Valiant (Merlin)

Chapter 7

Back in Camelot, the whole castle was tense. Gaius was in his house that evening, patching up Arthur's broken leg. Uther instructed him to heal Arthur, and as soon has that was finished, he would question him about Merlin. However, Gaius wasn't worried about himself. His thoughts were on Merlin, if he was okay, if he was harmed, if he had been caught by the guards. He hadn't been told any news. Gaius hadn't known Merlin for very long but had become affectionate of the boy.

Arthur was silent as he sat on the bench in the room as he was being bandaged up. He had forgotten about the pain in his leg. His mind was buzzing, confused, angry. He was furious with Merlin for keeping this secret, for befriending him and for coming into Camelot in general. However, he had to admit to himself that if it weren't for Merlin's magic, Valiant would most certainly have killed him. All he wanted was answers, but it seemed Merlin had vanished into thin air.

"Your leg is ready, sire. You will need these," holding up a pair of wooden crutches, "and I will take off the bandages in a few weeks." Arthur didn't take the crutches, and just said, "Did you know Merlin had magic?"

"No, sire. I did not," Gaius lied.

"Then why did you tell him to run?"

"Because it doesn't matter if he has magic or not, he is still Merlin. I wanted him to be safe. Don't be angry with him, Arthur. He only did it to save your life. Remember that," Gaius said with slight anger in his voice. Arthur didn't know what to say to that. He knew what Gaius said was the truth, but he couldn't quite bring himself to admit it. 

"I'd suggest going to see my father. He has questions for you," Arthur replied, taking the crutches, and hopping towards the door. Gaius following. Just as Arthur was about to step outside, he quickly said, "thank you, Gaius." He didn't say whether it was for the talk or for healing the leg, but Gaius nodded his head in appreciation.