.”

 

“Stop it, Mer lin.” Arthur groaned.

 

The barmaid arrived just then, smiling at the sight of them. “This is a nice sight: a couple together, enjoying some quality time together.”

 

“A couple?” Merlin asked, blinking. Ugh .

 

“Yes, we’re celebrating.” Arthur was quick to say. “Two beers, please.”

 

“First round on the house!” The bartender said, before turning and walking back to the counter.

 

Merlin, after a moment of silence, said, "Now I really want to kill myself."

 

"Merlin!"

Notes:

Merlin: I don't want to.
Arthur: You're my servant, you have to come with me.
Merlin: ... I'm fired.
Arthur: ...

***

Bartender: Nice couple.
Merlin: No, I have taste.
Arthur: Why?
Merlin: ... Because I don't settle.

***

Merlin: If people think we can be a couple, I really want to die.
Arthur: How is that bad?
Merlin: It'll ruin my reputation.

Series this work belongs to:

• Part 51 of Merlin Bingo 2024
• Part 5 of Merlin Bingo 2025